A recent report from Fitch Ratings warned that the outcome of the February 8th polls in Pakistan could create political uncertainty and complicate the country’s efforts to secure financing from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). With a split mandate resulting from the elections, the PPP and PML-N are seeking a power-sharing arrangement in the national and Punjab assemblies, while the PTI has formed an alliance with the Sunni Ittehad Council. Fitch emphasized the importance of a new IMF deal for Pakistan’s credit profile, but also highlighted the challenges and risks associated with securing such an agreement. The rating agency expressed concerns about Pakistan’s external position and urged the government to adhere to policy commitments to ensure economic stability. However, Fitch also noted that Pakistan’s government has a history of poor completion of IMF programs, and warned of the risks of renewed economic and external imbalances if policy reforms are not implemented.