27 February 2024 – The South African Revenue Service (SARS) confirms that President Cyril Ramaphosa requested the SARS Commissioner Mr. Edward Kieswetter to stay beyond his current term, which was meant to expire on 30 April 2024. Both parties agreed to the extension of his term as Commissioner for a period of two years.
The decision was premised on the understanding that the extended term will afford SARS the opportunity to further embed the SARS strategic intent and transformation on which the organisation embarked upon in 2019. The country as a whole can attest that measurable progress has been made to position SARS as a credible tax and customs authority that plays a pivotal role in helping government to build a capable state for the social and economic development of all South Africans. Commissioner Kieswetter said that “This effort must be intensified and sustained”.
The term extension also provides the necessary time to continue the existing investment to strengthen the SARS leadership bench and prepare for an orderly leadership transition in the organisation over the next 2 years.
Commissioner Kieswetter said that “I can assure all South Africans that, with your support, SARS will spare no effort and continue to work hard to ensure that the vision of a Smart, modern SARS with unquestionable integrity, admired by all is achieved. SARS remains inspired by the transformative and Higher Purpose of serving all South Africans”.
For further information, please contact SARSMedia@sars.gov.za
