Court Orders Education CS Machogu to Respond in Alleged Tribalism Case
The Labour and Industrial Relations Court has ordered Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu to reply to a petition alleging that he hired a “relative” to hold a brief for Kaimosi Friends University (Kafu).
Despite receiving the petition, Justice Jemimah Keli of Kakamega expressed regret that the CS had not responded.
Justice Jemimah declared that an expedited hearing was necessary due to the urgent filing of the case. She directed Machogu, the first respondent, and the Kafu Council to prepare their responses for mention on April 24, during which she will provide additional directions.
Stephen Chahasi, an activist, has sued Machogu and the Kafu Council at Kakamega’s Labour Court in an attempt to stop what he considers an unfair appointment.
Chahasi claims that Prof. Peter Mwita’s nomination as acting Kafu Vice Chancellor violated labor regulations and that the selection process was influenced by tribal and political bias.
He claims that Machogu and Mwita are from the same region, implying tribal favoritism.
Chahasi stated in his pleadings that it is publicly known that Machogu and Mwita hail from the same geographical area, indicating a potential for tribal divisions, which he emphasized should be strongly discouraged and condemned.
The petitioner mentions Mwita’s performance in a recent interview for the VC job, in which he placed fifth out of eight candidates.
Chahasi criticizes the rationale for choosing Mwita over those who scored highest in the interview, terming the decision a disregard for natural justice.
He contends that the acting VC’s ongoing presence may intensify long-standing conflict within the university.
Allegations of disruptive behavior and poor administrative skills fuel Chahasi’s call for Mwita’s ouster.
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Chahasi cautions that allowing Mwita’s nomination to continue will set a dangerous precedent with far-reaching consequences. He emphasizes the importance of taking early action to restore stability for the benefit of students and staff.
Meanwhile, former acting Kafu VC Prof. Jack Nandi has challenged Machogu’s reluctance to appoint him as substantive VC despite previous permissions.
In the position interviews, Nandi emerged victorious.
As court disputes rage, the destiny of Kafu’s leadership hangs in the balance, with accusations of political intervention and administrative chaos.
Court Orders Education CS Machogu to Respond in Alleged Tribalism Case
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