Mohale FM GRIEVING family from Khokhotsaneng in Roma is demanding answers and seeking justice following the death of their 24-year-old daughter, whom they believe was discharged too soon from hospital despite her visibly deteriorating condition.
At the centre of their anguish is not only the loss of a young mother but the painful reality that they now lack the means to bury her. The late Pulane Masokela, who passed away on 27 May, leaves behind a baby boy who is now less than a month old.
Her family alleges that after undergoing a caesarean section at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH), Pulane was discharged while still seriously ill and unable to care for herself. Now, instead of celebrating the arrival of a new child into the family, her mother is left mourning her daughter and raising an infant with little means to survive.
Speaking to the Sunday Express, Pulane’s mother, ‘Mateboho Masokela, said the family cannot understand how her daughter was allowed to leave hospital in the condition she was in. According to her, Pulane had experienced severe health complications during pregnancy. She alleges those complications began after Pulane was forced by her husband to consume Bolalazonke (kill all), an insecticidal dusting powder commonly used for pest control. The family alleges the substance was given to her in an attempt to terminate the pregnancy.
While Pulane’s life has ended, their struggle has only just begun. As the family battles grief, another painful reality remains unresolved —Pulane’s body is still at the mortuary because they cannot afford to bury her. The family says it has approached police and wants investigations into both the circumstances surrounding Pulane’s death and allegations against her husband.
When contacted for comment, police spokesperson, Superintendent Thabo Mohai, said he was not aware of the matter. QMMH Managing Director, Dr Makhoase Ranyali, when approached for comment, questioned the reporter’s identity and requested verification before responding to the allegations.
