Steenhuisen left frustrated with ANC over budget talks, DA cancels briefing
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is already expressing frustration with the African National Congress (ANC), claiming it has refused to sign an agreement on the way forward over the budget.
Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen. Picture: @Our_DA/X
JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) is already expressing frustration with the African National Congress (ANC), claiming it has refused to sign an agreement on the way forward over the budget.
Its leader, John Steenhuisen, posted on X on Tuesday morning that its partner's refusal to finalise an agreement on growth and spending reforms was jeopardising the Government of National Unity, with Steenhuisen's party announcing the postponement of a media briefing that was scheduled for Tuesday morning.
Time is almost up. Last night, the ANC refused to finalise an agreement on growth and spending reforms, imperilling the GNU. The DA will oppose the budget unless and until a written agreement is reached.
— John Steenhuisen MP (@jsteenhuisen) April 1, 2025
Steehuisen also said that his party would oppose the budget unless a written agreement was reached.
The ANC, which is expected to hold its post-national executive committee at 9am, is likely to focus on budget negotiations.
As many have already predicted, getting support for Minister Enoch Godongwana’s budget will be down to the wire.
The DA is already signalling a crisis, with Steenhuisen accusing the ANC of refusing to sign a written agreement on the way forward.
EWN understands that some in the ANC are set on reaching a broad agreement with many other parties.
Meanwhile, ActionSA has been setting down its proposals ahead of Tuesday’s finance committee meeting.
It's understood that the green party and the ANC have been furiously engaging throughout the night.
The DA's media briefing which was set to take place at 8:30am has been postponed, with the ANC's Fikile Mbalula still due to speak at 9am.