MONDAY: 31st MARCH 2025
DURBAN – The Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa (DENOSA) in KwaZulu-Natal expresses its utmost disappointment and concern over the reckless and unfounded statements made by the leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in KZN, Dr Imran Keeka. His assertion that frontline healthcare workers are to blame for the current shortage of medication in public health facilities is both misleading and irresponsible.
As an organization representing healthcare workers, we strongly condemn these ill-informed accusations, which unfairly target an already overburdened and understaffed workforce, particularly nurses. Such statements add fuel to an already volatile situation, where our colleagues continue to face violence and verbal abuse from certain elements of society—despite their unwavering commitment to serving under difficult and often hostile conditions.
It is imperative to clarify that nurses are not responsible for ordering medication from central supply stores or pharmacies. They can only dispense what is available at their respective facilities. The ongoing medication shortages have been exacerbated by the controversial Circular No. G77 of 2024, which centralized the procurement of medical supplies at the district level. DENOSA has previously engaged with the Head of Department (HoD) on this matter and submitted recommendations for the withdrawal of this circular. Regrettably, our appeals were rejected.
In light of these developments, DENOSA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of its members. We will not tolerate further abuse or victimization of healthcare workers who have long been subjected to undue blame for systemic failures within the public healthcare sector.
DEMANDS:
Given the seriousness of this matter, DENOSA demands the following actions:
- An urgent investigation to establish the basis for these reckless and baseless statements, with a public retraction and unconditional apology from Dr Keeka.
- A firm commitment that no further defamatory remarks will be directed at nurses for issues beyond their control.
- Immediate intervention by the Department of Health to address this matter as a priority.
Frontline healthcare workers deserve respect and support, not scapegoating for broader systemic challenges. DENOSA will continue to advocate for a fair and just working environment for all healthcare professionals.
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Issued by: Andile Mbeje – DENOSA KZN Provincial Secretary – 072 553 1636
