Nairobi, August 16, 2023 - President William Ruto has broken his silence on the Uasin Gishu County scholarship scandal involving former governor and current Senator Jackson Mandago. The scandal revolves around the alleged mismanagement of over Ksh1 billion intended for funding students' education in Finland and Canada.

Addressing a rally on Wednesday, August 16, President Ruto condemned the embezzlement of funds meant for the education of young people, describing it as both shameful and detrimental to society. He assured residents, particularly parents who had entrusted their hard-earned money to the county, that the stolen funds would be recovered through thorough investigations conducted by anti-corruption agencies.

"It's embarrassing for anyone to steal money meant for the education of young people in Uasin Gishu," President Ruto declared, emphasizing that those responsible for the mismanagement would be held accountable.

Senator Mandago and three other former top officials have been ordered by the court to face charges related to the scandal. The scandal prompted parents to petition both the Senate and President Ruto, seeking assistance in recovering the funds they had contributed to the county government.

President Ruto reassured the parents that he was committed to ensuring justice prevails and the stolen money is returned to its rightful owners. He pledged to support thorough investigations and to hold the culprits accountable for their actions.

"I will not allow anyone to steal from our children. The money will be returned to the parents," President Ruto affirmed amidst cheers from the crowd.

The scholarship scandal has sparked outrage in Uasin Gishu County, where parents have expressed their struggles to make ends meet. The affected parents expressed gratitude for the President's concern and hoped for a swift resolution to the issue.

"We are grateful to the President for his concern. We hope that he will help us get our money back," one parent responded to President Ruto's assurances.

President Ruto's comments have fueled expectations that the investigation will be pursued vigorously, leading to justice for the affected parents and students while sending a strong message against corruption and misappropriation of public funds.