Despite R1.27m annual salary, MPs aren't millionaires, claims FF+
The Presidency has recently announced a 2.5% salary bump for various governmental positions in South Africa.
Lester Kiewit interviews Corné Mulder, Freedom Front Plus Chief Whip.
Listen below.
The Presidency has recently announced a 2.5% salary bump for various governmental positions in South Africa, including ministers, deputy ministers, members of parliament, and other legislators.
This increase, effective retroactively from 1 April 2024, is a notable adjustment in compensation.
Breaking down the components of the total annual package:
- A basic salary component constituting 60% of the total, which is pensionable
- Annual allowance of R120 000, integrated into the basic salary, translating to a monthly sum of R10 000. Notably, this allowance doesn't factor into taxable income, hence not reflected in the IRP 5 certificate.
- An employer’s contribution towards pension benefits amounts to 22.5% of the pensionable salary.
- Remainder of the package is designated as a flexible portion.
With this increase, South Africa's governmental figures, often referred to as millionaire ministers, now witness a rise in their annual earnings.
For instance, ministers' annual income climbs to R2.69 million, up from the previous R2.64 million.
Similarly, deputy ministers will see their salaries increase to R2.22 million from R2.16 million.
The deputy president and the Speaker of the National Assembly, along with the chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, will all receive R3.16 million annually.
Even ordinary members of parliament, including permanent delegates of the National Council of Provinces, will now earn R1.27 million annually.
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Mulder highlights a common perception that tarnishes politicians as inherently corrupt, labelling them as rogues and crooks.
While acknowledging the presence of individuals who fit this description, Mulder emphasises the inaccuracy of applying this label to all politicians.
"Let's be honest, politicians in general do not have a very favourable image at the moment."
- Corné Mulder, Chief Whip – Freedom Front Plus
He stresses the significance of understanding that parliament serves as the arena for shaping and passing laws that profoundly impact the lives of all citizens.
To effectively fulfill this responsibility, Mulder argues that the nation requires top-tier individuals, which necessitates offering competitive salaries.
Although Mulder concedes that the initial paycheck may appear lucrative, he underscores the significant deductions that politicians face, which often strip them of their perceived millionaire status.
"It's a good salary, but it's not people that are millionaires, I can assure you."
- Corné Mulder, Chief Whip – Freedom Front Plus
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.