Retirement Row: City manager Imogen Mashazi defies Ekurhuleni council’s special leave order, citing illegality

By Johnathan Paoli

The standoff between the City of Ekurhuleni and its long-serving city manager, Dr Imogen Mashazi, over her refusal to accept an early exit ahead of her retirement, remains unresolved as the city council noted correspondence between Mashazi and Executive mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza.

Mashazi has been placed on special leave, pending her retirement.

She is supposed to retire in August when she turns 65 but wants to remain in office until her contract expires in 2027.

The city council met on Tuesday to discuss whether the decision to put her on special leave should be reversed.

This comes as Xhakaza seeks legal advice regarding the legality of the council’s decision to place Mashazi on special leave.

Mashazi was granted special leave two weeks ago, with the city citing legislation that prohibits individuals over the age of 65 from occupying senior positions.

Spokesperson for the Office of City Manager,