CSPRM Prepares for National Elective Congress Amid Legal Battle with the Government

The Community Social Protection and Rights Movement (CSPRM) is intensifying its activities as it prepares for its much-anticipated National Elective Congress, scheduled to take place in Klerksdorp from 21 to 23 November 2024. This event marks a crucial moment for the organization as it seeks to consolidate its leadership and strengthen its position on national issues.

Recent provincial conferences in Gauteng and the Northwest have set the stage for the upcoming Congress. These conferences saw active participation from regional leaders, reflecting the growing reach of CSPRM. National Chairperson Stephen Sass emphasized the importance of the Congress, noting that it will help define the movement’s future direction.

In preparation for the Congress, two major meetings are lined up in October. The first is a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on 17 October 2024, followed by an IMBIZO in Durban on 24 October 2024. Both meetings are expected to focus on the movement’s legal battle with the government as CSPRM continues its fight to recover the 13 trillion rand owed to beneficiaries.

Sass highlighted the critical importance of this legal challenge, saying, "Preparations for litigation are alive, and the battle with authorities is ongoing. We will need all the support we can get to ensure justice for our members." The movement is working closely with Mabuza Attorneys, a key legal partner, to press the case forward.

This follows the recent success of CSPRM in Mbekweni, Paarl, where the community launched a new branch as part of the Boland region. The establishment of the Mbekweni branch, led by a dedicated executive committee, has brought local issues to the forefront, particularly the challenges faced by retired teachers, who have shown overwhelming support for the movement.

As CSPRM grows in both local and national prominence, its leaders are determined to maintain pressure on the government and secure long-overdue payments for beneficiaries. With an expanding network and strong leadership, the movement is poised to make significant strides in the coming months.