Minister Fritz disappointed at little remorse shown by SASSA 5

The Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Adv. Albert Fritz, is disappointed at the seemingly scant regard shown by the five convicted former SASSA employees for the seriousness of their crime, during their sentencing trial.

This comes after the five, dubbed the “SASSA 5”, appeared in the Bellville Commercial Crimes Court today (24 November 2015) for the beginning of sentencing procedures, after they were found guilty of social grant fraud earlier this month.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is a national entity run by the National Department of Social Development. As a provincial department we play an oversight role, in protection of the poor.

During today’s sentencing procedure the SASSA 5 were asked by the prosecutor whether they had any remorse for their crimes. Each expressed regret at having been found guilty but not for actually committing the crime, in spite of the guilty verdict. They seemingly have not taken responsibility for their actions.

This is unacceptable and speaks to the culture of disdain and entitlement some SASSA officials are accused of by poor residents of the province.

The Western Cape Department of Social Development continues to call on SASSA to clean up its act. With the case having been postponed to the 9 December 2015, we will continue to monitor this case until the Judge passes down sentence.