PTBP Web Desk
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has dispatched a scoping mission to Pakistan to conduct a Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment (GCDA). This mission, currently in the midst of a busy schedule, is set to meet with authorities from the Judicial Commission and the Supreme Court on February 11, 2025. This meeting is part of a broader initiative to delve into the governance and corruption landscape of Pakistan, aiming to recommend reforms that could foster transparency, strengthen institutional capabilities, and drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
On Monday, the IMF team reviewed several key institutions pivotal in Pakistan’s fight against corruption and financial crimes. They met with officials from the Federal Land Commission, Financial Monitoring Unit, National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Authority, and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). During these sessions, the focus was on understanding the mechanisms in place to combat corruption, prevent money laundering, and tackle terrorist financing.
One of the critical areas highlighted by the IMF was the need for digitization, particularly of land records, to reduce corruption and enhance transparency. The FBR’s efforts towards digitalization, alongside measures to curb smuggling and tax evasion, were also under scrutiny. The discussions included insights into how these digital transformations could serve as effective tools in preventing suspicious transactions and bolstering the legal and fiscal framework of the country.
The scheduled meeting with the Judicial Commission and the Supreme Court of Pakistan is anticipated to shed light on judicial integrity and the procedures for judicial appointments. This engagement is crucial as it touches on the rule of law, one of the six core state functions the IMF mission is examining for corruption vulnerabilities. The delegation will likely be briefed on constitutional and legal matters, aiming to ensure that judicial processes are free from corruption and maintain public trust.
The IMF’s itinerary for Tuesday extends beyond the judiciary, with engagements planned with the Ministry of Climate Change, Housing and Works, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, Auditor General of Pakistan, and revisiting the FBR. This extensive schedule reflects the mission’s intent to assess governance across various sectors of the government, ensuring a holistic approach to curbing corruption.
The GCDA mission is particularly focused on evaluating corruption risks in fiscal governance, central bank operations, market regulation, and the broader rule of law. Through these assessments, the IMF aims to provide Pakistan with actionable insights and recommendations to strengthen institutional integrity, enhance the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures, and promote economic stability.
The three-member IMF scoping mission, which will remain in Pakistan until February 14, is poised to produce a report that will not only highlight vulnerabilities but also propose concrete steps for improvement. This report will be vital for Pakistan in shaping its reform agenda, particularly in areas where governance can directly impact economic performance and public welfare.
