The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) commends Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, for placing the Director General, Sandile Buthelezi, Deputy Director General, Malixole Mahlathi, and the Chief Financial Officer, Phineas Mamogale, on precautionary suspension following their arrest a little more than a week ago.

The Department of Health senior officials were arrested on 2 March on fraud and theft charges. They appeared before the Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court accused of stealing more than R1 million from the Global Fund monies intended for the fight against HIV/Aids, TB, and Malaria. They were released on R10 000 bail each.

Buthelezi, Mahlathi and Mamogale will remain on suspension until their case is finalised or their contracts expire, whichever comes first. COSATU applauds Minister Motsoaledi for taking a hard line, it is a refreshing and welcome move. Too often officials accused of corruption are allowed to carry on business as usual. We commend the Minister for drawing a line – as if to say enough is enough.

The suspensions convey a correct and much needed message to the Global Fund and other donor organisations, that theft of funds meant to aid South Africa in the fight against HIV/Aids, TB, and Malaria will not be tolerated.

South Africa has the largest number of people living with HIV and the funds from the Global Fund are meant to help bring us closer to ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

COSATU is pleased with the Minister’s decision to appoint Professor Nicholas Crisp, Deputy Director General for the National Health Insurance as interim Director General for three months.

Once again, the Federation calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to leave no stone unturned to ensure those guilty of siphoning off funds meant for HIV/Aids, TB and Malaria patients are prosecuted, their assets attached and made to serve time in prison. 

Issued by COSATU

Zanele Sabela (COSATU Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639

Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za