By: Natasha Archary
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will prosecute former Stellenbosch University student Theuns du Toit.
Du Toit, who urinated on the belongings of a black student earlier this year, is facing charges which includes malicious damage to property and crimen injuria.
In July, Stellenbosch University expelled du Toit following an Independent Central Disciplinary Committee finding him guilty breaking the university’s disciplinary code for students.
The university maintained a zero-tolerance approach to racism, discrimination, prejudice and poor conduct.
Now, the NPA has given instructions for the investigation to be finalised before the matter is placed on the roll.
NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that Du Toit would face two charges.
“We will be prosecuting him on malicious damage to property and crimen injuria charges.”
According to the NPA, Babalo Ndwayana, the student who’s belongings were defaced, also wants the matter put behind him.
The incident sparked mass public outcry and many Stellnbosch University students spoke out about the racist culture at the institution.
Disgruntled students staged protests, calling for the immediate expulsion of du Toit after he was initially suspended.
SASCO Western Cape convener, Sifiso Zungu said black students were tired of reporting racial incidents at the university because nothing is done about it.
“Students have told the university that they are not interested in the suspension but want the white student to be an example and be expelled. This will send a strong message to others in the same student residence or in the university space who are still participating in racist acts,” Zungu said.
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