Prof Peter M.F. Mbithi (left) hands over to Prof Isaac Meroka Mbeche who took over in an acting capacity since July 1, 2020
Drama is unfolding at the University of Nairobi (UoN) after the newly appointed acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Isaac Meroka Mbeche sent an internal memo warning 'sacked' Prof Gitahi Kiama from purportedly exercising his powers as a UoN VC.
Prof Gitahi Kiama was appointed after the UoN council on January 5th 2020 declared him the winner in the selection process.
Yesterday, 12 days after that appointment, Education CS Prof. George Magoha revoked it and essentially reinstated Prof Mbeche who has been acting after taking 'retirement' of Prof Peter M.F. Mbithi on July 1st 2019.
The appointment of Prof Gitahi Kiama was seen as irregular; he was also being fronted by Deputy President William Ruto.
A mother memo, written the same day (18th January 2020) by Prof Madara Ogot stated that the installation ceremony for the new VC slated for 21st of this month has been cancelled. Full statement from Prof Isaac Mbeche below Internal Memo addressed to the Director of ICT, UoN
I have noted with concern that Prof. Stephen Kiama whose appointment was revoked by the Cabinet Secretary for Education has been allowed to send communication online purportedly from the office of the Vice-Chancellor.
Therefore, I am now directing that all communication from the Vice-Chancellor will come from the undersigned.
Please be guided accordingly and ensure full compliance. Signed Prof Isaac Meroka Mbeche, Acting Vice-Chancellor University of Nairobi As things stand, this issue will head to court. READ MORE: Why CS Magoha Revoked Appointment Of Prof. Stephen Gitahi As UoN VC Sacked UoN VC Prof Kiama Fights Back UoN Cancels Prof Kiama’s Installation Ceremony