Students Cry Foul as Election Commission Faces Allegations of Suppression
Nairobi, Kenya – The University of Nairobi, Kenya’s premier institution of higher learning, is facing intense criticism over claims of political interference and suppression of student leadership. The university’s Independent Electoral Commission, tasked with overseeing student elections, has been accused of manipulating the electoral process to sideline strong, independent-minded candidates in favour of pro-government aspirants.
With the ongoing student elections, prominent candidates known for their commitment to justice and social change have allegedly been subjected to intimidation, fake charges, and arbitrary disqualifications. These actions, students say, are part of a larger effort to weaken youth leadership and maintain control over student governance.
Unjust Disqualifications and Alleged Political Manipulation
One of the affected aspirants from the Faculty of Law shared her ordeal, revealing how a statement from the Dean of her faculty led to her disqualification. According to her, the Dean falsely claimed she had a case against her—one she had never been informed about, summoned for, or given a chance to address.
Such incidents have fuelled concerns that the university is actively working to install leaders who will not challenge the administration or advocate for student rights. Critics argue that this suppression mirrors state-led efforts to silence the voices of young leaders who are determined to challenge corruption and poor governance.
Students Demand Free and Fair Elections
The current leadership of the University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA) has urged the electoral commission to conduct free and fair elections, warning against the imposition of hand-picked leaders who do not represent the interests of students.
“This is a clear attempt to suppress young voices and maintain a status quo that does not serve the interests of students,” a student leader remarked. “The university should be a place that nurtures leadership, not one that crushes it.”
A System Rigged Against Student Activism?
For decades, student leadership in Kenya has played a critical role in shaping the nation’s political landscape. Many prominent political figures, including current Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Aden Duale, rose through student activism. However, a 2015 bill introduced by Duale altered the election process, replacing direct voting with an electoral college system—effectively weakening student organizations and activism.
With this year’s election marred by controversy, students are demanding answers from the university administration. They are calling for a public statement explaining the mass disqualifications and for reforms that will restore the integrity of student governance.
As the election approaches, the big question remains: Will the students’ voices be heard, or will the dream of genuine leadership at the University of Nairobi be crushed once again?