Rongo University, situated in Migori, has been shut down indefinitely following a bout of student unrest on Tuesday. The decision came after an emergency session held by the university’s senate.
“Senate in a meeting held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, resolved that the university be closed indefinitely due to ongoing unrest as a result of student elections. All students are directed to vacate the university premises immediately,” stated Professor Michael Ntabo Mabururu, Deputy Vice-chancellor of academics and student affairs, in an official notice.
The turmoil erupted following disputes over the outcome of a hotly contested student leadership election. A clash between students and law enforcement personnel ensued, leading to disorderly scenes and compelling the university council to suspend operations.
The genesis of the unrest lay in the rejection of election results by a faction of students, who alleged irregularities. Supporters of a candidate known as Nick Wamamba, also referred to as Babu Nicky, voiced concerns regarding the fairness of the electoral process. Despite this, Victor Apicha was declared the legitimate winner of the Rongo University Student Association (RUSA) chairperson position.
Tensions escalated throughout Tuesday, culminating in clashes with police officers dispatched to maintain order on campus. In light of the deteriorating situation, the university administration, led by Vice Chancellor Prof Samuel Gudu, made the decision to close the institution.
The closure was prompted by significant property damage, including broken windows and other structural vandalism.
