SASSA faces criticism for suspending old age grants.
Facing tough questions in Parliament, Social Development Minister Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe stood firm, saying Sassa is legally required to review grants when there's reason to believe a beneficiary's financial situation has changed.
"In terms of the Social Assistance Regulations, Section 30 (2) (a), Sassa is compelled to act on information where it suspects that a change in circumstance has occurred," Tolashe told members of Parliament (MPs).
Her comments came in response to MK party MP Zelna Saira Abader, who challenged the fairness of suspending grants over what she described as "minimal additional income".
But Tolashe pushed back against the criticism. "Suspensions are not based solely on minimal or irregular additional income," she said, stressing that every case is reviewed individually.
Beneficiaries, she said, are given a chance to explain all income sources before any decision is made. The minister outlined the strict conditions under which grants may be suspended.
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"A grant is not suspended unless there's evidence of fraud, the client no longer meets the eligibility criteria and or there's non-compliance with the Social Assistance Act or its Regulations," said Tolashe.
She also addressed a common misconception, that turning 60 automatically qualifies someone for an old-age grant.
"Not everyone automatically qualifies for an older person's grant upon turning 60 years," she said, explaining that each application is carefully assessed against legal criteria.
Tolashe emphasised that the grant system is built on trust and responsibility, both from the state and from beneficiaries.
"Reviews are never intended to cause harm nor deprive grant beneficiaries of the grant, but rather to uphold the integrity and fairness of the social assistance system," she said.
Despite the public outcry, Sassa is standing its ground, arguing that ongoing reviews are essential to ensure only eligible recipients receive support.
"Sassa has the right and responsibility to conduct reviews at any time, especially when changes in a beneficiary's situation come to light," added Tolashe.
