South African Public Office Bearers to Receive Salary Hike Effective April 2025

President Approves Differentiated Salary Increases

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially approved salary adjustments for various public office bearers in South Africa, set to take effect from April 1, 2025. The increases are differentiated, with some categories receiving a 4.1% hike and others a 3.8% increase. This determination follows recommendations put forth by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers.

Breakdown of Increases by Category

The approved salary increases are structured as follows:

• A 4.1% increase will be applied to the remuneration of judges, magistrates, traditional leaders, and members of independent constitutional institutions.
• A 3.8% increase is designated for Members of the National Executive (including Ministers and Deputy Ministers), Members of Parliament, members of provincial executive councils, and members of provincial legislatures.

For instance, under the new adjustments, the Deputy President's annual salary is projected to increase from R3.16-million to R3.28-million, marking an increase of R120,000. Ministers will see their earnings rise to R2.79-million, while Deputy Ministers will receive R2.30-million. Ordinary Members of Parliament will have salaries starting from R1.32-million.

Role of the Independent Commission

The President's decision is based on the recommendations of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers. The Commission is constitutionally mandated, under Section 219 of the Constitution and the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers Act of 1997, to provide annual recommendations regarding the salaries, allowances, and benefits of public office bearers.

In formulating its recommendations, the Commission considers a range of factors, including the role, status, duties, functions, and responsibilities of the office bearers, the affordability of different remuneration levels, current principles and levels of remuneration in the public sector, inflation rates, available state resources, and public service remuneration levels.

Context and Public Reaction

The announcement of these salary increases has generated public discussion, particularly given the prevailing economic conditions and rising cost of living in South Africa. Some commentators have expressed concern, describing the decision as 'shocking' and 'uncaring' in light of the country's economic challenges.