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SASSA defends communication tender after allegations about CEO

Published

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) said allegations involving CEO Themba Matlou should go through proper channels. It said the tender is part of efforts to teach the public about the move from the SASSA Gold Card to Postbank or other banks.

SASSA responded to media reports about Matlou. Those reports claim he hosted media briefings to discourage journalists from publishing negative reports about him, going back to December 2024.

The agency said the allegations about the communications and stakeholder engagement tender overlook its wider institutional and marketing strategy. It said the tender will help beneficiaries understand their rights, obligations and access to social assistance.

SASSA said the move from the Gold Card created a communication challenge, because beneficiaries were not well informed about the change. It said it must step up public education when changes affect beneficiaries.

Key facts

Who
Themba Matlou (CEO of SASSA); South African Social Security Agency (agency that responded to the allegations)
What
The South African Social Security Agency responded to media reports about allegations involving its CEO, Themba Matlou, saying they should be reported through proper channels. The agency said the tender in question was part of efforts to intensify public education on the migration from the SASSA Gold Card to Postbank or other banks.
When
25 October 2026
Where
South Africa
Status
Reported

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