Ramaphosa Lifts Suspension of Police Chief Masemola

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has lifted the precautionary suspension of national police commissioner Fannie Masemola following the withdrawal of criminal charges against him.

Police chief set to resume duties

Masemola was suspended in April 2026 after facing charges relating to alleged contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act. The case was linked to a controversial police healthcare tender.

Prosecutors ordered the charges withdrawn in September after reviewing the evidence, and a Pretoria court formally withdrew them on September 22.

Acting commissioner recognised

Masemola is expected to resume his full duties on October 19. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia welcomed the decision and praised Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane for leading the police service during his suspension.