Varsity questions three people over right-wing posters

STELLENBOSCH University has so far identified three people linked to the planning of the “Anglo-Afrikaner Student” event at the university, and what has been described as neo-Nazi posters that were put up around the campus on Tuesday.

The university’s equality unit, supported by staff of the student discipline division‚ is leading the investigation into the event and the putting up of the posters.

“The [equality unit] has received multiple complaints, and subsequently launched an investigation in accordance with the principles set out in the [university’s] policy on unfair discrimination,” the university said yesterday.

“The identified individuals are being interviewed. Based on the investigation and statements by the students, the [equality unit] will make recommendations on further steps to be taken.”

Equality unit head Jaco Greeff Brink said: “The posters and advertised event promoting racial polarisation-superiority, combined with highly offensive references to Nazi propaganda and neo-Nazism, are totally unacceptable.

“Given the values of [the university] and the South African constitution, we cannot condone views‚ events, campaigns or innuendo that undermine our innate equality as human beings.”

The university called on students to allow the investigation to run its course.

“Our staff members in the relevant units are giving priority attention to the matter. The findings and further steps will be communicated to the campus community.”

The university reiterated that it would not allow any event promoting racial superiority to take place.

“Posters put up without the consent of the university, and which advertised a meeting venue that had not been booked‚ were removed [on Tuesday].”

Rector and vice-chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers said on Tuesday: “Not only is the message of the posters totally unacceptable, it is also contrary to our institution’s values.

“There seems to be deliberate mischief-making involved‚ and if that should be the case‚ disciplinary steps will be taken.”