Three criminal cases have been opened as the University of Pretoria (UP) and its National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu)-affiliated staff stalemate rages on.
The disagreement between the two parties revolves around wage increases, with staff demanding a 7% raise while UP offers 4%. As tensions escalate, the situation has resulted in clashes between the police and protesters, leading to arrests and investigations.
On Monday, a scuffle broke out at the Hatfield campus, where police had to intervene by using stun grenades, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
This incident occurred just a week after first-year students had begun their tertiary learning experience, only to be obstructed and denied access to the campus. As a result, a case of public violence was opened, and one suspect was arrested.
The following day, Nehawu organised a march from University Road to the Brooklyn Police Station in the east of Pretoria. Two more cases of assault were opened by victims, but no arrests have been made yet, according to Gauteng police spokesperson Dimaktso Nevhulwi.
Nehawu Tshwane chairperson Ivan Ramogale emphasized the need for the victims, who had suffered injuries, to be part of the legal process and provide statements.
Former SRC secretary general and student activist Tarik Lalla expressed his concern over the police’s use of violence against students who were in solidarity with the UP-affiliated staff during the protest.
Lalla questioned the university’s decision to allow firearms on campus, especially when students had joined the strike action. He criticised the university for not prioritizing the safety and well-being of its students and workers.
According to Lalla, there were also students present when the police used tear gas and rubber bullets. He claimed that shots were fired even as people were already dispersing. Lalla argued that the university’s actions demonstrated a lack of consideration for the interests of students and workers alike.
He highlighted the financial struggles faced by students, who were unable to afford the fees, and expressed solidarity with the workers’ demands for a wage increase.
In response to the incidents, UP confirmed that tear gas and rubber bullets were used by the police to disperse the striking workers. The university acknowledged reports of excessive force and stated that it would investigate the matter.
UP spokesperson Sashlin Girraj emphasised the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all individuals on campus.
Girraj explained that an interdict had been obtained against the striking workers, imposing restrictions on activities that could disrupt the university’s operations. The interdict prohibits any unlawful interference with university operations and bans any violent or unlawful conduct in pursuit of wage demands.
The university emphasised its commitment to resolving labour disputes through constructive dialogue and within the framework of the law.
However, Girraj also highlighted the university’s financial challenges, which prevent immediate compliance with the workers’ demands. He mentioned factors such as modest income growth, high staff costs, high student debt, and operational expenses contributing to the decision to manage the salary bill.
Girraj encouraged Nehawu to collaborate closely with university management in implementing a financial sustainability plan to ensure the institution’s long-term stability.
The university expressed optimism that through constructive cooperation, it could continue to provide quality education and support to its community while navigating the current labour landscape.
