Online Debate Erupts as South African Shares Breakdown of Ward Councillor’s Monthly Earnings

A detailed breakdown of a South African ward councillor’s monthly earnings sparked wide discussion online after being shared by Facebook creator Boni Xaba on 17 October 2026. In the clip, Xaba analysed a 2025 payslip belonging to a councillor serving in a non-metropolitan municipality who was elected in 2021. She noted that ward councillors in metro municipalities typically earn higher rates.

The breakdown showed a basic monthly salary of R17,537.69, supplemented by a R3,400 cellphone allowance and a R5,845.90 car allowance, bringing total gross earnings to R26,783.59. Total deductions amounted to R8,260.91—which included R2,473.38 in PAYE tax, a R438.44 party levy, and R5,042.09 toward pension, leaving a final net pay of R18,522.68. The post drew numerous comments from social media users who shared their thoughts on local government compensation and allowances.

@Sandile Xolani Mpanza commented: “But they drive Land Cruisers ukuthi kanjani asazi (how, we don’t know).” @Arshad Cassim noted: “Car allowance is more than double a teacher’s housing allowance.” @Mahlatse Nawi Mohlape wrote: “Don’t forget kickbacks, monies formerly known as cold drink.” @Siphamandla Jali added: “Being a councillor has benefits of corruption; they get a lot of money on top of that salary.” @Lusanda Lusey Mbali asked: “They kill each other for R18k net, and a five-year contract?” @Polaki Mahlase said: “Municipalities don’t pay the same; it depends on the grading of the municipality.”

https://briefly.co.za/people/256510-dont-forget-kickbacks-local-ward-councillors-monthly-salary-breakdown-stuns-mzansi/

KokoMan feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com