MK party slams GNU partners for prioritising political expediency before South Africa
The KZN treasury said it would consult its national counterparts concerning the next steps after withdrawing its budget
President Cyril Ramaphosa smiles as Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen shakes hands with Deputy President Paul Mashatile at a sitting of Parliament. Picture: AFP
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has accused the government of national unity (GNU) of failing to run the country and is calling for fresh elections.
Various disagreements have occurred between GNU partners concerning Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana's increase in value-added tax (VAT).
The DA has also challenged Godongwana's power to raise taxes single-handedly for most South Africans.
The instability at the national government level also saw the MEC of finance in KwaZulu-Natal announcing the withdrawal of the provincial budget.
Cracks within GNU
In a statement MK party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said it is clear that the GNU is failing to govern with consensus on a number of issues.
'The cracks in the GNU are not just showing, they are deepening. What began as discontent over policy missteps has now evolved into a complete loss of public trust,' Ndhlela said.
'How can citizens believe in a government that cannot meet the most fundamental obligation of governance; approving a budget? This debacle adds to a legacy of failure that has come to define the ANC of Ramaphosa.'
Ndhlela said the GNU has become a symbol of everything that is wrong with coalition politics,
'They are driven by expediency, rather than principle.'
MK had called for a recount of the votes after the 2024 elections. At the time, the party claimed that votes had been 'stolen'.
ALSO READ: GNU stumbles as VAT hike U-turn heightens ANC-DA tensions
Calls for fresh elections
Now Ndhlela said the party believes that the only way to solve the 'governance crisis' in the country is to have fresh elections that will produce an outright winner.
'The MK party reiterates its call for Parliament to be dissolved immediately and for fresh elections to be held.
'The people of South Africa deserve a government that will put their needs first, a government that is bold, decisive and prepared to lead this country out of the abyss created by the GNU.
'South Africa cannot afford another day under this reckless, inept administration.'
Revised budget
Meanwhile, Godongwana is expected to have a third attempt at passing a revised budget later this month.
Following consultations with parties such as ActionSA, Build One South Africa and Rise Mzansi, the minister made a U-turn on his decision to increase VAT by 0.5%.
The KZN government is expected to table its budget after Godongwana's revised budget.
For now, provincial departments are expected to use funds not exceeding 45% of last year's budget pending the finalisation of the process.
NOW READ: MK party demands answers: Why are some judges living lavish lifestyles?
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