Bii Accuses Mandago of Running Parallel Administration in Uasin Gishu
“They are plotting against us. But why? They are the ones disturbing boda boda operators and other businesses in the city,” Bii said.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii. Photo: Uasin Gishu County.
By Robert Mutasi
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim has accused former governor Jackson Mandago of using county officials to undermine his administration, alleging that his predecessor is operating a parallel government from outside the county administration.
Bii made the allegations on Thursday, October 1, 2026, during the launch of the Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital 2026–2031 strategic plan in Eldoret. The event also marked World Contraception Day.
The governor claimed that Mandago, who served as Uasin Gishu governor between 2013 and 2022 before becoming senator, has been holding meetings with senior county officials and enforcement officers appointed during his tenure.
Bii alleged that some of the meetings take place at Mandago’s private residence, including at night.
“Mandago has gone wild. He is now running a parallel government. He has his people he employs, directors. He meets them at night, alongside county enforcement officers,” Bii said.
The governor further claimed that officials linked to the former administration were frustrating his efforts to reform enforcement operations in Eldoret and other parts of the county.
He accused the officers of targeting traders, boda boda operators and other business owners, alleging that some had previously been involved in destroying traders’ goods and physically confronting them.
“They are plotting against us. But why? They are the ones disturbing boda boda operators and other businesses in the city,” Bii said.
Bii warned county employees against engaging in activities that could undermine the elected county administration.
He said officials found to be participating in the alleged activities could be dismissed and told Mandago to employ them at his own expense.
The governor’s remarks come amid continuing political competition in Uasin Gishu, where Mandago remains an influential political figure after serving two terms as governor.
Bii succeeded Mandago following the 2022 elections and is seeking to consolidate his administration’s development agenda across the county.
The latest accusations also come as Eldoret prepares to host the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20. Uasin Gishu is co-hosting the national event with Nandi and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties.
Several infrastructure projects are being undertaken in Eldoret ahead of the celebrations, including works at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium and improvements to roads and other sections of the city.
Bii has maintained that his administration is focused on delivering its development programme under the Nguzo Kumi agenda.
Mandago had not publicly responded to the latest allegations at the time of the report. The governor’s claims about the alleged meetings and activities of county officials remain allegations and have not been independently established.
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