Sifuna Blocked From Accessing JKUAT After Event ‘Cancelled’

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has said he was denied access to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Karen Campus after the institution abruptly cancelled an event he had been invited to attend.

He said he had travelled to the campus following an invitation from the student leadership to attend the inaugural Law, Policy and Governance Forum.

In a statement shared on Thursday, September 17, Sifuna said the university administration cancelled the forum after the delegation arrived.

“We came to JKUAT Karen on the invitation of the student leadership for their Inaugural Law, Policy and Governance forum but the Administration has abruptly ‘cancelled’ the event and denied us access to the institution,” he said.

He questioned the decision, describing the move as unexpected.

“Totally uncalled for,” he added.

Administration Explains Cancellation

The JKUAT administration defended the decision to postpone the forum, citing concerns about possible unrest involving students.

In a statement responding to the situation, the administration urged those who had attended to leave the institution and said the meeting could be rescheduled.

“We don’t want students to cause chaos. If we have postponed the meeting, you understand, you go away, then we invite them again. That is what it is,” the administration said.

The administration further warned that allowing students to cause disruptions could lead to a serious situation.

“If you allow the students to cause problems, it will be a very critical situation. Please, please, please,” it added.

The institution’s heads did not provide further details on what had prompted the postponement or when the Law, Policy and Governance Forum would be held.

Also Read:Nelson Havi Clears Air on Going for Sifuna’s Seat

Sifuna Responds After JKUAT Forum Cancellation

Sifuna has now responded to the cancellation, saying the incident reflects what he described as fear surrounding conversations involving young people and the country’s future.

In a fresh statement on Thursday, September 17, he said a new generation must be willing to stand up for the country and uphold constitutional values.

“Bwana there is just fear everywhere…but a bold new generation must rise up and reclaim their country,” Sifuna said.

He said the incident was part of the reason he continues to advocate for the values contained in the preamble to the Constitution, particularly freedom.

“This is why we continue to preach the values in the preamble of our Constitution, most importantly, freedom,” he added.

Also Read:“He Called Me Crying”: Junet Claims Babu Owino Wants Back to ODM Amid Linda Mwananchi Wrangles

The Senator Thanks Students for Invitation

Sifuna thanked the Governor and the Students Association at the Karen Campus, as well as Graham Mboya, for inviting him to the inaugural Law, Policy and Governance Forum.

“I thank the Governor, Students Association Karen Campus, Graham Mboya, for the invitation,” he said.

He also extended an invitation to the students to visit the Senate, saying he would return the courtesy by hosting them there.

“I’ll be returning the courtesy by inviting you and your fellow students to the Senate tukitoka mashinani so that the conversation can continue. God bless!” Sifuna said.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

Photo of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna while paying a visit to JKUAT-KAREN Campus for an event on September 17
PHOTO/Sifuna/X