SYDNEY MUBAIWA
GWERU-The Midlands State University (MSU) has suspended five ZINASU students on allegations of gross misconduct after they engaged in a recruitment process on behalf of the union.
The suspension was confirmed in a letter addressed to one of the union leaders Tanaka Mhuka and was signed by MSU Vice Chancellor Professor Victor Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa.
The suspended are Takunda Mhuka, Nester Moyo, Tanaka J Sibanda, Fanuel Gona and Keegan Mathe.
“Please be advised that in terms of the powers vested in me by Section 8 (3) (d) of the Midlands State University Act Chapter 25:21. I hereby suspend you from the University on allegations of misconduct where it is alleged that you and fellow students, Nester Moyo ,Tanaka J Sibanda, Fanuel Gona and Keegan Mathe conducted an unsanctioned recruitment drive of members of your union in contravention of Section 12:30.1 as read with Section 3.6 of the MSU Rules of Student Conduct and Discipline, Ordinance 2 of 2014.
“The suspension is with immediate effect and is not a punishment but intended to allow the institution to examine the act of misconduct being levelled against you and determine the most appropriate action to take,” reads part of the letter.
The suspended students were ordered to vacate the university premises immediately after receiving the letters.
“You are now ordered to vacate the university premises upon receipt of this letter. You shall not attend any lectures, participate in any university programmes or appear on the university campus for any reason whatsoever at any time of the day or night.
“Any violation of this part of this suspension letter will constitute a breach of the regulations which will attract further charges,” reads the letter.
Posting on X, ZINASU condemned the suspension and promised to take a legal route.
“Midlands State University has just suspended our student leaders for engaging in a recruitment process on behalf of the union. This outrageous gesture won’t go unchallenged, lawyers have been engaged. MSU cannot tread on students dignity. This is wrong,” reads the post.
The union said suspension of student leaders for organising a student union recruitment exercise was a blatant attack on freedom of association and student activism.
The suspension has sparked criticism with some students expressing concerns over what they perceive as a crackdown on student activism. Others however, believe that rules must be followed to maintain order within the learning institution.
