The revelation in media reports over the weekend that an amount of R36 million, earmarked for pension payouts for military veterans, was diverted to purchase furniture for officials is utterly unacceptable and deeply concerning.
This demonstrates gross mismanagement of funds and a disregard for the well-being of those who have served our nation with honour and sacrifice. The Department of Military Veterans’ decision to prioritise furniture over the rightful entitlements of our veterans reveals the utter disregard for these men and women by the ANC government.
Furthermore, the National Treasury approved this reallocation, despite the department’s announcement last month that a process was underway to launch pension payouts to veterans, it raises serious questions about financial oversight and accountability. It is disheartening to witness such a blatant disregard for the needs and rights of our military veterans.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has consistently championed the cause of military veterans and fought to ensure their fair treatment. We successfully blocked the flawed pension regulations gazetted in December 2022, which have undoubtedly contributed to the delays in pension payments. We will not waver in our commitment to hold the government accountable and to advocate for the timely and equitable disbursement of pension benefits to all military veterans.
The DA calls on Minister Thandi Modise to come clean on the alleged diversion of funds and confirm when the payouts to military veterans will be implemented.
We will continue to demand transparency, proper financial management, and the inclusion of Statutory Forces in the regulations for pension benefits. Our unwavering dedication to serving those who have served our country remains resolute, and we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for our esteemed military veterans.
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