Gauteng health department head embroiled in corruption scandal, DA calls for his removal

Democratic Alliance (DA) is urging Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to remove Lesiba Malotana as head of the Gauteng Health Department amid allegations of corruption.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has proclaimed Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe two contracts involving Malotana, who allegedly shared over R10 million in bribes with two other officials.

The SIU investigation focuses on two tenders: the supply and delivery of plastic containers and orthopaedic implants. Malotana, previously Chief Director of the Special Projects Directorate and CEO of Gauteng EMS, allegedly manipulated supply chain processes to secure tenders for medical devices company BAS Medxpress in 2016 and 2017.

The SIU has investigated a R31 million contract for plastic food containers, where Malotana allegedly received an R8 million kickback.

Another alleged kickback payment of R3 million was made when BAS Med was selected to supply orthopaedic equipment to Gauteng hospitals.

DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, Jack Bloom condemns Premier Lesufi’s appointment of Malotana despite the ongoing SIU investigation.

Lesufi claims ‘unawareness of the investigation’s findings’, prompting Bloom to refer the matter to the Public Service Commission.

The DA advocates for a top management shakeup to eradicate corruption and inefficiency harming patients in public hospitals and clinics. Bloom demands Malotana’s removal and replacement with a competent leader of integrity.

This development adds to the Gauteng Health Department’s woes, including losing R670 million in unspent budget and owing R743 million to suppliers for over a year.

Bloom said DA pushes for accountability and effective leadership to improve healthcare in Gauteng.