The unsettling revelation of Thabi Leoka, a distinguished economist in South Africa, has sent shockwaves through the nation. The prominent economist, renowned for her insights and expertise, has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding her claimed PhD in economics from the esteemed London School of Economics (LSE).
An extensive inquiry conducted by Daily Maverick has unearthed astonishing findings, raising serious doubts about the authenticity of Leoka’s academic qualifications. Despite her sworn testimony before the Commission of Inquiry into Higher Education and Training, attesting to her possession of a PhD from the LSE, no concrete evidence can be found to substantiate such a claim.
Daily Maverick’s persistent efforts to obtain documentation validating Leoka’s alleged PhD have been met with silence. Both the LSE and the University of London have unequivocally stated that there is no record of Leoka being conferred a PhD from their institutions.
In the wake of an exposé by Business Day highlighting Leoka’s alleged academic misconduct, the economist has responded with a bewildering defiance, falsely asserting that Daily Maverick had absolved her of any wrongdoing while threatening legal repercussions.
Of particular concern is Leoka’s pivotal role as an expert witness before the commission initiated by former President Jacob Zuma following the disruptive #FeesMustFall protests in 2015. Her testimony, under oath, now casts a shadow of doubt and raises crucial questions about the integrity of her academic claims.
The gravity of this situation demands immediate clarity and transparency, not only for the reputational integrity of Thabi Leoka but also for the public and academic institutions she has engaged with. Media Talk Africa remains dedicated to pursuing the truth and upholding journalistic diligence in the interest of the public.
