Charges dropped against Magxotwa

STUDENT leaders at the Cape Town campus of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) claimed victory after the institution withdrew charges of harassment and intimidation against SRC chairperson Ayakha Magxotwa.

He had faced a disciplinary hearing and possible expulsion from the university, and said he was relieved that the charges were dropped. Magxotwa said case against him stemmed from an incident in February.

On Monday, the university management met student representatives from various parties regarding the charges against Magxotwa.

With the support and backing from students and party leaders, Magxotwa addressed the issue.

CPUT spokesperson Lauren Kansley confirmed the case against Magxotwa had been dropped after a series of meetings between students and staff. Instead of meting out punishment, she said the university affirmed a reconciliatory move when it came to matters of discipline.

Classes were also suspended on Monday due to protesting students disrupting lectures and causing chaos on campus. A number of students expressed disappointment, saying the meeting of students had derailed their preparations for examinations.

Acting vice-chancellor Chris Nhlapo appealed to students that examinations were around the corner and the university could not afford another standstill.

CPUT confirmed that Nhlapo would continue to meet student bodies to prevent further disruptions, harassment and intimidation of staff by students.

A member of the SRC who did not want to be named said: “Acting vicechancellor handed over the letter. Students that were present were happy with the outcome, as they were in full support of the chairperson.”

He said the way forward was that all involved parties should go through a reconciliation process.

“Classes are continuing as normal,” an SRC member said.