Prof. Laban Ayiro takes over as acting Moi University Vice Chancellor

Governors Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu), Alex Tolgos (Elgeyo Marakwet), MPs James Bett (Kesses), Silas Tiren (Moiben), Oscar Sudi (Kapseret) and County Assembly Speaker Isaac Terer at the Moi University main campus on Tuesday 20th September,2016 to stop newly appointed acting VC Prof. Laban Ayiro from taking over. [PHOTO: KEVIN TUNOI/Standard]

Prof. Laban Ayiro has officially taken over the leadership of Moi University as Vice Chancellor in acting capacity for a period of three months.

Ayiro replaces former Vice Chancellor Prof. Richard Mibey whose two terms at the university ended a few days ago.

Education Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiangi has defended appointment of acting Moi University Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban Ayiro, saying he followed the law in the whole process.

A section of North Rift leaders Tuesday stormed Moi University main campus premises in Kesses, Eldoret to protest against the appointment of Prof. Laban Ayiro as the institution's acting Vice Chancellor.

Led by Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago his Elgeyo Marakwet counterpart Alex Tolgos, MPs Oscar Sudi (Kapseret), Silas Tiren (Moiben), James Bett (Kesses) and Isaac Terer Uasin Gishu County Assembly Speaker, the leaders vowed to stop the University's 32nd graduation ceremony slated for Thursday and Friday.

The leaders want Education CS Fred Matiang’i to immediately appoint a substantive VC for Moi University, based on merit, arguing that it is wrong to appoint an acting VC when the university council concluded the process of recruiting a new VC and forwarded to him names of three individuals.

They also argue that an "outsider" has been appointed to the helm of the Eldoret-based university. The leaders alleged that the Education CS and a powerful quarter is pushing for the appointment of their preferred candidate stating that Prof. Isaac Kosgey, one of those interviewed for the position emerged top and should be appointed permanently.