South Africa’s Top-Earning Civil Servant Earns 3 Times More Than President Ramaphosa
THIS South African Civil Servant Earns Three-Times More Than The President
Did you know that there’s a South African government official who earns three times more than President Cyril Ramaphosa? This makes him the best-paid civil servant in the country. Want to know who it is?
The Highest-Paid Civil Servant in South Africa
While President Ramaphosa is known to donate his government salary to charity, one civil servant is earning much more than the President.
According to Business Tech, the top-earning government official is Edward Kieswetter, the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
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How Much Does Edward Kieswetter Earn?
As SARS Commissioner, Kieswetter’s annual earnings are reportedly around R11.7 million. His impressive income package includes:
- Base Salary: R7.8 million
- Performance Bonus: R3.6 million
- Allowances and Pension Contributions: R2.8 million
Kieswetter’s earnings reflect SARS’ strong performance this year. The SARS annual report reveals that gross revenue collection reached R2.2 trillion, an increase of R87 billion compared to last year.
After distributing R414 billion in refunds, SARS achieved a net revenue of R1.75 trillion, showing a 3.2% growth over the previous fiscal year.
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High Earners in Public Service
The timing of Kieswetter’s salary revelation follows Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s recent mid-term budget speech.
In his address, the minister emphasized that budget cuts are necessary, and not all fiscal areas will receive funding due to economic constraints.
This raised concerns about the high earnings of certain public officials amid South Africa’s rising economic inequality.
Kieswetter isn’t the only top earner in the public sector. Here’s a look at other high-paid officials:
- Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB): Earns R8.8 million.
- Xolile George, CEO of Parliament: Also earns well above President Ramaphosa’s salary of R4.2 million.
The Debate Over High Salaries in Public Service
The high salaries of public officials have sparked debate, especially given South Africa’s current economic challenges, rising unemployment, and the need for budget cuts. Many question the fairness of these salaries, particularly when funds are needed to support other government services.
