SASSA says it respects the constitutional right to peaceful protest but is urging beneficiaries and interest groups to engage directly with the agency. Image: AI Generated.
Social Grant
1Min
South Africa
SASSA invites dialogue as planned protests by beneficiaries gain momentum
SASSA says it respects the constitutional right to peaceful protest but is urging beneficiaries and interest groups to engage directly with the agency, insisting constructive dialogue is the best way to address concerns and improve service delivery.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has extended an invitation to beneficiaries and interest groups to engage directly with the agency amid reports of planned nationwide pickets over concerns about its services.
The agency's response follows the circulation of videos on social media calling for protests in various parts of the country, with the Western Cape reportedly expected to be the focal point. The calls have been linked to a popular TikTok content creator who claims to represent SASSA beneficiaries.
Although SASSA said it is not aware of the specific issues behind the planned demonstrations, Chief Executive Officer Themba Matlou said the agency respects the constitutional right of individuals to protest peacefully.
However, he encouraged those with concerns to use formal engagement channels, saying open dialogue would provide a better opportunity to address grievances and explain the agency's decisions.
"We would welcome the opportunity for individuals and interest groups to engage with us openly and honestly on any concerns they may have. While we respect the planned pickets, we believe that constructive and robust engagement provides the best platform to explain our initiatives and demonstrate that every decision we make is guided by the relevant legislative and policy frameworks," Matlou said.
He stressed that SASSA remains committed to serving the country's most vulnerable citizens and ensuring that every decision is made in accordance with the law and government policy.
Matlou said the agency welcomes constructive criticism aimed at improving service delivery, protecting public funds and advancing the interests of grant beneficiaries.
He also reiterated that SASSA is intensifying efforts to safeguard the integrity of the social grant system by ensuring that only eligible beneficiaries receive grants. The agency continues to strengthen measures to combat fraud and corruption, both within its operations and among external parties.
As SASSA marks its 20th anniversary since its establishment in 2006, Matlou acknowledged that while the agency has made significant progress over the years, more work remains to improve services.
"We remain committed to strengthening our services and will not rest until we provide even better service to the people of South Africa," he said.
