UoN expells Babu Owino’s rival over student riots
The University of Nairobi on Friday announced the expulsion of 33 students over the recent riots that rocked the institution.
Among those expelled is Mike Jacobs who contested for the presidency of the student’s union arch-against rival Paul Ongili alias Babu Owino.
The expelled students were among the 218 students who had initially been suspended in connection to the riots following the elections for positions in the the Students Organisation of Nairobi University (Sonu).
In a press briefing on Friday, Vice Chancellor Peter Mbithi also announced that 25 students had been suspended, 17 pardoned and 143 others reprimanded.
ELECTION PETITIONS
Elections petitions that were received in connection to the students’ elections have been heard and rulings are being written.
“We would also like to inform the public and stakeholders that Independent Election Petitions Panel received 17 petitions arising from the 2016 Sonu elections. The panel has heard and finalized 4 petitions and is currently writing rulings on 12 petitions. 1 (one) petition has not started in earnest,” the VC’s statement read in part.
The institution has also ordered for an independent audit on the books of Sonu.
Students had accused Sonu leaders of misappropriation of funds.
“The Senate Committee that was appointed to audit the activities of Sonu and review its electoral process with a view to making it more accountable and responsible to the needs of students and the University has produced a preliminary report of their findings. A complete report will be tabled in the next Senate meeting,” stated the Vice Chancellor.
STUDENT HOSTELS
During the students unrest two hostels were destroyed by fire which the institution stated had been repaired.
“The University has also made improvements in the condition of halls of residence by making repairs and maintenance, lighting the surrounding environment and cleaning the hostels and halls of residence.
“Students applying for hall accommodation will be required to abide by certain rules and regulations so as to maintain order, safety and cleanliness,” read the statement.
The University of Nairobi is set to reopen next week for all students who were in session before the recent closure of the institution.
Fifth year medical students will reopen on Monday April 25, while the rest of the students will report on Tuesday May 3.
Students who were on long holiday at the time of the strike will however wait longer.
