Mphoko demands axing of corrupt hospital staff

VICE President Phelekezela Mphoko yesterday said corrupt officials at public hospitals such as Mpilo Central Hospital and the United Bulawayo Hospitals must be fired for fleecing patients.

According to local media, Mphoko said there was conflict of interest at some institutions as some officials ran businesses similar to that of their employer.

The VP said this while addressing residents in Area Two of Old Pumula suburb in Bulawayo where he handed over 2 900 day-old chicks.

VP Mphoko said he was dismayed by reports that some officials were sabotaging Government pharmacies at these institutions while running their own.

"Imali etshontshiweyo ayibusisekanga (stolen money is not blessed). There are thieves in our hospitals for instance Mpilo, UBH and Ingutsheni, professional thieves who are protected by law.

"There are consultation fees paid by patients when they visit hospitals . . . that money must be channelled towards buying medication but we don't know where that money is going," said VP Mphoko.

"There are elderly people and vulnerable people who are struggling to survive then we've people who are given responsibility to assist and instead they take advantage of these vulnerable people and make them pay exorbitant fees".