EFF Sues Finance Minister Over Fuel Levy Hike, Calling It “Unlawful and Unconstitutional”
In a dramatic legal turn that could reshape South Africa’s approach to fuel pricing and fiscal accountability, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has taken Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to court over a planned fuel levy increase, which the party deems unlawful and unconstitutional.
Filed in the Western Cape High Court, the EFF’s urgent application seeks to halt the implementation of a 16-cent increase on petrol and 15 cents on diesel, set to take effect on 4 June 2025.
EFF: Levy Increase Bypasses Parliament and the Constitution
The EFF argues that the fuel levy adjustment constitutes a Money Bill, and as such, must be introduced through Parliament as per Section 77 of the Constitution. By allegedly bypassing this legislative process, the Finance Minister is accused of repeating the same procedural flaw that led to a backlash over the VAT increase in previous years.
“We are acting to protect our people, the Constitution, and Parliamentary accountability,” the EFF stated.
The party emphasized that this fight is not just about rising fuel prices, but about upholding the rule of law and ensuring that fiscal decisions are made transparently and lawfully.
Cost-of-Living Crisis at the Heart of the Dispute
South Africans have been facing relentless increases in living expenses, and fuel hikes are known to ripple through the economy, affecting the price of food, transport, and essential services. The EFF warns that the levy could push millions further into economic hardship, disproportionately affecting the working class and poor.
“This increase will aggravate an already dire cost-of-living crisis and should not be allowed to proceed without parliamentary scrutiny,” the party argued in court papers.
What’s at Stake
The case has broad implications for:
- Parliamentary authority over public finance
- Transparency in fuel pricing
- Economic justice and affordability for ordinary South Africans
Should the court side with the EFF, it could halt the increase and reassert parliamentary control over fiscal policy — potentially setting a precedent for similar cases in future.
Awaiting Judgment
With 4 June fast approaching, the court is expected to rule swiftly. The outcome will be closely watched by legal analysts, economists, and citizens alike — not just for its immediate impact, but for its potential to redefine public financial governance in South Africa.
