The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called for speedy investigations into the Finland education programme that led to the loss of over Ksh1 billion for parents and students.

In a statement, ODM castigated Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago who orchestrated the programme when he was the governor.

“In a shocking revelation that has sent horror shockwaves throughout the nation, former Governor of Uasin Gishu County, now Senator, Jackson Mandago stands accused of perpetrating an elaborate student airlift scam, duping indigent parents of Ksh1.1 billion under the pretence of securing scholarships for their children in Finland and Canada,” the statement read in part.

“The scandal has raised questions about the integrity and accountability of public officials, particularly those entrusted with leadership positions. The ODM Party unreservedly condemns the actions of the former Governor and underscores the belief that this incident is not an isolated occurrence but rather a reflection of a broader trend within the William Ruto-led Kenya Kwanza political circle.”

According to the opposition party, the Uasin Gishu student airlift scandal is a grave violation of public trust by Kenya Kwanza leaders.

“As the nation grapples with the repercussions of this scandal, ODM calls upon the relevant criminal justice agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and bring justice to the victims. It is imperative that the perpetrators of this deceitful scheme, including former Governor Jackson Mandago, be held accountable for their actions,” ODM said.

Mandago was arrested and charged in court with conspiring to steal Ksh1.1 billion from an account at KCB Eldoret registered under Uasin Gichu education trust Fund meat for overseas university fees for the aggrieved students.

He was charged alongside Joseph Kipkemoi Maritim, Meshak Rono and Joshua Kipkemoi Lelei.

Mandago is further accused of abusing his office when he was governor by misrepresenting that the County Government of Uasin Gichu was offering full scholarships for overseas education.

He is further accused of abuse of office by arbitrarily seconding Uasin Gichu County staff to a private entity namely Uasin Gichu Overseas Education Trust (UGOET), thereby drawing salary from the county government an act that was prejudicial to residents of the County.