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Daily Briefs

Qureshi talks about Kashmir and the India dossier at the OIC


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Qureshi talks about Kashmir and the India dossier at the OIC 
Urges the OIC to work towards outlawing provocation against Muslims

On 27 November, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi asked the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to launch an international campaign for the prohibition of wilful provocation against Muslims and incitement to hate. He said that Islamophobia and hatred towards Muslims were on a sharp rise in the West and elsewhere, adding, “Recent despicable incidents like desecration of the Holy Quran and reprinting of caricatures of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) have seriously hurt the sentiments of over 1.8 billion Muslims around the world.” Further, he proposed designating 15 March as ‘International Day to Combat Islamophobia.’

Qureshi raises the issue of alleged Indian atrocities in Kashmir
Qureshi also appealed to the OIC countries to use their political influence and economic power to prevent India from committing, saying, “We must take cognisance of these crimes lest we see another bloodbath of Indian Muslims,” adding, “It is imperative for the CFM to demand that India rescind its illegal and unilateral actions.” Further, he said, “We have prepared a dossier on India’s state sponsorship of terrorism against Pak­istan and provided incontrovertible proof to the international community. We hope that the OIC collectively, and Muslim countries individually, will play a role in stopping India from following this dangerous course.” (“OIC urged to work for outlawing provocation against Muslims,” Dawn, 28 November 2020)

On the sidelines of CFM
Qureshi reiterated the countries committed to forging closer cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in diverse fields. He also met with his Somali counterpart to discuss bilateral relations and the promotion of economic cooperation. Further, during his meeting with Afghan counterpart he said, “Pakistan will continue to play its conciliatory role for peace in the neighbouring country.” (“Pakistan committed to forging closer cooperation with UAE: Qureshi,” The Express Tribune, 28 November 2020)

 

Opposition should postpone the PDM public meetings: PM Khan
Says COVID-19 situation does not allow gatherings

Image Source: The News International

While urging the opposition to cancel their public gatherings amid the surging second COVID-19 wave, PM Imran Khan firmly said the government would not permit the opposition to hold its rallies in Multan and other cities. He said, “The coronavirus is spreading dangerously, therefore the opposition should postpone PDM public meetings.” Further, he said, “The government will strictly enforce standard operating procedures and not allow the opposition to hold rallies as the health guidelines did not permit large gatherings.”

No NROs for the opposition 
Criticising the opposition, he reiterated that he would not give any National Reconciliation Ordinance-like concession to the opposition leaders regardless of rallies they staged. The PDM has held four public meetings, Gujranwala, Karachi, Quetta and Peshawar while two are scheduled for 30 November and 13 December in Multan and Lahore, respectively. (“PM rules out further permission for PDM ralliesDawn, 28 November 2020)

 

Downside risks of the pandemic are becoming prominent: Finance Ministry
Fiscal deficit widens by nearly 70 per cent

Image Source: The News International

On 27 November, the Finance Ministry released its monthly economic update and outlook in which it states that “Looking at the impact of the ongoing coronavirus, the downside risks are becoming prominent.” The ministry also said that Pakistan’s nascent economic recovery is faced with downside risks due to the second wave of Covid-19, however, inflationary pressures are easing out.

The report also highlighted that although economic recovery that had started since the beginning of the new fiscal year continued in October, effects on the economic outlook would depend on the intensity and duration of restrictions being imposed on some sectors and areas of the economy. The ministry acknowledged that fiscal deficit as of 20 November increased by almost 70 per cent when compared with the same period of last year even though development expenditure remained almost flat. (“Virus surge, restrictions threaten economic recovery,” Dawn, 28 November 2020)


In Brief
PROVINCES
Religious scholars to support KP government in combating second COVID-19 wave
On 26 November, clerics from different schools of thought unanimously pledged support to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary to tackle the second wave of COVID-19. The health department officials emphasised that the clerics play an important role in addressing the rising number of cases; following this, the religious scholars assured they would ensure SOPs were followed in mosques, especially during the Friday prayers. (“Clerics to support govt’s anti-Covid efforts,” The Express Tribune, 27 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Opinion warns against speculations on Pakistan’s Israel policy
An opinion in The News International, highlights a widespread speculation in Pakistan - Imran Khan is opposed to recognising Israel but the military establishment differs in opinion. The author says such claims gained traction because of pro-Israel views put forward in the media by various professionals, including retired generals. Further, the author dismisses claims that the UAE and Saudi Arabia are pressuring Pakistan to recognise Israel. He says the two countries have been supporting Pakistan not just through financial grants, donations and investment but through employment of millions of Pakistanis. Therefore, he urges social media users to not fall prey to speculations and respect the GCC countries’ contribution to Pakistan. (Ansar Abbasi, “Civil, military establishments united against recognising Israel,” The News International, 28 November 2020)

Pakistan will win no friends, will lose the ones it has if it recognises Israel, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn highlights the outcomes that could pan out if Pakistan recognises Israel. The author says if Pakistan does so, then it will lose its right to push for self-determination for Kashmir. The author says “Modi’s crimes in India-held Kashmir,” are similar and “a tribute to Israel dropping white phosphorus on screaming civilians.” Further, he refers to the Saudi Arabia-Iran rivalry in the region and says Pakistan has good ties with both countries but recognising Israel to please Saudi Arabia will bring no advantage to Pakistan. He concludes, “Pakistan will win no new friends, risk losing the ones it already has, enrage its people, condemn the Palestinians to oblivion, and cede the Kashmiris to their occupiers all to recognise a settler colony that only ever expressed interest in bombing Kahuta in 1984.” (Asad Rahim Khan, “Weeping for Zion,” Dawn, 28 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
PTI nominates CM candidate; GB Assembly Secretariat postpones elections to 30 November
On 27 November, PTI chief organiser announced that Imran Khan had nominated Khalid Khurshid as the party candidate for the chief ministerial position in GB. Khurshid was elected as a member of the GBLA elections from the Astore-1 division. He joined the PTI in 2018 and was also appointed as the President of the PTI’s Astore-Diamer chapter. Meanwhile, the GB Assembly Secretariat has postponed election for the CM position to 30 November; Imran is also expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony on the day. (Jamil Nagri, “PM nominates Khalid as PTI candidate for GB chief minister,” Dawn, 28 November 2020)

 

 


FO says Kashmir issue is a permanent item on OIC agenda


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
FO says Kashmir issue is a permanent item on OIC agenda
Condemns reports of Kashmir not on the OIC agenda as baseless

On 26 November, the Foreign Office dismissed the reports that the issue of Kashmir was not on the agenda of the meeting of the OIC’s foreign ministers. The FO termed the reports as “Indian propaganda and disinformation campaign,” adding, “The reports are baseless. Such irresponsible speculations are part of false Indian propaganda and disinformation campaign. Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a permanent item on the OIC’s agenda.” Further, this comes after OIC media statements on the meeting agenda, made no specific mention of Kashmir as well as domestic as well as foreign media claiming Kashmir was not on the agenda as the two-day Niamey meeting of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) is set to take place.

Pakistan’s advocacy at the OIC 
Pakistan has had been seeking a special OIC CFM on Kashmir, however, the country’s efforts have not materialised due to absence of Saudi support for Pakistan’s request. Further, the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir has also met thrice in the past year. In this regard, the FO spokesman said, “The Final Communique of that meeting called upon India to rescind its illegal actions and stop egregious human rights violations in the illegally occupied territory,” however, “No meeting of the contact group on Kashmir is taking place in Niamey because of Covid-19 pandemic.” (“Kashmir issue is permanent item on OIC agenda: FO,” Dawn, 27 November 2020)

 

Daily cases of COVID-19 surge to 3,300
Positivity rate recorded at over 7 per cent

Image Source: Dawn

On 27 November, the Dawn reported that with nearly 46,000 tests carried out in a single day, the daily cases of COVID-19 have surged to 3,300. This record number comes after a gap of four-and-a-half months and the number of active cases has reached 43,963 across the country. According to the latest data issued by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), a total of 3,306 people tested positive for the disease and 40 people lost their lives in a day, further, 284 ventilators, out of a total of 1,767 meant for COVID-19 patients, were in use. Further, the positivity rate is said to stand at over seven per cent.

Pakistan’s second wave
In September, the total number of active cases dropped to less than 6,000, however, October saw an increase. On 27 October, the number of active patients reached 11,190 and on 18 November the number was 30,362. (“Pakistan sees over 3,000 virus cases for second day,” Dawn, 27 November 2020)

Bilawal tests positive for COVID-19
Meanwhile, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has tested positive for COVID-19. In a tweet he said, “I'll continue working from home and will be addressing PPP foundation day via video link. Wear a mask everyone, see you on the other side.” (“Bilawal tests positive for Covid-19, says will address Multan rally via videoDawn, 27 November 2020)
 

UAE decision to suspend visas discriminatory, says editorial
Warns of economic perils if Pakistanis are repatriated

Image Source: Dawn

An editorial in Dawn urges the UAE and Pakistan to clear speculations; the UAE confirmed the "non-issuance of visas till further notice, while the SAPM denied the ban on Pakistani workforce. The editorial says the UAE’s move to halt work visas to Pakistan comes amid the pressure on other Muslim countries to recognise Israel. It criticises the UAE decision and says the country is taking a harsh and discriminatory measure despite 1.2 million-strong Pakistani population in UAE; it could “spell doom for thousands of Pakistanis working in the UAE.” The editorial cites the State Bank of Pakistan annual report wherein the Bank warned that repatriation of Pakistanis could lead to a burden on the economy. This is because “there are no jobs” to “absorb them in the workforce,” especially in the post-Covid economy. Therefore, it urges the Foreign Office to challenge the UAE decision. (“Halting UAE visas,” Dawn, 27 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Court declares Shahbaz Sharif’s family members proclaimed offenders
On 26 November, an accountability court declared Shahbaz Sharif’s son, daughter and son-in-law, proclaimed offenders (POs) in a money-laundering and assets case. His son-in-law had previously been declared a PO in a 2018 case for receiving Rs 12 million from former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company. In the current reference against shahbaz’s family, the National Accountability Bureau held that “in the last 30 years, the family assets swelled from Rs 2 million to Rs 7,000 million.” The court was to name Shahbaz’s wife a PO; however, her counsel argued the time period to declare her a PO is not over. (Numan Wahab, “Money-laundering, assets case: Shahbaz’s son, daughter, son-in-law, 3 others declared POs,” The News International, 27 November 2020)

Rizvi will not be the last leader to exploit sentiments in the name of religion, says opinion 
An opinion in The News International outlines the rise of Khadim Rizvi and the way ahead for the TLP. The author mentions different instances that shaped Rizvi’s politics and his personality like the 2017 blockade at Islamabad. He says by 2019, Rizvi had cemented his transformation “from a prayer leader at a Multan Road mosque to a disruptive influencer and leader of the Barelvi sect.” He reminds that though Rizvi has passed, “his legacy will live on” and he will certainly not be the last religious leader to play on people’s sentiments; his son has already declared himself as the torch-bearer of the TLP. Further, he says it would be extremely optimistic to expect that the PTI will come down heavily on this kind of extremism, just like, various other governments which have looked the other way. (Shahrukh Nawaz Raja, “The rise and rise of Khadim Rizvi,” The News International, 27 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan joins Saudi Arabia as founding member of a digital cooperation
On 26 November, Pakistan joined the Saudi Arabia-led Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) as a founding member. Foreign Minister Qureshi, who joined the launch of the event virtually said, the DCO would provide a platform to enhance cooperation in science, education, health etc. The Foreign Office said “digital diplomacy had been a core component of FM Qureshi’s public diplomacy initiative. This would encourage Pakistan’s digital diplomacy footprint. Other members of the Organisation are the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait.  (“Pakistan joins Saudi-led initiative for digital cooperation,” Dawn, 27 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Speaker, Deputy Speaker take oath in GBLA, members to elect CM on 27 November
On 26 November, Amjad Hussain Zaidi was elected as the speaker and Nazir Ahmed deputy speaker in the GB Legislative Assembly; both belong to the PTI. The GBLA members will vote on 28 November to elect the Chief Minister. The PPP, PML-N and JUI-F have jointly nominated PPP’s Amjad Hussain as their candidate; however, PTI is yet to nominate a candidate. Hussain said PTI failed to do so because a forward bloc had developed in the party. (Jamil Nagri, “PTI’s Amjad Zaidi elected speaker of GB Assembly,” Dawn, 27 November 2020)

 


"The country continues to see murders in the name of religion, as the authorities
continue to look the other way. A radicalised and conservative polity watches on, its silence betraying its acquiescence.”
-An opinion on Khadim Rizvi in
The News International,

 


Pakistan shares dossier on India with the UN


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Pakistan shares dossier on India with the UN
Guterres promises Pakistan’s envoy ‘appropriate action’

On 24 November, Pakistan’s envoy to the UN Munir Akram handed over a dossier on India’s alleged terror campaign to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Akram urged the UN Secretary-General to ask India to stop its ‘illegal and aggressive activities.’ He said, “We have urged the secretary-general to play his role in persuading India to halt its terror and subversive campaign against Pakistan.” Later, Akram highlighted how India’s ‘irresponsible behaviour’ could jeopardise the entire region. Further, Guterres promised to “study the dossier and take appropriate action.”

Allegations in the dossier
Akram while quoting from the dossier, explained that India’s alleged campaign against Pakistan includes, “promotion/ sponsorship of listed terrorist organisations, sponsorship of Baloch insurgents, training anti-Pakistan terrorists” among other alleged evidences. Further, he said that the dossier also contains evidence of Indian ‘subversive actions’ in ‘Azad Jammu and Kashmir’, Gilgit Baltistan and in Karachi, adding “India’s terrorist and subversion campaigns are being directed from the highest levels of the Indian leadership.” (“Dossier on India’s terrorism shared with UN,” Dawn, 26 November 2020)

Previously…
On 14 November, Pakistan revealed a dossier containing irrefutable “evidence” of India's alleged sponsorship of terrorism in the country while calling on the international community to take notice and make efforts for peace and stability in South Asia. (“'Irrefutable evidence': Dossier on India's sponsorship of state terrorism in Pakistan presented,” Dawn, 15 November 2020)

 

FM Qureshi reaches Niger to attend OIC minister's meet
Kashmir not on agenda of OIC meeting

Image Source: The News International

On 26 November, FM Qureshi reached Niger as he leads the Pakistani delegation at the 47th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). According to the News International, the FO stated, “During the visit, the Foreign Minister will highlight aggravating human rights and humanitarian situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir in the wake of India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5th August 2019 and subsequent measures to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory.” (“Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood reaches Niger to attend OIC minister's meet,” The News International, 26 November 2020)

Meeting agenda
According to the OIC Secretary-General, the meeting would discuss the Palestinian cause, the fight against violence, extremism and terrorism, Islamophobia and defamation of religion, the situation of Muslim minorities and communities in non-member states, fundraising for the Rohingya case at the International Court of Justice, as well as the promotion of dialogue among civilisations, cultures and religions, and other emerging matters.

Kashmir dispute not on the agenda 
The Kashmir dispute has not been included in the agenda. This omission of Kashmir from the agenda comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia/UAE remain strained over what Pakistani diplomats say are “unfulfilled expectations.” (“Kashmir not on agenda of OIC foreign ministers’ meeting,” Dawn, 26 November 2020)
 

PM aide says that the Govt has no intention to recognise Israel
Points out Saudi Arabia denial of meeting between the crown prince and Israeli premier

Image Source: Dawn

On 25 November, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on the Middle East and Religious Affairs said that the government has no intention to recognise Israel and is determined to stand by the oppressed Palestinians as well as Kashmiris. The SAPM said PM Khan had recently stated that the country was being pressured to recognise Israel but expressed his stand that “Islamabad will not compromise on the rights of fellow Muslims.” Further, on the meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Israeli prime minister, the SAPM said, Saudi Arabia, has denied reports of meeting between the two, adding, “Prime Minister Imran Khan has clearly said that Pakistan will not recognise Israel, Saudi Arabia has a similar position on the issue of Palestine.” (“No intention to recognise Israel, says PM aide,” Dawn, 26 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
COAS shuffles key positions in the military
On 25 November, COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa brought new commanders for five of the 11 theater commands. The decision to reshuffle the positions came after six major generals were promoted to the rank of lieutenant general prior to the retirement of six three-star generals in December. The new Lieutenant Generals and their postings are: Lt. Gen Muhammad Abdul Aziz (Commander Lahore Corps), Lt Gen Khalid Zia (Bahawalpur Corps Commander), Lt. Gen Muhammad Waseem Ashraf (Commander Multan Corps), Lt. Gen Nadeem Ahmad Anjum (Corps Commander, Karachi), Lt. Gen Syed Muhmmad Adnan (Inspector General Training and Evaluation, GHQ), Lt. General Sarfraz Ali (Commander Southern Command). (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Shuffle in top brass as six major generals promoted,” Dawn, 26 November 2020 and Muhammad Anis, “Promotions in Pakistan Army: Six two-star promoted to lieutenant generals,” The News International, 26 November 2020)

PM visits PML-Q leader in Lahore
On 25 November, Imran Khan visited PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in Lahore who was recently discharged after undergoing treatment for a chest infection. The visit comes a day after Shujaat had a conversation with Nawaz Sharif on the passing of Sharif’s mother. Punjab CM Buzdar and SAPM Shahbaz Gill also accompanied Imran and other PML-Q members were present. In recent times, the ties between the PTI and the PML-Q have been strained. According to sources, the PM assured Shujaat that he would address the PML-Q’s reservations. (“Thaw in PTI-PML-Q ties as PM visits Shujaat,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
New GBLA members take oath, will elect Speaker on 26 November
On 25 November, the newly-elected members of GB Legislative Assembly took their oath administered by the outgoing Speaker. The Assembly will elect the new Speaker on 26 November (today), and Chief Minister on 27 November. The PPP, PML-N and the JUI-F nominated PML-N’s Ghulam Mohammad as their joint candidate for speaker, JUI-F’s Rehmat Khaliq (deputy speaker) and PPP’s Amjad Hussain for chief minister. However, PTI has not announced its candidates. (Jamil Nagri, “Newly elected GBLA members take oath,” Dawn, 26 November 2020) 

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
PTI announces it will run for elections in “AJK”
On 25 November, the PTI announced its participation in the elections in “Azad Jammu and Kashmir without making an electoral alliance with any political party.” The announcement came after PTI’s chief organiser and the senior vice president met the former PM of “AJK” Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry. However, a PTI spokesperson said the party had planned to run for the elections in GB alone; PTI decided to form an alliance with the MWM after seeing its political strength. Similarly, PTI may make alliances with small local parties in “AJK” but will not form an alliance with any party which is a part of the PDM. The tenure of the current Legislative Assembly ends in July 2021.  (Amir Wasim, “After GB victory, PTI starts preparations for AJK polls,” Dawn, 26 November 2020)

UAE ban on issuance of work visas may result in loss of job market to India: Senator Baig
The Express Tribune cites a document dated 18 November 2020 wherein the UAE has suspended “issuance of work or employment visas to 13 Muslim-majority countries including Pakistan.” Previously, the said document was interpreted to have suspended only visiting visas; it was believed the UAE took the step because of the second COVID-19 wave in Pakistan. Further, the news article also cites an Aljazeera wherein an unnamed official said the decision was related to security concerns. Senator Anwar Baig was concerned the ban was “Pakistan specific” and that the ban would result in Pakistan losing its job market in the UAE to India. (Kamran Yousaf, “Fears of Pakistan losing job market to India grow after UAE visa ban,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Pakistan-US relations mat show marginal improvement, but will remain issue-specific, says opinion
An opinion in The Express Tribune says three factors would shape the US-Pakistan ties under the Biden administration. One, the US outlook towards China and its role in Pakistan through CPEC,  its approach to the Iran nuclear deal, and towards UAE-Saudi Arabia. The author says if the trade war between US and China continues, Pakistan will have to choose wisely keeping in mind its own national interests. However, he hopes Biden will look at China as a competition and not an adversary. However, he highlights that since the BECA has been signed, Biden might continue to support India against China. Further, he says Kamala Harris’s vocal criticism of Modi and the “human rights violations in Kashmir” may bring some pressure on India. He hopes the US-Pakistan ties would improve for the Afghan peace, as well. Therefore, he says it is likely that the relations between the two countries would improve but will be limited to specific issues. (Inam Ul Haque, “Joe Biden, South Asia and Pak-US ties,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2020)

 


"Septuagenarians have never brought revolutions, yet Biden promises his will not be a third Obama presidency.”
-An opinion in The Express Tribune

 


Asad says COVID-19 numbers worsening, urges SOPs compliance


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Asad says COVID-19 numbers worsening, urges SOPs compliance
48 deaths recorded in 24 hours; study shows 15 million already exposed to the virus

On 24 November, Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar warned that Pakistan may be heading towards the worst coronavirus situation in two weeks if preventive measures were not strictly adhered to. He said, “We experienced a peak in Covid-19 cases in June and if we do not follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), we may face the worst situation in the next two weeks,” adding, “Today 1,750 people are on oxygen or ventilators in the county, but in June 3,400 were on ventilators. If we do not care, the worst situation can occur.”
Further, he urged the people to support the government’s efforts to effectively combat the second wave of COVID-19 by adopting all preventive measures against the disease. (“Asad says Covid stats worsening, seeks SOPs compliance,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

NCOC makes important decisions 
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) meeting chaired by PM Imran Khan made some important decisions endorsing a decision of the education minister regarding educational institutions, ban on indoor dining in restaurants and public gatherings, strict implementation of SOPs and engaging ulema for the observance of SOPs in mosques.

