Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's frustration with SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter was inadvertently captured on a live microphone after a press conference regarding the postponement of the 2025 budget announcement. The incident occurred when Godongwana was discussing Kieswetter's reported advice against tax hikes and his preference for increased investment in SARS.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana was inadvertently caught on a live microphone expressing his frustration towards South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner Edward Kieswetter. This occurred after Godongwana, accompanied by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Finance Director-General Duncan Pieterse, concluded a press conference regarding the unexpected postponement of the 2025 budget announcement.
The delay stemmed from government coalition partners rejecting a proposed two-percentage-point increase in Value-Added Tax (VAT).During the briefing, Godongwana addressed reports that Kieswetter had advised against tax hikes, advocating instead for increased investment in SARS to recover an estimated R800 billion in unpaid taxes. When questioned about whether this recommendation was considered, Godongwana stated that he had spoken with Kieswetter, who claimed his remarks had been misconstrued. 'I called him after seeing the report, and he said, 'No, no, no, I said that weeks ago, but not in the same context,' Godongwana explained, asserting that Kieswetter believed his comments had been misunderstood.The minister emphasized the distinction between their roles, stating, 'He handles tax administration. I handle tax policy. It’s important we each stay in our lanes.' Following the press conference, Pieterse was overheard complimenting Godongwana on his handling of the Kieswetter question, remarking, 'I'm glad you took that question. You answered it better than I would have.' Unaware that the microphones were still active, Godongwana candidly responded, 'I was worried I’d get angry.' Pieterse offered reassurance, but Godongwana continued, expressing, 'He is making me angry. I said we were discussing this… and even now, he comes with this rubbish.' Kieswetter, who was originally scheduled to step down on April 30, 2024, was asked by President Cyril Ramaphosa to extend his tenure by two years.
FINANCE MINISTER ENOCH GODONGWANA SARS COMMISSIONER EDWARD KIESWETTER BUDGET POSTPONEMENT VAT INCREASE TAX HIKE
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
SARS Commissioner Calls for Presidency to Lead Technology Adoption for More Efficient GovernmentEdward Kieswetter, commissioner of the South African Revenue Services (SARS), urges the Presidency to take a more proactive role in leveraging technology for improved government efficiency. He argues that the current siloed structure hinders progress and proposes a unified vision with clear KPIs and a centralized platform for services and data.
Read more »
Court Dismisses Royal AM FC's Urgent Application, SARS Commissioner Welcomes DecisionThe North Gauteng High Court has dismissed Shauwn Mkhize's application seeking assurance of Royal AM FC's financial stability to play in tournaments. Commissioner Kieswetter welcomes the decision, emphasizing the importance of taxpayers meeting their obligations.
Read more »
Mozambique Appoints Former South African High Commissioner as Minister of Foreign AffairsMozambique's President Daniel Chapo has appointed Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas, the former High Commissioner to South Africa, as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation. The appointment has been welcomed by South African officials, who see Lucas's experience in strengthening bilateral relations as a valuable asset.
Read more »
South Africa's Finance Minister Seeks Public Input on 2025 BudgetEnoch Godongwana invites citizens to share their budget suggestions ahead of the February 2025 speech, emphasizing public participation in shaping the nation's financial priorities.
Read more »
Ghana Declares Former Finance Minister a Fugitive Over Corruption AllegationsKen Ofori-Atta, Ghana's former finance minister, has been declared a fugitive by prosecutors due to alleged involvement in multiple corruption cases. He left Ghana to evade investigations and faces efforts to bring him back.
Read more »
Budget 2025: What business wants from the minister of financeWhat business do not want to hear from the minister is that there will be more bailouts for failing SEOs such as Denel and the Post Office.
Read more »