Two Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for the immediate reinstatement of Professor Stephen Kiama as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi (UoN). This demand comes in the wake of a contentious decision by the university council, which terminated Kiama’s services on September 27, 2024, just a few months shy of the conclusion of his five-year tenure. The MPs, John Kagucia of Mukurweini and Geoffrey Wandeto of Tetu, have raised numerous questions about the legality and implications of this abrupt dismissal.
Background on Stephen Kiama’s Tenure
Professor Stephen Kiama was appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi on January 6, 2020, for a term of five years. Under the University Act of 2012, a Vice Chancellor serves a maximum of five years, with the possibility of a second term. Kiama had recently submitted a formal request to the university council for the renewal of his tenure, suggesting that he intended to continue leading the institution beyond January 2025. However, the council’s decision to terminate his contract has raised eyebrows and sparked allegations of a “witch-hunt.”
The Council’s Decision and Lack of Transparency
The council, chaired by Professor Amukowa Anangwe, has not disclosed the reasons behind Kiama’s termination. In their press briefing, MPs Kagucia and Wandeto emphasized the need for transparency, questioning the motives behind the decision. They argue that the manner in which the termination was executed undermines the principles of justice and fairness enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution and the Employment Act.
“This is not only illegal but a mockery of the Employment Act, Kenya’s constitution, and the fair administration of justice,” the MPs stated. Their assertion reflects a growing concern over the governance and management of higher education institutions in Kenya, particularly regarding adherence to established laws and regulations.
Allegations of Political Interference
The MPs have expressed their belief that Kiama’s dismissal may be tied to a broader agenda involving control over university assets, especially land. They questioned whether there are hidden motives driving the university council’s decision, particularly in relation to ongoing discussions about long-term leases for prime university land. “What’s the agenda with university assets?” they asked, highlighting the importance of accountability and integrity in managing public institutions.
The notion of a politically motivated dismissal has been echoed by various stakeholders in the education sector. Observers have noted that the timing of Kiama’s termination—just four months before his expected renewal—raises suspicions about the motivations of the council.
Legal Implications and Parliamentary Inquiry
In response to the council’s decision, the MPs have called for the intervention of the Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Beatrice Iyangala. They seek clarity on the legal grounds for Kiama’s termination and whether the process adhered to the standards required for such a significant decision.
“Why conduct a sham process that cannot meet the threshold for a proper disciplinary process?” the MPs queried, reflecting widespread frustration with the council’s approach. They also highlighted the inconsistency in terminating Kiama’s contract as Vice Chancellor while also moving to terminate him as a university professor, governed by a different set of contractual obligations.
Furthermore, the MPs noted that Kiama had consistently excelled in performance reviews conducted by previous university councils, underscoring their assertion that the current council’s decision appears arbitrary and unjustified. “Instead of carrying out the evaluation, they chose to sack him unfairly, claiming he was uncooperative,” they argued.
The Role of Higher Education in Kenya
The controversy surrounding Kiama’s dismissal is not just a matter of individual employment rights; it raises broader questions about the governance of higher education in Kenya. With the university system facing numerous challenges, including funding shortages, governance issues, and political interference, the handling of such dismissals can set significant precedents.
The role of university leadership is critical in steering institutions toward achieving their educational and research mandates. Therefore, any actions perceived as undermining the leadership of universities can have far-reaching implications for the quality of education and research outputs in the country.
Public Reaction and Future Implications
The public reaction to the dismissal has been mixed, with some expressing support for Kiama and others raising concerns about the leadership of universities in Kenya. The call for his reinstatement by MPs Kagucia and Wandeto has garnered attention, prompting discussions on social media and among educational stakeholders.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the university council and the Ministry of Education will respond to these demands. There is a growing consensus that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kiama’s dismissal is necessary to restore confidence in the governance of higher education institutions.
Conclusion
The demand for Professor Stephen Kiama’s reinstatement as Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi underscores significant concerns regarding governance, transparency, and accountability within Kenyan higher education. The MPs’ challenge to the council’s decision highlights the importance of adhering to legal and ethical standards in managing public institutions.
As this issue continues to develop, it serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggles within the education sector in Kenya and the need for a collaborative effort to ensure that the management of universities is free from political interference and aligned with the principles of justice and fairness. The fate of Kiama’s position may ultimately set a precedent for how higher education leadership is treated in the future, impacting not only the University of Nairobi but the entire educational landscape in Kenya.
