City of Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza. Picture: Gallo Images It has been reported that mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza was present at Mfihlo’s murder scene, but police only revealed this when a new team of investigators took over the case two years later. Xhakaza’s mysterious ejection from the crime scene has raised eyebrows.
But prosecutors in the case of murdered Ekurhuleni chief auditor Mpho Mafole have now combined both cases. Mafole was gunned down last year. He had discovered irregularities in the procurement processes for the municipality’s chemical toilet contract, worth billions.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brenda Muridili could not confirm or deny if Xhakaza is a suspect in Mfihlo’s murder. She said police do not name suspects before they are arrested and have appeared in court. Speaking toThe Citizenon Wednesday, Xhakaza’s spokesperson, Ramatolo Tlotleng, rubbished claims that the mayor could be linked to Mfihlo’s murder.
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“It is important to allow due legal processes to unfold without speculation, conjecture, or undue interference which may place individuals in a ‘trial by media.’ “The mayor continues to respect the authority and independence of the South African Police Service and reiterates his call for justice to be served with the utmost urgency, without fear, favour or prejudice,” said Tlotleng. Tlotleng said Xhakaza would soon hold a media briefing to explain his role in the investigation into Mfihlo’s death. But he said the mayor is a law-abiding citizen.
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