Former head of HPCSA quits ANC over NHI issues

World-renowned health expert and former president of the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA), Dr Kgosi Letlape, has resigned from the African National Congress (ANC) over what is suspected to be a difference of opinion with the Government on the National Health Insurance (NHI).

Letlape resigned from the ruling party with immediate effect. According to recent public comments, the healthcare activist accused the Government of opening another stream of swindling funds with the NHI, which received a boost of R1,3 billion from the National Treasury.

NHI IS ‘NEW NEST TO EAT FROM’, SAYS LETLAPE

“NHI, as proposed, is going to be for those employed, not on medical aid being taxed. Why can’t they get their ducks in a row and understand that their responsibility is to all South Africans, not to create new nest eggs to eat from?” Letkape told The Voice of the Cape.

“This doesn’t make sense; it defies logic, and if anyone thinks what is being proposed is a reform, no; what is being proposed is a new fund to eat from,” Letlape said.

‘CURRENT VALUES AND PRINCIPLES OF ANC NOT ALIGNED TO MINE’ – NHLEKO

The decision by Letlape came after the resignation of the former Minister of Police, Nathi Nhleko, from the ANC. In a letter to senior ANC leaders, Nhleko said he was unhappy with Mbalula and the party.

“Consequently, and regrettably, I resign from this ANC as its current values and principles are not aligned with mine,” said Nhleko in his resignation letter.

DIFFICULT TO CONTINUE TO WATCH PEOPLE SUFFER DUE TO ANC FAILURES, SAYS NHLEKO

He said: It is difficult to continue watching people in my community and all over our country suffer because of the failures of an organisation that I am part and parcel of and can’t do much to serve their lives for the better.”

Nhleko slammed Mbalula and described him as the worst secretary-general in the 112-year history of the ANC.