Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has suspended the head of the province’s Department of Health and Wellness, Lesiba Arnold Malotana, with immediate effect as investigations into large-scale corruption at Tembisa Hospital intensify.
The suspension follows findings from a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report that uncovered fraud involving health officials, business syndicates, and irregular contracts worth billions of rand. In response, Dr Darion Barclay has been appointed as acting head of the department to maintain stability during the ongoing investigation.
The SIU’s interim report links at least three syndicates to around R2 billion in suspicious payments at Tembisa Hospital. The probe involves 207 service providers and 4,501 purchase orders, with Gauteng Health officials allegedly benefiting to the tune of R122 million through irregular procurement processes. Staff implicated range from clerks to senior managers, though the number could increase as investigations continue.
The Premier’s decision to suspend Malotana is intended to safeguard the integrity of both the department and the investigation. The provincial government has also pledged to act on the SIU’s recommendations.
During the suspension, Barclay—currently head of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs—will oversee the Health Department, ensuring continuity in operations. The Premier’s Office has confirmed that all Members of the Executive Council’s performance agreements will be made public on 16 October 2025.
The provincial administration has reaffirmed its commitment to combating maladministration and promoting accountability, ethical leadership, and seamless service delivery across Gauteng’s government departments.
Facebook Comments