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The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has slammed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent decision to grant a 3.8% pay rise to top political office-bearers. The federation calls the move “insensitive” and “out of touch,” arguing it comes at a time when ordinary South Africans are struggling to make ends meet. The increase affects the salaries of the President, Deputy President, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Members of Executive Councils, and Members of Parliament. Vavi Calls the Pay Rise Scandalous SAFTU Secretary General Zwelinzima Vavi did not mince words, describing the decision as “scandalous” in the context of the country’s ongoing economic hardships. “Millions of South Africans are struggling to put food on the table while politicians approve increases for themselves,” Vavi said. “Between three and seven million workers earn below even the national minimum wage of R5,500, yet the food basket costs between R5,500 and R6,000. This is an insult to working people.” He added that many employed families still go without at least one meal a day, highlighting the stark contrast between political remuneration and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. Prioritising Workers Over Politicians SAFTU argues that giving politicians a pay rise under these conditions undermines government commitments to reduce inequality and ease the cost-of-living crisis. The federation is urging the government to focus instead on improving wages for workers, creating jobs, and expanding social support programs. “These are the issues that would truly make a difference to the lives of South Africans,” Vavi said. “Instead, resources are being directed to those already in positions of power.” No Official Response from the Presidency As of now, the Presidency has not publicly responded to SAFTU’s criticism. The federation’s statements, however, have already sparked debate over government priorities, with many questioning the timing of a salary increase when millions face food insecurity, rising living costs, and high unemployment. For SAFTU and its supporters, the decision is a clear signal that the government’s focus remains skewed toward its own office-bearers rather than the citizens it serves. Public Sentiment Mirrors Union Concerns Social media and public forums have seen widespread discussion of the raise, with many South Africans echoing Vavi’s frustrations. Citizens point to the contrast between political salaries and the struggles of workers across the country, reinforcing SAFTU’s message that job creation and support for ordinary families should take precedence. The debate over political pay rises in South Africa is far from over, and with economic pressures mounting, unions like SAFTU are likely to keep this issue at the forefront of public conversation.