The Department of Political Sciences hosted a commemorative exhibition in memory of Prof Willem Kleynhans, who recently passed away well into his nineties.
The exhibition, done by Marie Coetzee, was held at the Unisa Library foyer and Prof Kleynhans’ numerous political documents and political memorabilia, which he collected since the 1940s, were displayed.
Prof Kleynhans was a well-known figure in South African political sciences throughout his life. He worked at Unisa for 40 years, and was the Head of the Department from 1950 to 1966.
He became well-known for his research on South African voter behaviour. In 1974, during Prof Kleynhans’ tenure, the department’s name was changed to the Department of Political Sciences, and Strategic Studies and International Politics were added to the curriculum. Strategic Studies was a first in South Africa. More importantly, Prof Kleynhans advocated for black students to graduate at Unisa. Together with other academics he fought against racial policies and attempted to eradicate racism.
Constitutional Court in Johannesburg.He displayed a placard stating, “The people want to be ruled by their loyal, accountable elected MPs and not by legalised deserter MPs. This is the right thing to do.”
Prof Kleynhans was 81 years old at the time, but age was no deterrent. He stood outside the court most of the day as he believed that the legislation blatantly contradicted the principles of a democracy.
Do they realise that they will be stripped of their representatives? People don’t seem to care anymore.”
Prof Kleynhans cared deeply and his legacy will continue to live on.
By Kgaugelo Pule
