The Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nakuru has temporarily reinstated embattled Egerton University Vice-Chancellor Rose Mwonya in office.

Justice Monica Mbaru, in her ruling Thursday, lifted the 90-day compulsory leave issued to Prof Mwonya, and directed that she resumes her position as the VC.

"The applicant shall return to work as at 8am October 19, and shall assist the Egerton University Council in all matters pertaining to the duties of the accounting officer pending the hearing of the application and further directions," ordered Justice Mbaru.

The court further ordered the university council to ensure that Prof Alexander Kahi, who was appointed the acting VC, resumes his ordinary duties as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic. Prof Mwonya had filed an application on September 19 challenging the decision by the council to send her on compulsory leave.

The letter sending her on leave dated September 7 claimed she was involved in procurement malpractices leading to loss of millions of shillings, and tampered with students' records.

She was also accused of irregular award of scholarships. However, she dismissed the claims and argued that the decision to send her on compulsory leave was unlawful.

The case will be heard on November 14.