Health Dept asks for space, time amid Mkhize corruption probe
The Department of Health has pleaded with the media and public to give it space and time amid investigations of corruption.
The plea comes after the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) revealed its investigations into top Health officials were at an advanced stage.
Earlier this year, the SIU received a complaint about alleged dodgy dealings at the National Health Department.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize is accused of having a hand in the irregular procurement processes of the Covid tender awarded to a KwaZulu-Natal communications company.
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“In February, the Minister made a public commitment that as soon as a final report is available, the outcomes, findings and recommendations thereof will be shared with members of the public,” the department said on Monday.
“We wish to assure you that that commitment remains. We are also confident that the SIU continues to follow its investigation process as proclaimed.
The department added it was cooperating with investigations.
“The non-response to various media queries by the department and the Minister is out of ensuring that there is no interference with the ongoing investigations and all the necessary information and documents is shared with the investigators.
“Interviews have been held with affected parties, various actions to uncover the details into the allegations have already been embarked on.
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"At this stage, we can only confirm that the decision for the investigation to be conducted externally by entities with the necessary capacity was important as it has unveiled some glaring irregularities that will certainly have to be responded to or action taken against.
“We, however, wish to plead with the media and members of the public that the Department be given more time. It would not at all serve much of a purpose if allegations that are under investigation are responded to publicly and not through an already established formal investigative process that will lead to proper legal recourse or action being taken.”
