Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Amjad Zubair Tiwana has requested early retirement from his position. Tiwana, an Inland Revenue Service officer in grade 21, was set to retire in February 2025 but has submitted a two-week notice expressing his desire to step down. Sources close to the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the pace of reforms, including digitalization efforts within the FBR, has not been satisfactory.
Tiwana met with Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema and conveyed his inability to continue leading the FBR. He then formally submitted his resignation to the PM’s Office, requesting the appointment of a successor. FBR officials attempted to persuade Tiwana to reconsider his decision, but he remained firm in his stance.
Despite facing criticism over digitization issues and the bifurcation between IRS and Customs groups, the tax machinery under Tiwana’s leadership generated Rs9,311 billion in revenue last fiscal year, achieving a 30 percent growth amidst a challenging economic environment. Tiwana’s tenure saw significant revenue achievements but was also marked by pressures for increased digitization and structural changes within the organization.
Tiwana requests early retirement
The government is now expected to initiate the process of appointing Tiwana’s successor to continue the essential tax reforms and collection efforts. The chairman managed to retain his position during the caretaker government’s tenure, but his fortunes changed when he allegedly began assigning poor performance grades to his senior colleagues. This grading system led to the removal of some senior tax officers, who were subsequently placed on the list of officers on special duty.
The final straw came when the prime minister, during a visit to the FBR, accused the chairman of withholding information about digital reforms in the customs department. The FBR stated that the chairman will continue to serve until the government appoints his replacement. The government has already initiated a search for a suitable candidate to fill the position.
Tiwana’s unexpected move has stirred conversations within administrative circles, as he has been a significant figure in the FBR. The Prime Minister’s office is yet to issue an official response regarding his request.
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