Zuma’s Daughter Lashes Out at ANC’s Mbalula Over VAT Hike Speculation

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma and a prominent MK Party figure, has launched a scathing attack on ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, calling him a “fool” amid growing speculation about a potential VAT increase.

In a fiery social media post, Zuma-Sambudla condemned the ANC leadership for allegedly “failing ordinary South Africans” while considering tax hikes to address the country’s economic crisis. Her outburst comes as National Treasury weighs raising VAT from its current 15%—a move critics warn would disproportionately hurt the poor.

“This government would rather squeeze the poor than cut its own wasteful spending,” Zuma-Sambudla wrote, accusing Mbalula and the ANC of pushing policies that “crush struggling families while protecting the elite.”

The comments escalate tensions between the ANC and the MK Party, which has positioned itself as a radical alternative ahead of 2026 local elections. As a key MK Party social media strategist, Zuma-Sambudla’s broadsides are seen as part of a broader campaign to undermine ANC economic policies.

Mbalula, known for his combative style, has yet to respond but previously dismissed her critiques as “coordinated ANC-bashing” by Zuma allies. The VAT debate has divided South Africa, with unions and opposition parties warning higher consumption taxes could deepen inequality.

Economists argue Treasury faces tough choices amid sluggish growth and rising debt. “You either cut services or raise revenue—both are politically toxic,” said analyst Thabi Leoka. The budget speech is expected to clarify government’s plans, but the ANC risks fresh backlash if it opts for VAT hikes.

For Zuma-Sambudla and the MK Party, the controversy offers another opportunity to rally anti-ANC sentiment. “They’ve lost touch with the people,” she declared—a message likely to resonate with voters battered by high living costs. As the fiscal policy battle heats up, so too does the political warfare between South Africa’s rival factions.