Prof. Chacha blocking return of Walingo to Maasai Mara University

Acting Maasai Mara University Vice Chancellor Prof. Joseph Chacha has issued a notice warning all staff members not to recognise the presence of former VC, Prof Mary Walingo, or to adhere to any duties she may assign them to do.

In a memo dated January 31, 2023, Prof. Chacha told the staff members that Prof. Walingo has not been reinstated by the university and that she remains barred from accessing the institution’s premises.

“You are hereby notified that Prof. Mary Walingo has not been reinstated by the University Council, neither are there orders given by court directing her physical resumption of duty,” reads the memo.

Chacha issued out the memo despite an earlier order by the Public Service Commission (PSC) directing that Walingo be reinstated back to her position until her corruption case is heard and determined or until her contract is terminated in compliance with the law.

According to Chacha who wants to be made the substantial VC of the embattled institution, Prof. Walingo has not been officially cleared by the court and her job resumption is not on any official approval and thereby terms her access to the university premises as illegal.

He further warned the university staff against aiding or abetting Prof. Walingo’s entry into the university, adding that anyone found culpable will be held liable and dealt with.

“… it has been noted with concern that some members of staff are aiding and abetting Prof.Walingo’s entry into the University, thus interfering with the normal operations of the University. You are notified that such acts border on insubordination of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the University Council, and as such, individuals will be held liable for their actions,” states Prof. Chacha.

Prof. Walingo was sent on leave in 2019 after she was implicated in the Sh.177 million corruption scandal where she was charged alongside four other officials from the university for withdrawing money irregularly in crimes dating back to 2016. 

But in September last year, PSC directed that Walingo be reinstated back to her position pending a hearing and determination of the case against her.

PSC Chief Executive Officer Simon Rotich also directed that she be paid half of her salary and allowances from the date of her suspension.

“The appellant be reinstated back to her employment on suspension pending the hearing and determination of the Anti-Corruption Case and/or until her contract is lawfully terminated,” read part of the statement.

After her suspension, Walingo was succeeded by Prof Kitche Magak who was later replaced by Prof. Joseph Chacha in January 2022.

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Nick O