The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has rejected the 2026 Budget Speech delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in the National Assembly on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
In a detailed statement, the party criticised the fiscal framework, opposed proposed fuel levy increases, and called for higher social grants and the introduction of a wealth tax.
What is happening?
The EFF has formally rejected the 2026 Budget tabled by the Minister of Finance.
According to the party, the budget fails to address South Africa’s economic crisis and continues what it calls an austerity approach. It criticised projected economic growth of 1.4% in 2025 and a medium-term projection of 1.8%.
The EFF also rejected:
- The proposed fuel levy increases set to take effect on 1 April 2026
- The principle-based fiscal anchor framework
- Continued borrowing from institutions such as the IMF and World Bank
- What it described as the privatisation of public functions
However, the party welcomed the adjustment of personal income tax brackets in line with 3.4% inflation and supported increases to social grants.
Why it matters to you
This statement matters because Parliament must still debate and vote on the fiscal framework and related tax measures.
If approved, the fuel levy increases could affect petrol and diesel prices from 1 April 2026. Meanwhile, personal income tax adjustments may offer limited relief to households.
Social grant beneficiaries may also be affected depending on final allocations and whether future reforms, such as a universal basic income grant, are pursued.
What you need to know
| Issue | What the EFF says | What this means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel levy | Rejects increase from 1 April 2026 | Petrol and diesel prices could rise if approved |
| Income tax | Welcomes 3.4% bracket adjustment | Some tax relief for working households |
| Social grants | Supports increases, calls for doubling | Grants may rise, but final amounts depend on Treasury |
| Debt levels | Questions debt stabilisation at 78.9% of GDP | Government borrowing remains a key issue |
| Fiscal anchor | Opposes principle-based approach | Framework will be debated in Parliament |
| Wealth tax | Proposes introduction | No implementation yet |
What you should do next
- Monitor parliamentary debates on the fiscal framework and revenue laws.
- Check petrol and diesel price updates ahead of 1 April 2026.
- If you receive a social grant, follow confirmed announcements from SASSA before making financial decisions.
- Review your 2026/27 tax planning once final legislation is passed.
For updates on grants, visit our SASSA Grants category hub for verified information.
Where to get help / official sources
- National Treasury: www.treasury.gov.za
- Parliament of South Africa: www.parliament.gov.za
- South African Revenue Service (SARS): www.sars.gov.za
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA): www.sassa.gov.za
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