Tag: David Ansara

We have announced 16 May 2025 as this year’s Tax Freedom Day: the moment when hardworking South Africans finally stop toiling to pay their taxes, and start earning for themselves. We have marked this day since 1997 to shine a light on the tax burden shouldered by ordinary taxpayers. Tax Freedom Day on 16 May means that the average South African has laboured 136 days – over a third of the year – to fund government spending.

South Africa’s long march away from economic freedom continues in 2023, Economic Freedom of the World (EFW) index reveals. The 2023 Economic Freedom of the World annual report reveals that South Africa has dropped to 94th, down one place from its ranking of 93rd last year, out of the 165 countries analysed.

Standard Bank CEO Sim Tshabalala recently suggested that Eskom should consider hiring an international candidate to succeed its outgoing CEO, André de Ruyter. Although Mr. Tshabalala is trying to be helpful, his suggestion misses the mark. A foreign appointee – no matter how capable or qualified – will not be able to fix the mess at Eskom. Another South African in the post won’t succeed either.

In January 2023, I will be joining one of South Africa’s leading think tanks, the Free Market Foundation (FMF), as its new Chief Executive. It will be an honour to serve an organisation that has promoted a market economy, the rule of law, and individual rights for nearly half a century. My appointment has led me to reflect on what think tanks are for, and their rapidly changing role in the policy - and political - landscape in South Africa.

Read our exclusive cover story titled WHO WILL WATCH THE WATCHMEN? - THE RELEVANCE & ROLE OF THINK TANKS by David Ansara, Chief Executive (Designate), Free Market Foundation, as well a host of other topical management articles written by professionals, consultants and academics in the December/January 2022/23 edition.