REFILWE MEKOA
NEHAWU says they are disappointed by the reinstatement of Free State Health MEC Benny Malakoane.
According to provincial secretary Mokapi Mokhachane, since Malakoane joined the department, they have seen matters deteriorating and have reached crisis levels.
“The hospitals are struggling in terms of resources and consumable materials which are used on daily basis. About more than two weeks ago at Bongani Hospital, they didn’t have gloves. It was difficult for nurses to deliver pregnant patients in labour wards and check the wounded patients. Dihlabeng Hospital doesn’t have hot water, no food or consumable equipment and Pelonomi Hospital is also going through some crisis,” he said.
Mokhachane emphasized that majority of health employees are expected to work overtime though they are not paid for it and they will not rest till the problems are resolved.
“The presence of Malakoane introduced the Buthelezi private ambulances, which we believe the money used to pay that private company could be used in different hospitals that are struggling. We understand that he did not serve a full term of five years, however, the time he spend as an MEC in the previous term, we did not see as the union any positive changes,” added Mokhachane.
