10 June 2026
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) fully supports its affiliate, the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU), in formally lodging a criminal complaint against the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fort Hare (UFH).
The complaint has been lodged with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS), and the Public Protector (PP) regarding what NTEU describes as a profound collapse of governance, accountability and institutional oversight at the University of Fort Hare, allegedly linked directly to the actions of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.
FEDUSA, together with NTEU, has previously raised concerns regarding ongoing governance and administrative scandals at the University of Fort Hare under the leadership of Professor Sakhela Buhlungu since he assumed office on 1 February 2017.
The complaint lodged by NTEU sets out allegations of sustained governance failures, abuse of authority and possible criminal conduct within the highest office of the institution. It further details the appointment and promotion of individuals outside lawful recruitment processes, the circumvention of governance structures, and the approval of substantial financial settlements amounting to millions of rands, as well as remuneration adjustments allegedly made without proper justification. In addition, the complaint alleges that Professor Sakhela Buhlungu selectively applied disciplinary processes to protect allies while targeting whistleblowers.
NTEU further alleges that, for years, workers at the university have endured intimidation and victimisation for raising concerns about governance and administration at the institution. FEDUSA trusts that the law will take its course and that justice will be served in the interests of the public, students and workers. FEDUSA reiterates that public trust in the University must be rebuilt and safeguarded, with transparency, accountability and good governance restored as foundational principles of the institution.
END.