Eight years since the tragedy of Life Esidimeni, and four months after the conclusion of the inquest into the case, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it is still “in the process of making a thorough, well-informed decision”.
This was in response to a memorandum of demand for justice and accountability for the Life Esidimeni victims that was handed in and accepted by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sibongile Mzinyathi yesterday, reports TimesLIVE.
In the memorandum, NGO SECTION27, which is legally representing the families of the victims, asked that the DPP expedite the prosecution proceedings and ensure comprehensive accountability.
SECTION27 is seeking the prosecution of former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and former director of mental healthcare Dr Makgbo Manamela, both of whom – in July – were found to have been negligent and responsible for the deaths of some of the psychiatric patients.
The inquest heard evidence about the transfer of more than 1 700 state mental patients from private facilities managed by Life Esidimeni to ill-equipped, unprepared NGOs between 2016 and 2017. At least 141 patients are known to have died.
“Recognising that eight years have passed since the initial events and that families have endured excessive delays, we urge that charges be formalised and brought before the court without further delay,” read the memorandum.
The NPA said the tragedy was “the greatest cause of human rights violations” by the State.
“The NPA’s decision to refer the matter for inquest was exactly for the courts to assist with the determination of the cause of death of the victims and… whether any criminality can be inferred on any party involved.”
It said it was critical that whatever decision as taken would ensure justice and closure for the families of the victims and the public.
“We want to assure families and organisations representing them that the NPA takes this matter very seriously and we are in the process of making a thorough, well-informed decision.”
However, it added, it was important to note “that the outcome of the inquest does not necessarily equate to a trial-ready case, as there may be additional criminal investigations that need to be conducted”.
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
Life Esidimeni judgment opens door for prosecutions
Health bosses guilty of Life Esidimeni deaths
SECTION27 seeks culpable homicide charges against Life Esidimeni trio