The 5 Billion Rand Question: Can South Africa Afford its Government? In light of the VAT discussions in South Africa and the need for us to find savings across everything that government spends on, I thought it would be interesting to look at the cost associated with our cabinet, parliament, and the perks that befall you when you become an upper-echelon public servant.See, the thing is that South Africa's Government of National Unity (GNU) promised a new era of collaboration, but for all its promises, it arrived with a staggering price tag that raised urgent questions about our national priorities around our most important public. While we citizens grapple with economic pressures, the cost of maintaining the country's political leadership spirals, with initial estimates suggesting well over R1 billion annually is spent solely on ministers, deputy ministers, and their immediate support systems—even before accounting for luxury homes and extensive security details.The significant expenditure extends beyond the executive branch to the legislative arm of government. The Parliament of South Africa itself operates with a substantial budget, estimated at R1.9 billion for the 2022/2023 financial year, covering operations including crucial oversight committeesThe total annual burden on taxpayers for political leadership in South Africa, based on various articles and sources, exceeds R5.28 billion when combiningExecutive Branch: R1.2 billion. Parliament: R1.9 billion. VIP Protection: R2.18 billion.I know, I was also blown away… Are we honestly getting our money’s worth?

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