South African opposition parties, led by the Democratic Alliance (DA), applaud the postponement of the national budget, viewing it as a testament to parliamentary democracy and a rejection of potentially harmful economic policies. The delay, triggered by a proposed VAT increase, highlights the ongoing power dynamics within the Government of National Unity (GNU).
CAPE TOWN - Democratic Alliance (DA) chief whip George Michalakis stated that the postponement of the national budget presentation on Wednesday was a demonstration of democracy in action rather than a sign of a dysfunctional government. Opposition parties criticized the Government of National Unity (GNU) for the unprecedented last-minute withdrawal, asserting their desire to review and debate the budget documents.
Michalakis emphasized, 'What is happening here today is actually showing two factors that should create immense confidence in what’s happening in this country. The first is, Parliament is not a laughing stock, but Parliament is no longer a rubber stamp to bad policies that will cripple our economy.' The budget presentation delay stemmed from a proposal by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to increase the value-added tax (VAT) by two percentage points. The DA and other GNU parties oppose this move, arguing that it will exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis. Michalakis expressed hope that the African National Congress (ANC) would contemplate alternative proposals from his party before a new budget was presented in three weeks. 'You are not alone in the GNU. We have an equal say, and we will continue to fight for every single person in this country, most particularly the poor. We support this postponement.
BUDGET VAT DEMOCRACY SOUTH AFRICA GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS PARLIAMENT
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
2027 ANC Succession Battle Fuels Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Leadership Reconfiguration DebateThe African National Congress (ANC) acknowledges that the 2027 presidential succession battle significantly influenced discussions regarding the reconfiguration of its Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal leadership structures. Secretary General Fikile Mbalula reveals that the upcoming national elective conference dominated the conversations, with members aligning themselves based on their preferred candidates for the presidency.
Read more »
ANC's Budget Delay: A Sign of Power Shift?The postponement of South Africa's budget, due to disagreements within the government of national unity (GNU) over tax increases, has raised concerns about the ANC's waning influence. Experts suggest the delay signals a loss of control for the ANC and highlights the DA's growing power in shaping policy decisions.
Read more »
South African Budget Postponed Amidst Cabinet Debate Over VAT HikeThe 2025 national budget speech in South Africa has been postponed to March 12th due to disagreements within the cabinet regarding a proposed 2% VAT increase. The postponement, announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, comes after discussions revealed concerns from various parties, including ANC ministers, about the potential impact of the VAT hike on the economy and public welfare.
Read more »
South Africa's Budget Postponement Sparks Debate on GNU's EffectivenessThe postponement of South Africa's 2025 Budget speech until March 12th has ignited discussions about the functionality of the Government of National Unity (GNU). A proposed 2% VAT increase became a point of contention between the ANC and other parties, ultimately leading to the unprecedented delay. While some analysts view this as a growing pain of a new era of power-sharing, others express concern about the lack of strategic planning and potential economic implications.
Read more »
Top budget-friendly getaways and experiences in KZN | Valentines On A BudgetDiscover the best budget-friendly romantic getaways in KwaZulu-Natal for Valentine's Day, from nature reserves to luxurious lodges
Read more »
Fikile Mbalula Fuels Speculation on Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s Future, Sparks Humour and Criticism OnlineANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has weighed in on the possibility of the party approaching Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, but his comments divided social media.
Read more »