Koekie Mbeki Named Acting CEO of South African Airways as Matshela Seshibe Placed on Special Leave
Johannesburg, South Africa — August 14, 2026 — South African Airways (SAA) has appointed Koekie Mbeki as Acting Group Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect, replacing Matshela Seshibe, who has been placed on special leave pending the outcome of an internal process.
SAA’s board did not disclose the nature of the internal process, the reasons behind the decision or how long it is expected to last. The airline said the move reflects its commitment to good governance, accountability, integrity and leadership, while protecting the interests of SAA, its employees, customers and partners.
Koekie Mbeki takes over
Mbeki, SAA’s Chief Legal Officer, has been with the airline for approximately 10 years. The board said her extensive institutional knowledge would help ensure leadership continuity and operational stability while the internal process involving Seshibe is underway.
Her appointment comes only around four months after Seshibe became Acting Group CEO following the departure of Professor John Lamola.
Another leadership change in four months
Seshibe was appointed Acting Group CEO in April 2026 after Lamola stepped down. Before taking the position, he had served as CEO of Air Chefs, SAA’s catering subsidiary.
His appointment attracted attention because he came from a corporate and catering background rather than from the senior management of a major airline.
However, SAA has not indicated that Seshibe’s previous career or any earlier allegations are connected to the current internal process. The reasons for his immediate special leave have not been made public.
Leadership stability again under scrutiny
The latest change represents another significant leadership transition for SAA as the airline continues its post-restructuring recovery and seeks to strengthen its international network and commercial position.
SAA has been expanding international partnerships, including cooperation with major carriers such as Turkish Airlines and Emirates, while working to rebuild its position as South Africa’s national flag carrier.
The sudden replacement of its acting chief executive nevertheless introduces another period of uncertainty at the top of the airline.
What happens next?
For now, Koekie Mbeki will lead South African Airways on an acting basis while the board’s internal process continues.
SAA has not provided a timetable for the process, nor has it indicated whether Seshibe could eventually return to his position.
The immediate priority will be to maintain operational continuity while the airline addresses its latest leadership transition.
For SAA, the appointment of Mbeki is therefore more than a routine interim change. It comes at a critical moment for a carrier seeking to consolidate its recovery, expand internationally and establish greater long-term management stability.
Source: South African Airways
