The Constitutional Court of South Africa has ordered Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) to repay more than R81 million to the South African Social Security Agency following an invalid contract, bringing renewed focus on accountability in the administration of social grants.
The ruling, handed down on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, marks the latest development in a protracted legal battle over the controversial contract between CPS and SASSA. The court’s decision reinforces the rule of law and underscores the authority of South Africa’s highest court.
According to SASSA, the matter dates back several years and is linked to ongoing legal challenges, including the Black Sash Trust v Minister of Social Development case, which sought to ensure that the distribution of social grants complies with constitutional requirements.
SASSA Chief Executive Officer Themba Matlou welcomed the judgment, describing it as a crucial step towards resolving outstanding issues related to CPS.
“The judgment delivered on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, affirms the rule of law and the supremacy of the apex court in South Africa,” said Matlou.
The agency said it would comply fully with the court’s directives and views the ruling as a significant move towards closing a long-standing chapter surrounding the CPS contract.
SASSA added that the decision aims to address any remaining issues linked to the matter while reinforcing public confidence in the country’s legal and social security systems.
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