Tshwane, 3 April 2026 — The South African Revenue Service Commissioner (SARS), Mr. Edward Kieswetter, warmly welcomes the appointment of Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the new SARS Commissioner from 1 May 2026, for a period of five years. Dr Makhubu was appointed as a Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement and Operations from 1 May 2023.
The President has appointed Dr Makhubu in terms of section 6 of the South African Revenue Service Act 34 of 1997. This follows the recommendation of the panel of interviewers chaired by former Finance Minister, Mr. Nhlanhla Nene, that unanimously recommended Dr Makhubu as fit and properly qualified to be assigned the role of new Commissioner for SARS.
The appointment of Dr Makhubu is the culmination of the process of succession-planning in line with the Nugent Commission of Inquiry into administration and governance at SARS. The appointment of Dr Makhubu represents continuity and the opportunity to take SARS to a higher level as it deals with new challenges in the highly complex, dynamic, and digital environment.
Commissioner Kieswetter said that “President Ramaphosa could not have tasked a more eminently qualified individual to take over. Dr Makhubu has comprehensive knowledge of SARS and has been intimately involved in developments at SARS. There is no doubt in my mind that this elevation is well earned. I have personally worked with the Commissioner-designate and can confidently say that he will deliver on the important assignment of helping to build a capable state to advance the well-being of all South Africans by collecting all revenue due to the state. Along with the men and women of SARS, we wish Johnstone well as he prepares to take on this significant role as SARS Commissioner.”
Dr Makhubu holds a PhD in Leadership, having completed a Master in Business Leadership, and a Bachelor in Electrical Engineering and Bachelor of Economics.
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