Testimony at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System in Pretoria revealed a troubling account from City of Ekurhuleni officials, highlighting fear and alleged intimidation within municipal structures.
On Tuesday, Xolani Nciza, former divisional head and employee relations director at the City of Ekurhuleni, told the commission that the city’s head of department (HOD) for Human Resources, Linda Gxasheka, had expressed concern for her safety in February 2023. Nciza testified that Gxasheka allegedly described her apprehension over a colleague, saying: “Matlala is a dangerous man. I do not want this. I have a small child.”
The comments, according to Nciza, were made during discussions about workplace dynamics and the pressures faced by senior officials, underscoring an environment of fear and unease among the municipality’s management ranks. He indicated that the remark was not made in passing but reflected genuine concern for personal safety and family welfare.
The commission, which is investigating allegations of corruption and political interference across South Africa’s criminal justice system, is examining whether internal municipal governance failures have contributed to a culture of intimidation and misconduct. Nciza’s testimony sheds light on how workplace conflicts and alleged abuses of power may intersect with broader institutional vulnerabilities.
Nciza’s evidence comes amid a series of revelations about alleged improprieties within Ekurhuleni’s senior management, particularly within divisions responsible for employee relations, human resources, and service delivery oversight. Previous witnesses at the inquiry have highlighted cases of undue influence, abuse of authority, and irregular appointments, painting a picture of systemic dysfunction.
Legal experts following the proceedings say the testimony could carry serious implications if corroborated, potentially prompting internal investigations and accountability measures within municipal structures. Observers note that the commission’s focus on individual threats and intimidation reflects wider concerns about safety, governance, and ethical conduct in public administration.
The commission has not yet ruled on whether further investigation into the alleged threat posed by Matlala will be pursued, but Nciza’s account adds to a growing dossier of evidence suggesting that senior officials at Ekurhuleni faced pressure and fear in the execution of their duties.
As proceedings continue, the commission aims to establish whether such incidents are isolated or indicative of broader governance challenges that may have impacted service delivery and accountability within one of South Africa’s largest municipalities.