Those criticising 'revolutionary tax reforms' should reveal their own details, challenges Abbasi

Published April 7, 2018
Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi unveils the plaque during the groundbreaking ceremony of Yakmach-Kharan Highway. —APP
Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi unveils the plaque during the groundbreaking ceremony of Yakmach-Kharan Highway. —APP

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Saturday said that those criticising the recently announced "revolutionary tax reforms" should first make their own tax details public.

Addressing a public gathering in Kharan after inaugurating Khuzdar-Shahdadkot highway and performing the groundbreaking of Kharan-Yakmach road, the prime minister hoped that people would join the “course of national development by paying taxes and proving their patriotism”.

“There is no room for criticism,” Abbasi said, adding that the critics are basically opposing the government’s initiative of reducing tax rates.

“Previous governments always increased tax rates but it was the PML-N government that reduced the same by more than 50 per cent,” the premier said.

Analysis: An amnesty for all

Abbasi explained that the tax reforms were meant to shift the burden of indirect taxes from the poor to those “who are not paying taxes despite earning millions”.

Talking about his visit to Kabul, the prime minister said that he discussed the Afghan issue with local leaders and told them “no country desires peace in Afghanistan more than Pakistan”.

He hoped that the Afghan side will also show sincerity like Pakistan does, “peace could be restored in the region”.

Abbasi said that democracy would flourish and the country would progress if people elect sincere leadership in the upcoming election.

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....