Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

In an effort to restore Moi University’s former glory after financial struggles, Vice Chancellor Isaac Kosgei has been sent on an eight-month compulsory leave.

While speaking to the press on Saturday, February 1, council chairperson Noah Midamba announced that the university's Chief of Finance and legal officers have also been placed on leave.

He said the decision was made after meetings on January 30 and 31 to discuss changes in the institution's management.

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Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Research Isaac Kimengi was also sent on a one-year sabbatical leave.

"The council would therefore like to take this opportunity to announce the following changes that have taken place in the leadership of Moi University. The Vice Chancellor Isaac Kosgey began his 8 months annual leave on Thursday, January 30," Midamba said.

He added that following recent changes, interviews were held and distinguished scholars were selected to take over the institution's management, with their acting appointments effective from Friday, January 31.

Midamba further announced that Professor Kiplagat Kotut has been appointed acting Vice Chancellor of Moi University.

"I also have the pleasure of announcing the new acting Vice Chancellor of academic research and extension Students Affairs Professor Khaemba Ongeti," he added.

Moi University Council said it learned that Kosgey had accumulated leave days totalling about eight months.

In a statement obtained by the council said Kosgey had to go on leave since unspent leave days could not be converted to cash under the applicable university's clause.

"As you are aware the university is undergoing financial constraints and the continuous accumulation of staff leave days exposes the institution to audit queries. The above notwithstanding leave is necessary for the rest and the rejuvination for an employee's health and performance," Midamba's statement read in part.

This follows months after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) launched an investigation into Kosgey over alleged embezzlement of public funds and procurement irregularities.

In a statement on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, the public watchdog said Kosgey was suspected of misappropriating KSh 2.2 billion through questionable infrastructure projects.

Kosgey appeared before investigators at the EACC's North Rift regional offices in Eldoret, becoming the 59th suspect to record a statement.

Moi University faces debts exceeding KSh 10 billion, linked to alleged corruption, impunity, and mismanagement.

On Monday, November 18, Labour and Relations Judge Hellen Wasilwa ordered the freezing of Moi University's bank accounts.

Source: TUKO.co.ke