Ramaphosa approves 3.8% and 4.1% salary hikes for public officials

Zuko Komisa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has formalised salary increases for public office-bearers, effective 1 April 2025, following a review of recommendations from the Independent Commission.
A 4.1% increase has been granted to judges, magistrates, and traditional leaders, while a slightly lower 3.8% increase applies to MPs and the National Executive.
The adjustments were determined after assessing fiscal affordability, inflation, and the state’s available resources in accordance with the Constitution.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised salary increments for South African public office-bearers, effective from 1 April 2025.

While the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers initially recommended a flat 4.1% increase across the board, the President opted for a tiered approach to mitigate the impact on the national fiscus.

Following the President’s determination, judges, magistrates, and traditional leaders will pocket a 4.1% increase, while Members of Parliament and the National Executive will enjoy a 3.8% hike.

For an ordinary MP, this adds approximately R48,432 to an annual package that now reaches R1,322,968.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Ministers will see their pay packets climb by over R102,000, bringing their total earnings to roughly R2,792,155.

The determination follows a rigorous review process mandated by the Constitution and the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers Act.

President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the Commission’s diligence and integrity in formulating these recommendations to ensure a balance between fair remuneration and fiscal responsibility.