South Africa Approves Up to 4% Salary Increases for Public Office-Bearers

November 11, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved salary increases of between 3.5 percent and 4 percent for public office-bearers for the 2026/27 financial year, with the adjustments taking effect from April 1, 2026.

The increases follow recommendations by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers, which advises the government on salaries, allowances and benefits for senior public officials.

Members of the National Executive, National Assembly and permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces will receive a 3.5 percent increase. The same adjustment applies to provincial premiers, members of provincial executive councils and provincial legislatures.

Judges of the Constitutional Court and other courts, as well as magistrates, will receive a 4 percent increase. Traditional leaders and members of the national and provincial houses of traditional and Khoi-San leaders will also receive a 4 percent adjustment.

Members of independent constitutional institutions are included in the 4 percent category.

In determining the adjustments, the commission considered fiscal affordability, historical and projected inflation, wage settlement data and average annual salary increases, alongside the responsibilities and functions of the respective office-bearers.

The commission operates under section 219 of South Africa's Constitution and the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers Act of 1997, which requires it to make annual recommendations on the remuneration of public officials. Ramaphosa said his decision also took into account the serious economic challenges facing the country.

Source: FSX Business News