Pakistan’s second wave
A total of 2,954 new coronavirus cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases to 379,883. With 48 new deaths, the country’s coronavirus death toll has reached 7,744, while the active number of cases stands at 40,379. Further, 39,165 tests conducted across Pakistan, the positivity rate had reached 7.5 per cent according to the latest data released by the NCOC.
Further, according to Dawn, a study issued by the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS), shows around seven per cent which is about 15 million people are exposed to the virus. The study also pointed out that the spread of COVID-19 is still higher in urban areas as compared to rural districts. However, if compared to the first round, the difference is decreasing over time. (Ikram Junaidi, “Covid kills 48 more as daily cases near 3,000,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

 

Corps Commanders Meeting at GHQ 
Generals express “serious concern” over the “irrefutable evidence of Indian state-sponsored terrorism” 

Image Source: Dawn

On 25 November, a meeting of the corps commanders at the General Headquarters headed over by COAS Gen Bajwa discussed the geostrategic, regional and national security environment. Further, the military officials expressed concern over India’s alleged sponsorship of terrorism in Pakistan and renewed the pledge to safeguard the country against any misadventure. This meeting comes after Pakistan released its India dossier last week. Further, The COAS said, “Pakistan Army, with support of state institutions and the nation, is fully prepared to thwart all internal and external challenges.” Additionally, he directed all commanders to ensure measures to support the national effort. (“Top brass vows to thwart misadventure by India,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

Generals raised serious concerns over India
According to the Dawn, the generals showed “serious concern” over the “irrefutable evidence of Indian state-sponsored terrorism and efforts to destabilise Pakistan” and observed that the “Indian efforts to sabotage CPEC, involvement in financing and training of terrorist organisations for fomenting unrest in Pakistan, especially in AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan, are an affront to peace and security in the region.” (Tahir Niaz, “Indian efforts to sabotage CPEC are an affront to regional peace,” The Nation, 25 November 2020)

FO spokesman says that the Indian government has escalated its anti-Pakistan campaign
Foreign Office Spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said, “The Indian government has escalated its anti-Pakistan campaign, marked by false narratives, concocted evidence, and orchestration of false flag operations.” Further, he cautioned the world from being misled by “Indian propaganda and urged it to act on the ‘dossier’ presented by Pakistan with incontrovertible evidence of Indian state-sponsorship of terrorism.”
 

On electoral protests in Gilgit-Baltistan 
Editorial asks why Pakistan cannot carry out a meaningful election reform

Image Source: Dawn

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the recent protests that have turned violent in Gilgit- Baltistan asks, regardless of the protest being justified or not, what stops the country from having an election whose results are acceptable to all contesting parties? Further, it asks, why can’t meaningful election reform be carried out, thus enabling them to put the rigging allegations to rest? The editorial concluded by stating that PM Imran Khan has recently expressed determination to bring electoral reforms and that if he is serious, an autonomous election commission must be the starting point. (“Protests in G-B,” The Nation, 25 November 2020)

An editorial in The Nation again critical of the situation says that the need of the hour is for everyone to accept the results announced earlier and to look at establishing GB’s full provincial status in Pakistan. The editorial says that although there is much work to be done, the bickering and blame game is only going to derail the process. Rather, it says that the PTI, PPP, PML-N and independent candidates must to come together and work as a unit, without any further delay. (“Acceptance Needed,” The Nation, 25 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
New anti-rape ordinances call for chemical castration and hanging of rapists
On 24 November, the federal cabinet approved two ordinances that “change the definition of rape” and provide for harsh punishment to rapists. The punishments include chemical castration and hanging of rapists. The Human Rights Minister tweeted that the ordinances will also push for “establishment of special courts, anti-rape crisis cells, protection of victims & witnesses, and prohibition of the two-finger test.” The Information Minister said the ordinances will be operational within a few days. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Cabinet approves anti-rape laws providing for harsh punishments,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Will not recognise Palestine unless there is a just solution, says FO Spokesperson
On 24 November, the Foreign Office dismissed rumours on the possibility of Pakistan recognising Israel. The FO spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan would not recognise Israel unless the Palestine issue is settled in a just manner, satisfactory to the Palestinians. He also said “it is imperative to have a two-state solution in accordance with the relevant United Nations and OIC resolutions, with the pre-1967 borders.” Further, he proposed that Al-Quds Al-Sharif would be “the capital of a viable, independent and contiguous Palestinian State.” (“FO rejects speculation over recognition of Israel,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

UK extends Nawaz Sharif’s visa, says unnamed source
On 24 November, sources told The Express Tribune that the British government has extended the visa of Nawaz Sharif for another six months. However, there has been no official confirmation from the British government. According to the source, Nawaz’s visa expired on 18 November and he requested a legal firm in the UK for visa extension on medical grounds. An official in the  Law Ministry said the “timing of Sharif‘s recent illness appeared rather convenient as it coincides with his visa expiry date.” (Hasnat Malik, “UK likely to extend Sharif’s visa for six months,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2020)

Biden may look to Pakistan to facilitate conflict resolution in Afghanistan, says opinion
An opinion in The Express Tribune highlights the possible role of Joe Biden in the Afghanistan peace. The author cites a quote from Bob Woodward’s book which conveys that Biden was a pivotal figure in Obama's Afghanistan strategy which resulted in an increased number of US troops in Afghanistan. He further quotes Biden, “Afghanistan is going to be his [Obama’s] war, and we cannot fix Afghanistan without Pakistan’s help.” Therefore, the author says that Biden will focus on Pakistan as a facilitator of conflict resolution in Afghanistan. He concludes that Pakistan will have to carefully deal with  Afghanistan and maintain a balance of power with respect to the two powers, US and China. (Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “Joe Biden’s election and Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Normalising ties with Israel could further isolate Palestinians, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn, written in the backdrop of a “covert meeting” between the Israeli Prime Minister and Saudi Arabia Crown Prince, says the meeting would be “the most significant move yet towards the recognition of Israel by the kingdom.” The author says if Saudi Arabia recognises Israel, it would be a diplomatic triumph for Donald Trump. He highlights that there is unlikely to be any change in the US’ Middle East policy under Biden. However, he warns that normalising relations with “Israel without a two-state solution could further isolate Palestinians and intensify conflict in the Middle East.” He says whether the new US administration will succeed in persuading Israel to suspend its new settlements and annexation plans remains to be seen.  (Zahid Hussain, “Recognising Israel,” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

Normalising ties with Israel, a move to please Trump, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn, citing the “secret meeting” between the Israeli PM and Saudi Crown Crown Prince, reiterates that there is no issue if the Muslim countries normalise ties with Israel. It says, however, this should be pursued only after a solution to the Palestine issue is arrived at to the Arab side’s satisfaction. It also the recent normalising of ties with Israel are attempts “to please the Trump administration.” It highlights that, if the new Arab-Israeli alliance is a step towards confronting Iran and its regional allies, it could lead to increased instability in the region because Israel has cemented its presence in the Gulf. (“Secret meeting?” Dawn, 25 November 2020)

 


Pakistan to set up a new intelligence committee chaired by DG-ISI


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Pakistan to set up a new intelligence committee chaired by DG-ISI
Aims at improving capabilities, coordination and the role of respective agencies

On 23 November, PM Imran Khan approved the setting up of the National Intelligence Coordination Committee (NICC). This new body is to be led by the DG-ISI who would function as its chairman. The first meeting of the coordination body is expected to be held as early as next week.

Functions of the NICC
The NICC would serve as a mechanism to coordinate the over two dozen intelligence organisations in the country. National Counter Terrorism Authority would also be part of the new structure. Further, the decision to create such a body comes as a part of the long-awaited reform of the intelligence apparatus, which aims at clarifying the role of respective agencies, improving their coordination, and optimising their capabilities.

Previously…
Over the years there have been attempts at developing intel coordination, however, progress could not be made due to the differences over the leadership of the new body. In 2008, the then PPP government notified the placement of ISI and IB under the “administrative, financial, and operational control” of the Interior Ministry. Similar efforts were taken by the then PLM-N government. however, it was unsuccessful.(Baqir Sajjad Syed, “PM okays creation of liaison body for spy agencies,” Dawn, 24 November 2020)

 

Protests turn violent in GB over election results
Government building and four vehicles torched by protests

Image Source: Dawn
On 23 November, around four vehicles and a building of Gilgit-Baltistan's forest department were torched by unidentified persons after a protest arranged by the PPP turned violent. PPP workers and police clashed while the former was protesting against the unofficial results of Gilgit-Baltistan A-2, Gilgit-2 constituency. (Imtiaz Ali Taj, “GB forest dept building, 4 vehicles torched as PPP's protest against alleged rigging turns violent,” Dawn, 24 November 2020)

PPP and PML-N continue to levelled allegations of rigging in the recent GB elections
PPP's information secretary for GB said that party workers had arranged a peaceful protest against alleged rigging in GBLA-II but the police used force to stop them, further, the secretary accused the CEC of hiding the results of the constituency. In response to this, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting said after the defeat in the GB election, the opposition should have known their political status. (“Riots in GB over election results,” The News International, 24 November 2020)
 

Positivity rate stands at 7.46 per cent, highest this season
PMA says virus more lethal in the second wave

Image Source: Dawn

On 23 November, Pakistan recorded its highest COVID-19 positivity ratio of the current season. According to the Dawn, data released by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the positivity rate in the country stood at 7.46 per cent. Further, the NCOC stated that 19 per cent of the cases have surfaced in educational institutions, where there has been an 82 per cent increase in cases during the last two weeks. Further, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) warned people against disregarding the seriousness of the virus and urged them to adopt precautionary measures. Additionally, PMA secretary-general said the second wave was more lethal as the infected people were developing severe symptoms with many losing their lives. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan sees highest Covid-19 positivity ratio of this season,” Dawn, 24 November 2020)

In Sindh, the government has imposed more restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. The provincial authorities issued new measures in line with the NCOC meeting which formulated a nationwide policy to control COVID-19 spread in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. (“Sindh imposes fresh Covid restrictions, limits business timings from 6am to 6pm,” The Express Tribune, 24 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Editorial suggests an alternative to the public rallies 
An editorial in The Daily Times, referring to the PDM rallies, says such a tactic by the Opposition may not be the best measure to pressure the government because of the ongoing pandemic. The editorial criticises the government for realising the threat of COVID-19 only after public rallies gained momentum. Further, it says the Opposition should use the Parliament and other options to change a government and not resort to “unconstitutional means,” or a no-confidence move. It says the government should secure its relations with its allies if  it wants to defeat the Opposition’s no-confidence move. It also urges the government and the Opposition to sit together, address differences, and resolve problems in the country. (“PDM Peshawar rally,” The Daily Times, 24 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Opinion emphasises need to follow-up on Imran’s Kabul visit 
An opinion in The Express Tribune, appreciative of Imran Khan’s visit to Kabul, outlines some of the issues that were not included in the talks between the two countries. The author says such interactions in the past too failed to break the ice and launch an “era of mutual cooperation and respect for each other’s positions on important issues.” He says Imran’s assurance to reduce violence in Afghanistan was not substantial as Pakistan has limited influence on the Taliban. Further, the author says the issue of water-sharing in the Kabul River was not addressed despite both countries being water-stressed. Therefore, he suggests that Imran’s visit should be followed by “a deeper and constructive engagement” focussed on “the realm of peace making.” (Rustam Shah Mohmand, “PM’s visit to Kabul,” The Express Tribune, 24 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Opinion proposes RCEP-like agreement and trade bloc stretching from New Zealand to Russia
An opinion in The News International highlights the position that Pakistan is in with regard to the RCEP. The author is critical of the fact that Pakistan’s economy has not witnessed progress over the last five years; Pakistan pinned all its hopes on CPEC, missing out on other economic avenues. He says Pakistan, without altering its foreign policy and its military/political goals, is expecting gains. He appreciates countries like Japan and China who engage in a give and take process. According to him, Pakistan is merely “trying to take all resulting in meagre gains.” He proposes that the Central Asian Republics, SAARC, and ASEAN blocs together can devise an agreement similar to RCEP. However, for this, SAARC countries, especially Pakistan and India, need to resolve their differences. He, therefore, emphasises the need to keep “military and political differences aside” in the better interest of economic and trade relations. (Dr Naazir Mahmood, “China, Japan and the RCEP - Part II,” The News International, 24 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Pakistan threatened by hybrid war unleashed by India, says former minister 
Former Interior Minister Rehman Malik, in a letter to Joe Biden, has requested intervention in the Kashmir dispute. In the letter, he requests Biden to ask Narendra Modi “to lift the curfew in Kashmir with immediate effect and support Kashmiris to get their right to self-determination.” Further, he says Pakistan is under the threat of a “hybrid warfare unleashed by India,” because “India continues to support Daesh under the full gaze of the world bodies.” He says that the UN does not hold India accountable and says, “if left unchecked, India under the direction of Modi, is all set to plunge the world into World War III.” He reminds Biden of Pakistan’s friendship with India, its contribution to the war on terror, and its role in the Afghan peace; despite all of the above, “India is still getting preferential treatment.” (Asim Yasin, “Malik writes to Biden, seeks his help on Kashmir,” The News International, 24 November 2020)

Can resolve other issues with India if Kashmir issue is settled, article quotes official
An article in The Nation quotes an unnamed official - “India is a global terrorist and is running global terrorism networks. We have shared irrefutable evidence with the influential countries.” It says India has been “hoodwinking the world and claiming to be the largest democracy in the world” while sponsoring “terrorism as a policy.” The article quotes another unnamed official who says that Pakistan’s contentions with India are similar to its contentions with Israel. He says just like Pakistan’s differences with Israel stem from the Palestine issue, its differences with India lie in the Kashmir dispute. Further, he says other problems with India can be resolved if the Kashmir question is addressed. (“India running terror networks: Pakistan,” The Nation, 24 November 2020)

 


"We Pakistanis do not want monitory gains but recognition of our sacrifices and selfless friendship make this world more peaceful following the principle of interfaith harmony.”
-Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Interior
Rehman Malik

 


PDM calls for the end of PTI’s “puppet rule”


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
PDM calls for the end of PTI’s “puppet rule”
Imran Khan warns of imposing complete lockdown
 

On 22 November, during the opposition’s Peshawar rally, the Pak­istan Democratic Movement (PDM) leaders sought an end to the incumbent PTI government’s ‘puppet rule’ and warned against government actions and policies which they claim were based on a ‘stolen mandate’. They also accused the PTI of hollowing out Pakistan.

Peshawar witnessed a massive turnout of general public
Despite the ban on public gatherings, the pandemic warnings, and security predictions of the rally being prone to terrorist attacks, Peshawar witnessed a massive turnout of the general public and political activists at the opposition’s rally. Further, marchers belonging to nearly 12 political parties poured into the rally venue despite the security warning from the KP government that quoted fresh intelligence reports as saying the “rally is prone to possible acts of terrorism.”

Time for the ‘selected government’ of Imran Khan to go says Bilawal
In his address, Bilawal Bhutto said it was time for the ‘selected government’ of Imran Khan to go. He also said, “We will hold accountable the puppet government and their selectors as well,” adding that corruption could not be rooted out until the law of the land applied equally to “judges, generals and politicians” of Pakistan. Further, terming PM Khan as a ‘puppet’ he added that he was also supporter and facilitator of militants.

PDM has declared war against the puppet rulers in Islamabad: Rehman
Addressing the rally, Maulana Fazlur Rehman declared PM Khan as Pakistan’s Mikhail Gorbachev, stating that his actions and policies would hollow out Pakistan, making it vulnerable to disintegration. Further, he said, “PDM has declared war against the puppet rulers in Islamabad,” adding, “We will not afford them the escape route of an NRO. We know who overtly stole the people’s mandate in the 2018 elections. We also know who did it covertly.”

Quotable
“Amid much pomp and show, the occasion eviden­ced a rare bonhomie among political parties of diverse hues — religious, nationalists and federalists — much like those in Gujranwala, Karachi and Quetta before it. However, what set it apart was the show of strength from the Awami National Party (ANP) that along with the Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl jointly hosted the event,” says Dawn. (“‘Puppet rule’ must come to an end, says PDM,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

Imran warns against complete lockdown if rallies continue
Meanwhile, PM Khan said the government would be forced to impose a complete lockdown if the opposition did not stop from holding public gatherings at a time when the country was battling the impact of COVID-19. In a tweet, he said, “In (Pakistan), the PDM by continuing with Jalsas (public gatherings) is deliberately endangering lives and livelihoods (because) if cases continue to rise at the rate we are seeing, we will be compelled to go into complete lockdown & PDM will be responsible for consequences.” (“Imran warns of total lockdown if rallies continue,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

 

On Gender: Selective justice is no justice at all, says opinion 
Rights protection and relief should not depend on social media reactions

Image Source: Pakistan Reader

An opinion in the Dawn critical of the plight of women in Pakistan says that women’s protection has become increasingly dependent on the level of publicity an incident receives. In this regard, the opinion says that rights protection and relief should not depend on social media reactions.

The problem is two-tiered: legal loopholes and on-ground practicalities
The opinion asks that although established mechanisms exist, female employees still have to work in and endure unsafe sexist environments. Why?
To this, the opinion highlights two issues. First, the legal loopholes. The Ombudsperson’s Office, to start an inquiry into an organisation’s failure to implement the anti-harassment law, depends on complaints made by employees. However, there is no penalty for non-compliance. Thus, may organisation have ignored such laws, thereby limiting the ombudsperson’s capacity to take affirmative action. Another loophole is the lack of vital data accumulation regarding harassment at the workplace thus creating space for suppression and abuse.
Second, on-ground practicalities. The opinion state that most social media reactions to being harassed include victim-blaming and character assassination. This in turn leads to families imposing further restrictions on their working female relatives, as a result, the number of women choose not to come forward with their complaint. Further, practical hurdles such as the accessibility of the office act as a deterrent for women facing harassment at the workplace.

Existing laws must be made more prominent
The opinion says that much of these practical hurdles can be minimised by, first, making the existence of this law more prominent while promoting the female perspective, thus giving women greater confidence to come forward and name their harassers. Further, the opinion concludes by stating that the severity of the situation can be observed through the resistance against establishing internal inquiry committees received in parliament, the judiciary, bar councils and political parties. However, while those in power hide behind technicalities instead of constituting committees in good faith, the opinion is critical of expecting workplaces to do the right thing. (Beenish Zia, “Silence of the working woman,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

From the PR Archives: Women in Pakistan have broken the glass ceiling, but the social walls stand strong
While women have progressed rapidly in Pakistan, a closer look into the status of working the story does not seem to be the same. The plight of working women has been plagued with violence, harassment and discrimination with women still struggle as they continue to live in a 'Man's World'. Women continue to reach greater heights only to face the same problems that once restricted them. (“The Gender Question,” Pakistan Reader, 8 September 2020)
 

Another member of Ahmadi community killed 
Security to minority communities not a priority for the State, says  editorial

Image Source: Dawn

An editorial in the News International, critical crimes perpetrated against religious minorities say that the recent killing of another member of the Ahmadi community is another senseless killing. Further, critical of the little to no reaction to these killings shows that providing security to minority communities is not a priority for the government both at the centre and province. Further, the editorial says that although there are laws in place to address such hate-inspired and faith-based killing, the response of individuals or mobs to take vengeance on their own has become such a normal part of life in Pakistan, however, the reason people continue is that overall society tolerates it. The editorial concludes by stating that any real change in Pakistan will have to come with a change in the mindset of the people. Further, those who spread hate should not be tolerated, adding that Pakistan will only be worth living in if it respects all Pakistanis, regardless of creed. (“Rising hatred,” The News International, 23 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Rectify misconceptions on COVID-19, invest into scientific research, says an opinion
An opinion in Dawn, critical of the public’s and politicians’ disregard for COVID-19 SOPs, outlines the way forward for Pakistan to address the second wave of the pandemic. The author says the first step is to rectify the misconception that COVID-19 is harmless; the second wave could also be treated as a national emergency. To combat disinformation, the author suggests that media discussions of ‘interminable political squabbles’ be replaced with information of the pandemic and vaccines. He says the current measures - “use of masks, hand hygiene, and physical distancing - must be made a mandatory measure for the next one or two years. He further urges to place a moratorium on public meetings and political rallies; imposition of section 144 should help. He says the current situation must be translated into an opportunity to invest more into “scientific research institutions related to basic immunological research and vaccine development.” (Zulfiqar A Bhutta, “What can we do to salvage Pakistan’s Covid-19 response?” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

Opinion highlights problems of existing provisions to address concerns in legal profession
An opinion in Dawn, citing the letter by Judge Sajida Chaudhry, holds the respective bar council accountable for the current state of affairs in the legal profession. The author says that though the bar councils are not weak or undemocratic, the provincial bar councils fail to “effectively discharge their regulatory duties including the obligations under Section 9(c)” of the Legal Practitioners and Bar Councils Act, 1973.  This section is a provision to “determine cases of misconduct against advocates on its rolls and to order punishment in such cases.” He says one reason for lack of implementation is the two-step process that a complainant has to go through and also raises questions about “the conflict of interest and impartiality of adjudicators.” Further, he says the process is discouraging as it “seems designed not to provide justice but to frustrate any attempts to penalise a lawyer.” He, therefore, emphasises that a “process of accountability by independent and neutral adjudicators is a necessity to achieve that goal.” (Anique Malik, “A failed model,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

PROVINCES
Four suspected militants and a soldier killed in North Waziristan

On 22 November, “four suspected militants were killed and a soldier was martyred” after militants attacked a security check post in North Waziristan. As per officials, the incident took place in Speen Wam tehsil in the Mir Ali division. (“Four ‘militants’ killed in North Waziristan,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pakistani minister deletes controversial tweet against Macron
On 22 November, the federal Mini­ster for Human Rights deleted her tweet said French President Emmanuel Macron “was treating Muslims in his country like Nazis had treated Jews during World War II.” The Minister made her tweet based on an article published on “themuslimvibe.com” which said that France was “planning to issue special identity numbers to the Muslim children.” She deleted the tweet after the French Ambassador in Pakistan sent her a message informing her that the article published had been rectified. According to Dawn, by deleting the tweet, a possible diplomatic row had been averted. (Amir Wasim, “Diplomatic spat with France averted as minister deletes tweet,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
All eyes on Biden for the Israel-Palestine question say an editorial
An editorial in the Dawn says that whilst the Trump administration tried its best to bury the dream of a Palestinian state forever and ensure Israel was not accused of its brutality, all eyes will be on how Joe Biden handles this subject come January. Further, the editorial states that although Biden may reverse American recognition of illegal settlements, he has stated that he will not change his predecessor’s decision on Jerusalem. Thus, this means that Palestinian hopes for justice from the new US administration will remain unaddressed. Further, the normalisation of ties between Israel and other Arab states leaves the outlook for the region grim. The editorial concludes by stating that while the Palestinians will continue to resist, their critics will wrongfully label them as ‘enemies of peace’ for rejecting inherently flawed and unjust ‘peace’ plans. (“Pompeo’s tour,” Dawn, 23 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Opinion on Doval’s strategy and way forward for Pakistan 
An opinion in The Express Tribune criticises Ajit Doval and says that he turned the reversing of the “paradigm of terror,” between India and Pakistan into an industry. The author gives an example - “If India found pain in Kashmir, she will inflict the same on Pakistan in Balochistan.” He says if possible Doval might “turn Balochistan into Kashmir if he could somehow agitate the Baloch mind to a tipping point.” However, the author says Doval “has access to only a fringe hiding away in Afghanistan and on the borders with Iran.” Further, he gives other examples of Doval’s plan - revocation of Article 370, the Indian interest in Chabahar, “teaming up splintered TTP elements” and the like. He says that Pakistan may not always have the luck of escaping with minor skirmishes and urges Pakistan to review its options to counter India. He asks diplomats to present to the FATF and UNSC the evidence of Indian “violations of UNSC Resolutions for planning, abetting and financing terror against Pakistan”and for “nurturing elements of Daesh on its soil” [India] to attack Pakistan. (Shahzad Chaudhry, “Doval’s dirty war,” The Express Tribune, 21 November 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Opinion emphasises need for larger cooperation between Afghan and Pakistan leadership
An opinion in The Express Tribune, at the backdrop of Imran Khan’s visit to Kabul, says Afghanistan and Pakistan have to first resolve their trust issues. The author says in order to achieve their common agendas - dealing with issues of militants - there has to be a greater communication between the leadership of both countries. He hopes that if both countries develop a mechanism “instead of indulging in blame game,” the bilateral ties could go a long way and stabilise regional peace. He says though Biden’s Afghan strategy may not be different from Trump’s, he may “review the agreement with the Taliban with a view to extracting more concessions from the insurgent group,” thereby increasing pressure on Pakistan. Therefore, he asks Pakistan to make all-out efforts to build closer ties with Afghanistan. (Kamran Yousaf, “Pak-Afghan trust deficit,” The Express Tribune, 22 November 2020)

 


"PDM has declared war against the puppet rulers in Islamabad. We will not afford them the escape route of an NRO. We know who overtly stole the people’s mandate in the 2018 elections. We also know who did it covertly.”
-PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at the PDM rally in Peshawar

 


Imran Khan’s maiden visit to Afghanistan


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Imran Khan’s maiden visit to Afghanistan
Will do everything possible to reduce violence in Afghanistan, says PM Khan

 

During a joint press conference at the Presidential Palace, PM Imran Khan, alongside Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, stated that the two nations have historical ties and said that Islamabad would do everything in its capacity to reduce violence in Afghanistan and establish long-lasting peace. "The idea of visiting at a time when violence is increasing [in Afghanistan] is to assure you, President Ghani, that the people and the government of Pakistan have only one concern; peace in Afghanistan. The Afghan people have suffered for four decades," Imran Khan said. It is PM Khan’s maiden visit to Afghanistan. 

