The leadership turmoil at the University of Nairobi (UoN) has escalated following a High Court ruling reinstating Professor Amukowa Anangwe as the Council Chair. The court issued temporary stay orders, halting the appointment of a replacement after Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba revoked Anangwe’s appointment last week.
Anangwe, who was appointed in May 2023 for a three-year term, challenged the revocation as unlawful, arguing that the Education CS lacks the legal authority to annul a Council member’s appointment. “Let Kenyans know that the revocation was an unlawful step by the Cabinet Secretary. Previous attempts by past CSs to do the same have been overturned by the courts,” Anangwe asserted in a statement.
The University Academic Staff Union (UASU) – UoN Chapter, which had been advocating for Anangwe’s removal, remains at the center of the crisis. On February 19, the union threatened industrial action if Anangwe was not removed, citing abuse of office and interference in the university’s management.
Union officials also opposed the 24-month transformational strategy developed under Chancellor Professor Patrick Verkooijen and endorsed by the Council. They claim the strategy was formulated without proper staff involvement and violates university statutes. The union further expressed fears that the strategy could be used to justify selling off university assets, including land.
During a press briefing, Dr. Richard Bosire, UoN Chapter Chairperson, accused both the Council and the Chancellor of mismanaging the institution. He pointed to the emergence of “three centers of power,” financial irregularities, administrative interference, and a toxic work environment as key issues. Bosire called for an immediate investigation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) into these matters.
As the crisis deepens, Anangwe has hit back, accusing UASU of being complicit in UoN’s financial troubles. He alleged that the union is being used to destabilize the institution. “It is both troubling and shameful that UASU portrays itself as a victim while playing an active role in the mismanagement and corruption that has plagued our university,” Anangwe remarked.
He further challenged UASU to address allegations of corruption involving its top officials, arguing that these illicit dealings are fueling the turmoil at UoN. “We believe these corrupt activities are being used to destabilize the Council,” he added.
With UoN facing mounting financial woes, including concerns over extravagant expenditures, the court ruling adds another layer to the already complex power struggle. The coming weeks will determine whether stability can be restored or if the university will descend further into crisis.
