A tragedy struck at Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha Campus where four students were shot and one died.
While students were striking for their rights, one student lost his life when the residence manager fired at them.
Talking to one of the students, she explained that the protest started because they had an electricity and wifi cut at their residence, including many other complaints that any student would have, but unfortunately, they got evicted and came back. On their return, the students went to the residence’s house manager, unarmed, to seek answers about the protest, and that is when he shot at the students.
After shooting the students, the resident manager, who is allegedly on the run, tried to flee with his wife; that is when the students charged at them, burning their car.
The wife then ran to social media and played victim, claiming that the student who was shot was a hitman who was sent to murder her husband, which is why he fought back.
The BEd third-year student who lost his life was later deregistered from the university, with claims that they did not know the student.
Students are currently continuing with the strike, demanding answers after the University issued a media statement on their school page.
The statement said that Walter Sisulu University (WSU) has condemned the violent unrest that erupted at its Mthatha Campus, resulting in a staff member’s wife being hospitalised, two students sustaining minor injuries, and a third person losing their life. The incident occurred when a group of people, including students, forcefully entered a staff member’s on-campus residence. The cause of the unrest remains unclear, and investigations are underway.
A staff member’s wife was seriously injured and hospitalised after a group of people forcefully entered their on-campus residence. Two students sustained minor injuries, while a third person, not affiliated with the university, lost their life during the incident.
Authorities are working to determine the cause of the unrest and the identity of the deceased individual. WSU Management has condemned the violence and disruption, emphasising the importance of peaceful and responsible communication of grievances through established channels.
The university has taken precautionary measures to ensure staff safety and is committed to transparent engagement with students. Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
The student who spoke to BONA emphasised that the strike will continue until they get the answers and justice is served for Sisonke.
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