Stabex boss drags Gachagua to court over explosive fuel import allegations
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been taken to court in a defamation suit stemming from alleged public remarks linking Stabex International Limited and other petroleum firms to controversial fuel import arrangements.
The case, filed at the High Court, was initiated by Stabex International chair Jackson Kiplimo alongside two affiliated companies. They accuse Gachagua of making false and damaging statements that undermined their reputation and business credibility.
According to court filings, the plaintiffs claim that Gachagua alleged that Stabex International and Gulf Energy were being used as intermediaries in a government-to-government (G2G) petroleum import framework linked to President William Ruto.
The remarks are said to have been made on April 5, 2026, during a public gathering at AIPCA Gakoe Church in Kiambu County.
The suit further alleges that Gachagua claimed the Head of State had financially benefited from the petroleum sector through the companies, citing profits exceeding Sh1.5 trillion since assuming office.
Additionally, Gachagua is accused of alleging that senior officials at Kenya Pipeline Company and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority were involved in parallel fuel importation arrangements conducted without the President’s knowledge.
The plaintiffs argue that the statements portrayed them as participants in unlawful activities, thereby damaging their reputation, operations, and commercial standing within the oil industry.
They maintain that Stabex International Limited is a legitimate oil marketing company operating across East Africa, with more than 200 fuel stations and multiple depots supplying regional markets.
Kiplimo has also dismissed claims that he or his company act as proxies for political figures, including the President.
Court documents indicate that the plaintiffs issued a demand letter to Gachagua on April 9, 2026, seeking a public apology and retraction. They contend that no response was received, prompting the filing of the suit.
