Business · South Africa
Corruption Claims Hit Johannesburg Master’s Office Services
Moneyweb · 2026/02/17
Summary
The Johannesburg Master’s Office has recently been under serious scrutiny due to claims of corruption and incompetence. Some people report being asked for unofficial payments, often called "cooldrink money," to get their documents and services processed. This means that without paying this extra fee, their work does not get done on time or at all. These allegations have caused frustration and distrust among citizens who rely on the office for important legal and financial matters. The Master’s Office plays a key role in managing estates and wills, so delays and unfair practices can negatively impact many individuals, especially those dealing with estates of deceased loved ones. The government has been urged to investigate these claims and improve the system to ensure fairness and transparency. Meanwhile, many people are left feeling vulnerable and unsure how to access services without paying bribes.
OnABudget takeaway: For consumers and small businesses, these corruption claims mean potential delays and extra unofficial costs when handling estate or legal matters, so it’s important to stay informed and cautious when dealing with the Master’s Office.