University of Fort Hare Vice-Chancellor survives assassination attempt

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) has confirmed that its Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu survived an attempted assassination, however, his bodyguard was killed. 

The incident happened on Friday night, 6 January 2022 outside the Vice-Chancellor’s residence in Alice, in the Eastern Cape. 

UNIVERSITY OF FORT HARE VC SURVIVES ASSASSINATION

The University’s spokesperson JP Roodt said Mboneli Vesele was killed after bullets were sprayed on the Vice-Chancellor’s university vehicle and his next of kin has been informed and they are offering support. 

Eastern Cape South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana said Professor Buhlungu had just arrived home when unidentified occupants in an unknown vehicle opened fire hitting the driver (Vesele) who was declared dead on scene.

Police have opened a murder case.

It's both frightening and saddening to read about the attacks on leadership at the University of Fort Hare.

This important institution serves many young people and should be strengthened and supported, and not face such attacks on the lives of its leadership.

— Wandile Sihlobo (@WandileSihlobo) January 7, 2023

Roodt said they are also aware of amateur eyewitness images and videos of the Vice-Chancellor’s vehicle that are circulating on social media. 

“Out of respect for Mr Vesele (the deceased) and his family, and to preserve his dignity, we ask that the UFH community refrains from disseminating these visuals,” the spokesperson said. 

Further details regarding the memorial service to honour Vesele will be communicated in due time. 

In August 2022, Special Investigative Unit (SIU) spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said they will investigate allegations of maladministration in the awarding of Honours degrees, mismanagement of funds and sourcing of public servants for study for personal gain at the University of Fort Hare.

The SIU will also be probing four tenders, including contracts for cleaning and gardening services, the leasing of student accommodation, and the appointment of the service provider responsible for the maintenance and repair of air conditioning systems

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