In a major step towards enhancing financial transparency and meeting international governance commitments, Federal Board of Revenue has proposed a landmark move to make the assets of civil servants from Grade 17 to Grade 22 publicly accessible. The draft amendment to the Civil Servants’ Assets Declaration Rules fulfills a key requirement set by International Monetary Fund under its governance and transparency agenda.
The proposed changes aim to establish greater accountability within the bureaucracy by allowing public access to asset declarations. According to the draft issued by FBR, the assets of all relevant government officers will be declared and made publicly available, covering their entire period of service from the date of joining to the present day.
The move signifies a notable policy shift in Pakistan’s public service regulations, introducing a level of disclosure that has been long demanded by governance reform advocates and international lenders. By making the financial holdings of senior officers transparent, the government aims to strengthen anti-corruption measures and build public trust in state institutions.
The notification further expands the definition of a “public servant” to include officers serving in federal and provincial governments, autonomous bodies, and corporations. Individuals who fall under the exemption provided in National Accountability Bureau Ordinance 1999 will not be covered by this change.
The FBR has sought feedback, objections, and suggestions from all relevant stakeholders within seven days, stating that submissions after the deadline will not be considered. This consultation period is designed to ensure that any technical or administrative gaps are addressed before the final implementation.
These amendments are being prepared under Section 237 of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, providing a legal foundation for public disclosure of assets. Officials involved in the process stated that this step is aimed at improving verification and data exchange mechanisms to ensure that declarations are accurate and can be effectively audited.
This development aligns with IMF’s broader push for governance reforms, particularly in developing economies where fiscal transparency is critical for unlocking funding and ensuring economic stability. Pakistan’s compliance with these conditions could support its efforts to maintain financial discipline, strengthen public confidence, and attract international investment.
Experts suggest that this policy may also deter illicit financial practices and make the public sector more accountable to citizens. Transparency advocates have welcomed the move but also emphasized the importance of ensuring proper digital infrastructure and safeguards for secure public access to data.
This measure could set a precedent for broader disclosure requirements in the future, making transparency a standard feature of public service in Pakistan.
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