State told to keep off UoN vice chancellor selection exercise

The University of Nairobi staff have threatened to strike over what Kenya Universities Staff Union (Kusu) has termed State interference in the ongoing recruitment of a vice chancellor at the institution.

The union wants the Government to keep off the exercise to avoid an industrial action.

"Respect the rule of law; allow the current recruitment process to proceed pursuant to the provisions of the law hence save the institution from unnecessary litigations thereafter. Save us as a university the ignominy of being associated with an improperly appointed vice chancellor," said Charles Mukhwaya, Kusu secretary general.

He added: "Failure to do so, we aver that the union will not be held responsible in the event of any industrial unrest."

The union claims the Education ministry has ignored recommendations by the University Council and instead gone ahead to make its own recommendations before the appointment.

"This is bluntant and gross violation of the law. Besides, it goes against the long-held philosophy that University of Nairobi is an equal opportunity employer and that it believes in fair play," said Mukhwaya.

The alleged interference, they said, could cost the institution the achievements it has attained and enjoyed in the recent past including high staff productivity, high performance, tremendous growth, and unparalleled academic excellence.

Mukhwaya pointed out that there is untold fear and anxiety among staff at the moment that an unqualified candidate is likely to be appointed.

"It is our considered opinion as a union that such a corrupt appointment will lead to unnecessary staff tension," he said.