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EDWIN NAIDU
THE leader of the fledgling political party Rise Mzansi has called for the resignation of Eastern Cape Premier Mabuyane in light of a fraudulent degree scandal. Rise Mzansi’s national leader, Songezo Zibi, expressed his dismay at the premier’s actions, stating that such behavior is unacceptable for a senior public representative.
Zibi said that a premier should lead by example, particularly in a province with a history of persistent public sector corruption. He argued that Mabuyane’s involvement in a shameful act of corruption makes him unfit to lead the fight against corruption.
According to News24, Mabuyane has been accused of fraudulently obtaining a Master’s degree at the University of Fort Hare, which was later upgraded to a PhD candidacy without meeting the minimum requirements.
Zibi, a former journalist and communications professional, highlighted the ongoing trauma and destabilization at the University of Fort Hare due to acts of violence and assassination targeting Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu and university staff committed to cleaning up the institution.
Zibi further criticized the silence of the ANC at the national and provincial level, considering it an abdication of their responsibility as a governing party.
He urged the people of the Eastern Cape not to forget this moment, where the actions of powerful individuals like Mabuyane undermine the hard work and adherence to rules shown by their diligent children in pursuing qualifications.
In response to the mounting pressure on Mabuyane, ActionSA, led by former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba, also called for his resignation.
The party argued that the allegations of degree fraud reinforced their belief that Mabuyane is unfit to serve as Premier.
They highlighted Mabuyane’s self-serving actions instead of prioritizing service delivery and addressing the challenges faced by the poorest in the province, such as high unemployment and inadequate service delivery.
ActionSA had previously marched to the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier in April to draw attention to the state of the province under Mabuyane’s leadership. They asserted that the degree fraud scandal was another failure added to the list since his appointment.
The University of Fort Hare, renowned for its iconic struggle heroes and acclaimed African leaders among its alumni, has also been plagued by corruption, maladministration, and violent incidents, including assassination attempts on its vice chancellor and deputy.
ActionSA reiterated their belief that honourable leadership is based on ethical conduct, integrity, and accountability. Therefore, they called on Premier Mabuyane to do the right thing and resign from his position.
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