Ekurhuleni City Manager Kagiso Lerutla Set To Return To Work Despite Corruption Charges

Ekurhuleni City Manager Kagiso Lerutla is expected to resume his duties on Monday after his period of special leave comes to an end. The City of Ekurhuleni has confirmed that Lerutla was never suspended from his position.

City spokesperson Phakamile Mbengashe said Lerutla had voluntarily taken leave while legal proceedings against him continue. His return comes despite ongoing fraud and corruption charges linked to a court case involving senior city officials.

Kagiso Lerutla To Return To Work After Special Leave

Lerutla appeared in the Boksburg Magistrates Court on Wednesday alongside suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi. The pair face charges including fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice.

The matter was postponed to June, with both officials remaining out on bail of R30,000 each. Despite concerns raised over the seriousness of the allegations, the city has defended Lerutla’s return to office.

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Mbengashe confirmed that council had already resolved that Lerutla should return to work once his leave period expired. She also clarified that the municipality’s HR policies allow for special leave in certain circumstances.

Ekurhuleni Defends Special Leave Provision For Kagiso Lerutla

According to Mbengashe, the city’s HR framework includes provisions for special leave covering several personal matters. She explained that legal matters are among the categories recognised under the policy.

“Within the city’s HR policy documents, there is a category called special leave. It includes issues relating to school. It includes personal issues and legal matters. So, he has taken special leave.”

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Questions had been raised about whether special leave was applicable in Lerutla’s case. However, the municipality insists the process followed falls within existing policy guidelines.

Ekurhuleni Council Divided Over Kagiso Lerutla Matter

Last week, divisions reportedly emerged within council regarding Lerutla’s future. Some councillors argued that the city manager should be suspended while the criminal case continues.

A report dealing with the municipality’s position was presented before council by the mayor. Councillors then resolved to seek legal advice before taking any further decisions on the matter.

The case involving Lerutla and Mkhwanazi is expected back in court in June as investigations continue.