Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has delegated the resolution of the contentious Finland scholarship saga to the county's elders and bishops. The announcement was made on August 2 during a church service at ACK St Stephen’s Chepkoilel, attended by President William Ruto.
The governor emphasized that the move seeks to calm tensions both locally and nationally surrounding the issue, which has troubled the community for years.
Community-Led Resolution
By involving village elders and church leaders, Governor Bii aims to leverage their traditional role as mediators to foster dialogue and consensus among residents, particularly the youth, and other stakeholders. He stated, "We do not want to hear any issues surrounding that matter ever again in this county."
Background of the Saga
- The Finland scholarship case involved over 300 parents who paid fees under the Overseas Education Programme hoping to secure study placements for their children in Finland and Canada.
- Despite the payments, many families were left disappointed and stranded, sparking widespread unrest.
- Former Governor and current Senator Jackson Mandago was acquitted in July by Nakuru Law Courts in the Ksh1.1 billion case linked to the scholarships.
- Kalenjin elders and church leaders have already apologized to affected families and pledged to resolve the dispute within two months.
Ongoing Concerns
Despite these efforts, some parents and students remain dissatisfied, demanding immediate refunds and protesting at the Governor’s office in Eldoret. The issue has also caused political friction, with Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi criticizing Mandago for focusing on legal battles rather than organizing compensation for victims.
The new approach entrusting elders and bishops highlights the county’s reliance on traditional and religious leadership to mediate conflicts and promote social harmony.
