Uasin Gishu Senator on the spot over University of Eldoret student riots

ELDORET: Governor Jackson Mandago has urged institutions of higher learning to address administrative challenges amicably to avoid future demonstrations.

Speaking in reference to recent demonstrations that rocked University of Eldoret (UoE) over claims of nepotism and tribalism, Mr Mandago asked university administrators and students to opt for dialogue on matters likely to destroy their image.

“If they are unable to resolve their differences, it is best for institutions of higher learning to seek help from outside authorities like the Ministry of Education and the Commission of University Education,” said the governor.

He asked residents who live near colleges to respect education institutions and stop politicising every issue in their locality.

“As a county, we are also affected when allegations of nepotism and tribalism come out of our institutions. To safeguard the face of institutions around us, there is no need to involve the locals,” he explained in reference to Uasin Gishu Senator Isaac Melly’s move to lead demonstrations against the top management of UoE.

Similar sentiments were echoed by a section of Uasin Gishu Orange Democratic Movement officials who took issue with the senator’s move.

The party’s chairperson Kipkorir Menjo said Melly ought to have followed a clear procedure in handling the matter, instead of inciting the students and  locals.

DIALOGUE CALLS

“We are not saying that the management is perfect and neither are we saying the senator was wrong in raising such issues, but the manner in which he conducted himself was unlawful,” Menjo said.

Tom Murgor, another ODM official wondered why the senator took the matter on his own and failed to involve other elected leaders from the region.

“It is improper for him to use the locals in demonstrations against alleged skewed employment opportunities at the institution,” he said.

Seventeen legislators from Rift Valley on Wednesday called for dialogue on the issue.