Islamabad, February 14, 2024 – In a commendation of the Federal Tax Ombudsman’s (FTO) commendable efforts, Pakistan’s President Dr. Arif Alvi has lauded the organization for its pivotal role in swiftly addressing taxpayers’ grievances.
The President commended the FTO for its outstanding performance, processing a record-breaking 8,963 cases and disbursing refunds amounting to Rs 17.742 billion in 2023.
President Alvi emphasized the crucial role played by the FTO in delivering free-of-cost and prompt justice to aggrieved taxpayers, underlining the need for further strengthening the institution. He urged the incorporation of the latest technology to ensure seamless service delivery and timely resolution of taxpayers’ complaints, envisioning an improved tax regime for the country. President Alvi acknowledged the FTO’s significant contribution to promoting good governance in Pakistan.
The FTO, under the leadership of Federal Tax Ombudsman Asif Mahmood Jah, achieved an implementation status of 94.07% in 2023, a notable increase from 73.29% the previous year. The organization’s focus on addressing taxpayer grievances has resulted in the efficient resolution of cases and the timely disbursement of refunds by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
In a meeting with President Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Federal Tax Ombudsman Asif Mahmood Jah presented the FTO’s Annual Report 2023, providing insights into the organization’s overall performance and key initiatives. Jah highlighted the expansion of FTO’s outreach through awareness campaigns and the establishment of regional offices across the country. Additionally, the appointment of Honorary Advisors in the USA, Canada, Sweden, UAE, Hong Kong, and the Philippines aims to facilitate overseas Pakistanis.
President Alvi was informed that leading businessmen from various Chambers of Commerce and Industries have been appointed as Honorary Advisors to foster collaboration
between FTO and the business community. To ensure a rapid response to maladministration by tax authorities, a mobile app has been developed, enabling complainants to lodge grievances and check their status using mobile devices. The FTO has also conducted highly informative training sessions to enhance the professional skills and expertise of Ombudsman institutions in the country.
Highlighting the FTO’s role as a quasi-judicial forum, Asif Mahmood Jah reiterated its mandate to diagnose, investigate, and rectify any injustice or maladministration committed by those administering federal tax laws. The FTO aims to enhance overall taxpayer satisfaction and strengthen trust in the system.
The President’s praise comes at a time when the FTO has made significant strides in its efficiency, showcasing a commitment to addressing taxpayer concerns promptly. The organization’s emphasis on leveraging technology and expanding its reach reflects a dedication to continuous improvement in delivering justice and rectifying maladministration in the federal tax system.
As Pakistan looks towards further development in its tax regime, the President’s endorsement serves as a testament to the importance of institutions like the FTO in ensuring fairness and transparency, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the nation.
