DA launches monitor to push for firing of Gauteng Health MEC

19 September 2016

I have launched today a "Mahlangu Monitor" that will record the days that Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu still remains in her job after she admitted that 36 psychiatric patients had died in unsuitable NGOs where they were sent after the cancellation of the contract with Lifehealthcare Esidimeni.

Mahlangu disclosed this information in an oral reply to my questions in the Gauteng Legislature last week on Tuesday 13 September.

It is now SIX DAYS and Mahlangu has not resigned or been fired by Premier David Makhura.

The Mahlangu Monitor can be found at #MahlanguMustGo on Twitter and will be updated every day on my @JackBloomDA Twitter account.

Mahlangu bears the prime responsibility for the deaths as she stubbornly persisted with a rushed transfer of patients to NGOs despite many warnings that they did not have the capacity to look after them.

This is yet another example of ANC arrogance and lack of feeling for those who suffer from poor governance.

Every day that Mahlangu remains in office is an insult to those who died and their relatives who expect justice and accountability in this matter.

While the investigations under way will establish negligence at other levels, it is abundantly clear that Mahlangu shoulders the bulk of the blame for this tragedy that has been compared to the Marikana deaths.

Premier David Makhura's professed commitment to accountability cannot be taken seriously until he fires Mahlangu and replaces her with someone who ensures that the health department treats all patients with dignity and decency.

Issued by Jack Bloom, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, 19 September 2016