CBU closed prematurely

By ALEX NJOVU

COPPERBELT University (CBU) has been closed prematurely following the students’ recent riotous behaviour.
CBU acting registrar Mwala Sheba announced this in a press statement released yesterday in Kitwe.
“Following the special Senate meeting held today (yesterday), the Copperbelt University Senate has resolved to bring forward the end of term II with immediate effect,” Mr Sheba said.
He said the action is aimed at allowing the university management to have enough time to restore calm and bring about a conducive learning environment and ensure the safety of the public.
Mr Sheba said the students would be expected back on campus on August 30, 2009.
“Note that this action does not affect distance learning and all evening and part-time students,” he said.
And Copperbelt police commanding officer Antonneil Mutentwa said police will continue with investigations into the beating of a 76-year-old man by the students despite the institution being closed.
He said police are determined to bring the culprits to book and that nothing will stop them from ensuring that those involved in the burning of the Toyota Surf and the beating of Mr Mamadi Conde are prosecuted.

Mr Mutentwa, however, said the police have not received a report on K200 million belonging to Mr Conde allegedly being stolen.
Copperbelt University Students Union (COBUSU) president Kasonde Mwenda also confirmed the closure of the institution.
Mr Mwenda denied that his members stole K 200 million.
The students were ordered to evacuate the campus premises by 18: 00 hours yesterday. The institution was supposed to close officially on September 4, 2009.
And Mr Conde’s son Issa said his father would be transferred to another clinic for further treatment.
“We are also taking legal action for the loss of the money, the burning of the car and the beating of my father,” Issa said.