In a bold move, the Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to reject nomination papers from non-filers, arguing that individuals evading taxes should not be eligible for representation. PTBA President Anwar Kashif Mumtaz, in a press conference attended by senior office bearers, emphasized the need for financial transparency among election candidates.
Mumtaz urged candidates to disclose detailed tax information, including taxes paid, income, expenses, and assets, on the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) website. Expressing disappointment with the lack of interest from political parties in expanding the tax net, he called for increased accountability in tax payments, government collections, and fund allocation for developmental projects.
Critiquing the enforcement of tax laws by those who flout them, Mumtaz proposed excluding tax evaders from tax collection duties. He vehemently opposed the International Monetary Fund’s suggestion to lower tax slabs for salaried individuals, advocating punitive measures against tax evaders.
In a push for technological advancements, Mumtaz demanded the inclusion of technology experts for meticulous scrutiny of data, aiming to enhance the tax collection process and eliminate corruption. He urged the government to support taxpayers, eliminate evasion, and bridge the gap between taxpayers and non-taxpayers. Focusing on building trust, Mumtaz emphasized the crucial role of the Pakistan Tax Bar in the success of these initiatives.
Addressing the issue of smuggling, Mumtaz called for a zero-tolerance policy, urging comprehensive restrictions on the sale of smuggled goods in the market. The PTBA is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and fair practices in both elections and tax compliance for the betterment of Pakistan’s economic landscape.
 has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to reject nomination papers from non-filers, arguing that individuals evading taxes should not be eligible for representation. PTBA President Anwar Kashif Mumtaz, in a press conference attended by senior office bearers, emphasized the need for financial transparency among election candidates.){kind=link}