Gauteng Accepts Life Esidimeni Inquest Judgment, Commits to Mental Healthcare Reform

The inquest, initiated in July 2021, aimed to ascertain criminal liability for the deaths of 141 mental healthcare users from Life Esidimeni.

The Gauteng Provincial Government has publicly acknowledged and accepted the judgment delivered by Pretoria High Court Judge Mmonoa Teffo regarding the Life Esidimeni inquest, which concluded on Wednesday. The inquest, initiated in July 2021, aimed to ascertain criminal liability for the deaths of 141 mental healthcare users from Life Esidimeni.

Judge Teffo's ruling holds former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and then Mental Health Director Dr. Makgabo Manamela accountable for the deaths of some patients. The court found that relocating patients from the specialized Life Esidimeni facility to ill-equipped and inexperienced NGOs in 2016 led to "regrettable and avoidable deaths."

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi expressed relief that the judicial process, which inflicted considerable pain and suffering on affected families and survivors, is approaching closure. He emphasized the government's commitment to complying with the court's directives and addressing the aftermath of the tragedy.

The judgement follows a preceding arbitration process, overseen by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke starting in 2018. Moseneke's arbitration awarded R1 million in constitutional damages to each victim's family, totaling R159.46 million disbursed as stipulated.

Lesufi clarified that outstanding payments are limited to survivors not initially covered by the arbitration, with disbursement protocols aligning with the Mental Healthcare Act 17 of 2002. Verification processes will release 50% of claims to recipients, while the remainder will be held in trust.

Looking ahead, Lesufi affirmed confidence in the National Prosecuting Authority's commitment to advancing the judicial process further. He underscored ongoing efforts by the provincial government to fortify mental healthcare infrastructure and services. This includes operationalizing five district Mental Health Review Boards (MHRBs) comprising legal and healthcare professionals and community representatives.

Efforts to bolster mental health services have also seen several healthcare facilities refurbished and reopened across Gauteng, such as Bertha Gxowa, South Rand, Tshwane District, Tembisa, Edenvale, Dr. George Mukhari, and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals. Additionally, the newly established Kopanong Gateway Specialised Mental Health Day Clinic offers a spectrum of free services, from counseling to psychotherapy, tailored for adults, children, and adolescents.

Premier Lesufi concluded by expressing solidarity with affected families, acknowledging the inquest's pivotal role in achieving closure and accountability. He affirmed the government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights of mental healthcare users and ensuring such tragedies are never repeated.

The Gauteng Provincial Government remains resolute in its dedication to transforming mental healthcare services and upholding justice for the victims of the Life Esidimeni tragedy.