Dr Phophi Ramathuba’s alleged misconduct inquiry postponed
The case stems from a video filmed in August 2022 where Ramathuba tells a Zimbabwean patient that accessing Limpopo's healthcare system without payment imposes an unfair burden on the province.
POLOKWANE – The inquiry into the Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba’s alleged professional misconduct has been postponed to August 2025, when the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) is expected to present its key witness.
The case stems from a video filmed in August 2022 during Ramathuba’s visit to a hospital as Health MEC. In the footage, she tells a Zimbabwean patient that accessing Limpopo’s healthcare system without payment imposes an unfair burden on the province.
Read more: “You are killing my health system” – Health MEC tells Zim patient
Several organisations, including Lawyers for Human Rights, Section 27, and the Helen Suzman Foundation, lodged complaints, arguing the comments fuelled xenophobia and hate speech.
During the hearing held in Gauteng on Thursday, the complainants stated that the video’s circulation on social media exacerbated hostility toward foreign nationals.
They argued Ramathuba could have distanced herself from the video but chose not to.
Ramathuba’s legal counsel countered that the video was recorded without her consent and that her remarks were made in her capacity as MEC, not as a healthcare provider.
Her team also highlighted her history of assisting foreign nationals, citing an example where she provided aid to individuals involved in a car accident.
The video, originally posted on the Department of Health’s social media page, sparked widespread debate. In the footage, Ramathuba is heard saying:
“You speak Shona? Then how do you find yourself in Bela-Bela when you are supposed to be with Mnangagwa? You’re killing my health system… That is why when my people want health services, they can’t get them. This is unfair.”
The ANC in Limpopo has publicly supported Ramathuba, with provincial secretary Reuben Madadzhe expressing support during a press briefing last Wednesday at Frans Mohlala House.
The inquiry will continue in August 2025, allowing both sides to prepare for further deliberations.
