The County Government of Uasin Gishu is exploring the use of Alternative Justice System (AJS) to settle the long-running dispute over the Overseas Education Programme, Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim announced on Monday, July 27, 2026.
In a statement, the governor said he has directed the County Legal Team to examine the possibility of resolving the matter through mediation, reconciliation and other community-based processes, rather than prolonged litigation.
The move comes three days after the Nakuru Law Courts delivered a ruling on the programme, acquitting Senator Jackson Mandago.
What Bii said after Mandago’s acquittal
Governor Bii said the county respects the court decision and the independence of the Judiciary, but noted that key questions affecting affected families remain unanswered.
“These are legitimate concerns that deserve transparent and satisfactory answers,” Bii stated.
“Guided by Article 159(2)(c) of the Constitution of Kenya, and by the County Governments Act, I am committed to pursuing every lawful avenue that promotes the public interest and helps affected families obtain justice and closure,” he added.
Under AJS, the governor said he has engaged respected elders, members of the clergy and the leadership of the County Assembly to support an “inclusive and expeditious mediation process aimed at achieving a fair, amicable and lasting resolution.”
The Overseas Education Programme has been a source of public concern for years after parents contributed funds to secure study opportunities for their children abroad, mainly in Finland.
In 2022, the County Assembly received a petition from affected parents whose children had been denied the opportunity, and directed the then Deputy Governor to chair an ad hoc committee to inquire into the matter. That committee recommended further investigation by relevant government agencies.
How Bii wants Finland programme saga resolved
In his statement, Governor Bii clarified that the programme was not a County Government initiative and that parents’ contributions were not deposited into any county account.
However, he acknowledged the county’s “moral and leadership responsibility” to support efforts toward a lawful resolution given the financial losses suffered by families.
He listed three unresolved issues he wants addressed through the proposed mediation: what becomes of the children whose parents lost money; what responsibility rests with those who received or managed the funds; and whether any refunds have been made, and if so to whom and through which accounts.
“To the affected parents and students, I assure you that the County Government will continue to support all lawful efforts that promote accountability, transparency and justice,” Bii said.
“My appeal to all parties is to participate in this process in good faith so that we can bring this matter to a dignified and lasting conclusion.”
The governor did not give a timeline for the AJS process.
