Unizulu has been limping from one scandal to the next, including allegations of fake degrees and marks for sex, writes Philani Makhayana.
The embattled vice-chancellor of the University of Zululand, Professor Xoliswa Mtose, placed a full-page newspaper advert on Sunday, accusing this publication of peddling fake news.
As a newspaper with a long and proud history of quality journalism, we cannot allow such a preposterous allegation to go unchallenged.
We would like to point out that The Mercury stands by its story that Mtose is the subject of an investigation by the specialised crime fighting unit – the Hawks – pertaining to allegations of fraud and corruption.
We would also like to reiterate that the Hawks have confirmed to us that Mtose is under investigation.
As a newspaper, the nature of our business compels us to listen to all sources who come to see us.
It is true that most of our sources are disgruntled, have an agenda or an axe to grind. It is for this reason that we check and double check allegations before publication.
In saying Mtose is being investigated by the police, we are not pronouncing on her guilt or innocence, as that is the responsibility of the courts.
While Mtose has accused us of publishing falsehoods, an allegation we take very seriously, she has failed to point out any errors in our story, and we challenge her to do that.
She has also decided to remain mum on the essence of our article – the police probe against her.
We find Mtose’s reaction to our article regrettable, but not surprising.
We have to question the fiscal prudence of spending thousands of rands on a full-page newspaper advert by a university that represents the poorest of the poor.
This, when The Mercury offered the university the right to reply fully to the claims against it.
Using public funds meant for poor students, on what is essentially a self-preservation drive, is tantamount to wasteful expenditure.
Unizulu has been limping from one scandal to the next, including allegations of fake degrees and marks for sex.
We would expect Mtose and her senior management to devote all their energies to fixing the battered image of the university.
As a former student at Unizulu Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande, should in this case override institutional autonomy in the face of overwhelming evidence that the people at the helm of this rural university are in difficulty.