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 takes power. This promise came during the EFF’s provincial manifesto launch in the North West province, where Malema emphasized that an EFF-led administration would prioritize safeguarding social grants and enhancing financial assistance for the elderly.
Malema took the opportunity to criticize the ruling African National Congress (ANC), accusing them of failing to adequately support senior citizens. He contended that pensioners have supported the nation through their tax contributions during their working years and deserve better compensation in their retirement.
Currently, the old-age grant in South Africa is set at R2,400 monthly, with a slightly higher amount of R2,420 for beneficiaries over 75. Malema also criticized the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, labeling it as insufficient, and proposed the introduction of a new grant specifically for unemployed graduates.
Reiterating his proposal for the R4,500 grant at an event in Mpumalanga, Malema argued that many pensioners are financially responsible not only for themselves but also for their children and grandchildren. He suggested that the government could manage this increase by ensuring more efficient use of public funds.
With social grants, unemployment, and escalating living costs poised to be key issues, political parties are gearing up for the local government elections scheduled for November 4. The EFF’s proposed measures aim to address these concerns and position the party as an advocate for improved social welfare.