[ Home ] [ Speeches & statements ]

22 January 2009

Social Development Minister, Dr Zola Skweyiya, has reacted sharply to reports of the social relief of distress, through food parcels, being used to secure votes for political purposes.

Minister Skweyiya was reacting to suggestions of food parcels being used for political gains in some areas of the Eastern Cape. "Social grants are a government responsibility. No political party should distribute forms or engage in any work linked to the distribution of grants or any work of the Department of Social Development and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). We will take action against anyone involved in any activity that violates the Social Assistance legislation or who acts in any manner that may perpetuate fraud and corruption in the social grants system.

"We urge members of the public to call our toll free line 0800 10 11 for information or visit the nearest offices of South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) or the Department of Social Development," Minister Skweyiya said.

The Minister has urged all people including political parties and the media to refrain from insinuating that the roll-out of this programme seeks to achieve political means. He reminded everyone especially political parties that when the additional R500 million was requested from the National Treasury, all political parties during parliamentary discussions agreed this expenditure was an 'absolute necessity' and would go a long way in assisting the poorest of the poor.

"I urge SASSA staff to remain vigilant and report any fraudulent looking applications to law enforcement agencies without delay," Minister Skweyiya added.

For enquiries contact:
Mr Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148

Issued by: Department of Social Development
20 January 2009
Source: Department of Social Development (http://www.dsd.gov.za)