City of Ekurhuleni 'rooted in corruption, irregularities', Nciza tells Madlanga Commission

A municipality "rooted in corruption, irregularities, and no regard for the law" — that is the picture former Ekurhuleni head of employee relations, Xolani Nciza, has painted in relation to the City of Ekurhuleni.

READ: Madlanga Commission hears EMPD's Mkhwanazi was willing to 'take a bullet' for Mashazi

Nciza concluded his two-day testimony before the Madlanga Commission on Thursday afternoon, where his evidence centred around serious allegations of political interference and nepotism within the city.

The crux of Nciza’s testimony involved elements of criminality, fraudulent and unlawful agreements, and instances of gross misconduct. His allegations focused particularly on the suspended acting EMPD head, Julius Mkhwanazi, and the ex-city manager, Imogen Mashazi.

Nciza accused Mashazi of shielding Mkhwanazi against disciplinary action after the EMPD head was found to have fraudulently struck a dealbetween the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) and tender tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

During his testimony, Nciza highlighted the municipality’s apparent reluctance to investigate serious allegations.

"There is a point where there were such gross allegations made about corruption, tender irregularities, and all sorts of things. At no point whatsoever has the municipality commissioned a forensic investigation."

Nciza was ultimately dismissed from his position in 2023, following his attempt to pursue disciplinary action against Mkhwanazi.

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.