Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Zafar Hijazi said on Sunday the office remains committed to address the maladministration within tax authorities, the misuse of powers, and the protection of taxpayers.
The FTO issued a clarification over the matter concerning the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) being directed to frame an administrative protocol for implementing recommendations.
Federal Tax Ombudsman Zafar Hijazi said: "The fundamental requirement of the rule of law is that every institution functions strictly within its lawful authority."
In its statement, the Ombudsman’s office said the historic decision is expected to guide the conduct of legal and administrative bodies for years to come. The statement added that no institution may exceed the powers clearly granted to it under law.
It was maintained that the hearing of public interest litigation lies within the jurisdiction of superior constitutional courts, while individual complaints of taxpayers fall within the remit of the Federal Tax Ombudsman.
Tax disputes, it added, are primarily related to specific individuals. The office maintained that it holds full authority to investigate matters referred by higher courts.
The statement added that the Federal Tax Ombudsman will continue to exercise its authority in full conformity with the law. The decision is expected to serve as an important precedent regarding the constitutional limits of the institution.
Moreover, the Federal Tax Ombudsman has directed the FBR to ensure that taxpayers’ financial records and confidential tax information are not disclosed to any unauthorised person. The directive was issued in response to a review petition filed by taxpayers.
