By Staff Reporter
SEKGOSESE—The Vutlhari Old Age and Disability Centre has come under scrutiny after the facility’s founder, Mr. Pheko Baloyi, allegedly went missing and denied access to the MEC for Social Development, Ms. Florence Radzilani, during a surprise visit today.
The MEC’s inspection was part of an investigation into claims of ill treatment and human rights violations against the elderly residents at the center.
Mr. Baloyi reportedly instructed Mme Radzilane to forcibly enter the premises via a phone call but remained absent. Notably, Mr. Baloyi had previously stated that Premier Stan Chupu Mathabatha inaugurated the center on February 28, 1998—a claim now being questioned, as the premier at the time was Mr. Ngoako Ramahlodi.
The visit followed a series of grave allegations. Residents, many suffering from chronic illnesses, are said to have been denied essential medication and provided with insufficient nutritional food. The facility is also accused of lacking basic amenities, such as adequate blankets.
Reacting to these claims, MEC Radzilani expressed deep concern: “Our major concern is the dire conditions our elderly are subjected to. As government, we have a responsibility to protect their human rights.
We will do everything in our power to intervene and rescue these elderly people from the terrible conditions they find themselves in.”
Though denied access today, MEC Radzilani stated that proper arrangements will be made to ensure the government can fully investigate the situation.
“We will gain access and get to the bottom of this,” she affirmed, adding that legal action and the involvement of law enforcement may soon follow.
The Department of Social Development had earlier sent a team of social workers to conduct assessments, and further investigations are expected once access to the facility is secured.
