The State Security Agency (SSA) has denied allegations that employees over the age of 50 are being forced into early retirement or face dismissal. Responding to concerns raised by Member of Parliament Dianne Kohler, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni clarified that the SSA is implementing a voluntary severance package as part of the Government Early Retirement Programme, which was introduced in the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement by the Minister of Finance.

“The SSA does not have a directive for compulsory early retirement or dismissal of employees over 50 for operational reasons or retrenchments,” said Ntshavheni. “This initiative aligns with broader government efforts to streamline public service while ensuring that those implicated in wrongdoing are not given a free pass.”

The move also forms part of efforts to professionalize the SSA, in line with recommendations made in the High-Level Review Panel Report. According to the Minister, the initiative is not intended to shield employees implicated in allegations of state capture, corruption, or fraud.

“The SSA continues to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies investigating and prosecuting individuals implicated in criminal activities highlighted in the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture,” Ntshavheni added.

As part of its internal accountability measures, the SSA is finalizing the establishment of an Independent Panel to oversee disciplinary proceedings related to violations of law and regulations. “This panel, formed in response to recommendations from the High-Level Review Panel, is expected to begin its work in April or May 2025,” the Minister confirmed.

The SSA’s response reaffirms the agency’s commitment to upholding integrity and accountability while ensuring that necessary reforms align with broader government policies. The voluntary retirement process will be conducted transparently, ensuring that implicated individuals remain subject to investigations and possible prosecution.