Gauteng Health HOD suspended as Premier Lesufi vows to root out maladministration

Zuko Komisa

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has immediately suspended the Head of Health, Lesiba Arnold Malotana, to ensure stability and accountability in the critical department.
Dr Darion Barclay, the current CoGTA head, has been appointed as Acting Head of Health and Wellness to guarantee continuity in service delivery.
The move underscores the provincial government’s commitment to rooting out maladministration and supports ongoing investigations by the SIU.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has placed the Head of the Department of Health and Wellness, Mr Lesiba Arnold Malotana, on immediate suspension, effective today, 14 October 2025.

The swift action was announced in a press statement released by the Premier’s Office, which simultaneously outlined measures to ensure stability within the critical provincial department.

In an effort to guarantee stability and continuity, the Premier has appointed Dr Darion Barclay as the Acting Head of the Department of Health and Wellness.

The Gauteng Provincial Government concluded its statement by reaffirming its full support for the work of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and other law enforcement agencies. It stressed the administration’s continued resolve, stating:

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to root out maladministration and to uphold the highest standards of accountability and ethical leadership.”