The University of Nairobi has named Professor Ayub Njoroge Gitau as its new vice-chancellor following a special council meeting on May 14, 2026. The decision has drawn immediate protests from rivals who allege it defies ongoing court orders. The appointment ends months of acting leadership at Kenya's oldest university.
The university council approved Gitau as the ninth substantive vice-chancellor during its Thursday session. It also appointed Professor Josiah Omollo Aduda as deputy vice-chancellor for finance, planning and development. The council praised acting vice-chancellor Professor Margaret Jesang Hutchinson for guiding the institution through the transition.
Professor Duke Omondi Orata condemned the move. He told Kenyans.co.ke that the council had acted in contempt of court orders issued in January 2026 that froze the recruitment process. Orata said he would seek contempt charges and noted the case is due for mention on May 26, 2026.
The leadership dispute dates back to earlier recruitment rounds through the Public Service Commission. Orata claims he should have been selected after Professor Bitange Ndemo withdrew in 2025. The university has faced instability since former vice-chancellor Professor Stephen Kiama left in September 2024.
