The Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) has filed a petition in the High Court to challenge Kibabii University's intention to confer an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters on Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka. COFEK's Secretary General Stephen Mutoro stated that the federation is questioning the award's legitimacy, citing concerns over the process and timing. The petition seeks clarification on whether the award is an independent academic honour or a benefit linked to Lusaka's position as a sitting governor.
COFEK's petition also seeks clarification on whether Kibabii University followed the Commission for University Education's guidelines for honorary awards, which require an objective and fair selection process. The federation is not opposed to recognising leaders for genuine contributions, but rather challenges the timing, selection process, and perceived link between the award and the governor's current office. This move has sparked debate over the criteria for awarding honorary degrees in Kenyan institutions.
High Court Justice Emily Ominde certified the matter as urgent, ordering that the petition be served on the respondents within three days and giving them five days to file responses. This development has put Kibabii University's plans on hold, as the institution had announced that the honorary degree would be awarded during its 11th Graduation Ceremony on 20 November 2026. The ceremony is expected to draw significant attention, given Lusaka's prominence in Kenyan politics and public service.
Kibabii University's decision to award Lusaka an honorary doctorate was based on his contributions to public service, devolved governance, education, and environmental conservation. The university highlighted Lusaka's role in supporting the institution's charter acquisition in 2015 and the development of the Bachelor of Cooperative and Entrepreneurship Management programme. These achievements have been recognised as significant milestones in the institution's history.
Governor Lusaka's contributions to education and environmental conservation have been notable in his tenure. His efforts to promote education and sustainable practices have earned him recognition across the country. However, COFEK's challenge has raised questions about the criteria used to award honorary degrees and the potential implications for academic institutions.
The Consumer Federation's challenge is not against recognising leaders for genuine contributions, but rather against the perceived politicisation of academic honours. COFEK's Secretary General Stephen Mutoro emphasised that the federation's goal is to ensure that such awards are given based on merit and a fair selection process, rather than being influenced by the recipient's position or connections.
The outcome of the High Court case will have significant implications for Kibabii University and the broader academic community in Kenya. If the court rules in favour of COFEK, it could lead to a review of the university's processes for awarding honorary degrees and potentially impact future awards. The case is set to be heard in the coming weeks, with all parties eagerly awaiting the court's decision.
Key points
- The Consumer Federation of Kenya has petitioned the High Court to halt Kibabii University's plan to award Governor Kenneth Lusaka an honorary doctorate.
- COFEK challenges the timing, selection process, and perceived link between the award and Lusaka's position as a sitting governor.
- The High Court's decision will have significant implications for Kibabii University and the broader academic community in Kenya.
