Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was blocked from entering JKUAT Karen Campus on Thursday, September 17, 2026. The incident followed the cancellation of a student forum he was scheduled to address.
JKUAT Forum Cancelled
Sifuna had travelled to the campus after receiving an invitation from the Jomo Kenyatta University Students’ Association (JKUSA).
The students had planned the inaugural Law, Policy and Governance Forum. The event aimed to discuss law, governance and public policy.
However, the university administration cancelled the forum as Sifuna and his delegation arrived. The cancellation left Sifuna and some students outside the campus gates.
University Cites Student Unrest
A university official explained the decision to students gathered outside the gate. According to the official, the administration feared potential student unrest. The official also said the university would invite participants back at a later date.
However, reports claim that Sifuna was later allowed onto the campus. He subsequently held a private meeting with university management.
Sifuna Responds
Speaking outside the campus, Sifuna questioned the decision to cancel the forum. He said students had invited him to discuss governance issues rather than hold a political rally.
Sifuna also criticised what he described as assumptions that politicians only visit universities for political activities.
Later, Sifuna described the incident as part of what he called a “climate of fear” around civic engagement. He also thanked the student leadership for inviting him.
Senate Invitation
Following the incident, Sifuna invited the student leaders to the Senate. He said they could continue their governance conversation there.
Meanwhile, reports did not immediately confirm whether JKUAT would reschedule the cancelled forum. The incident has renewed discussion about student forums, civic engagement and political participation within university spaces.
