Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended the country’s national police commissioner, Fannie Masemola, over allegations of financial misconduct linked to a multimillion-dollar contract, deepening a growing corruption crisis within the police force.
Masemola was suspended on Thursday after being charged with violating procurement and public finance laws in the awarding of a 360-million-rand ($21.7 million) contract for police healthcare services.
The contract was awarded to Medicare24, a company owned by businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, who has been linked by investigators to organised crime. Authorities allege the firm colluded with police officials to secure the deal, receiving over 50 million rand before the contract was eventually cancelled.
Masemola appeared briefly in court earlier this week, facing four counts of breaching the Public Finance Act. The case has been adjourned until May 13, and he has denied all allegations.
The suspension marks a rare upheaval at the top of South African Police Service, with the police minister, commissioner, and deputy commissioner all either suspended or placed on leave in recent months.
In the interim, Puleng Dimpane, the force’s chief financial officer, has been appointed acting commissioner. Ramaphosa described her as a professional with a strong track record of integrity.
The latest development follows the establishment of a commission of inquiry into alleged corruption and political interference within the police, which led to the earlier suspension of former police minister Senzo Mchunu.
The scandal adds to mounting pressure on the government as South Africa prepares for local elections in November, with corruption expected to be a key issue for voters.
Analysts say the handling of the case could significantly influence public trust in the ruling coalition, as concerns over governance and accountability continue to dominate the political landscape.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
