The Kenyatta University Staff Union (KUSU) has raised concerns over what it described as delays in the recruitment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
In a letter to the Chair of the Kenyatta University Council, Dr Ben Chumo, the union’s branch secretary, Isaac Lokeris, claimed employees were anxious over the recruitment process and urged timely action to avoid unrest.
The letter, which was also copied to the Ministry of Education, the State Department for Higher Education, and the Public Service Commission, highlights the union’s concerns.
KUSU claimed it had written to the Council Chair on October 30, 2025, seeking an update on the recruitment but had not received a response more than a month later.
Lokeris described the lack of communication as unacceptable for an issue of such importance.
“This trend of ignoring union correspondence is concerning and the union will not take it lightly,” Lokeris wrote, adding that the silence was “both disappointing and worrying” for staff who view the matter as critical to the university community.
The union said that the perceived delay has created space for speculation regarding the selection process, which it said is affecting staff trust and morale.
Lokeris urged that resolving the recruitment matter would help restore calm and confidence, noting that the university only recently concluded a 50-day industrial action.
Kenyatta University is seeking to appoint a Vice-Chancellor with a doctorate degree and a distinguished record in academic and business leadership.
The advertised requirements emphasize a visionary leader capable of driving innovation, building an effective management team, and navigating the evolving landscape of higher education.
Under the Universities Act No. 42 of 2012 and the Kenyatta University Charter, the Vice-Chancellor serves a five-year term with the possibility of a one-time renewal, subject to a positive performance appraisal by the council.
KUSU has urged the university leadership to fast-track the recruitment and maintain clear communication, saying a smooth transition is essential for institutional stability and long-term success.
