ANC conduct on Jansen affair is disgraceful

The conduct of the ANC government around the Jonathan Jansen affair is disgraceful. Once again the ruling party shows next to no ability or inclination to recognise the boundaries that limit its influence. It lacks that ability because the ANC has never made the transition from revolutionary movement to political party. It still sees itself as an all-encompassing social force.

Universities should be autonomous institutions. The principles that define academic freedom are not negotiable. And, like the freedom of speech, they require the greatest support when they are most under pressure. Now is such a time.

The ANC government has a right to disagree with Prof Jansen's decision, but it has no right to interfere with it. The Free State University, like every other university in the country, is in charge of its own destiny. It must comply with the laws of the land, like every institution, but, within those parameters, the ANC must stay out of its business.

Its failure to do that is tantamount to a failure to understand the nature of our constitutional democracy.

In particular, the director-general of Higher Education, Mary Metcalfe, issued what amounted to a firm instruction to Jansen by saying that it was "our wish to support you in this process" of "engaging with all constituencies on campus" to review his decision.

If the ANC gets its way on this interventionism, the way will be clear for further interventions, in curricula, admissions, and appointments.

It is essential that universities continue to be guaranteed the right to make decisions without fear of state intervention. A growing and successful economy depends on the innovation and knowledge generated by an independent tertiary education sector.

Statement issued by Wilmot James, MP, Democratic Alliance shadow minister of higher education and training, October 26 2009

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