The DA has called on Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza to immediately suspend city manager Kagiso Lerutla following his recent arrest.

Lerutla recently appeared before the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on charges including fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice, allegedly linked to a 2019 traffic violation.

In a strongly worded statement, the DA said Lerutla’s arrest raises serious concerns about governance in the metro and argued that he should be suspended pending the outcome of investigations.

The party further stated that, if found guilty, he must be dismissed without delay.

The DA also criticised the governing coalition between the ANC and the EFF, blaming them for appointing Lerutla despite prior warnings about his performance as Group CFO.

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The party described the situation as “deeply embarrassing” and indicative of broader governance failures within the city.

“The city cannot continue to be led by someone who is potentially implicated in criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies should widen their investigations to include other officials suspected of wrongdoing,” said Khathutshelo Rasilingwane, DA Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate.

In response, Xhakaza acknowledged the seriousness of the matter but confirmed that Lerutla has taken leave to deal with the legal proceedings.

“The matter is before the courts, and to protect the integrity of the judicial system, the city will refrain from speculation,” said Xhakaza.

To ensure continuity in administration, the mayor announced the appointment of Dr Tsholofelo Koopedi as acting city manager.

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He said this step was necessary to maintain stability and ensure uninterrupted service delivery across the metro.

Xhakaza emphasised that the city remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of essential services, despite the unfolding legal situation.

Meanwhile, the ANC in Ekurhuleni has backed the mayor’s handling of the matter, describing his actions as “firm and decisive leadership.” The party said it would not comment on the merits of the case, citing respect for the judicial process.

“We are confident that these developments will not disrupt governance and service delivery,” the ANC said in a statement.

The developments come amid heightened political tensions in Ekurhuleni. As the legal process unfolds, the future of the city’s top administrator remains uncertain, with growing pressure on the metro’s leadership to balance accountability with administrative stability.