Note to Editors: Please note Shontel de Boer, MPL sound bite in English
The DA is both saddened and outraged by the tragic death of 60-year-old Mr Manikum Pillay, who passed away on Friday last week at the Verulam SASSA office while waiting in line to complete his grant application.
Mr Pillay, a father, brother, uncle and friend to many, collapsed and struck his head on the tiled floor while standing in line – as so many senior citizens are forced to do for hours on end. This, without ever getting the chance to receive the social assistance he was there to apply for.
Equally heartbreaking is that a government clinic – just 50 metres away – allegedly refused to assist him. Despite urgent pleas for help, medical staff are believed to have turned them away, instead of calling for emergency services. Mr Pillay died waiting for dignity and compassion from the very system that was meant to serve him.
This is not just a tragedy. It is an indication of how so many senior citizens are treated due to failed government systems.
After decades of hard work, sacrifice and contributing to building our country, many of our elderly are left to suffer in long queues – whether at SASSA offices or at public clinics – often without shade, seating or assistance. This is not how they should be honoured and it is certainly not the dignity they deserve.
Mr Pillay’s death must not be in vain. The DA calls on KZN Social Development MEC, Mbali Shinga and her Health counterpart, MEC Nomagugu Simelane to urgently investigate this shocking incident and ensure accountability at every level. No South African, particularly our vulnerable elderly citizens, should ever be treated like this again.
The DA extends its heartfelt condolences to the Pillay family during this deeply painful time. As a partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), we will conduct an inspection of both the Verulam SASSA office and the nearby clinic to obtain answers. Our senior citizens deserve better. They deserve respect and to live out their final years in dignity – not die in neglect.