We noted that today (19 March) marks one year since Justice Dikgang Moseneke made his ruling in the Life Esidimeni Arbitration case.
It is of great concern that nobody has yet been criminally charged despite the clear evidence of wrongdoing that emerged in the arbitration hearings.
Furthermore, more than 300 Esidimeni victims are still waiting to be paid compensation by the Gauteng Provincial Government. Premier David Makhura presided over the investigation into the Esidimeni Tragedy but has failed to make the amends which he promised.
The police have also been inexcusably slow in concluding their investigation into this matter. Like so much else, it highlights the ANC’s failure to hold to account those who have killed and stolen.
There is still no justice for the Life Esidimeni victims.
I’m also concerned that nine officials who were implicated in the Life Esidimeni tragedy still work for the Gauteng Health Department, with two disciplinary investigations still going on more than two years after it occurred. Seven middle management staff have received final written warnings and counselling.
They cited fear and instructions from the previous Director of Mental Health. The outcome of “an independent process” was still awaited with regard to a Chief Planning Director and Deputy Director General Clinical Services who were cited in evidence at the Esidimeni arbitration hearings.
It was said in February last year that further disciplinary processes would take place against officials who only got warning letters. This is yet another failed promise. I am horrified that these officials still work for the department.
Furthermore, a permanent head of the Mental Health Directorate has not yet been appointed. It is clear that provincial government does not have the political will or the competence to punish and hold to account all those responsible for the Esidimeni tragedy in which 144 mental health patients died.
