NAIROBI, KENYA — A cloud of uncertainty has descended over the appointment of the Vice Chancellor at the University of Nairobi (UoN), following Prof. Elijah Bitange Ndemo’s decision to decline the position. Prof. Ndemo cited procedural irregularities in the selection process as the reason for his withdrawal.
Prof Amukowa Anangwe, the chairperson of the University Council, had previously confirmed Prof. Ndemo’s appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor, stating that he was slated to succeed the Acting VC, Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, upon the conclusion of her term.
In a communication dated May 5, 2025, the University Council designated Prof. Francis Jackim Mulaa to serve as Acting VC for a six-month interim period to facilitate a smooth transition.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Prof. Ndemo characterized the appointment process as unprocedural, leading to his withdrawal. “I wish to make it unequivocally clear that I dissociate myself from this unprocedural process. In light of these circumstances, I have formally withdrawn my candidacy for the position of Vice Chancellor at the University of Nairobi,” he declared.
The professor revealed that despite accepting the appointment letter from Prof. Anangwe, he had sought clarification regarding the legally mandated concurrence from the Cabinet Secretary for Education. Prof. Anangwe reportedly assured him that this concurrence had been sought and the relevant documentation submitted.
“On May 5, I received a letter from Hon. Prof Amukowa Anangwe, Chairman of the University Council, appointing me as Vice-Chancellor. I sought confirmation from the Chairman regarding the Minister for Education’s concurrence, as required by law. Prof Anangwe assured me that it was being addressed and that he had submitted the necessary documents an hour earlier,” Prof. Ndemo explained.
