DA again appeals to ANC to focus on budget that creates jobs, grows economy rather than tax hikes
DA finance spokesperson, Dr Mark Burke sponsored Friday’s debate where parties discussed the urgent need for the government to grow the economy and create jobs, spend more efficiently instead of targeting taxpayers.
Democratic Alliance (DA) flag. Picture: X/@DA_Gauteng
CAPE TOWN - The Democratic Alliance (DA) has again appealed to the African National Congress (ANC) to focus on a budget that creates jobs and grows the economy as an alternative to tax increases.
The party's finance spokesperson, Dr Mark Burke, told the National Assembly on Friday that millions of South Africans can’t afford basic nutrition and a VAT increase would be to their detriment.
Burke sponsored Friday’s debate where parties discussed the urgent need for the government to grow the economy and create jobs and spend more efficiently instead of targeting taxpayers.
With the Budget Speech slowly approaching following its postponement in February, parties continue to put forward suggestions on what Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana should focus on.
Burke said that even the most basic things have become unaffordable and a tax increase would make matters worse.
"And why is the ANC minister of finance still contemplating making that burger, that coffee, and tea and baby powder and electricity more expensive with a VAT increase? How does that achieve economic freedom?"
ANC MP, Nonceba Gcaleka-Mazibuko, was more sold on the idea of a tax increase, saying taxation had proven to be a good instrument to raise funds.
"History is the best teacher and the history of governments globally and in our country demonstrates the importance of taxation as an instrument to fund the budget of government and meet policy objectives."
Deputy Finance Minister Ashor Sarupen said that South Africa did not lack potential and had all the natural resources it needs to thrive, but this was not enough and trade-offs must be made.