EAST LONDON - University of Fort Hare vice-chancellor Sakhela Buhlungu has resigned but the university’s Council says he cannot leave immediately.
Buhlungu submitted his resignation on Monday shortly before he was due to begin presenting his defence at a disciplinary hearing.
He is facing charges including gross misconduct, insubordination and bringing the institution into disrepute.
READ | University of Fort Hare students want vice-chancellor out
Among the allegations against him is that he unlawfully appointed two executive directors.
Buhlungu wants his resignation to take effect immediately. However, the University Council says his contract requires him to serve a notice period.
The Council says the disciplinary process may therefore continue during that notice period.
"Although Professor Buhlungu has chosen to resign while the disciplinary process is still underway, his resignation does not resolve the allegations against him," the university's Council said in a communiqué.
It has also rejected claims that the disciplinary proceedings were predetermined or unfair, saying those allegations remain contested.
Read more: Fort Hare VC Buhlungu placed on precautionary suspension