4th November 2009

Mkhuleko Hlengwa, SADESMO National Spokesperson, today expressed concern following the events that unfolded at the University of Zululand last night - where Sasco members vandalised University property.

Hlengwa said: "What happened last night is totally unacceptable, and SADESMO condemns such behaviour in the strongest possible terms. We will not tolerate a situation whereby institutions of learning are turned into war zones by a select power hungry clique of political infants, who are obviously still stuck in the political stone-age."

The violent activity began soon after Sasco walked out of a meeting - which was meant to chart a way forward - following the electoral deadlock that transpired earlier last month.

"SADESMO is extremely concerned by these violent activities which seek to suppress democracy and its due processes," added Hlengwa

Initial reports suggest that there has been a lot of damage:

- 2 Dining Halls damaged, of which 1 is completely burnt

- A SRC Office stoned and burnt

- Damage inflicted to the sports office

- Damage inflicted to a computer lab

- Damage to the library

- 2 Lecture theatres damaged

- Walter Gcabhashe Chapel damaged

- SADESMO Office damaged

- Office the Dean of Students damaged

Hlengwa added: "Such damage to property is absolutely shocking and we strongly appeal to the law enforcement agencies to bring all the culprits to book."

"Moreover, we are concerned that the exam process has been disrupted and unnecessary trauma has been inflicted on innocent students. Sasco has totally compromised the collective safety of students and that is unacceptable. Such barbaric and lunatic behaviour is disgusting.

"The situation was finally contained in the early hours of this morning, following the speedy intervention of the SADESMO KZN Provincial Chairperson Ntokozo Mafuleka, and we wish to convey our gratitude to the SAPS for restoring order.

"SADESMO wishes to state on record that democracy will not be compromised at UniZUL. It is our solid expectation that elections will take place soon. In the meantime, the 2008/9 SADESMO-led SRC should continue serving students until inclusive, free and fair elections are held," continued Hlengwa.

In conclusion Hlengwa said: "SADESMO will explore every possible avenue that will lead to the speedy resolution of the situation at Ongoye, and importantly we will root out any violent tendencies and behaviour. We maintain that it is only through dialogue that a favourable conclusion to the matter will be achieved. I also wish to commend all SADESMO members for steering away from a violent response.  We appeal to all our members to remain cool, calm and collected during this trying time, and work towards exams and a decisive SADESMO victory in the elections."

SADESMO will be engaging University management on the issues at hand, and we assure all parents and students that SADESMO will ensure that student safety is maintained.

Issued by Sadesmo.

Contact: Mkhuleko "Leko" Hlengwa

National Spokesperson

083 871 2711