Imran Khans Bold Move: Demands IMF Audit Before Bailout Talks

Jailed former Pakistani PM Imran Khan has sent a letter to the IMF, requesting an audit of 30% of assembly seats before considering further bailout negotiations, citing concerns over electoral rigging.

Pakistan's former prime minister, Imran Khan, who is currently incarcerated, has written a letter to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) urging the organization to ensure an audit of at least 30% of national and provincial assembly seats before considering any further bailout talks with the cash-strapped country.

Clarification on IMF Facility

Khan's letter begins by clarifying that his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), does not oppose IMF assistance to Pakistan. However, he emphasizes that any such facility should be linked with conditions and negotiated by a duly elected government that has the trust of the people.

Concerns over Electoral Fraud

The letter alleges widespread intervention and fraud in the counting of votes and compilation of results during the February 8 general elections, which Khan claims cost the public exchequer Rs50 billion (USD 180 million). He points out that influential countries, including the US, Britain, and members of the European Union, have called for a full and transparent investigation into the matter.

Request for Election Audit

In light of these concerns, Khan urges the IMF to ensure an audit of at least 30% of the national and provincial assemblies' seats, which he believes can be accomplished within two weeks. He suggests that indigenous organizations like the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) and PATTAN-Coalition38 have the necessary methodologies to conduct such an audit.

Previous Assurances and Current Situation

Khan's letter recalls his previous interactions with IMF representatives, during which he had agreed to support IMF financing on the condition of free and fair elections. He asserts that the recent elections fell short of these expectations and that the current government lacks the moral authority to govern and implement taxation measures.

Call for IMF Action

Khan appeals to the IMF to uphold its principles of good governance, transparency, and curbing corrupt practices. He argues that the abuse of power by a few individuals to impose their preferences on the Pakistani populace should not be promoted or upheld by the IMF.

The letter concludes by emphasizing that an audit of election results would serve Pakistan and its people well, potentially leading to enduring prosperity, growth, and macroeconomic stability in the country. Khan stresses that the IMF should give effect to its guidelines on good governance and conditionalities before granting any further financial assistance that would burden the people of Pakistan with additional debt.