Fresh twist in UoN Vice-Chancellor row as Prof. Kiama announces new appointments

The leadership row at the University of Nairobi (UoN) has taken a fresh twist after Prof. Stephen Kiama Gitahi, whose appointment as Vice Chancellor had been revoked by Education Cabinet Secretary Prof. George Magoha, announced new appointments at the institution.

In a notice dated January 21, 2020, Prof. Kiama says Prof. Madara Ogot, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research), has been appointed acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance) after Prof.  Isaac Meroka Mbeche who held the position proceeded on annual leave.

The statement claims that it is Prof. Mbeche who requested to proceed on annual leave effective January 6, 2020.

“Following the request by Prof. Isaac Meroka Mbeche, the Deputy Vice Chancellow (FPD), to proceed on annual leave with effect from January 6, 2020 and the same having been granted, Prof. Madara Ogot, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (RIE) was appointed  to act in this position for the period Prof. Mbeche will be on leave,” reads the notice in part.

CS Magoha had picked Prof. Mbeche as the acting Vice Chancellor after revoking Prof. Kiama’s appointment on claims that due process was not followed.

Prof. Kiama, however, moved to court on Monday where Employment and Labour Relations Court Judge Maureen Onyango suspended CS Magoha’s decision until the matter is heard on February 5.

The UoN council early this year announced Prof. Kiama as the institution’s new Vice Chancellor for a five-year term.

CS Magoha however dissolved the Julia Ojiambo-led council and revoked the appointment of Prof. Kiama pending consultation, further appointing Prof. Mbeche in acting capacity.

“Prof. Kiama will continue dispensing his duties as Deputy Vice Chancellor Human Resource and Administration at the university,” said Magoha in a press release last Friday.

Meanwhile, Prof Kiama has also announced the appointment of Prof. Julius Alexander  Ogeng’o, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs) in an acting capacity “to allow for substantive filling of the position.”