Ramaphosa sets 3.5% and 4% pay increases for officials

President Cyril Ramaphosa has set salary increases for public office-bearers for the 2026/27 financial year, with most elected and executive officials receiving 3.5% and judges and several other groups receiving 4%. The increases take effect on April 1, 2026, according to the Presidency.

The 3.5% adjustment applies to members of the national executive, Parliament, provincial legislatures, provincial executive councils and the National Council of Provinces, as well as provincial premiers. The 4% increase covers judges, magistrates, traditional leaders, members of the National and Provincial Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, and members of independent constitutional institutions.

The Presidency said Ramaphosa’s determination followed recommendations by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers and took account of South Africa’s economic challenges. The commission is mandated to make annual recommendations on public office-bearers’ salaries, allowances and benefits. Its considerations included fiscal affordability, inflation, wage settlements, the responsibilities of officials and submissions from stakeholders.