DA says unannounced visits to WC SASSA offices raised concerns over staffing, online systems, infrastructure
The DA's Wendy Kaizer-Philander said that SASSA officials had been invited to appear before the Western Cape Standing Committee of Social Development next week to address these concerns.
A South African Social Security Agency office in Pretoria. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN - The Democratic Alliance (DA) says several unannounced visits to South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offices in the Western Cape have exposed a pattern of inefficiencies and failures that continue to deny beneficiaries their right to social security.
Issues include chronic staff shortages, technical issues with SASSA's online systems and inadequate infrastructure, including a lack of ablution facilities and shelter.
The DA's Wendy Kaizer-Philander said that SASSA officials had been invited to appear before the Western Cape Standing Committee of Social Development next week to address these concerns.
"Vulnerable individuals, many of whom are elderly, disabled, or facing dire financial hardship, are being subjected to indignity and unnecessary suffering due to years of mismanagement and neglect by the National Department of Social Development. We cannot ignore the desperation and harm caused by SASSA's failures. It is imperative that these issues are urgently addressed."