MEC Gomba apologises for comment

Eastern Cape Health MEC Sindiswa Gomba has issued an apology following her utterances during a virtual briefing on Tuesday evening.

Gomba was part of a briefing organised by Health Minister Zweli Mkhize – which was aired on live television – when she commented on her presentation saying “andidikwe”, meaning that she was fed up in isiXhosa.

In the apology issued on Wednesday the MEC said that she had had a long day, having visited hospitals in the Mthatha area to ensure that medical staff have personal protective equipment.

“Because of exhaustion the MEC forgot to mute her microphone when she said she was irritated or uncomfortable with the warm attire since the early hours of the morning,” the statement said.

It also revealed that Gomba had explained her comment to Mkhize and had also sent an apology.

“I understand the impression that was created when I said ‘andidikwe’ ndiyatsha during the briefing.

READ: Concerned Mkhize unleashes big guns to deal with Covid-19 in Eastern Cape

At the time of saying that I was moving away from the laptop and taking off my doek.

“I profusely apologise for the wrong impression that this created as I am committed to the fight against this pandemic,” she said.

Her comments have caused a social media storm with many questioning her level of professionalism and commitment towards her position.

Queenin Masaubi Political journalist | City Press

+27 11 713 9001 Queenin.Masuabi@citypress.co.za Media Park, 69 Kingsway Road, Auckland Park

Rise above the clutter | Choose your news | City Press in your inbox

City Press is an agenda-setting South African news brand that publishes across platforms. Its flagship print edition is distributed on a Sunday.