Thousands of South African pensioners have been left in distress after the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) suspended their old age grants, citing “additional income” as the reason. The decision has triggered widespread concern, especially among senior citizens whose only source of support is the monthly R2,310 grant.
The move to halt payments from June 2025 has left many vulnerable elders without money for food, medication, and other basic needs. Local councillors and political leaders are calling for urgent action, arguing that small amounts received from family or informal business activities should not disqualify pensioners.
“Not Wealth—Just Survival” Say Councillors
Niel Patchapen, councillor from African Democratic Change in eThekwini, said many pensioners are being punished for trying to survive. “It’s heartless. A child sending groceries or a granny selling veggies isn’t fraud—it’s survival,” he said.
He called for a total review of the process and insisted that no grant should be cut without proper investigation. “Sassa must act with compassion, not cruelty,” Patchapen added.
DA councillor Alicia Kissoon echoed similar concerns. “These once-off deposits or side incomes don’t mean they’re rich. These are desperate acts to make ends meet,” she said. Kissoon also emphasised the importance of clear communication, saying pensioners were often left in the dark about why their grants were suspended.
Legal and Human Rights Under Scrutiny
Shameen Thakur-Rajbansi of the Minority Front said the decision may be unconstitutional. Referring to Section 27 of the Bill of Rights, she argued that social security is a legal right for those unable to support themselves.
She called for the implementation of the Older Persons Act and the Comprehensive Social Security Framework, which would strengthen protections for the elderly and prevent unfair grant suspensions.
MK Party MP Visvin Reddy criticized the low grant amount itself, saying it falls far below the real cost of living. “Penalising pensioners for occasional family help is unjust. The real issue is the R125 million lost to ghost beneficiaries,” he said.
Sassa Responds with Justification
Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi defended the agency’s actions, stating that 210,000 beneficiaries had undeclared income flagged through checks with credit bureaus.
According to him, the Social Assistance Act requires full income disclosure, and beneficiaries must report changes to their financial status. He added that grants would only be permanently stopped for those who fail to comply with the review process.
Letsatsi reassured legal recipients, saying the initiative is not meant to harm but to update records and correct errors. “Some may have become ineligible due to improved financial conditions,” he explained.
Les Govender from the National Council of Provinces said affected pensioners should not worry. He confirmed discussions with Sassa officials and stressed that those legally entitled to grants will not lose them.
