By Levy Masiteng
“It is a complete insult to the people of South Africa,” said Mmusi Maimane, reacting sharply to government’s decision to raise the vehicle cost limit for ministers and MECs to R1.1 million.
The Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader has criticised the move, he argued that it reflects a government increasingly disconnected from the daily struggles of ordinary citizens.
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The National Treasury increased the vehicle threshold from R800,000 to R1.1 million, which took effect in July 2025 under the government of national unity, and was confirmed by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in a written parliamentary reply to Bosa MP Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster.
The increase allows members of the executive, including ministers, deputies, premiers, and MECs to purchase more expensive state vehicles.
“You cannot manage what you do not measure, and treasury’s inability to provide a full cost of executive perks undermines any claim to responsible financial management,” Maimane said.
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He warned that such decisions deepen public frustration, particularly as millions face unemployment, rising living costs, and persistent poverty.
He described the move as part of a broader pattern of “excesses” within government, adding that public funds should prioritise essential services rather than political privileges.
He further indicated that BOSA would continue pushing for accountability, including reviewing spending on executive perks and advocating for a leaner, more cost-conscious government.
