Fannie Masemola Resumes Duties as Police Commissioner Amid Political Violence Concerns Ahead of Elections
South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has resumed his duties following the lifting of his precautionary suspension, with political violence, police accountability and preparations for the upcoming local government elections among the key issues facing the police service.
Masemola returned to work on Monday, October 19, 2026, after President Cyril Ramaphosa lifted his suspension on October 16. The decision followed the withdrawal of criminal charges against him relating to alleged contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The Pretoria Magistrates’ Court formally withdrew the charges on September 22, 2026.
His return comes as South Africa prepares for the local government elections scheduled for November 4, 2026, amid concerns about attacks, intimidation and killings involving political party members and candidates.
On his first day back, Masemola met with provincial police commissioners and senior law enforcement officials to discuss operational readiness, potential hotspots, intelligence assessments and the allocation of personnel and resources ahead of the elections.
He also called for a comprehensive briefing from Crime Intelligence on incidents targeting political representatives and party members. The briefing is expected to help police assess threats, strengthen prevention strategies and improve investigations into politically motivated violence.
Masemola stressed that the police service must remain impartial and enforce the law without favouring any political party. He said political affiliation should not place anyone above the law and that all participants must be able to take part in democratic processes without fear or intimidation.
Beyond election security, the commissioner faces pressure to strengthen public confidence in the police service, which has come under scrutiny over allegations of corruption and misconduct.
His suspension followed charges linked to a controversial police health-services contract involving Medicare24, a company associated with businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. The charges against Masemola were subsequently withdrawn, and his suspension was lifted.
Masemola is also expected to focus on institutional reform, resource allocation, visible policing and strengthening unity within SAPS. The review of recommendations from the Madlanga Commission is among the broader accountability issues facing the policing system.
As preparations for the elections intensify, Masemola will be under pressure to ensure that police respond effectively to threats, protect political participants and maintain public order while upholding the rule of law.
