Infighting at University of Nairobi over next VC spills over

A petition has been filed to stop the recruitment of the next University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor.

According to the petitioner George Baraza, the process should be conducted by the university council and not the Public Service Commission.

Also Read: University of Nairobi council sends Prof. Mbithi on leave, appoints acting VC

“The decision of the council through a letter was wrong interpretation of the law as it relates to process of reappointment of a vice chancellor,” court papers read.

He further wants the court to quash a letter addressed to the incumbent Prof. Peter Mbithi that denied his request for renewal of tenure.

Prof Mbithi was sent on compulsory leave starting July 6 and Prof. Mbeche appointed in acting capacity.

“The Council wishes to take this opportunity to reassure the University of Nairobi community and all Stakeholders that it is in charge and there is no cause for alarm,” the letter signed by Prof. Julia Ojiambo, the council Chairperson said.

The petitioner is challenging the university council’s decision to direct the PSC to conduct the recruitment process for the next VC and has termed the move as unconstitutional.

Section 39 (1) of the University Act indicates that the recruitment process shall be conducted by the council, he said.

According to the petitioner, Parliament amended the section 35 of the Universities Act 2012 on January 18 this year.

The said amendment gave the university council the power to appoint in consultation with the Education CS after a competitive process conducted by Public Service Commission.