Saftu rejects 3.5% salary hike for public officials
The union calls the increase indefensible amid millions struggling with unemployment and poverty.
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved salary increases of 3.5% for ministers, MPs, premiers, and MECs, and 4% for judges, effective April 1, 2026. These decisions follow recommendations from the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers, with the president considering economic challenges.
The South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) rejected the 3.5% raise for most public office-bearers, deeming it indefensible. Saftu general-secretary Zwelinzima Vavi stated that in the second quarter of 2026, 8.5 million people were officially unemployed and another 4.6 million were part of the potential labour force.
Saftu highlighted the country's poverty, inequality, and living costs, calling the increase for leaders inappropriate when many households face hardship. The union urged Ramaphosa and parliament to reverse the 3.5% salary adjustment.
Why it mattersMillions of South Africans face unemployment and poverty while public office-bearers receive salary increases.