Political parties have outlined their expectations ahead of the 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), calling for measures to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and ease the rising cost of living.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is expected to table the MTBPS on Wednesday afternoon, amid growing pressure on the government to provide relief to households and businesses facing persistent economic challenges.
Rise Mzansi says the statement should be assessed on its ability to address the cost-of-living crisis. The party expects a tax revenue windfall exceeding R54 billion and believes the additional revenue could provide temporary relief to struggling households.
Party spokesperson Mabine Seabe said global economic volatility, including US trade policies and energy shocks in the Middle East, was contributing to fuel inflation. High diesel prices were also increasing supply chain costs and placing further pressure on household budgets.
Rise Mzansi believes that while additional revenue could offer short-term relief, it would not resolve the economy’s structural challenges. The party has called on National Treasury to reconsider its reliance on fuel levies and outline a clear plan to ease financial pressure on households.
The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) has also called for the MTBPS to lay the foundation for economic recovery, job creation and social stability.
ACDP MP Steve Swart said the statement came at a critical time, as South Africa faced rising global crude oil prices, high unemployment and crime.
The party expects a tax revenue windfall of up to R50 billion during the current financial year. Swart said the additional funds should be used to stabilise public debt and debt-servicing costs while providing relief to financially strained households and businesses.
The ACDP has further called on Parliament to expedite the Special Appropriation Bill, which aims to provide R10 billion in fuel tax relief to help reduce pressure at the pumps.
Meanwhile, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) wants the MTBPS to balance fiscal responsibility with the urgent social and economic needs of South Africans.
IFP Chief Whip Nhlanhla Hadebe said the party expected a fiscal framework that would support economic growth, job creation and small businesses while strengthening social protection for vulnerable communities.
The IFP has also called for increased government spending to combat gender-based violence and femicide, which it considers an important priority in the country’s spending plans.
As Godongwana prepares to deliver the statement, the parties have stressed the importance of addressing immediate financial pressures while laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.
Their expectations include targeted tax relief, responsible debt management, job creation and greater support for vulnerable households. The MTBPS will face scrutiny over how effectively it responds to South Africa’s economic and social challenges.