The recent judgment in the Esidimeni case held former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and department head Barney Selebano liable for the deaths of 144 psychiatric patients. However, the judge did not find liability for the other 133 deaths.
The Gauteng provincial government accepted the judgment, with Premier Panyaza Lesufi expressing relief that the matter was finally coming to an end. AfriForum’s private prosecution unit and Solidarity Helpende Hand also welcomed the verdict.
Solidarity represented Sandra de Villiers, whose brother died due to neglect at an Esidimeni facility. René Roux from Helpende Hand emphasized the importance of accountability for those responsible.
DA MPL Jack Bloom called for swift action in formulating criminal charges against Mahlangu and Selebano. While the lack of autopsies hindered liability for all deaths, Bloom stressed the urgency of the situation.
Overall, the judgment marks a step towards justice for the victims of the Esidimeni tragedy and their families.
TimesLIVE