South Africa SARS

SARS Secures High Court Preservation Order Against Former Officials for Corruption

SARS has secured an ex parte preservation order in the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria under section 163 of the Tax Administration Act against two former SARS officials who resigned in 2024 and 2025. The order targets three immovable properties, six vehicles, and multiple bank and investment accounts held across major financial institutions, estimated to be worth several million rand in total. A curator bonis has been appointed to preserve and manage these assets pending the finalisation of tax assessments, with authority to locate further concealed assets.

President Ramaphosa Appoints Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as SARS Commissioner-Designate

President Ramaphosa has appointed Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the new SARS Commissioner-Designate to take over the SARS portfolio from outgoing Commissioner Mr. Edward Kieswetter, effective 1 May 2026. SARS will host an introductory press conference at the SARS Woodmead Office on 4 April 2026 at 10:00, hosted by Commissioner Kieswetter. Journalists seeking further information may contact Ms Mpho Motsemme at 066 247 9668.

Dr Makhubu Appointed SARS Commissioner from 1 May

President Ramaphosa appointed Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as SARS Commissioner from 1 May 2026 for a period of five years, following a recommendation from a panel chaired by former Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene. Dr Makhubu has served as Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since May 2023 and holds a PhD in Leadership, Master in Business Leadership, Bachelor in Electrical Engineering, and Bachelor of Economics. The appointment follows succession-planning aligned with the Nugent Commission of Inquiry into SARS administration and governance.