Government refutes ‘fake news’ regarding termination of SRD grant
Zuko Komisa
- The Department of Social Development has officially dismissed viral social media reports claiming the SRD grant will soon be terminated.
- Officials condemned the unlawful use of government logos and ministerial images to spread “fake news” and cause public panic.
- Beneficiaries are urged to rely solely on verified information from the DSD and SASSA platforms rather than unverified online sources.
The Department of Social Development (DSD) has moved to quash “malicious” rumours circulating on social media which claim that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is about to be scrapped.
In a formal statement released on Wednesday, the department expressed concern over various videos and graphics currently being shared online. These posts falsely suggest that a decision has been made to end the R370 monthly payment, which provides a vital lifeline to millions of unemployed citizens.
Officials have branded these claims as entirely baseless, confirming that no such directive or announcement has been issued by the government. The DSD highlighted that the unauthorised use of the department’s logo and the Minister’s image to spread misinformation is not only misleading but potentially unlawful.
The public is being urged to ignore these fraudulent posts, which the department says are designed to cause “unnecessary panic and distress” among vulnerable beneficiaries. Citizens are advised to verify all grant-related news through official government channels, including the SASSA website and verified social media accounts.
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