South Africa: Police chief suspended over $20m health contract

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola following charges related to a controversial R360 million ($21 million) health contract.

Masemola faces allegations of violating the Public Finance Management Act regarding a 2024 contract awarded to a company linked to organised crime.

The contract was cancelled in 2025 following a commission of inquiry that uncovered severe irregularities, with twelve other senior officials also facing charges in the case.

“I know that I’m not guilty, I’m not wrong, but the [law] must take its course”. Masemola told journalists after Tuesday’s hearing that he denied the charges.

He is the third South African police chief to face a criminal investigation while in office.

While Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane has been appointed as acting commissioner, the move highlights ongoing leadership crises within the South African police force.