Islamabad (HRNW)– The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted alarming levels of corruption in Pakistan, estimating Rs 5,300 billion siphoned off over the past two years, primarily based on NAB recovery data. Experts warn that the actual scale of corruption could be significantly higher, exacerbated by weak accountability mechanisms.
The report officially validates long-standing public concerns, noting that the influence of the elite over policymaking continues to deepen economic inequality, benefiting only a select few. Finance Advisor Mazammil Aslam stated that the study also reveals a sharp decline in public trust, particularly in the judiciary and state institutions, warning that weakening confidence undermines the very foundation of a strong state.
IMF identified nearly 15 institutional weaknesses, including in the State Bank, CCP, judiciary, and other legal departments, highlighting systemic issues that must be addressed before meaningful reforms can occur. The report also criticized the FBR’s internal operations, noting excessive powers granted to officers, poor internal controls, and an ineffective HR system.
Advisor Aslam emphasized that corruption often originates at the budgetary stage, with funds misallocated for political popularity or unnecessary schemes. He further noted that NAB and FIA performance remains limited, primarily targeting minor cases while large-scale corruption involving billions of rupees largely goes unpunished.
The IMF report underscores the urgent need for transparency, merit-based appointments, judicial reform, and effective anti-corruption measures. Advisor Aslam demanded that the government provide a detailed explanation on Rs 5,300 billion corruption, the 26th Amendment, judiciary functioning, anti-corruption agencies’ performance, and non-merit-based government appointments.
