Reinstating Kelebogile Thepa as EMPD spokesperson was to restore public confidence in unit - City of Ekurhuleni

The City of Ekurhuleni said that a decision to reinstate Kelebogile Thepa as spokesperson for its metro police department was made to restore public confidence in the unit.

Thepa was demoted over a year ago for mishandling media queries about corruption allegations against EMPD deputy chief, Julius Mkhwanazi.

This included his alleged links to suspected criminal, Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

Thepa appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry last week and gave harrowing testimony about the extent of Mkhwanazi’s questionable conduct.

She also alleged she was assaulted at gunpoint and threatened to remain silent about the corrupt activity she uncovered.

More than a year ago, EWN saw a confidential report by police watchdog IPID, which found that Mkhwanazi had unlawfully entered the city into an agreement with a company linked to Matlala.

In the report, EMPD spokesperson Kelebogile Thepa was listed as one of the key witnesses whose testimony IPID relied on to establish the facts surrounding Mkhwanazi’ alleged misconduct.

But shortly before IPID released its final report, which recommended the city take disciplinary action against Mkhwanazi, Thepa was demoted.

Ekurhuleni spokesperson Phakamile Mbengashe said the city had now decided to reinstate her as the EMPD’s spokesperson.

City manager, Kagiso Lerutla, said the move was part of strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence in the EMPD.

"Professional, consistent and accountable communication is essential for any law enforcement agency operating in a constitutional democracy. The reinstatement of the EMPD Media and Public Relations Unit is a corrective governance measure that ensures our communications functions operate within an approved structure, with clear reporting lines and proper oversight."

The fraudulent agreement Mkhwanazi is accused of signing with Matlala allegedly resulted in blue lights and vehicles being improperly issued to Matlala’s private security company.