GNU will be judged on its ability grow the economy - Sarupen
New deputy finance minister, Ashor Sarupen, said that the Government of National Unity (GNU) would be judged on its ability to grow the economy.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr Ashor Sarupen. Picture: @Treasury_RSA/X
CAPE TOWN - New deputy finance minister, Ashor Sarupen, said that the Government of National Unity (GNU) would be judged on its ability to grow the economy.
But he appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa not to bail out struggling state-owned enterprises.
During debate on Ramaphosa’s Opening of Parliament Address on Friday afternoon, Sarupen lauded his announcement to expand the number of tax-free food items.
It followed months of lobbying from the Democratic Alliance (DA).
"We fully endorse the proposal to expand the zero-rated VAT basket and a comprehensive review of administered prices. Administered prices have been a significant driver of inflation and market-related prices have actually had much lower levels of inflation."
After the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)'s Vuyani Pambo poked fun at Sarupen's height, he hit back on the same nerve his colleagues have used against the red berets all week.
"I suppose now that I'm at the Treasury, anyone involved in VBS is going to get a bit hot under the collar. But regardless, I will keep a close eye on those matters, Mr President. We will look into VBS. I commit."