The Health Professions Council (HPCSA) has condemend the actions of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu)’s action of violence and intimidation against health care workers as the strike entered its fifth day on Friday. The workers are demanding wage increase of 10 to 12% while the government is only offering 4,7 %.

DENYING PATIENTS ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

The HPCSA said denying patients and health care workers access to health care was an infringement of human rights. The strike which started on Monday has spread throughout the country and violent incidents have been reported. There are also reports of intimidation of health care workers who are not reporting for duty and not part of the the strike. There have also been reports of patients losing their lives as they were turned away from health facilities while some were turned back while in ambulances.

INFRINGEMENT OF RIGHTS

HPCSA President Professor Simon Nemutandani said the council strongly condemns the conduct displayed by some of the striking workers. "The provision of healthcare is an essential service, and the public has the right to access these basic human rights services as guaranteed by the Constitution. As the council, we have a responsibility of ensuring the protection and safety of members of the public and healthcare workers registered with them." Nemutandani said. He added that the violent actions related to the strike will have a negative impact on the healthcare services that are being provided at different hospitals by health practitioners. " Workers have a right to embark on a peaceful strike action without compromising the lives and well-being of healthcare workers, patients, and members of the public,” he added. 

ARRESTS

At least 7 protesters have been arrested since the strike started. National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said: “In the Northern Cape, one person was arrested in Galeshewe for throwing feaces at the entrance of the home affairs offices. A case of malicious damage to property was registered. In the Free State, three people were arrested at Pelonomi Hospital for blocking the main entrance to the hospital. All three have been charged with public violence. In the North West, three females aged 32, 49 and 56 were arrested for public violence. They were found burning tyres along the James Moroka Road in Potchefstroom,”