Tax ombud wants autonomy

CRITICAL: SEEKS GREATER INDEPENDENCE FROM SARS FOR CREDIBILITY, TAXPAYER RIGHTS

- Amanda Visser

A cornerstone for the credibility of the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is its independence from the South African Revenue Service (Sars).

This is critical for its effectiveness and a major focus of its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan - with the OTO wanting to achieve greater autonomy through governance and legislative changes, said tax ombud Yanga Mputa.

It is crucial that the OTO remains responsive, innovative and dedicated to upholding the rights of taxpayers; a fully independent ombud can advocate effectively for taxpayer rights without conflicts of interest.

“In contrast, an OTO that is embedded within Sars may have limited authority and face challenges in maintaining impartiality and autonomy,” Yanga said in the five-year strategic plan.

“Ensuring independence is critical in fostering better public perception and trust in the OTO, thereby enhancing the OTO’s ability to protect taxpayer rights and ensure fair tax administration.”

Systemic investigations

She also noted that collaboration with stakeholders - such as tax practitioners, recognised controlling bodies and National Treasury - is vital to improve the tax administration system.