Outgoing politicians who are not returning to parliament after the 2024 elections will receive significant financial benefits, with at least R81 million allocated for loss-of-office gratuities, reports said recently.
According to The Citizen, the payout is due to retirement and the reduction of party seats in the National Assembly, as the ANC’s share of votes dropped to 40%.
Notable figures not returning include Defence Minister Thandi Modise, Public Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet, and International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor, among others.
Zizi Kodwa resigned as the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture after his court appearance for corruption charges.
Former ministers Malusi Gigaba and Dina Pule, both previously involved in corruption scandals, are making unexpected returns, the report said.
These individuals will receive gratuities, pensions, and other perks.
According to parliament’s spokesperson Moloto Mothapo, the loss-of-office benefits will be funded by the National Treasury’s national revenue fund, Sunday Times reported.
“The gratuity is a direct charge against the national revenue fund. The total number [of MPs to be paid] is not yet determined,” the report quoted Mothapo as saying.
Additionally, exiting MPs and ministers will receive a 2.5% salary increase, approved by President Cyril Ramaphosa, effective from April 2024.
New members that are set to join parliament include ActionSA’s Athol Trollip, Build One South Africa’s Mmusi Maimane, the Patriotic Alliance’s Gayton McKenzie, the National Coloured Congress’ Fadiel Adams, and Rise Mzansi’s Songezo Zibi.
Jabulani Khumalo and Duduzile Zuma from the MK Party are also set to be sworn in despite ongoing legal battles, according to the report.
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Published first on African Insider
Also see: 4 Ministers set to exit parliament
