While the Budget Justice Coalition has welcomed Treasury's reversal of the VAT hike it has slammed what it calls 'the false choice between raising taxes or slashing vital services'. The organization insists South Africa can build a fair, inclusive budget without deepening poverty. They propose credible, progressive alternatives, from tapping into reserves to curbing corporate tax breaks. The organization has made a call to fund public services properly and reject spending cuts that punish the poor. The organization says a just, people-centered budget is within reach. For more Bongiwe Zwane spoke to  Matshidiso Lencoasa, a member of the Steering Committee of the Budget Justice Coalition