Right to Justice pursues private prosecution against Ayanda Dakela

THE civil society organisation Right to Justice has confirmed that it will be pursuing a private prosecution against Ayanda Dakela, the suspended Head of Infrastructure at the National Department of Health, amid growing frustration over the state's failure to bring criminal charges despite serious allegations of misconduct.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

This unprecedented move follows over a year of suspension without any formal criminal accountability. While multiple health department officials have been arrested and dismissed in recent months for procurement-related misconduct, Dakela remains uncharged, leading to criticism from anti-corruption activists and renewed calls for justice.

Right to Justice will meet with the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) today to request a 'nolle prosequi' certificate. If granted, it would allow the NGO to proceed with criminal charges against Dakela independently of the State.

"Health officials are being charged left and right," said Siphesihle Jele, Chairperson of Right to Justice.

"Yet Ayanda Dakela, who has been implicated in serious allegations, is still walking free. He was suspended over a year ago, but we've seen no meaningful action since then. It's time to stop waiting for the state to do the right thing"