In the realm of Kenyan politics, there are those who play it safe and those who dare to stand out.
Jackson Kiplagat Mandago undoubtedly falls into the latter category.
With his unapologetic stance and knack for making headlines, Mandago has become a compelling figure in the political landscape, leaving an indelible mark on Uasin Gishu County and beyond.
The current Uasin Gishu senator is known for his famous utterance “Usiweke siasa kwa roho, weka kwa mapafu,” where he advised Kenyans to go easy on politics and maintain consciousness even in the height of political tensions.
Drawing parallels to the literary world, The Standard once compared Mandago to the iconic character Okonkwo from Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart.”
Just as Okonkwo’s actions repeatedly landed him in trouble, Mandago’s outspoken nature has stirred controversy, often for the wrong reasons.
Early Life and Political Career
The rungu-wielding politician was born on 5th May 1974 in Uasin Gishu, where he schooled.
After completing high school, Mandago proceeded to study Biochemistry at Kenyatta University and later pursued a Masters in procurement and strategic planning from the Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA).
His journey in politics began in earnest in 2012 when he transitioned from a career as a TSC employee to actively engaging in political spheres.
His campaign for the gubernatorial Uasin Gishu seat in 2013 displayed his unconventional approach, as he utilized a tractor as his main means of transport during campaigns.
His subsequent reelection in 2017 involved a spirited battle against billionaire businessman Zedekiah Kiprop, alias Buzeki. His win cemented his status as a formidable force in Kenyan politics.
His victory was contributed by a strategic alliance with the NASA opposition coalition, whose leaders Moses Wetangula, Kalonzo Musyoka, Isaac Ruto, and Musalia Mudavadi endorsed him with the phrase “Mandago Tibim” during campaigns.
In turn, Mandago endorsed an ODM candidate for Langas ward in Uasin Gishu.
During his time as Governor, Mandago was credited for completing over 200 projects, including bridges, ECD classrooms, water projects, improved roads, dairy projects, new hospitals, cooperative projects, markets, and county offices, among others.
In 2022, Mandago embarked on a new chapter of his political journey, securing the position of Senator for Uasin Gishu County.
His victory over former radio presenter Robert Kemei was resounding, underscoring his enduring popularity among the electorate.
As a member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and a self-declared defender of President William Ruto, Mandago’s influence remains steadfast.
Wife and Family
Jackson Mandago is married to Lucy Jerono Mandago, an alumnus of the Catholic University of East Africa. She holds a bachelor of arts and social sciences.
She has reportedly served in various corporations, including the Coffee Board of Kenya.
Lucy is a strong supporter of her husband’s political career. She has campaigned for him in elections and has been a vocal advocate for his policies.
In August 2022, she made headlines when she warned women who had been eyeing her husband during his tenure as governor of Uasin Gishu County.
She said that her husband was now hers and that she was ready to reclaim her “full custody” of him. Her remarks were met with laughter and applause from the crowd.
Finland Saga
His most recent controversy involved a fake scholarship scandal purportedly undertaken by the Uasin Gishu county government during his reign as governor.
In the scandal, students and parents from Uasin Gishu paid millions to the county and were supposed to be connected to study at various universities in Finland and Canada.
However, the money, over sh 200 million deposited to overseas accounts of the county government by more than 300 parents, could not be traced.
The current Uasin Gishu governor Jonathan Bii distanced himself from the scandal, passing on the blame to Mandago.
In a meeting with Uasin Gishu residents to discuss the issue, Mandago said that he started the Finland study program in good faith but regretted the turn of events.
The matter is currently under investigation by the EACC (Ethics and Anti-corruption Commission) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
Controversy
Naturally, Mandago has been involved in various corruption cases and scandals, including the latest Finland saga.
In 2014, he was sued by an ECDE teacher over alleged neglect of their 14-year-old child.
Caroline Jesang Maina, the aggrieved, claimed that Mandago had not fulfilled his earlier promise of providing for their child and providing a residence for them.
The affidavit alleged that Mandago stayed with Jesang from 1998 to 2002, begetting a son in 2001.
Mandago had promised to buy her a house in the prestigious Elgon View Estate, valued at sh 9 million. However, he did not keep the promise.
Death of Brother
In a sad turn of events, Mandago’s brother, John Kinyor, was found dead on 27th May 2019 in an incomplete building at Chepkanga market in Eldoret.
His body had an injury on the head, and the police initially suspected foul play.
However, a review of CCTV footage showed that Kinyor had slipped from stairs on the first floor and fell into an area where a lift was to be installed.
The police concluded that his death was accidental.
Kinyor was an employee of the Kenya Pipeline Company in Eldoret. He was 56 years old at the time of his death. He is survived by his wife, five children, and two siblings, including Jackson Mandago.
