Qedani Mahlangu

Former Health MEC Blamed for Tragic Deaths in Life Esidimeni Inquest

Justice served after eight years - Former Gauteng Health MEC, Qedani Mahlangu, found responsible for negligence leading to deaths in Life Esidimeni inquest.

After an eight-year wait for justice, judgment has finally been handed down in the Life Esidimeni inquest. Judge Mmonoa Teffo found that former Gauteng Health MEC, Qedani Mahlangu, can be held responsible for the deaths of 141 psychiatric patients in 2016 at Life Esidimeni. The inquest, probing criminal liability, highlighted the negligence that resulted in this tragic loss of lives.

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Judge Mmonoa Teffo emphasized that evidence presented pointed to the responsibility of Mahlangu and Dr. Manamela for the negligence that led to the deaths of mental health patients. The Pretoria high court's ruling highlighted the mismanagement in transferring patients from Life Esidimeni to ill-prepared non-governmental organizations, resulting in tragic consequences.

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The DA welcomed the Life Esidimeni inquest findings that held Qedani Mahlangu and Makgabo Manemela accountable for the deaths of mental health patients. The judgment underscored the need for accountability in healthcare leadership to prevent similar tragedies. The court determined that negligence on the part of the former Health MEC was a significant factor in the deaths, acknowledging the importance of proper care and oversight in mental health facilities.