The Democratic Alliance (DA) has threatened to approach the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) over severe water disruptions at Carletonville Hospital in Ekurhuleni, which the party claims have forced the shutdown of critical services, including the theater and maternity ward.
Hospital in Crisis
DA Health Spokesperson Madeleine Hicklin revealed shocking conditions during a recent oversight visit, describing nurses carrying buckets of water to maintain basic sanitation. According to Hicklin, the hospital’s water reservoir dropped below 20%, leaving no running water in wards, emergency rooms, or sterilization units.
“The emergency department had no functional toilets, and doctors were using cups of water to wash their hands between patients,” Hicklin said. She blamed the Merafong Municipality’s R1.66 billion debt to Rand Water for the throttled supply, calling it a violation of patients’ rights.
Contradictory Claims
Gauteng Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba disputed the DA’s account, insisting the water outage on May 8 was resolved within hours. However, he acknowledged broader supply challenges due to Rand Water’s restrictions, admitting the issue could persist “for the foreseeable future.”
Modiba also denied that theater closures were water-related, attributing them to a pre-planned renovation. Yet, Hicklin maintained that sterilization services and maternity care remain compromised.
Political Standoff
The DA has demanded urgent intervention from Premier Panyaza Lesufi, accusing the ANC-led government of systemic failures in public health. “Water is a basic human right—hospitals should never be held hostage by municipal mismanagement,” Hicklin said.
Modiba criticized the DA for “conflating issues” but admitted contingency measures, like water tankers, are insufficient long-term solutions.
Next Steps
With the DA escalating the matter to the SAHRC, the crisis highlights growing tensions over service delivery in Gauteng. Patients and staff await lasting solutions as the province grapples with infrastructure and payment disputes.
