Radio presenter and entertainer Sibusiso “DJ Sbu” Leope has denied any involvement in alleged corruption at the embattled Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality after being named as a purported beneficiary of graft.
The allegations were made by the municipality’s suspended head of legal services, advocate Kemi Behari, who claimed that Leope and his long-time business associate, Thembinkosi “TK” Nciza — a former ANC Gauteng provincial secretary — benefited from corrupt activities within the metro. Behari further alleged that attempts to take action against them were met with resistance.
Behari made the claims while giving evidence in a process in which he sought to explain his conduct amid allegations of gross negligence and possible involvement in the circumvention of disciplinary processes within the municipality.
In response, Leope issued a statement strongly denying any wrongdoing. While he did not explicitly confirm or deny having conducted business with the municipality, he rejected any suggestion of unlawful or unethical conduct.
“These allegations, which attempt to implicate myself and businessman Thembinkosi TK Nciza, are entirely false, defamatory and without any factual basis,” Leope said. “I categorically deny any involvement in wrongdoing, misconduct or unethical activity of any kind.”
Leope accused Behari of attempting to deflect attention from his own alleged misconduct by implicating high-profile individuals.
“I am deeply concerned that these allegations appear to be part of an attempt to divert attention from ongoing internal matters and personal accountability issues by creating false narratives involving respected public figures,” he said.
Leope and Nciza have previously faced public scrutiny over longstanding allegations that they benefited financially from the late musician Zahara, claims the artist maintained until her death last year. Both men have consistently denied those allegations.
Leope said he was confident that his name would be cleared and warned that he was considering legal action against those making what he described as defamatory claims.
“I reserve all my legal rights and remedies in relation to these defamatory statements and will not hesitate to pursue appropriate action should these false claims continue to damage my reputation and personal brand,” he said. “I remain confident that due process, truth and transparency will ultimately prevail.”