Earlier this week, the South African Revenue Service collected a record R2 trillion in net tax revenue during the 2025/26 financial year.
Makhubu will take over from Kieswetter on May 1.
Kieswetter and his Deputy Makhubo Gave information to the media in Johannesburg on Saturday.
“It is important that there is no overlap of authority and no ambiguity in decision making for the organization and for our stakeholders,” he said.
“Therefore, between now and the handover date, we will use this period to ensure a smooth, orderly and stable transition.”
Kieswetter said Commissioner-designate Makhubu will use this period to deepen his understanding of the organisation, starting with internal engagement with the leadership.
“This approach is deliberate, it preserves momentum, protects the governance and protects institutional integrity.” he explained
Speaking to the media since his appointment, Makhubu vowed that he would pick up where Kieswetter left off.
He said his 14,000 workforce will work hard to achieve revenue collection and curb illegal trade that harms tax collection efforts.
Meanwhile, Kieswetter said it was not yet clear how the treasury would meet the shortfall in revenues due to the fuel levy cut.
Earlier this week, the Treasury announced a temporary R3.00 per liter cut in the general fuel levy until May 5, as part of cushioning the impact of a massive fuel increase in April.
Both grades of petrol increased by more than R3 per litre, while diesel increased by R7 per litre.
National Treasury estimates the move will result in foregone revenue of approximately R6 billion over a one-month period.
“Actually, there are no targets. These are estimates. It's called estimates.”
Because when perceptions change, estimates also have to change.
“The extent to which we can achieve this projection depends on three things. First, whether the economy meets the assumptions. Second is the administrative capacity and capability and the program that SARS sets for itself.
“And third, our social contract, our engagement with the public. These three things, together, produce a real result.” Kieswetter added