Sassa CEO Faces Questions Over R30 Million Communications Tender

Allegations emerge over spending, media influence and procurement processes at the social grants agency as scrutiny intensifies around senior leadership.

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) is facing renewed scrutiny after allegations surfaced regarding a R30 million communications and stakeholder engagement contract approved under the leadership of chief executive officer Themba Matlou.

According to allegations contained in reports and information provided by sources familiar with the matter, the contract was intended to run over a three-year period from 2025 to 2028. However, it is claimed that almost the entire value of the contract was spent within the first year.

Documents reportedly reviewed by investigators and journalists show payments amounting to approximately R29 million made to an event production company during the initial phase of the contract.

Claims of Media Influence

Sources have alleged that the communications programme was used to strengthen relationships with members of the media and manage public perceptions surrounding Sassa’s leadership.

According to the allegations, media engagement sessions were regularly organised following Matlou’s appointment as acting CEO in late 2024.

The briefings reportedly took place at various venues across South Africa and were aimed at improving communication between Sassa and journalists.

However, critics have questioned whether the engagements created perceptions of undue influence and whether they may have discouraged critical reporting about the agency’s leadership.

No evidence has been publicly presented showing that journalists altered reporting in exchange for participation in such events, and the allegations remain unproven.

Questions Over Procurement Processes

Additional concerns have reportedly been raised regarding procurement governance within Sassa.

Sources claim that Matlou assumed greater authority over the appointment of members to bid evaluation committees, which assess service provider tenders.

Critics argue that concentrated control over procurement structures can create perceptions of conflicts of interest and undermine confidence in the independence of tender evaluation processes.

The allegations also reference concerns regarding previous communications-related tenders and the handling of bid documentation.

To date, no court or official investigative body has made findings confirming wrongdoing relating to these allegations.

Previous Investigations and Controversies

Matlou has previously faced scrutiny over various allegations during his public service career.

Some matters involved accusations relating to political activities and the use of state resources, although previous investigations cleared him of certain allegations.

Others involved findings related to administrative and financial irregularities during periods when he held senior positions within Sassa.

The latest claims have reignited debate about governance, accountability and oversight within one of South Africa’s most important public institutions.

Political Connections Under Spotlight

The controversy has also drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding Matlou’s appointment as Sassa chief executive.

Former Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe appointed Matlou as acting CEO following the suspension of former chief executive Totsie Memela in 2024.

Matlou was later appointed permanently.

Questions have since been raised by critics regarding appointment processes within the broader social development sector, though no formal findings have been announced regarding the allegations currently being made.

No Official Response Yet

According to reports, questions were sent to Sassa officials, including spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi and communications representatives, seeking comment on the allegations.

At the time of publication, no responses had reportedly been received.

As a result, many of the claims remain allegations that have not yet been tested through formal investigations or legal proceedings.

Growing Calls for Transparency

The allegations have intensified calls for stronger oversight and transparency at Sassa, particularly given the agency’s critical role in administering social grants to millions of South Africans.

Governance experts argue that any concerns involving public funds, procurement processes or communications contracts should be fully investigated to maintain public confidence in state institutions.

Whether further investigations will be launched remains unclear, but the controversy is likely to remain in the spotlight as questions continue to emerge about spending, accountability and management practices within the agency.