Pretoria – The North West Department of Health has placed its Director of Advocacy, Social Mobilisation and Communication on precautionary suspension following a preliminary investigation into the procurement of baby formula milk and the subsequent failure to distribute the milk before its expiration.
Provincial Health spokesperson Tebogo Lekgethwane said the suspension of Cornelius Lebeloe was effective from today.
“Mr Lebeloe, the then director responsible for HIV and AIDS in the province was suspended for his alleged role in the procurement of baby formula milk. The department has written to Mr Lebeloe and two more senior managers to explain their role in the procurement and processes that led to baby formula milk being incinerated.
“Based on what the preliminary investigations revealed a decision was then taken to suspend Mr Lebeloe,” said Lekgethwane.
Earlier this year, media reports claimed that the provincial health department had bought R7 million worth of baby milk formula but failed to distribute it for three years. It then spent almost R2 million to incinerate the expired milk. The milk was believed to have expired between August and December 2013.
Lekgethwane said the investigation into the matter would continue and further findings would inform further action the department will take with regard to other two senior officials.
“[Mr Lebeloe] will remain on suspension while a full investigation continues. However, it is important to note that he has not been found guilty.” – SAnews.gov.za
