On Friday last week, close to 30,000 tonnes of maize were imported into the country in a move that was touted as the government's drastic measure to shield Kenyans from the high prices of Unga.
Nevertheless, just after the ship with the cargo docked at the port of Mombasa, a storm that is now threatening to flare out into another mega scandal emerged.
Initially, it was alleged that the maize was imported from Mexico but this later changed to South Africa.
As Kenyans seek to establish the truth, details have surfaced indicating that some of the companies and faces behind the maize imports have been implicated in maize scandals in the past.
Featuring prominently in the controversy is Holbud (UK) Limited that was implicated in the government maize scandals of 2002 and 2004 as well as in a Sh6 Billion fertiliser scam in 2013.
The company is run by four tycoons: David George Rowe, Mahmoud Gulamhusein Khaku, Hosnain Roshanali Merali and Shaukat Akberali Merali.
Some government officials have argued that Holbud was only the transporter of the maize.
Kitui Flour Mills, Pembe Flour Mills and Hydrey (P) Limited were named as the importers of the cargo. Interesting is the fact that all the companies said to have imported the maize are associated with two individuals - Roshan Merali and Salim Taib.
Kitui Millers is owned by Mombasa-based tycoon Salim Taib who is also associated with Pembe flour mills.
Hydrey (P) Limited and Holbud are sister companies that share directors and are controlled by Roshan Merali.
Another vessel, Interlink Priority, is expected to dock at the port of Mombasa with 37,050 tonnes on Wednesday next week to ease the shortage. It is not clear who will be responsible for the imports and which companies will benefit from the imports.
A section of politicians has accused the government of collaborating with powerful cartels to make supernormal profits.
This latest crisis has placed the government in a tight corner as some claim the shortage was artificial.
