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Parliament, Saturday, 7 December 2024 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, welcomes the recent ruling by the Western Cape High Court to strike disgraced attorney Zuko Nonxuba from the roll of legal practitioners.
Dr Dhlomo said: “This decision is a significant step towards restoring integrity within the legal profession, particularly in areas that intersect with vulnerable communities.”
Dr Dhlomo added: “Mr Nonxuba's actions, which involved dishonesty and exploitation of client, particularly parents of children who suffered severe birth injuries represents a gross betrayal of trust. He was entrusted with the responsibility to advocate for these children and their families, yet he chose to prioritise personal gain over their welfare. The court’s findings reveal a troubling pattern of misconduct that not only harmed individual clients but also tarnished the reputation of the legal profession as a whole.”
In the health sector, continued Dr Dhlomo, the committee is acutely aware of the devastating impact that negligence can have on patients and their families. He said the ruling sends a clear message that such malfeasance will not be tolerated.
“Moreover, it is imperative that we continue to advocate for robust mechanisms to safeguard the interests of those we serve. The legal profession must hold its members accountable to prevent exploitation and to ensure that justice is served, especially to those who are most vulnerable”, added Dr Dhlomo.
Dr Dhlomo commended the Legal Practice Council for its diligent work in bringing Mr Nonxuba’s actions to light and for its commitment to upholding the standards of the legal profession.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE
CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, DR SIBONGISENI DHLOMO.
For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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