President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings, where he approved a 3.8% salary increase for ministers, deputy ministers and MPs, sparking national discussion on public sector pay. Picture Credit: polity.org.za
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved a 3.8% salary increase for South Africa’s top politicians, including ministers, deputy ministers, and Members of Parliament, following recommendations from the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers. The increase applies to the 2025/26 financial year and aims to align salaries with inflation and the cost of living.
Under the new adjustment, ministers and deputy ministers will see their monthly salaries rise by tens of thousands of rands. Provincial legislatures will receive a slightly higher increase of 4.1%, while salaries for other public office bearers, including the Deputy President and Premier positions, will also be adjusted accordingly. The exact figure for President Ramaphosa’s own salary will be determined separately by Parliament.
The salary increase follows the commission’s annual review, which considers factors such as inflation, government budgetary constraints, and comparable positions in the public and private sectors. The commission stated that the adjustment is intended to ensure that public office bearers are remunerated fairly while continuing to attract and retain qualified leaders.
The announcement has prompted mixed reactions from the public. Critics argue that a pay increase for the political elite comes at a time when many South Africans are grappling with high inflation, rising living costs, and unemployment. Some civil society groups have called for a more cautious approach, suggesting that the government should prioritise service delivery and social welfare over salary hikes.
Supporters, however, say that competitive remuneration is essential to prevent corruption and ensure capable leadership. They note that salaries for ministers and MPs remain modest compared to senior executives in the private sector and that adjustments are necessary to reflect economic realities.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of balancing fair compensation with accountability. He said, “We continue to ensure that remuneration for public office bearers reflects the responsibilities they carry while remaining sensitive to the fiscal realities of the country.” The administration confirmed that the increase would be implemented in line with government regulations and oversight, with transparency maintained in all adjustments.
The decision forms part of an ongoing debate in South Africa regarding public sector pay, government priorities, and equitable economic policy, especially during periods of financial pressure for ordinary citizens.
It is fair that public office that they get that they get salary increases they are also affected by high inflation we could also appreciate if the president can also attend to the salay reviews