Motsoaledi calls for the arrest of violent hospital protesters

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi

“Every decent human being knows who comes to hospitals. These are sick, very sick, vulnerable members of society. They are not part of these labour issues,” Motsoaledi said.

According to some media reports, staff members were demanding payment of bonuses and increases dating back to 2016. During a protest, patients were forced out of the hospital, damaging equipment and infrastructure, and blocked entrances to the hospital.

The minister said out of 50 operations scheduled for Thursday, only 19 were done due to the protest.

Sama condemns violence

Meanwhile, the South African Medical Association (Sama) has strongly condemned violent events by staff at the hospital.

While Sama acknowledges staff may have legitimate complaints and concerns, "these should be addressed through discussion and negotiation, rather than compromise the provision of proper healthcare to those who are most vulnerable", said Dr Mzukisi Grootboom, chairman of Sama.

“Hospitals should be places of safety, havens for the ill. Whatever the reasons, there can never be any justification of violence, especially when it impacts the safety and proper treatment of patients.

“The destruction of property is also beyond comprehension as this will take money and time to repair, which again places patient treatment and safety in jeopardy. This cannot be the new normal in our country,” he said.

Sama also called on the Gauteng Health Department leadership to resolve the matter speedily as frustration with administrative challenges in the province are creating environments conducive to unacceptable actions.

Employees working within the defined essential services, such as nurses and hospital staff, are excluded from using strike action as a means of industrial action.