The City of Ekurhuleni has moved to set the record straight regarding the controversial appointment of Phakamile Mbengashe, head of the Department of Communication, Marketing, and Tourism, following allegations that he does not meet the minimum academic requirements for the role.
Recent reports suggested that Mbengashe either holds a fake qualification from an unaccredited international institution or lacks sufficient credentials for the position. These claims have raised serious concerns and prompted a legal challenge.
This week, the city provided detailed clarification on the status of Mbengashe’s qualifications and the legal proceedings linked to his appointment.
“The city acknowledges the social media commentary regarding the authenticity of the HOD’s academic qualifications.
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“The city confirms that during the initial recruitment process, all requisite vetting and verification of qualifications were conducted in strict accordance with relevant municipal regulations and city human resources policies,” said metro spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
Dlamini said that following public allegations, the Gauteng Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) referred Mbengashe’s international qualification to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for independent verification.
“On July 9, COGTA confirmed that SAQA had concluded its verification of the qualification. COGTA explicitly stated, in its letter dated July 9, that SAQA ‘has confirmed the validity of the qualifications of Mbengashe.’”
Dlamini added: “The city welcomes this conclusive confirmation, which ensures the HOD’s appointment is fully supported by verified documentary evidence and is compliant with all requisite municipal standards.”
The city also confirmed that related allegations formed the basis of an urgent court application. The matter, heard on June 24, was subsequently struck off the roll on June 30.
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“The city underscores the importance of furnishing the public with verified information, substantiated by both institutional confirmations (SAQA) and the decisions of competent courts of law.
“The municipality remains committed to sound governance and an unwavering focus on service delivery. The city will continue to provide factual updates should any further material developments arise,” said Dlamini.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Employees & Civil Servants Union (MECSU) said the use or misrepresentation of qualifications for municipal positions has become a serious concern that the city must address.
This and other alleged irregularities within the metro, particularly in the EMPD, have recently come under the spotlight following testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Enquiry.
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