Godongwana's 2025 budget finally approved after lengthy delay

MINISTER of Finance Enoch Godongwana's 2025 National Budget has finally been approved following the adoption of the fiscal framework that is the backbone of the budget.

- KAMOGELO MOICHELA and NICOLA MAWSON

This was Godongwana's third attempt to get the National Budget passed after an outcry over two proposals to increase VAT earlier this year.

During a joint meeting with the Standing Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Finance, Members of Parliament adopted the document that establishes economic policy and revenue projections and sets the overall limits for government spending.

The process, which took three hours yesterday, was not without its issues, with some members arguing that the process was flawed and that not everyone was able to make their voice heard. Insults also flew, with one member saying that her peers should "learn to read".

However, despite these issues, the Budget was passed.