THE suspended director of Mental Health, Dr Makgabo Manamela was expected to appear before the Life Esidimeni Arbitration today at Parktown, Joburg.
However, this morning Manamela's lawyer, Lerato Mashilane told the tribunal that his client is requesting for a postponement to be granted.
Manamela is one of the three key witnesses including Former Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and H.O.D Barney Selebano, subpoenaed to give testimony on the execution of the Life Esidimeni Marathon Project that resulted in the deaths of over 100 mentally ill patients.
Mashilane said Manamela is a different witness from any other witnesses that has appeared before the hearing, and it would be unfair for her to answer any of the questions that will be posed to her without any documents on her disposal.
Mashilane said: "My client had been implicated by some witnesses. Any negative thing against my client might lead to her facing criminal prosecution. Therefore, should be given time to prepare thoroughly."
Mashilane added that Manamela's laptop consisting information related to this matter had been confiscated by the Gauteng Head of Health Department, Dr Ernest Kenoshi after her suspension.
"Manamela has requested documents from the health department so that the public can know each and everything that has transpired," said Mashilane.
The Legal Representatives of the families opposed the application.
They indicated that Manamela was part of the project and should have knowledge and not rely on documents.
Furthermore, Manamela should carry the cost of postponement.
The presiding Justice Dikgang Moseneke said Manamela had enough time to prepare because the subpoena was issued on the 2nd of November and she is wasting the tribunal's time.