However, PM Khan noted that despite efforts by Pakistan in the US-Taliban talks and infra-Afghan dialogue, violence in Afghanistan had risen. (“Pakistan will do everything possible to reduce violence in Afghanistan, says PM Imran on maiden Kabul visit,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

Qureshi appreciates warm welcome

During a delegation-level meeting between Af-Pak officials which discussed regional security, bilateral relations, Afghan peace process and topics of mutual interest, Foreign Minister Qureshi thanked his counterpart for the warm welcome and said that the two countries share a "traditional and historic relationship".

Deepening Af-Pak ties

According to Dawn, a FO issued document mentions “three main strands of activity” for “rapid action”: first, the re-energising of joint intelligence services-led work by December 15, 2020; second, joint proposal for refugees' return by January 1, 2021 and finally, a joint proposal to further regional connectivity by January 1, 2021. (“Pakistan steps up Afghan peace efforts,” The News International, 20 November 2020)

 

Hafiz Saeed convicted in another terror financing case
Saeed's lawyer says he was convicted under FATF pressure

Image Source: The News International

On 19 November, an Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore convicted Jamatud Dawa (JuD) leader Hafiz Saeed in another terrorist financing case. The court sentenced him to five-and-a-half-year imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 1,10,000. However, Saeed is already serving two sentences of five-and-a-half-years, handed down to him in February, this means he will not serve any extra jail time. This conviction comes amid Pakistan’s efforts to avoid punitive blacklisting by FATF. Further, Saeed's lawyer has also stated that he was convicted under FATF pressure. (“Hafiz Saeed convicted in another terror financing case, sentenced to 5 and a half years in prison,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

The ATC judge also sentenced Malik Zafar Iqbal, a close aide to Hafiz Saeed, along with Jamaat’s spokesperson and Professor Hafiz Makki. The court has convicted these JuD leaders in two different cases registered by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Lahore. (“JuD chief Saeed sentenced to 10-year imprisonment,” The News International, 20 November 2020)

Previously…
Saeed was arrested by CTD in July 2019, while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala. According to the CTD, JuD was financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts. Subsequently, these non-profit organisations were banned in April 2019 as the CTD, during detailed investigations, found that they had links with the JuD and its top leadership. Further, the government also banned the JuD, with law enforcement agencies intensified their crackdown on numerous other banned outfits, while arrested more than 100 activists.
 

TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi passes away 
Made last public appearance at a sit-in at Islamabad's Faizabad interchange

Image Source: Dawn

On 19 November, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi passed away in Lahore. According to the Dawn, the party’s spokesperson said that the TLP chief had been experiencing difficulty in breathing and was running a fever. When his condition deteriorated, he was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Rizvi made his last public appearance at a sit-in staged at Islamabad's Faizabad interchange to protest the publication of blasphemous caricatures of Prophet Muhammad in France. PM Imran Khan along with other ministers and parties offered condolences on his demise. (“TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi passes away in Lahore,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

Rizvi was known to be one of the most popular leaders of the Barelvi school of thought often with his harsh tone and choice of strong words. His sudden rise in the country’s politics four years back shook up politics, as a vast majority of Ahle Sunnat population, which was opposed to government policies on blasphemy issue began following him. Further, he considered himself among the protectors of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, particularly the Khatm-i-Nabuwat and Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, because of which he earned the name of “blasphemy activist” in religious circles. (“TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi dies,” The News International, 20 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
GB polls: Five independent winners join PTI, Bilawal cries foul 
On 19 November, five independent winners in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections joined the PTI. Now, the party has 16 members in the 33-member GB Legislative Assembly and is set to form the government. Meanwhile, Bilawal Bhutto said the PTI was “cheating” the independent candidates by promising each one of them the Chief Minister’s position. He reiterated that the Chief Election Commissioner played a role in rigging the elections. Further, he said the federal government will be “sent packing” by January 2021 because of its failure on every issue, like the Kashmir cause and mismanagement of COVID-19. (Jamil Nagri, “Bilawal hits out at govt as five GB independents join PTI,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

Tech companies worry about  new internet censorship laws
On 19 November, the Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) raised concerns on the “Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content (Procedure, Oversight and Safeguards) Rules 2020” under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016. The law entails a blanket ban on any content critical of the government or public servants. Further, it allows for the banning content which is seen as “obscene,” and monitoring of social media apps. Social media companies are also expected to “provide the designated investigation agency with any information or data.” It could include subscriber information, traffic data, content data etc. (Ramsha Jahangir, “Tech giants threaten to leave Pakistan if social media rules stay,” Dawn, 20 November 2020) An editorial in The News International highlights that when Nawaz Sharif tried to pass this law in 2016, critics worried that it would mark the beginning of a “new era of clampdowns on free speech.” The editorial says the heavy-handedness of the State will lead Pakistanis “down a dangerous path of complete conformity and denial of any kind of dissenting thought.” (“Censoring the internet,” The News International, 20 November 2020)

Statements on electoral reforms sound political than substantive, says editorial 
An editorial in Dawn, critical of the ongoing debate between the government and the Opposition on electoral reforms, says it is disheartening the core of democracy - elections - being debated. It says that the general elections are less than three years away, it is time to stop debating and reach a consensus. However, it highlights that the current polarisation in Pakistan will make it difficult to carry out any reform; all statements by politicians seem more political than substantial. It, therefore, urges the senior members in the Parliament to “engage in some quiet discussion to forge a basic minimum agreement on electoral reforms.” (“Electoral reform,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

PROVINCES
Planning Minister announces USD 600 billion package for south Balochistan
On 19 November, the federal cabinet “announced a USD 600 billion package for development projects” in nine districts of south Balochistan; USD 540 million will be borne by the federal government and the rest by the provincial government. According to the Minister for Planning and Development, the project will “provide electricity to over 57 per cent of the area’s population” compared to the current 12 per cent right. Other initiatives under the project  include agricultural benefits and free education. The Minister said similar packages will be announced for north Balochistan, interior Sindh and GB. (Kalbe Ali, “Rs600bn package announced for development in south Balochistan,” Dawn, 20 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Opinion tells Pakistan to invest beyond strategic relations in Afghanistan
An opinion article in The Express Tribune says under US President-elect Biden, America might focus on the aftermath of the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan. The author says Biden is likely to incorporate “concerns of allies, including those in Kabul,” and engage with experts in the US national security establishment thereby adjusting the US’ drawdown and disengagement policy accordingly. In this context, he says the US also remains concerned about Pakistan’s security situations. Therefore, the author urges Pakistan to look beyond its strategic concerns and engage with Afghanistan on the economic front. He hopes “Pakistan will find a sympathetic ear in the Biden administration if it can articulate feasible trilateral arrangements to help boost long-term stability and economic prosperity.” (Ayed Mohammed Ali, “Biden’s win and future of Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 19 November 2020)

 


"The idea of visiting at a time when violence is increasing [in Afghanistan] is to assure you, President Ghani, that the people and the government of Pakistan have only one concern; peace in Afghanistan.”
-PM Imran Khan on his visit to Afghanistan

 


PDM may present its reforms as legislation in Parliament


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
PDM may present its reforms as legislation in Parliament
‘Charter of Pakistan’ to be signed on 13 Dec, says PML-N
On 18 November, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) voiced its decision to consider an option to present its own reforms as a legislation in the parliament. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz secretary general Ahsan Iqbal said “Since we have decided to completely boycott all the activities under the present illegitimate government, there is no question of talking to it on any matter, including the election reforms”. PDM had previously rejected PM Imran Khan’s offer for talks regarding the electoral reforms. Ahsan added that the ‘Charter of Pakistan’ would be signed on 13 December. (“PDM likely to propose electoral reforms before parliament,” Dawn, 19 November 2020) 

Sherry Rahman calls for accountability in rigging of GB elections
Pakistan Peoples Party’s Senator Sherry Rehman, rejecting the PM Khan’s offer, said the incumbent government “should first accept responsibility for rigging elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and then talk about reforms… This sudden interest in electoral reforms seems extremely dubious when all these years they have done nothing about it”. “This just reflects the federal government’s non-serious attitude. When it came to Kashmir or Gilgit-Baltistan, the PM did not take the opposition into confidence, but now he wants to talk to the opposition to get these reforms passed,” she added.

PDM jalsas will close doors for “political solution to the present morass”, says Dawn
As the opposition says their only option is to “raise the temperature”, the article details the identified phases of PDM’s schedule: “Round 1 entailed jalsas in Gujranwala, Karachi and Quetta. Then there was the nearly three weeks long break for the GB election campaign. Round 2 includes jalsas in Peshawar, Multan and Lahore (and a later one in Larkana on the death anniversary of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto). Round 3 is the long march to Islamabad (and whatever transpires after that).” Opining that PML-N leaders who do not agree with Nawaz Sharif’s statement are also forced to smile and nod, as the PML-N card is still the strongest in Punjab and they do not want to sacrifice their careers, the article predicts the upcoming four weeks to be critical for PDM and PTI. (“RED ZONE FILES: Here comes Round 2,” Dawn, 19 November 2020)
 
Meanwhile…
Observing contradictions in government policies to curb the worsening coronavirus situation in Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Athar Minallah pinned down the responsibility of stopping public gatherings on the government. (“IHC order for govt: Stop large public rallies,” The News International,19 November 2020)

 

GB polls: FAFEN observers report three illegalities
Political parties must stop ‘political engineering’ and start accepting defeat, says article 

Image Source: The News International

On 18 November, the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) released its preliminary report on the recently Gilgit Baltistan Elections 2020, saying “an average of around three illegalities or irregularities per polling station,” however overall, the voting and counting processes were followed as required by the law. According to the Dawn, the preliminary report the irregularities observed were, breach of the secrecy of the vote, stamping of ballots by others on behalf of voters, and voters registered at the polling stations turned away for various reasons despite having their National Identity Cards (NICs). Further, it pointed out that such issues could have been avoided with more diligent enforcement by Election Commission of Gilgit Baltistan (ECGB). (“Fafen observers report illegalities at polling stations during GB polls,” Dawn, 19 November 2020)

Impressed with the ECGB success
The report also pointed out instances of overcrowding due to the allocation of more than the legally prescribed number of voters per polling booth which led to disorder at some polling stations. Further, it added that although the voting and counting processes were mostly transparent, FAFEN observers reported the presence of polling agents of major political parties and independent candidates in most polling stations. However, instances of polling agents were seated at a place from where they could not observe the voting process clearly. Furthermore, the report stated that it was impressed with the ECGB success in stopping political parties from campaigning and canvassing for votes on election day. (“FAFEN points out irregularities in otherwise 'orderly' Gilgit Baltistan elections 2020,” The News International, 19 November 2020)

Political parties must stop ‘political engineering’ says an article 
An article in the News International while highlighting the Post-GB election scenario says that the people deserve full credit, however, it is now in the hands of the elected representatives and the party that will form the government to fulfil the promises they made during the election campaign. The article says that one lesson that all parties could learn from this election is that even ‘electables’ could also loose. Further, the author says that political parties need to undertake serious work to ‘reform the system,’ as well as adopt measures to stop ‘political engineering’ and start accepting defeat if not, democracy will remain a myth in Pakistan. (Mazhar Abbas, “Post-GB election scenario,” The News International, 19 November 2020)
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Punjab records highest number of daily deaths in country, imposes smart lockdowns
On 18 November, Pakistan recorded 37 COVID-19 deaths and registered 2,208 new cases. The National Command and Operation Centre said that of the 37, 34 died while undergoing treatment in hospitals. Meanwhile, as Punjab accounted for the highest number of daily deaths (17) on the day, the government announced smart lockdowns in Bahawalpur, Bhakkar, Multan, Rawalpindi, Sargodha and Lahore. (Amir Malik, “Corona claims 37 more lives in Pakistan,” The News International, 19 November 2020)

Dawn highlights the problem in the lower judiciary
An editorial in Dawn, citing a letter by Judge Sajida Chaudhry to Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed on discrimination against women professionals in the judiciary, highlights incidents of “hooliganism” by “black coats.” The editorial says lawyers go to any extent - aggression in courtrooms, vandalism, attacking organisations -  to “settle scores” or express displeasure, against a judge, his verdict, or civil society workers. It highlights that if bar associations and senior judiciary leave such actions unaddressed, it would dishearten women willing to join the judiciary where the male-female ratio is already in favour of men. It concludes by asking what factor emboldened lawyers to “go off the rails at the drop of a hat.” (“A law unto themselves,” Dawn, 19 November 2020)

ECONOMY
Economy still fragile, implement reforms without hurting growth prospects, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn outlines the possible course that the upcoming visit of IMF mission to Pakistan should entail. For the last eight months, a USD 6 billion deal with the IMF has remained suspended; it was suspended when the government urged the Fund “to not pressure it for raising power tariffs till June for full-cost recovery from consumers” as per the deal signed in July 2019. It says that though Pakistan has managed to save the economy from failing, through fiscal and monetary measures and assistance from IMF and other lenders, the economy is still fragile. The editorial therefore urges Pakistan and IMF “to find a middle way to advance reforms without hurting the revival of growth prospects.” (“IMF programme,” Dawn, 19 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Russia, Pakistan amend Karachi-Kasur pipeline deal 
On 18 November, Pakistan and Russia amended the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) regarding the 1,122-km high pressure RLNG pipeline from Karachi to Kasur (Punjab). According to The News, now Russia will have 26 per cent equity and Pakistan 74 per cent equity in the project. Previously, Russia was supposed to completely finance the project. Further, a Joint Venture Company (JVC) with representatives from both countries will be set up. (Khalid Mustafa, “Karachi-Kasur gas pipeline project: Pakistan, Russia sign amended gas pipeline accord,” The News International, 19 November 2020)

 


"This sudden interest in electoral reforms seems extremely dubious when all these years they
have done nothing about it.”
-PPP Senator Sherry Rehman on election reforms

 


PDM rejects Center’s move to ban public meetings


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
PDM President rejects Center’s move to ban public meetings
Criticises the “present accountability system”
Image Source: Dawn
 
On 17 November, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) rejected the government’s move to implement Covid-19 related restrictions on public gatherings in Pakistan. PDM announced that its three upcoming meetings would be convened as per their previous plan. Speaking at a media briefing, PDM President Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, “There is talk about banning the public meetings on the pretext of coronavirus. We reject any such decision of the government and the PDM’s public meetings will be held as per schedule”. He also called the GB elections an “action replay” of the July 2018 elections. Maulana Fazl said the opposition rejected the country’s “present accountability system” and criticised the NAB and FIA. (“PDM rejects govt move to ban public meetings,” Dawn, 18 November 2020)

PDM rules out talks with PTI government
Maulana called the incumbent PTI government an ‘illegitimate’ government, and ruled out any talks with the latter. “We are not ready to hold talks with the government in any way. They (the government) are not representatives of the people,” he said. He was responding to a question on whether the opposition parties would hold talks with the government regarding Prime Minister Imran Khan’s recent proposal to conduct the upcoming Senate elections through show of hands.

Forms five-member committee for the preparation of a new Charter of Pakistan
According to Dawn, the PDM had constituted a five-member committee comprising Sherry Rehman and Raza Rabbani of the PPP, Khurram Dastagir Khan and Ahsan Iqbal of the PML-N and Kamran Murtaza of the JUI-F. Maulana Fazl said that PDM had approved the basic principles for the preparation of a novel Charter of Pakistan. 

Concern over “delaying tactics” in foreign funding case against PTI
Observing Shabbar Zaidi’s statement that he was stopped from taking any action after he presented the list of corrupt politicians involved in the foreign funding case, the Maulana said, “The confessional statement of Shabbar Zaidi is an FIR against the government”. (“Defying ban: PDM to hold scheduled rallies,” The News International, 18 November 2020)

Immediate Context
On 16 November, following the National Coordination Committee meeting, PM Khan had called upon citizens to observe SOPs and announced the decision to impose restrictions on public meetings and gatherings. Announcing the suspension of PTI’s public meetings, he asked the other political parties of Pakistan to follow suit.
 

It is imperative to stop mollycoddling groups of TLP’s ilk: Editorial 
Ultra-right-wing outfits have demeaned the country’s global image 

Image Source: Dawn
An editorial in the Dawn critical of the latest clashes between the TLP protester and government and the subsequent developments says that many such reactionary outfits have been allowed to thrive on Pakistani soil. Adding that these groups have done nothing but damage the global image of this county. Further, their provocative rhetoric and violent actions have reinforced the enemy’s narrative and weakened the principled positions on regional human rights issues.

The sense of deja-vu is unmistakable
The editorial goes on to draw parallels between the 2017 incident where during the PML-N government’s tenure, that the TLP first made its presence felt when its activists forcibly occupied the same site for over 20 days to demand the ouster of the law minister on entirely baseless grounds. Since then the group has demonstrated its destructive street power on several other occasions, more recently on the announcement of Asiya Bibi’s acquittal by the Supreme Court.

