LOL! Twitter in stitches about Gwede Mantashe's reaction to spirits price hike

27 February 2020 - 06:19
By Cebelihle Bhengu
Mineral resources and energy minister Gwede Mantashe.
Image: Simphiwe Nkwali © Sunday Times Mineral resources and energy minister Gwede Mantashe.

Mineral resources and energy minister Gwede Mantashe's hilarious reaction to the price increase for spirits as it was announced during the budget speech has social media in stitches.

Finance minister Tito Mboweni said on Wednesday that while there will be no increase in personal income tax, VAT and sorghum beer, an increase of almost R3 will be imposed on spirits.

Many joked that Mantashe must have been in a state of suspense as “national breadwinner” Mboweni made the announcement that Treasury will be increasing sin taxes.

A bottle of 750ml spirits, including whisky, gin or vodka, will rise by R2,89,” said the minister.

Mantashe appeared to be breathing through the wound when the announcement was made. He was captured on camera saying “yhooo”, while rubbing his face.

Here's what tweeps had to say: