The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has rejected a proposed 4.1% salary increase for politicians, judges and government officials. The trade union federation said the increase is unfair while ordinary South Africans face higher taxes and rising living costs. It said the proposal could cost the state about R536 million, including pay rises for more than 9,000 municipal councillors, many at failing municipalities. COSATU believes the money should instead be used to hire doctors, nurses, teachers and police.
Sam Busa