EDITORIAL | Lesufi’s pledge on hospital treatment crosses a new ethical low

As election season approaches, political parties unveil their wishlists which are much like Pinterest profiles — housing, education, poverty eradication and more make it on to there, but we know it may take a while, if ever, for these things to be obtained.

It's a familiar scene, with politicians engaging in out-of-character gestures to win favour. This year is no exception.

In some of the pre-election pictures that have gone viral, President Cyril Ramaphosa was seen cradling a toddler, and in another, ANC members were seen assisting a roadside hairstylist with braiding a client's hair all the while campaigning for their beloved party.

Yellow, black and green T-shirts bearing Ramaphosa's face abound.

However, Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi's recent campaign promises veer into the realm of fantasy.

During a recent meeting, Lesufi pledged that post-May 29 2024, citizens could access top-tier medical care at any hospital or clinic, with the government footing the bill. He decried subpar service and mistreatment at public health facilities, offering a vision of radical change. This grand proclamation, however, rings hollow.

“After the 29th May 2024, you can go to any hospital of your choice, whether it’s a private hospital or a public hospital or a private clinic and get the best experts to treat you and after treating you the government will pay the bill,” Lesufi said. 

Sadly, those around Lesufi gasped and clapped as they believed this. 

He said: “Gone are the days that when you don't have medical aid you must die. Gone are the days where when you don't have medical aid you must be mistreated.”

Lesufi's track record, particularly in his role of Gauteng premier, includes a notable achievement of ridding the province with a great thorn on many motorists side — E-tolls - and while this was a noteworthy delivery of promise, his dubious healthcare promise smells of desperation to garner votes for the ANC, no matter the costs. 

The DA has swiftly denounced Lesufi's claims, rightly pointing out the impracticality given the unimplemented NHI Bill and budget constraints.

This departure from reality is disheartening, particularly given Lesufi's previous dedication to public service. As former MEC of education in Gauteng, he tackled racism and improved disadvantaged schools. But his latest move raises questions about integrity under pressure.

With voters expressing discontent over job scarcity, corruption, and power outages, politicians resort to sweeping promises. However, Lesufi's pledge crosses a new ethical low. Access to quality health care is a fundamental right, not a bargaining chip.

In a bid to make himself look good, Lesufi also points out the failure of his fellow comrades — serving under him — at the health ministry.

Dangling such vital services as election bait paints a damning picture of self-serving politics. It's a shameful exploitation of the most vulnerable.