SASSA Social Grant payments have become a big topic as the South African general election 2024 coming, sparking debates across the political spectrum. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s party, the African National Congress (ANC), has hinted that the social grant system could be at risk if they don’t get re-elected.
This has caused people and political experts to worry and speculate, with many wondering what might happen to the country’s social grants programs if there’s a change in government.
While funding for SRD R350 and other grants has been extended for another year, the situation may depend on which party wins. We’ve tried to give a detailed look at the state of social welfare in South Africa right now, considering the positions of the major political parties and any possible outcomes of the election.
Political Tactics and SASSA Social Grants
President Ramaphosa’s remark earlier this year stirred up a lot of controversy as it hinted at the possibility of stopping social grants after the election. Then, during the COVID-19 outbreak, the African National Congress (ANC) decided to increase Social Relief of Distress (SRD) funds from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) for the first time in four years. Many saw this move as an attempt to gain support from voters.
Different Political Parties View on SASSA Payment
Different Political parties have their perspectives on this matter.
- The Democratic Alliance (DA) is looking into ways to make a Basic Income Grant (BIG) financially viable and supports the idea.
- The Freedom Front Plus, while not against the BIG, suggests a voucher system for job seekers to promote employment rather than dependency on aid.
- ActionSA proposes regular cash transfers as a direct solution to poverty and advocates for a Universal Basic Income Stimulus (UBIS).
- RISE Mzansi opposes the Basic Income Grant and prefers broader social assistance, including food vouchers and support for single mothers, the unemployed and the underprivileged.
The Possible Effects of Political Scenarios
The 2024 general election in South Africa faces big challenges, like political disagreements, economic issues, and social problems. Experts think different things might happen after the election, like forming a government with different parties working together or one party, the ANC, winning big.
Depending on what happens, social grants (money given by the government to help people in need) and how South Africa is doing economically and socially could change. If there’s a coalition government, the rules about social grants might change, and it’s possible that some grants, like SASSA Grants, might stop.
But if the ANC wins by a lot, things might stay the same or change differently. It all depends on what the ANC decides to do after the election.