TLP will continue to use its bully pulpit to pressure governments
The TLP will continue to use its bully pulpit to pressure governments into wholly untenable compromises that an economically weak country cannot afford adds the editorial. It concluded by stating that matters have come to a point where it is necessary to stop indulging groups of like the TLP, let alone using them for dubious political objectives which would only lead Pakistan to ruin. (“Yet more space,” Dawn, 18 November 2020)
 

PPP raises questions over GB CEC’s neutrality
People of GB deserve an inclusive policy, says opinion 

Image Source: Dawn

On 17 November, head of PPP’s Central Election Cell questioned the GB chief election commissioner’s neutrality in the recently held Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, arguing that instead of taking action over ‘open and blatant violation of electoral law’ by the federal government the commissioner was asking the opposition parties to provide proof. Adding that if the CEC had taken any action on the complaints of blatant pre-poll rigging and the polling day rigging, the post-poll rigging would not have taken place. Further, numerous opposition party leaders for the past couple of weeks have been asking the GB CEC to take notice of PM’s announcement on granting provisional provincial status to the region just days before the polls and the election campaign being run by his cabinet members in violation of Election Act. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “PPP questions GB CEC’s neutrality,” Dawn, 18 November 2020) (Asim Yasin, “PPP questions role of GB CEC in Gilgit-Baltistan polls,” The News International, 18 November 2020)

It is time to have a more inclusive policy towards the people of Gilgit-Baltistan: Opinion
An editorial in the News International while looking into the larger historical perspective of colonialism and international politics says that the ongoing national debate about the change in the political status of GB must be seen through this. Further, it notes that the people of GB still believe that if Pakistan cannot bring this region under its constitutional limits, it should at least grant a special package to ensure the protection of the political, legal and economic rights of the people. Thus, the proposed framework of the provisional constitutional province should empower local legislative assembly with a proper bureaucratic structure, an independent judiciary, representation in all constitutional bodies and eco-friendly investment under CPEC projects. The opinion concluded by stating that it is time to have a more inclusive policy for the people of GB. (Amir Hussain, “A land of unknowns,” The News International, 18 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan allots USD 100 million for vaccine procurement
Imran Khan approved the allocation of USD 100 million and advance payment for procuring the COVID-19 vaccine, according to Dawn. Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy (HSA) and Chairman of the National Vaccine Committee told Dawn that the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) is negotiating with different MNCs to purchase the vaccine as soon as possible. However, he reminded that no company has the approval to sell the vaccine yet neither has the cost been announced. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan sets aside $100m to buy Covid vaccine,” Dawn, 18 November 2020)

ECONOMY
Editorial urges Pakistan to look beyond China for FDI
An editorial in Dawn highlights that despite the FDI being at a 10-month-high at USD 317.4 million, net foreign investment shrunk “by 14.5 per cent to USD 587.5 million in the first four months” of the current fiscal year. The editorial says most of the direct investments were made by China as a part of CPEC. Further, it says Chinese investment too has slowed down after completing some of the early CPEC schemes and points out that chances of non-CPEC investments are minimal at the moment. The editorial urges Pakistan to diversify its FDI sources and attract non-debt-creating foreign investment to increase exports and “replace foreign debt to pay its import bill.” (“FDI challenge,” Dawn, 18 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW 
Increased global role of US expected out of Biden, says opinion
An opinion in The News International highlights the possible course of foreign policy the US will adopt under Biden. The author says one major change will be the increased role of the US in the global arena which Trump has significantly pulled out of. He says the US approach to India and Afghanistan are likely to remain constant; however, Biden might place stricter conditions on the Taliban in the Afghan peace and “will keep a check on Indian human rights violations in Occupied Kashmir.” He points out that owing to Pakistan’s close relations with China, the US might view Pakistan as a “thorn in the eyes.” He also hopes that unlike Trump, Biden will focus on “democracy, human rights and freedom of the press in Pakistan.” (Saleem Safi, “What does Biden’s win mean?” The News International, 18 November 2020)

ON CPEC
CPEC Authority bill passed despite Opposition objection
On 17 November, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Planning and Development cleared the “The China Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority (Amendment) Bill 2020 amid objections by the Opposition. The Committee suggested that the bill be passed with a 7:5 majority. However, Members of the committee belonging to the PML-N and PPP opposed the bill and submitted their note of dissent. The Opposition said their previous concerns over the CPEC Authority were unaddressed. Former Planning Minister also criticised the move and found the creation of the CPECA unnecessary and superfluous. (“NA panel clears CPEC authority bill with majority vote,” Dawn, 18 November 2020)

 


"We are not ready to hold talks with the government in any way. They (the government people) are not representatives of the people.”
-PDM President Maulana Fazlur Rehman
on election reforms

 


TLP to call off protest, says government after lengthy negotiations


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
TLP to call off protest, says government after lengthy negotiations
TLP Chief is expected to formally make the announcement
 
On 16 November, the government succeeded in convincing the TLP to end their sit-in after hours-long negotiations, according to The News. However, the final decision is to be made after a meeting with the TLP leadership. Further, TLP Chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi is expected to formally announce the end of the protest soon after which cellular services in the capital will be restored. (Shakeel Anjum, “Govt claims TLP protest called off,” The News International, 17 November 2020)

These negotiations were held on the instructions of the PM Imran Khan by a team of government officials, led by Minister for Religious Affairs, while the TLP six-member delegation was led by Sahibzada Saad Rizvi, son of Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and eight other leaders. However, the details of the signed agreement by both the parties have not been released. (Tahir Naseer, Kalbe Ali, “Govt succeeds in convincing TLP leaders to end protest after lengthy negotiations,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

Meanwhile, hundreds of TLP protesters took control of the Faizabad Flyover and Islamabad Expressway to stage a sit-in following a heavy clash with the law enforcing forces who resorted to teargas shelling.

The French Connection: ‘Act of international terrorism’
On 15 November, tensions rose in Liaquat Bagh as police and stick-wielding activists of TLP clashed after which the riot police resorted to teargas shelling against the protesters. The protesters had gathered after TLP chief called on a sit-in to denounce the publication of blasphemous caricatures in Charlie Hebdo magazine and remarks about Islam and terrorism by French President Emmanuel Macron. Further, they called for a boycott of French products along with the expulsion of the French ambassador from Islamabad. During the clashes, dozens of police personnel, and several TLP activists were injured. (Aamir Yasin, Mohammad Asghar, “Rawalpindi tense as TLP activists, police clash,” Dawn, 16 November 2020)

Earlier this month, the staged a big rally in Karachi in which, Rizvi said that France officially patronised publication of blasphemous caricatures by which it had committed an “act of international terrorism.” Further, he urged the federal government to “declare jihad” against France, adding, he believes that an “unannounced war” between Islam and non-Muslims have started. (“TLP holds rally in protest over blasphemous caricatures,” Dawn, 8 November 2020)

From the PR Archives: TLP history repeats itself 
In 2017 the TLP staged a blockade in Islamabad where their singular target was the PML-N. It all started when the government took down the amended Election Bill 2017 through the National Assembly despite strong protests from opposition lawmakers. The government then initiated several rounds of negotiations with the protesters but failed each time. After several rounds, the government gave in to the demands of the protesters after a 20-day-long sit-in. (“From Karachi to Paris: Global fallouts of the rise of Barelvi extremism in Pakistan,” Pakistan Reader, 6 October 2020)

 

GB polls: PTI emerges as single largest party
PTI bags 10 seats, PPP three, PML-N two and MWM one seat

Image Source: Gulf News
In the Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly (GBLA) elections, the PTI emerged as the single largest party, securing ten seats. It was followed by the PPP (three seats), the PML-N (two seats) and Majlis Wahdatul Muslimeen (MWM) one seat. Seven seats of the GBLA were won by independent candidates. Analysts and observes expect the independent candidates to play a decisive role in government’s formation. Election for GBLA-03 (Gilgit) will be held on 22 November. The constituency’s election was postponed due to the death of PTI candidate Jaffar Shah, the president for PTI’s GB chapter. (“PTI emerges as single largest party in GB after polls,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

PDM rejects results
The main opposition parties – PML-N and PPP – rejected the GB election results, while warning of protest rallies. PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal announced a march to the Chief Election Commissioner’s (CEC) office in Islamabad on 17 November, while PPP’s Bilawal Bhutto joined the party sit-in before the deputy commissioner’s office in Gilgit, against the alleged election rigging. “I am not going anywhere till the rights of the people were given to them,” said Bilawal. “The Election Commission supported the illegal acts of the PTI ministers,” he alleged. “We reject the GB elections,” said PML-N’s Ahsan. He accused federal ministers of blatantly violating the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) code of conduct. (“PDM rejects GB elections results: People buried Opposition narrative, says govt,” The News International, 17 November 2020) Meanwhile, the Center says that PDM’s “narrative” has failed.

Election results “delivered little surprise”, says Editorial
It says that despite the hot election campaigns by Maryam and Bilawal, the GB electorate, as per convention, has chosen to vote for the party ruling in Islamabad. It projects that most independent candidates would also collaborate with the PTI to form GB’s government. (“After GB polls,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

The News calls voting turnout “encouraging”
The Editorial says that the manner in which people, including the elderly and women, came out in large numbers despite the heavy snowfall shows the eagerness to “gain real representation in their potential province”. “This is an encouraging sign,” it adds. The editorial says that the electing of four female candidates for the general seats is promising but “unusual in the more remote parts of Pakistan, and notably in the north”. It adds that it is high time that GB enjoys the same constitutional protections as the rest of the country that is provided through the eighteenth amendment. (“GB elections,” The News International, 17 November 2020)
 

CII to prepare a draft to define forced conversions
Subcommittee formed to look into the proposed draft legislation 

Image Source: Voice of America

On 16 November, the Parliamentary Committee to Protect Minorities from Forced Conversions said that there must be clear definitions of, and differentiation between, forced and voluntary conversions. The committee chairman said that the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has been asked to undertake the task of preparing a draft to define forced conversions. Further, CII director general told the committee that the council’s research wing was “conducting the research on the matter and a holistic approach has been adopted” adding that the study could take some time to complete.

Additionally, a subcommittee has been formed to look into the proposed draft legislation against forced conversions so that a comprehensive law to cover all aspects of forced conversions could be framed. Further, the committee has sought feedback from the Ministry of Human Rights on the issue of forced conversion as well. (Kalbe Ali, “CII to define forced conversions, panel told,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM defies PM’s ban on rallies amid surging COVID-19 cases
On 16 November, Imran Khan said his party had cancelled all rallies this week and urged all political parties to follow suit as the number of COVID-19 cases “quadrupled in the last 14 days.” He also announced a ban on public gatherings of more than 300 people. However, despite Imran’s announcement, the PDM said it would conduct its rally in Peshawar on 22 November The PDM’s media coordinator said “We will not allow the rulers to hide behind the coronavirus pandemic. (“Public gatherings, rallies banned,” The News International, 17 November 2020 and “PDM says will go ahead with Peshawar rally despite NCOC's coronavirus restrictions,” The News International, 17 November 2020)

ECONOMY
PM says Pakistan’s economy recovering fastest in the region
On 16 November, Imran Khan said Pakistan’s economy was recovering faster than other economies in South Asia in the wake of the pandemic. He emphasised that his government aimed to improve macroeconomic conditions and "ensure its trickledown effects." Further, the Minister for Economic Affairs said for the first time in 15 years, the current account balance in Q1 FY21 stood at  a surplus of USD 792 million against a deficit of USD 1.492 billion in Q1 FY20. He said the balance of trade narrowed from USD 5.791 billion for the Q1 FY21 as against Q1 FY20’s USD 6.146 billion, registering six per cent improvement. (“Economy recovering at fast pace: PM,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Bilateral trade with Pakistan increased to $1.46 billion in 2019: Thailand
On 16 November, the Consul Gene­ral of Thailand in Karachi met the senior vice president of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI). The Consul General said Thailand’s trade with Pakistan increased to USD 1.46 billion in 2019 and emphasised on strengthening bilateral economic ties. He said Pakistan ranked “6th in Thailand’s global investment, while it is number 2 in South Asia.” Bilateral trade increased from USD 1 billion in 2016 to USD 1.7 billion in 2018. Meanwhile, QCCI senior vice president said COVID-19 had affected trade relations and requested Thai authorities to accept Pakistani traders’ COVID-19 reports. Further, he requested the Consul General to “extend multiple visa validation up to six years.” (Saleem Shahid, “Thai envoy stresses need to boost trade with Pakistan,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

Turkey and Pakistan to negotiate a preferential trade agreement
On 16 November, the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (ICCI) press release said that the Turkish delegation expressed interest to establish industrial units in Pakistan to meet the demands of the construction industry. During a briefing by ICCI President, Turkey’s ADO Group President said Turkey observed a huge potential for investment in Pakistan. Further, he said both the countries will negotiate a preferential trading agreement aimed at increasing investments in “transport, telecommunications, manufacturing, tourism and other industries.” (“Turkish firms to set up industrial units in Pakistan,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW 
Opinion highlights India’s problems with CPEC and the way forward for Pakistan
An opinion in The Express Tribune says the real reason behind India’s “discomfort” with the CPEC could be consolidation of long-term Chinese interests in Pakistan. Further, he says CPEC would cut through GB thereby increasing Islamabad’s role in the region and threatening the Indian claims on GB. Next, he says the regional hostility could have been addressed through the BRI but India “under the baggage of bitter Sino-Indian history and blinded by animosity with Pakistan, decided to stay away from BRI.” The author says, in order to respond to India, Pakistan must address the CPEC Authority’s state of limbo. Further, he says the Pakistan side of the CPEC story, backed by figures and facts, should counter anti-CPEC narratives “floated by Indian propaganda machine.” Lastly, he says Pakistan must realise the inseparability of Balochistan from CPEC and urges to address the problems in the region. (Hasaan Kawar, “CPEC: India’s new nightmare,” The Express Tribune, 16 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Pakistan reiterates position against India in UNSC
On 16 November, Pakistan briefed the five permanent UNSC members about the dossier “containing proof of Indian intelligence agencies’ patronage of terrorism in Pakistan.” Later in the day, Pakistan continued opposing the addition of new permanent members to the UNSC and said: “India does not qualify for a seat on the 15-member body.” Pakistan's Permanent Representative Ambassador said “one country [India] has waged 20 wars since independence and fomented terrorism and instability across the region, especially in Pakistan.” He further spoke on the Kashmir issue and said India “threatens aggression against Pakistan and resorts to daily artillery and small arms fire targeting innocent civilians on our side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.” He reiterated that India “has no qualification for a UNSC membership.” (“India doesn't qualify for UNSC membership, Pakistan says in General Assembly debate,” Dawn, 17 November 2020)

 


"The newly-empowered assembly must recognise the struggle waged by the people of Gilgit-Baltistan in the face of often violent opposition from the centre.”
-Editorial on GB polls, The News International

 

 


GB Polls: PTI becomes the single largest party


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 16 November 2020
The India Dossier: Two audiences, three purposes
Finally, the Establishment in Pakistan has decided to let the world know about the evidence that it has collected on India fomenting trouble in Pakistan – from Peshawar to Karachi. In a briefing, the DG-ISPR along with the foreign minister of Pakistan, made a case, with what they call as an "irrefutable evidence" against India sponsoring terrorism within Pakistan.

According to the foreign minister, "After 9/11, the world saw that Pakistan has become a front-line state. While Pakistan was making sacrifices in 'blood and treasure', India was busy laying terrorist networks using its own soil and the spaces in [Pakistan's] immediate neighbourhood and beyond. Today, we have undeniable evidence and we want to show it in the form of this dossier to the nation and the world." He also said: "Today, the Indian intelligence agencies are patronising banned outfits that are against Pakistan. Organisations like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Jamaatul Ahrar (JuA). These organisations were defeated by Pakistan, they were flushed out of the country, [now India] is trying to breathe life into them again. They are being supplied ammunition and IEDs (improvised explosive devices) and are being provoked to target ulema, notables, and police officials."

The Director-General of the ISPR, in his briefing, stated: "The investigations of the attack on the University of Agriculture in Peshawar in Oct 2017 led to the masterminds of the Army Public School (APS) attack. RAW had hired three facilitators for planning the attack on the university, including Malik Faridoon who was also involved in the planning of APS attack. Malik Faridoon soon after the APS attack, went to Indian consulate in Jalalabad to celebrate."

Clearly, the Establishment in Pakistan is making a case against India. Who is the audience, and what is the purpose of this media offensive against India?

Ever since the Establishment getting hold of Kulbhushan Jadhav, it has been trying to build a narrative highlighting India as a State, sponsoring terrorism. The audience is both – international and internal. 

The Establishment wants to place New Delhi in the bad light, and also project Pakistan as a victim of terrorism. This is a part of their long term strategy to create a "new narrative" to change the global opinion, especially after the killing of Osama bin Laden in the heart of Pakistan. 

Second, the Establishment is also trying to create a narrative, providing "evidence" to an internal audience to prove, that it has won the war against terrorism within Pakistan, however, it is India that is fomenting violence. So the argument is: it is not the failure of the security forces, but the role played by the Indian intelligence, which sustains violence within.

Third, the Establishment is also attempting to bring Beijing inside the above narrative, by stating that India is targeting the CPEC infrastructure and waging a proxy war inside Pakistan against China.
 
In Focus
GB Polls: PTI becomes the single largest party
PTI wins nine, independent six, and the PPP four. Opposition cries foul
 (Image Source: Dawn)
According to Pakistani national media, in the recent Gilgit-Baltistan elections held on 15 November, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf emerged as the single largest party. As per their sources, the PTI secured nine seats followed by independent candidates who won six seats. The PPP won four seats, while PML-N, MWM, JUI-F and Sajid Ali Naqvi’s Islami Tehreek Pakistan got one seat each. PML-N saw victory in two out of the 23 constituencies. The PPP and PML-N have alleged rigging and complained about irregularities. (“G-B polls: PTI leads with 9 seats; independents bag 7 and PPP 4,” The Express Tribune, 16 November 2020)

A peaceful vote
For GB’s third legislative assembly, 330 candidates, including four women, were contending for the 24 general seats. The polling went smoothly without intervals and interruptions in most constituencies. Citizens cast their votes while observing the pandemic SOPs such as social distancing and wearing facemasks. In the Gilgit city, women and elderly equally showed enthusiasm by casting their votes. Over 15,000 security personnel from GB, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Balochistan were deployed at polling stations. However, heavy snowfall did lull the voting turnout. (“PTI emerges single largest party in GB polls,” The News International, 16 November 2020)

Sherry Rahman questions the transparency of the GB polls
Speaking to media, PPP Parliamentary Leader in the Senate, Sherry Rehman said, “There are more than 600 members of the Free and Fair Election Network monitoring the election but some have been removed from the polling stations… Members of FAFEN must be given full access and all observers should be allowed inside during the counting of votes as their absence will only create more questions and cause controversy. It is also important that the Election Commission takes strict action”. “How are some form 45s filled before polling closes! Let observers into the polling stations and GB Election Commission, act NOW! This is open, flagrant rigging,” she later tweeted.

Dawn calls GB polls a test for political parties
Dawn calls the G-B polls a test case for determining the popularity of Pakistan’s three major political parties — the PTI, PPP and PML-N. throughout the election, PPP highlighted irregularities and wrongdoings on the part of the security personnel and election staff via social media.(“Strong showing by PTI as GB votes in keen contest,” Dawn, 16 November 2020)
 

Pakistan's India Dossier
India’s “rogue activities” aimed at destabilising peace in Pakistan, says an editorial 

Image Source: Dawn

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of India’s alleged “rogue activities” says that there are other indisputable proofs of activities by India aimed at destabilising peace in Pakistan. Further, the editorial points out to the “evidence” contained in a dossier in the form of copies of correspondence, bank transactions and communication intercepts that was presented by FM Qureshi and military spokesperson Maj Gen Iftikhar cites the alleged proof of various terrorist incidents as well as terrorist links that India has. Further, “The dossier made public by Pakistan exposes the ugly face of India that has been aiding and abetting terrorism and playing the victim card too, to hoodwink the world community.”

“The world can no longer afford to ignore India’s rogue behaviour”
The editorial states, “India has been raising a hue and cry, trying to get Pakistan labeled as a terrorist state. In a clear case of the kettle calling the pot black, New Delhi moved heaven and earth to get Pakistan blacklisted by FATF, but in vain.” Further, while emphasising on the alleged human rights abuses in Kashmir, it states that India “to divert the world attention from such excesses against the civilian population, it often tries to change the news cycle by heating up the LoC.”
In this regard, the editorial says that Pakistan deserves the right to defend itself and has rightly decided to share the undeniable evidence of India’s terrorist activities with the various international group as well as influential world capitals. The editorial concludes by stating that the world can no longer afford to ignore India’s “rogue behaviour.” (“Undeniable evidence,” The Express Tribune, 16 November 2020)

 

Sit-in held at Faizabad Interchange over blasphemous caricatures
TLP activists and police clash

Image Source: Dawn

On 15 November, tensions rose in Liaquat Bagh as police and stick-wielding activists of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) clashed after the riot police resorted to teargas shelling against the stone-pelting protesters. The protesters had gathered after TLP chief called on a sit-in to denounce the publication of blasphemous caricatures in Charlie Hebdo magazine and remarks about Islam and terrorism by French President Emmanuel Macron. During the clashes, dozens of police personnel, and several TLP activists were injured. Further, more than 170 activists were rounded up on 13 and 14 November and over 130 yesterday.

Further, while addressing the protesters, the son of the TLP chief said they would not be deterred by the arrests and shelling and the rally would continue as planned and demanded that the French ambassador be immediately expelled and all diplomatic, trade and economic ties with the country severed. (Aamir Yasin, Mohammad Asghar, “Rawalpindi tense as TLP activists, police clash,” Dawn, 16 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Adopt short-term and long-term strategies to address COVID-19, says opinion article
An opinion article in The Express Tribune warns that Pakistan would be in a dire situation if the government fails to address the resurging COVID-19 cases. The author says that the rise in the number of cases was inevitable as the government introduced relaxations in the SOPs since July. He says that Pakistan could slide further down from the being the 18th most-affected country because of the population density. However, he says the government is in a better position to manage the situation now because it had done so during the first wave. He urges for a short-term strategy - reimposing smart lockdowns. He says the long-term strategy should focus on ensuring  “availability of a safe and reliable vaccine” to address the pandemic. (Kamal Siddiqi, “Shutdown time,” The Express Tribune, 15 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Opinion article urges Pakistan to increase engagement with Central Asia
An opinion article in The News International appreciates the revival of regionalism in the Central Asian Republics and highlights the role Pakistan can assume in the region. The author says the CARs can “influence, neutralize and exert pressure” on different groups in Northern Afghanistan to prevent them from derailing the peace process. He says with Pakistan's influence in southern Afghanistan, both CARs and Pakistan could contribute to attaining “sustainable peace in Afghanistan.” Further, major projects in CPEC are economically viable through Afghanistan. Therefore, the author says, it would be fruitful for Pakistan to invest in Central Asia because until the Kashmir question is addressed, “South Asia offers almost nothing to Pakistan.” (Prof Shabir Ahmad Khan, “CAR regionalism and Pakistan,” The News International, 16 November 2020)

Elections exposed the American democracy's faultlines, says opinion article 
An opinion article in The Express Tribune examines whether the US has become a failing democracy. The author cites Paul Krugman’s post-election column and quotes - “If we were looking at a foreign country with America’s level of political dysfunction, we would probably consider it on the edge of becoming a failed state — that is a state whose government is no longer able to exert effective control.” The author attributes the current situation to the “not-fully representative structure” of the Senate. He says the same weight assigned to small and big states has resulted in the right-ward tilt of the Senate. He highlights that though the structure was designed to address the urban-rural divide under the British rule, it still exists in American politics. He says this divide was visible when the Republicans tried to nullify the 2020 election results leaning towards Biden. He concludes by saying that greater efforts are a need of the hour to save American democracy. (Shahid Javed Burki, “Is America a failing democracy?” The Express Tribune, 15 November 2020)

ON BLUE ECONOMY
Increase infrastructure, address Gwadar's problem to achieve blue economy, says opinion article
An opinion article in The News International criticises the negligent approach of Pakistan towards reaching its blue economy goals. The author proposes that revenue from the Port Qasim Authority and Karachi Port Trust can be increased if they are connected to the CARs. However, Pakistan has to invest in necessary rail infrastructure and custom arrangements to achieve this. Further, he outlines the need to improve the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation’s capacity. He is critical of the under-utilisation of Pakistan’s 1000 kilometre coastline, most of which lies in Balochistan and emphasises on investing in Gwadar’s port and the Free Trade Zone (FTZ). He highlights the various problems in Gwadar - inadequate supply of electricity, lack of breakwater facilities and dredging - and says unless these problems are addressed, Pakistan’s blue economy will remain a dream. (Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, “The blue economy,” The News International, 16 November 2020)

 


"The people of GB’s enthusiasm is a testament to their commitment to democracy. The election commission must not fail them and ensure every vote is cast & counted. #TeerPayThappa.”
-PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on GB polls (Twitter) 

 


Maryam softens stance, says will talk to the Army


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Maryam softens stance, says will talk to the Army
Calls negotiations with the incumbent government a ‘sin’
During an interview with the BBC on 12 November, Maryam Nawaz expressed her party’s readiness to convene talks with the army on certain conditions that included the end of the incumbent PTI government. “Army is my institution. We will definitely talk with it, but within the limits of the Constitution and within the limits prescribed by the Constitution,” Maryam said. “And these talks will be held in front of the public. No secret talks will be held with anyone,” she vowed. She also claimed that the establishment had contacted ‘people around her’. She clarified that she was not “against the institution”. The PPP said the interview was an outcome of the ‘ongoing rethinking process’ within PML-N. PTI criticised it as a ‘face-saving move’. Further, Special Assistant to the Punjab CM on Information termed Maryam Nawaz “irrelevant woman”. (“Talks with army only after govt’s ouster, says Maryam,” Dawn, 13 November 2020)

“What made Maryam soften her stance?” asks article 
The News opines that the shift in attitude is a result of the change in PML-N’s stance. The article says that the “winds of change have started blowing across the political landscape”. It says efforts to mull over options to replace ‘tabdeeli’ are surfacing in the PDM. It says that Maryam’s recent stance is a direct result of PDM’s meeting on 8 November. The article also draws parallels between the sudden ‘dissatisfaction’ within PTI coalition partners that was expressed during PM Khan’s meeting with PTI’s allies on 5 November and the current ‘winds of change’. “It will become quite difficult for us to go along with the PTI any further if the ruling party does not mend its ways,” said Federal Minister Tariq Bashir Cheema, who belongs to the PML-Q. (“What made Maryam soften her stance? Situationer,” The News International, 13 November 2020) A crumbling of the PTI-led ruling coalition and a rapprochement between the PML-N and the Army is bad news for Imran Khan.
 

