The University of the Witwatersrand has called for calm following widespread outrage over allegations that a Student Representative Council (SRC) member raped a first-year student on campus.
Students gathered at the institution’s Braamfontein campus on Monday night, demanding justice for the victim and calling for the immediate release of CCTV footage from the computer lab where the incident is alleged to have occurred.
Wits University confirmed that the matter was formally reported to its Gender Equity Office (GEO) and that law enforcement has been notified. The accused, reportedly a fourth-year student recently elected to the SRC, has since been suspended and barred from campus pending an internal investigation.
In a statement, the university condemned all forms of gender-based violence (GBV), saying it “reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and socially just environment.”
University spokesperson Shirona Patel urged students to allow due process to unfold, emphasizing that while internal disciplinary procedures are underway, a formal criminal case can only proceed once the complainant officially comes forward.
“We understand the anger and frustration, but we appeal for calm while the necessary investigations take place,” Patel said.
Protesters, many carrying placards demanding accountability, linked the case to the broader national crisis of GBV in South Africa. Several student activists argued that the incident exposes systemic failures in protecting women on campuses and in society at large.
The demonstration comes as the civil society group Women For Change prepares for a national shutdown calling for gender-based violence to be declared a national disaster.
One student protester told Joburg News the case had shaken confidence in student leadership structures.
“It’s heartbreaking that those elected to represent us are now the ones accused of violence. We want justice, not silence,” she said.
Wits management has appealed for respect toward all parties involved, cautioning against speculation or the spread of unverified information online.
Police investigations are ongoing.