In an angry letter, President Ramaphosa said South African Revenue Service (SARS) boss Tom Moyane had failed to deal with a major corruption scandal, and had brought the institution into "serious disrepute", weakening its ability to collect taxes in an increasingly cash-strapped nation.

Concern was raised over how Mr Moyane handled the resignation of Jonas Makwakwa - the former head of business and individual tax accused of money laundering - because he failed to immediately report it to the finance minister, the presidency said.

Mr Moyane had earlier insisted he had done nothing wrong and would take the matter to court. President Ramaphosa said he was ready for that.This is a key battle for South Africa’s new leader, as he tries to exert his authority, and deal with the murky legacy of his predecessor, Jacob Zuma.

Mr Zuma was accused of failing to handle his own tax affairs properly, and of seeking to break the independence of the revenue service – allegations he’s denied.