On Iran-Pak relations; Media opines on the Iranian FM’s visit
Islamabad must chart a mutually beneficial relationship with Tehran, says Dawn

Image Source: Dawn

An editorial in the Dawn states that under the PTI’s administration there has been a noticeable attempt to enhance bilateral ties with Iran. There have been high-level visits by civil and military leaders from both sides occurring with some frequency, with the recent visit of Iranian FM Javad Zarif’s being the latest attempt to enhance ties between the two. However, the editorial points out that this visit comes at an interesting time and lists out three issues.

First, the US’s open hostility to Iran, in this context, Islamabad must chart a relationship with Tehran that is mutually beneficial, and based on the interests of Pakistan first and foremost.

Second, progress on the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, although the Iranian side has completed its share of work on the project, Pakistan has not, primarily due to the threat of American sanctions, in this regard, the issue must be included in Pakistan’s foreign policy agenda when dialogue opens with the Biden administration.

Third, the issue of kidnappings of Iranian security personnel, allegedly by militants operating in the border area. Although Pakistan’s security forces have cooperated to help recover several Iranian personnel, the editorial says that as stated by the PM Imran Khan, seeking regional peace as well as other effort, relations with Iran can be improved greatly. (“Iranian FM’s visit,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

There are new geopolitical dynamics in the area say The Nation  
An editorial in The Nation says that the current visit of the Zarif to Pakistan appears to be an opportunity for collaboration on bilateral and regional issues. In this context, the editorial says that Pakistan must expand on this development. Further, it stated “regional cooperation is the name of the game, particularly in the South Asian region currently. With the new US-Indian bilateral agreement, countered by China and Iran’s joint efforts in the UN, there are new geopolitical dynamics in the area, and Pakistan has to identify the new trends, and strengthen and build new alliances.” (“Regional Cooperation,” The Nation, 13 November 2020)

 

The second wave of coronavirus hits Pakistan
Highest single-day COVID-19 deaths recorded in four months: NCOC

Image Source: Dawn

On 12 November, the country recorded its highest single-day death toll in four months with 34 deaths. According to the Nation, the latest figures were shown on the National Coronavirus Dashboard of the National Command and Operations Center (NCOC). This comes after the country reported its highest single-day death toll in July.

Further, the NCOC reported that there were 1,808 new cases across the country in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of infections to 349,992. Further, A total of 36,923 tests were conducted across the country, bringing the case positivity rate to 6.4 per cent. On the other hand, a total of 784 people recovered from the virus during the last 24 hours, bringing the tally of recovered cases to 320,849. (“Country reports highest single-day deaths in 4 months amid 2nd wave,” The Nation, 13 November 2020)

Officials acknowledge the second wave of the COVID-19 in Pakistan
Pakistan has witnessed a steady rise in the coronavirus cases with officials acknowledging that the restrictions to control the rapidly rising second wave of coronavirus infections across the country. Few of the recommendations included limiting all public gatherings to 500 people, including cultural, political, religious, entertainment and civil gatherings. Further, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has already cautioned against the deadly second wave while urging the people to follow the SOPs. (“Pakistan records over 2,000 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours,” The News International, 13 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran accuses Nawaz of treason, claims to have intelligence evidence
On 12 November, Imran Khan said Nawaz Sharif committed ‘high treason’ by targeting the military leadership and claimed he had intelligence reports on Nawaz’s links with India. He termed Nawaz’s accusations against the military an attempt to “incite mutiny in the armed forces.” The statement comes two days after the Army removed officials involved in the affairs of the Sindh Police during the Karachi Incident. He said the incident benefited the PML-N and that he “would not have taken any action against them” as it would overshadow their other grave crimes. (“Nawaz Sharif committed ‘high treason’ at behest of India: PM,” The Express Tribune, 12 November 2020)

Minorities Affairs Ministry issues Diwali ad
The Minorities Affairs Department of Sindh issued a Diwali advertisement highlighting the message of Diwali - “the manifesting of victory of good over bad, illumination over darkness and virtue over vice.” However, the advertisement reminds everyone about the ongoing pandemic urges everyone to follow SOPs during celebrations. (Diwali advertisementDawn, 13 November 2020)

ECONOMY
Remittances in October increase by 14 per cent year-on-year
On 12 November, the State Bank of Pakistan said remittances jumped up 14 per cent from $2 billion in October last fiscal year to $2.28 billion this year. One reason behind this could be the Pakistani rupee’s appreciation against the US dollar. The dollar had lost about 5.8 per cent value since the last week of August. Further, the pandemic brought down outflow as foreign tours, Umrah, education and health services expenses abroad came to a halt. Further, foreign exchange reserves in the SBP increased by “$557.9 million due to receipt of $500 million as government’s loan proceeds.” However, the foreign exchange in the commercial banks "decreased by $4.6 million to $7.166 billion compared to $7.171 billion last week." (Shahid Iqbal, “Remittances jump 14pc to $2.28bn in October,” Dawn, 13 November 2020)

Except for food inflation, the country’s economy is heading in the right direction: PM Khan
On 12 November, PM Imran Khan said that except for food inflation, the country’s economy is heading in the right direction. He added that it is for the first time in recent history that the current account has become surplus. While admitting to the existence of wheat and sugar crises he said, “But I assure you that we have taken effective steps to ensure that this will not happen in future.” Further, the Naya Pakistan Certificates issued for overseas and resident Pakistanis with declared assets abroad offer is to offer “very attractive expected rates of 5.5 to 7 per cent” on dollar investment and “9.5 to 11 per cent” on rupee investment. Further, he directed the authorities to finalise special incentives for setting up Special Technology Zones (STZs) in the country to attract precious foreign investments, saying many talented overseas Pakistanis were interested in investing in the sector. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Economy heading in right direction, says PM,” Dawn, 13 November 2020)

EFF not likely to be on track due to politically challenging issues amid tough economic conditions
The Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of the IMF is unlikely to be back on track in a formal way as the authorities struggle on politically challenging issues, especially the power sector and revenue amid difficult economic conditions. As the two sides are presently working on setting timelines for revised structural benchmarks, the government wants some nascent feel-good factor in some economic indicators to take root before the IMF’s usually contractionary fiscal and monetary stances come into play. Further, the government also wants to extend the support package for construction to continue until June, instead of its expiry in December. This comes in the background of the $6 billion IMF programme being in limbo since January 2020 and second quarterly review of the 39-month facility signed in July 2019 not being completed. (Khaleeq Kiani, “IMF programme unlikely to be back on track soon,” Dawn, 13 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Mainstream political parties do not address problems of GB, says opinion article
An opinion article in The Nation highlights that though the crowd in GB is supporting different mainstream Pakistani parties, the people of GB largely remain voiceless. The author asks what do the election rhetorics of the PTI, PPP or any party matter for GB. For example, PTI’s insistence on bringing back Nawaz from London does not have any impact on GB. He lists out several problems faced by the GB population - lack of access to electricity, healthcare, education and job opportunities. The author wishes that “political parties have mercy on the people of GB and let this election be GB-centric, instead of mainstream noise and the fiery politics of Pakistan.” (Khalid Mahmood Rasool, “Gilgit Baltistan elections,” The Nation, 13 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Extremist Hindu-nationalist BJP real winner in Bihar, says opinion article
An opinion article in The News International says that with the NDA’s win in Bihar, the “extreme right-wing Hindu nationalist BJP emerged as the real winner.” The author says the real loser in the election is Nitish Kumar as his JD(U) lost 28 seats, from 71 in 2015 to 43 this year. He says that Nitish’s dominance in the alliance has reduced and he will be dependent on the BJP for the coming years. Further, the author highlights the performance of the Mahagathbandhan and attributes the RJD’s loss to the Congress’s "lackluster."  Further, he appreciates the performance of the Left-aligned parties and says their “decision to field young working-class candidates including students, farmers and community leaders is paying back.” (Khalid Bhatti, “The real winners,” The News International, 13 November 2020)

SBP’s ban on online payment for Indian content may be aimed at DTH: Former Pemra chief
On 9 November, the SBP directed banks to stop online payments for electronic media content from India, including Zee5 video-on-demand service. Former chairman of Pemra said that the new order could be aimed at online payments for DTH as Indian content had already been banned. Dawn’s sources say the ban was imposed after a Pakistani drama serial, Churails (meaning witches), was broadcast by Zee5. Previously, the serial, seen as too bold, had caused a controversy in Pakistan. Though Zee5 initially agreed to take down the serial for Pakistani audiences, they later restored it. (Shahid Iqbal, “SBP bans online payments for Indian content,” Dawn, 13 November 2020)

 


Survey predicts PTI’s victory in GB elections


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Survey predicts PTI’s victory in GB elections
Maryam asks to elect PML-N for development, Bilawal says PPP will form government in GB
On 11 November, PM Imran Khan said that the recent Gallup Pakistan survey predicted PTI’s victory in the upcoming 15 November Gilgit-Baltistan elections. According to Dawn, during a meeting with his spokespersons, PM Khan conveyed satisfaction regarding the survey’s results and PTI’s GB election campaign. The PM said that PTI would form the government in GB.(“Imran confident of winning GB polls,” Dawn,12 November 2020)

Imran Khan most popular in GB, says survey
As per the survey, PM Khan was the most popular leader in Gilgit-Baltistan followed by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Nawaz Sharif. Of the Gallup respondents, 27 per cent reportedly said they would vote for PTI, 24 per cent for PPP and 14 per cent for PML-N. Also, over 30 per cent of voters believed the elections would be free of rigging and transparent.

Maryam says PM will go home before 2021
Saying that PM Khan would go home before the end of 2020, Maryam Nawaz asked the people of GB to vote for her party for personal and regional development. As per Dawn, saying that the incumbent government did great injustice to Nawaz Sharif, Maryam called PM Khan “a tyrant who had the ghost of revenge and jealousy in his mind”. (“Maryam asks GB people to elect PML-N for development,” Dawn,12 November 2020)

Will not allow anyone to steal votes in GB elections, says Bilawal
Addressing a rally at Gilgit district, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that he will not allow anyone to steal votes of people in Gilgit-Baltistan elections. He said PPP would form government in GB and later in Islamabad.(“Bilawal warns against ‘stealing’ of votes,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

Meanwhile…
PM Khan called for the vigorous confrontation of the opposition and its narratives. The meeting reviewed important issues such as Pakistan’s economy and inflation. Regarding the price hike of wheat and sugar, PM said the Centre and PTI’s two provincial governments were working towards stabilizing the prices. Khan said PTI demanded day to day hearing of the corruption cases against Shahbaz Sharif.
 

Iranian FM holds meetings with PM, FM, army chief
Imran Khan calls for stronger Pak-Iran ties

Image Source: The News International

On 11 November, PM Imran Khan has emphasised that Pakistan and Iran who already share close and cordial relations and must further strengthen bilateral cooperation for mutual benefit. He made this statement during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr Javad Zarif in Islamabad. Furthermore, he called for enhanced bilateral cooperation and emphasised on the importance of bilateral trade, economic relations as well as the need to work closely to promote peace, security, and development in the region. This is Zarif’s fourth visit to Pakistan since the PTI’s government’s rule.

Another border point for trade opened
Zarif announced the opening of a border crossing point with Pakistan for facilitating trade. He wen to on to state that Iran would open the Rimdan crossing point, located about 130km from Chahbahar port in its Sistan and Baluchestan province, next week. Further, he hoped Pakistani authorities would also open their side of the border, the Gabd crossing point for better trade facilitation. He also urged Pakistan to open Pishin-Mand crossing. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Iran to open another border point for trade,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

Zarif, Gen Bajwa agree on enhanced cooperation
Earlier, Zarif met with General Bajwa to discuss regional security as well as matters of mutual interest, including the Afghan reconciliation process, Pak-Iran border management, and border markets. Further, General Bajwa stated that the enhanced Pakistan-Iran cooperation would have a positive impact on regional peace and stability. Zarif appreciated Pakistan’s positive role for regional stability, especially the Afghan peace process while promising to keep working for better relations between two countries.

Iran ‘satisfied’ with Pakistan support, Zarif tells Qureshi
Zarif also arrived at the Foreign Office to meet with FM Qureshi where among other issues, the foreign ministers discussed the coronavirus pandemic situation in both countries. Meanwhile, Zarif said that his country is satisfied with the support they had received from Pakistan. (“PM Imran Khan calls for stronger Pak-Iran ties,” The News International, 12 November 2020)

 

Accountability court indicts Shehbaz, Hamza and eight others in assets case
Suspects pleaded not guilty and decided to contest the trial

Image Source: Dawn

On 11 November, an accountability court indicted Shehbaz Sharif, Hamza Shehbaz and eight other suspects in a Rs7 billion reference of money laundering and assets beyond means. The case reference mainly accused Shehbaz of being a beneficiary of the assets held in the name of his family members and benamidars, who had no sources to acquire such assets. However, all the suspects have pleaded not guilty and decided to contest the trial.

While denying the charges as false and fabricated, Shehbaz stated that he had been victimised on political grounds, adding that all the cases pending against him were engineered by his political opponents. Further, Hamza also denied the charges termed them as politically motivated. With the suspects pleading not guilty, the judge directed the NAB to present its witnesses on the next hearing for their evidence. (“Shehbaz, Hamza, eight others indicted in assets case,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
CCI announces project to tackle malnutrition and stunted growth
On 11 November, the Council of Common Interest approved a Rs 350 billion project to address malnutrition and stunted growth among children over the next five years. The project will target “5 million women of the reproductive age group and 3.9 million children under the age of two.” The federal government will fund 50 per cent of the amount and the remaining amount will be funded by provincial governments. The federal government funds will be used for nutrition and supplementary essentials, capacity building of healthcare workers and research. The provinces will provide human resources through community and lady health workers. (Syed Irfan Raza, “CCI approves project to tackle malnutrition among children,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

Jang Group editor released after furnishing bond 
On 11 November, the Jang Group’s Editor-in-Chief Mir Shakilur Rehman was released after he furnished a Rs 10 million bond and two sureties with an accountability court. The NAB had arrested Rehman on March 12 in a 34-year-old land allotment reference. On 9 November, the SC granted bail to Rehman. (“Jang group editor released from jail,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
PTI leaders reject US Embassy apologies on unintentional Tweet
On 12 November, Shahbaz Gill and other ministers criticised the US Embassy in Islamabad for its Twitter faux pas wherein the Embassy retweeted a post criticising the Pakistani government and Trump. Gill and Sindh Governor said it was unacceptable that the embassy endorsed derogatory comments about the two leaders. The Governor said this was beyond diplomatic protocols. Earlier on the same day, a Pakistani had commented on Washington Post’s article - Trump’s defeat is a blow for the world’s demagogues and dictators - that “We have one (demagogue/dictator) in Pakistan too. He will be shown way out soon. Insha Allah!” This comment was retweeted by the US Embassy. (“US Embassy in Islamabad apologises for Twitter gaffe: Sorry not sufficient, says PTI,” The News International, 12 November 2020)

ECONOMY
Remittances cross $2 billion for fifth consecutive month: SBP
On 12 November, the State Bank of Pakistan data showed that remittances during October rose 14.1 per cent year-on-year to $2.3 billion. According to the SBP press release, workers’ remittances crossed $2 billion for the fifth consecutive month. The SBP attributed the growth to structural improvements in Pakistan’s foreign exchange under the Pakistan Remittances Initiative (PRI) formalising the flows and limiting cross-border travel. Saudi Arabia, UAE and UK were the top three sources of remittances in October. (Fayaz Hussain, “October remittances grow 14pc, rising for fifth straight month,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

ON CPEC
Government’s refusal to address questions on CPEC Authority worrisome, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn written in light of the CPEC Authority fiasco says it is ironic that the Authority “created to inject momentum into CPEC projects and streamline the initiative’s policymaking process” is caught up in a storm because the government did not take necessary steps to ensure the legislation’s timely passage. It says the government’s reluctance to address the queries of the parliamentarians raises concerns about transparency. It says the delay will convey a negative image to China “at a time when the multibillion-dollar CPEC initiative, hit by a sharp slowdown for the last three years, is expected to pick up momentum.” The editorial urges the government to address the parliamentarians’ concerns and ensure that qualified people are appointed for the job. (“Status of CPEC Authority,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

ON COVID-19
Pakistani experts say premature to celebrate Pfizer vaccine
Top government scientist from Pakistan have stated that the Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine is not suitable for developing countries due to cold storage requirements. Further, the head of the Task Force on Science and Technology stated that it would be premature for Pakistan and other developing nations to celebrate Pfizer's announcement. The same concerns were reiterated by the SAPM on Health who said, “It will be a major challenge for us to maintain the cold chain of the vaccine. Our cold chain system may not cater to the temperature so we will have to make arrangements to maintain the temperature during nationwide supplies.” These statements came after Pfizer Inc announced its shot, jointly developed with BioNTech SE, was more than 90 per cent effective based on initial trial results. (“Is Pfizer’s vaccine the answer to Pakistan’s Covid-19 problem?,” Dawn, 12 November 2020)

 

 


Army takes action against the officials from the ISI and Rangers


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
The “Karachi Incident”
Army takes action against the officials from the ISI and Rangers
 
On 10 November, the Pakistan Army announced the removal of officers from the ISI and Pakistan Rangers, Sindh, after finding them acting “overzealously” in the alleged kidnapping of the Sindh IG which had caused a “misunderstanding between two institutions.” The development comes after General Bajwa promised to look into the matter following complaints from the opposition and police officers’ request for long leave in protest against the alleged kidnapping of the Sindh IG last month. (Imran Ayub, “ISI, Rangers men removed over IG issue,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

Quotable
“They [ISI and Rangers officers] were indeed experienced enough to have acted more prudently and could have avoided creating an unwarranted situation that led to misunderstanding between the two state institutions. Based on the recommendations of the Court of Inquiry, it has been decided to remove the concerned officers from their current assignments for further departmental proceedings and disposal at GHQ,” read the ISPR statement according to the Dawn.

Bilawal hails ‘step to fortify institutions prestige’, Nawaz termed the inquiry report a “cover-up"
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari welcomed the action taken by the army chief against the perpetrators of the Karachi incident. In this regard, he said, “this step will fortify the prestige of institutions,” adding, “such processes should continue for the sake of democracy as this step will fortify the prestige of institutions. This is just the beginning; this process must continue for the sake of democracy.”
On the other hand, Nawaz Sharif in a tweet termed the report as a “cover-up”, saying, “Inquiry report on Karachi incident is a cover-up scapegoating juniors & shielding the real culprits. Report ‘Rejected’.” (“COAS action on Karachi incident: Bilawal accepts, Nawaz rejects,” The News International, 11 November 2020)

Security institutions must disengage from civilian affairs says an editorial 
An editorial in the Dawn although critical of the incident says the probe has at least had some consequences for the perpetrators. However, concerning the report, it states that this should not be the end of the matter. Junior officers, however zealous, would not act on their own initiative without a green signal from higher-ups. The editorial points out that the near-catastrophic fallout of this episode shows the threats of this chain of command being disturbed. The editorial says that the military has unnecessarily been dragged into an ugly political fracas, one in which its reputation could have done without. The editorial recommends that security institutions should disengage from civilian affairs. (“‘Karachi incident’,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

 

On the CPEC Authority Bill 
MNA asks tough questions in the Parliament: Are we dummies?

Image Source: Dawn

On 10 October, following the government’s statement that the CPEC authority had no Chairman, Members of the National Assembly sought explanations from the Ministry of Planning and Development. 

MNA asks “Are we dummies? What kind of law making are we doing?”
MNA Syed Agha Rafiullah raised questions about the legality of the Authority as the CPEC Ordinance had lapsed in May 2020. Seeking a written clarification from the Planning Ministry on the issue, he asked “Are we dummies? What kind of law making are we doing?” Other MNAs raised similar questions to which the Planning and Development Secretary Mathar Rana responded that there is no Chairman for the Authority. 
Further, the NA Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives enquired about the status of the incumbent and asked whether he was enjoying any perks. After confirming with CPEC Authority officers, the Secretary denied any perks for the incumbent. 

No MoU signed on behalf of CPEC Authority, says Rana
Keeping in mind the lapse of the Ordinance, the Standing Committee members also asked if any MoU was signed on behalf of the CPEC Authority. While confirming that no MoU was signed, Rana assured he would take up the matter with the minister. Further, he said the CEO post of the CPEC Authority will be scrapped and the chairman will lead the CPEC under the CPEC Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2020. The Standing Committee members requested time to study the bill and it has been deferred to another date. (Khaleeq Kiani, “No CPEC Authority Chairman at present, NA panel told,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

 

Speaker cancels security briefing amid opposition’s boycott
Qaiser accused of constantly suppressing opposition’s voice

Image Source: Dawn

On 10 November, National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser cancelled the parliamentary leaders’ briefing by military officials on the current issues of national security after the opposition parties decided not to attend it. The National Assembly Secretariat through a tweet announced the decision to cancel the meeting officially without mentioning any reason. This is the second time in six weeks that the speaker had to cancel a meeting of the parliamentary leaders.

