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Outrage as Ministers Get Green Light to Splurge R1.1 Million on Luxury Cars While Nation Goes Hungry

Sirisha Pillay
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Outrage as Ministers Get Green Light to Splurge R1.1 Million on Luxury Cars While Nation Goes Hungry

Government ministers, deputies, premiers, and MECs will now be allowed to spend up to R1.1 million on official luxury vehicles. This follows a new directive from Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and the National Treasury, raising the limit from the previous R800,000 cap.

The revised threshold was outlined in an instruction signed by Treasury director-general Dr. Duncan Pieterse, dated July 11 and implemented earlier this week. The amount includes VAT, maintenance plans, and security upgrades.

This change comes at a time when economic pressures are weighing heavily on ordinary citizens, sparking criticism from several quarters, especially opposition parties.

The previous limit of R800,000 was introduced by former finance minister Tito Mboweni as part of broader cost-containment measures. That cap itself had replaced a R700,000 ceiling set in earlier years.

Dr. Pieterse stated that the finance minister is required to consult with the ministers of police, transport, and state security to determine the price ceiling for executive vehicle purchases on an annual basis.

In the instruction, Pieterse confirmed that “The minister has adjusted the price limit for official vehicles from R800,000 to R1.1 million inclusive of VAT, maintenance plans and security upgrades with effect from the date of this instruction.”

No Room for Creative Spending Loopholes

The Treasury made it clear that the new R1.1 million limit cannot be exceeded under any circumstances. Executive members are forbidden from making personal contributions or negotiating trade-ins that allow them to technically stay within the limit while acquiring a more expensive car.

Departments are also warned against bypassing the rules by leasing higher-value vehicles through services like Fleet Management Trading Entities or similar channels.

Temporary vehicle hire will only be allowed if departments cannot procure an appropriate make and model, and only under strict conditions laid out in the guide for members of the executive.

Departments must report all vehicle purchases in their annual financial statements.

Not the First Time the Cap Has Been Raised

This increase follows a previous exception granted to the Eastern Cape government in September last year. Treasury allowed the province to purchase an official vehicle worth R900,000, excluding security features capped at R100,000. Departments were instructed to work with SAPS for the installation of those upgrades.

Opposition Slams the Increase as Elitist and Immoral

ActionSA MP Alan Beesley was among the first to condemn the Treasury’s move, calling it completely unjustifiable in the current economic climate.

“With close to 50% of households going to bed hungry tonight, the luxury lifestyle of the executive is morally incomprehensible. Under the GNU, we have a bloated cabinet whose perks continue to increase,” he said.

Beesley continued, “How can the Cabinet tell hard-pressed South Africans to tighten their belts when their own belts are getting considerably looser? It is wrong on so many levels.”

He added that corruption does not always look like bribery or theft, but often takes the form of systemic abuse of public resources. ActionSA has introduced the Enhanced Cut Cabinet Perks Bill to amend the law governing executive compensation. The aim is to ensure that such decisions reflect the country’s economic reality.

Maimane: The GNU Has Become a Patronage Machine

Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane, who chairs Parliament’s standing committee on appropriations, echoed similar sentiments.

According to Maimane, “The GNU is not working for the people but serving politicians. Compounding the issue is a bloated executive, VIP protection, and a R3 billion expenditure. The priority is clearly not on education or economic growth.”

BOSA is now calling for a drastic overhaul. Their proposal includes reducing the number of ministries, cutting perks, and eliminating wasteful VIP expenses. They also want to see underperforming departments merged or disbanded.

“We will continue to fight against such excesses and will ensure that National Treasury is held accountable for these decisions,” Maimane said.

Women Flood SAPS With Applications in Historic Recruitment Wave as Over 1 Million Eye Police Careers

Hlengiwe Mbedzi
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Women Flood SAPS With Applications in Historic Recruitment Wave as Over 1 Million Eye Police Careers

In an unprecedented show of public interest, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has received more than one million applications for its 2025/2026 Basic Police Development Learning Programme. For the first time, women are leading the surge in numbers.

The police service confirmed that a staggering 1,049,998 applications were submitted before the midnight deadline on July 18. This record-breaking figure signals a powerful wave of interest from young South Africans who are eager to serve and protect their communities.

What stands out even more is the gender shift. Women submitted 595,049 applications, surpassing the 454,949 applications submitted by men. SAPS has described this as a promising step toward greater diversity and inclusion within the force.

“This positive development speaks volumes about the evolving face of our police service,” said a SAPS spokesperson.

