Julius Malema Calls for R4,500 Monthly Pensions as EFF Pushes for Higher Payments

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called on the South African government to increase social grants, proposing that pensioners receive at least R4,500 per month. He has also urged authorities to provide greater financial assistance to young women and schoolchildren to help vulnerable families cope with rising living costs.

According to The Citizen, Malema made the proposals during an EFF rally in KwaZulu-Natal as South Africa prepares for the November 4, 2026, local government elections. Social assistance, unemployment and the rising cost of living remain important issues in the country’s political discussions.

Malema argued that the government could raise funds for social grants by reducing unnecessary expenditure and addressing corruption. He maintained that public resources should prioritise struggling citizens instead of wasteful government spending.

He emphasised that pensioners deserved increased financial support because many use their grants to provide food, pay household bills and support children and other dependent relatives.

The EFF leader also expressed concern about the financial difficulties experienced by young women, arguing that government assistance should help prevent them from becoming financially dependent on older men.

“Government must be your sugar daddy, no man must be your sugar daddy,” Malema said, according to The Citizen.

Additionally, he called for free school uniforms and meals to ensure that children from disadvantaged households can attend school without placing further financial pressure on their families.

Malema proposed reducing the number of deputy ministers and redirecting the savings towards pensioners and impoverished communities.

However, the proposals remain political demands, and no official grant increase has been announced. Questions also remain about funding, eligibility and implementation.

Social grants are administered nationally, meaning the proposed changes would require government action rather than a decision by local municipalities.

https://x.com/NewsdayZA/status/2112818436418019337

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