Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, Prof. Bitange Ndemo, has formally declined his appointment as the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi (UoN), citing concerns over procedural irregularities in the recruitment process.

The University Council announced Prof. Ndemo’s appointment on Thursday, stating that he would assume office following the conclusion of his diplomatic assignment.

He was set to succeed Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, who has been serving in an acting capacity.

In a letter dated May 5, 2025, the Council further appointed Prof. Francis Jackim Mulaa as the new Acting Vice Chancellor for a six-month term. This interim period allowed Prof. Ndemo ample time to transition back to Kenya and prepare for the leadership role.

However, in a statement released the same day, Prof. Ndemo publicly rejected the appointment, labeling the process as lacking transparency and due diligence.

“I wish to make it unequivocally clear that I dissociate myself from this unprocedural process. In light of these circumstances, I have formally withdrawn my candidacy for the position of Vice Chancellor at the University of Nairobi,” Prof. Ndemo stated.

He further disclosed that upon receiving the appointment letter, he contacted University Council Chairman Prof. Amukowa Anangwe to verify whether the required approval from the Cabinet Secretary for Education had been secured.

Although the Chairman assured him that all necessary documents had been submitted, Prof. Ndemo insisted that proper legal channels had not been fully observed.

Despite receiving numerous congratulatory messages on social media following the initial announcement, Prof. Ndemo reaffirmed his position, emphasizing the importance of following lawful procedures in public appointments.