NCOP approves Appropriation Bill, marking a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 Budget process
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Wednesday passed the Appropriation Bill, concluding the legislative journey of the 2025/26 budgetary process within Parliament.
The Bill, the first introduced by the Government of National Unity (GNU), received a generally smooth passage during its consideration earlier in the day.
The MK Party and EFF objected to each department budget, while the Freedom Front Plus abstained on the vote of the Department of Employment and Labour.
A total of 51 delegates to the NCOP voted in favour of the Appropriation Bill, with support from the ANC, DA, IFP, Freedom Front Plus, Patriotic Alliance, and the UDM.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Next
Stay
Close ✕
The EFF and MK Party voted against with nine votes.
'Accordingly the Bill is agreed to in terms of Section 75 of the Constitution,' said NCOP chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane when she announced the voting results.
The Bill will now be sent to President Cyril Ramaphosa for assent and government departments allocated funds will start implementing their approved spending plans.
ANC MP Cecilia Sylvia Nxumalo said the budget will improve the three priorities of the GNU, support infrastructure development, and allocate funds for the social protection programme.
'We will ensure robust oversight and accountability of allocated funds. We call on all accounting officers to take decisive action against mismanagement of funds and the findings of the Auditor-General should be responded to effectively,' said Nxumalo.
DA MP Denis Ryder said the Budget proposals reflected a compromise position that can take South Africa forward.
'What we have today is a product of strong political and technical engagement and application. What we have today is a Budget that deserves a chance to show South Africa what can be done,' said, Ryder, adding that VAT increases were avoided and they have seen a move against tainted ministers.
He also said that while no budget was perfect, balancing the many needs and desires of people within limited resources meant that there would always be disappointments.
'This is a symptom of a lack of economic growth. If this Budget is to succeed, it needs a strong focus on the little we have on projects that ignite growth and create jobs for ordinary South Africans while cutting wastage and corruption activities.'
Ryder also said it was important that the portfolio committee ensured funds were spent efficiently and the spending reviews were important to do the right thing for the people.
MK Party's Mmabatho Mokoena said her party would not pretend the Budget was for the people.
'In reality, it is a lifeline for your corrupt politicians, failing and bloated departments that can never deliver a simple toilet without a scandal. You call it the appreciation bill. We call it a misappropriation bonanza,' Mokoena said.
'The MP Party objects loudly and proudly because we were not sent here to clap for crumbs. We were sent here to hold the line for the poor, the hungry, and the forgotten.'
EFF MP Mathapelo Siwisa said they could not agree to an austerity Budget.
Siwisa said they made proposals on all departments to express the frustrations and desperation of the people.
'We don't object to the departments' budgets. When we stand up here and reject the proposed Budget, we are not objecting to service delivery. We are objecting to a senseless Budget. This Bill is a mockery to our people as it misses critical funding in basic education, health, road, and water infrastructure,' she said, adding that the Bill should be amended.
IFP MP Les Govender said the allocation of budgets to every department was essential.
'If we do not give budgets to those departments, how do we provide services to the very people that I'm surprised that we parties are saying we object to the Budget, but they want services to their people now, here to speak in their interest.
'Now, if you take municipalities, for example, they are the core of service delivery. If you do not allocate budgets to them, how do they give services to our people?' Govender said.
Freedom Front Plus MP Tamarin Breedt noted that the majority of spending allocation was to essential services like education, health, and social development.
'The VF Plus remains concerned about value for money. Billions are appropriated, but outcomes remain disappointing, especially at the local government level.'
