Two weeks after receiving his suspension letter, there has still been no date set for Vusi Mlambo’s internal hearing.

Mlambo was suspended on May 5 for what the department termed “leaking information to the media”, however, Barberton Times has since learnt that he allegedly called in during a live Ligwalagwala FM current-affairs show. It was broadcast on September 24 last year and the topic was about the alleged irregular employment of 38 general workers.

The department of health spokesman, Ronnie Masilela was a guest on the day. It was reported that during the show, an anonymous caller commented on the alleged appointment that had taken place at public institution.

Those few seconds landed Mlambo in hot water. He has already served two weeks in suspension. Masilela, who had previously declined to specify the charges, admitted that he was on the show that day.

“Many people called in that day and I don’t know if Mlambo did as well. I was there to represent the department regarding the allegations of irregular appointments,” he said.

Meanwhile, the four suspended workers who were part of the interviewing panel allegedly implicated in the “jobs-for-pals” scheme, will attend the internal disciplinary hearing on Thursday.

The case against Sunday Myeni and Muzi Shongwe of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union, Thembi Zulu of the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa and Edna Godi of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa, who have been on suspension since last October, was postponed on May 6 because the employer chief witness was not present.

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