In a recent turn of events, Economist Thabi Leoka finds herself at the center of a storm, vehemently denying allegations that she misrepresented her doctoral qualifications. The controversy was sparked by a business publication, insinuating that this discrepancy led to her removal from the board of Remgro, a company under the ownership of billionaire Johann Rupert.
Legal Action and Health Reasons: Leoka’s Response
Thabi Leoka swiftly countered the claims, expressing her intention to take legal action against Business Day for the accusations made in their Tuesday publication. Contrary to the reported reasons for her departure, Leoka asserts that her exit from the board was solely due to health concerns.
Allegations of Falsified PhD: London School of Economics (LSE) Speaks
The Business Day report alleged that Leoka had falsified her Economics PhD from the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE). According to the publication, the LSE had no record of Leoka’s PhD in economics qualification.
Economist’s Credibility and Professional Background
Thabi Leoka, a highly regarded economist featured frequently in the media, serves as one of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s special economic envoys and is a member of the 19-strong presidential economic advisory panel. Additionally, she operates her own economic consultancy firm, Naha Advisory.
Educational Background and Name Change
While the controversy brews, it’s revealed that Leoka holds a Master of Science in Economics obtained in 2004 from LSE, where she achieved a merit, as evidenced by documents from the institution. Notably, she has occupied influential positions in various companies and boards, including MTN, Anglo American, Renaissance Capital, Standard Bank, Barclays Wealth, and Investec Asset Management.
Denial, Name Change, and Medical Intervention
In an interview with Talk Radio 702, Leoka vehemently denied falsifying her qualifications and attributed the confusion to a change in her names. Currently seeking medical intervention in the United States for a health condition, she refuted claims of being terminated by Remgro.
Name Change Confirmation and Legal Action
Leoka disclosed that she had officially changed her names with the Department of Home Affairs and suggested that her qualifications might be under a different name. A 2018 Government Gazette confirmed her name change from Bathabile to Thabi. Expressing her dismay at the tarnishing of her reputation, she affirmed her intention to respond legally to Business Day’s allegations.
Editor’s Response and Conclusion
Kabelo Khumalo, the Business Day markets editor who broke the story, expressed shock at Leoka’s public statements, emphasising the disparity between their private conversation and her public assertions. The unfolding drama promises legal repercussions, as Thabi Leoka fights to restore her professional standing in the face of these serious allegations.
