Fort Hare Students Demand Vice-Chancellor’s Resignation Amid Violent Protests

Tensions remain high at the University of Fort Hare’s Alice Campus after violent student protests left two students hospitalized and an administrative building set ablaze.

According to student leaders, the unrest stems from what they describe as years of suppression by university management. They accuse the institution’s leadership of ignoring repeated concerns raised through formal channels.

Student leader Asonele Magwaxaza said the protests reflect deep frustration among students and other university stakeholders.
“Students are demanding that the Vice-Chancellor step down. This is not just a student movement it involves other stakeholders who share our concerns,” Magwaxaza stated.

He further accused management of arrogance and failure to respond to numerous written appeals.
“Students are angry and feel silenced. Our governance has been undermined despite following proper procedures,” he said.

Meanwhile, police have been deployed to restore calm, but the situation at the campus remains volatile. University authorities have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the incident.