Ekurhuleni reinstates EMPD media unit, returns Lt Col Thepa to lead communications
Zuko Komisa
- The City of Ekurhuleni has formally reinstated the EMPD Media and Public Relations Unit to align communications with governance prescripts and structure.
- Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa was returned to her position as Head of the unit, a move the City Manager stated is vital for strengthening transparency and accountability.
- This City stated that administrative governance intervention does not pre-empt the findings of the ongoing Madlanga Commission, but ensures the EMPD’s communications structures are sound and fit for purpose.
The City of Ekurhuleni has formally reinstated the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Media and Public Relations Unit as a dedicated function within the department.
This administrative move is intended to align the EMPD’s communications practices with the City’s approved organisational structure, governance prescripts, and policies.
Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa has been returned to her substantive position as Head of the unit.
City Manager Mr. Kagiso Lerutla stated that the reinstatement is a corrective governance measure to ensure professional, consistent, and accountable communication, which he deemed essential for law enforcement in a constitutional democracy.
The move aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the EMPD, supporting the City’s broader Renewal Programme for clean governance.
The reinstated unit will coordinate media inquiries, manage public information campaigns, and strengthen crisis communication capacity.
The City clarified that this is a governance intervention and does not pre-empt the findings of the ongoing Madlanga Commission or any labour processes related to issues that have been raised concerning EMPD’s communication practices.