Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) has been shut down indefinitely following student unrest sparked by the killing of a student from Technical University of Mombasa (TUM).

Vice Chancellor Romanus Odhiambo said after consultations with various, stakeholders including the Senate, “the decision has been made with utmost concern for the safety and well-being of our students, staff and the community.”

The VC directed all students to immediately vacate the main campus at Nchiru, Tigania West.

The student from TUM was visiting his girlfriend at Meru University when he met his death on Monday evening.

"The deceased was visiting his girlfriend at Meru University when they were attacked as they were walking to the house around 10pm. He was stabbed three times causing him to bleed to death,” Moses Msando, a student recounted.

Running battles

According to the students, the murder suspect escaped on a motorbike which they identified as belonging to the chief of the neighboring Munithu/Ngiine location. While the university is located in Tigania West, the chief is from Imenti East Sub County.

The incident sparked protests with the students pouring into the streets from Monday night and throughout Tuesday. The protesting students barricaded the Meru–Maua road with bonfires.

On Tuesday, the students engaged police in running battles and paralysed traffic for the better part of the day.

On Wednesday, hundreds of protesting students descended on the home of Munithu/Ngiine chief some six kilometers from the university and set the chief’s house on fire.

Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma said the students also vandalized a government motorbike, business stalls and looted a nearby shop.

Unfortunate actions

“No one was reported to have been injured in the incident. It is unfortunate that the chief has lost all his property to the arson attack by rogue students. This is due to an allegation that his motorbike was involved in the attack that left one person dead on Monday night,” Mr Ouma said.

Mr Ouma further termed the actions of the students as unfortunate and retrogressive, since two suspects have since been arrested in connection with the murder.

The County Commissioner said the security committee is the one that recommended closure of the institution.

“We advised the VC to call the Senate and close the institution. We cannot have students marauding in the area causing havoc. This may lead to more security issues,” Mr Ouma said. 

The students are now calling on the government and the university management to fast-track installation of security lights from Kaithe to the University along the Meru-Maua road.

The County commissioner said security has been enhanced around the university, while the arsonists are being pursued.

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