Constitutional lawyer Levi Munyeri has threatened to move to the High Court to block the proposed Ksh2.59 trillion Dangote oil refinery project in Lamu unless the government conducts public participation with local residents before construction begins.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 8, Munyeri gave President William Ruto’s administration a one-week ultimatum, arguing that the Constitution requires public involvement before the implementation of major projects with significant social, economic and environmental impacts.
"Free advice to Ruto and his people. Pause, take a month and do public participation with the people of Lamu on the Dangote Oil Refinery. If you don't act accordingly within a week, I will petition the High Court to stop the planned construction," Munyeri said.
The lawyer argued that public participation should not only involve asking residents whether they support or oppose the project, but should also include educating communities on the refinery’s importance, expected benefits and possible impacts.
Munyeri maintained that public participation is a constitutional obligation and warned that government projects, even those intended to benefit citizens, could face legal challenges if due process is not followed.
The legal threat comes a day after Dangote Industries confirmed that Lamu had been selected as the location for its planned 700,000-barrel-per-day oil refinery, ending speculation that the investment could be relocated to neighbouring Tanzania.
The project has attracted political debate, with Siaya Governor James Orengo previously opposing reports that the refinery could be established outside Kenya.
Orengo argued that such a strategic investment should remain in the country to create employment opportunities for Kenyan youth. He also accused the government of overlooking the Coast region while considering alternative locations.
However, Dangote Industries later confirmed that Lamu would host the refinery, paving the way for the multi-billion-shilling investment.
Munyeri’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some social media users arguing that the project should proceed due to its expected economic benefits.
Some critics questioned why anyone would oppose a project expected to create jobs, boost industrialisation and contribute significantly to the economy over the coming years.
Others argued that Kenya should prioritise long-term development projects that can create opportunities for future generations regardless of political differences.
Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) Secretary General Stephen Mutoro also weighed in on the debate, appearing to support calls for public participation on the refinery’s location.
"Yes, you don't wake up and ask Aliko Dangote to decide if his refinery will be in Lamu," Mutoro stated.
The debate over the Dangote refinery continues as the government moves forward with plans for one of Kenya’s largest industrial investments, while questions remain over public involvement and community engagement before construction begins.