Tarin’s resignation is triumph of growers over national interests
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National interests sacrificed for minor political gains
The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday said resignation of Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin is triumph of cultivators and powerful lobbies over national interests.
It seems that the outgoing finance minister has lost faith in the government to implement economic reforms and take concrete steps for good governance.
Acceptance of resignation proves that rulers are in no mood to address suffering of masses by raising much needed money through proper taxation. It continues to prefer dangerous and humiliating practice of carrying the begging bowl, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President PEW.
He said that Tarin has not only demonstrated courage by tendering resignation but also tried to absolve him from some highly controversial economic decisions of the government.
“Resignation isn’t enough; he should inform nation about all the controversial economic decisions including speedy and silent implementation of rental power projects,” he demanded.
Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that Tarin was visibly frustrated over non-implementation of some promises while government was worried about political cost of imposing taxes on sectors that are enjoying unjustified exemptions and relaxations.
Bringing holy cows like planters, realty tycoons, and professionals into the tax net will remain a dream during current government, he said.
Some individuals would continue to earn billions and pay few thousands in taxes which show their insensitiveness to others. It also proves inefficiency of tax collection mechanism.
The developments are enough to believe that there is no relief for poor in sight who will continue to face challenges like lack of good governance, budget deficits, devaluation of currency, worsening law and order, sliding investment, dwindling confidence, reduced collections, cuts in public sector development funds, and depleting services, he said.
