MINISTER NZIMANDE OUTRAGED BY THE MURDER OF MBONELI VESELE – THE PROTECTOR TO THE UNIVERSITY OF FORT HARE VICE CHANCELLOR
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, is outraged and strongly condemns the murder of Mr Mboneli Vesele, the Executive Protection Officer to the University of Fort Hare, Vice Chancellor, Prof Sakhele Buhlungu.
The Minister passes his heartfelt condolences to the Vesele Family, Friends and the University of Fort Hare.
Although investigations are at an early stage, all indications are that the assailant/s was/were targeting Prof Buhlungu, who at the time of the incident was not in the car.
“I outrightly condemn this barbaric murder of Mr Vesele and the attempt on the life of Prof Buhlungu. This attack is not only an attack on the University of Fort Hare but also an attack on the entire Post School Education and Training sector,” said Minister Nzimande.
Following this gruesome murder, Minister Nzimande appeals for calm, whilst investigations are underway. The Minister has had discussions with the Minister of Police for the swift investigation and arrest of the assailants.
“I also encourage all the Vice Chancellors (VC) and TVET College Principals to engage with my Department on all security related issues to enable us to engage with the Cabinet Security Cluster, particularly on security concerns that have an impact on the institutions’ ability to perform their duties” said Minister Nzimande.
Minister Nzimande has directed Higher Health, an agency of the Department responsible to wellness, to work with the University to provide psycho-social support to the Vesele family and to all affected university employees, especially those who have been working very closely with the deceased.
The Minister is currently engaging with all the stakeholders and has written a letter to the University of Fort Hare Council to engage on how best to deal with the situation.
