South Africa: Outrageous That Julius Mkhwanazi Earns R1.2-Million While in Jail

What the report says

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has raised questions about the continued pay of Julius Mkhwanazi, an Ekurhuleni official who, the party says, has received about R1.2-million from municipal ratepayers while being held in jail. The statement was issued by DA Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate Khathutshelo Rasilingwane Mpl and published by AllAfrica on 30 August 2026. The claim is based on an answer DA members say they received from Gauteng MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo.

According to the DA account, Mkhwanazi has been arrested five times on five charges and has not been granted bail. The party argues that he is not contributing to the city while in custody and should not continue receiving a salary. It also says the situation reflects broader concerns about corruption and accountability in Ekurhuleni.

The statement further points to Ekurhuleni City Manager Lerutla, whom the DA says should have suspended Mkhwanazi or encouraged his resignation. The party says that has not happened despite repeated pressure. In general terms, the dispute highlights how South African municipalities handle pay, discipline and suspension issues for officials facing criminal cases, though the article itself presents only the DA’s position and does not include a response from the municipality or Mkhwanazi.