Ekurhuleni city manager Imogen Mashazi placed on special leave pending her retirement
There has been growing tension between Mashazi and the city, as she refuses to step down before completing her term.
Imogen Mashazi. Picture: X/City_Ekurhuleni
JOHANNESBURG - Ekurhuleni city manager Imogen Mashazi has been placed on special leave, pending the 65-year-old's retirement.
There has been growing tension between Mashazi and the city, as she refuses to step down before completing her term.
Her refusal is in direct conflict with the Municipal Systems Act, which requires senior managers to retire a month after turning 65.
Ekurhuleni’s first woman city manager is not buckling under pressure to vacate her post, insisting she will serve out her full term, which ends in May 2026.
Mashazi is supposed to retire in August but intends to remain in office until her contract expires.
The city has subsequently placed Mashazi on special leave until her pending retirement in August.
But she refuses to comply, arguing that she is still capable of performing her duties and cannot be forced out.
EWN has seen a letter from Ekurhuleni Mayor Doctor Xhakaza ordering Mashazi to vacate her office, citing her continued presence as unlawful.
Imogen Mashazi, Ekurhuleni’s City Manager, has refused to take special leave despite a council resolution placing her on it.
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) June 5, 2025
The Municipal Systems Act bars individuals over the age of 65 holding senior positions.
However, Mashazi (65) insists on completing her term. @JusstAlpha pic.twitter.com/lQAQEwOhJr
Doctor Xhakaza, the mayor of Ekurhuleni, has called a media briefing to respond to Mashazi’s refusal to take special leave.
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) June 5, 2025
EWN has seen a letter from Xhakaza to Mashazi, instructing her to pack her bags.
However, Mashazi insists she will remain in her role. @JusstAlpha pic.twitter.com/3Ku76MklEp