IMF vs. Government
The issue of fiscal consolidation It has been one of those weeks. Ethiopian monetary and fiscal authorities are kept on their toes 'defending' the outcome of their policies and what they have in-store for the current budget year. Yes, it is time for receiving their report card; perhaps one of the most influential reports about country's overall economic standing. By one of the most influential international institution namely the International Monetary Fund (IMF). A well-established practice by now, a team of IMF experts pay a visit to countries like Ethiopia, countries receiving their financial assistance, to see how the economy is managed. The visits and the subsequent staff report are all done under what is dubbed the Article IV consultations between the IMF and respective nations. For many, the routine is more than consultation to say the least. It is an epic showdown where experts and authorities from both side get to test their intellectual and professio