WSU slammed for ‘cold’ response after fatal campus shooting during protest

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is under fire after its public response to a fatal shooting during unrest at its Mthatha campus triggered backlash for its tone and lack of compassion.

In a statement posted on Facebook, WSU said the person who died during the violent incident was neither a registered student nor staff member. This remark drew swift criticism from students and members of the public who felt the university’s focus was misplaced and dismissive of the tragedy.

The incident occurred during a protest where demonstrators, including students, allegedly stormed a staff member’s on-campus home. WSU revealed that the staff member’s wife was seriously injured in the attack and is currently receiving medical care, while the staff member and their children were rescued by police.

Two students were also injured in the unrest but have since been discharged from hospital.

Statement triggers outrage online

WSU’s statement has been widely condemned for lacking empathy. Commenters took to social media to call out the university’s tone, suggesting it placed more importance on defending the institution than acknowledging the trauma experienced by students and victims.

“The statement is defensive and lacks basic compassion,” wrote Banda Baza on Facebook. “There’s no acknowledgment of the person who died or the emotional toll on everyone involved.”

Another user, Sive Bhele, questioned the university’s priorities: “I’m shocked that the university chose to justify the actions of a staff member instead of expressing condolences.”

Sinoxolo MaGatyeni Felele added, “Someone died. Many were traumatised. But there’s no mention of grief or support. It’s disappointing.”

The statement has sparked a wave of anger, with over 1,000 comments and more than 600 shares on social media platforms.

Police still investigating circumstances of fatal shooting

Eastern Cape police have launched a preliminary investigation into the events that led to the shooting. Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobantu Gadana said they were initially blocked from entering the scene due to resistance from protesting students.

“We had to negotiate access with SRC leaders,” Gadana told SABC News. “Only then could our officers get to the scene and begin investigating what happened.”

Public order police have since been deployed to monitor the situation and prevent further disruptions, including potential threats by students to block the N2.

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Sourced:Sowetan Live

Picture: LULAMILE FENI