Ramaphosa hits brakes on NHI Act pending ConCourt hearing

JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa has agreed to delay the proclamation of any sections of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act pending a ruling by the Constitutional Court.

This follows after litigations which were brough forward by various parties against Ramaphosa and Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi.

Among those was AfriForum who seeks to challenge the constitutionality of the NHI Act.

The lobby group argues the Act takes away clinical independence of health practitioners.

Additionally, the group said the act fails to meet the requirements of Section 27 of the Constitution which mandates the government to achieve progressive access to health care for South Africans. 

READ | AfriForum serves Ramaphosa and Motsoaledi summons in NHI battle

Despite this legal battle the presidency is not deterred. 

The Presidency says the preparatory work has been ongoing including the improvement of health services before any sections of the NHI Act are ready for commencement.

The Presidency further emphasised that the decision to delay proclamation will not affect the timetable for the implementation of the NHI. 

“The Department of Health will continue in its constitutional responsibility to strengthen the health system and improve the quality of care.” 

Constitutional Court is expected to hand its judgement on 5 to 7 May 2026.