mayibongwe.maqhina@inl.co.za
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
6 hours ago
- The Citizen
ConCourt declares appointment of 5 CGE commissioners invalid due to limited public participation
The CGE acknowledged the ruling in a brief statement on Friday. The Constitutional Court (ConCourt) has ruled that the appointments of five commissioners to the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) are invalid, citing Parliament's failure to ensure adequate public participation in the selection process. The ruling follows a legal challenge brought by the non-profit organisation Corruption Watch. The respondents in the matter included the speaker of the National Assembly, the president, the Information Regulator, and the five CGE commissioners. ALSO READ: Reserve Bank unlawfully interfered in Absa chair appointment, says court Media Monitoring Africa was admitted as amicus curiae (friend of the court). Corruption Watch contested the appointments of CGE commissioners chairperson Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale, deputy chairperson Prabashni Subrayan Naidoo, Thando Gumede, Bongani Ngomane, and Leonashia Leigh-Ann Van Der Merwe, all of whom took office in March 2023. These appointments, for terms of up to five years, were made by the president upon recommendation by Parliament. CGE commissioners' appointment process challenged The nomination process was led by Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. It began in June 2022 and closed nearly a month later. A shortlist of four candidates was compiled in late August, while public comment was invited between 2 and 16 September. Submissions were to be made via an online form linked through Parliament's website. The link led to a spreadsheet listing candidates' names and qualifications, but their full CVs were not published. READ MORE: Initiation schools: Commission wants answers on why recommendations haven't been carried out Despite Corruption Watch requesting an extension of the public comment period to 30 days, the removal of the character limit on submissions, and the release of CVs, the National Assembly proceeded with its recommendations to the president following candidate interviews. The appointments were announced on 25 February 2023, and the commissioners assumed office on 1 March. Corruption Watch then brought its application before the ConCourt under section 167(4)(e) of the Constitution, which grants the court exclusive jurisdiction to determine whether the National Assembly has failed to fulfil a constitutional obligation. The organisation argued that Parliament's process was flawed due to the limited public access to information about candidates, a 2 000-character restriction on submissions, and the short 14-day window for public comment. (4/4) CCT 333/23 Corruption Watch (RF) NPC v Speaker of the National Assembly and Others August 1, 2025 The speaker defended the process, stating it was reasonable and consistent with past procedures. It was argued that the 14-day period was sufficient, that public comments were properly considered, and that CVs could not be published without candidates' consent in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (Popia). However, the Information Regulator clarified in an affidavit that such consent is not required when the information is needed for the performance of public duties. ConCourt judgment In a unanimous ruling delivered on Friday, the ConCourt sided with Corruption Watch and found that the public participation process was insufficient. 'In the circumstances, the appointment process conducted by the National Assembly therefore did not comply with the obligations imposed by section 59(1)(a) of the Constitution and is therefore invalid,' the summary of the 1 August judgement reads. The declaration of invalidity has been suspended for 12 months from the date of the order, giving Parliament time to conduct a constitutionally compliant appointment process and allowing the president to make appointments. Reactions The CGE acknowledged the ruling in a brief statement on Friday. 'The commission remains committed to its legislative mandate and will continue to discharge its responsibilities while Parliament undertakes its processes. 'The commission will not make further public pronouncements or respond to media enquiries on this matter,' the statement reads. In addition, Corruption Watch welcomed the outcome. 'South African citizens have a right to participate fully in these processes, particularly where such institutions are at the forefront of ensuring justice and enforcement of human rights in the country. 'The opportunity for people to have their say in the appointment of representatives to Chapter 9 institutions like the CGE, is an important example of that process,' the organisation said in a statement. The CGE operates under section 187 of the Constitution, with a mandate to promote and protect gender equality. In March last year, six other commissioners – Seeham Samaai, Mulalo Grace Nemathaheni, Mfundo Nomvungu, Yanga Malotana, Kamohelo Rodney Teele, and Marion Lynn Stevens – were recommended by Parliament and subsequently approved by the president. NOW READ: MK party and Zuma suffer blow as ConCourt rules in Ramaphosa's favour
IOL News
8 hours ago
- IOL News
Vows, views … and venue red flags: what every couple should know
Don't let the beauty of your wedding venue blind you to the warning signs. Image: Pexels. As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your wedding, choosing the perfect venue is a crucial step. It's easy to be whisked away by stunning settings, twinkling lights and picturesque views, but before you get swept away and sign a contract, it's important to keep your eyes peeled for potential red flags. Claudia Postigo, a seasoned wedding planner and founder of The Planner Co., shares her five red flags to watch out for when picking your wedding venue. Hidden fees lurking in the fine print That enticing "all-inclusive" deal might have some sneaky surprises. Many venues hide additional costs in the small print, think service charges, cleaning fees and overtime penalties. Postigo's advice: "Always ask for a complete breakdown of every possible fee before signing anything." Strict vendor restrictions limit your options Some venues have exclusive partnerships with certain caterers, florists or photographers. This can restrict your choices and inflate your costs. Postigo's advice: 'If a venue says you can only use their preferred vendors, that's a major red flag. You should be free to choose professionals who align with your vision and budget. Restrictive venues often have deals with these vendors that benefit them more than you." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Make sure the venue has contingency plans if the weather turns bad. Don't take 'we'll figure it out' for an answer. Image: Pexels. Vague or non-existent weather backup plans If your heart is set on an outdoor ceremony, make sure the venue has contingency plans for bad weather. Postigo's advice: "Don't take 'we'll figure it out' for an answer. A reliable venue should have clear backup options, from sheltered areas to heating arrangements." High staff turnover or unclear staffing plans Take note of who you meet during your venue visits. If you're greeted by different coordinators each time, it might be a sign of instability. Postigo's advice: "Consistent communication with the same coordinator is key for a smooth wedding day. High turnover suggests your wedding details could get lost, and inexperienced staff may struggle to handle issues as they arise."
