Cyril Ramaphosa suspends Fannie Masemola, appoints acting commissioner
President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on precautionary suspension.
Black News 
President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on precautionary suspension amid allegations linked to a controversial multimillion-rand health services tender.
Masemola is accused of flouting procurement processes in a now-cancelled 2024 contract within the South African Police Service, reportedly worth approximately R360 million, awarded to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s Medicare24.
‘Necessary move’
In announcing the decision, Ramaphosa said the move was necessary given the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the office.
“In consideration of the seriousness of these charges and the critical role that the national commissioner of police plays… I have agreed with General Masemola that he be deemed to be on precautionary suspension pending the conclusion of the case,” he said.
Government has since appointed Puleng Dimpane as Acting National Commissioner to ensure continuity within SAPS while investigations unfold.
DA welcomes move, but demands inquiry
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed Fannie Masemola’s suspension, describing it as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the office and ensure the police service continues to function.
However, the party says the action does not go far enough.
The DA has reiterated its call for a formal board of inquiry into Masemola’s fitness to hold office, arguing that the seriousness of the allegations requires full and transparent scrutiny.
“Suspension alone is not enough,” the party said, warning that accountability must not be “delayed, diluted or quietly avoided.”
‘Institution in crisis’
The DA also raised broader concerns about leadership within SAPS, pointing out that multiple senior figures – including the police minister, national commissioner and a deputy national commissioner – have recently faced suspension or been placed on leave.
“This is not a sign of a healthy police service. It is a sign of an institution in profound crisis at the highest level,” the party said.
The opposition warned that ongoing scandals risk further eroding public trust in law enforcement at a time when violent crime, gang activity and organised criminal networks continue to affect communities across the country.
Calls for reform
The DA said a long-term solution requires stronger accountability measures, including vetting, lifestyle audits and merit-based appointments.
It argued that restoring credibility within SAPS is essential to rebuilding public confidence and ensuring effective policing.
“The President has a constitutional duty to ensure that the police service functions effectively,” the party said, adding that the current situation requires decisive action rather than temporary fixes.
Ongoing investigation
Fannie Masemola remains on suspension pending the outcome of investigations into the tender scandal, which is expected to have far-reaching implications for SAPS leadership and governance.
Authorities have not ruled out further action as the probe continues.
