Mahlangu and Hlongwa invited back to ANC PEC

Former Gauteng health MECs Qedani Mahlangu and Brian Hlongwa are likely to make a political comeback following an ANC provincial executive committee (PEC) decision to invite them back into the structure.

Their matter was brought to the table after the ANC’s Gauteng PEC welcomed back both Khusela Diko and Bandile Masuku after they were cleared by the ANC’s national disciplinary committee.

Masuku and Diko were suspended by the PEC last month after the provincial integrity committee found they had a case to answer in relation to alleged involvement in the irregular awarding of a R125m personal protective equipment contract.

The ANC provincial disciplinary committee found them guilty of bringing the party into disrepute, but this was reversed by the party’s national disciplinary committee on appeal.

ANC insiders have told the Sunday Times that Hlongwa and Mahlangu would return to the PEC as the ANC’s step-aside rule affects only those who have been criminally charged.

One insider said the PEC had accepted the report on Diko and Masuku on Monday.

“But then we said if that’s the decision then it means comrade Brian and comrade Qedani’s matter must be relooked at, and they were asked if they want to come back to the PEC,” the insider said.

“On the basis of step aside, the PEC also said comrades Brian and Qedani [must come back]. Based on the report of these two and the step-aside guidelines, because they were never charged, it means they must reoccupy their positions in the PEC.”

Mahlangu and Hlongwa were asked to step down from their positions following allegations of impropriety.

Mahlangu vacated her position and was suspended in 2018 following a report on the Life Healthcare Esidimeni scandal, in which 143 people died at psychiatric facilities in Gauteng from causes including starvation and neglect.

Hlongwa was implicated in a Special Investigating Unit report in 2018 on allegedly corrupt activities amounting to R1.2bn. He stepped down as chief whip of the ANC in the provincial legislature.

Asked for comment on his reinstatement, Hlongwa said the ANC had not approached him and that he was not aware of any such move.

“I’ve not heard anything from the ANC, therefore I can’t answer that question ... No, I’m a member of the ANC. I can’t speak to the media when I’ve not spoken to the ANC and the ANC has not spoken to me.”

Mahlangu could not be reached by the time of going to press.