On the independence of monetary policy, there's been mounting pressure from political circles regarding how central banks set rates. The core issue centers on whether interest rate decisions should be guided by economic assessment or political preference. As one senior policymaker put it: setting rates based on the best judgment of what serves the public interest—rather than following political preferences—comes with real consequences. The question ultimately boils down to whether monetary authorities should maintain their independence in pursuing policy objectives. This tension between institutional autonomy and political influence has deep implications for market stability and long-term economic outcomes.