Gift Ostallos Siziba has issued a strong condemnation of the recent suspension of six student leaders by the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), calling the move a “glaring manifestation of administrative injustice and a blatant affront to academic freedom.”
Siziba accused the university’s administration of succumbing to partisan politics and fascist tendencies, stating that the institution has become “a caricature of ineptitude and an unmistakable extension of ZANU-PF’s authoritarian grip.”
“The Constitution of Zimbabwe unequivocally guarantees the freedom to research, assembly, and expression. The suspension of these students is a clear violation of those rights,” Siziba said.
He also challenged the Vice Chancellor’s sweeping disciplinary powers, arguing that they undermine Section 69 of the Constitution, which ensures the right to a fair hearing.
Calling for the immediate reinstatement of the suspended students, Siziba declared solidarity with ZINASU and lecturers suffering from unpaid salaries and repression.
“Their struggle is our struggle. We will not stand idly by as the future of our youth is compromised,” he concluded.
