Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has reiterated his party’s dedication to South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU), despite recent tensions with the African National Congress (ANC) over the 2025 budget. The DA opposed the proposed 0.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) increase, leading to a strain in relations between the coalition partners.
ANC Parliament Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli stated that the DA’s demands extended beyond budgetary concerns, including calls for the closure of the National Youth Development Agency, reductions in government spending, and expanded responsibilities for the Deputy Finance Minister, a position held by a DA member. These demands prompted the ANC to seek support from other parties, both within and outside the GNU, to secure the budget’s passage.
On Wednesday, the National Assembly approved the 2025 budget with 194 votes in favor and 182 against. Steenhuisen is currently in KwaZulu-Natal, campaigning ahead of a by-election in Phoenix, north of Durban.
