The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have filed an urgent application in the Western Cape High Court in a bid to halt the implementation of an upcoming fuel levy increase, set to take effect on 4 June.
The move follows Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s announcement during his recent budget speech, where he confirmed a hike in the fuel levy, increasing the price of petrol by 16 cents per litre and diesel by 15 cents.
In its court submission, the EFF argues that the Finance Minister does not have the authority to impose or raise taxes without parliamentary approval. The party contends that such decisions must follow due legislative process, including public participation and a formal vote in Parliament.
Godongwana’s budget presentation included several key financial bills, as well as the broader fiscal framework policy under which the fuel levy falls. However, the EFF maintains that this framework is still undergoing public hearings through the standing committee on finance, which is yet to finalise its recommendations.
According to the EFF, the correct process requires the committee to conclude public consultations, compile a final report, and submit it to the Finance Minister. Only after reviewing this report can the minister present the final proposal to Parliament for a vote.
The EFF argues that this multi-step process cannot realistically be completed before the 4 June implementation date, making the proposed increase premature and legally questionable.
The court is now expected to determine whether the fuel levy hike can proceed as scheduled or if it should be paused pending proper parliamentary procedures.