SASSA’s non-payment of grants increases hardship and difficulty and puts grant recipients in the risky path of loan sharks. Missing payments set families back months, and some do not recover from the vicious cycle of borrowing against their grants.

The South African government could have played a far more constructive role in influencing Hamas to release hostages after the deadly October 7 attack on Israel last year, and even to surrender, to avoid the loss of civilian lives, and to seek to bring about a lasting peace in the Middle East.

Hamas is guilty of committing acts of heinous brutality against women, children, infants and families that can never be excused or ignored.

ACDP MP, Marie Sukers, notes that the Department of Basic Education’s own research indicates that their Scripted Lesson Plans (SLPs), in which they have put so much hope, were ineffective.

The ACDP believes that the only long-term solution to this debt spiral is a rejuvenated economy, premised upon stabile energy provision and a vastly improved logistics network.

The ACDP looks forward to a successful outcome for the class of 2023.

We have signed a Multi-Party Charter, formed by opposition parties that agree that South Africa needs a viable alternative to the ANC government which has ruined this country.

The ACDP has a reputation for being one of the most stable and consistent partners within government structures and coalitions. This is because we have always believed in governance established on the principles of integrity, trust and respect.

The ACDP extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Springboks on their nail-biting 29-28 victory over France in Paris last night. We look forward to another amazing match in the Boks’ semi-final game against England this coming Saturday.

The ACDP welcomes the visit by the MEC for Community Safety and Police Oversight, Mr Reagen Allen, and the Minister of Police, Mr Bheki Cele, in response to our request to intervene and assist the community of Hanover Park who have had to endure constant shootings and gang violence over the last few weeks.