New FBR chairman appointment ignites controversy for overlooking senior officials

ISLAMABAD: The appointment of Rashid Mahmood as the new chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has ignited controversy, with significant dissatisfaction expressed regarding the decision.

Critics argue that several senior FBR officers were bypassed in favour of Mahmood, highlighting concerns about the appointment process.

Sources reveal that 24 field officers and 6 headquarters officers, all senior to Mahmood, were overlooked. This raises questions about the seniority-based criteria traditionally used for such high-ranking positions, which appears to be absent in this instance.

This is not the first time seniority has been overlooked in FBR appointments. Previous chairs, including Amjad Zubair Tawana, Asim Ahmed, and Muhammad Ashfaq Ahmed, were also appointed despite the presence of more senior candidates.

The timing of this appointment is particularly critical as the government faces a daunting tax target of Rs12.31 trillion for the upcoming 11 months. A shortfall of even a month or two could severely impact the ability to meet this ambitious goal.

The new chairman will be tasked with several formidable challenges, including meeting rigorous revenue collection targets and advancing the digitisation of the FBR system.

Engaging with global institutions, expanding the tax net, and integrating more businesses into the tax system will be essential to his success.

It is anticipated that the appointment of Mahmood may lead to changes within the FBR board and staff, as the new chairman begins his tenure.

Read next: FBR targets 20 million new taxpayers by 2029