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The Public Servants Association (PSA) noted with extreme concern that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has arrested senior officials of the National Department of Health, including the Director-General, following allegations of serious corruption and fraud related to irregular awarding of work to a service provider in contravention of the Public Finance Management Act.
 
These developments are concerning given the vital role that the Department of Health plays in ensuring the well-being of South Africans. The Department is responsible for delivering essential health services and for building a healthier nation. Corruption at senior level undermines public trust, weakens service delivery, and diverts resources meant for patients and communities who rely on accessible healthcare.
 
The PSA calls on the Hawks and all relevant authorities to conduct a swift, transparent, and thorough investigation to determine the full extent of any wrongdoing. All officials, irrespective of seniority, if proven to have engaged in corrupt activities, must be held fully accountable under the law.
 
The PSA has consistently advocated for stronger measures to eradicate corruption in government departments. Corruption harms public finances and has a direct negative impact on service delivery and the quality of life of citizens, especially the most vulnerable.
 
The PSA acknowledges that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty and urges for due processes to be followed. At the same time, the integrity of public institutions must be upheld, and decisive action must be taken wherever prima facie evidence of corruption exists.

Issued by Public Servants Association