Gauteng’s ANC-led minority govt engaging parties to have budget passed

The African National Congress (ANC)-led minority government in Gauteng is engaging other political parties in the provincial legislature for support to pass its budget.

On Tuesday, Finance MEC Lebogang Maile told the media that discussions with parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party are continuing behind the scenes.

This comes after the EFF, which holds about 11 seats in the legislature, vowed not to support the budget following a fallout with the ANC.

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Maile said the budget process still has several steps before a final vote can take place after it is tabled in the legislature.

He added that legislation allows for spending to continue to ensure government operations continue even if the budget is not passed by 1 April 2026.

“We hope that in the best interest of the public because when you look at the budget, the bulk is going to the most vulnerable in society. So, of course, we are concerned, and we will work with them and everyone else to try and pass the budget.”