The breach of university autonomy at the University of Nairobi represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between academic freedom and state authority. The police intervention, which occurred during student protests over a 118% fee increase, violated multiple protocols and institutional safeguards. Law enforcement officers entered campus grounds without following established procedures for engagement with university administration, using tear gas and physical force against students in library spaces and lecture halls.
The incident resulted in the arrest of 32 students, including elected student leaders who were specifically targeted. More troublingly, police presence remained on campus for several days afterward, creating an atmosphere of intimidation that disrupted normal academic activities. Faculty members who attempted to intervene or document the events faced threats of disciplinary action.
The university’s response has been complicated by internal divisions, with some administrators appearing to support the police action while others condemn it. This has created a crisis of leadership within the institution and raised questions about the university’s ability to protect its autonomy.