Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier of Limpopo, has strongly criticised some nurses at Mahwelereng Clinic after reportedly finding staff “lazing around” during an oversight visit on Thursday.
Ramathuba visited the clinic, located in the Waterberg District, as part of the province’s Service Delivery Week programme, aimed at assessing service standards at public facilities.
During the visit, the Premier reportedly expressed frustration after learning that although nurses allegedly arrive at work around 07:00, patients are only attended to from around 09:00, after staff have had tea.
The allegations have sparked concern about patient care and waiting times at public health facilities, particularly as many residents rely heavily on clinics for access to medical services.
Ramathuba condemned what she described as poor work ethic among some staff members, stressing the importance of professionalism and timely healthcare delivery.
Her comments are likely to fuel broader discussions around service delivery challenges in the public healthcare system.
