Editor's Review

He said the VC is a family and he, therefore, did not deserve to be treated in such a way.


Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has apologised to Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Paul Wanaina for the public humiliation he received for refusing to cede part of the institution's land.

Speaking at the university's graduation ceremony on Friday, Gachagua said it was wrong for the former government to harass the VC in such a manner.

He said the VC is a family and he, therefore, did not deserve to be treated in such a way.

"Professor Wainaina and the senate, on behalf of the government of the Republic of Kenya and the political leadership, we want to apologise to you and the family and the KU fraternity for the humiliation you were accorded for standing firm and refusing to allow the KU land to be grabbed," he said.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressing KU Graduation Ceremony. PHOTO | COURTESY

Gachagua said the Kenyan government will engage the university to have a section of land given to squatters and the rest given back to the university.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta castigated Wanaina for refusing to cede the land for a World Health Organization project and to also resettle squatters.

Uhuru vowed to deal with Prof Wainaina and the university council “swiftly and effectively”.

The move led to Wanaina bidding goodbye to the institution staff saying he had been pushed out of the facility for refusing to cede the land.

“This is probably the last time I am talking to you as VC. I understand a new council is being formed,” Wainaina said amid tears while addressing staff.

He was however reinstated by the court which handed him back his position.