ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba stated that ANC should not increase VAT as this might cause even more damage to low class family.
According to Softdisi: This demand comes amid rising public dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy, as citizens grapple with high inflation and increasing living costs.
The government’s proposal to raise VAT has been met with widespread criticism from various sectors, including opposition parties, business leaders, and civil society organizations.
Critics argue that an increase would disproportionately affect low- and middle-income households, further straining already tight budgets.
Mashaba on his statement emphasized that they must consider about the living of those who can’t afford to buy proper food due to the lack of incomes.
He said “We cannot burden our citizens with higher taxes when they are already struggling to make ends meet.”
Mashaba gave a task to ANC to do proper research about the family that sometimes fails to have food on the table.
He said “Our people are suffering. The government needs to prioritize their needs over fiscal measures that will only deepen the crisis.”
ActionSA has positioned itself as a staunch advocate for the working class, pledging to fight against policies that they believe will exacerbate economic hardships.
The party has called for a comprehensive review of the government’s tax policies, advocating for alternative measures that would not place additional financial burdens on citizens.
Mashaba concluded his statement by highlighting that instead of increasing VAT they must come up with plan on how to generate money.
He said “We need to explore other avenues to generate revenue without punishing our people. The VAT increase is simply not the answer.”
As ActionSA continues to push for the scrapping of the VAT increase, the political landscape in South Africa remains charged.
Mashaba’s firm position highlights the urgent need for the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders to address the economic crisis.
With public support on their side, ActionSA is poised to challenge the government’s fiscal policies and advocate for a more equitable economic framework.
The coming weeks will be critical as the nation watches how this demand unfolds in the context of ongoing economic discussions.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO