Islamabad — The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah, has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to immediately process and refund the due tax of Mr. Fahad A.S. Almezaal, a Kuwaiti diplomat, following an undue delay.
The directive, issued under Complaint No. 5539/INFRML/2025, instructs the Chief Commissioner Inland Revenue, RTO Islamabad, to ensure compliance and submit a report within 30 days.
Dr. Jah reaffirmed his office’s commitment to safeguarding taxpayers’ rights, emphasizing that timely refunds are a fundamental entitlement.
“Refunds are a fundamental right. No taxpayer—whether a Pakistani citizen or a diplomat—should face unnecessary delays. Our mandate is to ensure justice and accountability in tax administration,” he stated.
Mr. Almas Ali Jovindah, Advisor at the FTO and Head of the Diplomatic Grievances Redressal Cell for Tax, underscored that the ombudsman gives priority to grievances from diplomats and foreign missions.
“This order is a clear message that administrative delays will not be tolerated,” Jovindah said.
Welcoming the decision, the Kuwaiti diplomat expressed appreciation for the proactive role of the FTO:
“This strengthens our trust that Pakistan is committed to resolving the legitimate financial concerns of foreign diplomats fairly and promptly.”
The case highlights the FTO’s increasing focus on ensuring transparency, fairness, and efficiency in handling both domestic and international tax grievances.
