Cape Town – The Jafta Commission of Inquiry is investigating deadly and violent incidents at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), with victims’ families hoping that the process will finally bring them closure.
The commission is probing incidents that have caused serious injury and death among students, including the fatal shooting of Sisonke Mbolekwa at WSU’s Mthatha campus earlier in 2025.
Families have expressed confidence in the inquiry’s work. As stated by Ncedo Kolanisi, speaking on behalf of the families: “I would say that the commission is steering in the right direction. A lot has been unearthed within the internal squabbles that have led to the fatal shooting of Sisonke Mbolekwa and completely destroying Sethu Ndamase’s life,” reported EWN.
Witnesses heard by the commission include students, university employees, and law enforcement, who have given testimony about the violence, protests, and the brutality experienced by those involved.
The United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO), based in the Eastern Cape, welcomed the formation of the Jafta Commission but as reported by their statement, called for the inquiry’s mandate to be broader.
They believe that the commission must not only look at violence, but also address underlying issues, such as financial exclusion of students, poor living conditions, academic exclusion, and lack of psychosocial support.
UDESMO branch chairperson Manyano Njikela stated: “We trust the Commission will carry out its work independently and thoroughly.” He added that student safety, governance, and allegations of violence are all areas that the university and commission should examine.
Families hope the final report will lead not only to truth and accountability but also lasting change in how WSU handles protest, student grievances, and campus safety.
As reported by Eyewitness News, they want justice in the case of Mbolekwa’s death and for the life of Sethu Ndamase, whose life has been severely damaged by the violence.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
