President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane as Acting National Commissioner of Police following the suspension of General Fannie Masemola.
The announcement was made during a media briefing on Thursday, 23 April, marking a significant development in the leadership of the South African Police Service.
Dimpane, who currently serves as Divisional Commissioner of Financial Management Services, brings nearly two decades of experience in policing, strategic management, and government financial systems.
Ramaphosa described her as a leader with “a reputation for professionalism and integrity,” adding that her appointment also reflects progress in advancing women into senior leadership roles.
“She will be supported by a strong team of experienced and dedicated police leadership,” Ramaphosa said. “A key priority will be to urgently address weaknesses in the procurement system for goods and services in the police service.”
The President acknowledged ongoing challenges within SAPS, particularly around governance and procurement, which have come under scrutiny in the ongoing Madlanga Commission.
“I would like to inform South Africans that we are taking steps forward to rebuild the policing service and make it fit enough to fight crime,” Ramaphosa said.
The leadership changes come at a time of heightened concern over stability within SAPS leadership.
The Democratic Alliance welcomed Masemola’s suspension, describing it as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the office while due process unfolds. However, the party also called for a full board of inquiry into his fitness to hold office, arguing that suspension alone is not sufficient.
At the same time, the DA raised concerns about the broader state of police leadership, noting that multiple senior officials have recently faced suspension or leave, which it said reflects deeper institutional challenges.
The developments come against the backdrop of ongoing concerns about crime, organised syndicates, and public confidence in policing.
Ramaphosa emphasised that stabilising leadership and strengthening systems within SAPS are critical to restoring trust and improving the country’s ability to combat crime effectively.
Dimpane now takes on the role at a crucial time, with expectations that her leadership will help steer the police service through a period of reform while ensuring continuity in operations.
