The Public Protector has found that former Ekurhuleni City Manager Dr Imogen Mashazi committed improper conduct in the appointment of a senior official in the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD).
The finding relates to the appointment of Ndumiso Gcwabe as Divisional Head for Security and Loss Control, a position that required a qualification at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.
According to the Public Protector's investigation, Gcwabe did not possess the required qualification for the position.
The investigation also found that the City of Ekurhuleni's verification process failed to confirm Gcwabe's NQF level with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
As part of its remedial action, the Public Protector has directed the Executive Mayor to table the report before the municipal council.
Council has also been instructed to consider approaching the courts to review the appointment process.
The current city manager has further been directed to provide training to HR practitioner Bongani Khoza, who remains employed by the municipality.
The Public Protector's findings place the appointment process under further scrutiny, with the municipality now required to consider the recommended remedial steps.