Statement issued by Bongani Msomi. UDM Secretary General
As the United Democratic Movement (UDM), we are stunned by the dire situation of ARV treatment shortage for HIV positive patients in the Free State province. The problem has led to many patients defaulting on their treatment as they have not received medication since October last year while at some parts of the province the problem began as early as June.
We cannot fold our arms and watch while innocent lives are suffering and denied an access to their basic right to health. Patients cannot afford to stop taking Anti-retrovirals after have already started in taking them because this will put them in danger of developing resistance to the drugs. Such scenario affects CD 4 count negatively
This has gotten out of hand. UDM is calling upon the Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi to walk the talk that his government is changing lives for the better. A speedy intervention to resolve this crisis is needed. Our people deserve better. With more than 20 years into democracy we cannot have such situation where the masses are not taken care of.
It is high time that the government and stakeholders involved come up with a lasting solution in the Province. The Minister must also institute a Commission of Inquiry on the failure of officials to execute the plan of the Department. This is a disgrace and embarrassment to the Nation.
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