This archive report was first published on 8 October 2019.
On October 8, 2019, Kenyatta University was indefinitely closed following two days of student demonstrations.
The university's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul K. Wainaina, issued a memo stating that the Senate had reached the decision 'following disturbances by some students that have led to disruption of lectures and destruction of university property.'
Prof. Wainaina ordered all students to vacate the university premises immediately.
However, Kenyatta University Students Association (KUSA) leader Joshua Ayika advised students to disregard the memo and instead await his address.
On Monday, students engaged police in running battles and caused a heavy traffic snarl up on Thika Road as they staged a protest over welfare issues.
The students demanded the resignation of Prof. Wainaina over what they termed as 'historical injustices.'
They also lamented over the early deadline for fees payment, the administration forcefully directing students from Nyayo hostel to use a fly over within the institution, and the suspension of fellow students and student leaders on 'petty basis.'
The students further accused the school administration of charging Ksh.2500 for supplementary examinations and sacking casual workers without notice.
However, the administration accused Mr. Ayika of issuing a misleading circular without the concurrence of the rest of the Students Governing Council.
