The announcement was made on Thursday by the department’s HOD, Godfrey Mahlatsi, while addressing the hospital’s healthcare workers who have downed tools to strike for safer and healthier working conditions.

Mahlatsi explained that the decision was not influenced by the strike, as the department treats their employees with respect and they will not bow under pressure just to trample on other people’s rights. The department sees it fit to rearrange the management of the institution and the matter is being treated with sensitivity.

ALSO READ: Pelonomi employees vow to not return to work

“The decision was made prior to the strike. She knows and she can attest to the fact that we have had engagements with her before. The strike just happens to come after our decision. We did not want to announce it the way we have but we understand that there is a need for us to transform the management of this institution and it is our responsibility to do so.”

VIDEOGRAPHER: Lucky Nkuyane

Mahlatsi further explained that the department has given her time to come to terms with the decision. As the department, they wish not to say much about her as an individual, especially to the public about matters of employer and employee relation.

ALSO READ: Pelonomi staff members issue management with ultimatum

The National Health Allied Workers Union's (Nehawu) provincial chairperson, Moeketsi Napo, previously told OFM News that the union met with the department on Wednesday to discuss the issues its affiliated members have. Napo said serious issues, such as the redeployment or removal of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), must be expedited; outstanding overtime monies must be paid; and the shortage of staff, including nurses and security guards, must be addressed.

The Union's Mangaung Branch Secretary, Thabo Nkomo, on Wednesday said that workers are hell bent and wishes to stop at nothing until their demands are heard and addressed by management. Workers are accusing the provincial management of flaunting the healthcare and safety protocols which they claim pose a significant threat to the workers' lives.

WATCH: Standstill at parts of Pelonomi continues

The Heidedal Policlinic, which is situated inside the premises of the Pelonomi Hospital, was still not operating on Thursday due to the continuous strike of the hospital workers. The strike has caused an interruption in some areas of the hospital.

The Department’s spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi, previously said the strike will put the lives of the patients at risk.

OFM News