University of Cape Town & Stellenbosch University express concern on policing in Khayelitsha
The University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University are deeply concerned about the disturbing levels of violence and insecurity in Khayelitsha, which has recently been highlighted by controversies surrounding policing, governance and vigilantism in this area. Consequently, the two universities are of the view that a commission of inquiry into policing and incidents of violence in Khayelitsha is essential.
Both the universities welcome the judgment in the Cape High Court on 14 January 2013 to dismiss the urgent interdict application by the Minister of Police to terminate the commission of inquiry into policing in Khayelitsha (established by the Western Cape government). However, the universities are concerned that existing tensions between the national government and the Western Cape provincial government may further undermine the work of the commission of inquiry.
The University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University, which have been in consultation with those civil society organisations who are working in violence affected areas in Khayelitsha since October 2012, therefore decided to prepare this joint statement. The two universities urge all levels of government to cooperate in order to allow the commission of inquiry to effectively fulfil its mandate.
Statement from the University of Cape Town & Stellenbosch University on the breakdown in relations between the police and the Khayelitsha community
It is deeply troubling that residents of Khayelitsha fear leaving their homes at night as a result of on-going violence and intimidation. Of concern too, is that despite the Khayelitsha community having campaigned for the improvement of the quality of policing services over several years, very little has been done to assuage their concerns. As universities, we are committed to the development of individuals, through knowledge, to their fullest potential. Violence, its effects and the fear of violence are an enormous hindrance to human development. It is for these reasons that we have decided to issue this statement.