Simphiwe Mnyande, the former president of Rhodes University's Student Representative Council (SRC), is set to face a disciplinary hearing on November 9. He has been charged with six disciplinary offences related to his participation in protests over the university's proposed 2027 fee-payment protocol. The protests, which took place on September 29, allegedly disrupted university operations, preventing staff, students, and service providers from accessing or leaving the campus.
The charges against Mnyande include allegedly infringing on the rights of other members of the university community, interfering with safety and security, disrupting university governance, and interfering with teaching, learning, and the maintenance of order. He is also accused of conduct likely to bring the university into disrepute. According to Rhodes University campus protection manager, Dipeso Joel Mabotja, the protest brought academic activities to a virtual standstill, affecting lectures and the end-of-year examinations.
Mnyande claims he has been singled out due to his history in student leadership and previous involvement in student protests. He stated that he did not initiate the protest, but rather participated in it, and questioned why he was the only student facing disciplinary charges. Mnyande's lawyer has requested a postponement of the hearing, citing Mnyande's upcoming trial examinations, but the university has not yet responded to the request.
The university alleges that protesters blocked access to and from campus, disrupting operations. Mabotja referred to video footage and a photograph of Mnyande, published by Grocott's Mail on October 2, as evidence of his alleged involvement. The disciplinary action comes amid wider tension over the financial pressures facing students and the barriers they encounter in accessing and remaining in higher education.
The dispute over Rhodes' proposed fee-payment protocol led to protests, the arrest of 13 students, and criminal charges that were later dismissed by the Makhanda Magistrate's Court. The current proceedings could have serious consequences for Mnyande, including possible exclusion from Rhodes University. The university's notice states that if he is found guilty, it will seek to enforce a suspended exclusion imposed after disciplinary proceedings in April 2025.
Rhodes University sought an interim interdict after the protests, which was granted on September 30 and made final on October 29. Mnyande was cited as the fourth respondent in the application. The court proceedings are separate from the disciplinary hearing and do not establish whether he is guilty of the charges against him. Rhodes University declined to respond to questions, citing that the matter is sub judice.
Mnyande's hearing is scheduled to take place at the Rhodes University legal unit in Makhanda on November 9, subject to the university's response to his lawyer's request for a postponement. The outcome of the hearing will determine the next steps in Mnyande's case.
Key points
- Simphiwe Mnyande faces six disciplinary charges and possible exclusion from Rhodes University.
- The protests were over the university's proposed 2027 fee-payment protocol.
- Mnyande claims he was singled out due to his history in student leadership.
