ANC refuses to expel DA over VAT increase opposition

THE ANC's National Working Committee (NWC) has decided to maintain its working relationship with the DA within the Government of National Unity (GNU).

- THABO MAKWAKWA AND MASHUDU SADIKE

This decision comes despite intense opposition related to the recently approved 0.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) hike proposed by the National Treasury.

The decision to raise VAT by 0.5% has ignited considerable backlash, particularly among opposition parties.

The DA has condemned the hike, arguing that it disproportionately burdens low-income individuals and the working class, exacerbating existing economic inequalities.

According to a senior ANC member, who was part of the NWC meeting that discussed what the party's intentions were regarding the DA on Monday, there was a fierce battle between President Cyril Ramaphosa and his deputy, Paul Mashatile, on whether to retain the DA within the GNU or let them go.