The Democratic Alliance (DA) on Monday called on the Gauteng government to appoint former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela as legal representative for the families of the 94 patients who died in the Esidimeni tragedy.

This after Health Ombudsman Malegapuru Makgoba on Wednesday recommended to Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi and the Gauteng Premier David Makhura that a "credible prominent South African" be appointed to provide redress and compensation to the families involved.

In a statement, the DA Gauteng health spokesperson Jack Bloom said Madonsela would ensure that a just settlement was achieved for relatives.

"[She] has the necessary moral authority and support to ensure that there is a fair settlement for the relatives that includes financial compensation, while bearing in mind that no amount of money can recompense for the loss of a loved one," Bloom said.

According to Bloom, the DA preferred the appointment of a representative out of a desire to avoid a long, drawn out legal process, as had occurred with the Marikana tragedy.

Madonsela is currently on sabbatical at Harvard University.

Bloom said he hoped she could represent the families, regardless of her involvement at the university.