Cosatu slams Ramaphosa over 3.5% politician salary hike
The trade union federation argues the increase is a poor message amid high unemployment and failing public services.
Cosatu has criticised President Cyril Ramaphosa for approving a 3.5% salary increase for politicians and public office-bearers, effective from April 1, 2026. This decision comes as South Africans grapple with high unemployment and deteriorating public services.
Cosatu Parliamentary Coordinator Matthew Parks questioned the timing, noting that municipalities struggle with finances and service delivery while 13 million people are unemployed. He highlighted that municipal workers have often not been paid, and their medical aids have defaulted.
The federation supports a separate 4% increase for magistrates, deeming it crucial for retaining skilled professionals in the judiciary. The salary adjustments were based on recommendations from the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers.
Why it mattersSouth African politicians will receive a 3.5% salary increase while the public faces unemployment and service delivery failures.