A man accused of assaulting a nurse at Relela Clinic in Limpopo on Friday, has pleaded guilty. Thirty-year-old Promise Lebepe, appeared briefly at the Kgapane Magistrates Court on Monday, where he was also denied bail.  

A HARSHER SENTENCE  

Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba said the attack on health care professionals is not acceptable and an example needed to be set. "We are happy that the court has denied the accused bail as this is what we have been calling for. We believe that this will serve as a deterrent to those who still think of attacking our healthcare professionals," she said. Ramathuba said during their budget vote, she announced that Relela Clinic would start rendering 24-hour services. "However, this incident will, unfortunately, result in regression on this positive move and innocent people being denied access to healthcare. We cannot sacrifice the health of the nation because of one individual; hence, our call for severe and harsher sentences, "she said.  

IMPATIENT  

It is alleged that Lebepe visited the clinic last Wednesday to get a sick note to produce to his employer, despite the fact that he did not consult at the clinic but bought medication at the chemist. He stormed intp the consultation room, where the nurse was busy assisting another patient and demanded to be assisted. The nurse requested him to queue just like any other person, but he insisted. When the nurse didn't agree to see him, he dragged her by her skirt and assaulted her. The nurse was taken to Van Velden Hospital and she is in a stable condition. The matter will be back in court on May 2 and Lebepe will remain in custody.