Gauteng Health Shake-Up Looms: DA Warns Premier Lesufi Against Malotana’s Return

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The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has strongly opposed Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s reported reappointment of Lesiba Malotana as head of the Gauteng Health Department.

Malotana was suspended after a lifestyle audit deemed him “high risk” due to R1.6M in questionable cash payments.

DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, Dr. Jack Bloom, alleges that Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko is undermining Acting HOD Dr. Darion Barclay by informing officials that Malotana will soon return to the position.

Bloom warned that reinstating Malotana will be a disaster for a department mired in scandal and maladministration.

“Premier Lesufi erred in appointing Malotana as HOD in June 2024, despite an SIU probe into his alleged sharing of R10 million in bribes to influence tenders.

“Malotana recommended Dr Ashley Mthunzi as Tembisa Hospital CEO in July 2021 despite application discrepancies, implicating him in the hospital’s corruption, as revealed by the Public Protector’s report. More than R2 billion was stolen from the hospital through corrupt contracts signed off by Mthunzi.

“Malotana avoided charges for maladministration and improper conduct. He also escaped censure regarding the PPE corrupt contracts scandal, despite being on the authorising committee,” he remarked.

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Bloom suggested he likely has political protection and leverage due to his knowledge of corrupt ANC politicians, and he oversaw a scandal where hundreds of cancer patients missed radiation treatment despite allocated funds.

He added, “The National Treasury has formally written to the department due to its unacceptably poor financial management, demanding an explanation to prevent the department from being placed under administration.

Sweeping Gauteng health department

“Lesufi must fire Health MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko and back acting HOD Barclay to swiftly clean up the department, ensuring quality healthcare.”

Bloom stated that putting the best people in charge at all levels will dramatically improve health services.

“It can be done — but only with decisive leadership and political will,” he concluded.