President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended national police commissioner Fannie Masemola, citing Masemola's critical role in fighting crime as the basis for the action.

Suspension linked to health contract

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended national police commissioner Fannie Masemola in connection with a controversial health contract worth approximately $21 million.

Ramaphosa said the suspension was warranted precisely because of the critical role Masemola plays in fighting crime — an acknowledgement of the commissioner's seniority even as formal proceedings move forward against him.

Masemola faces charges related to alleged failures in oversight duties connected to the contract, according to court filings.

Corruption pressure ahead of polls

The move comes as Ramaphosa faces heightened pressure to demonstrate credible action against corruption in the lead-up to elections. The police chief's suspension is among the most senior accountability actions taken under that pressure.

Masemola is accused of failing to exercise proper oversight in his official capacity in relation to the health contract at the centre of the case.