Pretoria, South Africa – A former midwife, Yolande Maritz, is set to face criminal charges next month over allegations of deadly mishandling during her practice, leading to infant deaths and severe disabilities, authorities said. Maritz, who lost her midwifery license, seemingly exhibited a pattern of negligence, according to official reports.
Barry Bateman, from AfriForum’s private prosecution office, confirmed that Maritz is instructed to appear before the court on July 24 on charges of assault. This action comes after persistent demands for an official investigation over incidents that have left families grappling with irreplaceable losses and lifelong burdens.
The legal maneuvering is a result of unyielding efforts by individuals such as Carien Möller and Alysia von Kloëg, both of whom were affected by Maritz’s practices. Notably, von Kloëg’s newborn perished nine days post-birth, and Möller’s daughter was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, conditions the parents attribute to inadequate care provided by Maritz. Their complaints, lodged in 2020 and 2022 respectively, marked the start of a prolonged legal journey.
The South African Nursing Council had previously stricken Maritz from its register in 2021 citing negligent and unprofessional behavior, a decision affirmed on appeal. Despite this, it took a considerable amount of time and intervention from AfriForum to initiate formal charges. Frustrations grew due to what was perceived as sluggish communication and action by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), particularly when the urgency was underscored by ongoing risks to public safety.
Forensic criminologist, Dr. Pixie du Toit, highlighted the importance of meticulous selection when choosing healthcare providers, especially in contexts as vulnerable as childbirth. Dr. Angelique Coetzee, meanwhile, noted the pivotal role midwives play during the maternity process. They are tasked with managing complex deliveries that could involve significant complications, emphasizing the dire need for adequate training and risk management.
Despite these hurdles, managed and well-supported midwife deliveries traditionally present favorable outcomes, which underscores the systemic gaps that the incident with Maritz potentially unveils. Dr. Coetzee further articulated concerns regarding midwives navigating resource limitations, which can severely compromise their ability to administer necessary medical care.
This case, set to proceed in court next month, not only reiterates the critical role of accreditation and oversight in the medical profession but also punctuates the vital need for accountability when care falls below standard, especially when the stakes involve the well-being and lives of mothers and infants. As the legal proceedings commence, the affected families hold onto hope for justice, while the broader medical community watches closely, potentially facing the reverberations of the outcome.