More than 100 psychiatric patients died after they were unlawful removed from the facility between 2015 and 2016. Image: SECTION27
Life Esidimeni
1Min
South Africa
The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed it will pursue criminal charges over the Life Esidimeni tragedy, nearly a decade after the deaths of 141 mental healthcare patients.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed that it will prosecute individuals implicated in the Life Esidimeni tragedy, where at least 141 psychiatric patients died following their transfer from licensed facilities to unregistered NGOs between 2015 and 2016.
In a statement released on Monday, the NPA said charges are expected to include culpable homicide and other offences linked to the unlawful and negligent actions that led to the deaths.
An inquest previously found that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and former Head of Department Makgabo Manamela acted negligently, contributing to some of the fatalities. The court also identified systemic failures within the Gauteng Department of Health and individuals whose conduct may result in criminal liability.
The decision follows years of delays, attributed to the complexity and scale of the case, as well as the need for a thorough legal process. The NPA acknowledged the pain endured by victims’ families during this period.
National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi said there is sufficient evidence to proceed, marking a significant step toward accountability and justice. Further details on court proceedings are expected to be announced.
