Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has pledged to raise South Africa’s SASSA old-age grant to R4,500 monthly if his party assumes power. This promise was made during the EFF’s provincial manifesto launch in North West, where Malema highlighted the party’s commitment to safeguarding social grants and enhancing financial support for the elderly. He criticized the ruling African National Congress (ANC) for their perceived lack of support for senior citizens, stating that pensioners have contributed to the nation’s coffers through taxes during their working years.
Currently, the old-age grant in South Africa is set at R2,400 per month, with a slightly higher amount of R2,420 for those over 75. Malema also took aim at the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, deeming it inadequate, and advocated for the introduction of a new grant aimed at unemployed graduates. During a speech in Mpumalanga, Malema reiterated his proposal for the R4,500 grant, emphasizing that pensioners frequently provide financial support to their children and grandchildren.
Malema argued that the government could afford the proposed increase in grants if public funds were managed more effectively. His statements are part of the broader discourse on social grants, unemployment, and the escalating cost of living, which are anticipated to be pivotal issues as political parties gear up for the local government elections scheduled for November 4.
As the election season approaches, these social and economic challenges are expected to be at the forefront of the political agenda. The debate over how best to support South Africa’s most vulnerable populations is likely to intensify, with parties like the EFF promising significant changes to the existing welfare system.