Report release into death of 36 delayed

Eric Naki

Gauteng health MEC Qedani Mahlangu has received the draft report of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of at least 36 mentally ill patients in Gauteng.

Health ombud Malegapuru Makgoba yesterday said the release of the report, which was expected to be tomorrow, had been postponed until further notice.

Makgoba said Mahlangu agreed to provide feedback on the report by last Friday, but requested an an extension.

“As a result of the request from the MEC, the health ombud granted her an extension until close of business on Tuesday, January 24, 2017.

“Given the above-mentioned explanation, the health ombud cannot release the report on January 18 as was planned,” Makgoba said in a statement.

Thirty-six patients with mental illness died after they were transferred from Life Healthcare Esidimeni to facilities run by nongovernmental organisations.

The 36 patients who died were among 2 000 transferred from Life Healthcare Esidimeni to other facilities after the provincial department cancelled a contract with Esidimeni due to nonaffordability.

The private facility had cared for thousands of chronically ill patients in Gauteng for more than 40 years.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura told the legislature recently that the matter of the removal of the patients could have been handled better and according to policy.

“I await the finding of the investigation of the office of the health ombud so that we can hold the relevant people responsible and accountable,” Makhura said.

“Should it be found that the government officials acted improperly or negligently, I will act without fear, favour or prejudice. This matter has caused much pain and anguish.”

Democratic Alliance provincial health spokesperson Jack Bloom called on Mahlangu to resign.

If she failed to do so, he said, Makhura should take action and dismiss her.

Should it be found that the government officials acted improperly or negligently, I will act without fear, favour or prejudice. This matter has caused much pain and anguish.

David Makhura Gauteng premier