Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim has publicly accused his predecessor, Senator Jackson Mandago, of running a parallel government within the county. Bii made the allegations during the launch of the Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital 2026-2031 strategic plan, which coincided with World Contraception Day. Mandago served as Uasin Gishu governor from 2013 to 2022 before being elected senator. Bii claims Mandago is using retained employees to undermine his government.
According to Bii, Mandago has been convening covert meetings with senior directors and county enforcement officers at his private residence. These meetings allegedly take place at night and involve officials appointed by Mandago during his tenure as governor. Bii stated that he has not provoked anyone in the county and expressed frustration with Mandago's actions. The governor's allegations suggest a deliberate effort to resist his administration's attempts to reform county enforcement operations.
Governor Bii alleged that Mandago's loyalists within the county government have been exploiting traders, destroying wares, and harassing boda boda operators. He claimed that these activities have been ongoing and predate his administration. Bii warned that unless the alleged interference ceases, he would dismiss the implicated county employees and hand them over to Mandago to employ at his own expense. The situation has raised concerns about the impact on small-scale traders and businesses in the county.
The allegations come as Eldoret city undergoes significant infrastructural improvements, including the laying of cabros and the construction of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium. Uasin Gishu County is set to co-host the national Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20, alongside Elgeyo Marakwet and Nandi counties. The event is expected to draw attention to the county's development initiatives and infrastructure projects.
Governor Bii framed the situation as a deliberate effort by elements loyal to Mandago to resist his administration's attempts to reform county enforcement operations and protect small-scale traders. He emphasized that Mandago is no longer the governor and should not interfere with the current administration. Bii's remarks suggest a determination to assert his authority and ensure a smooth operation of county government.
The search for a resolution to the situation remains ongoing. Mandago's office has not publicly responded to Bii's allegations. The county government has not provided further details on the implicated officials or the actions they will take to address the issue. The situation has sparked interest among residents and stakeholders, who are monitoring developments in the county.
The Uasin Gishu County administration is working to address the concerns raised by Governor Bii. The governor's administration aims to improve the business environment and protect small-scale traders from exploitation. The Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital strategic plan launch and World Contraception Day commemoration highlight the county's focus on healthcare and development initiatives.
Key points
- Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim accuses predecessor Jackson Mandago of running a parallel government within Uasin Gishu County.
- Mandago allegedly convenes covert meetings with senior directors and county enforcement officers at his private residence.
- Governor Bii threatens to dismiss implicated officials if the alleged interference does not stop.
