The EFF argued that Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s decision to raise the fuel levy was unconstitutional, asserting that it constituted a tax increase implemented without proper parliamentary approval. The party contended that this move would disproportionately impact low-income households and deepen existing economic inequalities. They claimed that the increase violated the Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act, which mandates that tax measures be introduced through formal legislation.
In response, the National Treasury maintained that the fuel levy adjustment was a regulatory change within the minister’s authority and did not require a separate legislative process. Treasury’s legal representatives emphasized that the levy adjustment was part of the broader budgetary framework and essential for maintaining fiscal stability.
The court’s dismissal of the EFF’s application means that the fuel levy increase will proceed as planned. The EFF has indicated its intention to continue opposing the levy hike through parliamentary channels and potential further legal action.
