Meru University VC Romanus Odhiambo Fired Over Poor Performance
Meru University of Science and Technology has dismissed its Vice Chancellor, Prof Romanus Odhiambo, due to poor performance.
The University Council, in a letter dated February 28, 2023, evaluated Odhiambo’s performance and found it to be below expectations.
The council, therefore, declined to renew Odhiambo’s contract as requested in his letter dated December 20, 2022.
The decision was made during the council meeting held on February 27, 2023, and communicated to Odhiambo in the letter.
Rosin Mwebi, the Council Chairman, stated in the letter that Odhiambo was not authorized to transact on any capital project in the university, and he was to restrict his transactions to personal emoluments and recurrent expenditure.
Furthermore, Odhiambo was required to proceed on his pending leave of 121 days once a suitable replacement had been identified.
Odhiambo had been serving as the Vice Chancellor of Meru University since July 2018 when he was appointed by the former Education Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed.
However, his tenure was marred by allegations of mismanagement and abuse of power. Faculty and students also accused him of infringing on their academic freedom and rights.
On Monday, Meru University staff staged demonstrations, accusing Odhiambo of illegalities and impunity in hiring staff.
They demanded the closure of the Nairobi campus and claimed that the council budget was larger than the academic budget due to numerous and unnecessary trips.
Charity Gichuki will stand in as the acting Vice Chancellor, according to a letter dated March 3, 2023.
The dismissal of Odhiambo is a reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for individuals in leadership positions to perform their duties satisfactorily.
Meru University VC Romanus Odhiambo Fired Over Poor Performance