Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Shelley Christians
Published on 2024-02-21 20:49:10
On Wednesday, during the 2024 Budget Speech delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana at the Cape Town City Hall, picketers from two opposition parties, Rise Mzansi and the Alliance of Citizens for Change (ACC), were asked by the police to move to Hanover Street, which was approximately 600m away from the City Hall.
The picketers from Rise Mzansi were advocating for tax relief for single mothers. According to their press release, Stats SA’s General Household Survey shows that 44.1% of households in South Africa are headed by single mothers. The organization called for a tax relief regime for single mothers who earn below R500,000 per annum, specifically on essential items such as baby formula and schooling.
On the other hand, members of the Alliance of Citizens for Change held placards advocating for the extension of tax zero-rating on foodstuffs and for the implementation of the death penalty for murderers. ACC leader Masizole Mnqasela and other members were not pleased with the police’s request to move away from the City Hall during the Budget Speech.
Despite the police request, about 200 people from various organizations gathered in Hanover Street to advocate for their causes. Rise Mzansi continued to call for tax relief for single mothers, emphasizing the need for support for those who are heading households on their own. The organization highlighted the statistics from Stats SA showing the prevalence of single-mother households in South Africa.
Meanwhile, the ACC members continued to protest for the causes they believe in, with leader Masizole Mnqasela addressing the party members during the picket. The organization stood firm in their advocacy for the extension of tax zero-rating on food items and for the implementation of the death penalty for murderers.
The atmosphere in Hanover Street was filled with passion and determination as members from various organizations voiced their concerns and demands. A member of Unite Behind was pictured resting on the ground and taking a photo during the picket, capturing the spirit of solidarity and determination among the protesters.
The picketers showed resilience and determination in standing up for the causes they believe in, despite the police request to move from their original location. The diverse range of organizations coming together in Hanover Street highlighted the multitude of issues and concerns facing the citizens of South Africa.
The 2024 Budget Speech was a significant moment in the political landscape of South Africa, and the presence of passionate picketers outside the City Hall and in Hanover Street showcased the ongoing dialogue and activism within the country. The protests served as a reminder of the importance of advocating for meaningful change and addressing the pressing issues that impact the lives of South African citizens.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
