Embattled Maasai Mara University Vice Chancellor Professor Mary Walingo has been granted temporary pardon after the Public Service Commission (PSC) ordered her reinstatement.
Professor Walingo was sent on leave in 2019 after she was caught up in an alleged Ksh.177 million corruption scandal.
The scandal was dubbed the ‘Mara Heist’ in a Citizen TV exposé.
Moreover, Walingo was charged alongside four other officials from Maasai Mara University for irregularly withdrawing money in crimes dating back to 2016.
As a result, the embattled VC was ordered to step aside as probe into the matter ensued.
Nevertheless, PSC CEO Simon Rotich through a statement issued on Wednesday, September 7 directed that Professor Walingo be reinstated back to her position, pending a hearing of the Anti-corruption case until her contract is terminated in compliance with the law.
Furthermore, the PSC CEO directed that Walingo be paid half of her salary and allowances from the date of her suspension.
“The appellant be reinstated back to her employment on suspension pending the hearing and determination of the Anti-Corruption Case and/or until her contract is lawfully terminated,” read part of the statement.
“The Appellant be paid half (1/2) salary and the attendant allowances pursuant to Section 62 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act if the same has not been paid from the date of the charge and/or suspension.” The statement further indicated.
Likewise, Walingo had submitted an appeal to the Public Service Commission in May 2022 against the university council’s decision to fire her.
One of the issues that the PSC considered were the power of the university’s council to fire her from office, and if it followed the law while dismissing her.
Also Read: PSC Advertise For Principal Secretaries Posts
Nevertheless, Walingo was succeeded by Prof Kitche Magak who was later replaced by Joseph Chacha in January 2022.