Manamela labels Fort Hare protest criminal, damage could hit R500m

MINISTER of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela has slammed the recent violent protests at the University of Fort Hare as “criminal” actions, warning that the academic year must be saved and that learning must resume within a week.

- MTHOBISI NOZULELA

MINISTER of Higher Education Buti Manamela has slammed the recent violent protests at the University of Fort Hare as "criminal". PARLIAMENT OF SOUTH AFRICA Facebook

This comes as reports indicate that the protest at the university caused damage that will cost an estimated R250 million to R500m to repair, with key buildings set alight and academic activities brought to a halt.

The violent protests, which erupted last Monday, have seen students burning tyres, blocking roads, and setting fire to buildings at the Alice Campus.

It has been reported that the students are demanding the immediate resignation of Vice-Chancellor Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, whom they accuse of corruption and of overstaying his tenure following an alleged unlawful extension of his contract beyond retirement age.

They are also calling for the reinstatement of suspended students and workers, permanent job opportunities for local community members, and the replacement of what they describe as “incompetent” management.