By Johnathan Paoli
Charges against suspended National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola have officially been withdrawn, bringing a pause to his prosecution over the controversial Medicare24-SAPS health services tender worth R228 million awarded to alleged crime boss Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
Masemola made a brief appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Tuesday morning, where the state informed the court that all charges against him were being withdrawn.
Speaking to the media outside court, Masemola said: “I would like to thank everyone who prayed for me, it has been a tough journey, I must say.”
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He was facing four charges relating to alleged contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) in connection with the tender awarded to Matlala’s company, Medicare24 Tshwane.
At least R50 million was paid under the contract before SAPS cancelled it in May 2025 after concerns were raised about the procurement process.
The withdrawal means Masemola will no longer share a dock with Matlala and senior police officers accused of involvement in the awarding of the contract.
Masemola said the past five months were a painful period, but that he was ready to return to his position.
“Going back to work? Well I am eager to go back and serve the country,” Masemola said.
He said the case had taken a heavy toll on him and his family.
He also called for changes to the criminal justice system, saying that investigative and prosecutorial functions should be separated.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago previously defended the decision to withdraw the charges, saying prosecutors needed sufficient evidence to support a successful prosecution.
Masemola was placed on precautionary suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa following the criminal charges against him.
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His prosecution had also come under scrutiny during testimony before the Madlanga Commission, which heard allegations that Masemola had been targeted by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as part of an effort to remove him from his position.
The suspended national commissioner now awaits a decision from the Presidency on whether he will return to the office.
