Graffitti protesters target UCT over Marikana links

An anonymous graffiti grouping called Tokolos Stencil Collective has taken credit for a Marikana Day protest action at the University of Cape Town and on the N2 highway in the city at the weekend.

In a Facebook post earlier today‚ the group wrote: “#‎UCTHasBloodOnItsHands‬”.

Referring to commemorations of the third anniversary of the Marikana shootings on August 16‚ 2012‚ the group said: “Over the past few months‚ we have been inspired by the persistent struggle of the ‪#‎RhodesMustFall‬ movement at UCT. We did our research and found out a few little known facts about UCT's link to the Marikana Massacre:

1. Judge Farlam is on the UCT Council.

2. UCT has been investing in Lonmin for several years since the massacre.

3. UCT therefore has blood on its hands.

4. Therefore Farlam has a conflict of interest.

“UCT you are not an Island. Even though we have not been fortunate enough to attend your #1 ranked university‚ you actions still affect us and you cannot hide from us.”

UCT today condemned the graffiti on campus.

It said in a statement: “UCT condemns the use of vandalism as an irresponsible and inappropriate method of protest that shows no respect for the students and staff of the UCT community. While the university encourages and supports the responsible exercise of freedom of expression‚ we do not condone defacing buildings and memorials”.

UCT confirmed that it is invested in the resources sector‚ including in Lonmin. “All investment falls within the university's investment policy managed by the Joint Investment Committee‚” it added.

UCT also confirmed that Justice Ian Farlam is a member of Council and noted‚ “he is not involved with the Joint Investment Committee or UCT investment decisions”.

Some students questioned the tactics‚ tweeting about their concerns. These included: “Why could they not put up posters? Can people not take pride in the upkeep of our uni? Our fathers must clean up now”‚ and “The point has been made. But now what will be done about the paint all over campus?”

RDM News Wire.