Kiama stays put after Magoha revokes appointment as UoN VC

Prof Stephen Gitahi Kiama is pictured at the University of Nairobi during the launch of its council's strategic plan for 2019-2024. PHOTO | JEFF ANGOTE | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Education CS George Magoha cancelled the appointment on Friday, dissolved the university's council and appointed Deputy VC Isaac Meroka Mbeche as acting VC.
  • However, in a statement to staff and students on Saturday, Prof Kiama noted that he was lawfully and validly appointed and will continue to discharge his duties.
  • Prof Madara Ogot, the acting DVC of finance, planning and development, sent another statement to staff, cancelling Tuesday's planned installation of Prof Kiama as VC.
  • Later on Saturday, Prof Mbeche issued an internal memo in which he said he regretted Prof Kiama's remarks.

Prof Stephen Kiama, whose appointment as the University of Nairobi's Vice-Chancellor was revoked on Friday, says he is still in charge.

Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha cancelled the appointment on Friday, dissolved the university's council and appointed Deputy VC (finance, planning and development) Isaac Meroka Mbeche as acting VC.

The CS said Prof Kiama would carry on as deputy VC, human resource and administration, pending appointment of a substantive person to succeed Prof Peter Mbithi.

However, in a statement to staff and students on Saturday, Prof Kiama said "for the avoidance of doubt, my appointment still subsists".

"DISTURBING NEWS"

The professor noted that he was lawfully and validly appointed and will continue to discharge his duties.

He thanked the university fraternity for keeping calm in the face of "disturbing news circulating in the media".

“In the face of these developments, I urge you to continue to remain calm and maintain the peace and order that has subsisted since my appointment," he said.

"Do not be given to acts of lawlessness as the peace and stability of the university are important to us all. As such, I continue in diligent service as your vice-chancellor and remain available to you all for guidance and direction.”

Prof Kiama also urged staff to continue working and pursue excellence in line with the institution's vision.

OTHER REACTIONS

However, Prof Madara Ogot, the acting DVC of finance, planning and development, sent another statement to staff, cancelling Tuesday's planned installation of Prof Kiama as VC.

Later on Saturday, Prof Mbeche issued an internal memo in which he said he regretted Prof 's Kiama's remarks.

In the statement signed by him, he noted that official communication is only from the office of the VC.

"I am now directing that all communication from the vice-chancellor will come from the undersigned," he said.

"Please be guided accordingly and ensure full compliance."