ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s anti-corruption measures remain only partially effective, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned in its latest report of Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment (GCDA), pointing to persistent gaps in institutional capacity, decision-making and accountability.
The IMF report unveiled that the government officials are often reluctant to take key administrative decisions, reflecting low confidence within the bureaucracy.
While Pakistan successfully met Financial Action Task Force (FATF) requirements, the IMF pointed out that implementation of penalties under FATF-related offences has been slow, and convictions in money-laundering cases remain limited.
The report stated that despite several initiatives to reduce public expenditure, the most efforts have not produced major results. It further highlighted that many state institutions lack the capacity required to effectively prevent and address corruption, with numerous government functions still being carried out on a temporary or ad-hoc basis.
The Fund also observed that several officers posted in federal ministries lack expertise in their respective areas, contributing to inefficiencies. It added that the complexities in the tax system underscore broader weaknesses in governance. The IMF stressed the need for stronger performance accountability mechanisms for tax officials to improve compliance and service delivery.
The diagnostic findings reflected the IMF’s continued concern over structural shortcomings that hinder transparency, effective governance and long-term economic reforms in Pakistan.
IMF cannot impose any condition against Pakistan’s interests: FM Aurangzeb
