Durban woman loses life savings of R21 million after partners death

A Durban woman who spent 17 years as a businessman’s life partner has been unsuccessful in her attempt to claim a share of his death benefit amounting to R21.3 million.

The Post reports that Fathima Sayed raised concerns with the Pension Funds Adjudicator, arguing that the Old Mutual Superfund Provident Fund should not have distributed A Singh’s entire death benefit solely to his two biological daughters.

Sayed felt she should have been included as a beneficiary, considering she had already received R7 million from a life policy at Singh’s passing, was left immovable property valued at R1.7 million, and receives a monthly sum of R35,000 according to Singh’s will.

Singh, a member of the fund, passed away on July 24, 2021, leaving behind Sayed, her son, his two biological daughters, four grandchildren, and his ex-spouse.

The total death benefit of R21,308,051 was available for distribution among Singh’s beneficiaries, with the board deciding to allocate 50% to each of his daughters.

Sayed detailed her relationship with Singh, explaining that they had been romantically involved since 2007.

She resigned from her job at a bank to care for him and her minor child at home, with Singh providing financial support equivalent to her previous salary throughout their 17-year partnership.

Singh also helped her pay off her mortgage bond and assisted in selling her property for almost a million rand so they could live together, culminating in a cohabitation agreement between them.


Also Read: KZN gang boss had entire police station on his payroll and controlled station operations