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Media Statement: The South African Human Rights Commission condemns the brutal assault and abuse of a minor patient at the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital in Kwa-Zulu Natal
04 October 2023
Attention: Editors and Reporters
The South African Human Rights Commission’s (“the Commission”) Kwa-Zulu Natal Provincial Office conducted a visit to the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital yesterday as part of its investigation into the assault and abuse of a minor patient who is also a mental health care user. The Commission’s investigation emanated from a video recording of the assault which has been widely circulated on various media platforms.
Attention: Editors and Reporters
The South African Human Rights Commission’s (“the Commission”) Kwa-Zulu Natal Provincial Office conducted a visit to the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital yesterday as part of its investigation into the assault and abuse of a minor patient who is also a mental health care user. The Commission’s investigation emanated from a video recording of the assault which has been widely circulated on various media platforms.
The Commission’s team met with the Hospital’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Phule, who confirmed the incident and that an investigation is currently underway by the Department of Health against all those officials involved in the said incident.
The Commission strongly condemns this cruel and inhumane conduct of the perpetrators which prima facie appears to be a violation of a number of human rights applicable to children, mental health care users and to all patients in general. Some of these rights include the intrinsic right to human dignity, protection from all forms of violence and not to be treated in a degrading manner.
The Commission’s aims to ensure the protection, attainment, and observance of human rights where these have been violated and to secure appropriate redress for those affected.
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For further information contact SAHRC KZN Provincial Manager, Ms. Pavershree Padayachee on Tel: 031 304 7323 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.
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