ActionSA has exposed a troubling development through a recent parliamentary reply, revealing that the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) Deputy Minister of Finance, Ashor Sarupen, was heavily involved in the drafting of the original budget speech on February 19, which included the controversial 2% VAT increase. This revelation contradicts earlier denials from the DA regarding their involvement.
In recent weeks, the DA has attempted to shift the blame for the VAT hike, using it as a political tool to improve their public image and gain leverage within the Government of National Unity (GNU). However, ActionSA argues that these actions were less about protecting the public and more about internal power struggles within the GNU. The DA, according to ActionSA, prioritized political maneuvers and Ministerial positions over the financial well-being of struggling South Africans.
ActionSA asserts that the DA’s opposition to the VAT increase was not motivated by genuine concern over the tax hike but rather by attempts to disrupt the budget process in order to secure political concessions. Despite their public opposition, the DA had knowledge of the VAT increase and even expressed support for it—until their demands for power were rejected.
ActionSA also criticized the DA for undermining the financial stability of the country during this period, noting that the same party had previously endangered the livelihoods of essential workers such as teachers and doctors. The party’s sudden positioning as defenders of the public is seen as a tactical move rather than a sincere effort to address the country’s economic challenges.
Unlike the DA, ActionSA claims to have entered budget negotiations without any hidden agendas or secret deals. The only conditions presented by ActionSA were a firm opposition to both the VAT increase and income tax bracket adjustments. The party also introduced over R100 billion in alternative revenue proposals as part of a framework aimed at shielding ordinary South Africans from the effects of economic mismanagement.
ActionSA’s message is clear: they will continue to fight to scrap the VAT hike, aiming to achieve this by May 1 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Related Topics:
How to Tackle Debt in a Rising Cost-of-Living Environment: Expert Tips
Forex Today: Market Calm Amid Tech Tariff Confusion
Trump’s Tech Tariff Exemption to be Temporary, Says President
