Acting CEO Seshibe of SAA placed on ‘Special Leave’

Just four months after being appointed as the acting Group CEO of the state-owned airline South African Airways (SAA), Matshela Seshibe has been placed on “special leave”.

The SAA board confirmed this decision in a concise statement late Friday afternoon, although it did not provide any reasons for the action. Seshibe, who formerly led SAA’s AirChefs division, stepped into the acting CEO role following the unexpected resignation of previous CEO Prof John Lamola in April, along with three board members.

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“The board of SAA has resolved to place the acting Group CEO, Mr. Matshela Seshibe, on special leave, effective immediately, pending the outcome of an internal process,” the statement read.

“This decision reflects the board’s steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of good governance, accountability, integrity, and leadership.”

“It is also in line with the board’s duty to protect the interests of SAA, its employees, customers, partners, and other stakeholders while ensuring that the organization operates with stability and confidence,” the airline stated.

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“We acknowledge the responsibility bestowed upon us and will continue to act decisively in the best interests of the airline and all its stakeholders,” commented SAA board chair Sedzani Mudau.

“To maintain leadership continuity and operational stability, the board has appointed Chief Legal Officer Ms. Koekie Mbeki as acting group CEO effective immediately,” it announced.

The board remarked that “Mbeki brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and experience to SAA, having served the organization for the past decade.”

“The board is confident that, in her acting role, she will deliver the leadership, continuity, and stability necessary as SAA continues to implement its strategy and fulfill its mandate,” it concluded.