NCOP approves Appropriation Bill, marking a pivotal moment

THE National Council of Provinces (NCOP) yesterday passed the Appropriation Bill, concluding the legislative journey of the 2025/26 budgetary process within Parliament.

- MAYIBONGWE MAGHINA.

The Bill, the first introduced by the Government of National Unity (GNU), received a smooth passage during its consideration earlier in the day.

The MK Party and EFF objected to each department budget, while the Freedom Front Plus abstained on the vote of the Department of Employment and Labour.

A total of 51 delegates to the NCOP voted in favour of the Appropriation Bill, with support from the ANC, DA, IFP, Freedom Front Plus, Patriotic Alliance, and the UDM.

The EFF and MK Party voted against with nine votes.

“Accordingly the Bill is agreed to in terms of Section 75 of the Constitution,” said NCOP chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane.

The Bill will now be sent to President Cyril Ramaphosa for assent and government departments allocated funds will start implementing their approved spending plans.