Zuma finally breaks his silence on Gauteng's psychiatric tragedy
The president has told Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi to ensure the Health Ombudsman's recommendations are implemented
The government was “distressed” by the deaths of 94 mentally ill patients in Gauteng, President Jacob Zuma said on Thursday. Zuma said the government would support the families of the deceased. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to all families and relatives of the deceased,” he said. The Health Ombudsman released a report earlier in February on the investigation of the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 94 mentally ill patients in Gauteng. Zuma said he had instructed Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi to ensure that the Health Ombudsman’s recommendations are “wholly implemented”. “We welcome recommendations that there is an urgent need to review national health act and the mental health act with a view that certain powers revert back to the national minister of health,” said Zuma. Earlier, DA chief whip John Steenhuisen requested that Parliament observe a minute of silence in honour of the 94 mentally ill patients, “the greatest tragedy since Marikana”. However, National Assem...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.