Multimedia University (MMU) is facing turbulence as the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) raises objections to recent leadership appointments, prompting calls for intervention from Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu. UASU Secretary General, Onesmus Mutio, has voiced concerns over the appointment process, particularly emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to established procedures.
Controversial Appointments and Union’s Stand:
The heart of the matter revolves around the recent appointments at MMU, including the acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Rosebella Maranga, two Deputy Vice-Chancellors, and the university council chairman, Moses Ole Saduka. UASU, through Mutio, has urged CS Machogu to nullify these appointments, citing procedural violations.
Appointment Process Under Scrutiny:
UASU has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency in the appointment process, raising concerns about the delayed publication of the names of shortlisted staff who underwent interviews. The union contends that a substantive chairman and a Vice Chancellor are essential for bringing stability to the university’s management, emphasizing the need for fairness in the selection process.
Exclusion of Prof Paul Mbatia:
One of the key points of contention is the exclusion of Prof Paul Mbatia from the appointments, despite having previously served as a deputy vice-chancellor alongside Prof Rosebella Maranga. UASU’s Mutio questions this omission, adding a layer of suspicion to the overall appointment process.
Discord and Failed Resolution Attempts:
The ongoing discord between MMU and UASU has led to unsuccessful meetings, chaired by Moses Ole Saduka, aimed at resolving the differences. The union insists on revisiting the appointment process and ensuring that it adheres to established norms and guidelines.
Challenges to Council Chairman’s Appointment:
UASU argues that the appointment of Moses Ole Saduka as the university council chairman violates the Universities Act of 2012, leading to chaos within the MMU community. The union contends that acting capacities for council members and unit managers create an unfair advantage for certain individuals, adding to the complexity of the situation.