Machakos University has been closed for an unspecified period of time due to renewed student unrest, according to Vice Chancellor Lucy Irungu.
In a memo to students, the VC requested that students leave the university immediately, adding that more information would be provided later.
“Due to the evolving insecurity situation around the University and the ongoing students’ demonstrations, a Special Meeting convened on December 7 resolved that in the interest of the Security of Staff and Students, the University be closed with immediate effect,” the VC said in the memo.
The protests began after a student was shot by a police officer during a previous protest and died while being treated at Machakos Level 5 Hospital.
Furthermore, students lit bonfires and blocked the Machakos-Wote Road with large stones, paralyzing transportation.
The officer who shot and seriously injured the Machakos University student was arrested on Tuesday, December 6.
Corporal Michael Mulwa is suspected of shooting Brilliant Anusu on Monday, December 5 afternoon, while the student and his colleagues were protesting the increase in insecurity in the area.
Mulwa is accused of using a live bullet, leaving Anusu in critical condition.
