Thabi Leoka steps down from MTN over PhD scandal

Thabi Leoka, the businesswoman who is currently facing accusations of providing false information about her academic qualifications, has resigned from the board of MTN South Africa amid the ongoing scandal.  

MTN South Africa announced her immediate resignation as a non-executive director, citing her need to address health concerns and the scrutiny surrounding her academic credentials. Leoka had served on the telecommunications operator’s board since 2019. 

The resignation from MTN South Africa came on the same day that Anglo American Platinum disclosed Leoka’s departure from its board of directors. The controversy gained momentum last week when Business Day reported that she had stepped down from Remgro’s board in December, with allegations of misrepresenting her qualifications.  

Leoka had claimed to hold a PhD in economics from the London School of Economics, a statement unsupported by evidence. Despite the LSE confirming no record of her PhD, Leoka initially maintained the accuracy of her credentials.