South Africa’s national police commissioner has been formally charged over his alleged failure to properly oversee a controversial multimillion-dollar health contract now at the...

South Africa’s national police commissioner has been formally charged over his alleged failure to properly oversee a controversial multimillion-dollar health contract now at the centre of a wider corruption probe. Fannie Masemola, 62, appeared briefly before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court after being summoned in connection with the awarding of a $21m (£15.5m) tender for police health services. The contract, granted in 2024, was later scrapped in May 2025 amid mounting concerns over irregularities. Masemola faces four counts under South Africa’s Public Finance Management Act, which sets out strict responsibilities for officials managing public funds. As the police service’s accounting officer, prosecutors allege he failed to ensure proper oversight and compliance. Speaking outside court, Masemola rejected the accusations, insisting...