Pakistan’s political crisis will deepen its economic misery

The political unrest that’s engulfed Pakistan since former Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested earlier this week will complicate efforts to secure a financial lifeline from the International Monetary Fund and exacerbate the country’s economic crisis.

Growth has stalled and inflation has soared in the South Asian country of 220 million over the past year. With Pakistan’s rupee sharply depreciating and reserves of foreign currency dwindling, the country has struggled to import essential products like food, leading to deadly stampedes at distribution centers. Fears Pakistan could default on its debt have lurked for months.

Now, as nationwide protests and violent clashes sweep the country following Khan’s dramatic arrest on corruption charges, the country’s ability to secure much-needed financial help has been cast further into doubt. Khan was released on bail Friday, but told CNN he expected to be arrested again.