Masemola's tender corruption scandal raises questions about his future

With the national Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola now officially accused in tender corruption scandal, questions about his future in office continue to linger.

On Tuesday, Masemola made his appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates Court.

He is accused of contravening the Public Finance Management Act in the awarding of the multimillion-rand Medicare24 tender.

This is the same tender that led to charges against Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and 12 police officers.

When asked about his future as the national commissioner and his conversations with President Cyril Ramaphosa, Masemola said: “Well, I can’t disclose those discussions, leave it until it has been discussed and then you’ll be notified.”

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For now, Masemola is still the top cop, but there is no indication from the police ministry or the president on his status.

But legal analyst Kabelo Seabi said that Masemola staying in office is problematic

“Particularly if you have regard to the Police Act. That act says once there is a question on the fitness to hold office of the national commissioner, certain steps must be taken.”

Masemola forms part of a string of national police commissioners who have been criminally charged, with former commissioners Jackie Selebi and Khomotso Phahlane also having stood accused of crimes.

When Masemola returns to court in May, he will sit next to dodgy tender tycoon Matlala and the 12 police officers facing corruption charges.