Chief Astronomer Suspended
The National Research Foundation, which falls under the Department of Science and Technology recently suspended Professor Phil Charles, Director of the South African Astronomical Observatory, in what seems to be a collision between the secretive bureaucratic government thinking of the DST and the open, free-exchange mindset of the academic community at large. While official statements only refer to “The leaking of confidential information”, unofficial sources say that he had discussed the potential location of the SKA (Square Kilometer Array) head office with astronomers who would be involved, before a decision had been finalised by the NRF.
More details from the Cape Argus, and the DA.
Update (19 Feb): It seems that the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, recently attempted to intervene and defuse the situation, but was told in no uncertain terms to mind her own business. Which implies a lot about the type of thinking at the NRF!