GZU Suspends Students Over WhatsApp Group Leadership in Crackdown on Activism
MASHAVA – Great Zimbabwe University has suspended two students for two semesters after their involvement as administrators in a WhatsApp group advocating for improved service delivery on campus.
The decision has sparked concerns over student rights and freedom of expression in Zimbabwean universities.
Student suspensions have become increasingly common, with Midlands State University and Great Zimbabwe University accused of using disciplinary action to suppress activism.
Observers argue that universities should engage students in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to punitive measures.
One of the suspended students, Linos Munogwenyi, believes the university’s decision is a deliberate attempt to silence student voices.
He expressed his frustration, saying that despite the suspension, their movement for better conditions would not be stopped.
“Great Zimbabwe University has suspended me with immediate effect for two semesters over cooked-up charges.
“The idea is to silence the voices of students in the nation, but we will continue,” Munogwenyi told ZWnews.
This incident is not isolated. On September 15, 2023, five students at Midlands State University were suspended for allegedly conducting an unsanctioned recruitment drive for a student union, further raising concerns about student activism.
Another case on October 10, 2024, involved Tanaka Sibanda, who was suspended for recruiting members into the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU).
Reports indicate that university security officers forcibly removed Sibanda from his residence, confiscated his phone, and blocked him from seeking legal assistance.
At Great Zimbabwe University, 21 students were suspended on November 20, 2024, after exposing alleged corruption involving a university dean.
The students had leaked documents showing that a US$1,000 donation meant for prison inmates had been misappropriated.
Their inquiries led to accusations of inciting violent protests, resulting in five-year suspensions.
These incidents highlight a growing trend of disciplinary actions against student activists in Zimbabwean universities.
