Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has pledged to raise South Africa’s SASSA old-age grant to R4,500 per month should his party assume power. This promise was made during the EFF’s provincial manifesto launch event held in North West. Malema emphasized that an EFF-led administration would safeguard social grants and enhance financial aid for pensioners.
Criticizing the ruling African National Congress (ANC), Malema expressed dissatisfaction with their alleged inadequate support for the elderly. He argued that pensioners deserve better financial backing as they have contributed to the nation’s economy through taxes throughout their careers. Currently, the old-age grant amounts to R2,400 monthly, with a slight increase to R2,420 for those over the age of 75.
During his address in Mpumalanga, Malema reiterated his proposal for the R4,500 grant, highlighting that many pensioners financially support their children and grandchildren. He believes the government could manage this increase by ensuring more efficient use of public funds. In addition to criticizing the current R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for being insufficient, Malema advocated for the introduction of a new grant aimed at unemployed graduates.
As South Africa approaches the local government elections set for November 4, issues such as social grants, unemployment, and the rising cost of living are anticipated to be focal points for political parties’ campaigns. Malema’s promises and critiques of existing government policies underscore the EFF’s positioning on these critical social issues.