Human Rights Commission subpoenas Eastern Cape Health boss

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has subpeanaed the Head of the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Dr. Rolene Wagner to appear before the provincial office due to systemic failures in the Eastern Cape healthcare services today.

The subpoena arises from the Commission’s ongoing investigations into systemic failures in the provision of public healthcare services across the Eastern Cape Province, following numerous complaints it has received from various complainants.

According to a statement released by the SAHRC, the complaints reflect recurring and widespread challenges across several healthcare facilities in both rural and urban areas.

These complaints include, among others, unsafe and dilapidated infrastructure, shortages of healthcare professionals, limited access to essential medication and treatment, prolonged water shortages at healthcare facilities, clinic closures without adequate interim arrangements, and alleged procedural unfairness affecting vulnerable patients.

“These challenges raise serious concerns regarding the protection and fulfilment of several constitutional rights, including the right to access to healthcare services, human dignity, life, equality, and freedom and security of the person,” read the statement.

The statement further states that despite sustained engagement by the Commission with the department through written correspondence requesting information, explanations and remedial action, the Commission has not received adequate responses addressing the concerns raised.

“The Commission has therefore invoked its subpoena powers to secure accountability, obtain clear explanations, and ensure meaningful engagement with the department.

According to the statement, the Commission has directed the Department to provide detailed written and oral responses addressing the matters raised and measures to remedy these challenges and prevent recurrence.

“Failure to comply with the subpoena without just cause constitutes an offence in terms of section 22 of the SAHRC Act and may result in fines or imprisonment.”