Hamisi professionals have thrown their weight behind embattled Kaimosi Friends University acting vice chancellor professor Jack Nandi, saying those calling for his ouster are pushing personal business interests.
Led by William Kitagwa, the professionals have accused Banja Ward Member of County Assembly Collins Anyanje Ayugu of fighting Prof. Nandi after he (Ayugu) failed to get a security contract from the university.
“We have worked with Professor Nandi from the inception of this university and found him a dedicated worker who means well for the institution,” Dr. William Kitagwa who addressed the Media at Cheptulu said.
“There are few individuals who are inciting the leadership and the community against Nandi yet the process of choosing the substantial vice chancellor is underway which should be left to produce a leader that will be embraced by all,” the Hamisi Professionals leader added warning against allowing politics into the University which he said would hinder its growth.
Dr. Kitagwa urged those eyeing tenders from the university to use the right channels instead of picketing over the same.
At the same time, Former Vihiga deputy governor Dr. Patrick Lumumba accused the Banja ward MCA of using faceless individuals to fight some Hamisi leaders.
“Collins Ayugu was at the forefront agitating for my removal from the deputy governor position, I left, what did he benefit from that?” Saisi posed.
“He has now turned to professor Nandi yet our member of parliament has remained silent over the matter instead of calling Ayugu to order!” He said.
Others who have come to the defense of Prof. Nandi include the Tiriki Cultural leader Okode Ingara who asked people to ignore Ayugu, saying Tiriki community embraces everyone without discriminating against people based on their ethnic background.
“We have been known to be a peaceful community who embrace visitors, intermarry and accept others to settle in our pieces of land,” Okode said.
Banja ward MCA Collins Ayugu led a protest outside Kaimosi Friends University protesting the move by the Public Service Board to shortlist professor Jack Nandi in the interviews that seek to fill the University’s vice chancellor position.
“For corruption, nepotism and discrimination in employment to end at Kaimosi University, Nandi must go!” he said on Thursday before Cheptulu police dispersed the crowd that had gathered to listen to him.
