The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (Denosa) in Gauteng has intensified its calls for immediate intervention from Premier Panyaza Lesufi and the provincial Health MEC, citing persistent staffing shortages, deteriorating working conditions, and systemic mismanagement in the healthcare sector.
March for Change Ignored
Last week, Denosa members staged a multi-day march from Pretoria to Johannesburg to deliver a memorandum outlining their grievances. Despite the demonstration, Premier Lesufi failed to meet with the union, sending only a special advisor and the Health MEC to receive the document.
Bongani Banda, Denosa’s provincial chairperson, expressed frustration over the premier’s absence, stating, “We don’t know the reasons, and no apology was given. The premier’s office is key to resolving these issues, yet there’s been no commitment to engage.”
Unfilled Posts and Underspending
Banda revealed that over 955 funded nursing posts remain vacant due to an unexplained moratorium on hiring since late 2023. Despite the critical shortage, the health department allegedly returned R1.8 billion to the treasury, raising concerns about financial mismanagement.
“How can there be underspending when hospitals are collapsing understaffed?” Banda questioned, accusing officials of neglecting frontline workers.
Bullying and Toxic Leadership
The union also highlighted a culture of fear within the department, alleging that a senior official issues verbal directives without accountability. Panda referenced a Public Service Commission (PSC) recommendation to remove the official over irregular appointments, which has gone unenforced since 2023.
“This person is causing chaos. CEOs are on short-term contracts, too afraid to make decisions, leaving hospitals ungovernable,” he said.
Unpaid Workers in Limbo
Community service nurses and former COVID-19 contract workers face further injustice, with many denied full pay and benefits. Panda condemned the department’s failure to honor agreements, stating, “They’re withholding 37% of owed payments, promising future appointments that never come.”
Call for Accountability
Denosa vows to escalate pressure on the premier, demanding transparency and urgent reforms. Meanwhile, the Health MEC has promised a meeting this week to discuss the memorandum—a move the union views as insufficient without the premier’s direct involvement.
“Healthcare is under siege. We need answers now,” Banda asserted.
The Gauteng Health Department and Premier’s office have yet to respond publicly.
