“Section 27 is requesting our office to expedite the prosecution proceedings, ensure comprehensive accountability and commit to regular updates to affected families.
“The Life Esidimeni matter is a tragedy that has been referred to as ‘the greatest cause of human rights violations’ by the state under SA’s democracy.
“The NPA’s decision to refer the matter for inquest was exactly for the courts to assist with the determination of the cause of death of the victims and most importantly, whether any criminality can be inferred on any party that was involved in the scandal.
“It is therefore critical that the decision taken will ensure justice and closure for the families of the victims and the public at large.
“The director of public prosecutions (DPP) is prioritising the matter, and a decision will be taken and communicated,” said Mahanjana.
Teffo had ruled that the deaths of Virginia Machpelah, Deborah Phehla, Frans Dekker, Charity Ratsotso, Koketso Mogoerane, Terrence Chaba, Daniel Josiah, Matlakala Motsoahae, and Lucky Maseko were unnatural.
They were among the 144 who had died when they were moved to NGOs, some of whom were not registered while others were not capable of handling patients of their needs.
Nandi Ntini
www.sowetanlive.co.za
