R3.1 Million Salary Hikes For Top Officials While EThekwini Services Fail

Statement by Haniff Hoosen – DA eThekwini Mayoral Candidate:

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in eThekwini strongly opposed the proposed increases to the salary limits for the City Manager and Executive Directors at a full Council meeting. The increases will cost the City an additional R3 101 243 per annum, while residents continue to endure a municipal service-delivery crisis.

The ANC-led eThekwini Municipality cannot plead financial constraints when it comes to service delivery while simultaneously asking Council to approve higher remuneration limits for senior officials.

The fact that no increase was granted in 2025 is not, on its own, sufficient justification for an increase in 2026. Before approving any increase, the Municipality must demonstrate that it is affordable, justified and supported by measurable performance and improved outcomes for residents.

Meanwhile, eThekwini residents are battling water interruptions, electricity outages, deteriorating roads, sewer failures, refuse collection challenges and ageing infrastructure, while facing rising living costs and increasing municipal charges.

The DA is not opposed to fair and competitive remuneration for competent officials. However, higher remuneration must be matched by accountability, performance and results. If the Municipality expects residents to fund higher costs, it must first demonstrate that they are receiving value for money.

The DA will continue to demand transparency, accountability and a clear justification for every additional rand residents are being asked to fund. Come the 2026 Local Government Elections, residents have the opportunity to vote for a government that puts service delivery, accountability and value for money first.

The DA is ready to get eThekwini working again.