The inquest concluded in November last year. Eight years ago, 144 mental healthcare users tragically died after they had been moved from Life Esidimeni, a highly specialised, long-term psychiatric care hospital, to ill-equipped and unlicensed Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) and community care facilities.

The tragedy has been described as one of the biggest human rights violations in democratic South Africa.

The victims’ families are hoping that justice will be served.

Many of the patients died from starvation, dehydration, and neglect.

Civil rights group, Section 27 wants former Head of Gauteng Mental Health Services Dr Mmakgabo Manamela, former Gauteng Health Member of Executive Counsil Qedani Mahlangu, and Ethel Ncube, the owner of Precious Angels, the NGO where 20 patients died, to be charged with culpable homicide, while AfriForum wants the court to recommend murder charges.

Judge Mmonoa Teffo presided over the inquiry. “I want to thank every one of you who has made their submissions to this inquest court. I believe and trust they will assist this court to make proper findings.

“The proceedings for today and the hearing of evidence for this matter have now been concluded. What is left is for the court to make its findings and recommendations,” said Teffo.

--SABC--