DA Cancels Briefing as Budget Talks with ANC Reach Stalemate

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed frustration with the African National Congress (ANC), accusing its government partner of refusing to sign an agreement on economic growth and spending reforms.

DA leader John Steenhuisen took to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, warning that the ANC’s reluctance to finalize the agreement could jeopardize the Government of National Unity (GNU). As a result, the DA postponed a media briefing 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

Steenhuisen also made it clear that his party would not support the national budget unless a written agreement was reached.

ANC Holds Key Budget Discussions

The ANC, set to hold its post-National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at 9 AM, is expected to focus on budget negotiations. With Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s budget hanging in the balance, political analysts predict a tight battle for support.

The DA has already signaled a brewing crisis, blaming the ANC for stalling negotiations. However, sources within the ANC suggest that the ruling party is working to reach a broader agreement with multiple parties rather than being locked into a deal with the DA alone.

Meanwhile, ActionSA has been actively pushing its own proposals ahead of Tuesday’s finance committee meeting. Reports indicate that the party has been in intense discussions with the ANC overnight, signaling that budget talks remain fluid.

While the DA’s briefing was canceled, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula is still expected to address the media at 9 AM.

The ongoing impasse underscores the challenges of managing the GNU, with political tensions rising over the country’s financial future.

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Sourced:EWN