SCBA and IMF Discuss Strategies to Combat Corruption and Promote Good Governance

ISLAMABAD – In a significant move to address governance challenges and promote transparency, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation met with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi to discuss strategies to combat corruption and strengthen judicial reforms.

The meetings, held as part of the IMF’s Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment (GCDA) under the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), focused on identifying vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s governance framework and recommending measures to enhance institutional integrity and accountability.

SCBA-IMF Meeting Highlights Judicial Shortcomings
During the meeting with the SCBA, led by President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta, the delegation highlighted critical issues within Pakistan’s judicial system, including a shortage of judges, inefficiencies, and the need for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to reduce court backlogs.

Rauf Atta emphasized the importance of eradicating financial crimes to boost the economy and reiterated the SCBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, the Constitution, and the independence of the judiciary. He also noted that the Supreme Judicial Council oversees complaints against judges, ensuring accountability within the judicial hierarchy.

IMF’s Focus on Governance Reforms
The IMF’s GCDA team is examining six key governance-related sectors and institutions in Pakistan. The assessment aims to provide actionable recommendations to address corruption vulnerabilities, strengthen governance, and promote sustainable economic growth.

CJP Briefs IMF on Judicial Reforms
In a separate meeting, CJP Yahya Afridi briefed the IMF delegation on ongoing judicial reforms, including senior-level judicial appointments, judicial accountability, and the restructuring of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP). He assured the delegation of the judiciary’s independence and highlighted efforts to protect property rights and attract foreign investment.

The CJP also revealed plans to form special benches in high courts to expedite hearings and explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance judicial efficiency. He emphasized transparency in the IMF delegation’s visit, stating that the public has the right to know the facts.

Collaboration for a Transparent Future
Both the SCBA and IMF expressed gratitude for the productive discussions and a desire for continued collaboration. The partnership underscores Pakistan’s commitment to addressing governance challenges, combating corruption, and fostering economic growth through structural reforms.

As the GCDA report is finalized, its recommendations are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s governance and judicial landscape, paving the way for a more transparent and accountable future.