Kaya 959 Point of View with Phemelo Motene

NPA moves to prosecute over Life Esidimeni tragedy

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More than a decade after the deaths of at least 141 psychiatric patients, there may finally be accountability in the Life Esidimeni tragedy. The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed it will pursue charges, including culpable homicide, following a 2024 inquest that found former Gauteng health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and mental health director Makgabo Manamela liable for some of the deaths. The patients died between 2015 and 2016 after being moved from Life Esidimeni facilities to unlicensed NGOs as part of a cost-cutting exercise, many left without adequate care, food or medication. Phemelo speaks to SECTION27’s Tendai Mafuma and Life Esidimeni Family Committee spokesperson Christine Nxumalo about what this long-awaited step toward justice means for families.
13 Apr 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

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