Imran Khan Seeks IMF’s Assurance for Timely Elections in Pakistan

The Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, has reportedly requested assurance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concerning the punctuality of the forthcoming general elections in Pakistan. The disclosure comes from insiders privy to recent interactions between Khan and the IMF.

Khan’s request came during a meeting with an IMF delegation in Lahore. The meeting was set in anticipation of the IMF executive board’s review and potential approval of a Standby Arrangement (SBA) for Pakistan. The SBA is a crucial part of the country’s recently announced $3 billion bailout programme.

Esther Perez Ruiz, the IMF’s resident representative, affirmed that the meetings with political parties aimed to solicit their support for the key policies and objectives under the new IMF-supported programme. This is particularly significant in light of the rapidly approaching national elections.

IMF’s Response and PTI’s Stance

Despite Khan’s inquiries about guarantees for timely elections, the IMF representatives maintained that while they closely monitor the situation in the country, their influence over internal political matters is limited. They assured, however, that the short-term bailout package was designed so that the transition of power should occur as expected.

The IMF officials expressed optimism that the interim setup would uphold the constitutional mandate to conduct general elections within the prescribed timeframe. Following the meeting, the PTI approved the IMF’s deal with Pakistan, emphasizing its significance in maintaining macroeconomic stability through external financing and sound policies. This is particularly crucial in the period leading up to the fall elections and the subsequent formation of a new government.

Hammad Azhar, a PTI leader, noted that their discussions centred on the staff-level agreement the IMF reached with the government for the 9-month $3 billion SBA. He highlighted the PTI’s support for the overall objectives and key policies. Furthermore, he stressed the need for measures to safeguard lower-income segments of the population from soaring inflation.

Azhar articulated that the PTI views political stability and the rule of law as fundamental to Pakistan’s economic stability. After free, fair, and timely elections, as mandated by the Constitution, he expects that a new government will initiate reforms and engage with multilateral institutions for the nation’s economic transformation and inclusive growth.

The IMF executive board’s review of the SBA for Pakistan is scheduled for July 12.