KARACHI: In a bold move to overhaul the bureaucratic system, the government led by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has initiated a comprehensive filtering process of civil officers. The reform categorizes officers into three distinct groups, aiming to enhance efficiency and integrity within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other groups.
The restructuring has resulted in several FBR officers being reassigned to the Admin Pool, removed from their previous sensitive positions. These individuals face potential dismissal should investigations confirm any corrupt activities.
At the helm of this rigorous campaign is Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, who has reportedly mobilized military resources to expedite the process. The military’s involvement underscores the government’s commitment to a swift and effective implementation of these reforms.
Approximately 900 IRS and PCS officers of BS-20 and BS-19 ranks within the FBR are subjected to this initiative. They are being sorted into categories A, B, and C based on evaluations conducted by intelligence agencies. Officers in Category A are slated for important and strategic roles, while those in Category B will occupy mid-level positions and undergo a six-month observation period.
Category C officers, meanwhile, find themselves sidelined (OSD) as thorough inquiries into allegations of corruption and other criminal activities are launched. This scrutiny extends to an assessment of their personal assets, bank accounts, and even the financial dealings of their family members, with the possibility of service termination looming over those found guilty.
Intelligence reports on these officers are being submitted directly to the Prime Minister, who then issues directives for transfers and postings from the PM House. This top-down approach reflects the seriousness with which the government is pursuing these reforms. The categorization is being classified to avoid any undue influence by the corrupt officers.
Following the FBR, similar measures are expected to be rolled out across other sectors, including the Police and the District Management Group (DMG), as part of a larger strategy to revamp the country’s administrative framework.
This initiative marks a significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to combat corruption and promote a merit-based system, signaling a new era of accountability and transparency in governance.