Petitioner Seeks 20 Million Shillings Repayment from Maasai Mara University
A Mombasa resident has filed a lawsuit demanding that former acting Vice-Chancellor of Maasai Mara University, Onyango Magak, repay the salary, allowances, and benefits totaling Sh20 million he received during his tenure in the position.
The petitioner, Mr. Benson Wemali, contends that Prof. Magak was not qualified for the role from November 2019 to January 2022.
He seeks a court declaration that the earnings unlawfully obtained during this period be reimbursed to the university. Additionally, Mr. Wemali challenges the qualification of Mr. James Nampushi, the current deputy VC, for the same period and demands repayment of more than Sh33 million in earnings.
ASO READ: Govt To Construct 16,000 Classrooms For Grade Nine Learners
Mr. Wemali alleges that Prof. Magak’s and Mr. Nampushi’s acting appointments were unconstitutional and void, arguing that Prof. Magak’s qualifications, particularly his doctorate from Washington International University, are invalid as the institution lacks accreditation.
He asserts that Prof. Magak utilized this questionable doctorate to secure employment at Maasai Mara University in 2008 and subsequently as acting VC.
The lawsuit names several defendants, including Prof. Magak, Mr. Nampushi, the university’s council, and the Education Cabinet Secretary.
Mr. Wemali claims that despite Prof. Magak’s dismissal as acting VC in January 2022, he remains employed as a full-time professor, despite doubts about his credentials. Furthermore, he cites a report by the Auditor-General highlighting irregularities during Prof. Magak’s tenure, including double salary payments.
ALSO READ: CEMASTEA Announces Virtual Training for Junior Secondary School Teachers
Mr. Wemali contends that the failure of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate these matters, despite public outcry, indicates misconduct and abuse of office by Prof. Magak and Mr. Nampushi. He insists that their appointments lacked procedural legitimacy and resulted in financial losses for the university.
In addition to seeking repayment of earnings, Mr. Wemali calls for the removal of Mr. Nampushi from his current position and the ousting of Dr. Kennedy Ole Kerei, the chairman of the university council, for overseeing these irregularities.
He requests a court order prohibiting the payment of salaries, allowances, and benefits to the implicated individuals pending the resolution of the case. The case is scheduled for mention on February 29.
ALSO READ: World’s Largest Floating University, World Odyssey, Makes Third Visit to Port of Mombasa
Petitioner Seeks 20 Million Shillings Repayment from Maasai Mara University