The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on the African National Congress (ANC) to publicly declare its chosen coalition partner as it rallies support for the upcoming budget vote.
In an interview with IOL, DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau stressed the need for clarity from the ANC regarding its coalition plans, reaffirming the DA’s commitment to governing in the public interest without unnecessary obstacles.
“The ANC must decide who they want to work with and follow through. If they choose to partner with us, we will remain focused on delivering for South Africans,” Khakhau said.
Reports indicate the ANC has approached parties outside the Government of National Unity (GNU) to secure backing for the budget, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), ActionSA, and, more recently, Build One South Africa (BOSA).
While the EFF and MKP have not formally rejected the ANC’s overtures, both have stated they will oppose any budget that includes a Value Added Tax (VAT) increase.
ActionSA has already refused to support the budget, citing the proposed VAT hike as a key reason. “ActionSA has informed the ANC’s negotiation team that we will not endorse the 2025/26 budget,” the party said in a statement.
Khakhau reiterated the DA’s opposition to raising VAT, stating, “Our stance on the budget has not changed.”
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s recent budget proposal includes a 0.5% VAT increase for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 financial years, culminating in a 1% total rise. While the budget has been tabled, parliamentary discussions and a final vote are still pending, with the date yet to be confirmed.
