Fikile Mbalula
By Mpho Moloi
The African National Congress (ANC) will host a media briefing today, led by Secretary General Fikile Mbalula, to address critical national issues. The briefing, set to take place at 14h00 at Chief Albert Luthuli House in Johannesburg, will focus on the National Budget, workers’ rights, and the recent government clampdown on road fatalities during the Easter season. This briefing underscores the ANC’s commitment to transparent governance and tackling pressing socio-economic challenges facing South Africans.
ANC National Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri announced that Mbalula will outline the party’s stance on budget priorities aimed at protecting vulnerable communities while fostering inclusive economic growth. “The Secretary General will state the ANC’s position on budget priorities that defend the poor while growing an inclusive economy,” Bhengu-Motsiri said. This comes amid ongoing debates surrounding the 2025 National Budget, particularly the controversial 0.5% value-added tax (VAT) increase, which has sparked tensions within the Government of National Unity (GNU). Mbalula is expected to address these fiscal challenges and highlight measures to cushion the poor, such as expanding zero-rated food items to mitigate the VAT hike’s impact.
With May Day approaching, Mbalula will also spotlight the ANC’s efforts to “advance and defend workers’ rights” as the nation prepares for commemorative rallies across South Africa. The ANC has long championed labour rights, and this briefing is likely to reaffirm the party’s commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and job creation. Recent reports indicate that the ANC is pushing for policies to address unemployment, which stood at 32.1% in Q1 2025, by promoting sustainable economic initiatives and supporting small businesses.
Additionally, Mbalula will commend the government’s proactive measures to reduce road fatalities during the Easter season. The Department of Transport reported a 15% decrease in road deaths compared to 2024, attributed to stricter law enforcement, increased roadblock operations, and public awareness campaigns. “The Secretary General will also congratulate the government clampdown on Road fatalities during the Easter Season,” Bhengu-Motsiri noted. This success highlights the ANC-led government’s focus on improving road safety, a critical issue given South Africa’s high traffic accident rates.
The media briefing comes at a pivotal time for the ANC, as it navigates coalition dynamics within the GNU and addresses public concerns over economic pressures. Recent discussions around the National Budget have revealed divisions, particularly with the Democratic Alliance (DA), which opposed the VAT increase. Mbalula’s address is expected to clarify the ANC’s strategy to unify coalition partners and secure parliamentary support for the fiscal framework before the 1 May deadline.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 102 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: “Hope for Matjhabeng as Executive Mayor Khalipha Rolls Out Plan for Renewal After ANC Reinstatement”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Central-News-Issue-102.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube