UoN Council sacks Prof. Kiama after months of differing

UoN Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama. [Fiie, Standard]

The University of Nairobi Council has sacked Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama.

The decision to relieve Prof. Kiama of his duties was announced by Council Chairman Amukowa Anangwe after months of disagreements.

In a communique dated October 14, Prof. Anangwe says the termination of service has been effective since September 27.

“The Council wishes to inform the University community that Prof. Stephen Gitahi Kiama's services as an employee of the University of Nairobi were terminated effective 27th September 2024. Reasons for his termination were promptly communicated to him,” the council chair’s letter reads.

In April 19, 2024, Prof. Anangwe issued a directive to send Prof. Kiama on compulsory leave over alleged mismanagement of the university’s resources and intimidation of staff.

However, the embattled VC dismissed the directive and urged students and staff to ignore the directive and proceed with their daily routine.

Barely a month later, Prof. Stephen Kiama was sent on another compulsory leave, and Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau was appointed to hold the office on interim.

"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 unauthorised persons, despite its earlier pronouncement on the matter," Prof Anangwe stated at the time.