University of Eldoret: Lecturer Faces Disciplinary Action Over Ruto Remarks

• The University of Eldoret (UoE) initiated disciplinary action against a part-time lecturer for political remarks made during a class session.
• The lecturer's comments, captured in a viral video, concerned President William Ruto's 2027 re-election bid and suggested students from non-supporting regions should attend local universities if he lost.
• UoE condemned the remarks as "unfortunate and unacceptable," stating they do not represent the university's official position or views.
• The university emphasized that all staff must uphold institutional policies, professional standards, and due process in their conduct.
• The disciplinary process is underway to determine if institutional policies or professional obligations were breached, though specific details about the lecturer or measures were not disclosed.

The controversial statements were reportedly uttered on September 24 during a teaching session for the course SHUM 211: State and Society, held at ED5.

The University of Eldoret (UoE) has initiated disciplinary proceedings against one of its part-time lecturers following remarks made during a class session concerning President William Ruto's potential 2027 re-election. The institution's action came on September 29, two days after a video clip of the lecturer's political comments went viral across social media platforms. The controversial statements were reportedly uttered on September 24 during a teaching session for the course SHUM 211: State and Society, held at ED5.

TheThe video captures the lecturer engaging with students who were discussing President Ruto's prospects for serving only a single term. In response, the lecturer suggested that individuals from regions not supporting the President's re-election should consider enrolling in universities within their respective areas if he were to lose the 2027 election. The lecturer also appeared to defend the President's performance, drawing parallels with previous presidents who served multiple terms. These UoE lecturer political comments quickly garnered significant online attention, prompting discussions about the appropriateness of political discourse within an academic setting.

In response to the viral video, the University of Eldoret, through its Corporate Affairs and Marketing Department, issued a statement condemning the remarks. The institution unequivocally described the utterances as "unfortunate and unacceptable," clarifying that they do not reflect, represent, or constitute the official position, policy, or views of the University of Eldoret. This swift disavowal underscores the university's commitment to institutional neutrality.

The university emphasized that all its staff members, including those on part-time contracts, are bound by institutional policies, applicable laws, professional standards, and the obligations arising from their employment. The statement highlighted that the university maintains stringent standards for professionalism, academic integrity, respect, inclusivity, and responsible conduct across its entire community. It further stressed that any individual remarks attributed to staff members should not be interpreted as representing the institution's official stance.

Following the incident, the University of Eldoret commenced immediate disciplinary action against the lecturer, affirming that this process would adhere strictly to its established policies, regulations, and due process. The ongoing disciplinary procedure aims to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the lecturer's conduct and determine whether any institutional policies or professional obligations were breached. The university, however, did not disclose the identity of the lecturer or provide specific details regarding the disciplinary measures under consideration, nor did it elaborate on how the video was recorded or disseminated.

The institution reiterated its foundational principles, affirming its commitment to serving a diverse student body from Kenya and internationally, while safeguarding their dignity, rights, safety, and welfare. The University of Eldoret also reaffirmed its dedication to the rule of law, institutional accountability, academic professionalism, equality, and non-discrimination, asserting these principles as central to its operations. This University of Eldoret lecturer disciplinary action Ruto remarks case highlights the institution's efforts to uphold its values amidst public scrutiny.

Compliance officers in Kenyan educational institutions should review their staff conduct and social media policies to ensure they adequately address political expression and maintain institutional neutrality, while also upholding due process in disciplinary actions. This case highlights the potential for employment disputes arising from such disciplinary measures.

Source: Original reporting via {source}