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19 February 2025
Press Statement from Al Jama-ah on the Postponement of the 2025 Budget and MTEF Address by Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana
Al Jama-ah acknowledges the necessity for the postponement of the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana’s address on the 2025 Budget and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). We understand that the leaders of the Government of National Unity (GNU) could not reach consensus on several critical issues within the proposed budget for the coming financial year.
While we support this delay, we believe it provides an important opportunity for further engagement between the government and key stakeholders. It is crucial that all parties involved work together to ensure that the final budget is one that will bring meaningful benefits to the people of South Africa, particularly the most vulnerable, including the poor and downtrodden.
Al Jama-ah emphasizes that the people of South Africa need a budget that prioritises their immediate needs and future well-being. The fiscal realities of our nation demand that we adopt a budget that fosters economic recovery, creates sustainable jobs, and alleviates the harsh conditions faced by marginalised communities. This includes investing in healthcare, education, and housing, which are essential to improving the quality of life for South Africans.
We recognize that the Minister of Finance faces the difficult task of balancing the unlimited needs and wants of our society with the limited resources at his disposal. In this regard, Al Jama-ah supports the view that more needs to be done in terms of social development, ensuring that the most vulnerable sectors are adequately supported. It is imperative that any fiscal decisions made take into account the urgent need to reduce the inequality that persists in South Africa.
Al Jama-ah is also of the opinion that more can be done to alleviate the rising cost of living. We are concerned about the practices of capitalist organisations that impose markups in excess of 40%, further burdening South African families. Al Jama-ah calls for more stringent regulations to address these exploitative practices, as well as the implementation of a fairer tax system.
In line with our commitment to supporting the people of South Africa, Al Jama-ah believes that VAT should be reduced, and instead, a turnover tax should be implemented on businesses that meet a certain threshold. This will ensure that larger businesses contribute proportionally to the economy while relieving the financial pressure on ordinary citizens.
We also caution our fellow members of the GNU to engage with urgency and speed on these matters. The delay, while necessary for ensuring thorough deliberation, must not extend for too long. The citizens of South Africa are looking for leadership that delivers real solutions to their struggles, and we must work swiftly to pass a budget that reflects the true aspirations of the people.
Al Jama-ah reiterates its commitment to advocating for policies that support economic growth that benefits all South Africans, especially those who have been historically disadvantaged. We call for a budget that addresses the disparities in income, healthcare, and social services while ensuring that government expenditure is directed toward the upliftment of the poor and marginalized sectors of our society.
We trust that the necessary dialogue will take place in a spirit of unity and collaboration, keeping the needs of the people at the forefront of all decisions. Al Jama-ah will continue to monitor the situation closely and contribute to discussions that will result in a budget that truly benefits all South Africans.
Ends.
Issued by: Asghar Khan (
Spokesperson) on behalf of Al Jama-ah
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