Moi University Lecturers Launch Strike Over Delayed Salaries and Alleged Misappropriation of Funds
“We are demanding an immediate investigation into allegations of misappropriation of funds,” Okero urged. He alleged that over 1 billion shillings disbursed to the institution by the government has been mismanaged.
Moi University UASU Chapter Chairman, Professor Richard Okero, addresses the media following the declaration of the start of the strike.
On Monday, Moi University lecturers officially declared the beginning of an industrial action due to the delayed payment of their salaries for two months, alongside outstanding arrears. This decision, which marks a significant escalation in their ongoing grievances, was announced during a press briefing held in Eldoret by the Moi University Academic Staff Union (MUASU). The union, led by its chairperson, Professor Richard Okero, stated that academic staff across all Moi University campuses, including Nairobi and Mombasa, have ceased all duties until their demands are met.
“We have been patient for far too long,” said Professor Okero. “The university management has failed to prioritize the welfare of its staff, and we can no longer continue to work under such conditions. Our members have not been paid for two months, and the arrears have only accumulated. This is unacceptable.” The union chair emphasized that the strike would continue indefinitely until all the dues are cleared, highlighting the frustration and desperation felt by the staff members.
Further escalating the situation, Professor Okero called upon the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to institute a thorough investigation into the financial conduct of the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Isaac Kosgey. “We are demanding an immediate investigation into allegations of misappropriation of funds,” Okero urged. He alleged that over 1 billion shillings disbursed to the institution by the government has been mismanaged. “This money was meant for the development and operations of the university, but instead, it appears to have disappeared without a trace. We cannot stand by while such injustices occur,” he added.
The union also appealed to relevant parliamentary committees to launch an independent investigation into Moi University, citing poor management practices and rampant misappropriation of resources. They raised specific concerns about a multi-million shilling apple farming project initiated by the university, which, according to the union, has been used as a cover for embezzling funds. “There has been little to no progress on this project despite the significant amount of money allocated to it. We believe it is just one of many examples of how resources are being siphoned off from the university,” Professor Okero said.
The industrial action, according to the union, is a response not only to the delayed salaries but also to a series of systemic issues that have plagued Moi University for years. The lecturers expressed that their financial hardships have reached a breaking point, affecting not only their professional responsibilities but also their personal lives. Many of them, they reported, are struggling to make ends meet and are unable to afford basic needs such as school fees for their children. “The impact of these financial constraints is devastating,” Okero explained. “Our members are unable to take their children to school, and some are struggling with basic survival. This is a serious matter that needs immediate attention from the highest levels of government.”
As the strike takes effect, Moi University faces significant disruptions across its various campuses. Lecturers have vowed not to return to work until their demands are addressed, creating uncertainty for thousands of students whose education is now in limbo. The union reiterated its commitment to the industrial action, stating that this was a necessary step to compel the university management and the government to take immediate and decisive action to resolve the ongoing crisis.
“We have exhausted all other avenues of dialogue,” said Professor Okero. “This strike is not just about us; it is about the future of higher education in Kenya. We must ensure that institutions like Moi University are managed transparently and effectively, for the benefit of both staff and students.”
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