The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has expressed its approval for the recent disciplinary measures taken against officials at the Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital. The measures were a result of the SIU’s findings and recommendations regarding corruption and maladministration at the hospital.
Suspension of Six Officials
This week, the Gauteng Department of Health announced the suspension of six of the nine officials cited in the SIU’s report. The Deputy Director for Supply Chain retired, a Chief Physiotherapist resigned, and a sessional Medical Officer stopped working at the facility.
SIU’s Involvement
The SIU’s involvement began with a secondment agreement with the Gauteng Provincial Government to investigate allegations of corruption, fraud, and maladministration in the supply chain management processes at Tembisa Hospital. The SIU handed over a preliminary report to the Gauteng Premier in December 2022, and the report’s findings have led the SIU to seek a proclamation for further investigation into the hospital’s supply chain management.
Pursuing Resigning Officials
Upon obtaining the proclamation and identifying undue benefits, the SIU intends to pursue resigning officials by freezing their pension benefits and initiating civil litigation to recover financial losses incurred by state institutions. The SIU’s mandate extends beyond investigating corruption and malpractice, as it also identifies systematic failures and suggests measures to prevent future losses.
Power to Institute Civil Action
The SIU possesses the power to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to rectify any wrongdoing discovered during its investigations, resulting from corruption, fraud, or maladministration. Any evidence pointing to criminal conduct is referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action in accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996.
Commitment to Combat Corruption and Malpractice
These recent actions against Tembisa Hospital officials serve as an example of the SIU’s commitment to combat corruption and malpractice. The ongoing investigation into the hospital’s supply chain management processes and the SIU’s determination to pursue resigning officials demonstrates the organization’s dedication to ensuring accountability and transparency within South Africa’s healthcare system.
