Cape Town – The National Assembly approved the national budget report on Wednesday with 194 votes in favour and 182 against, despite strong opposition.
The fiscal framework, backed by the ANC, ActionSA, and the IFP, faced criticism from the DA, EFF, and MK Party, mainly over the proposed VAT increase and tax bracket adjustments.
Debate centred on the legality of the adoption process and concerns that Treasury ignored expert advice against a VAT hike.
Opposition parties, including the FF Plus and UDM, argued for amendments, while ActionSA defended its support, citing the need for stability.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana justified the VAT increase as necessary for revenue, dismissing shifting opposition stances.
Despite divisions within the Government of National Unity, the budget report was passed, though legal challenges remain possible.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
