Cabinet Secretary nominee for education Prof George Magoha was forced to explain what led to the exit of Interior CS Fred Matiang’i from the University of Nairobi while he (Magoha) served as University Chancellor.
The matter was raised by Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa who noted that Matiang’i was Magoha’s first reference despite the fact that the CS is reported to have been sacked from UoN during the Professor’s tenure.
“I notice that Matiang’i is your first reference and he served under you at the University of Nairobi and later became your boss while you were at Knec and he was Education CS.
One, could you shed light on the circumstances that led to Matiang’i’s exiting the UoN faculty. Two, What are you interpersonal relations given that he will now be your supervisor as he Chairs the Cabinet Committee on national government coordination?” Ichung’wa posed.
The Education CS nominee appeared surprised by the question, noting that he had a policy not to discuss people.
“I have a strict policy not to discuss people but since it is Parliament, I will comment and I hope the Speaker will protect me,” he stated.
He, however, explained that he was not aware of the circumstances that led to Matiang’i’s sacking but noted the two were close friends.
“I as the Vice Chancellor at the University of Nairobi, I empowered MP and delegated. I was in charge of policy and I gave those under me to do everything possible to make sure it was followed by all. If you ask me, I may not be aware why Matiang’i was sacked but I know those under me had all the powers to make decisions against anyone who went against the official police,” Magoha stated, requesting not to comment further on the matter.