Eldoret Human Rights Activist Condemns Mass Sacking of Over 300 Moi University Workers, Calls for Immediate Reversal

 

 Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has condemned in the strongest terms possible the recent decision by the new Moi University management to dismiss over 300 workers, calling it "inhumane," "unnecessary," and a gross violation of workers' rights. Ngetich, who has long been a staunch advocate for the rights of workers in Kenya, expressed his deep disappointment at what he described as the new administration’s failure to prioritize the welfare of employees.

"This action is not just unwarranted, it is utterly immoral," Ngetich remarked, adding that the move by the new administration is the height of hypocrisy, especially considering the significant hopes and expectations that were placed on them to revive the troubled institution. "Everyone had hoped that this new management would address the long-standing issues of mismanagement, corruption, and tribalism that plagued the previous regime. However, it is clear now that the new team has begun on the wrong foot."

Ngetich's comments come in the wake of the university's decision to lay off more than 300 workers, many of whom had not been paid for over a year. These workers had been enduring significant hardship due to the financial challenges at Moi University, which had been struggling with poor leadership, corruption, and inefficiencies under its former administration. Despite the new administration taking charge with promises of reform, the mass sackings have left workers in a state of shock and disillusionment, particularly those who had hoped that the new management would bring about positive change.

"The very people who had been without pay for over a year are the ones being dismissed now. This is a clear demonstration of the new administration’s complete lack of empathy and understanding of the workers' plight," Ngetich continued. "How can anyone justify such a drastic decision? How can you throw out people who have already been subjected to months of hardship without pay, without proper compensation, and without any viable solutions to their problems?"

The activist expressed concern that this mass sacking was not only morally wrong, but it also raised serious questions about the true motivations behind the decision. According to Ngetich, there is a growing sense that the decision to dismiss workers was an attempt by the new leadership to consolidate power and bring in their own team, further entrenching the corrupt practices that had undermined the institution’s stability in the past.

"Is this really about reform, or is this just a way for the new administration to replace the existing workforce with their own allies, furthering the corruption that has already damaged the institution?" he questioned. "It is a glaring indication that the cartels that once ran the institution are still very much in control. This is not a clean break from the past; rather, it is a continuation of the same corrupt practices that have been a major part of the institution’s downfall."

Ngetich’s concerns stem from the broader context of Moi University's troubled history, where corruption, mismanagement, and tribal favoritism were reportedly widespread. Under the previous regime, there were allegations that key positions were given to individuals based on political or tribal loyalty, rather than merit or qualifications. Ngetich believes the recent sackings may be a sign that these very same forces are still manipulating the university’s direction.

"The question we must ask is whether this decision was made for the good of the institution or whether it was driven by personal and political motives," he said. "How can we trust this new administration if it is so quick to take such drastic measures without consulting with the workers or involving all the necessary stakeholders in the decision-making process? The workers’ rights have been violated in the most egregious manner, and we cannot stand by and let this go unchallenged."

In addition to the emotional and social toll this decision will undoubtedly have on the dismissed workers and their families, Ngetich raised concerns about the legal ramifications for the university. He expressed doubts over the legal basis for the dismissals and warned that the move could lead to significant legal expenses for the institution at a time when it is already financially struggling. "This decision could cost the university millions in legal fees, and at the end of the day, it could even lead to the auctioning of university assets," he pointed out.

"Was it right for the new administration to push the institution into a situation where it may find itself embroiled in costly legal battles? What will it achieve, and how will it help the university recover from its current financial challenges?" Ngetich asked. "The consequences of such decisions could be catastrophic, both for the workers and the institution itself."

March 23, 2025