ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is gearing up to place dozens of senior officials, allegedly involved in corruption, into the Admin Pool. Sources indicate that the FBR has compiled a list of officials from both the Inland Revenue Service and the Pakistan Customs Service, with the notification of their reassignment expected shortly.
The FBR had completed these lists prior to the budget announcement, but the notification was delayed due to the budget preparation activities. This impending shuffle marks the second major reorganization within two months, potentially affecting senior officials up to Grade 20.
Previously, just before Eid, the FBR suspended two officials, a Deputy Collector and an Inspector, for their involvement in improperly processing a refund case valued at over Rs 800 million. This was the second significant refund-related incident leading to the suspension of senior officials.
Earlier, on April 26, 2024, the FBR had executed a substantial reshuffle, transferring nearly all key members, including the Member Inland Revenue (Policy) and the Member Customs (Operations), to the Admin Pool. This reorganization involved the transfer and posting of 22 senior Inland Revenue officials from BS-20 to BS-22, including 13 key members/director generals and two chief commissioners of Inland Revenue.
Additionally, 14 senior Customs officials, from BS-20 to BS-22, were transferred, including the Director-General of Customs (Intelligence). In total, 49 senior tax officials of the FBR were reassigned during this reshuffle.
The FBR’s ongoing crackdown on corruption within its ranks aims to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the organization. This latest move reflects a continued effort to address malpractice and improve governance within Pakistan’s tax administration.
Looking ahead, the FBR’s stringent measures are expected to serve as a deterrent to corruption and mismanagement, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. The anticipated placement of these officials into the Admin Pool underscores the FBR’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards and restoring public confidence in the nation’s tax system.
