South Africa’s (SA) opposition Economic Freedom Fighters leader, Julius Malema, has criticised the 2026 national budget, saying it lacks a clear strategy to drive economic growth and create jobs.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said the economy is expected to grow by 1.6% this year (about $0.09%) ,an improvement from the 1.4% ($0.08%) forecast last year. However, Malema argued that growth projections alone are not enough without concrete plans to stimulate the economy.

He said the government appeared to be trying to present a balanced budget message in an election year, but warned that without stronger economic expansion, job creation and infrastructure development would remain constrained. Malema added that higher tax collection does not automatically translate into real economic growth.

–ChannelAfrica–