The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) welcomed the appointment of Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the next Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), offering its full support.
The appointment, according to the Presidency follows the unanimous recommendation by a panel convened by the Minister of Finance and marks a widely anticipated leadership transition at SARS.
Makhubu succeeds outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter and will serve a five-year term, starting 1 May 2026.
Universally welcomed
CEO of the SAIT, Professor Keith Engel, says Makhubu’s appointment is universally welcomed within SARS and across the tax profession, saying “as we take note of our support of Dr Makhubu’s appointment, we extend our best wishes to outgoing SARS Commissioner Kieswetter. Much has been accomplished during his tenure, including the full reconstruction of SARS as an entity.”
SAIT noted Makhubu’s stature as a seasoned public and private-sector executive with more than 17 years of senior leadership experience spanning tax administration, finance and organisational management. He has served as SARS Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023 and has been closely involved in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction since 2020.
“His professional background spans multiple industries and operational perspectives, making him well-suited to lead one of South Africa’s most complex and important public institutions,” says Engel.
We take note of the challenges ahead as we appear to have turned the corner in terms of managing the country’s debt while expanding the tax base.
According to Engel, Makhubu is well known to the tax community through his regular engagement with professional bodies and stakeholders.
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“Most notably, he has been a keynote and regular speaker at the South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) Tax Indaba for several years. Makhubu regularly addresses critical issues such as tax debt, compliance trends, SARS modernisation initiatives, and operational enforcement priorities. SAIT and the tax community appreciate his willingness to engage in open and constructive dialogue,” says Engel. “We take note of the challenges ahead as we appear to have turned the corner in terms of managing the country’s debt while expanding the tax base. We are confident that Dr Makhubu is an optimal choice for taking the country forward.”
