The DA is deeply saddened by the news that a contract employee at the University of the Witwatersrand, Mr Celumusa Ntuli, has passed away. It is alleged that this followed fire extinguishers being released in a residence at the University by protesting students.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Mr Ntuli. May his soul rest in peace.

Mr Ntuli was treated at both the campus health facility as well as a hospital, following the inhalation of the extinguisher fumes. While it has yet to be confirmed, his death is believed to be linked directly to this incident.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) must investigate the cause of Ntuli’s death, so that all the facts surrounding this incident are known. Should wrong-doing be found, the law must be allowed to take its course so that Mr Ntuli’s family and loved ones can receive the closure they need.

We again demand that students protest peacefully and in terms of the law. Violence and intimidation have no place on our campuses and in our constitutional democracy.

The DA will continue to do everything possible to ensure that the funding crisis at our universities is resolved, and that no person is denied an education simply because they are poor.

 

Issued by DA