National Assembly Education Committee Chairman Julius Melly has criticized Moi University management for laying off casual workers, stating that the move goes against an earlier agreement with education stakeholders.
Speaking in Eldoret, the Tinderet MP noted that a structured plan had been developed to handle excess staff without abrupt dismissals, as part of efforts to restore the institution’s former glory.
“We agreed on a formula to manage excess staff without sending anyone home. However, I have received reports that some workers have been sacked. That was not the agreement. We have a clear exit strategy, and we want this university to regain its lost status,” Melly stated.
The legislator emphasized that the government had already allocated Ksh. 2 billion to the university and was set to disburse additional funds to help stabilize its financial situation.
“Our agreement was that as employees retire, they would not be replaced, creating a natural reduction in staff. At no point did we agree to mass layoffs,” he added.
Melly urged local residents to hold off on planned demonstrations as he engages the acting vice-chancellor and the university board on the matter.
“I am reaching out to the university leadership to find a solution. Let’s allow dialogue to resolve this issue,” he appealed.