Rhodes University Student Excluded for Hate Speech

In August 2022, protesters boycotted Arthur Vamva’s election speech during Rhodes University’s Student Representative Council (SRC) elections. The uproar was caused by the resurfacing of social media interactions in which Mr. Vamva expressed views against homosexuality. The university has since excluded Mr. Vamva for hate speech. He is challenging the decision through legal action. 

Mr. Vamva’s campaign for the 2023 SRC presidency ended abruptly after a leaked Facebook Messenger exchange showed him referring to homosexuality as “filthy” and “evil”.

Mr Vamva received extensive backlash and threats both in person and online. While Rhodes University maintains that it does not tolerate queerphobia, many students expressed disappointment at what they saw as the institution’s slow response prior to the public outcry. Among the protesters was student Matthew Bedser, who says he is still angered by the former candidate’s behaviour and the university’s handling of the matter.

“As a gay man, I feel let down by the university. I don’t think people understand how dangerous those [Mr Vamva’s] words are and how harmful homophobia is. Things like this can incite violence. It’s a nice sentiment for the university to say that they support the community, but where are they when we actually need them? Why do we have to scream and shout.. or die to be heard?”

Mr Vamva, however, maintains that he has been mistreated. He expressed no regret in the interview and reaffirmed his views, identifying as a “conservative, traditional Christian”. 

“Today, anything can be considered hate speech and worthy of cancel culture. When people disrespect my religion or claim that God is not real, it is not considered hate speech. I do not hate gay people. Many gay people read my manifesto and voted for me. I have simply expressed my opinion. I have the right of free speech in this democracy”.

Mr Vamva said he wished more people had read his manifesto and focused on the positive changes he hoped to bring to the university. Rhodes University did not respond to requests for comment. Mr Vamva maintains that he hopes justice will prevail in his ongoing case against the institution.