Xhakaza confirms Mapiyeye’s six-month EMPD reinstatement

Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has announced that EMPD Chief Isaac Mapiyeye has been reinstated for a period of six months. Former Ekurhuleni City Manager Imogen Mashazi claimed that Mapiyeye had engaged in sexual relations with his female subordinates. However, a disciplinary hearing held in July revealed that the city was unable to substantiate the allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of authority.

Speaking to the media, Xhakaza explained that Mapiyeye's reinstatement would provide stability to the police department until a suitable replacement is found, as the chief is nearing retirement age. "When misconduct is tolerated and allegations remain unresolved, it's within this context that following the conclusion of Chief Isaac Mapiyeye’s disciplinary proceeding, council resolved to reinstate him for a further six months to stabilise the department.

Chief Mapiyeye brings decades of police experience," stated Xhakaza. The mayor also mentioned that proper internal processes were followed in the dismissal of former Deputy Metro Police Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, who has been arrested and released multiple times since April of this year. Mkhwanazi was initially implicated during the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria.

Xhakaza emphasized that investigations involving city officials must be handled within the city's governance structures. "Allegations relating to Mr Julius Mkhwanazi, who was the Deputy Chief of Police until today's decision, were referred to the Internal Audit through Council in August 2025. Such referrals must be handled within the approved mandate, with the appropriate expertise and without interference," said the mayor.