By OBAKENG MAJE

The North West Premier, Bushy Maape has reinstated the North West Department of Health’s Head, Obakeng Mongale who was on suspension since October 2023. Mongale was suspended following his arrest over matters connected to his previous duties as HoD of North West Public Works and Roads.

Maape said the suspension was granted under such circumstances that is prescribed to last for 60 days and may be extended, if there are exceptional circumstances supporting such an extension.

“After extensive consultation and obtaining legal advice, I determined that there are no valid exceptional legal reasons to extend the special leave of Mongale. As a consequence, he will resume his duties with effect from 8 January 2024.

“ I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Mmadipuo Tlhogane, who acted as Superintendent General and Head of Department and kept the department focused on its service delivery mandate whilst Mongale was on special leave,” he said.

Maape further said he would also like to extend his gratitude to the North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha, for his leadership and guidance during this unprecedented development in the department.

He added that, all necessary arrangements have been made to allow for a smooth handover process as the substantive SG resumes his duties.

“The Office of the Premier will continue to monitor the situation in the department and inform the public of any further decision if any new developments arise.

The return of Mongale from special leave does not stop the ongoing work by the Office of the Premier to interrogate all documentation and reports linked to the case he is facing,” said Maape.

He said his office has obtained sufficient information linked to the case of Mongale and can assure the public that, there is no risk of interference with the case. Maape said once the team in the Office of the Premier concludes its assessment, he will consider any further recommendations regarding the future of Mongale and inform the public accordingly.

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