The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have accused the African National Congress (ANC) of procedural misconduct during the adoption of the fiscal framework, claiming the ruling party manipulated the process to advance its budget plans without proper scrutiny.
EFF MP Omphile Maotwe led the criticism, stating that the ANC exploited parliamentary technicalities to limit debate and block amendments to the fiscal framework. The EFF contends that this approach weakens democratic processes and suppresses opposition input in crucial budget discussions.
The party’s deputy president further accused the ANC of ignoring alternative proposals that could have tackled pressing economic challenges, including unemployment, inequality, and public sector funding gaps. “The ANC is intent on enforcing its neoliberal economic policies without regard for the needs of ordinary South Africans,” he said.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Tambo claimed that ActionSA and other opposition parties may have been misled into believing they could revisit and amend the fiscal framework within 30 days. He argued that the ANC’s tactics effectively closed off any real chance for revisions.
“The ruling party has once again abused parliamentary procedures to cement its fiscal policies, overriding legitimate demands for reform,” Tambo added.
The fiscal framework, which outlines the government’s revenue and expenditure plans, is a key component of the national budget process. Opposition parties had sought to challenge elements of the framework, such as potential VAT hikes and spending allocations, but the ANC’s rapid adoption of the plan left little opportunity for further discussion.
As tensions rise over South Africa’s economic policies, the EFF has pledged to keep resisting what it describes as ANC-driven austerity measures while advocating for a more radical economic transformation agenda.