The Public Service Association (PSA) has called for disciplinary measures against health officials implicated in systemic failures that led to the deaths of two psychiatric patients at Kimberley Mental Health Hospital and Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital last year. This follows the release of a damning report by Health Ombudsman Professor Malegapuru Makgoba, which exposed severe mismanagement, staff shortages, and neglect of basic patient care.
Ombudman’s Findings Reveal Institutional Collapse
The report highlighted alarming deficiencies, including poor record-keeping, lack of written protocols, and failures in clinical governance. Professor Makgoba identified systemic mismanagement and insufficient staffing as key contributors to the breakdown in care.
PSA spokesperson Reuben Maleka emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “Punitive action must be taken where there is law-breaking, mismanagement of funds, or blatant theft. Let the courts and police act accordingly—we want to see convictions.”
Unions Demand Involvement in Turnaround Strategy
Hospersa, another health sector union, has urged the Department of Health to include organized labor in the task team responsible for implementing the Ombudman’s recommendations. “We firmly believe the department will include us so we can be part of the solution from the onset,” a union representative said.
Health Minister Vows Consequences for Negligent Officials
Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla has backed the Ombudman’s call for implicated health professionals to be reported to their respective councils for disciplinary action. Provincial health authorities confirmed that officials named in the report will face sanctions.
“The department is finalizing investigations into suspect procurement practices, including inflated costs,” a provincial spokesperson said. Minister Phaahla is expected to visit the Northern Cape soon to meet with Premier Zamani Saul and health officials to ensure corrective measures are swiftly implemented.
The tragic deaths have sparked outrage, with unions and government officials agreeing that accountability and systemic reform are urgently needed to prevent future failures.