UoN Council says it will 'continue to work together' with VC Kiama amid wrangles

The University of Nairobi (UoN) council now says it will continue working together with embattled Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Kiama amid an ongoing stalemate over his leadership.

The decision was communicated on Tuesday by council Chairman Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, following a meeting held on Monday.

“We wish to emphasize that the Council and the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Kiama will continue to work together in accordance with the law and the Charter,” stated Prof. Anangwe.

“Our aim is to ensure that the University of Nairobi remains a center of excellence in academics and research. Your unwavering commitment and support are crucial in achieving this goal.”

The resolution comes following a persistent back-and-forth between Prof. Kiama and the university council, after the don returned to the institution from terminal leave earlier than expected.

The council gave Prof. Kiama the green light to proceed on six-month leave from August 1 pending the expiry of his contract, only for him to return to the university a month later.

This caused confusion within the administration, with the council directing the VC to leave office and resume his leave.

“You are still deemed to be on the said leave and thus, you must not discharge the duties of the Vice Chancellor with effect from September 25, 2023 until your leave lapses,” the council said in a letter last week.