Dhlomo misleading public on oncologists

HEALTH MEC Sibongiseni Dhlomo this week again showed he is a master of deception – this time misleading the public over oncology services at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital.

According to Dhlomo, three new oncologists who form part of a Wits Health Consortium had arrived and would begin seeing patients.

The implication was that this would happen immediately and would be a long-term solution.

These oncologists will only be in the province for six months.

The MEC also failed to inform the public that the oncologists were expected only some time next week.

This was confirmed to the DA by a professional at the hospital.

Given the MEC and his department’s track record, another week could easily turn into another month.

Why is the MEC always so economical with the truth? Is he trying to save face in the midst of his department collapsing around him, or is he simply misleading the people of KZN again?

An even bigger question is: why has KZN Premier Willies Mchunu not fired an MEC who has essentially presided over hundreds, if not thousands, of untimely deaths? Or does he and his Ancled provincial cabinet simply not care?

The DA remains committed to ensuring that patients’ lives and well-being are put first. We will do so through continuous oversight.

Those politicians who put their own party interests ahead of the needs of the people of our province must go.

DR IMRAN KEEKA, MPL DA KZN health spokesperson