Time to move forward with pure hearts for tax system reform
The latest press release from the Ministry of Finance has been issued to clarify its position and address the ongoing debacle. This is a positive step towards a solution.
We hope for a return to normalcy in the system while discussions on reforms are conducted, articulated, agreed upon, and implemented.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. We also expect a sustainable reform process to create a professional and fair tax system in the country and potentially set standards or offer lessons for an open, transparent, participatory, accountable, and sustainable reform process that can be scaled up.
Moving forward, my humble proposal is to take the following actions:
First, high-level government officials should meet in person with officials from the National Board of Revenue (NBR). In Bangladesh, we value personal connections, which can help ensure a collaborative atmosphere.
Second, there should be a joint agreement on an action plan to revise the relevant ordinance. This process should begin with an announced starting date. A clear methodology and timeline should be outlined, along with the identification of potential stakeholders to be involved.
Third, it is crucial to clearly identify the 'other important stakeholders' and include business leaders, experts, and political figures.
Fourth, it is also critical to ensure that the process remains open and transparent. This is not about deal-making but about establishing a professional, efficient, and accountable tax system.
The NBR debacle has negatively impacted the economy, and we do not want further disruption of economic activities.
NBR officials have withdrawn the 'strike' and shown a willingness to engage in negotiations and collaborate to advance these reforms.
It is time to move forward with pure hearts so that we do not face such a situation again in the future. We must recall that this was just the first step towards a broader and much-needed reform programme.
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