Nehawu opposes Dr Thami Mayise's return amid misconduct allegations

The National Education Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) is disapproving of the proposed return of Dr Thami Mayise as CEO of Victoria Mxenge Hospital, following ongoing allegations of misconduct and workplace bullying against him.

On Monday, Nehawu's Secretary, Prince Manthane, outlined the union's stance regarding their opposition to Dr Mayise's return. He asserted that the decision to reinstate the doctor was fraught with risks and threatened to undermine the fragile peace at the institution.

In September 2023, Nehawu submitted a memorandum of demands to the Department of Health, where they raised concerns about Mayise's conduct as CEO and called for accountability regarding his alleged actions.

Following the complaints, an investigation was launched. Initial recommendations pointed towards his removal from office to allow for an unobstructed inquiry.

However, Manthane revealed that despite the union's submissions, there has been a lack of communication regarding the investigation's findings. “We were never called back about the findings of the investigation.

We only learned last week that he is due to return on December 1 (Monday),” he said, expressing their frustration at not being kept abreast of developments.

Upon learning of Mayise's planned return, workers stated firmly that it would result in "no work that is going to be done," as they viewed his leadership as detrimental to their working environment.

Manthane is of the view that the Department of Health may have reconsidered its decision to reinstate Mayise to his previous position at the hospital after the stance the union had taken. He said that Mayise remained suspended or on a professional transfer.

Manthane reiterated that Nehawu was opposed to Mayise's return. “The doctor must not return to that hospital," he said, reasoning that it would reverse the progress made in establishing a cooperative relationship between management and organised labour at the facility.

The department's spokesperson, Agiza Hlongwane, did not provide a response to the Daily News at the time of publication.

DAILY NEWS