Malema proposes raising social grants to at least R4 500 ahead of local elections

Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has proposed raising social grants to a minimum of R4,500 in preparation for the upcoming local government elections on November 4. Speaking at the EFF's provincial manifesto launch in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, Malema urged the government to create jobs or allowances for unemployed young people.

He stated that the EFF would not take away existing SASSA grants if it gained power, but instead would increase them, emphasizing that these grants were rightfully earned through taxes paid by workers. Malema highlighted the crucial role of grandmothers in supporting families and caring for children, advocating for increased funding for pensioners.

He argued that there is sufficient public money to provide better support, but claimed that funds were being misappropriated. The EFF has consistently pushed for higher social grants, particularly for those struggling to make ends meet. Malema also criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa over the Phala Phala scandal, alleging that government funds were not being properly accounted for.

The controversy involves the theft of about US$580,000 from Ramaphosa's game farm in Limpopo in 2020, with Ramaphosa denying any wrongdoing. The EFF's proposals on grants and youth employment will be key points in the party's campaign ahead of the local government elections.