Moi University VC Summoned Over Alleged Misappropriation of Ksh.2.2B.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Moi University Vice-Chancellor Isaac Kosgei over alleged involvement in fraudulent infrastructural projects amounting to Ksh.2,189,659,497.
This inquiry forms part of an extensive investigation into claims of corruption and misappropriation of public funds at the institution.
Prof. Kosgei has been directed to appear at the EACC North Rift regional offices in Eldoret on Wednesday, November 20, at 9 a.m. for an interview and to record a statement.
He will be accompanied by three other senior officials: Chief Accountant Egla Samoei, Head of Procurement Wilson Bett, and Head of the Development Unit Moses Kipkulei.
Accusations Against the VC
The Vice-Chancellor faces allegations of overseeing a corruption-prone environment at the university.
Additionally, he has been accused of attempting to obstruct ongoing investigations. Reports suggest he failed to provide essential documents requested by the EACC despite multiple reminders.
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According to the EACC spokesperson, Eric Ngumbi, the VC has been instructed to present several original documents during the session.
These include the minutes of 18 special meetings, which are expected to aid the investigations.
Mounting Financial Woes and Strikes
Persistent strikes have marred Moi University’s operations, including the most recent one on August 26, 2024. At the heart of the unrest is an unresolved Ksh. 8.6 billion debt owed to lecturers since 2016. This sum includes:
| Debt Breakdown | Amount (Ksh.) |
|---|---|
| Unremitted pensions | 4.2 billion |
| Unremitted bank loans | 1.2 billion |
| Salary arrears | 1.2 billion |
| Union fees | 85 million |
| Benevolent funds | 70 million |
| Gratuity fees | 50 million |
| Life insurance premiums | 90 million |
| Unpaid insurance premiums and others | 1.6 billion |
Lecturers have not received October 2024 salaries, and increments from the 2017-2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) remain unimplemented.
The financial strain has left lecturers in dire conditions. They struggle to meet basic needs, with some defaulting on loans and facing penalties.
Banks are hesitant to grant loans to university employees, exacerbating their plight. Academic staff report distress, demotivation, and difficulties sustaining their families.
Efforts to reach the government have yielded no results. Messages sent to President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and other officials have been ignored. Lecturers lament the lack of intervention despite several national leaders being Moi University alumni.
The ongoing strike has disrupted students’ academic progress. Extended periods of inactivity have increased accommodation costs, and some students have turned to crime or suffered accidents. Others risk dropping out due to financial and psychological strain.
Students expressed frustration over delays in completing their studies. For instance, some cited that peers who were in primary school when they joined university are now in the same academic level, highlighting the extensive interruptions.
Leadership and Governance Issues
The university’s leadership has faced accusations of sidelining lecturers and altering governance structures. Decisions such as appointing rather than electing faculty deans have excluded academic staff from decision-making processes.
These changes trace back to 2016 when Prof. Laban Ayiro served as acting Vice-Chancellor.
Prof. Ayiro, in an earlier statement, revealed the university’s dire financial state, noting its reliance on government aid to function. His tenure saw measures like closing campuses in Nakuru and Eldoret to stabilize finances.
Despite these efforts, mismanagement persists, including controversial spending, such as Ksh. 29.8 million allocated for an unfinished gate project.
Tribalism and nepotism have further strained Moi University. In 2016, political leaders protested Prof. Ayiro’s appointment as acting VC, citing tribal bias. Such incidents have tarnished the institution’s reputation and fueled division.
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Moi University boasts a distinguished list of alumni in academia and politics, such as Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Adan Duale. In academic circles, figures like Prof. Ruth Tubey and Prof. Ambrose Kiprop stand out. These graduates’ achievements contrast sharply with the university’s current challenges.
With its rich history and notable alumni, Moi University remains a pillar of Kenyan education. However, the institution’s future depends on resolving financial and governance issues. Restoring its legacy requires collective action from stakeholders to overcome these hurdles.
Moi University VC Summoned Over Alleged Misappropriation of Ksh.2.2B.
