THEPA REINSTATED AS EMPD SPOKESPERSON AFTER MADLANGA COMMISSION APPEARANCE

Lt-Col. Kelebogile Thepa

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

Lt-Col. Kelebogile Thepa has been reinstated as the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) spokesperson, following her testimony at the Madlanga Commission.

The City of Ekurhuleni's decision follows an internal review of the EMPD's communications arrangements and aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the department.

Thepa's reinstatement is seen as a corrective governance measure, ensuring the EMPD's communications functions operate within an approved structure, with clear reporting lines and proper oversight. City Manager Kagiso Lerutla emphasized the importance of professional communication in a constitutional democracy, supporting the city's Renewal Programme and reinforcing clean governance and institutional integrity.

Thepa's appearance before the commission revealed allegations of threats, harassment, and forceful removal from her position, linked to her handling of the blue lights saga. Suspended EMPD acting chief Brig. Julius Mkhwanazi has been accused of assisting in fitting Vusimuzi "CAT" Matlala's vehicle with municipal blue lights.

The city maintains that Thepa's reinstatement is an administrative and governance intervention, not influencing the commission's findings or ongoing labour processes.