The CEO of Madadeni Hospital in Newcastle has been summoned to appear before the Legislature's health committee after a doctor was arrested for sexual assault.
Image: File image
The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature’s Health Portfolio Committee has moved to tighten oversight at Madadeni Hospital in Newcastle following the arrest of a doctor accused of sexually assaulting multiple female patients.
The committee, chaired by Dr Imran Keeka, said it viewed the allegations with “grave concern”, particularly given the vulnerability of patients in public healthcare facilities.
A 69-year-old doctor was arrested on April 28 at his workplace by Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) detectives, working alongside local police. The arrest followed allegations that he sexually assaulted at least four female patients between August 2025 and April 2026
According to police, the suspect allegedly inappropriately touched victims and, in some instances, forced them to perform sexual acts. The case came to light after a whistleblower alerted authorities, prompting an investigation that led to formal charges being laid.
The accused, who cannot be named until he pleads, has already appeared in the Madadeni Magistrate’s Court, facing multiple counts related to the alleged incidents. Police indicated that additional charges could be added if more victims come forward.
While acknowledging that the matter is now before the courts, Keeka stressed that legal proceedings should not delay administrative accountability.
“Respect for the judicial process cannot become a shield for administrative inaction or weak accountability,” he said.
The committee has summoned the Chief Executive Officer of Madadeni Hospital to appear before it on 15 May 2026. The session is expected to scrutinise the hospital’s response to the allegations and evaluate whether adequate safeguards are in place to protect patients.
Keeka said the committee would assess both the actions taken so far and the effectiveness of existing protocols designed to prevent abuse within healthcare settings.
“We urge any additional victims to come forward so that all allegations may be properly investigated and justice served,” he added.
The committee also emphasised that consequences for misconduct must extend beyond criminal prosecution. It signalled its intent to ensure that professional regulatory bodies take appropriate action where necessary.
“The safety and dignity of patients in our public health facilities are non-negotiable,” Keeka said.
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