ActionSA and Build One South Africa (BOSA) have issued urgent calls for a transformative national budget that tackles South Africa’s deepening unemployment crisis and corruption.
This is ahead of the third budget to be presented by Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana on Wednesday.
ActionSA MP Alan Beesley slammed the government of national unity (GNU) for failing to bring about real economic change, nearly a year after taking office.
He highlighted the recent Statistics SA report, which revealed a 43.1% expanded unemployment rate, with 8.23 million people jobless.
Unemployment
“These are not just statistics, they are stories of hardship, hunger, and hopelessness. Behind every number is a young graduate sending out CVs with no response. A breadwinner sitting at home with no income, and families forced to choose between electricity and food,” said Beesley.
“Despite bold promises to usher in a new era, almost one year later, nothing has changed. Economic growth remains stuck below 1%, interest payments now consume 22 cents of every Rand in tax value. And not a single GNU minister has signed a performance agreement,” he added.
He demanded that the new budget avoid new taxes and adjust personal income tax brackets for inflation. Also that it properly funds the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to enhance revenue collection, and fight illicit trade with a proposal to increase the current R7.5-billion. Funding to the NPA must be increased for effective prosecution of high profile cases and corruption.
He also added that the budget should lay foundations for economic growth. And he called for reforms in electricity, rail, and logistics sectors. Beesley also called for the introduction of a new Inclusive Economic Empowerment Act to replace BBBEE.
Roger Solomons, BOSA acting spokesperson, also warned against another status quo budget. He cited high food prices, high fuel costs, and rising household debt.
Reflect real struggles
He insisted that the budget must reflect the real struggles South Africans face daily.
“It would be irresponsible of the minister – and the government – to ignore or misread the national mood. It is one of struggle and a great thirst for change. Some South Africans are barely getting by; others are not. The cost of living is soaring,” said Solomons.
“The April 2025 Household Affordability Index reports that the basic food basket now costs R5 420. This while a third of petrol prices are made up of government taxes and levies. Household debt is rising, inflation is driving up bond and rental costs. And economic growth remains stagnant,” he added.
He said budget to the People, a campaign where BOSA gathered public input, showed that 93% oppose any VAT increase, income tax or fuel levies, while 89% demand a strong focus on job creation.
At least 71% want more funding for education, health, and policing. While 69% support cutting cabinet size and ministerial perks.
Jobs and justice fund
He said BOSA’s proposals include a R10-billion jobs and justice fund. It also wants all townships declared as special economic zones to boost local business. Raising infrastructure investment to 30% of GDP, and hiring 120 000 police officers. As well as placing unemployed teachers and doctors in vital public service roles.
“[This] budget is a defining moment. Will it be business as usual, or will government finally make the tough calls? South Africans are watching closely, hoping for a turning point.
“This is an opportunity to move away from the mismanagement of the past. To chart a new course toward fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and a government that prioritises the needs of its people,” said Rogers.
