Kenyatta University Council appoints acting Vice-Chancellor despite court orders

Ousted Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wainaina, has been dealt a blow after the university council issued a notice determining Professor Waceke Wanjohi as the acting Vice-Chancellor.

The Council's Chairperson Prof. Crispus Kiamba, on August 5, determined Prof. Waceke as the Acting Vice-Chancellor until a permanent one is posted to the university and he advised students and staff to support the new VC.

“The attention of the university community is drawn to a decision by the Hon. Justice Gakeri of the Employment and Labour Court in Nairobi on 4th August 2022 where the court dismissed an application by Prof. Paul Wainaina for injunctive orders.

"Arising from the above developments, Council has resolved that Prof Waceke Wanjohi continues as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University until further notice," he stated.

READ: Uhuru-Wainaina saga leads to lawsuit

Court reinstates sacked Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof Paul Wainaina Pulse Live Kenya

The university’s decision comes after a court reinstated Prof. Wainaina pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The court through Justice Jacob Gakeri in his judgement ordered the institution to reinstate the embattled Professor and that all parties involved in the matter should appear before any judge on July 28 for a hearing.

“Pending the hearing and determination of this application inter-parties, this honourable court is pleased to issue a temporary order suspending the implementation of the decision contained in the letter dated July 12 by Professor Crispus Kiamba in toto suspending, terminating and/or dismissing the petitioner from the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, rendering his position vacant and/or revoking his salary,” ruled Justice Gakeri.

Prof. Wainaina had moved to court in an attempt to prevent his dismissal from the institution after the Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua earlier this month demanded for the sacking of the former following a squabble between him and the government.

READ: Ex-University of Nairobi VC Prof Kiamba to chair new Kenyatta University council

Court reinstates sacked Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof Paul Wainaina Pulse Live Kenya

Kenyatta University declines to hand over title deeds

The Professor, together with the university's council. had declined to hand over title deeds to allow for the construction of the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention facilities on part of the University land.

“The Head of Public Service continues to act in a manner that completely flouts the provisions of law on the rights of the applicant and continues to breach his rights to fair labour practices,” stated lawyer Manwa Hosea, representing the Professor.