Pretoria:Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has expressed approval of President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to end the precautionary suspension of National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola. The suspension was lifted after criminal charges against Masemola were officially withdrawn, and he is set to resume his duties on Monday, 19 October 2026.
According to South African Government News Agency, the charges against Masemola were related to alleged violations of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), which had led to his appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates' Court. However, these charges were formally dropped following an instruction from National Prosecuting Authority Head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, in September.
Cachalia also extended gratitude to Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane for her role as Acting National Commissioner during Masemola's suspension. He emphasized the Ministry's dedication to strengthening the South African Police Service (SAPS) through the Police Reset Agenda, which focuses on enhancing professionalism, accountability, and ensuring the police service remains committed to its constitutional duties.
The reinstatement of Masemola is seen as a chance for police leadership to concentrate on essential operational goals and continue developing a professional, competent, and trustworthy police force in line with the Police Reset Agenda.