Gauteng Leads in Numbers While Northern Cape Trails

When it comes to provincial distribution, Gauteng generated the highest number of applications at 267,031. KwaZulu-Natal followed closely with 205,802, and Limpopo recorded 115,877. Other notable contributions came from the Eastern Cape with 108,709, Mpumalanga with 100,516, and the Western Cape with 86,496. The Free State submitted 73,214, the North West 66,167, and the Northern Cape came in with 26,186.

Applicants Bring Impressive Qualifications

SAPS also noted the academic readiness of applicants. A total of 334,765 individuals hold a qualification at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 6 or higher. This indicates a well-educated applicant pool with strong potential to meet the demands of modern policing.

“This is a strong indicator that applicants are serious about a career in law enforcement and come equipped with the knowledge to back that ambition,” the spokesperson added.

What Happens Next in the Recruitment Process

With the application phase now closed, SAPS confirmed that no further submissions will be accepted through their website. Candidates who meet the recruitment criteria will be contacted within three months regarding the next phase of the process.

Due to the overwhelming number of submissions, only qualifying applicants will receive communication. Those who do not meet the entry requirements will not be contacted.

A New Generation of Officers on the Horizon

This surge in interest, especially the unprecedented response from female candidates, marks a shift in the national attitude toward policing as a career. It reflects both a desire for stable employment and a commitment to public service.

As SAPS begins reviewing the applications, the country now turns its attention to the next generation of officers preparing to step forward in service of justice and safety.

Zuma and MK Party Launch Constitutional Court Bid Against Ramaphosa Over Mchunu Suspension

autologin
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Zuma and MK Party Launch Constitutional Court Bid Against Ramaphosa Over Mchunu Suspension

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma, has approached the Constitutional Court to challenge President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent suspension of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

The legal challenge follows serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed that Mchunu had attempted to meddle in ongoing police investigations. The MK Party argues that the president’s actions are unconstitutional and must be overturned.

During a national address last Sunday, President Ramaphosa announced that Mchunu was being placed on suspension. He also revealed plans to establish a judicial commission of inquiry—chaired by acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga—to examine Mkhwanazi’s accusations. Law professor Firoz Cachalia was named as Mchunu’s temporary replacement, effective from August 1. In the interim, Ramaphosa appointed Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe to serve as acting police minister with immediate effect.

In the court application, filed urgently, the MK Party calls for all three executive actions—the suspension, the interim appointment, and the establishment of the inquiry—to be nullified. The party describes Ramaphosa’s decisions as “irrational” and “invalid,” claiming they breach his constitutional duties and violate his oath of office.

“The president’s decision to establish a judicial commission of inquiry is inconsistent with the obligations under section 83(b) of the Constitution and the presidential oath of office, in conjunction with sections 84(2)(f), 177, 178(4), and 180,” the legal filing states.

Read also: MK Party Prepares for First Birthday Rally as Zuma Set to Address Supporters

The applicants in the case are Zuma and the MK Party, with Ramaphosa, Mchunu, Mantashe, Cachalia, and Madlanga listed as respondents. The MK Party is demanding that the president issue constitutionally sound decisions within 15 days.

According to the filing, the respondents have until 10am on Monday to indicate whether they intend to oppose the application, and until 5pm on Tuesday to file their responses. The MK Party will submit its reply by Thursday, with final legal arguments from all parties due by Friday.

Meanwhile, on Friday, MK Party supporters gathered at the Union Buildings and police headquarters in Pretoria to deliver memorandums demanding Mchunu’s prosecution and calling for protections for Mkhwanazi. Similar demonstrations were held across the country earlier in the week, with the party vowing to continue its protest action in the days ahead.

Social Grant Increases for 2025 and Extension of SRD Grant Until March 2026

Hlengiwe Mbedzi
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Social Grant Increases for 2025 and Extension of SRD Grant Until March 2026

The South African government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable citizens by maintaining the scheduled social grant increases for 2025/26 in the re-tabled Budget 3.0, despite fiscal pressures. According to the National Treasury’s 2025 Budget Overview, the new budget does not reverse or reduce the planned increases, and an additional R1.6 billion has been allocated to bolster the overall social grants programme.

This decision ensures that millions of grant beneficiaries – excluding recipients of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant – will receive their scheduled increases. The total number of beneficiaries is projected to grow to 19.3 million people by March 2028, reflecting the continued expansion of South Africa’s social safety net.

