IMF willing to work with prolonged caretaker setup for SBA programme success

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is reportedly willing to collaborate with a prolonged caretaker government in Pakistan to wrap up the $3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA) programme, offering relief for the country’s economic challenges. 

The ongoing SBA programme, set to conclude around March–April 2024, has garnered support from the IMF for this approach.

Pakistan has informed the IMF about the possibility of extending the caretaker government’s term after the approval of the 7th Population and Housing Census. This change pushes the next elections to the first quarter of 2024 instead of the anticipated 2023 date.

Candidates for crucial ministries, like finance, include Sultana Allana, Dr Ashfaque Hassan Khan, and Tariq Bajwa. For other economic portfolios, Muhammad Mian Soomro and Ijaz Gohar are being considered.

Former FBR chairman Shabbar Zaidi declined a role in the interim setup due to personal reasons.

In scenarios where Jalil Abbas Jilani or Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh become caretaker premiers, potential finance minister candidates shift. 

Outgoing finance minister Ishaq Dar aims for a team member to secure a significant role.

Ultimately, the decision rests on the appointment of the PM’s top official.