Urgent Review of Unaffordable Vodacom Contract for Elderly Customer

I am writing on behalf of my aunt, Le Tshela Rathotse (Vodacom Account Number: I***), who is 74 years old and lives alone. Earlier this year, Vodacom offered her a contract requiring a monthly payment of R1300. She survives solely on a government grant and has no additional income. I am deeply concerned that Vodacom approved this contract without conducting a proper affordability assessment.

On 7 October, Vodacom attempted to debit R1981.07 from her account. My aunt had left R1500 in her account, expecting the usual R1300 debit. The transaction failed due to insufficient funds. Upon reviewing her bank statement, I discovered that Vodacom’s debit amounts have been fluctuating significantly. In July and August, the debits were R2274.01 and R2694.04 respectively. These amounts are far beyond her financial capacity.

This situation is not just financially unsustainable—it is heartbreaking. When I visited her recently, she had no food in the house because she had reserved R1500 for Vodacom’s debit. She is now constantly in arrears, with no means to catch up. I would have assisted her financially, but I am over-indebted myself.

My concern is that the sales representative failed to conduct a thorough vetting process. Had they done so, it would have been clear that my aunt does not qualify for such a high-value contract. I am requesting Vodacom to urgently review this matter and offer a more compassionate solution.

Proposed Solutions: - Restructure the contract over a longer term to reduce monthly payments to R600 or less. - Alternatively, cancel the contract to prevent further financial harm and potential blacklisting.

Please advise on the best possible resolution. My aunt deserves dignity and financial protection, not distress caused by unaffordable obligations.

Thank you for your attention.