UASU Announces Strike Notice Over Unresolved UoN Leadership Dispute
The University of Nairobi Chapter of the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) has announced a seven-day strike notice due to ongoing leadership disputes at the institution.
Chapter Secretary Maloba Wekesa made the announcement on Tuesday, August 6, highlighting the instability caused by the suspension of Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama by the University Council.
According to Maloba Wekesa, UASU-UoN has experienced significant instability, with three different University Councils in the past three years. Wekesa emphasized that, while councils change, the staff remain a constant presence.
He pointed out that the frequent changes in leadership have negatively impacted the staff, who bear the brunt of these erratic shifts. Meanwhile, students come, graduate, and leave, highlighting the continuity and commitment of the staff amidst ongoing changes.
Council’s Actions Questioned
Addressing the Council Chair, Amukowa Anangwe, Wekesa challenged Anangwe’s assertion that staff complaints were the reason behind Kiama’s suspension.
He stated that the union had not been consulted regarding any such complaints and that UASU was unaware of their existence. Wekesa expressed confusion over how the Council could address staff issues through channels not recognized by UASU.
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Wekesa reiterated that UASU is the legal entity responsible for representing the academic staff. The union asserted its position as the official voice of the staff and criticized the leadership conflicts within the Council for causing delays in disbursing July salaries, calling it a “slap in the face” to the hardworking staff.
Concerns Over Salary Delays
The union expressed concern about the delayed salary payments, warning the University Council of potential actions if salaries were not paid promptly and consistently in future months.
UASU emphasized that a delay in salary payments signals an unstable and uncertain future, which is unacceptable to the union. They demanded immediate and regular monthly salary payments to ensure stability for the staff.
The council had previously rejected a request for a second term from the Vice Chancellor, Stephen Kiama, placing him on a three-month suspension pending an investigation into alleged misconduct and insubordination.
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Consequently, the council appointed Prof. Margaret Hutchinson as acting Vice Chancellor.
Call for Responsible Leadership
Wekesa acknowledged the Council’s authority in appointing the CEO but stressed the importance of exercising such powers with temperance, humility, and respect.
He emphasized that the Council should ensure the institution’s financial stability while respecting the rights and interests of the academic staff.
UASU warned that they would take action if the Council failed to address these issues promptly.
UASU Announces Strike Notice Over Unresolved UoN Leadership Dispute
