​Koketso Maraba
 
The Gauteng Department of Health's Advisory Appeals Committee (AAC) plays a pivotal role in promoting ethical leadership, sound governance, and fair dispute resolution within the provincial health system.
This was reaffirmed by MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, during a strategic stakeholder engagement workshop held on Friday, 5 September 2025. The MEC underscored the committee's critical contribution to the department's operations and its commitment to upholding integrity and accountability.
The workshop convened AAC members, departmental officials, and key stakeholders to review the committee's performance for the period January to June 2025. Discussions focused on enhancing governance, streamlining internal processes, and ensuring alignment with relevant legislation and policy frameworks.
The MEC highlighted the AAC's central role in managing labour appeals and private hospital licensing, noting that these functions directly influence the efficiency of healthcare services and the well-being of staff.
"These responsibilities have a direct bearing on the operations of our healthcare facilities and the welfare of our employees," she said.
Established in July 2022, the AAC provides strategic oversight and ensures that decisions are guided by fairness, legal compliance, and the principles of good governance. The MEC commended the committee's efforts in fostering trust among stakeholders and the broader community.
A notable development discussed was the inclusion of Human Resources and Labour Relations officials as ex-officio participants in AAC meetings since late 2024. This collaboration has strengthened internal coordination and communication, leading to more informed and equitable decision-making.
However, the workshop also addressed pressing concerns, particularly the high number of misconduct cases, with abscondment being a recurring issue. The MEC stressed the need to improve the implementation of the Public Service Act and labour policy resolutions to reduce procedural errors and promote fair outcomes.
"We must deepen our understanding of these legal frameworks to ensure our actions uphold employee rights and preserve the department's integrity," she said.
The workshop served as a platform for reflection, knowledge-sharing, and identifying areas for improvement to enhance the AAC's operational effectiveness. The MEC encouraged open dialogue and the sharing of insights to strengthen the committee's future impact.
Advocate Fezeka Magano added depth to the discussion, reminding participants of the broader responsibilities of presiding officers in disciplinary processes.
"When you serve as a presiding officer in an employer's disciplinary process, your conduct must reflect institutional values. While you have independence in managing the hearing, your primary duty is to uphold fairness and adhere to legal procedures," she said.
She further noted that presiding officers must consider not only the facts of each case but also the wider implications for the employer, the workforce, and public trust. In public institutions, these considerations extend to societal values and national development goals.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko concluded by expressing her appreciation for the committee's continued dedication.
"Your commitment to ethical leadership and good governance is essential to earning the confidence of our staff, our partners, and the communities we serve," she said.