POLOKWANE – Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Health MEC Eddie Maila have defended the rollout of 147 mobile clinic vehicles, rejecting claims that the launch was an election gimmick.

The launch has drawn criticism from opposition parties and some community members, who have questioned why the vehicles were unveiled less than a week before the November 4 local government elections. Some have argued that the timing could create the perception that government resources are being used for election campaigning.

Government rejects election claims

Ramathuba dismissed claims that the timing of the launch was politically motivated. She said the delivery was the result of long-term budgeting and specialised vehicle engineering rather than political posturing.

“For those who are saying it must be elections every year, we just want to remind you that for us to be able to deliver this massive, it’s for the first time that you are making history, Team Health. For us to be having this number of mobile clinics unleashed in just one financial year, it’s for the first time,” Ramathuba said.

She said government had committed to procuring the vehicles two years ago and that the project could not be completed overnight.

“It needed planning, it needed a specific design, because you can’t just walk into a vehicle and get this ready-made. It had to be designed the way it is,” Ramathuba said.

According to Ramathuba, the acquisition required planning across financial years, making it impossible to fast-track the project simply for political point-scoring.

Healthcare challenges remain

However, the rollout comes as the Limpopo Department of Health continues to face operational challenges. While the administration celebrates the new fleet, healthcare workers say conditions on the ground remain challenging.

Labour groups and unions have repeatedly raised concerns over staff shortages, long working hours and working conditions in public healthcare facilities. They argue that while the additional mobile clinics are welcome, addressing the province’s broader healthcare challenges will also require sustained investment in staffing and healthcare infrastructure.