File photo (Photo; Alexander Gray / Unsplash)
The DA in Gauteng welcomes the decision by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prosecute those involved in the deaths of mental health patients in the Life Esidimeni tragedy.
“This is long overdue, as families have been waiting ten years for justice for the death of their loved ones,” says Jack Bloom, the DA’s shadow MEC for health in Gauteng.
“It is imperative that all those identified by the judicial investigation are prosecuted on the full range of possible charges, including culpable homicide.”
Bloom believes that this should also include the former Gauteng MEC for health, Qedani Mahlangu.
“Politicians must not evade responsibility for gross negligence that leads to suffering and death.”
Maroela Media earlier reported that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will prosecute individuals who were involved in the death of numerous mental health care patients during the Life Esidimeni transfers.
The Life Esidimeni tragedy, which occurred between 2015 and 2016, resulted in the death of at least 141 psychiatric patients after their illegal removal from licensed care facilities and transfer to non-governmental organizations, most of which were unregistered and inadequately equipped to care for vulnerable patients.
The issue is labeled as one of the most serious human rights violations in democratic South Africa.
Bloom adds the DA will continue to promote the well-being of mental health patients, who continue to be neglected in Gauteng hospitals, as evidenced by the recent health ombudsman’s report on the death of a psychiatric patient at the George Mukhari Hospital.
“Successful prosecutions will act as a deterrent by showing real consequences for those who mistreat vulnerable patients.”