Kelebogile Thepa reinstated as EMPD spokesperson following Madlanga Commission appearance
Lt-Col. Kelebogile Thepa has been reinstated as the EMPD spokesperson.
Image: Supplied.
City of Ekurhuleni has reinstated Lt-Col. Kelebogile Thepa, as the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) spokesperson, following her testimony at the Madlanga Commission.
In a statement on Monday, the city said the decision followed an internal review of the EMPD’s communications arrangements and the need to align operational practice with the City’s approved organisational structure, governance prescripts, and communication policies.
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,” said Lerutla.
“This step supports our broader Renewal Programme by reinforcing clean governance, institutional integrity and openness to the public we serve.”
Last week, Thepa appeared before the commission, explaining how she was threatened, harassed and forcefully removed from her position.
Thepa told the commission that the scary attack on her was work-related to the blue lights saga. Thepa was attacked in 2023 in Tembisa.
She said her suspension was of how she handled the blue light issues. According to Thepa, the former city manager, Imogen Mashazi, was not impressed with her handling.
She was then suspended.
The suspended EMPD acting chief, Brig. Julius Mkhwanazi has been accused of assisting in fitting Vusimuzi "CAT" Matlala's vehicle with municipal blue lights.
The city said it was aware of the issues raised at the commission.
It further said that the reinstatement of the media unit and the return of Thepa to her position is an administrative and governance intervention and does not pre-empt the findings of the commission or any ongoing labour processes.
“We will continue to cooperate fully with the Madlanga Commission and respect its independence,” Lerutla added.
“At the same time, we have a responsibility to ensure that our internal structures are sound, lawful and fit for purpose so that residents receive timely, accurate and reliable information.”
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