09/10/2025
SAYC BCM Press Statement ‼️
SUBJECT: CONDEMNATION OF POLICE BRUTALITY AND INSTITUTIONAL SILENCE AT UNIVERSTY OF FORT HARE (UFH) EAST LONDON CAMPUS UNREST
The South African Youth Council (SAYC) in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM) is deeply shocked and saddened by the recent acts of violence witnessed at the University of Fort Hare's East London Campus, where law enforcement officers were seen brutalising students in what can only be described as a gross abuse of power.
This brutality against students or rather young people merely raising their voices in pursuit of justice and dignity reflects a deeply disturbing pattern of institutional failure.
SUDDEN EVACUATION FROM UNIVERSITY PREMISES
It has been noted that in the late hours of the 8th of October 2025, the Institution issued out a notice compelling all students to vacate the University residences no later than 17:00 on the 9th of October 2025. We condemn this short notice evacuation plan disguised as a "shutdown" as it will disadvantage those travelling far with no monetary means and will lead to many unwanted instances such as students sleeping on the streets as there are no other accommodation avenues to turn to.
BUILDINGS ON FIRE
We have witnessed through social media, the criminal acts of violence committed against the historical infrastructure of the UFH by way of arson. We strongly condemn those who are masquerading as students who have seen an opportunity to exploit this situation to advance their own ulterior motives. Furthermore, we call for an intense investigation into the causes of these charred buildings in the Institution.
ONGOING UNREST IN EAST LONDON CAMPUS
We moreover condemn the deafening silence and inaction from the University Council. Up to this point, no concrete contingency plan has been communicated to address or de-escalate the situation and the grievances by those that are disgruntled. The management's refusal to engage with the legitimate and united demands of the student body only serves to deepen the crisis. We therefore call on all member organisations and youth formations to remain focused, vigilant, and not allow themselves to be manipulated by external forces with no genuine interest in the well-being of the above-mentioned institution.
The scenes currently unfolding are not reflective of the spirit, values and identity of the true student community of Fort Hare. It is disturbing to witness the legacy and alma mater of such historic significance being reduced to a battlefield. We refuse to believe that this destruction is being led by students who value and respect the heritage of the University of Fort Hare.
SAYC BCM POSITION
SAYC BCM stands in unwavering solidarity with the students and calls for immediate intervention by relevant higher education bodies, the Ministry of Higher Education, and human rights organisations.
We demand the following:
-Revocation of the notice to vacate residences on 9 October 2025 at 17:00 to a later date convenient for all students.
-An independent investigation into the use of police and armed force on campus.
-Immediate cessation of police brutality and withdrawal of armed forces from university grounds.
-A transparent and inclusive dialogue between student leadership and university management to reach a consensus.
-Protective measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Fort Hare is a cornerstone of South Africa's intellectual and liberation heritage. We will not stand by while it is reduced to rubble physically or morally.
Issued by South African Youth Council Buffalo City Municipality
For media enquiries:
SAYC BCM Spokesperson
Londeka Ngcungama
[email protected]
0631304359
