The Public Service Commission (PSC) has issued a statement addressing recent media reports and public concern over the stalled appointment of a Vice Chancellor at the University of Nairobi, urging stakeholders to resolve the matter swiftly in the interest of national academic stability.
Describing the ongoing deadlock as “regrettable” and “not in the best interest of the country,” the PSC warned that the impasse threatens the smooth delivery of critical services and academic programmes at what it termed Kenya’s most iconic university.
In a detailed communication released on Wednesday, the PSC reaffirmed that it conducted a competitive, merit-based recruitment process in accordance with Section 35(1)(a)(v) of the Universities Act (Cap 210), as amended by the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act No. 18 of 2018.
“The Commission advertised the vacancies, shortlisted qualified applicants, interviewed them, and ranked the top candidates based on performance.
A merit list was subsequently forwarded to the Chairperson of the University Council for appointment in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary,” the statement read.
Citing Article 234(5) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the PSC emphasized its constitutional responsibility to ensure that the Public Service is managed efficiently and effectively, and that all appointments comply with legal requirements.
The Commission further highlighted its recent efforts to address a backlog of top-level university appointments, disclosing that since January 2025, it has successfully processed all 19 pending vacancies in 13 public universities.
including: Open University of Kenya, Garissa University, Pwani University, Technical University of Kenya, Multimedia University, Meru University of Science and Technology, Kisii University, Karatina University, Kaimosi University, Turkana University, Alupe University, Tharaka University and University of Nairobi.
“With the exception of the University of Nairobi, the Commission has not witnessed any leadership disagreements in the appointments of Vice Chancellors in the other universities,” it added, reaffirming public confidence in the Commission’s transparency and professionalism.
In a strong appeal, the PSC urged all relevant parties at the University of Nairobi to resolve the current impasse amicably and in line with the law, warning that prolonged delays risk damaging the university’s reputation and disrupting operations.
“The Public Service Commission remains committed to delivering its mandate fairly, efficiently, and professionally, and will continue to support efforts that strengthen public institutions,” the statement concluded.
The statement underscores growing national concern over governance issues in higher education institutions and reaffirms PSC’s role as a central actor in promoting accountability and transparency in public service recruitment.
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