ACORNHOEK – The Congress of the People (COPE) in Mpumalanga has called for continued investigation into a medical practitioner at Tintswalo Hospital, who allegedly has questionable qualifications.
It alleged that the doctor had worked there since 2008 and had recently resigned.
“His resignation came before the conclusion of the investigation. He had been earning more than R500 000 per annum meaning that if indeed, he did not have the qualifications then nearly R3 million of the tax-payers’ money has gone down the drain,” said Riot Hlatshwayo, COPE’s head of communication.
“The party is writing a communiqué to the health MEC Candith Mashego-Dlamini asking for an explanation as to whether the investigation would still continue after the doctor had left or be abandoned,” he said.
The party is adamant that the investigation should continue to the end, with the involvement of the law-enforcement agencies if needs be, but it should not just be swept under the carpet.
It further alleged that the Mpumalanga department of health stated that doctor came to South Africa as part of a project aimed at improving health systems in the rural areas of the country in 2008. “We will not give up until someone proves beyond reasonable doubt that the doctor was actually qualified,” said Hlatshwayo.
Health spokesperson Mr Ronny Masilela responded by saying the department conducted its investigations and had long since responded to the allegations.
“In its response, the department said we have verified with the relevant bodies and are satisfied that the doctor is qualified. Should there be someone with something contrary to this, we encourage them please to come out straight with it so we can consider it,” said Masilela.
“From where we stand now with the information at our disposal, we remain convinced that he is qualified.” he added.
When asked if the doctor had indeed resigned and if he is still in the country Masilela said, “He has transferred to another hospital outside the province.”
