ISLAMABAD — In an exclusive interview with Pakistan Observer, Honourable Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah reaffirmed his office’s unwavering mission to provide swift, transparent, and cost-free justice to taxpayers whom he described as the backbone of the national economy.
Dr. Jah revealed that under his leadership, the FTO Secretariat has successfully resolved 44,370 complaints out of 50,904 filed during his tenure, surpassing the total disposals made over the past two decades combined. He credited this achievement to structural reforms such as the fast-track complaint disposal mechanism, which aims to conclude cases within 30–34 days.
Notably, 98% of FTO decisions have been upheld on appeal, a testament to the credibility and fairness of the process. Dr. Jah emphasized his office’s zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and maladministration by Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) officials and called for simplified tax procedures to reduce harassment and refund delays.
He also highlighted the FTO’s role in supporting a business-friendly environment, essential for investor confidence and national growth. To expand reach and impact, Dr. Jah is promoting virtual hearings, setting up regional offices, and launching awareness campaigns to educate citizens and traders about their rights under the FTO Ordinance, 2000.
The interview underscored the FTO’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and respect for taxpayer dignity, reflecting a vision of inclusive and effective governance in Pakistan’s tax administration.
