ANC describes meeting with FF Plus over budget impasse as constructive

JOHANNESBURG - The African National Congress (ANC) has described its latest meeting with the Freedom Front (FF) Plus about the ongoing national budget impasse as constructive.

Earlier in April, the FF Plus, alongside the Democratic Alliance (DA), voted against the passing of the fiscal framework in the National Assembly.

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Both parties are opposed to a 0.5 percent value-added tax (VAT) increase, which is expected to come into effect in May.

The ANC’s negotiation team has had a long few days, holding talks with several political parties in an effort to break the ongoing budget deadlock.

While the process has been lengthy, the ANC remains optimistic, particularly after what it described as constructive meetings with both the DA and the FF Plus.

During its discussion with the FF Plus, the two parties agreed on the significance of the recently adopted fiscal framework and the broader goal of ensuring stability in public finances.

The ANC highlighted that the meeting was conducted in a respectful manner, with a clear focus on the national interests.

This, as the ANC has been unhappy over the behaviour of some coalition partners, saying some parties, including the DA, used every opportunity to disrespect its Government of National Unity (GNU) partners.