Lesufi commits to compensating families of Life Esidimeni victims

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi says they intend to finalise all Life Esidimeni claims by the end of the 2025/2026 financial year.

Lesufi addressed the Gauteng Provincial Legislature sitting in Johannesburg. Last month, the High Court in Pretoria ruled that former Gauteng Health MEC, Qedani Mahlangu, and former Gauteng Mental Health Head, Makgabo Manamela, acted negligently which led to the death of 144 patients from the facility.

The Gauteng government was also ordered to pay various costs and damages to the families of the deceased patients.

Lesufi has reiterated his commitment to use a portion of the budget allocation to compensate the families of the Life Esidimeni victims.

“The judgment on Life Esidemeni should serve as a lesson to all of us to respect and protect the rights of the weak and vulnerable in our society. We intend to finalise all Life Esidimeni claims by the end of the 2025/26 financial year. This matter, now concluded in court with a clear ruling on accountability, will culminate in the completion of the Life Esidimeni Monument by the Gauteng Provincial Government.”

Life Esidimeni inquest | Judgment Delivery