S. African president Zuma condemns violence at university campuses

South African President Jacob Zuma on Thursday strongly condemned recent incidents of violence and the destruction of property on several campuses of higher education.

The president strongly appealed to protestors to act with utmost restraint and express their grievances within the confines of the law and Constitution.

This came after student protests turned violent at the North West University, University of Free State, University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town.

Students were protesting for various reasons ranging from accommodation shortage, outsourcing and language policy. In some instances, students destroyed public properties and burned buildings.

Some protests have enhanced racial tensions between black and white students.

At the University of Free State, for example, black students and workers who were disrupting a rugby match were attacked by white students on Monday.

Protest at the University of Pretoria spilled out of campus when protestoors torched a Metrorail train and attacked rail workers.

"The burning of university buildings at a time when we are prioritising the education of our youth is inexplicable and can never be condoned," Zuma said.

No amount of anger should drive students to burn their own university and deny themselves and others education, he said.

Grievances should be handled in a peaceful manner, Zuma added.

The Constitution states that everyone has the right, peacefully and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket and to present petitions, but protestors should adhere to the Constitution when undertaking protest action,the president said.

Zuma also condemned the attacks on train drivers that has been reported by Metrorail.

"The drivers must be left alone to do their work unhindered. If trains arrive late, people should report the matter to the correct channels. The torching of trains and destruction of facilities is completely unacceptable and is a serious criminal act," said Zuma.

He directed the university authorities to attend to the grievances of students.

The government will also play its role, Zuma said.

Zuma directed the law enforcement agencies to work around the clock and not rest until those who engage in criminal activity are brought to book. Endit