Tensions flared at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Westville campus on Monday when demonstrations over the recently concluded Student Representative Council (SRC) elections turned violent.
Footage shared on social media showed a group of students, some wearing red T-shirts, confronting university protection services officers. The videos captured physical clashes, security personnel restraining individuals and officers intervening as tensions mounted.
Security vehicles and law enforcement officials were also seen on campus as efforts were made to manage the unrest.
The protest comes after student elections held on October 8 and 9, in which the South African Students Congress (SASCO), which is aligned with the ANC, emerged as the dominant organisation across the university’s five campuses.
Supporters of the EFF Youth Command have challenged the election outcome, alleging irregularities in the voting process.
Meanwhile, the university has condemned the disruption of lectures and acts of violence which left three Risk Management Services (RMS) staff members injured.
The university said the disruptions started after 10am when a group of individuals disrupted classes on the campus.
"RMS personnel responded in an attempt to defuse the situation but were met with hostility from those involved. A scuffle subsequently broke out, resulting in injuries to three staff members."
The university added that at least one of the alleged instigators has been identified as a person who is not registered as a UKZN student.
"The University will not speculate on the reasons behind the disruptions but noted that the incident comes just a few days after UKZN successfully conducted its SRC elections, with the results announced on Friday night."
The university added that it will lay criminal charges against the individuals responsible for the violence and may also, where applicable, institute internal disciplinary proceedings in accordance with its statutes, policies and procedures.
Meanwhile, the situation across the university's campuses remains calm and is being monitored closely to safeguard the university community, property and the academic programme.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
IOL News