[Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago at a past event. Photo/Hivisasa.com]
Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago has defended a recent move in which he hosted a Sh10,000 per plate dinner to raise funds for his campaigns.
The dinner saw Sh28 million raised within the three-hour event.
Speaking to the press at the county headquarters, Mandago said he did not have sufficient funds for his campaigns hence had to seek for support from friends.
He further defended the businesspersons who gave their contributions saying they had a right to do so.
"I did not have money for my campaigns and business community said I had done a great job in Eldoret town hence decided to look for some funds to facilitate my campaigns," said Mandago.
"Some people were busy claiming that I didn't have funds but now that business community have contributed for me they are accusing them for being puppets. Those individuals who gave me funds have their right and anyone who feels offended can also organize his/her dinner," he added.
Mandago's bid for a second term in office is facing a stiff competition from billionaire businessperson Bundotich Zedekiah Kiprop popularly referred to as Buzeki.
The two will battle it out for the Jubilee ticket in April 21 nominations.