DA Demands Answers After Gauteng Health HOD Lesiba Malotana Suspended Amid Corruption Probe

DA Demands Answers Following Suspension of Gauteng Health HOD

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng is demanding transparency after Premier Panyaza Lesufi placed Health Department head Lesiba Malotana on immediate suspension. The move comes amid revelations of a procurement syndicate operating within the provincial health structures, raising questions about oversight, accountability, and the state of governance in Gauteng’s healthcare system.

Why Was Malotana Suspended?

Premier Lesufi’s office confirmed the suspension last week, citing concerns arising from the ongoing investigation into corrupt practices at the Department of Health. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) had previously highlighted that over R2 billion was siphoned from Tembisa Hospital, a scandal that also culminated in the tragic assassination of Babita Deokaran, the department’s Chief Director of Financial Accounting, on 23 August 2021.

Despite these alarming revelations, the DA is pressing for clarity on the specific reasons behind Malotana’s suspension.

DA Calls for Full Disclosure

Jack Bloom, DA Gauteng’s shadow health MEC, said the public and legislators deserve to know the disciplinary charges facing Malotana, especially if they relate to corruption.

“There are multiple reasons why he should be removed, but we need to know what disciplinary charges he faces, particularly if they relate to corruption,” Bloom stated.

Bloom noted that although Lesufi previously defended Malotana including in matters relating to alleged bribes to influence tenders and adverse Auditor General reports there must be a definitive explanation for what triggered the suspension.

“What was the final straw? I suspect that he failed his lifestyle audit, and if so, we should be told,” Bloom added.

Review of Decisions and Appointments

The DA also insists that all key decisions made by Malotana during his tenure as HOD must be reviewed. This includes appointments in strategic areas such as supply chain management, which are critical for preventing further mismanagement and corruption.

Bloom emphasized that Malotana’s disciplinary enquiry should not drag on for years while he continues to draw full pay. “He should not be allowed to resign before the enquiry is concluded. If criminal wrongdoing is uncovered, charges must follow,” he said.

Political Fallout and Leadership Questions

Bloom did not hold back in criticizing Lesufi, calling the original appointment of Malotana a “terrible error of judgment.” He suggested that Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko also be held accountable and that honest, competent officials replace those in key positions to tackle the deep-seated rot that has allowed R2 billion to disappear and left hundreds of cancer patients untreated.

Next Steps: Questioning Lesufi

The DA plans to challenge Premier Lesufi during the next sitting of the Gauteng Legislature, scheduled for Tuesday at 10am, seeking clarity on Malotana’s suspension, the review of departmental decisions, and broader measures to restore accountability in the provincial health system.

Social media reactions have mirrored the DA’s concerns, with many South Africans expressing frustration at recurring healthcare scandals and the slow pace of accountability in the province. Citizens are demanding that leadership failures no longer jeopardize public health and taxpayer resources.

{Source: The Citizen}

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