The controversy stems from accusations circulated online by a figure linked to the so-called “MKP Labour Desk.” The department said these claims form part of a wider attempt to tarnish the reputation of Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and the hospital.

According to the department, the Nursing Manager post had been advertised twice without finding a suitable candidate who met equity requirements. To maintain continuity, Dr. Ndemera — a Critical Care Specialist Nurse with a PhD in Nephrology — was asked to act in the role.

Dr. Ndemera has worked at IALCH since before 2015, has lived legally in South Africa for more than 25 years, speaks fluent Zulu and Venda, and currently serves as Assistant Nursing Manager for Critical Care. The department stressed that MEC Simelane had no involvement in the process and had never met Dr. Ndemera before the defamatory claims emerged.

The department also denied suggestions that public funds were misused for a Christmas party, clarifying that the event was covered by declared external sponsorship and that the MEC did not attend.

“These fabrications are a clear attempt to politicise the health sector and discredit the MEC and the Department,” the statement said, urging the public to be cautious about unverified information spread by self-styled “news agencies.”

Despite financial challenges, the department said IALCH continues to function as a centre of excellence under its acting CEO, delivering quality care to patients in KwaZulu-Natal. It added that it would pursue legal avenues to protect both its integrity and that of its officials.

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