Will the Election Affect The SASSA Grant?

Will this 2024 General election affect the SASSA grants? This question has been on the lips of millions of SASSA grant beneficiaries!  This article inquires into the factors that could influence the SASSA grant in light of the election and highlights possible changes that may occur after the election.

Will this 2024 General Election Affect the SASSA Grants? 

Social grants in South African politics have become a pressing issue, with over 28 million citizens benefiting from them. The ruling ANC government allocates an estimated R253 billion annually to these grants, making them a significant part of poverty reduction policies. As the 2024 elections approach, opposition parties, including the EFF and DA stepped into the spotlight,  making promises to retain and even increase these grants.

The President Warns That SASSA Will Likely End 

President Ramaphosa, in a recent ANC event, heightened the stakes by suggesting that  SASSA grants might likely end if the ruling party is not re-elected in 2024. This has brought attention to the ANC’s commitment to these grants, as they currently spend an estimated R253 billion annually, a substantial part of their poverty reduction policies.

The Claim: ANC Corruption Threatens Social Grants

John Steenhuisen, the leader of the DA, called Ramaphosa’s statement “misleading” and an attempt to “divert attention from the ANC’s role in jeopardizing the sustainability of social grants.” He argued that ANC corruption has systematically drained public resources earmarked for social grants, leading to detrimental effects on critical services like education and healthcare. He accused the ANC of using fear-mongering tactics to secure votes.

Also See: South African 2024 General Election Set To Hold on 29 May

How Do All Opposition Parties Address the Social Grants Issue?

Opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), have swiftly responded with pledges for the future of social grants. The EFF, led by Julius Malema, boldly committed to not only retaining but doubling the grants. On the other hand, the DA, while pledging to retain them, emphasizes the constitutional right to social grants and aims to increase the Child Support Grant.

Beyond the prominent parties, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), ActionSA, and Rise Mzansi have also promised to maintain or increase SASSA grants. ActionSA even goes a step further by proposing a Basic Income Grant. However, it’s crucial to approach these promises with a degree of skepticism, as pre-election pledges may not always translate into post-election actions.

What Factors Will Influence The Execution of These Political Promises?

• The Winning Party’s Manifesto:  Examining the manifesto of the elected party will provide concrete insights into their plans for social grants and determine whether they are capable of executing them.
• Economic Conditions: The state of the South African economy will significantly impact the government’s ability to fund expanded social programs.
• Public discourse and pressure: Continued public discussion and advocacy for social support could influence policy decisions.

Moreover, you should know that the feasibility of these promises rests on economic conditions, political will, and the broader socio-economic context. While political parties engage in pre-election dramatics, the execution of promises is a complex process. 

Also See: SASSA Payment Dates for February 2024

The Future of SASSA Grants After Election

The future of SASSA grants carries high stakes due to the substantial number of South Africans dependent on them. With over 28 million beneficiaries, any changes to these grants could significantly impact livelihoods across the country. As the political landscape evolves, the world watches closely, recognizing the future of social grants as a compelling narrative in South African politics.

Regardless of the election outcome, it’s important to note that:

• The SASSA grant is enshrined in the South African Constitution: The right to social security is protected, ensuring its continued existence.
• Regular reviews and adjustments occur: SASSA periodically reviews the program, considering factors like inflation and beneficiary needs. Adjustments are possible outside of an election cycle.

As South Africa stands at the crossroads of political decisions, citizens are urged to critically evaluate the feasibility of promises made regarding social grants. The socio-economic welfare of millions hangs in the balance, making it imperative for citizens to critically evaluate the feasibility of these pledges and hold political leaders accountable for the promises they make on this crucial issue.