The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is once again in the spotlight as another key official, Ms. Seema Shakil, a BS-21 officer of Inland Revenue Service, has been granted a 12-day leave.
This development comes amidst ongoing rumors and speculation regarding the leave of FBR Chairman, Syed Shabbar Zaidi.
The official notification issued on Monday confirmed that Ms. Seema Shakil, currently holding the position of Member Operations (IR), would be on leave from January 13, 2020, to January 24, 2020. In her absence, Syed Nadeem Hussain Rizvi, a BS-21 officer of Inland Revenue Service and Member (Taxpayers Audit), FBR (HQ), Islamabad, has been assigned to look after the charge of the post of Member (Inland Revenue Operations) at the Federal Board of Revenue (HQ).
Sources within the FBR have indicated that Ms. Seema Shakil took leave on health grounds. However, this development adds to the intrigue surrounding the FBR, as Chairman Shabbar Zaidi is also currently on leave. The Chairman’s leave, which began on January 6, 2020, is scheduled to end on January 19, 2020.
FBR’s recent statement aimed to dispel any rumors about Chairman Shabbar Zaidi’s leave, asserting that he is on a two-week leave for his annual medical check-up in Karachi and to fulfill some family commitments. The statement also clarified that the Chairman, a key member of the Prime Minister’s economic team, enjoys the full confidence of both the Prime Minister and his Advisor on Finance.
Contrary to speculations, the FBR emphasized that there is no rift within the economic team, and any rumors suggesting otherwise are deemed incorrect. The Chairman is expected to resume office on Monday, and his return will coincide with significant business, including an interaction with all Pakistan traders as part of the Prime Minister’s engagements.
The FBR, as a pivotal institution in Pakistan’s economic landscape, plays a crucial role in revenue generation and tax administration. The recent developments and leave of key officials have led to heightened interest and scrutiny, and stakeholders will be closely monitoring the situation for any further updates. As the FBR navigates through these changes, the economic team’s cohesion and effectiveness will be closely observed, ensuring the stability and smooth functioning of crucial fiscal matters in the country.
