Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
By Lerato Mpembe
Eastern Cape police have arrested a 54-year-old man in connection with the murder of a Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student, Sisonke Mbolekwa, during a protest at the university’s Mthatha campus. The tragic incident, which unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, 15 April, has sparked outrage and mourning across South Africa, with two other students wounded in the shooting. As the nation heads into the Easter long weekend, the arrest marks a critical step in addressing the violence, though questions about campus safety and student grievances remain.
The shooting occurred amid heightened tensions at WSU, where students were protesting over poor living conditions in campus residences. The university alleges that a staff member’s home was invaded during the unrest, leading to a violent confrontation. With the suspect set to appear in court on 22 April, South Africans are calling for justice and systemic changes to ensure safer learning environments, particularly as the Easter season prompts reflection on peace and community.
A Tragic Protest Turns Deadly
Sisonke Mbolekwa, a Bachelor of Education student, was allegedly shot during a protest at WSU’s Mthatha campus in the early hours of Tuesday morning. “Sisonke Mbolekwa was allegedly shot during a protesting at the university’s Mthatha campus in the early hours of Tuesday morning,” police confirmed. Two other students, Ntando Gqetywa and Lizwa Ndzumo, were wounded in the incident but sustained minor injuries and have since been discharged from hospital.
The protest stemmed from longstanding grievances about the state of student residences, including cracked walls, damaged ceilings, and inadequate facilities. Students reportedly confronted a residence manager, leading to a chaotic altercation. “In a statement, the university said a staff member’s on-campus home was invaded during the students’ protest over unresolved grievances concerning the students’ residences,” WSU noted. The university alleged that “during the violence, the wife of the staff member sustained serious injuries,” and that “the staff member and his young children had to be rescued by the South African Police Service.”
The confrontation escalated when the residence manager allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding Mbolekwa and injuring others. The incident has drawn comparisons to other student protests across South Africa, where issues like accommodation and financial exclusion have sparked unrest at institutions like the University of Cape Town and Cape Peninsula University of Technology in recent years.
Swift Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
Eastern Cape police moved quickly to apprehend the suspect, arresting a 54-year-old man on Thursday, 17 April, in Mthatha. “Police said the suspect was arrested on Thursday, and has been charged with murder, and attempted murder,” authorities confirmed. The police spokesperson in the province, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, emphasized the importance of preserving the case’s integrity. “While this arrest is a critical step, the investigation remains active. No further details would be released at this time to preserve the integrity of the case. Updates will be provided as appropriate,” Gantana said.
The suspect, who will spend the Easter long weekend behind bars, is expected to make his first court appearance on Tuesday, 22 April. “The suspect will spend the Easter long weekend behind bars, as he is expected to make his first appearance in court on the 22nd of April,” police stated. The arrest has been welcomed by students and community leaders, though many are calling for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for Mbolekwa and accountability for the broader issues fueling the protest.
Ministerial Confirmation and Condolences
Higher Education and Training Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane visited WSU’s Mthatha campus on 16 April and confirmed that Mbolekwa was a registered student, dispelling initial university claims to the contrary. “Shooting victim was registered WSU student – Nkabane,” read statements clarifying Mbolekwa’s status. Nkabane, who also met with Mbolekwa’s family in Matatiele’s Tshepisong Village, expressed deep sorrow. “I am heartbroken by this tragic loss. No parent should have to bury their child under such circumstances,” she said.
Nkabane verified that Mbolekwa was funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and had made a minimum initial payment to register for 2025, despite financial challenges. Her visit underscored the government’s commitment to addressing student safety and accommodation issues, though she could not confirm whether the department would assist with funeral costs for the Mbolekwa family, who are struggling financially.
WSU’s Response and Campus Tensions
WSU has faced significant backlash over its handling of the incident, particularly after initially denying Mbolekwa’s student status. The university later acknowledged that Mbolekwa was enrolled for a Bachelor of Education in 2023 and 2024 and had intended to register for 2025. “Precautionary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of other staff members who reside on campus,” WSU’s statement added, reflecting efforts to protect employees amid ongoing unrest.
Tensions escalated on Thursday when security guards clashed with protesting students, with reports of rubber bullets fired to disperse crowds. Students have demanded the removal of the private security company contracted by WSU, citing allegations of heavy-handed tactics in past protests. The university council held an emergency meeting on Wednesday, reviewing student grievances and committing to address residence conditions, including the lack of basic appliances like stoves and laundry equipment.
A candlelight vigil for Mbolekwa was held on Tuesday night, and the Student Representative Council (SRC) announced a campus-wide shutdown, extending protests into Mthatha town. The SRC claims that concerns about the residence manager’s conduct were raised with management previously but ignored, fueling anger over the tragedy.
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