Zuma now earns R2,622,561 a year -- up from R2,485,839 last year, and R2,367,466 in 2010.

Last year, the House approved that Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe continue to receive only the pension benefits of a former president, and no salary for his services as deputy president.

However, he would also receive those benefits and privileges necessary to enable him to carry out his functions.

Motlanthe served as president from September 25, 2008 to May 6, 2009.

In terms of the Constitution, the Assembly must approve the president's salary. He, in turn, approves MPs' salaries.

Zuma approved a 5.5 percent salary increase for top public servants in July, following the recommendations of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers.

At the time, commission chairman Judge Willie Seriti said the proposal, which is 0.5 percent higher than last year's, enjoyed the backing of the ministers consulted, notably Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan.

The increase pushed a Cabinet member's pay to just above the R2 million mark.

Premiers would take home R1.88m a year, mayors just over R1m, and Members of Parliament R889,383.

The commission said it based its recommendation on the Consumer Price Index, the economic climate, and market trends in salary increases.