Update on recent legal proceedings

Dear members of the university community

The University of Cape Town (UCT) Council held a special meeting on Saturday, 15 August 2026 to consider a number of matters arising from legal proceedings instituted by the Vice-Chancellor for judicial review of four resolutions adopted at its meeting of 30 May 2026, and further to consider other related matters.

Council received and discussed legal advice concerning the proceedings and the appropriate manner in which the university should respond.

Having done so, Council adopted a number of resolutions intended to ensure that the litigation is dealt with in an orderly, fair and legally appropriate manner. In particular, Council resolved to follow the preliminary processes prescribed by the Rules of Court and to await the Vice-Chancellor’s supplementation of his papers in terms of the rules, before deciding whether or not to oppose the review proceedings. Council also confirmed its willingness to participate in mediation in an effort to resolve the dispute; and, further, it resolved to suspend the implementation of the four resolutions which the Vice-Chancellor has impugned, pending the final determination of the judicial review proceedings by the High Court.

Council recognises the considerable public and university community interest in these matters. At the same time, it has a responsibility to respect the integrity of ongoing legal proceedings; respect the rights of all persons, UCT officers and institutions concerned, including the office of the Ombud; and, within the bounds of the law, protect the confidentiality attached to certain matters before that office and the Council.

Council remains committed to acting in the best interests of UCT and to discharging its governance responsibilities in accordance with the law, the principles of fairness and accountability, and the values of the university.

Council will communicate further when it is appropriate to do so.

Sincerely

Norman Arendse (SC)
Chair of UCT Council

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements