The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced that it will open criminal charges against former Ekurhuleni City Manager Dr Imogen Mashazi and businessman Ze Nxumalo, following allegations of irregularities linked to municipal tender processes in the City of Ekurhuleni.The case centres on claims that a R3.

5 million private jet trip taken by Mashazi to London in 2022 may have been financed by individuals or companies that later benefited from city contracts.

According to the DA, its Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate Khathutshelo Rasilingwane will formally lay the charges at the Germiston Police Station, arguing that the matter requires urgent investigation by law enforcement authorities.

The allegations suggest possible links between municipal procurement processes and private business interests, raising concerns about whether public resources or influence were improperly used for private gain.

The issue has also been referenced in proceedings of the Madlanga Commission, where Mashazi previously testified in response to corruption and misconduct allegations.

She has faced accusations of abuse of power and interference in disciplinary matters within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), including claims that she protected senior officials from disciplinary action.

While the commission’s findings have expanded the scope of scrutiny, they have also referred several officials for further criminal investigation, particularly regarding the private jet trip allegedly linked to companies holding municipal contracts.

Authorities are expected to examine whether tender processes were influenced improperly and whether there was any breach of public office responsibilities.Neither Mashazi nor Nxumalo has been convicted of any wrongdoing, and both are entitled to the presumption of innocence as investigations proceed.The case is likely to intensify political debate around procurement practices, governance, and accountability within the Ekurhuleni metro.