Hundreds of parents and students affected by the KSh1.1 billion Finland and Canada scholarship fraud in Uasin Gishu County marched through Eldoret, demanding full refunds after the acquittal of Senator Jackson Mandago and two others.
The protest lasted three hours and disrupted traffic along Uganda Road before the demonstrators proceeded to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) North Rift offices. The protesters rejected a peace proposal brokered by Governor Jonathan Bii and local elders, insisting on a legally binding refund.
Acquittal Sparks Outrage
On July 23, Nakuru Principal Magistrate Alloyce Ndege acquitted Mandago and his co-accused, citing insufficient evidence despite numerous witnesses and submitted documents including bank slips and admission letters. The verdict has frustrated victims who feel justice was not served.
Victims Demand Accountability
- Many families sold land, livestock, or took high-interest loans to pay into the Uasin Gishu County Education Trust Fund.
- Brian Kimutai, a prospective Masters student, lamented the financial and emotional toll on his family.
- Others like Christopher Tarus and Shadrack Juma highlighted that the funds were deposited into county government accounts.
Shadrack Kiprop expressed disappointment with local elders who supported politicians rather than victims, questioning their absence during the initial scandal four years ago.
Next Steps
Addressing the crowd, EACC North Rift Regional Manager Tingisha Ole Kuntai advised the victims to appeal the court ruling at the High Court. However, the protesters remain unsatisfied and have vowed to continue weekly demonstrations until their money is refunded or a viable solution is offered.
One protester warned, "If they don't return our money, we will continue with the demonstrations, or they should give us an alternative solution."
