The 2025 University of Nairobi Students’ Association (UNSA) elections were once again a major highlight in the university calendar, reflecting the vibrant democratic spirit of the student community. Held on 25th April 2025, at Taifa Hall, students from all faculties participated through the university's innovative E-ballot system. In the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Team Absolute, led by Ian Brandon Aswani, secured a resounding victory, ushering in a fresh era of visionary and inclusive leadership. Known for their strong campaign grounded in advocacy, reform, and student empowerment, Team Absolute captured the confidence of the electorate.

The winning team includes: Ian Brandon Aswani – Chairperson, Joy Wanjiru Wangai- Vice chairperson, Peter Kiarie Ng’ang’a- Secretary General, Nur Salma Abdi- Treasurer, William Ayodo- Sports and Welfare and Chiyedza Chakanyuka- International Rep.

Victory came after a drawn-out 52-day election process, nearly doubling the expected 30 days. During the swearing-in ceremony, Commission Chair Dr. Kenneth Ombongi attributed the delay to six court cases—three filed in Nairobi, and three unexpectedly in Siaya. “We didn’t just manage logistics; we faced litigation,” he noted. “Some questioned why Siaya, not Kisii or Kiambu. Perhaps history will explain. What’s certain is we defended our choices with integrity and upheld the Constitution.”

Vice Chancellor Prof.  Hutchinson congratulated the winning student teams and urged them to embrace responsible leadership. She called on the newly elected leaders to work collaboratively with the university’s management, especially in addressing key student concerns like mental health. “Campaigns are over—now is the time for action,” she said. “We welcome open dialogue and partnership to improve learning resources, campus facilities, student welfare, and inclusive growth. Mental health, in particular, demands our urgent and collective attention.”

Seven teams won uncontested across six electoral colleges, with voter turnout dropping from 45% to 30%. The Commission Chair highlighted varying participation rates: Kenya Science Campus led with 73.7%, and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine followed with 60.8%. However, the Faculty of Arts saw a significant drop to 21%, and Business & Management Science had a turnout of just 24.6%, highlighting challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Watch the Swearing-in Ceremony