VIOLENT protest that broke out at Zinqobele High School in Mtunzini could be linked to a power struggle linked to a vacant principal position.
Chaos erupted at the school last Monday when pupils went on the rampage, demanding the removal of the deputy principal.
According to a close source, the current school principal is due for retirement and the deputy is a preferred candidate to take over.
‘Children and other teachers don’t like him because he is not corrupt. He has been working hard to restore the dignity of the school.
‘There are people there who are pushing their own agendas, and using pupils to incite violence,’ said the source.
Is it alleged the deputy is unpopular for his strict adherence to policies and discipline.
‘The school was involved in a scandal last year, and it was among schools suspected of having pupils cheating during their matric exams.
‘Ever since than, the deputy has been trying to improve the school,’ said the source.
Stones were thrown, windows shattered and doors yanked out during the protest.
Police were called to the scene to calm the angry crowd and three pupils were arrested.
‘After their court appearance they were released because the magistrate could not find evidence that linked them to the crime,’ said Mtunzini police spokesperson, Lt Sibusiso Guma.
However a case of malicious damage to property was opened and investigated.
On top of that, the Department of Education has refused to pay for any damages caused during the protest.
‘When pupils destroy, they have to fix it. There are other school who need the department’s help and we can’t always throw money on things that could be avoided,’ said DoE uThungulu District Director David Chonco.
Learning was reported to be back to normal this week, and police patrols are still being conducted to ensure pupils safety.