The opposition’s decision to boycott the meeting was announced by information secretary of the PDM who said, “The constituent parties of the PDM will not attend the parliamentary leaders’ meeting that has been convened on Nov 11. The decision has been made by PDM president Maulana Fazlur Rehman after consultation with all the component parties of the alliance.” Further, the secretary also accused Qaiser of being biased and “suppressing the opposition’s voice in the National Assembly.” However, a spokesman for the speaker rejected the opposition’s allegations and termed them “factually incorrect.” (Amir Wasim, “Speaker cancels security briefing after opposition’s boycott,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)


In Brief
ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
PPP, PML-N, PTI throw allegation at each other in GB election rallies
With the election campaign across Gilgit-Baltistan is in full swing, Bilawal, Maryam and Federal Minister Murad Saeed have continued to address rallies in different parts of the region. Addressing a public meeting Maryam said that attempts were being made to steal votes, adding, “People should get rid of the worst rulers. This government has committed injustice with GB people.” Similarly, Bilawal said that Imran Khan took U-turns and went back on all his promises adding, “He will do this again.” Meanwhile, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Zulfi Bukhari has come to run election campaigns for PTI candidates. While rejected the allegations about pre-poll rigging, he said that Bilawal and Maryam feared defeat. Further, he said that the PTI would form the government in GB. (“PPP, PML-N, PTI trade allegations in GB election rallies,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

Survey shows that the PTI is ahead of PPP, PML-N in GB polls
Two surveys conducted by Gallup Pakistan and Pulse Consultant have put PTI ahead of the PPP, while the PML-N has been placed at the third position. The surveys have shown that the upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be very closely contested between the PTI and PPP. The surveys show that PM Imran Khan is the most popular leader in GB followed by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Nawaz Sharif. Further, around 30 per cent of voters believe elections will be transparent and free of rigging. About the provincial status, the Gallup survey shows that 66 per cent of the locals are in favour of converting GB into a province, 28 per cent were against it. (“PTI ahead of PPP, PML-N in GB polls: surveys,” The News International, 11 November 2020)

330 candidates to contests for 33-member GB Assembly
330 candidates are set to contest for the 33-member Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly. These candidates would either be representing one of the 14 officially registered and recognised political parties of Gilgit-Baltistan or would be pitching themselves an independent candidate. Further, more than 700,000 voters will be exercising their right of franchise to elect 24 candidates in general elections, where leaders of all top national political parties are currently busy delivering fiery speeches against each other and making pledges and promises ahead of the polls. (Sabir Shah, “330 candidates to vie for 33-member GB Assembly on 15th,” The News International, 11 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Dawn editorial wants India “to seriously consider reopening the corridor”
An editorial in the Dawn critical of India’s stance on the Kartarpur Corridor states that politics and rigidity on the Indian side have ensured that the dream of this ‘peace corridor’ remains unfulfilled. Further, the editorial states that it appears that India’s concerns are less about health and safety amid the pandemic and more about maintaining a confrontational posture with Pakistan. In this regard, it states that once the pandemic subsides, both states must work on giving easier access to religious visitors from across the border, adding that this would help play a role in reducing levels of mistrust and hatred through people-to-people contact. (“Pilgrimage politics,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Foreign Office issues statement on Nagorno-Karabakh agreement 
On 10 November, the Foreign Office issued a statement welcoming the Russia-brokered agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The statement said Pakistan had always "supported the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute" in accordance with UNSC resolutions.” (“Pakistan hails Russian-brokered deal to end military conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh region,” The Express Tribune, 11 November 2020)

Iran’s FM arrives for a two-day visit
On 11 November, Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif arrived in Islamabad on a two-day visit. The FO said that this visit would help deepen deepening bilateral cooperation and developing a better understanding of each other’s perspective on regional issues. The FM is accompanied by senior officials, including Iran’s special envoy for Afghanistan. This is Mr Zarif’s fourth visit to Pakistan over the last two and a half years. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Iran’s FM arrives in Islamabad on two-day visit,” Dawn, 11 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Editorial hopes Biden will bridge gaps with countries once close to the US
An editorial in The News International outlines the various foreign policy challenges ahead for President-elect Biden. According to the editorial, the main challenges lay in Iran, Latin America, the Paris Climate Treaty. It highlights the isolationist policies and indifference of Trump to countries once close to the US. It says, “It is likely that Biden will go back to these and set a new order in which the US is linked in a better fashion to other nations it once had extremely close ties with.” Next, the editorial highlights another problem - the UN funding. Recently, the UN said it would have to cut down salaries of its workers as Trump had cut off $300 million once paid to it. It says while countries like Saudi Arabia were able to bridge the gap in funding in 2019, they may not be able to do the same this year due to the pandemic. Therefore, it uges Biden to examine these problems. (“Building bridges,” The News International, 11 November 2020)

Pakistan will have to balance between US and China, says opinion article
An opinion article in The Express Tribune highlights the “damaging” aspects of Trump’s presidency on the national level and the foreign policy level. The author says Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO and withholding of funds from global organisations reflected his contempt towards them. He expects that Biden will “restore the dignity and effectiveness of these world bodies and resume funding” to them. Further, the author says “South Asia would remain a theatre of major power rivalry” between the US and China. He says Pakistan will have to incorporate a functional relationship with the US while maintaining close relations with China. (Talat Masood, “The impact of US elections,” The Express Tribune, 11 November 2020)

 


"The military has unnecessarily been dragged into an ugly political fracas, one that its reputation could well have done without. Security institutions must disengage from civilian affairs; therein lies the path of least controversy.”
-Editorial on the 'Karachi Incident', Dawn

 


COAS and DG-ISI to brief the Parliament


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 10 November 2020
A military briefing to the Parliamentarians
Asad Qaiser, the Speaker of the National Assembly, has called for a special meeting tomorrow (Wednesday) of the Parliament for a briefing by the "military officials on the current issues of national security." It is expected that the Chief of Army Staff (Gen Qamar Bajwa) and the Director-General of the ISI (Lt Gen Faiz Hameed) would address the Parliamentarians to give an update on the current security situation.

What is the "security situation" for Pakistan, that warrants a briefing by the Army and ISI Chiefs to the elected members of the Parliament? Second, is it a briefing, or an instruction?

Despite the government leaders, starting from the Prime Minister, ridiculing the Opposition led – Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the PTI is apprehensive of the former. The latter has generated massive crowd during the recent weeks in Gujranwala, Karachi and Quetta. While the PTI expects frictions within the PDM and even engage in propaganda that the latter has started breaking up already, except for a few (including a retired military official), PML-N has not faced any major divide.

For the Establishment, the government-opposition divide is acceptable, if it is within its ambit of influence and does not affect its standing. Clearly, that is not the case now. Statements from Nawaz Sharif are targeting not only Imran Khan and the PTI, but also the Establishment. Imran and his PTI leaders, repeatedly refer to the PDM targeting the "institutions" (meaning the Establishment), thereby bringing the latter into their fight with the Opposition. Whether the PDM really target the Establishment or not, the government wants to make it as a part of its propaganda against the former. If the present trajectory continues, it would be the Establishment that would face more mud on its face.

The other major issue is the impending elections in Gilgit-Baltistan. While the PTI and the Opposition differ on other issues, there seems to be some convergence on the idea of providing provincial status to the region. It could be rhetoric, or Pakistan wants to consider the option seriously, as a response to India altering the situation in J&K. A provincial status for GB would impact its global position on the UNSC resolutions, CPEC interests and also Islamabad relationship with the "AJK". A few weeks earlier, there were reports about a meeting between the Establishment and the Opposition on the same issue. So, the Establishment may want to convey what it wants on GB to the Parliament
 
In Focus
Military officials to brief parliament tomorrow 
Main objective is to develop a national consensus on the status of GB
 
On 9 November, National Assembly Speaker scheduled a crucial meeting of the parliamentary leaders in the National Assembly and the Senate for a briefing by “military officials on the current issues of national security” for 11 November. According to the Dawn, the main objective of the briefing is to build a national consensus on granting “provisional provincial status” Gilgit-Baltistan. The briefing is expected to be conducted by Gen Bajwa and Lt-Gen Faiz Hameed. However, there has been no confirmation from the government or the army’s ISPR. 

Opposition to take a call today 
Meanwhile, PML-N and PPP declared that they had not yet decided about participation in the briefing. PLM-N vice president stated, “We have already announced to boycott any meeting under the National Assembly speaker. The party believes that it should not participate in the briefing. However, the final decision in this regard will be made after consultation with the other parties of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).” Further, PML-N’s parliamentary leader in the National Assembly is to consult with the leaders of other PDM member parties to make a final decision.

Previously, when the Speaker called for a meeting on the coming GB elections, the opposition parties criticized the Speaker stating neither the speaker nor the federal government has a role in the elections for the GB Legislative Assembly. Further, a member from the opposition said the opposition had categorically told the government and the army chief that any move before the elections would be considered a ‘pre-poll rigging.’ (Amir Wasim, “Military officials to brief lawmakers tomorrow,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

Provincial status to be granted after the elections 
On 1 November, PM Imran Khan announced that his government has decided to grant provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan, keeping in view the UN Security Council resolutions. Further, PM Khan went on to congratulate the people of GB over the development. Further, while responding to the remarks from the opposition he said, the fact that the opposition was criticising the chiefs of Pakistan Army and ISI proved that he had appointed the right people to the posts. (“Opposition speaking against army, ISI chiefs proves my selection was absolutely right: PM Imran,” Dawn, 2 November 2020)

However, as stated by a key minister, it was on the request of the opposition parties that the government agreed to initiate the process of consultations on the proposal to convert the GB into a province after the elections, as the opposition believed that if such a move was initiated now then the PTI could take political advantage of it in the upcoming elections.

 

On Jadhav, Kartarpur and Junagarh
Islamabad High Court on Jadhav; complaint on India's position to reopen Kartarpur corridor; and the Nawab of Junagarh's request to Imran Khan

Image Source: Dawn

On 9 November, the Islamabad High Court “assured the Indian High Commission’s lawyer of a fair trial” of Kulbhushan Jadhav. The Court also “suggested a third consular access to implement the ICJ directive for review and reconsideration of conviction.” Further, the bench suggested providing the lawyer necessary documents on court martial proceedings against Jadhav. Previously, he was denied these documents for not having a paper of attorney or from the Indian High Commission.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General accused India of double standards in case of Jadhav compared to other convicted Indians.  He said the “Indian government had recently filed a petition for the release of eight convicts, but in the Jadhav case it expressed fear of compromising sovereign immunity.” (Malik Asad, “IHC suggests third consular access for Jadhav,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

Indian side yet to reopen Kartarpur corridor
On 9 November, the first anniversary of the Kartarpur Corridor’s inauguration, Pakistan “regretted the Indian government’s unwillingness to reopen it” which disrupted the Indian Sikhs’ pilgrimage. Earlier, India had temporarily closed the corridor on 16 March in the light of the COVID-19 outbreak. 

Previously, Pakistan had requested to mutually reopen the corridor from 29 June. Indian officials were also invited for discussing safety protocols for pilgrims. However, according to a Dawn report, the Indian side is yet to reopen the corridor. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “India preventing pilgrims from visiting Gurdwara Darbar Saheb: FO,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

Junagarh will remain a part of Pakistan, says Nawab
On 9 November, Nawab of Junagarh Muhammad Jahangir Khanji said a secretariat of Junagarh should be established in Islamabad to build closer ties with Pakistan. He requested Imran Khan to be Junagarh's ambassador at all international platforms and push for its liberation from “Indian occupation.” He remarked Junagarh observes 9 November as a black day because in 1947 India occupied Junagarh on the same date and insisted that “Junagarh was part of Pakistan and it would remain so.” (“PM urged to highlight India’s occupation of Junagarh,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

 

On US Elections
The US knows that engagement with Pakistan is necessary: Opinion

Image Source: Dawn

An opinion in the Dawn highlighting the new realities of the US-Pakistan relation which are post-US withdrawal Afghanistan, developments within India, India’s provocations vis-à-vis China and its aggressiveness towards Pakistan, and global transitions. In this regard, the opinion says, Joe Biden, knows that this calls for engagement with Pakistan within a framework of cooperation where convergence and divergence of policies are reconciled and the two countries’ core interests safeguarded to support a sustainable long-term relationship. The opinion concludes by stating that although the period defined by aid is over, an enhanced economic partnership is possible depending on Pakistan’s economy, adding that the future of the bilateral relationship lies both in the hands of both countries. (Touqir Hussain, “Post-Trump ties,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

No one understands Pakistan better than Biden: Opinion
An opinion brings out three points highlighting what Biden’s administration would mean for Pakistan. First, Joe Biden will enter the White House with the strong belief that he knows Pakistan better than any US president. Second, Biden’s primary lens for Pakistan will be a combination of three administration priorities: withdrawal from Afghanistan, containment of China and nuclear stability and security for Pakistan. Third, Pakistan must understand both the irreversibility of US-India relations and the limits of these relations. In conclusion, the opinion says, Pakistan would have a natural advantage in dealing with Biden’s administration, given the country’s strong commitment to multilateralism as well as PM Khan’s demonstrated interest in climate change and anti-corruption. (Mosharraf Zaidi, “Preparing for President Biden,” The News International, 10 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
ANP accepts jirga’s apology on Interior Minister’s remarks
On 9 November, the Awami National Party (ANP) withdrew their decision to march to Islamabad after a jirga of federal ministers apologised over the Interior Minister’s remarks. The Minister said he was thankful to the ANP for accepting the jirga’s apology and reiterated that his words were taken out of context. Earlier, the ANP had decided to march to the capital over the Minister’s alleged remarks that ANP workers were killed by Taliban because of their opposition to the outfit. (“ANP withdraws decision to march on Islamabad after apology from govt jirga,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

PDM is not just divided but confused too says an editorial 
An editorial in the Express Tribune states that the PDM is not just divided but confused too. It states that the challenge for the PDM is two-fold: to agree on a common political narrative and to stay intact. Although the PPP and PLM-N share allegations with other PDM members of the PM being a puppet, the former is not on board with the latter’s “revolutionary” narrative which not only targets the establishment but also pinpoints personalities. Trying to mend this gap is Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who tilt towards the PML-N’s stance, however, here again, a difference of opinion exists within the Maulana’s own party over Nawaz’s no holds barred rhetoric. In the regard, the editorial says that the PDM is not only divided but confused, with the crack getting more visible. (“Cracks in PDM,” The Express Tribune, 10 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
COAS meets Chinese envoy
On 9 November, COAS General Bajwa met the new Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong at the General Headquarters. According to the ISPR Director General, the two discussed matters of mutual interest and regional security issues. Further, Nong Rong appreciated Pakistan’s role in conflict prevention in the region. (“COAS, Chinese envoy discuss regional security,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

Iranian delegation to arrive in Islamabad today
On 10 November (today), the Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif will arrive in Islamabad for a two-day visit to review bilateral relations and discuss regional issues. The Iranian delegation also includes Iran’s special envoy for Afghanistan Mohammad Ibrahim Taheriyan. This would be Taheriyan’s first visit to Islamabad as Iranian envoy to Afghanistan. (“Iranian foreign minister arrives today on two-day visit,” Dawn, 10 November 2020)

Opinion piece highlights possible impacts of China’s dual-circulation strategy on Pakistan
An opinion article in The Express Tribune says China’s dual-circulation strategy for the economy is apt given the global trade scenario during the pandemic. Under this strategy, China will promote domestic economic growth and focus on the international economic cycle as an add-on. The author says that by refusing to fight on the “global trade battleground set by the US,” China is “carving out a new arena for itself,” and this will have an impact on Pakistan. For example, CPEC will have less focus on new loans for infrastructure and more on other areas. The author says the Chinese Ambassador reiterated this by mentioning cooperation in “industrial development, agriculture, science and technology, information, and livelihood” but not infrastructure. He says, in the upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee meeting on CPEC, Pakistan should understand the dual-circulation strategy and focus on cooperating on the above-mentioned areas. Otherwise, the “JCC will remain a progress-tracking routine exercise with little coming out of it.” (Hasaan Khawar, “CPEC and China’s dual circulation approach,” The Express Tribune, 9 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Opinion articles urges government to address GB issue through constitutional amendments
An opinion article in The Express Tribune says Gilgit-Baltistan residents have divided opinion over the provisional provincial status for G-B. He says this trust deficit is a result of political deprivation entrenched in the region over the years. He highlights that the demands of GB have been met by ad hoc based presidential orders; the latest being the 2018 Gilgit-Baltistan Order. The author says though the 2018 order proved to be consequential and empowered GB to an extent, the federal government should start addressing “GB’s constitutional enigma” through  parliament or constitutional amendments, to end “decades-old disenfranchisement of the people of GB.” (Mehdi Hassan Khan, “Towards a constitutional provincial status for G-B,” The Express Tribune, 9 November 2020)

 
 


"PDM is not just divided but confused too. Thus the real challenge for the opposition alliance comes from within.”
-Editorial on the PDM, The Express Tribune

 


On Gilgit-Balitistan elections


Photo: The News



PR Editorial, 9 November 2020
The missing local voice in GB elections
Elections to Gilgit Baltistan generally witnessed a trend. The winner in Islamabad, always take-it-all in GB. Whether it was the PPP or the PML-N in the last two decades, the outcome of the GB elections was dependent on who rules in Islamabad.

For the first time, there is substantial competition in GB, for the impending elections. While the PPP and PML-N had a political presence in the province, for the PTI, it is a new opening. Will it win the elections in GB? If one goes by history, then it would. Imran Khan has also dangled the “provincial status” card to the people of GB. He was in GB recently to campaign for the party. Whether he means it or otherwise, it is a good political strategy to win the local support. The provincial status is something that the people of GB have been demanding.

The PPP government did discuss this earlier, only to shelve it later. However, Bilawal Bhutto, who is now campaigning in the GB reverted to the idea. In an election rally in Hunza, he declared that the PPP would complete the process in getting the provincial status. On Sunday, he warned the people: “There are some puppet and other parties which all have taken a page from the PPP’s constitution and the people of national security are also on your page of creation of a separate province.” He also told them: “We will not let anyone increase your taxes until you come at par with the rest of Pakistan.” Furthermore, he reminded them of PPP’s track record: “Zulfikar Ali Bhutto provided employment by giving you right to free passport so that people can go abroad and make a living for their families. You should vote for PPP because it delivers your demands. We will restore all the people back on jobs who were laid off by other governments.”

While one could see the voices of PTI, PML-N and the PPP during the elections, what is missing is the local voice, local leaders and local parties from GB. While one could hear Pashtun, Punjabi and Sindhi leaders speaking in Gilgit, where are the Balti, Shina and other voices from the region? It never had one. And it was never allowed to have one.

In Focus

On Gilgit-Baltistan elections
Fafen highlights widening gender gap: Maryam fears rigging, while Bilawal promises provincial status

On 9 November, Free and Fair Election Network (Fafen) in its report titled, “Women in Elections: Analysis of Registered Voters in GB” found that the highest gender gap of 10 per cent in Diamer division, followed by Baltistan division where gender gap rose to eight per cent and Gilgit division where the eight per cent gender gap remained unchanged.
According to the Dawn, the report cited that while the voters’ list for 2020 elections in Gilgit-Baltistan reflects a remarkable achievement of registering 126,997 new voters which is a 21 per cent increase, women’s representation continues to decline, as a result, the gender gap in the figures of registered voters has widened. Further, at present 17 constituencies have a gender gap ranging between five per cent and 10 per cent while only three constituencies have less than five per cent gender gap. Out of 745,361 voters on the 2020 Gilgit-Baltistan voters’ list, 339,998 (46 per cent) are women. The gender gap is highest Diamer, Shigar, Nagar and Skardu districts, with Hunza being the only district with a drop in the gender gap. (Amir Wasim, “Gender gap among GB voters widens: Fafen,” Dawn, 9 November 2020)

GB administration seeks help from Punjab Constabulary’s amid the upcoming election
The GB administration has requested for more than 2,000 extra police personnel from Punjab Constabulary to strengthen security during the upcoming general elections to be held in the region. According to the Dawn, the commandant of Punjab Constabulary, Farooqabad, asked the battalion commanders of Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan and Faisalabad to ensure availability of personnel for the upcoming election for GB assembly. Further, 2,353 Punjab Constabulary personnel will be sent to GB for performing duty during the elections. (Mohammad Asghar, “GB seeks Punjab Constabulary’s help for elections’ security,” Dawn, 9 November 2020)

Bilawal promises to make GB a province and give constitutional rights to the people
On 8 November, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated that his party would make GB a province and give constitutional rights to those living there. While reiterating the long relationship between the people of GB and the PPP he said, “We will together establish separate province for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and will provide employment to the youth of the area.” Further, he stated, “As long as your voice is not heard in Islamabad, nothing will be solved. You will have to vote for the party which gives you your rights,” adding, “There are some puppet and other parties which all have taken a page from the PPP’s constitution and the people of national security are also on your page of creation of a separate province.” Further, lashing out at the PTI he stated, “The people also condemned this minister's foul language which is against the traditions of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.” (“Bilawal promises to complete task of establishing GB province,” The News International, 9 November 2020)

Maryam fears that the government plans to rig the GB elections
On 8 November, Maryam Nawaz alleged that the government had planned to rig GB elections. She went on to warned, “If the elections are rigged, we will not accept results.” In this regard, Maryam said that the “People of Gilgit-Baltistan should thwart the plan of poll rigging by casting their votes to the lion (the election symbol of the PML-N). You have to vote and you have to safeguard your vote.” Further, while criticising PM Imran Khan she states that his “days are numbered as his fake government is about to go home,” while adding, “If anyone would make GB a province, it would be Nawaz Sharif.” (Jamil Nagri, “Maryam fears rigging in GB electionsDawn, 9 November 2020)

Stark realities from Hunza Valley: Opinion
An opinion in the Dawn critical of the unjust application of the Anti-Terrorism Act brings the lurk undertone of the people in the Hunza Valley. The opinion says that behind the shimmer and the glow of natural beauty and the people are grievances and pain which the people have carried for decades. Of the many grievances, since the last nine years, the families of incarcerated men are struggling to get their loved ones freed from this unjust imprisonment. Further, the youth are dissatisfied with the lack of education and facilities in the region. The area has no representation in the National Assembly, leading to further alienation due to the lack of participation, further, the people are not expectant of the new order bring in change. In this regard, the opinion concluded by stating that nothing alienates more than unjust, cruel treatment carried by state, it is more likely that the people can endure decades-long marginalisation, exploitation and neglect but not the unjust application of the Anti-Terrorism Act. (Zeenat Hisam, “Two sides of Hunza Valley,” Dawn, 9 November 2020


On Pakistan Democratic Movement:
Opposition is looking for a fresh charter; Government calls it as Pakistan Dacoit Movement

Image Source: Dawn

 

On November 8, the PDM announced it would draft a new charter while “observing that the objective of the PDM was restoration of real democracy in the true spirit of the Constitution.” Maulana Fazlur addressed the media after presiding over a meeting with other heads of the PDM alliance. In the meeting PML-N’s Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the charter will explain the demands of the PDM. He reiterated Nawaz Sharif’s argument that the PDM aims to “change the system and not the removal of the present government”.

