Ramaphosa Reinstates Fannie Masemola As National Police Commissioner

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola will return to his position on Monday after President Cyril Ramaphosa lifted his precautionary suspension. The announcement was made on Friday, following the withdrawal of charges against Masemola in September.

Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane, who served as acting commissioner during his absence, will hand over the responsibilities as Masemola resumes his duties.

The Fannie Masemola reinstatement follows a decision by Ramaphosa to lift the suspension agreed upon in April 2026.

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The commissioner had appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on charges of contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) in connection with a R360 million SAPS health-services tender awarded to Medicare24. His suspension was precautionary while the legal proceedings were under way.

Charges Against Fannie Masemola Withdrawn In September

The Fannie Masemola case took a turn in September when National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi instructed that the charges against him be withdrawn after a review found no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution. The Pretoria Magistrates’ Court formally withdrew the charges on 22 September 2026. The withdrawal paved the way for the decision to lift his suspension.

Ramaphosa Thanks Acting Commissioner Puleng Dimpane

In announcing the Fannie Masemola reinstatement, Ramaphosa welcomed the commissioner’s return to his full duties and thanked Dimpane for her service during the interim period. Dimpane, who is the SAPS chief financial officer, was appointed acting national commissioner while Masemola was on suspension. The Presidency said she had served with distinction in the role.

Masemola is expected to resume his responsibilities on Monday, 19 October 2026.