MASINDE Muliro university of Science and Technology Vice-chancellor Prof. Fredrick Ochieng Otieno is set to appear before the Ethics and Anti-corruption Commission (EACC) to clear his name against claims of ethnicity, financial impropriety and abuse of office.
A copy of the summons from the anti-graft body dated May 11th and signed by the Western region boss Ephantus Mutahi read; ‘The EACC is carrying out an investigation into complaints of misappropriation of funds, abuse of office and employment irregularities at the university.’
The EACC has asked the Don to appear before the commission offices in Kisumu in the morning to facilitate the investigation by providing information on the matter during interrogation by detectives. A detailed account of the charges against the university Don was not attached to the summons.
The EACC met six top stewards of the three unions; Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU) UASU chapter chairman Prof. Sammy Kubasu and his secretary as well the chairman and secretary of the Kenya union of domestic, hotels, education and allied workers (Kudheiha) today (Monday).
The summons adds a new spectacle to the unending differences that pit Prof. Otieno’ and his principal assistants in the university administration and the union leadership. Prof Otieno was unavailable for comment when reached on his phone.
The university public relations officer Winnie Malala also declined to comment about the questionable payment of up to Sh2.2 million as rent for Prof. Otieno’s residence in Mumias managerial estate that lacked the university council’s approval.
According to one document, Prof. Otieno earned a total of Sh2.2 million in-house allowances for two years from the university coffers in addition to his entitlement monthly allowance of Sh. 85,000 from government payroll, payments, which amounts to double pay.
He is also accused of unilaterally authorizing Sh1.2 million for furniture purchase for his residence and a further Sh112,000 for the purchase of a generator without the council’s input. Other charges levelled against the don include irregular dismissal of staff and hiring.