‘I want to serve the country’: Fannie Masemola ready to return to work after IDAC-motivated charges dropped - IOL

Suspended SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola tells journalists at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court that he is ready to return to work.

Suspended SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola says he is ready to return to work immediately, declaring he wants to “serve the country” after corruption-related charges against him were dropped at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

“I want to thank everyone who prayed for me; it has been a tough journey I must say,” Masemola told journalists outside court.

The National Prosecuting Authority’s decision brings an end to a case that placed the senior police officer under intense scrutiny and kept him away from his duties.

Masemola said he remained willing to resume his responsibilities should President Cyril Ramaphosa instruct him to report for duty.

“I am eager to get back to work and serve the country, but I will still have to wait for the employer,” he said.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Masemola described the experience as deeply painful.

“It has been tough, a very painful road that I had to go through… I managed but I don’t wish anyone to go through this very same route,” he said.

Masemola had faced four counts of contravening Section 38 of the Public Finance Management Act, relating to responsibilities attached to an accounting officer.

The prosecution was pursued by the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).

The case has since come under scrutiny before the Madlanga Commission, where testimony raised questions about the basis on which Masemola was investigated and prosecuted.

Evidence presented to the commission included claims that investigators lacked sufficient evidence and that required statutory procedures had not been followed.

Prosecutor Drushantha Ramsamy also testified about allegations concerning former IDAC head Andrea Johnson’s handling of the investigation, including claims that Masemola was subjected to efforts to uncover damaging information.

The commission also heard there were questions about Masemola’s inclusion alongside other accused people linked to a controversial R360 million tender.

Asked what should be done to prevent similar disputes over alleged falsification of information, Masemola said investigations should remain the responsibility of investigators and warned against confusing separate issues.