In February 2016, Zuma increased the salaries of political office bearers across the country by 4.4%, with a few exceptions.
The increase was below the 5% suggested by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers, due to the current economic climate.
In March, National Assembly then approved a 5% salary hike for the president, taking his annual salary to R2.87 million per year.
As many as 172 MPs voted in favour of the increase, while 81 voted against, and two abstentions were recorded.
President Zuma is one of the best-paid global leaders despite the country’s declining economic performance under his leadership. His earnings are on par with many leaders from developed and economically-thriving countries.
Research released by stats SA in March showed that the average monthly earnings in South Africa in the formal sector amounted to R17,517 – or R210,204 per year – with the president earning just less than 14 times the average South African employee.
The following infographic details the salaries of various public servants:
