IMF Warns Central Banks Must Be Free of Election-Year Political Pressures.

The head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, has warned central banks to resist political pressure to cut borrowing costs and continue the fight against inflation. With over 60 nations holding elections this year, including the US, UK, and India, Georgieva urges policymakers to maintain central bank independence to protect price stability and ensure long-term economic growth. Political interference in central banks' decision-making and personnel appointments is on the rise, posing risks to economies. Georgieva's call comes as some countries, such as the US, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, Poland, and Hungary, face election-related battles and potential challenges to central bank independence. [Extracted from the article]