By Anne Nyambura
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is facing potential mass protests following an ultimatum from students demanding the immediate reinstatement of Professor Amukowa Anangwe as Chair of Council. The students, expressing their dissatisfaction with his dismissal, have vowed to shut down the institution and occupy key government offices if their grievances are not addressed.
In a press conference held on Sunday, student leaders warned that they would paralyze activities across all 13 faculties, including the main campus and city branches, if their demands were ignored.
Michael Soi, a student at UoN, made the students’ stance clear, stating that they would escalate their actions if no formal communication was provided regarding Prof. Anangwe’s dismissal.
“We have gathered here today to ensure that if we do not receive a formal communication addressing our concerns, all 13 faculties of the University of Nairobi, especially the main campus and CBD branches, will shut down. We will not hesitate to occupy the offices of senior government officials and even Parliament, where bribery appears to be influencing decisions,” said Soi.The students drew comparisons to the recent Gen Z-led protests, emphasizing their ability to mobilize effectively and exert pressure on authorities when provoked. Soi defended Prof. Anangwe’s tenure, highlighting his critical role in stabilizing the institution’s financial situation and governance.
Speaking at the same conference, University of Nairobi Student Association (UNSA) President Rocha Madzayo accused certain elements within the institution of attempting to undermine the efforts of the Chancellor, Professor Patrick Verkooijen, who has been leading a 24-month transformation agenda to ensure financial sustainability.
“It has come to our attention that certain individuals within the institution are attempting to undermine our Chancellor, Professor Patrick Verkooijen, despite his efforts to stabilize our university’s financial woes. We stand firmly behind him and his 24-month transformative agenda to ensure financial sustainability,” Madzayo stated.The students accused external political forces of interfering in the university’s leadership and denounced alleged corruption and mismanagement. They insisted that arbitrary leadership changes would only hinder the institution’s progress and credibility.
“It is unjust to fire a doctor for treating patients. Professor Anangwe was simply fulfilling his mandate. We call for his immediate reinstatement,” added Madzayo.Students argue that leadership changes without due process threaten the university’s stability and financial recovery. They are demanding transparency and continuity in governance, warning that without it, UoN risks further financial distress and inefficiencies.
“We cannot progress if leadership changes are made arbitrarily. We need strong, visionary leadership to steer our university forward,” Madzayo reiterated.As tensions rise, all eyes are now on UoN’s management and government authorities to determine whether they will address the students’ demands or brace for widespread protests that could disrupt academic activities and extend to senior government offices.
