Dr Jack Bloom, MPL, newly appointed Deputy Minister for Water and Sanitation.
I have mixed feelings about leaving the Gauteng Provincial Legislature after more than 32 years since my first election in 1994. It has been the arena for some epic battles but also treasured memories.
In the early days, I was chief whip and sat on multiple committees, as there were only five. Democratic Party members. I was not pleased when the health portfolio was assigned to me, as I had no health background, and I am squeamish about medical matters.
But I jumped in and pioneered high-profile inspection visits to hospitals. My frequent oversight caused such discomfort that, in 2009, my photograph was posted at the entrance to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, barring me from entry.
Official questions, both written and oral, were my other weapon in uncovering scandals and poor hospital treatment. I have asked more than 3500 questions, and I have interacted with 6 speakers, 7 premiers, and 11 Health MECs. I forced debates on President Thabo Mbeki Aids-denialism.
