This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
The University of Nairobi's recent appointment of Prof Stephen Gitahi Kiama as Vice Chancellor has raised eyebrows, with two top candidates planning to challenge the decision in court.
According to sources, the Public Service Commission (PSC) conducted interviews for the position six months ago, with Prof Bernard Njoroge emerging as the top candidate, followed closely by Prof Madara Ogot and Prof Patricia Kameri Mbote.
However, despite not featuring among the top three, Prof Kiama was appointed by the University of Nairobi Council on Sunday, January 5, 2020, sparking allegations of irregularities.
Reports indicate that the appointment was made in a hurry, taking advantage of the absence of ODM leader Raila Odinga, who was in China at the time and had thrown his weight behind Prof Njoroge.
Prof Kiama's appointment is also seen as a move by Deputy President William Ruto to maintain control over the university's nearly Sh20 billion in capitation, income, and research funds.
It is alleged that Prof Kiama has enjoyed the support of Mathira MP Nderitu Gachagua, an ally of Ruto, and that the Deputy President had previously used then VC Prof Peter Mbithi to grant him juicy contracts.
