The African National Congress (ANC) in Ekurhuleni has publicly thrown its support behind Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, praising what it describes as “firm and decisive leadership” amid a growing scandal that has rocked the municipality and placed senior officials under intense scrutiny.

In a statement issued by ANC Ekurhuleni regional secretary Jongizizwe Dlabathi, the party welcomed the mayor’s swift intervention following developments linked to City Manager Kagiso Lerutla. The ANC says the mayor acted decisively to “safeguard the integrity of the institution” and ensure continuity in governance and service delivery.

However, behind the political reassurance, a high-profile criminal matter is now heading to court, with Lerutla and co-accused suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi set to appear at the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on 23 April 2026 for a formal bail application.

The pair are facing a raft of serious allegations, including fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act. Investigators are reportedly probing irregular municipal contracts, alleged manipulation of procurement processes, and suspicious financial transactions linked to public funds.

The case has already triggered widespread public interest, with questions being raised about how deeply alleged corruption may have penetrated key administrative structures within the Ekurhuleni metro.

While the ANC has made it clear that it will not comment on the merits of the matter, stressing respect for the judicial process, the political and public fallout has been immediate.

“We will not give any commentary or engage in speculation on the legal matter as it is currently before the law,” the party said. “We respect the judicial process and allow it to take its course without interference.”

Despite this cautious tone, the scandal has taken on a life of its own in public discourse, particularly around Lerutla’s alleged personal lifestyle and financial dealings.

Lerutla has been linked, in public commentary and social media conversations, to a circle of influencers known for displaying lavish lifestyles. These include luxury vehicles, expensive homes, designer fashion, and an overall image of wealth that has raised questions about income sources.

There have also been allegations circulating online connecting him to extravagant spending patterns, including cosmetic procedures such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL), allegedly linked to individuals in his social circle. While these claims have not been tested in court, they have intensified public scrutiny and fuelled debate about corruption in local government.

Images shared on social platforms appear to show high-end cars, luxury properties, and an opulent lifestyle, in stark contrast to ongoing service delivery challenges in parts of Ekurhuleni.

For many residents, the scandal has deepened long-standing frustrations about governance and accountability in the metro.

Mayor Xhakaza’s intervention is being framed by the ANC as an attempt to stabilise the city and protect administrative continuity while the legal process unfolds. The party insists that essential services will not be affected.

“The ANC Ekurhuleni remains confident that these developments will not disrupt the work of government,” the statement read. “We firmly believe that the business of delivering essential services to our communities will continue without interruption.”

But political observers say the situation places the municipality under significant pressure, with public trust hanging in the balance as senior officials face serious criminal allegations.

The upcoming court appearance in Boksburg is expected to be a key moment in the case. The bail application will likely shed light on the state’s evidence, the nature of the alleged financial misconduct, and the extent of the investigation.

As the scandal unfolds, the ANC has reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation closely, while maintaining that stability, accountability, and service delivery remain central priorities.

For now, Ekurhuleni finds itself at the centre of a political and legal storm — one where allegations of corruption, luxury lifestyles, and municipal power struggles are colliding in a highly public way.

All eyes will be on the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.