Dear Editor
Two officials in the Eastern Cape Department of Health have been caught driving under the influence of alcohol in a state vehicle, but remain on duty with no visible disciplinary action.
This sends a deeply troubling message about accountability within the Department.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has reliably learnt that on Saturday, 18 October, the Acting Regional Manager of the Regional Forensic Services for the Amatole and Buffalo City Metro regions, Ronnie Malandela, was allegedly arrested in Willowvale for driving under the influence.
At the time, he was operating a state-owned Ford Ranger that was visibly damaged. According to local authorities, he was unable to produce a valid trip authority, and a Department of Transport Confiscation Form confirms that he was intoxicated while driving.
It is alleged that no disciplinary measures have been instituted because of his political connections. He continues to perform his duties and is reportedly being encouraged to take early retirement to avoid internal disciplinary processes. Such conduct, if true, represents a complete breakdown of consequence management and an abuse of public trust.
Last weekend, another Forensic Pathology employee, Luyolo Matutu, was also reportedly arrested in Steynsburg for driving a state vehicle under the influence of alcohol. It is further alleged that he demanded the vehicle keys and assaulted a female traffic officer at the scene.
Again, no disciplinary action appears to have been instituted by the Department.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has written to the Head of Department, Dr Rolene Wagner, to confirm whether disciplinary processes have been initiated against either of these officials.
Should no action have been taken, a full explanation must be provided immediately. The Auditor-General has repeatedly warned that the Department’s consequence management remains grossly inadequate.
The Eastern Cape Department of Health is financially crippled and cannot afford to squander resources on misconduct and impunity. It is unconscionable that officials entrusted with the care and safety of citizens are instead using state assets to commit criminal acts.
The DA believes that health services must be delivered by sober, ethical, and accountable officials who respect the law and the people they serve. There can be no tolerance for corruption, negligence, or criminality within the public health system.
The people of the Eastern Cape deserve leadership that delivers, and a health department built on integrity, dignity, and accountability.
Regards
Jane Cowley MPL
DA Shadow MEC for Health