UPDATE: The management of JKUAT announced that it had closed the institution indefinitely.
"In a special meeting of Senate held on Monday, 11th November 2019 at 10:00 am, it was resolved that the University closes until further notice. Consequently, all students are directed to clear from the campus by 11:30 am," read a statement from the AG Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Robert Kinyua.
Here is the statement:
What was planned to be peaceful demonstrations by Jomo Kenyatta University turned into running battles with police on Monday, November 11.
The Jomo Kenyatta University Students' Association Executive Council had issued a notice for peaceful protests outside the institution's Gate B.
"Due to rampant cases of insecurity in Juja and total failure of the relevant authorities to protect comrades and their properties, we call upon all the students to show up outside gate B to evoke a fundamental right of expression through peaceful demonstration and picketing and present our petition to the relevant authorities," the council directed the students.
However, early Monday morning a heavy police presence was noticeable at the institution who repelled the students who tried to hold the protests.
The officers deployed teargas as they chased the students.
The protest was held despite a directive from the university's management calling for calm among the students.
"The first semester of the academic year is almost coming to an end without any major incidence.
"I wish to request everyone to maintain this spirit, in particular, all students are advised to remain calm and continue with academic activities as scheduled," a statement from the AG Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Robert Kinyua read in part.
Here is the video of the students engaging in running battles with the police:
