Particle.news
Download on the App Store
20 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

After Arson, Fort Hare University Shuts Campus as Court Bars 10 Students From Protests

Authorities have turned to mediation to calm the campus.

University of Fort Hare is in a state of crisis after student protests against Vice-Chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu, calling for him to step down. (Photo: Luthando Sani)
Image
Image
Picture: Supplied / University of Fort Hare

Overview

  • The university suspended operations and ordered students to vacate residences after declaring the Alice campus unsafe, setting a 5pm Thursday deadline.
  • Police say the administration block, student centre, auditorium and HIV centre were set alight, rubber bullets were used to disperse crowds, and security guards allegedly held hostage were rescued.
  • A Bhisho High Court interim interdict names 10 students and bars disruptive protest actions, with a return date set for 21 October.
  • Eight arrested students appeared in the Alice Magistrate’s Court and were released on warning, with a further appearance scheduled for 26 November.
  • Protests escalated over plans for an interim SRC and calls for Vice‑Chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu to resign, as officials estimate R250m–R500m in damage and deploy national and provincial mediation teams led by Prof Ahmed Bawa and envoys convened by Premier Oscar Mabuyane.