THE government has agreed to compensate the families affected by the Life Esidimeni tragedy.
Former Constitutional Court deputy chief justice Dikgang Moseneke announced this yesterday at the Emoyeni conference centre in Parktown, Joburg.
“Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi have agreed to the legal claims of the families,” said Moseneke.
More than 100 mental patients died from
neglect last year. This came after the Gauteng Department of Health moved them from Life Esidimeni facilities to unsuitable, and in some cases illegal, non-governmental organisations.
Moseneke said at least 60 families out of a potential 110 had come forward for the arbitration process, which is aimed at helping the government and families come to an agreement over compensation.
But Mirriam Monyane (67), who lost her son Thabo (32), said getting justice was what mattered most to her.
“It won’t bring back my son, but at least I will find comfort in knowing his death was not in vain,” said Mirriam, referring to the compensation.
