Julius Malema, the leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has pledged to raise the SASSA old-age grant to R4,500 per month if his party comes to power. Speaking at a provincial manifesto launch in the North West, Malema emphasized the EFF’s commitment to bolstering financial support for pensioners and safeguarding social grants. He criticized the current government, led by the African National Congress (ANC), for failing to provide adequate support to the elderly, who he argued have contributed significantly to the nation through years of paying taxes.
Currently, South Africa’s old-age grant provides R2,400 monthly, with those over 75 receiving slightly more at R2,420. Malema described these amounts as insufficient and took aim at the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, labeling it inadequate. Additionally, he proposed the introduction of a new grant specifically for unemployed graduates. During another address in Mpumalanga, Malema reiterated his R4,500 grant proposal, highlighting the fact that many pensioners are responsible for financially supporting their children and grandchildren.
The EFF leader argued that the government could afford the proposed increase in pension grants if public funds were managed more efficiently. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about social welfare, unemployment, and the escalating cost of living, which are expected to be key issues in the upcoming local government elections set for November 4.
As political parties gear up for the elections, the EFF’s focus on social grants and financial support for the elderly aims to resonate with voters who are feeling the pressure of economic challenges. Malema’s criticisms of the ANC and his proposals for grant increases underscore his party’s platform of economic reform and social justice.