LIVE | Julius Mkhwanazi, Imogen Mashazi, co-accused back in court

In a recent response to a query, the Gauteng government revealed that deputy police chief Julius Mkhwanazi's suspension has cost the city R1.27 million in salary, benefits and related expenses. Mkhwanazi was suspended on November 11, 2025, pending the completion of disciplinary proceedings. His hearing concerning the Blue Lights Installation issue has been ongoing since February, with a further hearing set for August 11 and 12.

Additionally, a disciplinary hearing related to the precious stones case is scheduled to begin in September once all objections and preliminary objections have been addressed. The City of Ekurhuleni has stated that they are unable to provide a timeline for the conclusion of these proceedings, as four more witnesses are still required to testify.

Currently, no individual has been appointed to fill Mkhwanazi's vacant position, meaning the city has not incurred any additional costs for an acting official. Mkhwanazi has a history of arrests, having been charged with five offenses and remains in custody without bail. The opposition Democratic Alliance has strongly criticized the city's decision to continue paying Mkhwanazi's salary, describing the expenditure as unacceptable and demanding his resignation.

The party's representative, Khathutshelo Rasilingwane, highlighted the perceived corruption and criminality associated with Mkhwanazi and questioned the role of Ekurhuleni City Manager Lerutla in the matter, arguing that Mkhwanazi should have been dismissed. The City's response indicated that disciplinary proceedings are governed by the Disciplinary Procedure Collective Agreement.