The future of the EMPD’s acting police chief, Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi, hangs in the balance.

The council deliberated on an internal report into allegations of misconduct against him during a sitting on October 30.

Mkhwanazi has been on special leave since the allegations surfaced about his connection to controversial businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.

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Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza confirmed receipt of the report but stressed that the matter remained confidential until due processes were complete.

“The report is being processed in the council. We have received it. As I have indicated, this is an in-committee meeting.

“We might not necessarily be able to pronounce, but the administration is now seized with the matter. I’m certain that in the next day or two, we should be able to issue a statement,” said Xhakaza.

However, since the meeting, the city has not indicated the next steps or disclosed the report’s contents.

Council members were expected to decide whether to place Mkhwanazi on precautionary suspension following claims that he allegedly used his official powers to benefit Matlala, who faces charges of attempted murder.

According to reports, Mkhwanazi allegedly fitted Matlala’s private vehicles with EMPD blue lights, a serious breach of protocol that triggered an internal investigation. The investigation’s findings were submitted to the council and are under review before further action is taken.

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The Independent Residents’ Association of South Africa submitted a motion calling for Mkhwanazi’s placement on precautionary leave during a council sitting on October 1.

Xhakaza said the city remained committed to following proper disciplinary procedures as outlined by the South African Local Government Bargaining Council.

“The disciplinary proceeding will have to take effect without fear or favour. We remain committed to transparency, restoring trust within our communities and reinforcing the values of good governance that underpin our renewal agenda,” he said.

Mkhwanazi remains on special leave pending the outcome of council deliberations. Although the report has been tabled, the CoE has yet to announce the way forward, leaving uncertainty over whether he will face suspension or disciplinary action.