Govt in search of FBR chairman

ISLAMABAD: After FBR Chairman Asim Ahmed has retired, the government is considering whether to appoint a new FBR chairman from the outside or select someone from the fold of the tax machinery.

According to an official summary prepared and forwarded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, three names would be considered for this top position, including Rashid Mahmood Langrial, who belongs to the powerful PAS group, Amjad Zubair Tiwana, who is currently serving as FBR Member IRS Operation at the Board headquarters, and Syed Nadeem Rizvi, Member Administration. Syed Nadeem Rizvi is the senior-most among the list of names forwarded to the PM. Earlier, Faiz Ahmed Chadhar was also considered as a strong contender for this top position.

However, the government has not yet decided whether to appoint someone from outside the FBR or choose someone from within the tax machinery. This was confirmed by a top functionary.

The PDM-led regime would prefer to make this important appointment before completing its tenure within the next few days period.

Asim Ahmed, the outgoing chairman, has completed his tenure and retired after reaching the age of superannuation.