The search for a new head of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has reached its final stage
Image: Timothy Bernard / Independent Newspapers
The search for a new head of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has reached its final stage, with recommendations submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa for approval.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana revealed this while responding to a parliamentary question from Economic Freedom Fighters MP Omphile Maotwe, who had asked about progress in finding a replacement for the retiring commissioner Edward Kieswetter.
The Minister said the recruitment process for the appointment of the SARS Commissioner has been completed, and the recommendations are now with the President for consideration.
He added that a formal announcement on the new commissioner could be expected by the end of March 2026.
"The recruitment process for the appointment of the SARS Commissioner has been completed, and the recommendations have been submitted to the President for his consideration. The President may make the announcement by the end of March 2026," Godongwana said.
Kieswetter, who has been the head of the revenue service for seven years, is set to vacate office at the end of April. He has also been widely credited for helping to transform SARS into a more efficient and accountable institution, restoring public trust, and strengthening its capacity to collect revenue after years of challenges linked to state capture.
IOL previously reported that Kieswetter got a standing ovation in Parliament when Godongwana delivered his vote of thanks during his Budget Speech last month.
During his speech, Godongwana said that Kieswetter’s unwavering integrity and commitment to operational excellence “is an example to all of us.
“We must take this opportunity. We are saying it in the Budget Speech as well, to thank the commissioner for his contribution in transforming SARS. To understand the kind of work he’s done, you must look at the time when the Commissioner came to SARS, (and) what kind of institution SARS was".
According to reports, SARS Deputy Commissioner Johnstone Makhubu has been tipped by the Minister to take over as the next SARS Commissioner.
Makhubu, who has served as deputy commissioner of taxpayer engagement since 2023, is seen as a strong contender to continue Kieswetter’s work in strengthening the institution.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
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