Friday, 29 March, 2024
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MEC condemns attack on hospital doctor by protestors

Eastern Cape Health MEC Helen Sauls-August has condemned an attack on a hospital doctor during an electricity-related protests by the Zithulele community in the Eastern Cape. "The terrorising behaviour of the Zithulele community is unacceptable. Health personnel should be allowed to do their work without any disruptions as they provide an essential service," Sauls-August is quoted in a News24 report as saying.

The strike turned violent when community members demanded that hospital staff – who form part of essential services – join them. When Dr Ben Gaunt attempted to negotiate with the protesters to allow staff to continue working, a knobkerrie was used to hit him over the head

"Fortunately, Dr Gaunt was not severely injured and returned to work today (Thursday)," the MEC's spokesperson, Lwandile Sicwetsha, said. "It's a criminal act (to prevent) essential services from dealing with patients who require medical attention," Sicwetsha added.

The MEC warned: "This incident could trigger a departure of many health professionals who have been servicing the Zithulele community with diligence, and none would want to work in a violent, threatening environment."

The report says the hospital is still operating for in-patients. Police were called in to manage the situation at the hospital.

[link url="https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/eastern-cape-health-mec-condemns-attack-on-hospital-doctor-during-strike-20190110"]News24 report[/link]

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