Sassa Manager Must be Official Suspended: A South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) official caught on video in a heated exchange with grant applicants has been placed on leave pending an investigation. The incident, which occurred at the Dundee local office in KwaZulu-Natal, was recorded by a client who did not receive immediate assistance.
Sassa Manager Must be Official Suspended
In the video, the official is seen shouting at clients, leading to angry reactions from those present. When a client mentioned reporting the official, she dismissively encouraged them to do so, saying she did not care.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development MEC, Mbali Shinga, visited the office on Monday to address the situation and reassure the public that misconduct would not be tolerated.
Key Actions Taken by SASSA
- The official has been placed on leave to ensure an unbiased investigation.
- If the leave expires before the investigation is completed, the official will be temporarily assigned to another office.
- The investigation is expected to conclude within a month.
- A senior management team from the regional office will visit the Dundee office to monitor service delivery.
MEC Mbali Shinga’s Statement on the Incident
MEC Mbali Shinga emphasized that:
“We are here today to understand exactly what happened and to assure the public that we take this matter seriously. We will ensure that the investigation reaches a fair conclusion.”
She also confirmed that officials and clients at the office had been addressed to ensure proper measures were being taken.
Shinga further stated:
“SASSA must uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. We applaud the swift action taken and will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
SASSA’s Response and Apology
SASSA KZN spokesperson Sandy Godlwana stated that disciplinary action would be taken against any employee found guilty of misconduct.
“We regret this incident and extend our apologies for what the clients experienced. SASSA strives to provide dignified, compassionate, and respectful services, in line with our Code of Conduct and Batho Pele Principles.”
SASSA’s regional executive manager, Thamo Mzobe, has ordered an urgent investigation through the Midlands district manager.
Client Support & Complaint Mechanisms
- Clients experiencing challenges at SASSA offices are encouraged to:
- Ask for a supervisor or manager on duty.
- Use suggestion boxes to submit complaints.
- Call the local office to report service issues.
Additionally, wellness programs are available to support SASSA staff who work in challenging environments.
The SASSA Dundee incident highlights ongoing challenges in service delivery at social grant offices. While officials may face difficult working conditions, professional conduct must be maintained. The investigation’s outcome will determine whether disciplinary action is necessary.
SASSA has assured the public that such behavior will not be tolerated and steps will be taken to improve client services.
FAQ’s
Why was the SASSA official placed on leave?
The SASSA official was placed on leave after a video showed them shouting at grant clients, leading to an investigation.
What actions has SASSA taken regarding the incident?
SASSA has launched an investigation, placed the official on leave, and deployed a senior management team to monitor service delivery.
How long will the SASSA investigation take?
The investigation is expected to conclude within a month.
Can grant applicants report issues at SASSA offices?
Yes, applicants can request to speak to a supervisor, use suggestion boxes, or call SASSA offices to report issues.
What is SASSA’s response to the incident?
SASSA has apologized for the incident and emphasized its commitment to providing dignified and respectful services.
