Mr. Luzuko Mbana, the principal of Makaula Senior Secondary School, has been suspended following serious allegations of abuse, harassment, and victimization of other teachers. The Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima, confirmed the precautionary suspension.

Additionally, a second teacher has been placed on precautionary suspension due to allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of another teacher at the school. “The investigations are still ongoing, and we hope to finalize them soon,” said Mtima.

This is the second instance within two years involving the principal, Mr. Mbana. Previously, he was arrested for allegedly abusing school children by beating them, causing severe swelling in their hands. Despite these allegations, parents and community members rallied in support of him, requesting the Department to reinstate him.

Mtima clarified the process, stating, “Precautionary suspension is lifted when investigations are finalized. Currently, someone is taking care of principal duties at the school.”

He also noted that the school vehicle has been returned to the department and is now at the Circuit Manager Cluster office in Mount Frere. Regarding the earlier suspension of the principal, Mtima explained that the department had suspended him, investigated the allegations, and subsequently lifted the precautionary suspension, proceeding with disciplinary action.

The news of these suspensions came shortly after the award-winning school returned from a trip to Durban, just a few days before the June holidays began.