DA, EFF prepare legal challenges to budget process in South Africa

The Democratic Alliance (DA) of South Africa has filed a court case challenging the legality of the recently passed national budget, specifically opposing a proposed value-added tax (VAT) increase. The DA argues that the parliamentary procedures leading to the budget's approval were flawed, claiming that the Finance Committee did not adhere to proper rules during its adoption. Other parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the MK Party, are also preparing legal challenges against the budget process, citing concerns over the VAT hike's impact on the poor. The finance minister is expected to return to Parliament with alternatives to address the revenue shortfall within 30 days, potentially scrapping the VAT increase. The DA's leader has expressed that the coalition's actions will make life more expensive for South Africans and emphasized the need for budget revisions to support economic growth. The outcome of these legal disputes could significantly impact the stability of the ruling coalition as the DA considers its future within the government.