Rhodes will move... Eventually

Pictured is the Rhodes statue prior to a debate on the Rhodes Statue and racialism in UCT. Picture: David Ritchie

Pictured is the Rhodes statue prior to a debate on the Rhodes Statue and racialism in UCT. Picture: David Ritchie

Published Mar 29, 2015

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Rhodes Must Fall campaigners will likely have to wait longer than they had expected for the statue of Cecil John Rhodes to be removed from UCT.

On Friday, student protesters leading the campaign to remove the statute celebrated the university senate’s vote supporting their cause.

The university’s council is expected to back the senate’s vote when it meets on April 8.

But government bureaucracy required to remove the statue will likely test the protesters’ patience.

National Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has cautioned that the statue’s removal should adhere to the National Heritage Resources Act.

He said this “stipulates particular technical as well as consultative processes that would be followed in the case of a removal and or relocation of a statue”.

Mthethwa’s spokesman, Sandile Memela, said the UCT senate’s decision was a “significant and most welcome step in the right direction”.

“It sends a resounding message that acknowledges the sensitivities around colonial symbols and the urgent need for all of us to embrace a transformative agenda.

“The next best thing will be to do the paperwork that gives legitimacy to the process. We believe the university authorities and students understand how to take the process forward.”

Velizwa Baduza, newly appointed chief executive of the South African Heritage Resources Agency, said she understood the urgency of the Rhodes Must Fall campaign.

She said students needed to understand that the process could not be sidestepped.

“Due notice is given and a 30-day consultation period takes place,” said Baduza.

UCT spokeswoman Pat Lucas said the university had started the process to ensure compliance.

Sunday Argus

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