Kenyatta University Acting VC Prof John Okumu Emerges Top Candidate for Substantive Post

Prof John Okumu, currently acting Vice-Chancellor of Kenyatta University, has emerged as the top candidate for the substantive position after interviews conducted by the Public Service Commission.

He scored 84.5 marks, ahead of Prof Stephen O Odebero with 78.5 marks and Prof Godfrey S Mse who came third with 74.5 marks. The PSC has forwarded the three names to the university council for consideration and eventual appointment in consultation with the Education Cabinet Secretary.

The recruitment process, advertised in December 2025, attracted 13 applicants by the January 9, 2026 deadline. Only two of the applicants were women, highlighting persistent gender imbalance in top university leadership positions in Kenya. Eight candidates were shortlisted and interviewed on March 24 and 25, 2026.

The process comes at a pivotal time for Kenyatta University, one of Kenya’s largest public institutions. It has faced prolonged governance disputes, financial difficulties, labour unrest and repeated court battles in recent years.

Prof Okumu has served as acting Vice-Chancellor since January 2026 following the retirement of Prof Paul Wainaina. Wainaina’s tenure ended amid controversy, including disputes over university land and multiple legal challenges after his removal and reinstatement.

The incoming Vice-Chancellor will inherit significant financial pressures. As of January 31, 2026, the university’s pending bills stood at Sh12.7 billion. These include unremitted statutory deductions such as PAYE of Sh5.8 billion, NSSF contributions of Sh393 million, housing levy arrears of Sh398 million, and pensions plus insurance arrears of Sh5.2 billion. Suppliers are owed Sh749 million and part-time lecturers Sh23 million.

Other interviewed candidates included Prof Bulitia Godrick Mathews (71 marks), Prof Mary Abukutsa-Onyango (70.5 marks), Prof Gitonga Nkanata Mburugu (69 marks) and Prof Paul Nyaga Mbatia (64 marks). Former acting VC Prof Waceke Wanjohi was not ranked after reportedly failing to meet the advertisement requirements.

The university council, chaired by Prof Clara Samiji Momanyi, will now handle the final stage of the appointment. The recruitment follows provisions of the Universities Act, 2012 and subsequent amendments.

Stakeholders expect the new Vice-Chancellor to focus on stabilising leadership, restoring financial discipline, clearing debts and rebuilding confidence in management. Acting leadership has limited capacity for long-term planning, making a substantive appointment urgent for the institution’s future competitiveness.