The Public Service Commission (PSC) has defended the appointment of former Permanent Secretary Prof Bitange Ndemo as University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor, insisting the process was competitive and lawful.

PSC vice-chairperson Mary W. Kimonye (pictured) said candidates were ranked based on interview performance, with the merit list forwarded to university council chairperson, Prof Amukowa Anangwe, for appointment in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary, per Section 35(1) (a) (v) of the Universities Act.

Kimonye noted that Ndemo’s appointment, along with Prof Francis Mulaa as deputy vice-chancellor for academic affairs, were among 19 vacancies filled at various public universities since January.

“With the exception of the University of Nairobi, the [PSC] has not witnessed any leadership disagreements in the appointments of [vice-chancellors] among the other universities whose recruitments have been processed,” Kimonye said.

She urged parties to “resolve the wrangles to save the country unnecessary anxiety and stem the deterioration of the image” of the University of Nairobi.

The controversy erupted when Ndemo declined the position, citing procedural flaws. Anangwe had appointed Mulaa as acting Vice-Chancellor as Ndemo served his final months as ambassador to Belgium and the European Union.

‘No consultations’

But the Education Ministry objected to the appointment, insisting that it was not involved in any consultations or meetings with the University Council regarding the appointments.

In a statement, Higher Education Principal Secretary Dr Beatrice Inyangala accused the University Council of by-passing proper channels, stating: “We can therefore firmly confirm that no council meeting was ever convened to discuss and make decisions on appointments at the University of Nairobi”.

Inyangala subsequently revoked Mulaa’s appointment and reinstated Prof Margaret J. Hutchinson.

Anangwe defended the appointments and challenged the ministry to resist pressure, “promoting impunity and ignoring legal procedures”.