During a meeting of the parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health, the FF Plus pointed out to the Minister of Health, Joe Phaahla, that although the fact that Covid-19 vaccinations are now offered to almost all age groups is welcomed, even more must be done to eradicate the virus. And that includes using mobile clinics to offer vaccinations in rural areas.
Getting vaccinated remains every person's own, free choice and making vaccinations compulsory will amount to a violation of our country's Constitution. It does seem that the younger generations are heeding the call to get vaccinated seeing as 832 000 people between the ages of 18 and 34 have been vaccinated since last Friday.
Everyone cannot simply take the vaccine as some people have underlying illnesses and so, many people first need to be medically examined beforehand to determine whether they are able and healthy enough to be vaccinated.
Likewise, healthcare services may not be denied based on the grounds of someone not being vaccinated. That would also amount to a violation of our country's Constitution. Some academics have, however, hinted that such an arrangement is indeed being considered. In Limpopo, the MEC for Health, Dr Phopi Ramathuba, even went as far as saying that alcohol may not be sold to people who have not been vaccinated.
The FF Plus asked Minister Phaahla to ensure that MECs do not make such rash statements as they could have serious implications, particularly if they advocate unconstitutional practices. This is something that government would do well to avoid.
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