KARACHI: In a recent press conference, Shah Bano, a senior officer of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the High Power Board. She emphasized that the stay order she obtained against the board does not harm anyone. According to Bano, the board has already been dissolved, and a new board will be formed only when the Prime Minister issues an order.
Bano highlighted that lower-ranking officers are currently enjoying benefits and performing significant tasks for which they are not qualified. She argued that the stay order prevents the promotion of a “dubious team” to senior grades, which would legitimize their past illegal activities. She pointed out that if a Grade 19 officer is currently occupying a Grade 20 position, they are unlawfully exercising Grade 20 powers. By promoting such officers, their actions would be deemed legal, undermining the purpose of her stay order.
Bano clarified that her actions are not driven by personal gain or career advancement but are in the best interest of Pakistan. She claimed that hundreds of officers have been sidelined to make way for junior officers favored by the authorities. These junior officers are now being promoted to senior positions to cover up their questionable deeds.
The press conference shed light on the internal struggles within the FBR and raised concerns about the integrity of the promotion process. Bano’s statements have sparked a debate on the need for transparency and accountability in the appointment and promotion of government officials.