Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has pledged to raise South Africa’s SASSA old-age grant to R4,500 per month if his party assumes power. Speaking at the EFF’s provincial manifesto launch in North West, Malema emphasized that an EFF-led government would safeguard social grants and enhance financial assistance for pensioners. He criticized the current administration under the African National Congress (ANC) for providing what he perceives as insufficient support to the elderly, highlighting that pensioners have contributed to the nation through taxes during their working years.
Currently, the old-age grant stands at R2,400 per month, with those over 75 receiving R2,420. Malema has expressed dissatisfaction with these figures, as well as with the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, labeling it as inadequate. He has also advocated for the introduction of a new grant specifically for unemployed graduates. The EFF leader reiterated his proposal for the R4,500 grant during a speech in Mpumalanga, underscoring the financial burden on pensioners who often support their children and grandchildren.
Malema argues that the government could finance the proposed increase by utilizing public funds more efficiently. His remarks come as social grants, unemployment, and the rising cost of living are expected to be pivotal issues in the lead-up to the local government elections on 4 November. These topics remain at the forefront of political discourse as parties campaign to address the economic challenges facing South Africans.
The debate over social grants and their adequacy is poised to be a significant point of contention as political entities vie for voter support. Malema’s bold proposal aims to address the financial needs of pensioners, asserting that their contributions to society warrant greater recognition and assistance. As the election approaches, parties are likely to intensify their focus on how best to alleviate the economic pressures impacting citizens across the nation.