Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
06 September 2024 | 09:38 CAT

Health minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s remarks that opposition to the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme is simply warmed-up “swart gevaar” are disturbing and misguided, says the Institute of Race Relations (IRR).

The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) has expressed concern over remarks by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi that opposition to the National Health Insurance scheme is simply warmed-up ‘swart gevaar’. The IRR’s critique of Dr. Motsoaledi’s remarks is an important perspective that the public should be aware of. Dr Motsoaledi reportedly made these remarks at the International Pharmaceutical Federation Conference in Cape Town.

“Dr Motsoaledi’s playing of the race card to dismiss concerns around NHI is unfortunate. It is clear that there are serious concerns about implementing NHI, notably about the funding of the scheme. As it stands, funding NHI will require enormous tax increases, which few South Africans will be able to afford,” the IRR said in a statement.

In addition, it is disingenuous of Dr Motsoaledi to imply that it is only white South Africans who are concerned about the NHI scheme. Voices have raised opposition to it from across society.

The IRR has raised the alarm about how the scheme could imperil tax revenue – the NHI could be the proverbial last straw that impels overburdened taxpayers to consider emigrating. This stark warning should raise concerns about the financial implications of the NHI scheme.

The IRR, rather than dismissing opposition to the NHI as racially motivated or lacking empathy, is calling for a more constructive approach. They state, “The minister should engage in good faith with those who are seeking to provide solutions to improve South African health care.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Uo with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and IRR researcher Chris Patterson here.