Public interest law centre Section27 on Friday condemned the growing crisis in the North West province, caused by the disruption of all levels of healthcare services.

The human rights organization was concerned that the violence and disruption of healthcare services was resulting in loss of life as patients are denied entry to health facilities and doctors and other health care professionals are prevented from providing care.

“We are receiving desperate phone calls from anxious and alarmed hospital doctors reporting on the consequences of the disruption of services caused by the protests and strikes led by NEHAWU and other trade union organisations,” stated Section27.

The organisation said some of the reports it received included protestors invading theatres, threats to the lives of doctors, doctors being forcefully removed from hospital wards and entrances to hospitals being blocked off, resulting in no supplies or drugs being delivered to hospitals.

Section27 added that it fully supported responsibly conducted protest action against North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo and “his corrupt Zupta clique”.

The organization stated that it was in solidarity with most of the demands of healthcare workers who are NEHAWU members for decent and safe working conditions and living wages.

However, it condemned violent protests and stated that it was grossly irresponsible and morally reprehensible.

Section27 stated that it supported the right to protest and had been involved in extensive litigation to affirm this right. However, the organisation could not support protests which denied vulnerable and poor people access to healthcare and life-saving services.

“This causes great pain, suffering and loss of life for the most vulnerable. It also alienates patients from health workers when what we need is a united front for patient and workers’ rights,” said Section27 in a statement.