Premier Lesufi orders final push on delayed forensic facility
By: Tsietso Ngobeni
This morning, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, joined by MEC for Finance and Economic Development Lebogang Maile and HoD for Infrastructure Development, Masabata Mhlanga, conducted a high-level oversight visit at the Johannesburg Forensic Pathology Services (GFMS) laboratory at Helen Joseph Hospital. During the visit, the Premier issued a firm directive for a final push to complete the long-delayed facility.
The Premier Lesufi received a detailed presentation from the DID Project Manager, Thamsanqa Mashinini on the challenged internal project stakeholders and the contractor service providers including ongoing efforts to serve ongoing challenges and delays. The visit comes amid growing public concern over the facility which has missed several projected completion dates and parliamentary site inspections, raising concerns among key stakeholders and community groups.
To Premier Lesufi, "We are here not just to finish a building. It is about restoring dignity, upholding justice, and protecting the wellbeing of our communities. The delays have been unacceptable, and we will not tolerate further setbacks. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to deliver vital service, and we will hold all parties accountable to ensure timely completion, compliance, and functionality of this key facility."
Premier and his entourage conducted a walkthrough of the site, engaging in robust discussions on the root cause, solutions and timelines.
The Johannesburg Forensic Pathology Services laboratory is one of Africa's most advanced forensic lab facilities. The four-storey building is designed to house pathology laboratories and forensic mortuary policy investigations, toxicology and pathology examination services. The site holds five cold rooms for storing and processing bodies, viewing and autopsy rooms, and is housed in a secure clean room equipped with biometric access doors to safely contain hazardous pathogens.