South Africa’s national police commissioner Fannie Masemola appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Monday facing four counts of violating the Public Finance Management Act. The charges relate to a R360 million contract awarded to Medicare24 Tshwane District to provide health and wellness services to police officers.
Why it matters
The country’s most senior law enforcement official now faces criminal charges for financial mismanagement. If convicted, Masemola faces up to five years in prison or a fine.
The allegations
Prosecutors allege Masemola failed to take effective steps to prevent unauthorised, irregular and wasteful expenditure. He is also accused of failing to halt payments to Medicare24, a company owned by businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, which had allegedly not complied with its contractual obligations.
The state further alleges Masemola did not ensure the company was properly screened or tax-compliant before it began providing services to the South African Police Service.
A wider scandal
Masemola is not alone. At least 12 senior police officers have been arrested and charged with fraud, corruption and money laundering in connection with the same tender. When the case resumes on 13 May, Masemola will be joined in the dock by Matlala and 15 other accused.
No resignation
Speaking to reporters after his appearance, Masemola said the decision on his future lay with President Cyril Ramaphosa. He said he would continue with his normal duties.
The Democratic Alliance has called for Masemola to step aside, arguing that a sitting commissioner facing criminal charges undermines public trust in the police service.
What happens next
The case resumes on 13 May in Pretoria. Masemola has not yet entered a plea to the charges.