Confirmed 2025/26 Social Grant Increases

The grant increases across various categories will take effect during the new financial year:

  • Old Age Grant: Increases from R2,185 to R2,315
  • War Veterans Grant: Increases from R2,205 to R2,335
  • Disability Grant: Increases from R2,185 to R2,315
  • Foster Care Grant: Increases from R1,180 to R1,250
  • Care Dependency Grant: Increases from R2,185 to R2,315
  • Child Support Grant: Increases from R530 to R560
  • Grant-in-Aid: Increases from R530 to R560

These increases are aimed at helping households cope with the rising cost of living, including food prices, utilities, and healthcare costs. The Treasury notes that the increases are vital to maintaining the purchasing power of grants and ensuring that recipients can meet basic needs.

SRD Grant Extended with R35.2 Billion Allocation

Although the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant—originally introduced as a temporary COVID-19 relief measure—will not see an increase, the government has confirmed its extension until March 31, 2026. The SRD grant remains at R370 per month per beneficiary, and a total of R35.2 billion has been set aside to fund both payouts and administrative operations.

The SRD grant continues to serve as a lifeline to millions of unemployed individuals who do not qualify for other forms of social assistance.

Government Exploring Job-Seeker Support

Delivering the Budget Speech in Parliament, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana emphasized the government’s broader strategy to integrate social assistance with economic participation. He revealed that work is underway to explore a job-seeker allowance and other employment-linked social programmes as part of the review of Active Labour Market Programmes (ALMPs).

“Our goal is to not only provide immediate relief,” said Godongwana. “We also aim to create pathways to employment, empowering our citizens to build better futures for themselves and their families.”

Godongwana added that more targeted efforts will be made to link SRD grant recipients to work opportunities and training programmes, highlighting that social welfare must be seen not only as a safety net but also as a springboard to economic inclusion.

Social Welfare Spending Remains a Priority

Despite tough economic conditions and budgetary constraints, Budget 3.0 reaffirms the state’s continued focus on poverty alleviation and income support. By protecting the 2025 grant increases and extending the SRD grant, the government is prioritising social protection while slowly introducing reforms aimed at linking beneficiaries to economic activity.

Sassa Halts Grants for 210,000 in Major Fraud Crackdown

Sbonelo Shezi
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Sassa Halts Grants for 210,000 in Major Fraud Crackdown

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has suspended payments to over 210,000 social grant beneficiaries as part of a sweeping crackdown on grant fraud and non-disclosure of income.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Sassa revealed that thousands of recipients were flagged during recent credit bureau screenings, which revealed possible undisclosed sources of income. The agency is acting in terms of the Social Assistance Act, which requires all grant applicants to declare their full income and to report any financial changes after approval.

“Failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a violation of the Act and may result in corrective action,” Sassa warned.

No Payment for June

The flagged beneficiaries will not receive grant payments during the June payment cycle, which begins on Tuesday, 3 June. They have been given 30 days to visit their nearest Sassa office to undergo a full grant review.

Read | SASSA Payment Dates for 2025: Full Grant Schedule for All Beneficiaries

“Beneficiaries who fail to comply with this process risk having their grants suspended. Continued non-compliance may lead to the permanent lapsing of their grants,” said the agency.

Sassa has urged all grant recipients to disclose any alternative income sources or undeclared bank accounts. Additionally, those still using green bar-coded ID books are being urged to upgrade to smart ID cards, citing increased fraud risks associated with the outdated format.

New Treasury Conditions in Effect

This crackdown follows new conditions introduced by the National Treasury for improved grant management. These include monthly income checks through bank data and government databases, a move aimed at curbing systemic fraud and misuse of public funds.

Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi confirmed that the agency has already begun implementing these Treasury-mandated checks and will continue to roll them out in phases.

“We are balancing these checks with available resources across our local offices nationwide,” Letsatsi said.

Expanded Cross-Checks and Biometric Measures

According to a recent parliamentary briefing, the new screening measures will apply across all major social grants — not just the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant but also child support, old age, disability, and care dependency grants.

In addition to financial checks, Sassa has introduced biometric verification for grant beneficiaries who do not have standard South African ID numbers. These biometric checks, launched earlier this month, are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.

As Sassa tightens its systems, the agency is encouraging honest disclosure and cooperation from beneficiaries — warning that non-compliance will carry serious consequences, including the permanent loss of grant support.

