Department of Health denies involvement in Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma's dismissal from Vuma FM
The Department of Health in KwaZulu-Natal has distanced itself from allegations that it is behind the removal of Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma from Vuma FM.
On Sunday, the multi-award-winning radio host revealed in a media statement that she had received a letter last Tuesday stating that her employment was being terminated. Ngobese joined Vuma FM back in 2019.
In her statement, she said there were no reasons for the termination.
“It has come to my attention that a complaint was brought by an external entity or an individual, I shall not deal with the details of that complaint at this stage,” she said.
She added that she was appreciative of the opportunity by Vuma FM’s management, and further thanked the listeners who had become friends and family.
“I will keep you and the memories we shared in my heart forever, my last day at work is 31 July, until then let’s continue making great radio,” she said.
Responding to the backlash on social media following Ngobese-Zuma’s dismissal, the department said it played no part in her removal.
“We categorically state that the Department has no authority, influence, or interest in the employment matters of any media house or entity outside of our jurisdiction. Any suggestion of our involvement in the termination of the presenter is entirely false and without merit. We respect the autonomy of all independent organisations, including Vuma FM, in making their internal staffing decisions,” the department said.
It added that the allegations stem from misinformation.
Ngobese-Zuma is the founder of March and March movement, a group of people protesting against undocumented nationals accessing healthcare and other services in the country.
The civic organisation has in recent weeks taken part in protests around the country, calling on the government to fight harder against illegal immigration.
However, the movement has come under fire from the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
The Commission said the right to access healthcare services in SA is a universal right afforded to everyone within the country’s borders, as enshrined in the Constitution.
The SAHRC said it was concerned about people taking the law into their own hands and making it difficult for people to access medical care due to their nationality.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
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