South African Airways has placed acting Group CEO Matshela Seshibe on special leave with immediate effect, appointing chief legal officer Koekie Mbeki as interim head while an internal process runs. The move affects leadership at South Africa’s national carrier just four months after Seshibe took over following the departure of Professor John Lamola.
SAA did not disclose the nature of the process or identify any allegations. The board limited its public explanation to the leadership change and the need to preserve continuity during the review.
Seshibe’s appointment had already attracted scrutiny because of his previous executive role at Air Chefs and past governance questions linked to Daybreak Farms. Mbeki’s temporary elevation is intended to keep the airline operationally stable as the board works through the internal matter.