Vocal Nairobi Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai has urged the University of Eldoret to ensure a fair and transparent investigation into allegations against a part-time lecturer whose remarks during a lecture last week sparked widespread public debate.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 28, 2026, Alai, who describes himself as a tech evangelist, politician, and former rights activist, called on the university’s management to clarify the status of disciplinary action it announced against the lecturer, arguing that the institution must demonstrate that due process is being followed before any punishment is imposed.
The controversy stems from remarks allegedly made during a SHUM 211: State and Society Development class on September 24, which were captured on video and widely shared on social media. The lecturer was heard making comments linking students’ return to the university to the outcome of the 2027 presidential election, triggering accusations of ethnic discrimination and political bias.
What actions did the University of Eldoret take against trending lecturer?
Following public backlash, the University of Eldoret condemned the remarks, distancing itself from the lecturer and announcing what it described as “immediate and appropriate disciplinary action” in line with its internal regulations and principles of due process.
However, Alai said the wording used by the university had created uncertainty about whether investigations were still ongoing or whether a sanction had already been imposed.
“Students and staff deserve safety and dignity. The lecturer also deserves a fair, impartial process before any finding of misconduct or punishment,” Alai said.
The Kileleshwa Ward MCA urged the institution to explain whether the disciplinary action referred to an investigation, an interim administrative measure or a final sanction.
He further called for the preservation and verification of all evidence related to the matter, including digital recordings, transcripts and other contextual materials, arguing that information circulating online should be carefully authenticated before conclusions are reached.
“The point is to verify its origin, integrity and full context, hear witnesses, and give the lecturer a meaningful chance to respond. An accusation must neither be accepted nor dismissed solely because it has spread online,” he said.
Did Alai defend University of Eldoret lecturer?
Alai also cited constitutional protections on fair labour practices, fair administrative action and academic freedom, saying disciplinary proceedings in institutions of higher learning should be evidence-based and impartial.
He asked the university to guarantee a fair hearing, protect all parties involved from retaliation and provide a written account of the disciplinary process and safeguards within seven days.
The issue has attracted significant attention since a video recorded in a lecture hall went viral online. In the footage, the lecturer appeared to tell students from some regions of the country to seek admission in universities within their home areas if President William Ruto were to lose the 2027 General Election.
The University of Eldoret subsequently termed the remarks “unfortunate and unacceptable” and emphasised that they did not reflect the institution’s official position. The university further reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, inclusivity, equality and non-discrimination.
Alai maintained that while allegations of misconduct should be taken seriously, universities must balance accountability with procedural fairness.
“A university should lead the country in testing evidence and upholding rights. If misconduct is proved, act lawfully and proportionately. If the allegation is unsupported, clear the lecturer and correct the public record.”