SASSA Payment Dates for 2025: Full Grant Schedule for All Beneficiaries

Sbonelo Shezi
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SASSA Payment Dates for 2025: Full Grant Schedule for All Beneficiaries

Durban – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially released the SASSA payment dates for 2025, providing millions of beneficiaries with the full grant schedule they need to plan their finances. These social grants are a vital source of income for vulnerable individuals and families across the country, and knowing exactly when grants will be paid is essential for budgeting and avoiding unnecessary delays.

SASSA Payment Dates for June 2025

As part of the monthly rollout, SASSA maintains a staggered approach to social grant disbursements. This helps reduce long queues and ensures safety at pay points and ATMs.

Here are the confirmed SASSA payment dates for June 2025:

  • Older Persons Grant: Monday, 2 June 2025
  • Disability Grant: Thursday, 5 June 2025
  • Children’s Grants: Friday, 6 June 2025

This pattern of disbursing grants over three consecutive days is repeated monthly.

SASSA Payment Dates 2025: Full Monthly Schedule

Below is the complete schedule of SASSA payment dates for 2025, including Older Persons, Disability, and Children’s grants:

MonthOlder Persons GrantDisability GrantChildren’s Grant
January 20253 January6 January7 January
February4 February5 February6 February
March4 March5 March6 March
April3 April4 April5 April
May6 May7 May8 May
June2 June5 June6 June
July2 July3 July4 July
August2 August3 August4 August
September5 September6 September7 September
October2 October3 October4 October
November5 November6 November7 November
December3 December4 December5 December

💡 Tip: Once your grant is paid, the funds remain in your account until withdrawn — there is no need to rush on the first day.

Important Notices for SASSA Beneficiaries in 2025

  1. Gold SASSA Cards Expiring:
    If you are still using a SASSA gold card, you must switch to the Postbank black card by 31 May 2025. After this date, gold cards will be deactivated.
  2. Update Your Details:
    Make sure your banking information and contact details are current to avoid missed payments or delays.
  3. Avoid Crowds:
    SASSA encourages beneficiaries not to overcrowd pay points or ATMs on payment days. Payment funds will remain in your account and can be withdrawn safely at your convenience.

How to Check SASSA Payment Dates and Status Online

Beneficiaries can confirm their SASSA payment dates for 2025 and check grant status using the following tools:

  • Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
  • Use the SASSA SRD R370 grant portal for SRD status and payment checks
  • Call the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 for assistance

Grants Covered in the SASSA 2025 Payment Schedule

  • Older Persons Grant (Old Age Pension)
  • Disability Grant
  • Child Support Grant
  • Care Dependency Grant
  • Foster Child Grant
  • Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 Grant

Why These SASSA Payment Dates Matter

Understanding and following the SASSA payment dates for 2025 helps beneficiaries:

  • Plan monthly expenses
  • Avoid last-minute rushes or ATM congestion
  • Prevent disruptions in daily living needs
  • Remain informed and secure against fraud or expired card issues

Stay Informed, Stay Empowered

The SASSA 2025 payment calendar provides structure, transparency, and peace of mind to those who rely on monthly social grants. With consistent communication, updated details, and smart financial planning, beneficiaries can better navigate the year ahead.

Stay connected with official SASSA platforms for any changes or additional notices. Share this article to help others stay up to date with the latest SASSA payment news in 2025.

Father Appeals for Witnesses in Son’s Tragic Shooting and Collision Incident

Sbonelo Shezi
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Father Appeals for Witnesses in Son’s Tragic Shooting and Collision Incident

Raj Suknandan, the grieving father of 20-year-old Maldon Suknandan from Reservoir Hills, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking answers following his son’s untimely death. Maldon was involved in a fatal incident on Monday, November 18, 2024, that began as a collision and later revealed a darker twist.

Around 09:39 a.m., Maldon’s white Opel Corsa bakkie was reportedly speeding along Inanda Highway in Newlands. The vehicle veered off the road, overturned, and crashed through a fence before coming to rest on Barvale Drive. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, stabilizing the critically injured driver and rushing him to the hospital. Tragically, Maldon was declared deceased upon arrival.Durban Sun rgeg

The initial belief was that the crash caused his death. However, Raj Suknandan received a shocking revelation from the funeral parlour: medical reports indicated his son had died from a gunshot wound to the head.

Raj contacted Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) for assistance and began piecing together the events leading up to the fatal crash. A witness has since come forward, reporting that gunshots were heard near the crash site shortly after the accident.

It is believed that Maldon was traveling from KwaMashu to Clare Estate at the time of the incident. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and his father is urgently appealing for anyone with information to step forward.