The PDM’s steering committee will meet in Islamabad on Nov 13 in which all the parties’ representatives will present their recommendations. (“PDM to work on fresh ‘charter of democracy’,” Dawn, 9 November 2020)

Ministers criticise the PDM,  call it the Pakistan Dacoit Movement
On November 8, federal ministers and PTI leaders termed the PDM as ‘Pakistan dacoit movement.” Information Minister Shibli Faraz said the Opposition were clueless and were shooting arrows in the dark. He said any movement that needs a new charter has no future. Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan said “those who hatch conspiracies to weaken state institutions could not be benevolent to the nation.” He said former rulers of Pakistan “plundered the country and put billions of rupees in the accounts of their children.” Punjab Chief Minister and SAPM on Political Communication also lashed out at the Opposition. (“PTI leaders term opposition alliance ‘Pakistan dacoit movement’,” The News International, 9 November 2020)

Editorial criticises PM’s rhetorics, urges leaders to weigh their words carefully
An editorial in Dawn criticises Imran Khan’s speeches in Swat and Hafizabad accusing Nawaz Sharif of attempting a mutiny and coup. Referring to Imran’s calls for civil disobedience before he became the PM, it says Imran “should recall his own words before hurling accusations at the opposition today.” Further, the editorial refers to Bilawal’s BBC interview which created some heat. It says in today’s polarised atmosphere, “nuances get lost in the constant noise of shouting. All leaders need to weigh their words carefully.” ("Politicians’ words," Dawn, 9 November 2020)


 

Another minority killing in Peshawar again
Ahmadiya community spokesperson claims this is a result of an ongoing hate campaign

Image Source: Dawn



 

On 8 November, an elderly man belonging to a religious minority was gunned down by an unidentified attacker at a bus stop in Peshawar. The victim was waiting at the bus stop when he came under attack. The FIR was filed by the deceased’s brother, who stated that he reached the place of occurrence and found the body of his brother lying there. He said his brother was attacked by an unknown killer or killers for an unexplained motive, adding that they had no enmity with anyone.
Later, a spokesperson for the Ahmadiya community claimed that the murder was a direct result of an ongoing hate campaign against the community. Further, the spokesperson said this was the fourth such incident in Peshawar against the community members over the past four months.

Previous incidents
Earlier in July, Tahir Ahmad Naseem, an American national, was killed inside a courtroom at the Peshawar Judicial Complex by a teenager. The killer and his two facilitators, including a junior lawyer and a cleric, are facing trial by an anti-terrorism court inside the Peshawar central prison.
Later in August, the owner of a medical store, who belonged to the Ahmadiya community, was killed inside his shop in the Dabgari area by an unidentified gunman.
Then in October, unidentified gunmen shot dead a professor Dr Naeemuddin Khattak, belonging to the Ahmadi community, in the Wazir Bagh area of Peshawar. The murder was linked to an argument over religion. Further, the initial investigation suggested that Khattak was killed over his religious beliefs.("Minority community member killed in Peshawar," Dawn, 9 November 2020)

Persecution of the Ahmadiya community 
Ahmadis have long faced persecution in Pakistan. The government's refusal to include the Ahmadis in the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) was a major setback for the community. Till date, Pakistan's Ahmadi community has been living under threat. Lately, the Ahmadi community in Peshawar is being hunted down. There have been several attacks on Ahmadis in the city since July 2020 with organised hate campaign being launched resulting in the killing of Ahmadis. (“Minorities in Pakistan: Violence against the Ahmadis in Pakistan,” Pakistan Reader, 20 October 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
NCOC issues guidelines for weddings
On 6 November, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has issued new guidelines for wedding ceremonies amid surging COVID-19 cases. The new guidelines reiterate mandatory social distancing, masks and sanitisers, and also restrict the duration of events to two hours. The guidelines permit only outdoor weddings and limits the number of guests to 1000. Meanwhile, health experts have criticised the government’s decisions and said allowing 1000 guests is unacceptable, especially when “90 per cent of the country have started ignoring SOPs.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Alarming rise in Covid-19 cases spells fresh curbs on weddings,” Dawn, 9 November 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pak-Russia military exercise kicks off
On 8 November, the opening ceremony of the Pakistan-Russia military exercise, Druzhba-V, was held in Tarbela. The exercise is a part of a bilateral defence cooperation pact signed six years ago. Russian Ambassador to Pakistan and senior officials from both armies were present at the ceremony. (“Pak-Russia military exercise begins at Tarbela,” The News International, 9 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Pandemic, economy immediate concerns for Biden, says editorial
An editorial in The News International highlights the key challenges that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have ahead of them. The editorial says the biggest challenge for Biden would be “to help the US heal and bridge some of the very wide differences and polarisation” that shaped the country over the last four years. The editorial further lists out immediate challenges which include the domestic handling of the pandemic and the economy and global concerns include Trump’s role in “trivialising the climate change question.” The editorial says there is some optimism for Pakistan as Biden promulgated the Enhanced Partnership Act with Pakistan 2008. Further, the two countries have a common agenda in the Afghan peace. It says that though a Biden Administration may not reduce the US interest in India, it may push for better human rights “which is what people in Occupied Kashmir and even in mainstream India may be looking at.” (“President-elect Biden,” The News International, 9 October 2020)

Opinion article highlights the way forward for US foreign policy 
In an opinion article in Dawn, Maleeha Lodhi lays out the domestic and foreign policy challenges for Biden. She expects that Biden will pave the way for stability in foreign policy, restoring multilateralism, re-entering the JCPOA, “re-engagement with key international institutions, return to the Paris climate agreement and recommitment to alliances especially Nato.” She says China’s relations with the US will continue to be the biggest challenge. She expects that though Biden will continue “to engage in strategic competition — and containment —he will be less combative and abrasive than Trump and look for areas of cooperation on global issues such as climate change.” (Maleeha Lodhi, “Post-Trump US foreign policy,” Dawn, 9 November 2020)

 
 

 

 

"As long as your voice is not heard in Islamabad, nothing will be solved. You will have to vote for the party which gives you your rights.”
-PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari during his campaign in GB

 

 


Bilawal tells BBC that Nawaz Sharif’s fiery PDM speech “shocked” him


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Bilawal tells BBC that Nawaz Sharif’s fiery PDM speech “shocked” him
Cannot control what Nawaz says, says Bhutto

During an interview with BBC Urdu on 6 November, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari revealed that PML-N supreme leader Nawaz Sharif's speech at Pakistan Democratic Movement's (PDM) first rally in Gujranwala, wherein Nawaz named Pakistan military’s highest echelons for orchestrating his ouster and interfering in politics, “shocked” him. "It was a shock for me because, typically, we don't talk like this at rallies. But Nawaz heads his own party and I can't control what he says, just like he can't control what I say," he said. Bilawal was referring to Nawaz Sharif’s fiery “state above a state” speech, in which he accused the Establishment of ousting him and “bringing Imran Khan into power”. Nawaz named the Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Lt Gen Faiz Hameed the orchestrators. Bilawal also discussed the 11-party opposition alliance and the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections. (“Bilawal says was ‘shocked’ by Nawaz’s address at PDM’s Gujranwala rally,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

Nawaz wouldn’t make such allegations with evidence, says Bhutto
Resignation of the top military leadership not part of PPP’s demands and does not reflect their position, explained Bilawal. He explained that it was PML-N and Nawaz’s “personal decision”. “But Nawaz has the right to take such a stand if he so wishes,” he added. Bilawal said that neither Nawaz Sharif nor his party had mentioned the naming of the Army and ISI chiefs while discussing the PDM’s agenda. He said “During the all-parties conference, there was debate on whether the blame should be laid on one institution or the entire establishment… it was decided that a single institution would not be named, the establishment would,” he added. However, Bilawal further stated that Nawaz, who has served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister for three terms, would not make such allegations against COAS Gen Bajwa and Gen Faiz without evidence.

PML-N says Nawaz’s remarks were based on facts
Shortly after Bilawal’s interview was published, PML-N leader and Nawaz's spokesperson Mohammad Zubair issued an official statement saying PML-N respected Bilawal’s stance and emphasizing that Nawaz’s statement was based on facts and PML-N’s experience. “This is obvious that it did not happen with the PPP. We think it is important to inform the people about what happened to ensure civilian supremacy so that what happened in the past is not repeated in the future,” the statement added.

Interview sets Media ablaze
“Does this amount to Bilawal cleaving the opposition alliance PDM and sabotaging PML-N’s anti-government campaign? Is the Bilawal factor finally kicking in?” asks a Dawn article. “When all eyes are on Imran Khan and Maryam Nawaz, Bilawal may be the man to watch,” it opines. The article states that Bilawal is skillfully juggling competing agendas, in an attempt to secure a PPP victory in GB. However, it identifies persisting issues that will prove hurdles for him: first, the Bhutto-Zardari legacy; second, in the PDM alliance PPP is the only party with a stake in the present scenario; and finally, the larger question – “what does he stand for?” (“The Bilawal factor,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

 

GB Chief Court order on ‘public office’ holders:
Officials told to leave in three days for violating the code of conduct for elections

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 7 November, the Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Court ordered federal ministers and government officials to leave the region in three days. A two-member bench of the GB Chief Court ordered to expel from the boundary of GB all those individuals who come under the realm of para 18 of the code of conduct framed for the GB general elections 2020, within three days of passing of the order. The court also directed GB’s Chief Election Commissioner, the chief minister and the chief secretary to implement the decision immediately. (“PTI ministers ordered to leave GB in three days,” The News International, 7 November 2020)

Chief Court says PPP leader, ministers and others violated code of conduct for elections

GB Chief Election Commissioner asked the PPP chairman, federal minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, and other public office holders to leave GB to implement the court's order. Further, the commissioner said that a total of 130 notices had been issued to leaders of different political parties, including PPP, PML-N, PTI, PML-Q and JUI-F, for violating election code of conduct. He emphasised that leaders of all political parties needed to obey and implement the elections code of conduct and Election Act 2017. Further, the commissioner rejected the pre-poll rigging allegations, stating that measures were being taken to ensure free, fair and transparent election in GB. (Jamil Nagri, “Bilawal among ‘public office’ holders ordered to leave GB,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

 

16 major cities labelled as highly sensitive
New guidelines to address the COVID-19 surge

 
 

On 6 November, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) issued new guidelines banning indoor marriages, fixing Rs100 as fine for not wearing a mask and allowing “work from home” for 50 per cent staff of public and private institutions. Further, the provinces have been ordered to implement the new guidelines under their own modus operandi. These “non-pharmaceutical interventions” (NPIs) or new guidelines would remain in force till January 2021. The decision was taken at a meeting of the NCOC attended by representatives of the Centre and Provinces.

The NCOC observed that since 16 major cities of the country were highly sensitive due to Covid-19 positivity among the people. The cities with high positivity and higher disease spread potential are Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Hyderabad, Gilgit, Muzzafarabad, Mirpur, Peshawar, Quetta, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Bahawalpur and Abbottabad. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Fine for not wearing mask among new NCOC guidelines,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Farmers’ committee demands arrest for officials for protester’s death
On 6 November, the Pakistan Kissan Rabita Committee’s General Secretary and farmers demanded the arrest of the SP and removal of the Capital City Police Officer in Lahore for a protester’s death at the farmers’ protests. The Secretary claimed the person died “due to police torture and inhaling fumes from chemical-mixed water” used by the police disperse peaceful protesters at the Thokar Niaz Baig on 3 November. He also said the police registered FIRs against 187 protesters “to use it as a bargaining chip with the farmers” while negotiating about the protester’s death. (“Growing calls for action against cops involved in farmer’s ‘killing’,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

Nawaz Sharif proving to be the biggest enemy of Pakistan: Imran
On 6 November, Imran Khan said that by trying to stir up a rebellion in the Pakistan Army, Nawaz Sharif is “making India happy and proving himself one of the biggest enemies of Pakistan.” He said Maryam Nawaz is taking advantage of being a woman and spewing venom against the Army. Further, he called the PDM a “group of thieves and looters” which was “asking for NRO after looting the country.” He said unlike Pervez Musharraf, he would not repeat the mistake of granting NROs to corrupt politicians. (Fazal Khaliq, “PML-N chief trying to stir up rebellion in Army: PM,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

IHC seeks report from NAB on repatriation of officers
On 6 November, the Islamabad High Court sought a statement from the National Accountability Bureau to confirm that officials on deputation in the NAB were repatriated to their respective departments without any discrimination. The IHC was hearing a petition on repatriation of a store officer to the Military Engineering Service. The counsel claimed he was discriminated against as the NAB retained other “blue-eyed” personnel. The prosecutor said the officer was repatriated as he did not possess necessary skills for investigation. The IHC observed that the “NAB overlooked the international standards while inducting the investigation officers,” and asked the prosecutor for an affidavit. (Malik Asad, “NAB must ensure officials repatriated without discrimination: IHC,” Dawn, 7 October 2020)

Jahangir Tareen returns to Pakistan
On 6 November, Jahangir Tareen, former PTI secretary general, who had left Pakistan amid corruption allegations regarding the sugar scam, returned to Pakistan. He said he had left for London on medical grounds after informing the government. Previously, the Opposition had accused Imran of allowing Jahangir to leave Pakistan and carrying out selective accountability. Imran had also said Jahangir would come clean of the charges against him. Meanwhile, Jahangir is still under the FIA investigation. (Mansoor Malik, “Tareen says will help govt control sugar shortage, price hike,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

ECONOMY
ML-1 railway project to cost $6 billion 
On 6 November, Imran Khan said the Main Line-1 railway network would ensure job creation and boost economic activity. He said the project is being implemented in collaboration with China and has also received a cost reduction from $9 billion to $6 billion after negotiation. Further, he said the ML-1 would reduce the distance between Karachi and Lahore to mere seven hours. The Railway Minister said local population would be used for 90 per cent human resources for the project and 10 per cent would be taken from China. (Amjad Iqbal, “ML-1 rail project to create economic activity, jobs: Imran,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Four new ways for Pakistan to engage with the US
An opinion article in The News International suggests four ways in which Pakistan can engage with the post-election US. The first step is to congratulate the new administration and emphasise on the need for political stability in Afghanistan.  Then, Pakistan should take advantage of fast-eroding democracatic culture in India and emphasise Pakistan’s decade of democratic consolidation and pluralism. Third,  Pakistan should push for dialogue that goes beyond strategic issues. For example, Pakistan should aim to increase economic growth with strengthened US-Pak relations and investments as Pakistan has a strong market. The last measure is to explain to convince the US to give up its anti-CPEC propaganda by highlighting that China-Pak relations are aimed at “economic and energy connectivity that could benefit the entire region.” (Fahd Humayun, “How to engage post-election US,” The News International, 7 November 2020)

ON INDIA
FO asks Indian CDS to focus on professional domain 
On 6 November, the Foreign Office said the “Indian military was increasingly getting radicalised.” The FO said Gen Bipin Rawat’s were irresponsible and gratuitous and reflected his lack of knowledge about Pakistan’s ground realities. Further, the FO termed Gen Rawat’s views  “illustrative of the RSS-BJP mindset” and asked Gen Rawat to “focus on his professional domain, rather than continuing to make a career out of anti-Pakistan rhetoric.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Indian military becoming radicalised: FO,” Dawn, 7 November 2020)

 


"It was a shock for me because, typically, we don't talk like this at rallies. But Nawaz heads his own party and I can't control what he says, just like he can't control what I say.”
-PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari

 


Farmers protest in Punjab


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Farmers protest in Punjab
The Punjab government agree to negotiate

General secretary of the Kissan Board Pakistan stated, “We decided to postpone our protest and go for talks when the government agreed to form a committee for discussing ways and means for implementing the recommendations we had submitted to the authorities months ago for improving the agriculture sector.” Further, the general secretary said that they have been assured by the Law Minister that secretaries of agriculture and food departments would meet the farmers’ representatives on 6 November (today) to discuss problems of the farming community and suggest solutions. However, if the demands were not met by 10 November, the farmers would march on Islamabad. This agreement comes after the protesting farmers were baton-charged and arrested by police when they reached The Mall and tried to block the road for traffic on 4 November. (“Farmers postpone protest after baton-charge, arrests,” Dawn, 6 November 2002)

Farmers demand a fair price for their wheat
Punjab’s farmers are protesting mainly for a fair price for their wheat. Presently, they are being offered Rs1,600 per 40 kg for their produce but they have before them the example of Sindh which has fixed the price at Rs2,000 per 40 kg. Their demands include fixing support prices of wheat at Rs2,000 and of sugarcane at Rs300 per 40 kg and introducing a flat rate of Rs5 per unit for tube-wells.

Opposition criticises the PLM-N
Meanwhile, the PML-Q, an ally of the ruling PTI, criticised the “torture” and detention of the farmers. Further, few PPP leaders condemned the baton-charge of the farmers and termed it a “reflection of dictatorial thinking.” In response to this, Maryam Nawaz termed the government actions shameful, arguing the tillers were guaranteeing the supply of food items to the nation.

A dialogue across provinces should take place to ensure there is no discrepancy in prices says an editorial
An editorial in the Dawn critical of the police action in Lahore on the protesting farmers states that this threatens to change the character of an already tense campaign. Further, terming the promise for negotiations by the office as hasty, the editorial says that even a sincere desire to resolve this issue may be long and taxing. It concludes by stating that there has to be a dialogue across provinces to ensure that there is not too much discrepancy in prices of an essential item such as wheat in the country. (“Farmers’ protest,” Dawn, 6 November 2002)

 
GB: Electioneering gains traction with Maryam’s arrival
Bilawal accuses of foul-play
 
Image Source: The News International

On 5 November, with the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz’s arrival in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari call for integrity and impartiality of the GB Election Commission, election campaigning gained momentum. (“Charges fly as GB poll battle heats up,” Dawn, 6 November 2020) Maryam Nawaz kick-started her weeklong political campaign for the upcoming 15 November GB polls by stating that Prime Minister Imran Khan, who threatens others, is about to go. (“PM, who threatens others, is about to go: Maryam,” The News International, 6 November 2020)

Bilawal disapproved of the GB Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Raja Shahbaz Khan’s news conference in Islamabad and demanded that he revealed the details of “his meetings with government functionaries”. According to Dawn,during a news conference, Bilawal “rejected the talk of pre-poll rigging in GB” and indirect criticism of the opposition parties for crying foul even before polling. He was reacting to GB CEC earlier statement: “There are returning officers in 24 constituencies who have not seen any rigging, but they (the opposition) can see it while sitting 600km away.”

EC of GB facilitating PM’s desire, says Bhutto
Bilawal accused GB’s election commissioner of facilitating PM Khan and federal ministers in violating electoral regulations. He said Raja Shahbaz was not protecting the people’s right to participate in free and fair elections. Bilawal further criticized Imran Khan for announcing status of interim province for GB as previously former president Asif Ali Zardari had awarded interim province to GB in 2009. He said “the lollipop of interim province is just a slogan for winning elections.” (“Lollipop of GB interim province just for winning polls: Bilawal,” The News International, 6 November 2020)

Meanwhile…
Reacting to Maryam’s statement on Imran Khan, the information minister Shibli Faraz said tweeted “The people of Gilgit-Baltistan would not allow the N-League to open another franchise of corruption in their region”. He said those who failed with Sindh cannot develop GB. (“People won’t allow PML-N to open ‘new corruption franchise in G-B’: Shibli,” The Express Tribune, 6 November 2020)

 
PML-Q skips PM’s luncheon
Allies complaints about unfulfilled promises 
 
Image Source: The News International

On 5 November, PM Imran Khan met government allies who voiced complaints before him regarding non-provision of development funds, price hike, missing parsons and keeping them away from decision-making. However, Imran Khan assured the leaders of allied parties that all their issues would be resolved soon as he was personally reviewing them.

