SARS Moves To Recover R8.3m Tax Debt From Former SAFA Vice-President

Former South African Football Association (SAFA) vice-president Ria Ledwaba is facing possible asset seizure after the South African Revenue Service (SARS) demanded payment of more than R8.3 million in outstanding tax liabilities.

In a final demand dated October 7 and filed in court on November 2, the revenue authority warned that it could pursue legal action if Ledwaba failed to settle the amount or make acceptable payment arrangements within 10 business days.

The notice outlines the possibility of a civil judgment being obtained against her. If that happens, a warrant of execution could be issued, allowing the sheriff to attach and sell her assets to recover the outstanding money.

However, the demand does not mean that a judgment has already been granted or that any of her property has been seized.

Ledwaba, when approached for comment, referred the matter to her accountant, Mahier Tayob, who confirmed that they were working towards an arrangement with SARS.

Tayob disclosed that they intended to submit an application under Section 200 of the Tax Administration Act, which allows taxpayers to seek a compromise of their outstanding tax debt under certain conditions.

“We are in the process of filing a section 200 application (compromise) to Sars and will simultaneously record a suspension of payment,” he said.

He explained that the objection process had already been exhausted, with no active objection or appeal remaining. According to him, this was necessary for Ledwaba to pursue the proposed compromise process.

“We are hopeful that this matter will be resolved,” he added.

The tax authority’s demand indicates that its records show Ledwaba failed to meet her tax obligations for one or more tax years or periods. An accompanying certified statement reportedly lists personal income tax and administrative penalties among the outstanding liabilities.

SARS spokesperson Siphithi Sibeko declined to discuss the matter, citing the legal obligation to protect confidential taxpayer information.

“I am prohibited by law from divulging confidential taxpayer information, so Sars will not be commenting on your questions,” he stated.

Ledwaba is a well-known figure in South African football administration. Her journey began in grassroots football in Seshego, Limpopo, where she was involved with Seshego Naughty Boys before establishing Ria Stars.

The club became a prominent team in Limpopo and featured players including former Kaizer Chiefs footballers Frank Makua and the late Thabang Lebese.

In 2002, she sold Ria Stars to the Premier Soccer League as part of a restructuring exercise. The PSL also acquired Qwa Qwa Stars, with each club reportedly receiving R8 million.

She later served on the PSL executive committee before making history in June 2018 as the first woman elected SAFA vice-president, securing 28 of the 29 votes cast.

Source: https://x.com/timeslive/status/2119460871898337425?s=46

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