“The ANC is resolute in its stance on the NHI Act, and ongoing discussions with Business Unity SA (BUSA) reflect the complex dynamics at play,” reported Spotlight (18 Feb 2025).
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and the National Health Department have reiterated that there are no compromise deals regarding the NHI Act.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has pointed out that an agreement from the recent GNU-convened Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) suggests the Health Department will not dismantle medical schemes during the current government’s term.
However, this does not amount to a promise to amend the contentious sections of the NHI Act. According to Professor Olive Shisana, President Ramaphosa’s Social Policy Special Advisor, amending the NHI Act would require thorough public consultation and parliamentary scrutiny, suggesting that substantive changes may take years to materialise.”