IMF seeks reversal of secrecy clause in MPs’ assets disclosure law

ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Pakistan to reverse a recently introduced secrecy clause in the law governing the disclosure of assets by Members of Parliament (MPs), according to official sources.

The IMF has raised concerns regarding the amendment, which restricts public access to the asset declarations of lawmakers. The Fund has reportedly asked the government to restore transparency by removing the secrecy provision from the law. The clause in question was added to the Members of Parliament (Salaries and Allowances) Act, making the asset details of MPs confidential and inaccessible to the public.

According to officials, the IMF has also inquired about recent changes made to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) law. The Fund’s queries are part of its ongoing engagement with Pakistan on governance and transparency reforms, which are among the conditions for continued financial support.

The secrecy clause was introduced through an amendment passed by parliament, which has drawn criticism from various quarters for reducing transparency in public office. The IMF’s demand reflects its emphasis on open access to information regarding the financial interests of public representatives as a measure to strengthen governance and accountability.

Officials have stated that the government is currently reviewing the IMF’s concerns and is expected to respond as part of the broader discussions on governance reforms. The IMF’s stance is seen as part of its efforts to ensure that Pakistan adheres to international standards of transparency, particularly in the context of its ongoing financial programme with the country.

The issue of asset disclosure by MPs has been a longstanding topic in Pakistan, with calls from civil society and international partners for greater openness. The recent amendment, which made asset declarations confidential, has been viewed as a step back by transparency advocates.