Pretoria, South Africa – Next month, former midwife Yolande Maritz will face the judiciary, accused of harmful practices that allegedly led to several infant deaths and lasting disabilities. Maritz, who has been stripped of her credentials, will appear in court on July 24 facing charges of assault linked to her treatment of pregnant women under her care.
The allegations against Maritz surfaced after it was claimed she administered medications during childbirth, contributing to serious complications. The case, which caught public attention due to its grave implications, is being propelled by AfriForum’s private prosecution unit.
Carien Möller and Alysia von Kloëg, victims of Maritz’s alleged malpractice, sought the aid of AfriForum after filing criminal complaints in 2020 and 2022, respectively. Von Kloëg’s baby tragically died nine days post-birth, and Möller’s daughter was diagnosed with cerebral palsy—conditions they attribute directly to Maritz’s practice.
The prosecution unit has advocated tirelessly for over a year and a half, urging the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to formalize charges and bring Maritz to accountability. Barry Bateman, the unit’s communication manager, voiced frustration over the delay in legal proceedings, criticizing the NPA for slow action which might have allowed Maritz to continue her practice.
In 2021, the South African Nursing Council found Maritz guilty of negligence and unprofessional behavior, leading to her de-licensure. Despite her appeal, the decision was upheld, rendering her unqualified to practice as a midwife.
The legal pursuit gained renewed momentum in January 2023, as the plaintiffs voiced their concerns about the lack of progress. This pressurization eventually succeeded in moving the case to a courtroom, though concerns linger about the delay and its potential implications.
Dr. Angelique Coetzee, a general practitioner who commented on the broader role of midwives in maternity care, emphasized the critical importance of these health workers in ensuring safe deliveries. However, she noted that complex deliveries require specialized skills and awareness of potential complications, stressing the importance of proper training and risk management.
According to Dr. Coetzee, education for both midwives and patients is paramount, particularly in resource-limited settings. This could mitigate risks and improve health outcomes. Meanwhile, forensic criminologist Dr. Pixie du Toit suggested that prospective parents rigorously vet their chosen midwives’ qualifications and reputations to prevent such tragedies.
As the case against Maritz advances, it raises broader questions about regulatory oversight and the safeguards necessary to protect mothers and their newborns during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives. This trial not only seeks justice for those directly affected but also underscores the need for stringent professional standards and swift actions from justice systems in medical malpractice cases.