The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) has strongly condemned the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) for imposing a hefty 13.4% hike in medical aid premiums for 2025. This significant increase will undoubtedly worsen the financial strain on public servants, who are already struggling to make ends meet due to high living costs. Furthermore, POPCRU has criticized GEMS' high administration costs, exceeding R2.4 billion, and the lack of meaningful consultations with key stakeholders. The union is urging the government to intervene and ensure affordable premiums. Elvis Presslin spoke to Richard Mamabolo, POPCRU spokesperson, to discuss this matter further