The University of Eldoret has launched an investigation into a part-time lecturer who was recorded making pro-Ruto remarks and threatening students if President William Ruto loses the 2027 election. The lecturer, whose identity has not been disclosed, made the comments during a class session, which was recorded by a student. In the recording, the lecturer is heard campaigning for President Ruto's re-election and warning students that they should not return to the university if his preferred candidate loses.
According to the recording, the lecturer stated that President Ruto's administration would rule for two terms, comparing it to the 24-year rule of former President Daniel Moi. He dismissed claims that the Kenya Kwanza administration would only serve one term, saying that the President's term would not be limited. The lecturer's comments have sparked outrage on social media, with many Kenyans calling for disciplinary action against him.
The lecturer's remarks took a threatening turn when he warned students that they should not return to the university if President Ruto loses the election. He told them to seek education elsewhere, saying "Akienda one term usikuje hii University. Get a university at your home." The lecturer's comments have been widely condemned, with many questioning how he could use his position to promote a particular political candidate.
The University of Eldoret has issued a statement saying that the lecturer's comments do not represent the university's position or policy. The university's administration has instituted immediate disciplinary action against the lecturer, in accordance with university policies and regulations. The university has promised to take action to ensure that its lecturers maintain a neutral stance on politics.
The incident has sparked a wider debate about the role of lecturers in promoting political neutrality in universities. Many have argued that lecturers should maintain a neutral stance on politics and avoid promoting particular candidates. Others have called for greater accountability and transparency in the university's handling of such incidents.
The University of Eldoret has a large student population, and the incident has caused concern among students and staff. The university's management has promised to take action to prevent similar incidents in the future. An investigation is ongoing, and the lecturer's fate remains uncertain.
The incident has also raised questions about the impact of politics on education in Kenya. With the 2027 election approaching, there are concerns that politics could increasingly influence the education sector. The University of Eldoret has assured students and staff that it will take action to maintain a neutral and safe learning environment.
Key points
- The University of Eldoret has launched an investigation into a part-time lecturer who made pro-Ruto remarks and threatened students if President Ruto loses the 2027 election.
- The lecturer's comments have sparked outrage on social media, with many Kenyans calling for disciplinary action against him.
- The university has issued a statement saying that the lecturer's comments do not represent the university's position or policy.
