Amidst widespread protests against the surge in electricity bills, Pakistan has reportedly reached out to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) seeking relief for consumers. According to sources, Caretaker Minister for Finance, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, engaged in discussions with IMF resident representative Esther Pérez Ruiz over the matter.
Sources within the finance ministry revealed that the minister conveyed Pakistan’s plea for relief in electricity bills to the IMF. The recent increase in electricity bills has led to public outcry, prompting the government to explore potential solutions.
The proposed relief measures for electricity bill consumers were shared with the IMF during these discussions. The government’s perspective on the situation was presented, and the IMF has requested a formal, written plan outlining the proposed relief measures.
A ministry insider stated, "A written relief plan will be delivered to the IMF this evening.”
The caretaker federal cabinet, in response to mounting public pressure and protests, made the decision to collaborate with the IMF on providing relief in electricity bills. Caretaker Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi, confirmed that the caretaker finance minister, Shamshad Akhtar, is in communication with the IMF to address the concerns of power consumers.
Solangi emphasized that the caretaker government is working to align its decisions with the guidance of the IMF. He assured that a resolution on electricity bills will be formulated in the coming hours, taking into consideration the input from the IMF.
The ongoing protests across Pakistan reflect citizens’ frustration with the surging electricity bills and a call for government intervention. The protestors are not only seeking relief from the inflated bills but are also demanding the cessation of free electricity provisions to government officials, electricity company staff, and Wapda personnel.
As the government engages with the IMF to address the electricity bill crisis, the public’s hope for relief remains strong, and the authorities’ response is eagerly anticipated.
