The Limpopo Department of Health has raised concern over developments relating to the recruitment of security personnel to be deployed at healthcare institutions across the province.
Spokesperson for the Limpopo MEC for Health, Percy Moagi, said recruitment processes managed by appointed security service providers had attracted interest from various stakeholders, including political formations.
While acknowledging the importance of community involvement and transparency, the department stressed that recruitment must be conducted strictly within the framework of applicable laws, contractual obligations, and established governance procedures.
“Anything about that will be a demonstration of hijacking of the processes for political point scoring,” the department said.
The department stated that the appointment of the current security service provider followed what it described as a rigorous and transparent supply chain management process, in compliance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), National Treasury regulations and other relevant legislative prescripts.
According to the department, the tender was publicly advertised and open to all qualifying bidders who met stipulated requirements, ensuring fairness, competitiveness and transparency.
In line with contractual arrangements, the department clarified that the responsibility for recruiting security personnel rests with the appointed service provider.
It added that, as part of promoting transparency and community awareness, service providers are encouraged to liaise with recognised and legitimate community representative structures such as ward councillors, traditional leaders and Community Policing Forums.
“These engagements are intended to foster cooperation and stability, not to transfer or politicise recruitment authority,” the department said.
The department warned that any deviation from lawful processes could create instability within healthcare facilities, which it described as critical public service points that must remain safe, secure and focused on delivering uninterrupted care to patients.
“We therefore call on all stakeholders to allow the lawful processes to unfold without disruption and to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and professionalism within our healthcare institutions,” Moagi said.
The department reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness and community partnership, while safeguarding the integrity of its procurement and service delivery systems.
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Jonisayi Maromo
iol.co.za
