By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Health Professions Council of South African (HPCSA) says it will investigate allegations against Thabo Bester’s partner Dr Nandipha Magudumana.
This follows media reports alleging misconduct by the general practitioner.
Magudumana made news headlines in recent weeks following allegations that she could be the mastermind behind Bester’s dramatic escape from the Mangaung prison last year.
The couple has since been arrested in Tanzania last week after skipping the country.
“HPCSA has noted numerous media reports regarding various allegations that have been levelled against Dr Nandipha Magudumana, as a regulator for the healthcare professions, the HPCSA will institute its own investigation into the matter.
“The HPCSA will work collectively with relevant stakeholders within Government, which includes the South African Police Service, the Department of Health – at both Provincial and National level, the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Correctional Services to ensure that the investigation process is comprehensive,” said spokesperson Christopher Tsatsawane.
Meanwhile celebrity doctor Mmereka Ntshani, better known as Dr Pashy, is seeking legal advice on allegations that Magudumana assumed her identity while on the run with Bester.
“We have learnt with great concern through various media outlets of the potential stolen identity of our founder, Dr Mmereka Patience Martha Ntshani, by Dr Nandipha Magudumana,” the Dr Pashy Foundation said.
According to the foundation, which identifies with the Power Women Group and the International Power Women Foundation, Magudumana was one of the guest speakers at a medical seminar Ntshani hosted in 2020.
It said in its statement: This event was in line with the organisation’s sole purpose of inspiring, empowering and uplifting women and children.
After the event, according to the statement, the foundation entered into a public relations agreement with Vibes Africa Incorporated International – a company “wholly owned by Magudumana”.
However, the foundation denied that Ntshani had received funding from Magudumana or the organisation affiliated with her.