Ekurhuleni Legal Boss Kemi Behari Suspended As Mkhwanazi Scandal Deepens

Advocate Kemi Behari, the City of Ekurhuleni’s Head of Legal and Risk Services, has been placed on precautionary suspension as the fallout from the allegations against EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi continues to escalate.

The municipality confirmed the suspension on Wednesday, noting that it follows a council resolution authorising City Manager Kagiso Lerutla to act in terms of the Disciplinary Regulations for Senior Managers. The City stressed that the move is procedural and does not amount to a finding of guilt.

Behari’s suspension also comes at a time when questions have surfaced about his alleged failure to initiate disciplinary processes against Mkhwanazi, despite serious evidence presented before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Escalating Pressure as Scandal Surrounds EMPD Deputy Chief

Mkhwanazi was suspended on 11 November after explosive testimony linked him to alleged corruption, fraud, fabrication of municipal contracts, and allowing private security firms to unlawfully use blue-light equipment.

Witnesses also accused him of operating a rogue EMPD unit allegedly involved in violent crimes, including murder, extortion, and hijackings.

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Further testimony suggested that whistle-blower reports were ignored or suppressed, raising concerns about previous oversight lapses and the role of senior departments in handling such alerts.

City Sticks to Procedure as Kemi Behari Served With Suspension

The City did not reveal the specific reasons for Behari’s suspension but confirmed that he had been given an opportunity to make written submissions before Lerutla made his decision. The process, it said, was carried out strictly in line with Regulation 6.

“The City remains committed to fair, transparent, and procedurally compliant governance practices,” said Head of Communications Phakamile Mbengashe, adding that the matter is now under internal investigation.

Behari will remain on full pay while the probe continues.

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