Renowned academic and diplomat Professor Elijah Bitange Ndemo has formally declined his appointment as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, raising concerns over procedural irregularities and the absence of the required approval from the Ministry of Education.
In an official statement, Prof Ndemo acknowledged that he was among the five candidates shortlisted for the prestigious role and advanced to the final round of selection following interviews conducted on March 21, 2025.
Despite receiving a formal appointment letter dated May 5, 2025, from University Council Chairperson Hon. Prof Amukowa Anangwe, Ndemo chose to reject the offer, citing non-adherence to legal and procedural requirements, particularly the lack of ministerial concurrence mandated by law.
“I sought confirmation from the Chairman regarding the Minister for Education’s concurrence, as required by law. Prof Anangwe assured me that it was being addressed and that he had submitted the necessary documents an hour earlier,” said Prof Ndemo. “Additionally, the Chairman had already issued a letter to Prof Mulaa to act as VC until my release from my current post. The announcement triggered a flood of congratulatory messages on social media. However, I dissociate myself from this unprocedural process and have withdrawn my candidacy for the position.”
This come a day after an earlier announcement, widely reported in the media, indicated that Prof Ndemo had been appointed VC, succeeding Prof Stephen Kiama. The appointment letter sent to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba stated the decision was effective May 2, 2025, pending Council ratification. The University Council had also appointed Prof Francis Mulaa as acting VC during the transition period.
Prof Ndemo, Kenya’s current Ambassador to Belgium and a former ICT Permanent Secretary, is widely respected for his contributions to the country’s digital economy. He played a leading role in initiatives such as the TEAMS fibre optic cable project, the Kenya Open Data Initiative, and the early development of Konza Technopolis.
The Ministry of Education and the University Council have yet to issue statements in response to Prof Ndemo’s withdrawal.
