SARS boss Kieswetter denies being director at Ramaphosa company
South African Revenue Service commissioner Edward Kieswetter has denied claims that he assisted President Cyril Ramaphosa with his tax affairs.
Kieswetter has also denied that he held any directorship at any company owned by Ramaphosa.
He also rejected allegations that he assisted Ramaphosa with his personal tax affairs.
The taxman issued a statement on Wednesday following claims made on social media.
“Kieswetter is not and never was a director” of a company owned by Ramaphosa nor did he receive a call from Ramaphosa to assist with his tax affairs,” read the statement.
“The recent allegations are therefore not only incorrect but also mischievous in trying to link fake news about the Commissioner’s alleged directorship to SARS’s obligation to maintain taxpayer confidentiality.”
Ramaphosa’s private affairs have come under intense scrutiny after so-called #FarmGate.
Controversy has surrounded Ramaphosa over the theft of a large amount of foreign currency from his farm in 2020.
The robbery came to light after former Spy boss Arthur Fraser laid a criminal complaint against Ramaphosa, accusing him of kidnapping, bribery, money laundering, and concealing a crime.
It’s alleged that Ramaphosa requested Kieswetter’s assistance.
“The Commissioner did not receive a call from President Ramaphosa as alleged. Moreover, the Commissioner does not involve himself in or deal with any taxpayer matters personally.”
The revenue sevice vowed to exercise its mandate for all tax infringements without fear irrespective of the role and status of any taxpayer.