Dedan Kimathi University Suspends 13 Student Leaders

Dedan Kimathi University

DEDAN Kimathi University of Technology in Nyeri has suspended 13 student leaders pending disciplinary action.

The leaders include Secretary General of the University Students Association Njoro Kunyiha, chairman Kabutu Muchori, vice chairman Kelvin Okemwa, Irungu Maina who is the Academic Secretary of the association.

Others include John Mwangi, Macharia Njuguna, Gikonyo Mohamed, Kenneth Anyumba and Kipkoech Cheruiyot, Mosi Odhiambo, Ndegwa King'ori, Manywe Wakimoko and Bosire Momanyi.

In a one- page memo signed by acting vice chancellor Prof Ndirangu Kioni on May 10, the student leaders are accused of calling for demonstrations on November last year without obtaining permission from the university authority, causing malicious damage and wilful destruction of property among others.

However, Kunyiha and Maina moved to Nyeri High Court and managed to get orders stopping the university from the suspension.

Justice Anthony Ombwayo issued a temporary order stopping the university from suspending the two Kunyiha and Maina pending the filling of a case challenging their suspension.

The students lawyer Muhoho Gichimu told the court that the move was against University's statute and the Students' organization constitution which is approved by the administration. He said his clients' rights were violated as the decision to suspend them was a unilateral one made by the acting vice chancellor as they were not granted any hearing prior to their suspension.

The judge granted them 21 days to file a judicial review challenging the decision to suspend them pending disciplinary action.