Wilhelm Van Zyl - Discipline pays off
In his budget speech, finance minister Trevor Manuel once again reminded us that government should also be lauded for its fiscal discipline over the years - which has been exemplary by any standards, emerging or developed
more

Blum Khan - Get the basics right
This year's budget, along with the national election in April, presents an ideal opportunity for the country to get its health system in order. The sooner we start, the sooner we can make progress along what will undoubtedly be a bumpy road
more

Phillip Matlakala - Take responsibility
It's good that in tough times government is maintaining its social spending, but now is the time for all South Africans to take responsibility. We are taxed at every turn. When you tally up what we pay in direct and indirect taxes, we're highly taxed.
more

Jaanre Fourie - Tough job well done
The budget confirmed that SA is back into deficit territory after enjoying three years of surpluses due to strong economic growth and fiscal prudence. However, we have to acknowledge that the environment is a lot more challenging
more

Romeo Makhubela - Stand and deliver
Finance minister Trevor Manuel's speech is a good news speech in the context of the current market environment. We believe the minister is cashing in on prudent fiscal management over the past few years - deservedly so.
more

John Melville - Balancing act
Government's 2009 budget seeks to balance the urgent need to mitigate the worst effects of the economic recession with the longer-term objective of strengthening the country's delivery of education, safety & security, health care and social security
more