Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has confirmed that a new Commissioner for the South African Revenue Service(Sars) will be appointed soon, signalling the final stage of a leadership transition at the tax authority.
Speaking during the release of preliminary revenue collection results for the 2025/26 financial year, Godongwana said the process to appoint a successor to outgoing commissioner Edward Kieswetter has been finalised and is now awaiting a formal announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The incoming commissioner is expected to assume office from 1 May.
FINAL DECISION AWAITING ANNOUNCEMENT
Godongwana indicated that the decision has already been made at the highest level, although the identity of the new commissioner has not yet been made public.
He sought to reassure both the public and financial markets that there is no uncertainty surrounding the transition, stressing that the process has been handled appropriately and is nearing completion.
SARS RECORDS HISTORIC REVENUE COLLECTION
The leadership change comes as Sars announced a record-breaking performance, surpassing R2 trillion in net revenue collection for the first time.
The tax authority collected R2.010 trillion for the 2025/26 financial year, reflecting an 8.4% increase compared to the previous year. This milestone underscores the institution’s critical role in supporting government finances and maintaining fiscal stability.
PRAISE FOR OUTGOING COMMISSIONER
Godongwana commended Kieswetter for his leadership over the past seven years, crediting him with restoring the credibility and operational efficiency of the institution.
He highlighted the importance of these improvements in supporting South Africa’s broader economic recovery, noting that Sars has undergone significant modernisation during Kieswetter’s tenure.
ACKNOWLEDGING STAFF AND TAXPAYERS
The minister also recognised the contributions of Sars employees, describing their work as vital beyond revenue collection figures. He further expressed appreciation to taxpayers for their continued compliance, emphasising their role in sustaining public finances.
The appointment of a new commissioner is expected to mark the next phase in Sars’ development as it builds on recent gains and strengthens its capacity moving forward.
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