Political parties call for urgent reform amid online gambling crisis

THE gambling crisis in the country has drawn the attention of political parties and legislators, who are calling for stronger regulation, improved protections for vulnerable groups, and accountability from the gambling industry.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI [e-mail]

With the sharp rise in online gambling, particularly among low-income communities, parties such as Rise Mzansi and the DA are urging swift legislative action.

Makashule Gana of Rise Mzansi described the situation as dire, warning that many South Africans, especially social grant recipients, are gambling away essential income.

"It is a huge concern to us that many people, especially poor people relying on social grants, are gambling at the rate they are. Many people gamble money they should be using to buy essentials," said Gana.

He accused the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) of failing to take the crisis seriously.

"I don't believe the Minister of Trade and Industry is paying enough attention to the gambling crisis."