A technical team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), currently assessing Pakistan’s judicial and regulatory framework under a $7 billion bailout deal, met with Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed on Tuesday. The meeting focused on program implementation and property rights. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Law Farogh Naseem explained that such meetings are considered a routine part of IMF and World Bank activities. The IMF team will remain in Pakistan for a week to conduct a detailed assessment of the judicial and regulatory system. This assessment is aimed at addressing governance and corruption issues under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program.
According to a statement issued by the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed briefed on “efforts to improve judicial efficiency.” He emphasized that “the judiciary in Pakistan is independent, and as its head, it is his responsibility to safeguard its independence.” Chief Justice Ahmed also mentioned that the judiciary is not used for direct interactions with missions. He stated that he will be “very cautious” in his opinions and observations. He shed light on constitutional developments, including the appointment of top-level judges, judicial responsibilities, and the reorganization of Pakistan’s Judicial Commission.
The IMF team praised the role of the judiciary in maintaining “legal and institutional stability” and commended ongoing reforms. Discussions during the meeting focused on the responsibilities of the judiciary and the procedures for addressing complaints against judges. Following the meeting, Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed, while speaking to journalists, mentioned that the six-member IMF delegation had sought details on program implementation and property rights. He stated, “I told the IMF that this is the best time for them to come to Pakistan.” Chief Justice Ahmed also informed the delegation about the national judiciary’s policy and judicial reforms. The delegation expressed interest in protecting foreign investment in the country.
Minister for Law and Justice Farogh Naseem highlighted that governance under the law is an integral part of multilateral transactions with organizations like the IMF, World Bank, and the United Nations. He further emphasized that “judicial autonomy is entirely constitutional.” Pakistan pledged in October to combat corruption with the IMF, support inclusive development, and create an equal playing field for business and investment.
