UoN hits back at UASU, calls strike threat a ‘diversionary tactic’

The University of Nairobi has responded following a strike notice issued by the University Academic Staff Union (UASU).

The University Council, in a statement issued on Wednesday, slammed UASU officials over the strike threats, accusing the union of having ulterior motives for their quest.

The institution’s management claimed UASU’s demand that University Council Chair Amukowa Anangwe be removed, failure to which they would resort to industrial action, is merely intended to protect some corrupt members in the union and hinder the ongoing transformation of the institution.

It termed the planned strike a “diversionary tactic” aimed at paralysing the institution and derailing ongoing investigations involving some of union officials.

“It is concerning that in the face of these challenges, some disgruntled elements that have benefitted illegally from the current status quo are resisting the necessary reforms in order to perpetuate malpractice, corruption and abuse of office. We urge the university staff to refrain from perpetuating strikes to disrupt the university’s progress,” read the statement by Director of Corporate Affairs John Orindi.

“We strongly believe that the threats being issued belatedly are diversionary tactics intended to impede the transformation agenda of the University, and to protect certain individuals within the Union who are facing investigations for disciplinary actions related to allegations of financial impropriety.”

While terming the allegations levelled against Anangwe as baseless, the university outlined different roles of its organs including the Council, the Chancellor and Vice Chancellor, saying any decisions made by the institution underwent all the lawful channels.

“Contrary to the baseless allegations made, decisions and measures are made invariably at different levels as the law and procedures stipulate. As outlined in the Universities Act, Section 12, sub-sections 3(c) and 3(d), the Chancellor is entitled to advise the Council as needed for the betterment of the University and is entitled to certain powers and privileges as prescribed by the Charter,” Mr. Orindi stated.

“Section 18 elaborates on the responsibilities of the Council, particularly in subsection 8, which empowers the Council to determine recruitment, appointment, and promotion methods for all University staff—responsibilities that do not fall under the Vice Chancellor's purview.”

He added: “Additionally, Section 18(9) empowers the Chair of the Council, amongst others, to communicate Council resolutions for implementation. This does not amount to an infringement on the Vice Chancellor's mandate to be CEO and head of academic affairs.”

The university thus appealed to the union to allow the investigative agencies to conclude their probe and give its recommendations.

“We call upon UASU and other stakeholders to allow investigations to proceed without obstruction and to let the law take its cause, including the intervention by relevant investigative agencies of government,” Mr. Orindi said.

“We wish to clarify that the Chancellor serves in a pro bono capacity and does not receive any salary or benefits from the University. He is a full-time CEO, and his housing arrangements are independently provided for. His entitlement to security is aligned with that of the Vice Chancellor and other University officers.”

UASU members on Wednesday issued a 7-day ultimatum demanding the removal of Council Chair Anangwe over alleged interference and sabotage of the varsity’s operations.

Led by the Chairperson of the UoN chapter Dr Richard Bosire, UASU also asked Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba to send the Council packing immediately, arguing that it is hampering operations and stopping the acting Vice-Chancellor from actualising her responsibilities.

“We call upon CS Migos Ogamba to take quick action because we are not ready to watch and see the university die before our eyes,” warned Bosire.

According to Bosire, powerful government officials have hatched a plot to seize the university's land which hosts graduate apartments.

The land in question is nestled opposite the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and near Hotel Boulevard along James Gichuru Road.