Kenyan universities have lost an outspoken don and trade unionist following the death of Muga K’Olale at Matata Nursing Home in Oyugis town.
K’Olale who was one of the founders of the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) died on Saturday evening at the hospital while undergoing treatment.
He became the chairman of UASU when he was lecturing at the University of Nairobi (UoN).
At the time of his death, K’Olale had left the chairmanship position. He was replaced with Grace Nyongesa of Kisii University in July 2021.
According to the hospital director John Malago, the university don died about seven days after he was admitted at the health facility.
“He came to the hospital for treatment about one week ago,” Malago said.
The university don was admitted in the hospital on March 21, 2023.
The hospital matron Margaret Orimba said the don died after his condition worsened.
Media commentator Samuel Owida described K’Olale as staunch unionist who believed in the welfare of university employees.
“I would compare K’Olale with the former Secretary General of Kenya National Union of Teachers Deya Adongo. The two had the interest of workers at heart,” Owida said.
The body was transferred to the hospital mortuary in Oyugis town.
