WHILE schemes like the third airport in Islamabad and grandiose plans like running bullet trains are bad enough, the VIP culture, the continuing hike in charges and taxes are bringing people to a breaking point.

A spontaneous reaction may well prove this government’s death knell even as they finish their honeymoon. The new taxation rules allow the FBR access to private bank accounts despite the government’s claims that only very senior officers will be able to do this.

Extortionists and common criminals have gained this facility thanks to corruption within the ranks of the government. This will result in people losing confidence in the banking system.

Now we also have the issue of wealth tax. It is another unfair step which will triple tax on those honest taxpayers who file tax returns. One pays tax on his income and then keeps his savings in the bank which will be taxed. With these savings one buys property which will be again be taxed. Where in the world does such an unjust system exist?

Nawaz Sharif should realise that being elected to the top job does not give him ownership of Pakistan. He must serve the nation.

He should at least take a page out of Mr Zardari’s book who was content to bid his time smoothly, enriching himself and his cohorts without rocking the boat too much.

JAVED KHAN TAREEN
Islamabad