Delivered Absa Premium Credit Card Not Working

I had my premium credit card delivered on the 21st of June and have been unable to use it for in-store purchases, online transactions and the card cannot be linked to Apple Pay.

The only functionality available to me has been cash withdrawals, which is a significant disadvantage since withdrawals do not qualify for the 57 days interest-free period.

I have called customer service multiple times and was informed that Absa had an issue with premium cards, with feedback from IT expected on the 25th of June. However, when I called back after the 25th, the agent assisting me was unaware of any such issues with premium cards and simply advised me to try using the card again. Despite my attempts, the card continues to be declined for both online and in-store purchases, with online transactions failing due to 3D authentication issues.

I've been shuffled from department to department without any resolution. My most recent call was on Friday, the 28th of June, when the agent noted my card number and promised to escalate the issue via email, advising me to call back on Friday, the 5th of July. This would mark three weeks of not being able to use the card.

I am also concerned about the interest on the amount already used on the credit card, as I had to withdraw cash to handle emergencies that could have been managed with online or in-store purchases. Will my interest charges be waived, leaving me responsible only for the amount owing, excluding interest that would not have accrued if the card had worked correctly for purchases?

I am honestly out of options and hence I am writing this review to express my frustration. There has been no sense of urgency to resolve my issue.

Can someone please assist?