Islamabad: Even as Pakistan is reeling under devastation caused by unprecedented floods that has cost the country’s economy a whopping $43 billion, a report by a newspaper Monday said on Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and 25 of his cabinet members have not paid any income tax for the last five years.
The floods left over 1,750 people dead and 20 million people homeless.
It has been estimated that the country needs $43 billion for rebuilding and rehabilitation and the government is looking towards donors and philanthropists to contribute generously for this cause.
However, when it comes to leading by example, the Pakistan government has been found wanting. The ministrers are reportedly yet to declare their assets or submit income tax returns as demanded by the election commission or other authorities concerned.
A report published Monday by The News International says Gilani and his cabinet members have not paid income tax for the last five years.
Gilani has a cabinet with 61 members, including 43 federal ministers and 18 ministers of state. The government also has a number of advisers and special assistants.