IMF Objection Over Secret Assets of Lawmakers Raises Transparency Concerns in Pakistan
The IMF assets secrecy objection has sparked debate about transparency in Pakistan. The International Monetary Fund raised concerns about a proposed legal amendment. This amendment would limit public access to lawmakers’ asset declarations. Officials said the IMF asked Pakistan’s Law Division to present a clear position. Transparency in public office remains a key concern for the global lender. However, Pakistani authorities say the government has not backed the proposal so far.
Election Commission Stresses Transparency
According to officials, the Election Commission informed the IMF that it will not compromise on transparency. Public disclosure of assets helps maintain trust in democratic institutions. Therefore, the commission supports open access to lawmakers’ financial information. Officials believe this approach strengthens accountability. In addition, the Law Division clarified that the proposal came from private members of parliament. It was not introduced by the government.
Background of the Proposed Amendment
The amendment aimed to restrict the public disclosure of lawmakers’ assets and liabilities. Members of the National Assembly approved it earlier with support from lawmakers of the Pakistan Muslim League (N).
However, the bill has not yet become law. The Senate still needs to vote on it before final approval. For example, two lawmakers from the Pakistan Peoples Party presented the bill in May last year. The amendment proposed changes to Section 138 of the Elections Act 2017. Under the proposal, authorities would decide the disclosure limits through an official government gazette.
IMF Also Reviews NAB Appointment Rules
Meanwhile, the IMF also discussed recent changes to the National Accountability Ordinance. These amendments relate to the tenure of the National Accountability Bureau chairman. President Asif Ali Zardari recently approved the NAB Amendment Bill 2026. As a result, the chairman’s term may extend for three more years. Earlier, the chairman’s tenure was about to expire. Officials explained that a previous government removed the extension clause in 2022. At that time, the IMF supported extensions to ensure policy continuity. However, the institution now emphasizes stronger transparency rules for key appointments. As a result, discussions between Pakistan and the IMF continue. Both sides aim to strengthen governance and accountability.
