Defective Cellphone

I purchased a cellphone on 13 August. Within a few days, the phone developed a serious fault and displayed a black screen, making it unusable. I returned the device to the store on 17 August, only four days after purchase. - I requested to exchange the defective phone and upgrade to another device, with me paying any price difference. I was informed that an exchange-and-upgrade was not possible. -A staff member later stated that an exchange would have been possible if I had returned the phone within seven days. I clarified that I had in fact returned it within four days, and the staff member acknowledged this and said she would discuss it with management. I have since received conflicting information and would like clarity on: Why I am being denied the option to upgrade by paying the difference. Why I was told I did not return the device within seven days when I did. Why I cannot exchange a defective device that failed shortly after purchase. Which policy or condition prevents an exchange and upgrade in these circumstances.

Under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA): Section 55 gives consumers the right to goods that are of good quality, free from defects, and fit for their intended purpose. Section 56(2) provides that if goods become defective within six months, the consumer may choose a repair, replacement, or refund.

Given that the phone became defective shortly after purchase and was returned promptly, I am requesting a fair resolution, including the option to exchange the device and upgrade to another handset by paying any applicable difference.

Kind regards, Lesego Mohlolo