Education CS Fires UoN Council Members

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has fired four members of the University of Nairobi Council.

In a gazette notice dated April 11, 2025, CS Ogamba revoked the appointments of Sally Toroitich, Ahmed Abdullahi, Parmain Ole Narikae, and Carren Kerubo with immediate effect.

The decision comes just days after Members of Parliament uncovered serious divisions between the university’s management and its council, which have been blamed for fueling a prolonged power struggle at the country’s top institution.

Appearing before the National Assembly Education Committee, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson described the relationship between the university’s leadership and the council as “toxic.” She admitted there had been tensions but emphasized her willingness to create a more supportive environment going forward.

“Where we have been has not been a good place, where management and council don’t seem to see eye to eye. So there is an opportunity for us to have a more conducive environment,” she told the Committee.

Lawmakers pressed Prof. Hutchinson to explain why the university had been marred by leadership wrangles. Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, an alumnus of the university, expressed disappointment over what he termed constant infighting and disregard for university statutes.

Education Committee Chairman Julius Melly criticized the council, accusing it of exceeding its legal mandate by taking over the day-to-day operations of the university—a role meant for the management.

“We have noted with concern that the council is engaging in illegalities not supported by law, including the daily running of the institution,” Melly said during an inspection visit to the university.

Prof. Hutchinson also told the committee that she would not be applying to become the next Vice Chancellor following the dismissal of Prof. Stephen Kiama in October 2024. She confirmed that the application process to fill the position is ongoing but did not share reasons for stepping aside.

The leadership crisis at the University of Nairobi began in 2023, when Prof. Kiama was controversially removed by the council, citing governance issues and a breakdown in relations