CoJ in hot water over questionable appointment

JOHANNESBURG – Lesiba Arnold Malotana was labelled ‘high risk’ by a Special Investigating Unit lifestyle audit.

He now faces a new court challenge over his appointment as Johannesburg head of Public Safety.

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The City of Johannesburg’s recruitment report shows two screenings against Malotana, where the first one cleared him of any security risk.

The second report triggered the SIU classification and a potential security threat. Despite this, the City took legal advice and pushed ahead with his appointment – subject to some conditions.

“It is legislated as part of the Constitution and PFMA that we need public office bearers of high standard,” says Joburg’s Crisis Alliance Julia Fish.

“It should be an absolute no-questions-asked that this person has integrity,” she adds.

Malotana has a history in emergency medical care and senior health management. He previously headed Gauteng EMS, he has a Masters in Emergency Medical Care and was suspended as Gauteng Health HOD in October 2025.

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His bid to have the labour court overturn his suspension failed.

The SIU found R1.63 million in questionable deposits and identified six bank accounts, of which, only four were disclosed.

Malotana has had unexplained company transactions, reported links to a Tembisa Hospital supplier and it recommended a full forensic investigation.

The SIU confirmed it is conducting a forensic investigation into Malotana on behalf of the Gauteng Premier’s office.

The City insists due process was followed and says Malotana is competent, ranked first and met all the job requirements.

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In the absence of a conviction or final misconduct finding, there was also no legal barrier to his appointment.

The Democratic Alliance is challenging his appointment in court, while the Joburg Crisis Alliance plans to approach the Public Protector.