The Midlands State University (MSU) administration has drawn sharp criticism from students and educators after suspending Tanaka Sibanda for allegedly recruiting members into the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU).
Critics argue that the university’s actions constitute a direct assault on students’ constitutional rights and signal a growing trend of repression within Zimbabwe’s education sector.
In a suspension letter signed by MSU Vice-Chancellor V.N. Mudzingwa, Sibanda and four other students were accused of conducting an “unsanctioned recruitment drive” and were ordered to immediately vacate the university premises.
The letter prohibited Sibanda from attending lectures, participating in university programs, or entering the campus.
The manner in which the suspension was executed has ignited particular outrage.
Sibanda recounted how university security officers forcibly removed him from his residence in the early hours of the morning.
“The security officers arrived at my room around 4 AM, forced me and my belongings into a waiting van, and drove me to my rural home,” Sibanda stated. “The first thing they did upon entering the room was to confiscate my phone. I requested to call legal counsel, but they refused. They only returned my phone upon arrival at my destination.”
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Association of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) condemned the suspension, characterizing it as part of a broader crackdown on human rights.
“We view the suspension as part of a systemic crackdown on Human Rights Defenders,” ARTUZ stated. “The Chancellor of all Universities appears to be in panic and rage, viciously attacking all perceived enemies.”
ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure also voiced his concerns, warning that Zimbabwe is teetering on the edge of an extreme dictatorship.
“@edmnangagwa is now suspending Students for recruiting members to @Zinasuzim,” he posted on X. “Freedom of Association is protected by the constitution. If we remain passive, we will awaken to a dictatorship worse than North Korea.”
The Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) expressed similar anger, denouncing the decision as an “attack” on student rights.
“This is ridiculous. Students are being suspended for conducting a mere recruitment. What does that mean for the exercise of other student rights at @MidlandsState?” the union declared. “This is an ATTACK—one that should not be tolerated within the tertiary education space. WE DEMAND IMMEDIATE REINSTATEMENT.”
