This archive report was first published on 9 December 2019.
December 9, 2019, marked a turning point for Maseno University, as students and staff began to speak out against Vice Chancellor Julius Nyabundi's leadership. The university, located along Busia road near the Equator crossing line, had long been known for its academic excellence and strong reputation.
However, allegations of corruption, social misconduct, immorality, and sex-for-grade scandals have cast a shadow over the institution. Students claim that lecturers are involved in these scandals, and that some have even been trading sex for exam results.
One student, who wished to remain anonymous, shared a harrowing experience of being raped and beaten by unknown gangs. The student claimed that the gangs had broken into their halls of residence, ordering everyone to lie flat on the ground before raping and beating them.
Despite these allegations, lecturers have rubbished the claims, saying they are a 'stage-managed move' to avoid the installation of CCTV cameras on campus. The cameras were intended to prevent further criminal activities and cheating during exams.
However, students have threatened to seek a court order to stop the graduation ceremony, citing cases of students being shortchanged on graduation day. One such case involves Cynthia Achieng Olonde, whose name was missing from the list of graduates, and whose admission number was given to a ghost student.
Prof. Nyabundi's return to Maseno University has been met with resistance, particularly given his past at Chemelil Sugar Company, where he was removed following claims of corruption. Many are questioning whether he will bring about the changes needed to transform and reform the institution.
