The University of Eldoret has taken disciplinary action against a part-time lecturer for making political remarks during a class session. A video of the lecturer went viral on social media, sparking widespread reactions online. In the video, the lecturer defended President William Ruto's performance and told students from regions that do not support his re-election to seek admission at universities in their respective regions if he loses the 2027 election. The university has condemned the remarks, stating they do not represent its position or official views.
The University of Eldoret issued a statement on September 27, 2026, expressing its strong condemnation of the lecturer's remarks. According to the institution, the lecturer's comments were made during a session in the lecture room on September 24, 2026. The university upholds the highest standards of professionalism, academic integrity, respect, inclusivity, and responsible conduct in the discharge of its mandate. It added that all members of staff, including part-time lecturers, are required to conduct themselves in accordance with University policies and applicable laws.
The lecturer's comments have generated significant online debate, with some users questioning the appropriateness of political remarks in a university lecture hall. The university, however, has clarified that the remarks attributed to the lecturer do not reflect its position, policy, or official views. The institution has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, rights, safety, and welfare of all members of its community, serving a diverse student population from Kenya and across the world.
The University of Eldoret has instituted immediate and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with its policies, regulations, and principles of due process. The institution will take necessary measures where the conduct of any staff member is found to be inconsistent with the required standards. The university remains committed to the rule of law, institutional accountability, academic professionalism, equality, and non-discrimination.
President William Ruto's 2027 re-election bid has sparked significant interest and debate in Kenya. The lecturer's comments have added fuel to the discussion, highlighting the intersection of politics and education in the country. The University of Eldoret's swift action demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a neutral and professional environment for its students and staff.
The incident has raised questions about the role of lecturers in shaping students' opinions and the boundaries of academic freedom. The University of Eldoret's response emphasizes the importance of separating personal opinions from institutional views. The institution has a responsibility to ensure that its staff and students engage in respectful and constructive dialogue, free from coercion or bias.
The University of Eldoret's actions will likely be closely watched by stakeholders in the education sector and beyond. The institution's commitment to upholding its values and policies will be crucial in maintaining trust and credibility with its students, staff, and the broader community. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible communication and conduct in academic settings.
Key points
- The University of Eldoret has taken disciplinary action against a part-time lecturer for making political remarks during a class session.
- The lecturer's comments were widely shared on social media, sparking debate about the intersection of politics and education in Kenya.
- The university has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding its values, including professionalism, academic integrity, and respect for diversity.
