South African President Suspends Police Chief Over Controversial $21 Million Contract

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, effective immediately. The suspension comes as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption involving Masemola and the awarding of a 360-million-rand healthcare contract to Medicare24.

Masemola is accused of violating procurement laws in the tender process for the health services contract, which was worth 21.7 million dollars. Prosecutors allege that Medicare24 colluded with police officials to secure the tender, resulting in payments of over 50 million rand to businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Masemola appeared in court on Tuesday to face four counts of violating the Public Finance Act, but the case was postponed until May 13. He has denied the allegations.

In a statement, Ramaphosa explained that Masemola’s suspension was deemed necessary due to the seriousness of the charges and his critical role as national commissioner of police. Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane will serve as acting commissioner.

This development follows a series of corruption scandals within the criminal justice system, which were revealed by a commission of inquiry appointed by Ramaphosa last year. The commission was established in July after allegations of corruption and political interference compromised criminal investigations.

The suspension is part of an effort to address public concerns about corruption ahead of local elections scheduled for November.

Source: Al Jazeera