By Suleman Chitera
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved salary increases for politicians and other public office-bearers, a move that has triggered mixed reactions across the country.
The adjustments will take effect from April 1 and apply across the executive and legislative branches. Under the revised pay structure, the deputy president will earn approximately US$177,000 per year, cabinet ministers about US$151,000, deputy ministers roughly US$124,000, while Members of Parliament will take home around US$71,000 annually.
According to the Presidency, the salary review was informed by inflationary trends, the state of government finances, and the overall public sector wage bill. Officials argue the increases are measured and necessary to maintain the integrity and functionality of public office.
However, the decision has not gone unchallenged. Labour unions and some political groups have criticised the timing, saying pay rises for elected leaders are difficult to justify as many South Africans grapple with rising living costs, unemployment, and economic uncertainty.
The debate highlights a recurring tension in South Africa’s political economy: balancing fiscal responsibility and fair compensation for public officials against widespread socio-economic pressures faced by ordinary citizens.
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