Following the passing of former South African Revenue Service (Sars) Commissioner Oupa Magashula, President Cyril Ramaphosa is remembering him as an “astute, compassionate leader who devoted his life to the development of the country’s economy and the stimulation of entrepreneurship among a new business generation”.

Magashula, aged 63 passed away after an extended period of illness and hospitalisation. He held office between 2009 and 2013.

Ramaphosa said Magashula’s mission at Sars was driven by the needs of vulnerable South Africans and the requirements for economic growth.

In his early career, Magashula worked as a trade unionist before joining the corporate sector and then Sars.

Following his Sars tenure, he held various leadership roles in business.

“He led Sars at a critical period during which the economy was affected by the global downturn of 2008 but during which we also relied on fiscal resources to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup,” said Ramaphosa.

He noted that Magashula went on to contribute to growth through his roles as chair or director of diverse businesses that benefited from his “intellect, varied professional experience and commitment” to a better South Africa. 

Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the family and friends of Magashula.

“President Ramaphosa’s thoughts are with the Magashula family, as well as friends and associates of the former Commissioner,” said Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.