Government departments want R717 billion from taxpayers in extra cash that the Finance Minister says does not exist

The government's request for R717 billion in extra funding has been met with skepticism, as the National Treasury has informed ministers and departments that the funds do not exist. This comes as the country grapples with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 78.4% and is borrowing almost R2 billion a week to fund the government, casting doubt on the government's fiscal discipline. The Finance Minister's assertion that the funds are not available could test Godongwana's commitment to fiscal responsibility, raising concerns about the government's ability to manage its finances.