By Robert Mutasi 
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim has accused former governor and current senator Jackson Mandago of running what he describes as a parallel administration within the county.
Bii made the allegations on Thursday, October 1, 2026, during the launch of the Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital 2026–2031 strategic plan, an event held alongside celebrations to mark World Contraception Day.
The governor claimed Mandago had been holding private meetings with senior county officials and enforcement officers who were appointed during his tenure as governor between 2013 and 2022.
According to Bii, some of the officials allegedly meet Mandago at his private residence at night and discuss issues affecting the county administration.
“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 accused the officials of frustrating his administration by allegedly targeting traders, boda boda operators and other businesses in Eldoret.
Bii claimed that some county enforcement officers had previously been involved in the destruction of traders’ goods and physical confrontations with business operators.
“They are plotting against us. But why? They are the ones disturbing boda boda operators and other businesses in the city,” the governor said.
Bii warned that county employees found to be involved in what he described as interference would face disciplinary action, including dismissal.
He said he would not allow officials employed by the county to work against his administration and suggested that Mandago could employ those he considers loyal to him using his own resources.
The accusations add another layer to the political tensions within Uasin Gishu, where Bii and Mandago have continued to occupy influential positions.
Mandago served as governor for two terms before being elected senator in the 2022 General Election, while Bii succeeded him as governor.
Bii’s remarks also come as Eldoret continues to undergo infrastructure and urban development projects. The city is preparing to host the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20, with Uasin Gishu co-hosting the national event alongside Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
Among the projects being undertaken is the construction of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium, alongside road and other urban improvement works.
Bii has previously defended his administration’s development record and implementation of its Nguzo Kumi agenda.
Mandago’s response to the latest allegations was not included in the remarks cited in the report. The claims by Bii therefore remain allegations unless independently established or addressed by the senator and the officials he referred to.