The MK Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have declared their opposition to the Appropriation Bill, which was debated in the National Assembly yesterday. The bill, which outlines government spending allocations for national departments, provinces, and municipalities, faced sharp criticism from both parties for allegedly favoring the wealthy over ordinary South Africans.
EFF: “This Budget Neglects the People”
EFF Member of Parliament Omphile Maotwe stated that her party outright rejects the bill, arguing that it ignores the struggles of impoverished communities. “We have participated in all mini-budget debates and proposed practical amendments to ensure a people’s budget,” Maotwe said. She highlighted frustrations over rising electricity costs, referencing protests in Eureni where residents demanded the reversal of a R126 fixed electricity charge.
“The people from Giyani to Atlantis, from Lusikisiki to Khuma, are suffering, and their voices must be heard,” Maotwe added.
MK Party: “Economy Must Serve the People, Not Profits”
Sanele Gregory Mwali of the MK Party criticized the budget as a continuation of past policy failures. “This budget was not put together by the people,” he said, referencing previous debates on VAT increases. The MK Party opposes what it calls the “orthodox policies” of successive ANC governments, arguing that the economy should prioritize people over profits.
“We refuse to be boxed into the policy paradigm of the so-called Government of National Unity (GNU),” Mwali declared.
Support for the Bill: “No Budget Will Ever Be Perfect”
In contrast, Songezo Zibi of the Rise Mzansi party defended the bill, acknowledging its imperfections but stressing the need for decisive action. “The South African people no longer have the patience for endless debates without decisions,” he said.
Zibi warned against excessive borrowing, given South Africa’s shrinking tax base and high unemployment. He called for stricter spending reviews to prioritize essential programs.
SARS Praised for Revenue Collection
Meanwhile, Soviet Lekganyane commended the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for surpassing a trillion rand in revenue collection, crediting improved border security and collaboration with law enforcement.
Voting Outcome Awaited
The Appropriation Bill was put to a vote yesterday afternoon, with the ANC-led coalition likely to pass it despite opposition from the EFF and MK Party. Critics argue that the bill fails to address inequality, while supporters insist it is a necessary step toward fiscal stability.