Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, Prof. Bitange Ndemo, has withdrawn from the race to become the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, citing serious concerns over procedural integrity.
In a statement posted on LinkedIn, Prof. Ndemo disclosed that he was among five candidates shortlisted for the position and had progressed to the final three following interviews held on March 21, 2025. He stated that on May 5, he received an official appointment letter from the University Council Chair, Hon. Prof. Amukowa Anangwe.
However, Prof. Ndemo raised alarm over the legality of the process, pointing out that the appointment had not received the mandatory approval of the Cabinet Secretary for Education, as stipulated by law. Although Prof. Anangwe assured him that the documentation had been submitted for approval, Ndemo expressed discomfort with the apparent procedural breaches.
“I wish to distance myself from an appointment process that falls short of established legal procedures. Consequently, I have withdrawn my candidacy,” he wrote.
The situation was further complicated by reports that Prof. Mulaa had already been named acting Vice Chancellor, supposedly in anticipation of Prof. Ndemo’s transition from his ambassadorial role. This premature move sparked widespread criticism and speculation online.
