DA accuses Nkomo-Ralehoko of misleading residents on the overcrowding of mortuaries
The party claims her assurances to address these dire conditions contradict her actions, which they argue fail to demonstrate genuine commitment to solving the problem.
FILE: Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. Picture: X/NkomoNomantu
JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has accused Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko of misleading residents regarding the serious issue of overcrowded mortuaries in public hospitals.
The party claims her assurances to address these dire conditions contradict her actions, which they argue fail to demonstrate genuine commitment to solving the problem.
During a recent session in the Gauteng provincial legislature, Nkomo-Ralehoko was questioned about forensic investigations and what the DA describes as mortuary horror stories.
She reportedly pledged to collaborate with the DA to find solutions for residents affected by this crisis.
However, the party contends that she has yet to follow through on this commitment, labelling her promises as merely a public relations stunt.
The DA's Gauteng spokesperson for Health, Madeleine Hicklin, highlighted concerns about transparency and inclusivity in Nkomo-Ralehoko's approach.
Meanwhile, Gauteng’s Health Department has responded to the allegations clarifying that the event was an internal operational session and criticised Hicklin for misleading the public about unclaimed bodies.
Gauteng ranks fifth in the country with 176 unclaimed bodies, with the department highlighting that it is implementing new technology to improve forensic services for identifying unknown remains.