In Conversation with Rev. Kgomotso Modiselle ,Deputy Secretary for Publicity The Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO
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The Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO) views South Africa’s official unemployment rate of 33.7% in the third quarter of 2026 as a disturbing indication of the economy’s continued failure to meet the needs of our people. According to Statistics South Africa, the rate rose by 0.1 percentage point from 33.6% in the second quarter. The number of unemployed people increased by 97,000 to 8.6 million. Although employment increased by 101,000 over the same period, job creation remains insufficient to reduce unemployment. Behind these figures are people and families facing poverty, insecurity and economic exclusion.
AZAPO regards the persistence of mass unemployment as an indictment of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Its economic response has failed to deliver the scale of change needed to address this crisis and restore the dignity of our people. Amid this crisis, President Cyril Ramaphosa has determined salary increases for public office-bearers for the 2026/27 financial year, effective from 1 April 2026.
Political officebearers, including ministers and members of Parliament, will receive 3.5%, while judges, magistrates and traditional leaders will receive 4%. AZAPO condemns the priorities reflected in these increases while millions of our people remain without work.
AZAPO regards the persistence of mass unemployment as an indictment of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Its economic response has failed to deliver the scale of change needed to address this crisis and restore the dignity of our people. Amid this crisis, President Cyril Ramaphosa has determined salary increases for public office-bearers for the 2026/27 financial year, effective from 1 April 2026.
Political officebearers, including ministers and members of Parliament, will receive 3.5%, while judges, magistrates and traditional leaders will receive 4%. AZAPO condemns the priorities reflected in these increases while millions of our people remain without work.
