Ramaphosa Slammed for Salary Increases

President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved salary increases for political office-bearers, with most politicians receiving a 3.8% hike, while judges, magistrates and traditional leaders will receive a 4.1% increase. The adjustments will take effect from April 1, 2026.

The decision has sparked widespread public anger and debate, with many citizens criticising the move amid rising living costs, poor service delivery and persistently high unemployment.

Several South Africans say they feel betrayed, questioning why politicians are awarded salary increases while ordinary citizens continue to struggle. Critics argue that the decision reflects misplaced priorities and a lack of meaningful support for vulnerable communities.

A father of two, 42-year-old Thabo Mafora from Molemane outside Mahikeng, said he has been unemployed for the past seven years.

He described the president’s decision as a direct insult to the working class and the poor, saying millions of South Africans are barely surviving under worsening economic conditions.

“This is an irrelevant decision threatening our livelihoods. The economy is limping, and many citizens are living in extremely difficult conditions,” Mafora said.

He added that the president should have focused on creating jobs instead of approving salary increases for politicians.

“I have been unemployed for many years and I have a family to take care of. Why can’t the president at least create employment for people like us? This decision is bad for taxpayers and for unemployed people. South Africans are already grappling with a rising cost of living, high unemployment and ongoing service delivery challenges. We must stand together and condemn this decision,” he said.

Another resident, Malerato Mooketsi from Matikiring village near Lichtenburg, echoed similar sentiments, saying the decision was a slap in the face of the public.

“President Ramaphosa and his advisers are very wrong. Public funds should be used to address service delivery failures, poverty and healthcare, not to increase politicians’ salaries. This decision deepens the divide between the government and the people,” she said.

Mooketsi added that it was unfair for politicians to receive salary increases while citizens struggle with the high cost of living.

The salary adjustments were recommended by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers, which considered inflation, the country’s financial position and the public wage bill. According to President Ramaphosa, the increases are based on these recommendations and follow consultations with relevant stakeholders.