SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter Begins Exit Talks as End of Term Approaches

South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has entered discussions regarding his departure from the organisation, with preparations now underway for a leadership transition once his current term concludes. Kieswetter was first appointed to head the revenue service in 2019. In 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his tenure by an additional two years.

This decision came before the completion of his original five-year term and was widely viewed as a vote of confidence in his leadership. At the time of his appointment, Kieswetter faced the challenge of rebuilding public trust and organisational capacity at SARS, following a turbulent period marked by serious institutional decline.

His predecessor, Tom Moyane, presided over an era often associated with the weakening of the institution during the height of State Capture. During that time, SARS experienced significant operational setbacks, a loss of skilled professionals, and declining morale among staff.Under Kieswetter’s leadership, SARS has seen notable improvements in revenue collection and governance.

His tenure has been defined by efforts to restore efficiency, transparency and public credibility. A strong emphasis was placed on modernising operations and improving compliance levels across sectors.

One of the major achievements during Kieswetter’s time in office was the recovery of billions in unpaid taxes, with the agency reporting collection figures that surpassed expectations in several financial years.

He has consistently attributed these outcomes to the commitment of SARS employees, as well as the strategic use of data and technology.Despite these successes, the path forward remains complex.

The process of identifying a successor who can maintain the momentum of reform will be closely watched by stakeholders both within government and in the broader financial sector. Ensuring that the transition is managed carefully is seen as critical for sustaining investor confidence and tax compliance.

The National Treasury and the Presidency are expected to play key roles in shaping the next phase of leadership at SARS.

While no official announcement has been made regarding potential candidates, the internal planning suggests that the leadership change is being treated with significant consideration.Kieswetter has not publicly commented in detail on his plans following his departure, but sources close to the matter suggest he is committed to a smooth handover and continued support for the institution during the transition period.

With the end of his extended term approaching, the focus now shifts to how SARS will navigate this leadership change while maintaining its recent progress in restoring the integrity and capability of the national tax authority.