University of Nairobi Experience Leadership Wrangles Upon Return of Kiama
A crisis is unfolding at the University of Nairobi as two senior staff members are both claiming to be the legitimate Vice-Chancellor. Professor Stephen Kiama, who had received approval for a six-month leave from the university council, returned to his position after only three weeks of sabbatical. During his absence, the council had appointed Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Julius Ogeng’o, as the acting VC.
Crucially, the council’s decision to grant Prof. Kiama’s leave has not been revoked, nor has the appointment of Prof. Ogeng’o as acting VC been rescinded. This situation has led to both Prof. Ogeng’o and Prof. Kiama asserting their right to occupy the VC’s office.
Prof. Kiama argues that he doesn’t need council permission to resume work, citing his five-year contract as the basis for his return. He did, however, inform the council of his comeback. According to the Universities Act and the University of Nairobi charter, council approval was required for Prof. Kiama to resume his duties.
Also Read:Â UoN VC Prof Kiama Reports Back before Sabbatical leave Ends
A council meeting scheduled for Saturday was abruptly canceled, and the reasons for this cancellation remain unclear. It’s worth noting that the letter calling for the meeting did not invite Prof. Kiama.
There are indications that the disputes at the university might have political implications, potentially leading to the cancellation of the council meeting.
Questions have arisen regarding the content of Prof. Kiama’s leave request letter, as it did not reference his remaining leave days. In his initial letter dated July 28, 2023, he requested annual leave from August 1, 2023, to utilize his accumulated leave days before the end of his contract.
However, in a subsequent letter dated August 31 to the Council, Prof. Kiama stated that the issues that led to his leave request, including personal health matters, had been resolved, allowing him to return to his duties as Vice Chancellor effectively from September 1, 2023. This letter was copied to various prominent figures.
University of Nairobi Experience Leadership Wrangles Upon Return of Kiama
