DPP approves fresh charges against Mandago, 7 others over Finland education saga

DPP Approves Fresh Charges Against Mandago and Seven Others Over Finland Education Saga
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has authorized fresh charges against Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and seven others related to the Sh50 million Finland education scandal, part of a larger Sh1.1 billion scholarship program initiated during Mandago’s tenure.
Background:
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) had been investigating the program, which funded Kenyan students to study in Finland and Canada.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) acknowledged gaps in their initial probe, including missing documents, unclear money trails, and incomplete student and fee records.
Evidence was missing on the number of students admitted, fees paid, visa processing, and the introduction of the Pathways studies program.
New Developments:
The DCI recommended EACC take over the case due to their possession of original documents and successful international investigations in Finland and Canada.
DPP Ingonga approved the new charges and directed that suspects be arrested and arraigned for plea-taking.
Additional suspects include:
Phylis Wanjiku Warigi (Former Gender Officer, Deputy Governor’s office)
Tony Kibet Tanui (Principal Education Officer, Youth Affairs and Sports)
Joel Rutto (Director, County Education Revolving Fund, Youth Affairs and Sports)
Skill Dove Limited and other entities linked to fraudulent fund acquisition
Allegations:
Suspects face charges of:
Conspiracy to commit an economic offence
Abuse of office
Breach of trust
Fraudulent acquisition of public property
Uttering false documents (Section 353 of the Penal Code)
Financial Details:
Sh284.4 million paid to universities in Finland and Canada
Sh315.9 million paid to foreign agencies
Sh50.7 million paid to local agencies
Sh308.9 million and Sh74.2 million withdrawn in cash
Court Proceedings:
Mandago and other suspects were first arraigned on August 17, 2023, and pleaded not guilty.
Hearing began July 1, 2024, with 26 witnesses testified and 12 witnesses bonded.
Joseph Kipkemboi Maritim remains at large.