Stephan Lehman and Marietta Lombard
Edenvale Community Police Forum (ECPF) chairperson Linda McKenzie has taken a leave of absence.
This was announced at last night’s ECPF meeting by the forum’s vice chairperson, Prince Mathebula.
“In light of criminal charges laid against McKenzie, there will be no comment at this stage,” McKenzie’s legal representation, Martin John Hood from MJ Hood & Associates Attorneys, told the NEWS this morning after he confirmed that he still represents her. McKenzie also confirmed to the NEWS that Hood still represents her.
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Mathebula said McKenzie has “stepped away from all CPF activities until further notice”. He added that Mckenzie made her decision after a recent executive meeting with the SAPS.
The NEWS reported on June 7 that McKenzie had admitted to making statements which DA party leaders described as “alleged bribery, the abuse of her position and defamation”.
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It followed the release of an audio recording to the NEWS by the DA’s deputy chief whip of parliament, Mike Waters.
“During the phone call, McKenzie can be heard calling the Edenvale ward 18 councillor, Heather Hart, an ‘alcoholic’ and she describes her as ‘wicked’,” Waters told the NEWS.
