Health MEC accused of “conflict of interest” 

Staff reporter 

Bloemfontein – The Member of Executive Council (MEC) for Health in Free State, Viceroy Mahlatsi is facing fresh accusing from the workers union, NEHAWU. 

This follows an appeal by two expelled employees who were found guilty and their appeal was dismissed by Mahlatsi. 

Khaphola and Masithela worked as director and assistant director, security services and were charged and dismissed earlier this year for unlawful recruitment of security personnel. 

According to a DC report in our possession, they duo alleged they were given political instructions to hire but could not provide evidence nor call witnesses. 

Furthermore, they asked why Dr Nomgaga Setshego, acting CEO of Pelonomi Hospital was not charged for a similar act. 

This relates to Dr Setshego’s communication after promoting Lizzy Setai, a clerk at the time to communications officer without any due process.

BREAKING NEWS: Hospital CEO appoints a clerk to a post six levels higher

It has since been established that Setlai is MEC Mahlatsi’s fiancé having paid lobola for her. 

When Mahlatsi paid lobola in December last year he was still married and o ly served divorce papers few days later. You can’t make this up. 

A clerk appointed as communication officer is Health MEC’s partner

Mahlatsi’s car was even photographed at Setlai’s house. 

The appointment was later reversed by Masechaba Sesing, erstwhile Head of Department after the expose. Reversal doesn’t want she was not promoted and it’s highly improbable that Dr Setshego just woke up and decided I will promote Setlai.

NEHAWU member who spoke on condition of anonymity at Bophelo House said Mahlatsi should have recused himself from this specific appeal.

“MEC Mahlatsi ought to have recused himself from this as it contains his own affair and he has to explain why Dr Setshego is yet to be charged. 

Reference to his own relationship automatically throws him out and he should have sat this one out.” 

Another source said the manner in which this appeal was fast tracked is also a concern.

“The office of the MEC has appeals dating back to 2023 waiting for him to decide yet a case that mentions his fiancé is given priority, I smell a rat.” 

It’s not the first time an MEC gets directly involved in operational matters. Erstwhile MEC Mathabo Leeto did it. 

Mondli Mvambi, spokesperson for Health didn’t respond to our questions.

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