The South African
9 hours ago
- The South African
Cyril Ramaphosa replaces Senzo Mchunu with new Minister of Police
Professor Firoz Cachalia has been sworn in as the new Minister of Police during ceremony held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday. 'In terms of the powers vested in me by Section 91(3)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, I have decided to appoint the following person as Minister for the portfolio indicated in the signed President's Act. The said Minister-Designate, who is about to become Minister, is Professor Firoz Cachalia… (sic),' said President Cyril Ramaphosa during the ceremony. The swearing in follows President Ramaphosa's announcement last month that he had placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on a leave of absence with immediate effect. The affirmation was administered by Acting Judge President, Aubrey Ledwaba, following Cachalia's appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The President further announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry, led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, into allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi had raised concerns about an alleged criminal syndicate that has infiltrated law enforcement and intelligence structures. He also accused Mchunu of colluding with criminal elements to disband the Political Killings Task Team based in KwaZulu-Natal. Director-General in The Presidency, Phindile Baleni, who spoke at the swearing-in, congratulated the newly appointed Minister. 'Minister, we congratulate you on your appointment and wish you much success in your duties and endeavours to make South Africa and the world a better place for all,' Baleni said. Addressing members of the media after the ceremony, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the concerns regarding the seeming duplication in the police ministry. 'I know there is a technicality about seeming to have two Ministers in the same portfolio, and that is a matter I do believe is going to be resolved within a short space of time. 'I directed the commission [of inquiry] to complete its work as quickly as possible, so whatever confusion there might be is going to be of a short duration. I expect a report from the commission within three months and if they have to ask for an extension, we will give consideration to that. 'I do want this matter to be resolved as quickly as possible but at the same time, we have had to provide leadership to the police service. We can't leave a vacuum. Whilst all of this is happening, Minister Mchunu is on leave while this matter is being resolved, and he is preparing himself, as I hear, to appear before the commission,' the President said. Speaking to the media about his new role, Cachalia said he had not yet had an opportunity to meet with the President but had been informed that the first Cabinet meeting would take place on Wednesday, and he assumed the President would engage with him in due course. Cachalia assured the public that he is fully aware of the responsibility that comes with the role and is committed to prioritising their safety and security. 'I don't think there are any specific fears going into this portfolio. I understand the moment the country is in and the weight of the responsibility that I have, together with the others in government. I want to assure the public that their safety and security is uppermost in my mind. That's what I am going to focus on, and I hope that I will be able to take the country forward,' he said. Responding to a question on whether he supports the work of the Political Killings Task Team, Cachalia said he would comment after meeting with National Commissioner Fannie Masemola on Thursday next week. 'I don't think it will be appropriate for me to comment on that without having the benefit of a discussion with him,' he said. Cachalia also touched on his dual role as chairperson of the National Anti-Corruption Council, whose term ends at the end of the month. 'I do think that my appointment as a Minister of this portfolio, while I am still the chairperson of the National Anti-Corruption Council – the term of which expires at the end of this month… I am now in a better position than I was as chairperson to take the recommendations of the Council forward, and I will certainly be doing so.' Cachalia said he would ask the National Commissioner, during their upcoming meeting, to arrange a session between the Anti-Corruption Council and the police management team to discuss the Council's recommendations, adding that it is his intention to work closely with the Minister of Justice, as the recommendations impact both their portfolios. 'We will together be in a much better position going forward to take those recommendations forward. The recommendations that the Council has made are the ones I am committed to fully implementing,' Cachalia said. On when he will travel to KwaZulu-Natal to meet with General Mkhwanazi, Cachalia said the visit will depend on his discussion with the National Commissioner. 'As the national Minister, I have to visit all the provinces – in what sequence and with what priorities in mind, that still has to be determined. So, I will answer that question in the coming days,' he said. Minister Cachalia vowed to work hard and remain focused on his responsibilities despite the challenges surrounding his appointment. 'I will work hard. I am not distracted by the noise, and I am not driven by political ambition. I have been given a task. I am going to tackle the task without fear or favour, subject of course to the President's guidance and direction as a member of the Cabinet,' the Minister said. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
