EFF Extends Condolences to Catholic Community on the Passing of Pope Francis
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have expressed condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and Catholics worldwide following the passing of Pope Francis. The party described Pope Francis as a leader who rejected luxury and served the poor and oppressed, highlighting his visits to Africa and his outspoken advocacy against inequality and exploitation.
The EFF also commended Pope Francis for raising his voice against the suffering in Gaza, calling for peace and condemning the loss of civilian lives. The party reaffirmed its solidarity with the Palestinian people and called for continuous resistance against oppression.
Victory Against VAT Increase Celebrated by the EFF
The EFF hailed the Western Cape High Court ruling of 27 April 2025 as a major victory. The court set aside the 2025 Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals and suspended the VAT increase scheduled for 1 May 2025.
According to the EFF, this judgment is the result of their strategic, legal, and parliamentary interventions. They emphasized that this was not influenced by political theatrics but by structured legal processes. The VAT suspension, the party argues, protects millions of South Africans already burdened by high living costs.
Call for Accountability and Resignation
Following the court decision, the EFF has called for the immediate resignation of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and National Treasury Director-General Duncan Pieterse. The party criticized their inability to present a lawful and developmental budget, accusing them of losing the confidence of both the South African public and business community.
The EFF stated that the failure to produce a credible budget could trigger a constitutional crisis unless a new, lawful budget is tabled by July 2025.
Highlighting Broader Budget Concerns
Beyond the VAT issue, the EFF criticized the overall 2025 budget, describing it as flawed and aligned with neoliberal austerity policies that neglect South Africa’s economic realities. They reiterated their opposition to budget cuts and regressive taxation.
The party emphasized its role in exposing unconstitutional fiscal processes and political maneuvering within Parliament, accusing certain political figures of compromising legislative independence.
Landmark Court Ruling Details
The Western Cape High Court’s decision included:
- Setting aside the illegally adopted Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals.
- Suspending the VAT increase planned for 1 May 2025.
- Restoring constitutional order to Parliament’s budget process.
The EFF described this outcome as a victory for all South Africans, especially the working class and the poor, against policies that would have worsened economic hardship.
EFF Commitment to Future Engagement
The EFF committed to participating meaningfully in the formulation of a new budget that prioritizes economic recovery, mass employment, and the restoration of public services. They vowed to oppose any return to austerity measures that disproportionately impact vulnerable communities.
The party concluded by reaffirming its stance against economic inequality and emphasizing the need for structural reforms to protect South Africa’s most marginalized citizens.
