Tragic death of intern doctor at uMlazi hospital sparks urgent call for accountability
The tragic death of an intern doctor at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in uMlazi has sparked anger and calls for accountability.
Image: File
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has confirmed the tragic death of medical intern Dr Alulutho Mazwi, who passed away on Tuesday allegedly while on duty at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, one of four healthcare workers who died in separate incidents in recent days.
The Department expressed its shock and deep sadness at the loss of Dr Mazwi and three other medical professionals: Dr Siyabonga Zulu from Ngwelezane Hospital, Mr Mvelo Cele from Port Shepstone Hospital, and Dr Tumelo Kgaladi from Addington Hospital.
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane said, “It has been truly devastating to learn of the deaths of these young, talented professionals at four of our healthcare facilities. They were individuals who not only contributed immensely to our healthcare system, but also embodied the spirit of service, compassion, and leadership.”
However, the death of Dr Mazwi has sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability, particularly from the Public Servants Association (PSA), which alleges that the 26-year-old intern was forced to work while critically ill.
The PSA described Dr Mazwi’s death as “tragic and preventable”. The union alleges that his deteriorating health was visible, yet he was compelled by his supervising consultant to continue working.
“He collapsed during his shift and tragically passed away,” the PSA said.
The union claims that this incident reflects systemic problems at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, including “inhumane working conditions, autocratic leadership, and abuse of power.”
“The PSA previously picketed and delivered memoranda to the Head of Department and the MEC for Health, raising serious concerns about ill-treatment of staff. To date, no meaningful investigation or intervention has been conducted,” it said.
According to the PSA, the Department initiated a flawed internal investigation that was “meant to cover up wrongdoing, particularly shielding a senior matron who has been widely accused of bullying managers and staff.”
“This investigation further eroded confidence in the Department’s willingness to confront abuse of power,” it said.
The PSA has called for the immediate precautionary suspension of the implicated consultant and other senior managers and demanded an independent investigation led by the Office of the KZN MEC for Health, the Premier, the National Health Ombud, and the South African Human Rights Commission.
“A public report should be released, detailing accountability and consequences for those involved,” the union added.
While the Department has not yet responded to the PSA’s allegations, it said that it would continue to support the affected institutions and bereaved families. “Plans to honour their memory and contributions to the health sector are underway,” it said.