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Fikile Mbalula’s Money Trail: Salary, Net Worth, and Scandals in 2025

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1 month ago

July 31, 2025

Chiraag

Fikile Mbalula salary in 2025, South African political figures, Mbalula net worth estimate, Dubai scandal details, Bryanston luxury home, ANC financial controversies, Joburg ETC

Love him or loathe him, Fikile “Razzmatazz” Mbalula remains one of South Africa’s most polarising political figures. From his early days as an ANC Youth League firebrand to Minister of Transport and now ANC Secretary-General (a role he’s held since 2022), Mbalula’s career has been equal parts ambition, controversy, and viral Twitter antics.

But beyond the memes and designer suits, there’s a burning question: How much does the man actually earn, and how did he afford those Dubai holidays?

Let’s dive into his salary history, net worth rumours, and the scandals that just won’t quit.

The Salary Breakdown: From Minister to ANC Boss

1. His Ministerial Pay (Pre-2023)

As Transport Minister from 2019 to 2023, Mbalula earned R2.4 million per year (roughly R258,833 per month), standard for a South African Cabinet minister.

But here’s the twist:

Investigations clouded his earnings: During probes into alleged misuse of public funds, some reports claimed he was paid only a portion of his full salary at times. There’s no formal confirmation, but the speculation stuck.

2. 2025 Reality: ANC Secretary-General Salary

Now, as ANC Secretary-General, Mbalula’s current salary is not publicly disclosed. Unlike Cabinet ministers, party officials are not required to declare income or assets. Here’s what we know:

His current pay is likely less than his former ministerial salary, but party-funded perks such as travel and allowances may balance things out.
Side gigs? With over 3.1 million followers on X (formerly Twitter), Mbalula’s social media presence, speaking engagements, and advisory appearances likely bring in extra income.

Net Worth: The R94 Million Question

Mbalula’s net worth is estimated in some circles at R93.9 million. But how reliable is that number?

There is no official disclosure confirming this figure.
He owns a luxury home in Bryanston, reportedly purchased in 2018 for around R8 million.
His love for designer fashion, international travel, and first-class living is well-documented on social media.

The Bottom Line

Is he a multimillionaire? Probably.
Is the R94 million figure credible without public records? Not really.

Scandals: The Unresolved Drama

1. The Infamous Dubai Holiday (2017)

Mbalula was accused of using R680,000 in public funds to fly his family to Dubai.
The Public Protector flagged it as “unlawful” in 2019.
However, a 2021 court ruling overturned the finding, citing procedural irregularities.
In 2025, the case is closed legally, but not in public opinion.

2. The “Minister of Maldives” Meme Legacy

In 2023, after posting pics from a Maldives vacation, Mbalula trended again under the nickname “Minister of Maldives.” His response?
“I work hard, I play hard.”

Classic Razzmatazz.

3. ANC Internal Skepticism

Despite murmurs from inside the party questioning his spending habits, no new charges or formal disciplinary action have emerged. The ANC leadership has stood by him, at least publicly.

Why Mbalula’s Money Matters in 2025

South Africans are more tuned in than ever to political accountability and transparency. Since 2023, the ANC no longer requires public asset declarations for top officials, sparking outrage from civil society.

In a country grappling with power cuts, unemployment, and inequality, Mbalula’s financial opacity continues to raise eyebrows.