Political parties divided on budget 3.0

EFF criticises it as 'unimaginative' and not benefiting the poor, while the DA calls it a step towards ending 'reckless government spending'

- Mandisa Nyathi

Political parties are divided over the revised budget tabled by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, with some labelling it "a hollow response to economic hardship", while others cautiously welcomed it as a necessary fiscal reset.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) led the charge against the third version of the 2025 budget, dismissing it as an "austerity budget" that offers no meaningful relief to poor and working-class South Africans.

Speaking outside parliament after its tabling on Wednesday, EFF leader Julius Malema said the ANC had failed to use the revision of the budget as an opportunity to steer the economy in a more equitable direction.

"The ANC is stuck. They cannot grow the economy," Malema said.

"This is an austerity budget. They failed to increase the list of zero-rated goods.

"We don't accept this budget."

In a statement, the Red Berets said the revised fiscal plan was out of touch with the lived realities of millions of South Africans grappling with rising unemployment, poor public services and stagnant wages.

They criticised the ANC government for ignoring proposals from opposition parties and civil society during the adjustment process.