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The Democratic Alliance (DA) can reveal that, in less than two months after being appointed as Heads of Department (HODs) for Legal and Human Resources respectively in the city of Ekurhuleni, Madlanga Commission accused Khemie Beharie and Linda Gxasheka received a salary increase of 28% (R585,286.00) each.

Just 14 months later, they each received an additional cost of living increase of 3% (R79,221.00), taking their starting salaries of R2 million per year to a staggering R2.7 million.

In response to DA questions, the MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, Ald. Sivuyile Ngodwana, who was the Executive Mayor at the time of the adjustments, indicated that these increases were approved as Mayoral Items.

In layperson’s terms, this means the increases were approved by the Executive Mayor and the Mayoral Committee, comprised of the ANC and EFF, without coming before Council for scrutiny.

Both Beharie and Gxasheka remain on precautionary suspension following the damning testimonies made at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which accused them of failing to act and, in some instances, shielding corruption accused Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, from investigation.

Given that Ald. Sivuyile was known to have been a pawn in the ANC and EFF’s political manoeuvring to regain control of the city’s finances, it is little wonder that he was used by his political principals to push through these increases.

As a party that abides by the rule of law, the DA firmly believes that while both Beharie and Gxasheka should be presumed innocent until proven otherwise, investigations into them must be expedited to bring closure and justice to this troubling matter.

The DA will continue to work tirelessly for the residents of Ekurhuleni, who deserve ethical and clean governance.

We will not shy away from exposing those who have betrayed residents to enrich themselves.

Issued by Cllr. Brandon Pretorius - DA City of Ekurhuleni Caucus Leader