On Tuesday, 19 May 2026, EPPF joined Radio Sonder Grense (RSG) 102FM’s Geldsake programme, hosted by Ryk van Niekerk, to discuss the Fund’s eligibility declarator assurance process, why it is being conducted, and what it means for members.

During the interview, EPPF Legal Advisor, Ms Lorato Aphiri, explained that the exercise focuses on confirming and regularising the membership records of all individuals belonging to the Fund.  

The Fund strengthened its governance processes following legal proceedings that began in 2017 regarding former Eskom CEO Mr Brian Molefe’s pension payment. That legal matter focused on the Eskom Board‘s decision to approve the former Eskom CEO’s pension payout. It brought to light that Mr Molefe was permitted to become a member of the Fund, even though at that time he was employed on a fixed-term basis by Eskom. In terms of the EPPF Fund Rules, only permanent employees of participating employers are eligible for membership.  

It’s important to bear in mind that the current assurance exercise is part of broader efforts to strengthen governance, ensure regulatory compliance, and protect the long-term integrity of the Fund for all members. 

To date, approximately 42,000 active member records have been reviewed. Now, the Fund is reaching out to those members whose employment records date back several decades.  

The Fund is in possession of all members’ pension fund contributions and benefit information. However, historically, EPPF did not require copies of individual employment contracts from participating employers during the membership onboarding process. These would have indicated that members were employed on a permanent basis. Neither EPPF nor participating employers are legally required to keep employment records for more than a decade, and in some cases, such records no longer exist due to the passage of time.  

This process has since been strengthened, and EPPF now requires and reviews employment contracts to confirm membership eligibility in line with its Fund rules. 

Once the assurance process is completed, EPPF will seek a declaratory order through the court. 

The exercise is about doing the right thing by ensuring that every member’s record aligns with the standard set by the courts. This reflects the priority EPPF places on governance. The process may require additional effort from some of our members, and EPPF is mindful of any inconvenience caused.

In separate court proceedings, EPPF continues to oppose Mr Molefe’s court application for leave to appeal an earlier ruling to refund the benefit paid to him by the Fund. In 2025, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the Fund's appeal. EPPF is considering its next steps in the matter. 

To listen to the interview, click on this link: https://www.moneyweb.co.za/moneyweb-radio/rsg-geldsake/eskom-se-pensioenfonds-wil-seker-maak-al-sy-lede-het-by-eskom-gewerk/