PRESS STATEMENT
1 October 2025
Al Jama-ah Reaffirms Commitment to the Elderly at Sector Parliament Preparatory Commissions
Al Jama-ah in KwaZulu-Natal proudly confirms the participation of Cllr Asghar Khan in the preparatory commissions held ahead of the KZN Provincial Legislature Sector Parliament for Older Persons.
Cllr Khan attended the Commission on Governance, which included key departments such as the Office of the Premier, Community Safety, and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA). His presence was marked by robust engagement and the raising of critical issues affecting older persons across the province.
In his submissions, Cllr Khan highlighted the urgent need to restore the family unit’s role in the care of senior citizens, calling on the Office of the Premier to initiate provincial programs that encourage younger generations to support and care for the elderly. “We must go beyond policy and instill values of compassion and responsibility within our communities,” he said.
Cllr Khan further advocated for the prioritisation of senior citizens in public service queues, particularly in hospitals, clinics, SASSA offices, and Home Affairs. “Our elders must not be subjected to long waiting times – dignity must guide service delivery,” he stated.
A key recommendation presented by Cllr Khan was the creation of a provincial register of senior citizens, mapped to ensure effective and coordinated service delivery. This, he proposed, would enable structured home visits and outreach services, particularly for vulnerable and immobile seniors.
On the issue of local government support, Cllr Khan called for a review of indigent policies across KwaZulu-Natal. He urged CoGTA to move away from the rigid “two-state pension income” threshold and instead adopt a means-tested approach aligned with SASSA standards. Furthermore, he recommended that municipalities implement sliding-scale rates tariffs, allowing for a more fair and inclusive system of municipal support for senior citizens.
Al Jama-ah continues to champion the rights and dignity of older persons and remains steadfast in its advocacy for policies that reflect compassion, justice, and effective governance.
Issued by: Asghar Khan
On behalf of Al Jama-ah
Media Enquiries: Nisa Hendricks
National Communications Officer
082 613 1917