Web of Corruption: Babita Deokaran's Legacy Lives On

Three years after her brutal murder, the investigation into Tembisa Hospital's financial scandal advances, with officials facing disciplinary actions and criminal charges. Image: Khaya 959 (The Post News)- Three years have passed since the senseless murder of Babita Deokaran, a courageous whistleblower who exposed the deep-seated corruption at Tembisa Hospital. Her untimely death on August 23, 2021, sent shockwaves through the nation, but her legacy lives on as the investigation into the financial irregularities she uncovered gains momentum. Recent developments indicate that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has made significant progress in unraveling the complex web of corruption at Tembisa Hospital, with discrepancies totaling over R3 billion. Andy Mothibi, Head of the SIU, revealed that officials from the hospital may face disciplinary actions and criminal charges for their role in the financial scandal. Bishop Tony Haropersad, Deokaran's brother-in-law, emphasized that while the findings are a step in the right direction, the mastermind behind her assassination remains at large. Deokaran's evidence was instrumental in exposing the corruption, where officials had misused the quotation system and evaded procurement procedures. Her tireless efforts led to the identification of three syndicates and service providers involved in the crime, who will be targeted to recover the funds. Mothibi stressed that the staff at Tembisa Hospital implicated in the financial irregularities will face serious consequences, including disciplinary action for any misconduct and criminal prosecution to ensure accountability. The criminal investigation into Deokaran's murder is also well advanced, with the SIU working tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice. Deokaran's bravery and dedication to exposing corruption have left a lasting impact on the nation. Her legacy serves as a reminder that the fight against corruption is ongoing, and those who dare to speak out against it will be protected and remembered.