President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced salary increases for public office bearers of between 3.8% and 4.1%, depending on the category of position they hold.

In a statement, the Presidency said this follows the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers’ recommendation of a 4.1% salary increment for all public office bearers, regardless of position.

But Ramaphosa says he first considered what impact the Commission’s recommendations would have on the fiscus before deciding to increase the salaries of public office-bearers by category.

The increase of 4.1% applies to judges, magistrates, traditional leaders and members of independent constitutional institutions.

The increase of 3.8% applies to Members of the National Executive, Members of Parliament, members of provincial executive councils and members of provincial legislatures.

This means the salary of Deputy President Paul Mashatile will rise to R3.2 million, while Ministers will earn R2.7 million, and Deputy Ministers R2.2 million.

These increases will take effect from 1 April 2026.

The Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers is constitutionally mandated to make annual recommendations on the salaries, allowances and benefits of public office-bearers.

In doing so, the commission considers factors including affordability, inflation, state resources, public service pay levels, and the roles and responsibilities of those in office.

President Ramaphosa has expressed his appreciation for the diligence and integrity with which the Commission developed its recommendations.