The office of the Director of the Public Prosecutions (DPP), Sibongile Mzinyathi, has responded to a poignant memorandum advocating for justice and accountability for the victims of the Life Esidimeni tragedy. This memorandum, delivered by Section 27—an organisation that passionately represents the families affected—was accepted during a meeting at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) headquarters in Pretoria on Tuesday.
In 2016, the tragic transfer of more than 1,700 psychiatric patients from Life Esidimeni to inadequate care facilities led to the deaths of over 141 individuals due to starvation and neglect, while many others went missing. Survivors have since disclosed harrowing accounts of trauma and mistreatment, underscoring the intense suffering experienced within these facilities.
Section 27, in its memorandum, calls on the NPA to expedite prosecution proceedings that would hold accountable those responsible for this horrific series of human rights violations. The NPA has assured the public that it is in the process of making a thorough and informed decision regarding the future of this case.
Describing the Life Esidimeni matter as “the greatest cause of human rights violations” under South Africa’s democratic governance, the NPA emphasised the need for the courts to ascertain the causes of death among the victims and to determine if any party involved bears criminal responsibility. “It is critical that the decision taken is one that will ensure justice and closure for the families of the victims, and the public at large,” the NPA stated.
Earlier in July, Pretoria High Court Judge Mmonoa Teffo ruled that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and former head of mental health in the province, Makgabo Manamela, should face prosecution regarding the tragedy. The ruling amplified calls for accountability and ignited discussions around the state’s obligation to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
However, the NPA cautioned that the outcome of the inquest does not automatically translate to a readily actionable trial case, as further criminal investigations may still need to ensue. Nonetheless, the authority has made it clear that the matter remains a priority, with decisions forthcoming in due course.