South Africa’s Ministry of Finance has made history by appointing Ms. Yanga Mputa as the nation’s first female Tax Ombud. This momentous appointment, effective from July 1, 2023, marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s tax administration system.
Ms. Mputa’s Impressive Career
Ms. Mputa will succeed Professor Thabo Legwaila, who held the interim position from October 2022 until the end of Judge Bernard Ngoepe’s tenure on September 30, 2023. Ms. Mputa is an Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her journey in the tax administration arena began in 2009 when she joined the South African Revenue Service (SARS) as a Tax Specialist.
In 2014, Ms. Mputa took the position of Chief Director: Legal Tax Design at the National Treasury. She played a significant role in developing annual tax legislation, designing and drafting tax legislation and negotiating tax treaties. She also worked closely with Parliament’s two finance committees, National Treasury, and SARS colleagues.
Ms. Mputa’s Educational Background
Ms. Mputa’s impressive educational background includes a BProc and LLB degrees from the former University of Transkei, an LLM degree from the University of Witwatersrand, an MCom in International Tax from North-West University (Potchefstroom), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Tax Law from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Minister’s Gratitude and Expectations
Minister Godongwana expressed gratitude to Judge Ngoepe for his exceptional leadership in establishing the Office of the Tax Ombud and improving South Africa’s tax administration system. He also thanked Professor Legwaila for acting in the role from October 6, 2022, to April 6, 2023, and wished him well in his return to his position as CEO of the Office of the Tax Ombud.
The Minister urged the incoming Tax Ombud to act in the public interest and ensure fair treatment for all taxpayers by SARS. The Tax Ombud plays a crucial role in fostering fairness, accountability, and transparency in the tax system by mediating between taxpayers and the tax authority as an independent and impartial arbitrator.
Ms. Mputa’s Role in Promoting Public Trust in the Tax System
Minister Godongwana believes that the Tax Ombud’s accessibility to both individuals and businesses significantly contributes to maintaining public trust in the tax system, a trust that cannot be taken for granted. The Office of the Tax Ombud promotes compliance while safeguarding the rights of taxpayers, supporting the government’s goal of equitable and efficient tax administration.
The Minister expressed full confidence in Ms. Mputa’s ability to take on this challenge and continue the excellent work already achieved by the Tax Ombud. Despite her departure from the National Treasury, the Minister is optimistic that her new role will further strengthen South Africa’s tax administration system.
Ms. Yanga Mputa’s appointment as South Africa’s first female Tax Ombud is a significant milestone in the country’s tax administration system. Her vast experience and commitment to transparency and fairness will undoubtedly guide her towards making a lasting impact in this crucial role.
