MEC Qedani Mahlangu: Statement on resigning as Gauteng Health MEC

MEC for Health, Ms Qedani Mahlangu has resigned over patients deaths

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Premier of Gauteng, Mr David Makhura and the ANC government for giving me the opportunity to serve my Country and the people of Gauteng.  I have been in the public service, without blemish, for the past 20 years, privileged to also serve as a member of the executive council for the last twelve and half years.  In this period, I have grown immensely and I am truly grateful.   

I have read the report of the Health Ombud relating to the circumstances surrounding the deaths of patients transferred from Life Esidimeni to various NGOs in the Gauteng Province, whose contents I note. In this communication, I propose not to raise issue with its findings or recommendations. 

For the record, the genesis of the investigation by the Health Ombud was initiated by me upon the realisation that one death too many of the patients had occurred at the NGOs. To that end, I contacted the National Minister of Health requesting him to consider the appointment of the Health Ombud to look into this matter as we were very concerned about the unfortunate turn of events.  

Whereas the Health Ombud has not found any culpability on my part for the unfortunate loss of lives by the patients; accepting that the de-institutionalisation of mental health patients is a sound and internationally recognised programme, I want to reiterate my regret at the loss of lives associated with the transfer of patients from Life Esidimeni to the various NGOs and extend my condolences to the bereaved families. I support every initiative intended to assist and support the families. 

These deaths occurred under my leadership as the MEC responsible for Health in the Province and I take political accountability as the final authority in the department.  For that reason, it is apposite that I tender my resignation as the MEC for Health - Gauteng. 

I wish to express my gratitude to the Health professionals and managers in the department who I have been privileged to work with, whose professional advice, I, at all material times, respected and accepted. I thus wish them well and hope they continue to serve the people of Gauteng with diligence and devotion. 

I would like to thank everyone who gave me support, motivation, advice and prayers through and through and I am indebted to each and everyone of them. 

For more information please contact:
Steve Mabona
Cell: 072 574 3860
Tel: 011 355 3469
E-mail: steve.mabona@gauteng.gov.za

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