Fresh questions have emerged over the origins and handling of complaints against University of Cape Town Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela. According to a Rule 53 record filed as part of Moshabela's High Court review proceedings, investigators found that 18 of 20 people they contacted denied lodging complaints against him. The investigation was initially conducted into 31 complaints reported through the Office of the Ombud.
The Council appointed investigators in February to conduct a confidential investigation into the complaints. The mandate was later expanded to include additional allegations and an investigation into the conduct of the Ombud during the process. Investigators managed to trace and contact 20 people out of 27 who were believed to be willing or conditionally willing to participate.
Of the 20 people contacted, 18 denied lodging complaints against Moshabela. The remaining two confirmed having raised complaints but were unwilling to disclose their identities to the Vice-Chancellor or participate in a process where they would be identified. The investigators recommended that disciplinary proceedings not be instituted in relation to the complaints attributed to the original group.
Two people who confirmed making complaints said they had not been asked whether they would be willing to participate in an investigation. Those who denied being complainants also told investigators they had not been asked about their willingness to participate. Council members were divided on whether the matter should be investigated further, resulting in a tied vote.
The Council chair cast the deciding vote in favour of further investigation. However, the Council minutes show that none of the initial 31 complaints could proceed under the terms established for the investigation. Three additional complaints were considered, and one complainant agreed to be identified and formally pursue the matter.
Investigators ultimately recommended that no disciplinary proceedings be instituted against Moshabela in respect of either the initial 31 complaints or the three additional complaints. Council accepted that recommendation. The university has stated that it will not comment on the substance of the latest disclosures as the dispute remains before the courts.
The case has raised concerns about the handling of complaints against the Vice-Chancellor. Former acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation Professor Jeff Murugan had reportedly raised concerns after learning a complaint had allegedly been associated with him. UCT academic Dr Zamambo Mkhize also stated under oath that she was never a complainant in what became known as the Forrest Hill matter.
Key points
- 18 of 20 people contacted deny lodging complaints against UCT Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela.
- Council accepts recommendation not to institute disciplinary proceedings against Moshabela.
- The case remains before the courts, with the university refusing to comment on the details or merits of the case.
