Lamola considering SIU request to amend scope of investigation into UFH
The SIU has been looking into the University of Fort Hare since 2022 when allegations emerged that degrees were unduly awarded to influential politicians.
FILE: One of the entrances to the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. Picture: Facebook
CAPE TOWN - Justice Minister Ronald Lamola has told Parliament that he’s still considering a request to amend the scope of an investigation into fraudulent degrees at the troubled University of Fort Hare.
Lamola told Parliament that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) requested his department almost a year ago.
The SIU has been looking into the University of Fort Hare since 2022 when allegations emerged that degrees were unduly awarded to influential politicians.
Lamola said the request from the SIU to amend the scope of its probe into the university was submitted in July 2023.
Lamola was responding to a question from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)’s Mzwanele Manyi who had asked whether his department intends to amend the SIU proclamation, to enable the investigation of alleged fraudulent degrees conferred by the institution.
Lamola says the motive to amend the proclamation is still being processed by his department, but he is yet to say when it will be finalised.
He said the motivation relates to “allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the University of Fort Hare in the awarding of degrees, among others”.
Lamola’s reply comes soon after 15 people were arrested in connection with alleged fraud, corruption and racketeering at the university.