The Council of the University of Nairobi has said that the decision made on the April 19, 2024, granting Professor Stephen Kiama Gitahi leave with immediate effect, remains in force.
In a statement on May 22, the council expressed concern over what they termed as continued harassment intimidation and misuse of staff and resources by unauthorized persons, despite its earlier pronouncement on Vice Chancellor’s leave issue.
“The council wishes to inform the university community and all the concerned persons that the decision made on the 19th of April 2024, granting Professor Stephen Kiama Gitahi leave with immediate effect, remains in force,” reads part of the UON Council’s statement.
“The Council of the University of Nairobi, as the employer, is deeply concerned about the continued harassment intimidation and misuse of staff and resources by unauthorized persons, despite its earlier pronouncement on the matter.”
UON Council noted that Professor Ayub Njoroge Gitau shall continue to serve as the acting Vice Chancellor, with the in order to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to the position.
This they noted was in light of recent legal developments, particularly the judgment delivered by the Employment and Labour Relations Court and the Court of Appeal which had issued stay orders on the implementation of University reforms.
“Professor Ayub Njoroge Gitau shall continue to serve as the Acting Vice Chancellor, with the full authority of the Council in order to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to the position,” noted the council.
Also Read: Confusion as UoN Vice Chancellor Refuses to Go on Compulsory Leave
UON Council Resolutions
Aside from having Professor Ayub acting as the Vice Chancellor the council also directed affected staff to immediately resume their previous stations and positions without any obstructions.
“All staff transfers and movements effected in response to the aforementioned court case and contrary to the Council resolutions/ directives are hereby reserved,” the statement read.
“Affected staff to immediately resume previous stations and positions without any obstructions.”
In addition, UON council chairman Amukowa Anangwe noted that fresh letters authorizing the performance of duties in twenty-four administrative positions have already been issued to respective university officers as per Council resolution on 19th April 2024.
He warned individuals who will be found acting against these directives that they would be held personally accountable and may face appropriate disciplinary action.
Also Read: Confusion as UoN Vice Chancellor Refuses to Go on Compulsory Leave
Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama Leave Troubles
Prof. Stephen Kiama’s woes started back on September 1, 2023, when he abruptly cut short his leave and resumed duties earlier than anticipated.
The unexpected saga unfolded after the UoN Council approved Prof. Kiama’s request for a six-month leave, starting from August 1, 2023.
Shortly after the VC was sent on compulsory leave back on 19th April 2024, Prof. Ayub Njoroge was appointed as the acting Vice Chancellor.
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