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ActionSA Northern Cape continues to demonstrate the party’s unwavering commitment to social justice and community empowerment. In a recent campaign conducted in Ward 3, Homelite, Kimberley, Louw personally investigated the unfair surcharge being imposed on SASSA grant recipients by certain spaza shops, predominantly foreign-owned, when they withdraw their funds.

It has come to our attention that many SASSA grant recipients, particularly the elderly, have been subjected to illegal surcharges when using their SASSA cards to access their money. This exploitative practice has placed additional financial strain on some of the most vulnerable members of our society, leaving them with less money for essential goods and services.

During his visit to Homelite, Louw engaged directly with affected residents, many of whom expressed their frustration and concern over the unlawful deductions from their grants. ActionSA immediately took action to address the issue, ensuring that the much-needed funds of these recipients were returned in full. This change more accurately reflects the nature of the grants as support for the vulnerable and needy.

We will not tolerate any form of exploitation, especially when it targets the most vulnerable in our communities. ActionSA is here to protect the rights of all South Africans, and we will continue to fight against any injustices that seek to undermine the dignity of our people.

The successful intervention in Homelite is a testament to ActionSA’s proactive approach to addressing issues that matter most to our communities. By standing up for the rights of SASSA grant recipients, ActionSA is not only highlighting the importance of fairness and justice but also building trust and momentum within the Northern Cape.

ActionSA will continue to monitor this situation closely and will work with relevant authorities to ensure that no SASSA grant recipient is subjected to unfair treatment. We call on all residents to report any further incidents of illegal surcharges to our offices so that we can take swift action.

Issued by ActionSA Provincial Chairperson Andrew Louw