Sassa system roll-out off to bumpy start
The new Sassa system roll out got off to a bumpy start on Monday, leaving beneficiaries frustrated.
Many were found in a panic when the South African Social Security announced the new system to be implemented from July.
Sassa said that cash pay points will be gradually reduced, not fully phased out by this time.
However, many beneficiaries were turned away from their usual cash points this morning, even though they had new cards.
Julia Motloung says when she arrived at Payneville Hall this morning, she was told to go to the Springs Post Office.
Also read: Sassa: “SMS is a hoax”
“We got here at 9am and we have still not been served.”
Paulos Motaung (68) says he went to collect his pension at KwaThema Post Office.
“They told us that the money had run out, and we must collect from Springs Post Office.”
He had been standing in the queue since 11am.
“We are disappointed because they said this system would make our lives easier but it is worse,” adds Bessy Ditshego.
She says she went to an ATM to withdraw grants for her two children.
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“I used the old card and the new one but none of them worked.
“It is clear that the Post Office will not be able to do this job, and pay all of us.”
The crowd also feared that the Post Office would soon be closed and many of them will still be standing outside.
“We feel that Sassa has failed us, completely.”
Cecelia Motaung, area manager for the South African Post Office, says their branches have been paying the beneficiaries as they should.
She says they are going from branch to branch to supervise the process, and will only have a comprehensive report at a later stage.
KwaThema Post Office also boasted a long queue after 3pm.
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