On August 22, 2023, the High Court of South Africa: Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg sentenced six men for their involvement in the murder of Babita Deokaran, the Acting Chief Financial Officer in the Gauteng Department of Health. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) welcomes this sentencing as a victory for justice as Babita Deokaran had bravely exposed irregularities concerning suppliers and service providers conducting business with Tembisa Hospital, which had resulted in payments of around R850 million.
Babita Deokaran’s Role in Stopping Corruption
As a senior official in finance and supply chain management, Deokaran collaborated with law enforcement agencies, particularly the SIU, in stopping the abuse of public funds. She supplied the SIU with important details to assist with inquiries into the procurement of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) within the health department. Moreover, she highlighted maladministration, fraud, and corruption connected to supply chain management processes at Tembisa Hospital.
Outcome of SIU’s Investigation
The SIU’s investigation yielded significant outcomes, and consequence management has been implemented. Several senior officials in the health department have faced disciplinary action and dismissal from employment, while PPE contracts have been terminated, and the funds returned to the State. However, several contracts still need to be adjudicated in the Special Tribunal, such as the refurbishment of the AngloGold Ashanti Mine Hospital for COVID-19 purposes.
Further Investigations by SIU
Last week, the health department announced the suspension of six of the nine officials cited in the SIU Report on Tembisa Hospital. Some individuals left the hospital before action could be taken against them. The SIU will conduct further investigations into alleged corruption, maladministration, fraud, and malpractices related to the supply chain management processes at the hospital.
Efforts of Law Enforcement Agencies
The SIU salutes the efforts of the South African Police Service, particularly the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks), and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for their continued pursuit to uncover the mastermind behind Babita Deokaran’s murder. This case serves as a somber reminder of the courage displayed by whistleblowers like Deokaran, who risk their lives in the pursuit of justice and the greater good.
Message to the Public
The sentencing of these men sends a strong message that corruption and violence will not go unpunished. Though Babita Deokaran’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy lives on through the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies, such as the SIU, the Hawks, and the NPA. Their ongoing work in the fight against corruption and fraud is a testament to Deokaran’s dedication to upholding justice and protecting the public interest.
