Gauteng Legislature defends oversight role amid health scandals

THE Gauteng Legislature has claimed that its watchdog role over the provincial government's health was effective despite two public health institutions, Tembisa and Life Esidimeni hospitals, in the province having been caught in deadly controversies.

- BONGANI HANS

THE Gauteng Legislature claims to be effective in doing its job of monitoring the provincial government. Gauteng Legislature website

This assertion comes amid ongoing investigations into alleged R2 billion tender fraud at Tembisa Hospital and follows the 2017 Life Esidimeni tragedy where approximately 140 mental health patients died due to systemic negligence.

Some organisations have blamed parliament for not putting in place strong measures to hold those in charge of public institutions accountable.

Provincial legislature spokesperson Thabisile Nzuke said the legislature has implemented its Sector Oversight Model (SOM) to ensure that the executive delivers on its mandate in line with policy commitments, budget allocations, and service delivery targets.

"Within this framework, the Health and Wellness Portfolio Committee exercises ongoing oversight over the Department of Health and Wellness, ensuring accountability in the management of public health resources.

"The Committee systematically analyses departmental performance, budget expenditure, and governance processes to safeguard against inefficiencies and potential misuse of funds," said Nzuke.

National Parliament's spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo, had not responded to questions sent to him about the performance of parliament in monitoring the government.

National Parliament's Health Portfolio Committee chairperson Sibongiseni Dhlomo declined to respond.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) recently released its damning interim report, revealing that a number of syndicates and health staff, including senior managers, nurses, and clerks, were behind the looting of the Tembisa Hospital through breaching the supply chain management policies.

The corruption at Tembisa Hospital had been linked to the murder of health official Babita Deokaran, who blew the whistle.