By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry heard that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) released a report containing damning allegations against Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi shortly before his appointment as deputy chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD).
This was revealed by the former Ekurhuleni Municipality employee relations head, Xolani Nciza, who began his testimony on Tuesday at the Bridget Mabandla Justice College in Tshwane.
The IPID report recommended that an internal disciplinary process be instituted and be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Nciza said there is sufficient evidence for Mkhwanazi to face disciplinary action for gross misconduct within the municipality.
He explained that in December 2023, IPID submitted its findings to Ekurhuleni’s executive mayor, Sivuyile Ngodqana. Following the report, Mkhwanazi circulated a letter among municipal officials rejecting the report’s conclusions.
Nciza further alleged that former city manager Imogen Mashazi amended the municipality’s disciplinary rules after Mkhwanazi’s misconduct case was forcefully withdrawn.
He said the amendments gave sole authority to Behari to initiate investigations, sidelining other municipal units and making the process impractical and unfair.
He also told the commission that in 2023, Behari found no substantial case against Mkhwanazi despite allegations that he had fraudulently awarded a tender to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s company, Cat VIP Security Services, and was linked to a shop owner’s murder.
Nciza criticised Behari for failing to provide a report explaining the decision, which is standard procedure within the municipality.
Nciza said the stated reason for his own suspension in 2023 — failure to present his qualifications — was a disguise to mask the real reason, his opposition to Mkhwanazi’s influence. He explained that he had served the municipality for 28 years, provided all necessary documentation, and had risen through the ranks on experience and competency.
The commission continues to hear evidence into alleged misconduct, corruption and abuse of authority within the Ekurhuleni municipality’s senior administration.