Prof Isaac Mbeche has insisted that he is the one running the show at the University of Nairobi, rubbishing statement issued by Prof Stephen Kiama that he is away on leave.
Speaking to K24 Digital on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, Prof Mbeche said that Prof Kiama cannot purport to have approved his leave as he was called back by the Ministry of Education.
“I was called to act and I came back. Therefore, the leave is deemed to have been put aside,” said Prof Mbeche.
Prof Mbeche clarified that he had applied and proceeded on leave immediately after the University of Nairobi Council appointed Prof Kiama in a process the Education ministry claims was flawed.
“I’m still acting vice-chancellor. I have the letter of appointment. Prof Kiama is refusing to accept that the minister called me back from leave. Prof Kiama is trying to install himself through the court. He should listen to the University Senate, students and other stakeholders,” said Prof Mbeche.
Prof Mbeche accused Prof Kiama of acting “selfishly”, saying that he is operating from the periphery.
As of now, Prof Mbeche said he is the one occupying the VC’s physical office at the University of Nairobi.
On Monday, the Employment and Labour Court suspended an order issued by Education CS, Prof Magoha, revoking Prof Kiama’s appointment.
But Prof Mbeche said he will still honour the court order but as he awaits the Ministry of Education’s and AG case at the High Court.
Prof Magoha directed the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the controversial appointment of Prof Kiama.
In a report published by Citizen TV’s website, EACC chief executive, Twalib Mbarak, said the investigation has been commenced.
Mr Mbarak said EACC’s investigation would focus on whether due process was followed in the final stages of the selection exercise.