(WATCH) MK Party Prepares for First Birthday Rally as Zuma Set to Address Supporters

Hayley Jacobs
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(WATCH) MK Party Prepares for First Birthday Rally as Zuma Set to Address Supporters

Floyd Shivambu, the Secretary-General of the MK Party, has emphasized the significant work still ahead as the party gears up to celebrate its first birthday rally in Durban this December.

The milestone event is expected to showcase the party’s growth and outline its plans for the future.

Speaking to supporters, Shivambu highlighted the importance of the rally, noting that it marks a critical moment for the party to reflect on its achievements over the past year and strategize for the road ahead.

“We have made strides, but there is still much to be done to strengthen our movement and build our presence across the country,” he stated.

Meanwhile, former President Jacob Zuma is set to address supporters in Ekurhuleni today.

Zuma’s anticipated speech is expected to draw significant attention, with many eager to hear his views on the political landscape and his alignment with the MK Party’s goals.

The party has positioned itself as a rising force in South African politics, with a focus on issues such as economic transformation, land reform, and addressing inequality.

The upcoming birthday rally in Durban will serve as a platform for leaders to connect with their base and rally support ahead of next year’s elections.

As preparations for the December event continue, all eyes are on Ekurhuleni today, where Zuma’s address could set the tone for the MK Party’s future engagements.

Durban Gun Shop Owner Denies Charges in Gang-Linked Murder Case

Bongani
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Durban Gun Shop Owner Denies Charges in Gang-Linked Murder Case

Durban gun shop owner Anderson Padayachee has pleaded not guilty to a series of serious charges, including eight counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder, and multiple violations of the Firearms Control Act.

Padayachee’s charges stem from allegations that he sold firearms to the notorious Terrible Josters gang, a group implicated in a string of violent crimes in KwaZulu-Natal.

Padayachee appeared in the Durban High Court, where he maintained his innocence in the face of mounting evidence linking his firearms business to the gang’s criminal activities.

Prosecutors allege that Padayachee knowingly supplied weapons to gang members, which were then used to carry out murders and other violent acts in the province.

Investigators claim that ballistic tests have tied weapons sold by Padayachee to several crime scenes linked to the Terrible Josters gang.

In addition to the murder and attempted murder charges, he is accused of contravening the Firearms Control Act by failing to properly document transactions and selling weapons without conducting mandatory background checks.

During the court proceedings, the defense argued that Padayachee was not aware that his clients were members of a criminal gang, asserting that he followed standard protocols when selling firearms.

Padayachee’s lawyer stated that the charges were based on circumstantial evidence and vowed to challenge the prosecution’s case vigorously.

The Terrible Josters gang has been at the center of escalating violence in Durban, with police linking the group to turf wars, drug trafficking, and multiple homicides.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with many calling for stricter enforcement of firearm regulations to prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands.

The trial is set to continue, with prosecutors expected to present additional evidence, including witness testimonies and forensic reports.

If convicted, Padayachee could face life imprisonment for his alleged role in supplying weapons that fueled gang violence in the region.

KwaZulu-Natal Commuters Stranded as Durban Taxi Strike Enters Day Two

Bongani
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KwaZulu-Natal Commuters Stranded as Durban Taxi Strike Enters Day Two

The ongoing strike by the Durban Long Distance Taxi Association (DLTA) has left hundreds of KwaZulu-Natal commuters stranded for a second consecutive day.

The strike, which began earlier this week, has disrupted critical transportation routes, leaving many residents with no alternative means of travel.

Frustrated commuters voiced their grievances, describing how the taxi strike has upended their daily routines.

Many depend heavily on taxis as their primary mode of transport, and the absence of services has forced some to walk long distances or pay for more expensive transportation options.

“I had to take a day off work because there was no way to get to my workplace,” said one commuter from Durban, highlighting the economic impact the strike is having on employees and employers alike.

According to reports, the strike is linked to unresolved disputes between the DLTA and local authorities regarding permits and operating conditions.

The association claims that its members are being unfairly targeted with fines and restrictions, which they argue threaten their livelihoods.

SABC News reporter Ayanda Mhlongo, covering the story, explained that negotiations between the taxi association and officials are ongoing but have yet to yield a resolution.

Commuters, meanwhile, have called on the government to intervene swiftly to bring the situation under control.

Police presence has been heightened in key areas to monitor any potential unrest, as past strikes have occasionally led to violence or road blockages.

Authorities have urged all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the issues.

The DLTA has not indicated when the strike might end, leaving thousands across the province in limbo.

For now, commuters are left to grapple with uncertainty as they await a resolution to the stalemate.

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