26/02/2026
Ramaphosa pauses NHI, awaits Constitutional Court ruling:
President Cyril Ramaphosa has agreed to delay the implementation of the contentious National Health Insurance Act (NHI) following litigation brought against him and the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi.
•In a statement on Tuesday, the Presidency said the decision to delay was taken after consultations between Ramaphosa and Motsoaledi, in light of legal challenges currently before the Constitutional Court (ConCourt).
•Several organisations who oppose the NHI have launched the legal challenges, with the ConCourt expected to hear the matters in May.
•Ramaphosa signed the NHI into law nearly two years ago, saying it aims to provide 'universal, free, and equitable access to healthcare for all citizens.'
"The litigation that has been initiated by various parties against the President and the Minister of Health has necessitated that President Cyril Ramaphosa, following consultations with Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, agree to delay the proclamation of any sections of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act until the Constitutional Court has handed down its judgments in challenges due to be heard on 5 - 7 May 2026," the Presidency's statement read.
(Photo credit: GCIS)