Several appointments in KwaZulu-Natal have come under scrutiny amid allegations of cadre deployment levelled against Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane, with accusations that she and close associates have influenced the appointment of hospital board members linked to the ANC, reports IOL.
Sources says recent appointments lack transparency and merit – the controversy escalating after a formal complaint was lodged with the department, and prompting questions about the integrity of the appointment process.
The catalyst was a letter by Ndunankulu Dlamini in Richmond, traditional leader of Esiphahleni under the Esiphahleni Traditional Council, who had applied to serve as a board member at Richmond Hospital, and who questioned subsequent appointments, which he said smacked of nepotism and favouritism.
He had written to ask for clarity on the criteria used in the selection process, as well as a list of appointed board members, including their qualifications,
Sources close to the appointments said two known ANC regional leaders had been appointed, one as chairperson of Richmond Hospital’s board, while another board member was currently involved in a firearms case involving unlicensed weapons.
It was also alleged that the wife of one appointee works within the office of the MEC, while a man believed to be an appointee’s assistant was appointed chairperson of Northdale Hospital.
Critics claim these appointments are classic examples of cadre deployment, favouring loyalists and associates over qualified professionals.
The MEC and her spokesperson, Nathi Oliphant, did not respond to questions for comment.
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