ISLAMABAD – Muhammad Zafar ul Haq Hijazi has been appointed as Federal Tax Ombudsman, a notification confirmed.
The notification issued by Ministry of Law and Justice said Mr. Hijazi’s appointment has been made under the powers granted by the Establishment of the Office of Federal Tax Ombudsman Ordinance, 2000, and the Federal Ombudsman Institutional Reforms Act, 2013.
He will serve in the esteemed office for a term of four years, starting from the date he takes the oath of office. Federal Tax Ombudsman plays a critical role in addressing taxpayers’ grievances, ensuring transparency, and overseeing the fair administration of tax laws across the country.
The government expressed confidence that Hijazi’s extensive experience and professional background will contribute significantly to enhancing the efficiency and integrity of Pakistan’s taxation system.
Zafar ul Haq Hijazi had distinguished career in Pakistan’s corporate and regulatory sectors, notably serving as Commissioner and Chairman of the SECP. He played key role in modernizing Pakistan’s corporate and capital market laws, including the Companies Act 2017 and the Securities Act 2015, and was instrumental in consolidating the country’s stock exchanges into the Pakistan Stock Exchange, helping Pakistan regain Emerging Market status.
His reforms improved corporate governance, market transparency, and compliance with international standards, earning recognition from IOSCO. He also established the Audit Oversight Board, strengthening audit quality and accountability for public interest companies.
