Tomorrow marks the sombre four-year anniversary of the assassination of Babita Deokaran, a senior official in the Gauteng Health Department who was murdered after exposing massive corruption, particularly in COVID-19 related contracts. Her death continues to cast a long shadow, raising urgent questions about the safety of whistleblowers and the pace of justice in South Africa.
Deokaran was shot and killed in her car on August 23, 2021, in what was later revealed to be a targeted hit meant to silence her. As a key witness and whistleblower, she had provided crucial evidence of alleged fraud involving hundreds of millions of rands intended for pandemic relief.
In an emotional interview, the family’s representative, Ali Gule, described the ongoing pain and frustration felt by Deokaran’s loved ones. “The family of Babita is not doing very well because there has been no justice for her,” Gule stated, highlighting the particular hardship for her child, whom she was dropping off at school on the morning she was killed.
Despite the conviction of several individuals for pulling the trigger, the family and advocacy groups insist the masterminds behind the assassination remain at large. Gule emphasized that this lack of accountability for those who ordered the hit means the wound remains open and justice has not been fully served.
When asked about Deokaran’s legacy, Gule called her a “beacon of hope.” “It gives a good legacy to the potential whistleblowers… people want to stand up and be counted against any wrongdoing,” he said. He portrayed her courage as an inspiration in the fight against graft, a battle he argues is essential for the nation’s survival. “Corruption is a crime. If we do not destroy corruption, corruption will destroy this country.”
However, Gule was sharply critical of the government’s implementation of protective policies for whistleblowers. He pointed to a disconnect between legislation and action, stating, “Having a good act does not amount to good action… the political will is here and there lacking from those that are in authority.”
He called for a stronger message to be sent to those who target whistleblowers, saying, “It’s high time the government walk the talk… It must start with Babita.”
The case has seen recent developments, which the family is watching with “keen interest” and “a different spirit of hope and optimism,” Gule noted, referring to a recent press conference by a high-ranking official and a president-appointed commission. Yet, he cautioned against preempting any outcomes, stressing that the fight extends beyond a single case.
“We are also speaking on behalf of many whistleblowers that have not seen justice,” Gule said, outlining a pattern of intimidation, forced resignations, and violence against those who expose corruption. “If whistleblowers are killed or intimidated… it sends a clear message that if you stand up against any wrongdoing, that will happen to you.”
As the nation remembers Babita Deokaran, her story stands as a stark reminder of the grave risks faced by those who dare to speak truth to power and the enduring struggle for accountability that continues long after the headlines fade.