Inquiry into Prince Mshiyeni doctor’s death reveals systemic issues
Tragedy and accountability: The investigation into Dr Alulutho Mazwi's untimely death sheds light on systemic issues within our healthcare system. As we await the findings, the call for urgent reforms grows louder.
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The investigation into the tragic death of medical intern Dr Alulutho Mazwi at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal has officially concluded, as confirmed by the Office of the Health Ombudsman, led by Professor Taole Mokoena.
This probe was initiated following a request from the Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi, and the findings are now in the final stages of compilation, pending comments from key stakeholders.
Dr Mazwi, who had been diagnosed with diabetes, had reported feeling unwell but was allegedly instructed to continue working. He collapsed twice before his death, raising serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding his treatment.
The Ombudsman’s office has stated, “The investigation has been concluded and is in the final stages of writing up, pending comments from the family, the health establishment, and other stakeholders.” They further indicated that the full findings would be released “in due course.”
This tragedy has highlighted systemic issues within the hospital. In response to the incident, Dr Mazwi’s supervisor was placed on precautionary suspension shortly after his death.
His mother, Thabisa Maqoqa, expressed her grief and sought clarity on the circumstances surrounding her son’s untimely demise. During a visit from a KwaZulu-Natal government delegation, she pleaded for answers.
“All I want is closure. My son showed no signs of illness or distress, and I just want to understand what happened," says Maqoqa
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from various medical trade unions. The Public Servants Association (PSA) labelled Dr Mazwi’s death as “tragic and preventable,” asserting that it reflects “systemic failures, a toxic work environment, and alleged emotional abuse.”
The union has strongly called for an independent investigation beyond the hospital's initial internal probe.
Meanwhile, the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (Hospersa) has called for immediate and urgent reforms.
“Dr Mazwi’s death is not just a tragedy; it is a damning reflection of a broken system. Interns are the future of our healthcare sector, yet they are being treated as expendable," says General Secretary Waheed Hoosen.
He emphasised that the health and safety of healthcare workers “must be a national priority.”