The allied parties which attended the luncheon included the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Grand Democratic Alliance and Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP). Leaders of the Balochistan Awami Party, as well as the chief ministers from Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, were also present. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Trouble for govt coalition as PML-Q skips lunch with PM,” Dawn, 6 November 2020)

Imran says the focus will now be on welfare projects
Imran Khan while expanding on the economic and political situation in the country, said that his economic team worked hard and the country’s economy had now stabilised. He said that next, he would focus on the public welfare projects, adding that all the promises would not only be fulfilled but would they also be seen as being done in the future. Imran said that “mafia” was the hurdle in the way to change and it was “present everywhere.” Further, he said the PTI and its allies were united for the betterment of Pakistan but it was evident that the opposition was bent upon harming the country. (Faizan Bangash, “Allies speak of unfulfilled promises at PM’s luncheon,” The Express Tribune, 6 November 2020)

Moonis Elahi says his party’s alliance with the PTI was “for the vote and not for lunch”
Skipping the event for the second time, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) leader Moonis Elahi tweeted that PML-Q’s alliance with the PTI government is limited to vote and luncheon is not included in it. According to the News International, sources have stated that the PML-Q leadership is unhappy with the PM over the way it has constantly been treated by the government despite being a major ally in Punjab were without the PML-Q, the PTI government could lose power. (“Alliance limited to vote, luncheon is not included: Moonis Elahi,” The News International, 6 November 2020)

 

In Brief
EXTERNAL 
Russia-Pakistan military exercise to begin on 8 November
On 5 November, Russian troops arrived in Islamabad for a joint Russia-Pakistan military exercise codenamed “Druzhba (Friendship) 5,” which will start on 8 November. According to the  ISPR, the exercise is aimed at sharing counter-terrorism experiences of both the armies. The Russian Defence Ministry said the exercise aims to “strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.” Pakistan is hosting the drills for the third time since they began in 2016. (“Russian troops arrive for drill with Pakistan military,” Dawn, 6 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Editorials highlight changing dynamics of US elections
An editorial in Dawn says the uncertainty of the US election results and Trump’s reaction to the same have exposed the fault lines in the American electoral system. It says the elections have highlighted “how one individual can fan the flames of division and take an already polarised society to the edge.” It highlights that regardless of who wins, the neck-to-neck competition between Trump and Biden shows how divided the society is, and asks how this centuries-old democracy came to the current fragile position. (“Polarised America,” Dawn, 6 November 2020) A similar editorial in The News International says the deeply divided American society can be mended only through some “deep introspection on its political and economic systems.” Further, it says the Democratic Party “may not be able to retain the Senate, which will mean a tough time for a Democratic president if he [Biden] is elected.” Additionally, the position of the conservative judges will make the road ahead tough. It concludes: “America may be deciding their president but for many countries around the globe, an American election also determines which way their economy, policy and fates will go.” (“America decides,” The News International, 6 November 2020)

Identify root causes of unrest instead of criticising the faith of millions, says opinion piece
An opinion article in The Express Tribune, says “Twenty-first century civility forbids a freedom of expression that hurts a sizable group of people who cannot avoid being affected by it — directly or indirectly.” The author tells Macron that insulting the Prophet, when Muslims are the second religious community in France, and “remaining callously insensitive to their feelings is not only bad politics, it is poor leadership.” He tells Macron to identify the root causes of unrest in France instead of criticising Islam for political points. According to him, some of the root causes are: “selective application of liberty, equality and fraternity,” “racial profiling and discrimination against Muslims in urban ghettos,” “social inequality and lack of opportunity especially for Muslim citizens,” and “dissemination of hurtful material with malafide intentions.” (Inam Ul Haque, “The absurdity of France’s Islamophobia,” The Express Tribune, 4 November 2020)

Opinion article criticises “double standards” of the West on freedom of expression
Another opinion piece in The Express Tribune says the West forgets basic decency and civility in the name of freedom of expression when it comes to Islam. The author criticises Macron’s justification of the “blasphemous images of Prophet Muhammad” and says Macron himself gets offended at criticism and jokes. He says instead of displaying statesman-like maturity, Macron fuelled tensions with his remarks on the cartoons and Islam. He says the French have reignited Islamophobia and concludes by asking why the West remain silent when it comes to questioning the events related to Holocaust. (Fahad Hassan Chohan, “In the name of free speech,” The Express Tribune, 4 November 2020)

ON INDIA
Pakistan Foreign Office tells India to protect minorities 
On 5 November, the Foreign Office issued a statement to dismiss India’s claims that the management of Gurudwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, has been transferred to a non-Sikh body. It said that the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) itself rejected the claims. that The statement called the Indian claims malicious and “an attempt to malign the Peace Corridor.” Further, it advised India to “protect its minorities and their places of worship,” rather than showing fake concerns about minorities elsewhere. (“'Sikh body remains in-charge of Gurdwara in Kartarpur', Pakistan rebukes Indian claims,” The Express Tribune, 5 November 2020)

 

 


"Our alliance with PTI is to the extent of votes. Our agreement does not include ImranKhanPTI meals. #PTI #PMLQ”
-Moonis Elahi (Twitter)

 


SC Justice Shah holds PM, law minister responsible for hasty reference against Justice Isa


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 5 November 2020
The case of Justice Isa
Who is afraid of him in Pakistan? And why?

Last month, the Supreme Court of Pakistan, in a detailed judgement on the Presidential reference filed against Justice Qazi Faez Isa (an acting Supreme Court judge), quashed it and said: “Although the preparation and framing of the reference against the petitioner [Justice Isa] is not patently motivated with malice in fact, the scale and degree of the illegalities are such that the reference is deemed to be tainted with mala fide in law…For this reason, the reference is hereby quashed.”

Yesterday (4 November 2020), two judges who were a part of the ten-member bench on Justice Isa reference, and had a dissent with the rest, published their note. It reads: “We (Justices Syed Mansoor Ali Shah and Yahya Afridi) have however not been able to persuade ourselves to agree with the part of the short order as contained in paragraphs 3 to 11 thereof whereby directions have been issued to the FBR to issue notices and initiate proceedings against the wife and children of the petitioner and for submitting the report of the said proceedings to the SJC [Supreme Judicial Council] for the later to proceed in the matter as contemplated in the aforesaid paragraphs and with various other directions contained therein for the following reasons.” Justice Maqbool Baqar also said: “I found that the allegations against the petitioner were wholly unfounded baseless frivolous misconceived and mala fide and that the petitioner was right in claiming the purported Reference to be a product of animosity malice of law as well as of facts and that it streams from the ill will harbored by some functionaries of the executive against the petitioner.”

Now the question is, who amongst the executive has an ill will against Justice Isa? It certainly cannot be the President. He would have passed the reference, as it was given to him.

Is it the government that has an issue with Justice Isa, or is it acting on behalf of the Establishment? It is no secret that some of the judgements delivered by Justice Isa earlier had asked some tough questions about the Establishment’s role in governance. Especially the role of the Establishment’s present team during the TLP-government standoff during the infamous Faizabad dharna during February 2017.

In a hard-hitting judgement, Justice Isa, along with Justice Alam highlighted the role of Inter-Services Intelligence, the Intelligence Bureau, Military Intelligence and the Inter-Services Public Relations “must not exceed their respective mandates.” According to the judgement, “the Constitution emphatically prohibits members of the armed forces from engaging in any kind of political activity, which includes supporting a political party, faction or individual. The Government of Pakistan through the Ministry of Defence and the respective chiefs of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force are directed to initiate action against the personnel under their command who are found to have violated their oath.”

Is Justice Isa being hounded for what he wrote in 2017? Are these references a ploy to prevent him from becoming the Chief Justice?

 
In Focus
SC Justice Shah holds PM, law minister responsible for hasty reference against Justice Isa
Says the manner and mode of information procurement a threat for Pakistan’s democracy

On 4 November, the Supreme Court Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah’s 65-page dissenting note on Justice Isa’s petition held Prime Minister Imran Khan and Law Minister Dr Farogh Naseem responsible for the undue haste in processing the reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa and his family. The note highlighted the seriousness of the constitutional violation committed by the Assets Recovery Unit (ARU) and its chairman Mirza Shahzad Akbar.(“Judge decries illegal data procurement in Isa case,” Dawn, 5 November 2020) Meanwhile, Supreme Court Justice Maqbool Baqar held PM Khan and Law Minister and ARU Chairman Akbar liable under the Income Tax Ordinance (ITO) 2001 and the Nadra Ordinance for the haste of the presidential reference against Justice Isa. (“PM, minister, ARU head liable for Isa reference: SC judge,” Dawn, 5 November 2020) Moreover, both Judges said that the President did not use his mind regarding the reference against Justice Isa.

Allegations baseless and frivolous, says Justice Maqbool
In his 68-page dissenting note, Justice Maqbool Baqar observes that “allegations against the petitioner were wholly unfounded baseless frivolous misconceived and mala fide and that the petitioner was right in claiming the purported Reference to be a product of animosity malice of law as well as of facts and that it streams from the ill will harbored by some functionaries of the executive against the petitioner”. (“Reference against Justice Isa: President didn’t use his mind, says judges,” The News International, 5 November 2020)

Unlawful surveillance “deeply worrying”, says Justice Shah
Justice Shah expressed fear regarding the unlawful procurement of information about Justice Isa’s London properties through unlawful surveillance. He said it shook “the foundation of a democratic society based on rule of law” and was “deeply worrying”. The Justice observed that the invasion of privacy and unlawful surveillance were far critical than the ARU’s procured information. According to Dawn, Justice Shah considered the intrusion “a naked threat to personal liberty, privacy and dignity guaranteed to the citizens under the constitution”. “To trivialise the right to privacy by saying that the judge has nothing to hide is no different than saying you don’t care about free speech because you have nothing to say”, Justice Shah stated. He says the manner and mode of the procurement of information cannot be lightly dismissed.

ARU cannot carry out interception without intelligence agencies’ support, says Justice Shah
Dawn says the Justice explained that “the ARU is not equipped to carry out surveillance or interception without assistance of the intelligence agencies, for which it was authorised in the terms of reference by the cabinet without any lawful authority”.

 
Pakistan, EU and the first meeting of the bilateral Security Dialogue in 2021
Both sides agreed to work towards a comprehensive dialogue on migration and mobility
Image Source: Dawn

On 4 November, Pakistan and the European Union agreed to commence their bilateral security dialogue from next year. According to the Dawn, the joint statement issued after the fifth round of their bilateral strategic dialogue said, that the two have “agreed to hold the first meeting of the new EU-Pakistan Security Dialogue in 2021, including on the fight against terrorism.”

 

SEP a framework for greater cooperation 

In 2019, Pakistan and the EU had signed a Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) to provide a framework for greater cooperation and stronger ties between the two sides. In this, Collaboration in the sphere of peace and security, through a structured security dialogue, were described as its essential pillar.

However, now the new security dialogue under the SEP has replaced the earlier series of annual counterterrorism and non-proliferation and disarmament dialogues. Further, the EU briefed Pakistan about its new pact on migration and asylum. Both sides agreed to work towards a comprehensive dialogue on migration and mobility, as envisaged under the SEP.

Issue a joint declaration calling for a ceasefire in Afghanistan

The EU and Pakistan issued a joint statement in which they urged the Afghan government and the Taliban to reach a ceasefire. The statement said, “The EU and Pakistan, therefore, call on the parties to observe a lasting humanitarian ceasefire, in response to the global appeal by UN Secretary-General Guterres, and to strive towards a complete elimination of violence as a clear demonstration of their genuine commitment to lasting peace and reconciliation.” Further, the two sides asked the Taliban and the Afghan government to make “earnest efforts” for achieving lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan. (“Pakistan-EU security dialogue next year,” Dawn, 5 November 2020)

 
Treasury faces loss of Rs1 billion due to 68 absconders and 42 failed lecturers
25 per cent penalty charged
 
Image Source: The News International

As per official statistics of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) provided under the 2017 Right to Access to Information Act, various public sector universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa sent abroad, on scholarship, 734 assistant professors and lecturers for PhD studies from 2010. While 550 scholars have returned after successfully completing their education, 68 were absconding, 42 failed to complete the PhD and 74 are continuing their studies abroad in various universities.

Proceedings for recovery of charges commence
According to records, the failed and absconding employees have caused the national exchequer a loss of over Rs1 billion; the cost of a PhD abroad ranges from Rs10 to Rs15 million. The respective universities and the HEC have initiated legal proceedings for the amount’s recovery, along with a penalty charge of 25 per cent. (“68 PhD absconders, 42 failed lecturers cause over Rs1 billion loss,” The News International, 5 November 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Police uses force to disperse protesting farmers, PML-N condemns police action
On 4 November, Punjab Police baton-charged, used tear gas and water cannons allegedly mixed with chemicals to disperse a Pakistan Kissan Ittehad demonstration after they blocked traffic on Multan road and pelted stones at the police. The police also arrested dozens of farmers. According to the DIG Operations Lahore, protests outside the Punjab Assembly are prohibited as it has been declared a red zone. (“Punjab Police beat protesting farmers, arrest dozens,” The News International, 5 November 2020)

PML-N Information Secretary condemned the police action and demanded immediate release of the arrested. She said Imran Khan’s actions reeked of “fear, cowardice and narrow-mindedness.” She said that “torturing and assaulting farmers instead of meeting their demands, exposes premier’s fascist mindset.” (“PML-N condemns govt over baton charge, shelling on farmers,” The News International, 5 November 2020)

Another case of child marriage, Sindh HC intervenes
On 4 November, the Sindh High Court ordered a police investigation into the matter of a 16-year-old’s marriage in Larkana. The direction came after the girl sought protection and quashing of a kidnapping case against her spouse registered by her family. The Court observed that any person under 18 years “living in the province could not enter into a marriage contract under the  Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act 2013” and directed the girl to live with her parents. (Jamal Khurshid, “SHC tells police to proceed against man for marrying 16-year-old girl,” The News International, 5 November 2020)

ECONOMY
ADB to provide $10 billion assistance to Pakistan
On 4 November, the Asian Development Bank said it will help Pakistan speed up economic revival by providing $10 billion in fresh assistance over the next five years. According to Dawn’s sources, the assistance will focus on three areas: “improving economic management, building resilience and boosting competitiveness, and private sector development,” and about 33 per cent of the fund will be allocated to the energy sector. Additionally, for the County Operations Business Plan (COBP) 2021-2023, the ADB indicated a resource allocation of about $6.3 billion for 44 projects. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ADB to give $10bn for development in five years,” Dawn, 5 November 2020)

Pakistan seeks rollover of $4 billion from Saudi Arabia and UAE
On 4 November, sources in The News said Pakistan has decided to seek rollover of the $4 billion loans Saudi Arabia  and UAE from for another year because it could not afford to pay back the outstanding loans. Saudi Arabia had provided a $3 billion deposit loan from November 2019 to January 2020 and Pakistan repaid $1 billion. The UAE had provided $2 billion loan deposits in January and February 2020. Currently the State Bank of Pakistan’s foreign reserves are at $12.121 billion, most of it consisting of outstanding loans. Further, Pakistan also had a rollover from China for $3 billion. Under an IMF agreement, the three countries have to agree to the rollover. (Mehtab Haider, “Forex deposits stability: Saudi Arabia, UAE agree to extend $4 bn loan,” The News International, 5 November 2020)
ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
China rejects Indian statement on GB
On 4 November, Chinese Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson called for resolution of the Kashmir issue peacefully as per the UNSC resolutions and bilateral agreements. China rejected the Indian statement over the provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan and the spokesperson “I don’t think that is a valid statement.” He reiterated China’s support and said “administrative, political and economic reforms are a longstanding demand of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.” (“China rejects Indian statement over GB’s provisional provincial status,” The News International, 5 November 2020)

Will Gilgit-Baltistan elections change the PDM dynamics, asks opinion article
In an opinion article in Dawn, Fahd Hussain highlights the political developments in Gilgit-Baltistan as the election date closes in. He says the wind seems to be in favour of the PPP as Bilawal has been campaigning strongly in GB and PML-N’s Maryam Nawaz has not yet entered the GB scenario due to the intense politicking in the PDM. He speculates whether the PPP’s win in GB will result in loosened ties with the PDM after the GB elections, as Bilawal’s absence from the Quetta rally may have already irritated Maulana Fazlur. He also highlights the stakes of the PTI government and says that with each PDM rally, the Opposition will toughen. In the backdrop of GB elections, it is left to see if the PDM and the government will resolve their conflict with minimum damage. (Fahd Hussain, “Red Zone Files, From DC to GB,” Dawn, 5 November 2020)

ON CPEC
CPEC Joint Working Group discusses priority projects
On 4 November, the Joint Working Group on CPEC discussed projects for the third phase and  asked the Chinese government to send experts for implementation of priority projects. The priority projects include agriculture technology laboratories, educational sector development and overseas student scholarship programmes, solarisation project in Balochistan, and drinking water supply project for “AJK” and KP." The Pakistani delegation also discussed the need for poverty alleviation research with China’s assistance. (“Projects for third phase under CPEC discussed,” Dawn, 5 October 2020)

 


"In Washington DC and in GB; in Michigan and in Multan; in Pennsylvania and in Peshawar — two systems with two sets of rivals in two parallel universes are being tested for their ability to resolve conflicts with minimum damage. Who do you bet on?”
-Fahd Hussain, Red Zone Files

 


FO rejects Indian Defence Minister’s remarks on GB


Photo: Dawn



Editorial
Pakistan’s hypocrisy and duplicity on Gilgit-Baltistan
On Tuesday, the foreign office again parroted that India does not have any locus standi on Gilgit Baltistan, while responding to a statement from the Indian defence minister.

The foreign office statement, as quoted by the Nation, refers to the following: “Pakistan’s principled position on the Jammu & Kashmir dispute remains firmly anchored in the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions”; “administrative, political and economic reforms are a long-standing demand of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan,” and “the envisaged provisional reforms reflect the aspirations of the indigenous populace of Gilgit-Baltistan.” 

While Pakistan refutes India has no claim over GB – legally or historically, what claims has Islamabad advocated so far? If Pakistan believes in the principled position on J&K and UNSC resolution, what do the latter ask Pakistan to do in GB? (and also in what Pakistan refers as “AJK”)

Is GB a part of Pakistan – legally and constitutionally? Until now, it has not been. Then under what provisions can Islamabad make “provisional reforms” to GB? If the region is independent, then it should have been a part of the “Azad” J&K. Why did Islamabad treat GB as a colony until now? Under what provisions, did Pakistan decide to build Diamer-Bhasha dam, and the CPEC projects in the GB?

While Pakistan has been telling India has no locus-standi in GB, it has never answered for its own.
 
In Focus
FO rejects Indian Defence Minister’s remarks on GB:
Says India has no locus standi on Gilgit-Baltistan
 (Image Source: Dawn)

Previously, Rajnath Singh, reiterated India’s stand that GB along with Kashmir was an “integral part of India”. He also criticised Prime Minister Imran Khan’s announcement of granting provincial status to GB.

Development will not alter Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir dispute, says FO
“Administrative, political and economic reforms are a long-standing demand of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The envisaged provisional reforms reflect aspirations of the indigenous populace of Gilgit-Baltistan,” the FO said. It stressed that development did not change Islamabad’s position on the Kashmir issue. The office emphasized that “its principled position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remained firmly anchored in the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions”.

Quotable
“Gratuitous repetition of false claims by the RSS-BJP leaders, one after the other, for political point-scoring can neither change facts nor can it draw attention away from the reprehensible human rights violations being perpetrated against the Kashmiri people by Indian occupation forces in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir,” the FO said.(“FO rejects Indian minister’s comments on GB status,” Dawn, 4 November 2020)

 

 
On forced conversion and marriages
True free will in matters of faith scarcely exists say Dawn in its editorial
Image Source: Voice of America
 

An editorial in the Dawn critical of the many incidents in which families of girls from minority communities being forcibly converted before being married to Muslim men states that despite the law on underage marriage, the courts have been inclined to look the other way if the girl claims her conversion was according to her will, and allowed her to go with her purported spouse.
The editorial states that when religious conversion is involved. Presently, there is no law providing for a minimum age of conversion. In 2016, a bill was introduced in the Sindh Assembly specifying 18 years as the minimum age for such a profound, life-changing decision, however, when the religious lobby created an uproar, the PPP government yielded and the law was never enacted. Thus, the issue was never settled.  The editorial concludes by stating that the inequality of social and political power between two parties is an important factor, as is the pressure exerted in an atmosphere of growing religiosity, where true free will in matters of faith scarcely exists. (“Forced conversion,” Dawn, 4 November 2020)

A judicial magistrate remands the accused in police custody for three days
On 3 November, a judicial magistrate remanded the accused in police custody for three days for allegedly abducting 13-year-old Christian girl, Arzoo, forcibly converting her to Islam and then marrying her. The investigation officer, presented Syed Azhar Ali before the JM-XXIII of the South district, following the suspect’s arrest at the hands of the Anti-Violent Crime Cell. Further, the IO pleaded with the judge to grant him the physical remand of the suspect to conduct his DNA test and arrest his accomplices who have been absconding since obtaining bail from the same court. (Zubair Ashraf, “Man who ‘married 13-year-old Arzoo after her forcible conversion’ remanded in police custody,” The News International, 4 November 2020)

The case of forced conversion and marriage beyond Azroo
Women especially belonging to religious minority groups have faced the gravest brunt of discrimination. They become victims of rape, abduction, forced marriage and forced conversion. Further, the underage girls who are ‘converting’ to Islam speaks volumes of the vulnerability of the converts, and the motivation of those behind the conversion. In most cases the victim is abducted and is then subjugated to sustained emotional and physical abuse often involving threats of violence towards their loved ones. (Sulema Jahangir, “Forced conversions,” Dawn, 12 April 2020)

In most cases, the police often turn a blind eye to reports of abduction and forced conversions thereby creating impunity for perpetrators. Further, despite recent judicial activism, the issue is unlikely to get addressed at the ground level, especially in Sindh, due to access to justice by the socially and economically backward minority communities. (“Forced Conversions and Marriages in Pakistan: The case beyond Reena and Raveena,” Pakistan Reader, 16 June 2020)

 

New Chinese Ambassador wants to build "China-Pakistan community of shared future in new era"
On 3 November, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong, said “China always views China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and gives priority to Pakistan in its neighboring diplomacy.” He said both countries should promote construction of CPEC and focus on “industrial development, agriculture, science and technology, information, and livelihood-related sectors.” He said this would benefit both countries. He also called for cooperation to address the pandemic. 
Nong Rong mentioned that the Central Committee of the CPC decided that China should follow a “dual circulation” development pattern in which the domestic economic cycle will lead the country but the international economic cycle will supplement it.” For this China will open up with the development of the Belt and Road Initiative. He said that Xi Jinping believes “China-Pakistan relations should become a model of neighbourhood friendship, a pillar of regional peace and stability, and a benchmark for the BRI cooperation.” (“Building a China-Pakistan community of shared future in new era,” The News International, 4 November 2020)



In Brief
INTERNAL
NCC has ruled out the option of imposing a complete lockdown in the country
On 3 November, the National Coordination Committee (NCC) has ruled out the option of imposing a complete lockdown in the country and recommended all the measures announced by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on 28 October which included strict implementation of the SOPs at public places and reduction in timings for markets and commercial activities to continue. Further, PM Imran Khan directed all stakeholders to maintain a balance between disease control measures and livelihood of people. He specifically called for increasing hospital care to cater for any rise in Covid-19 cases, particularly critical care equipment. (Amir Wasim, “NCC rules out complete lockdown,” Dawn, 4 November 2020)

Mahsud tribes stage sit-in in S. Waziristan
On 3 November, the Mahsud tribes of South Waziristan tribal district boycotted the survey for the damages caused by militancy and subsequent military operations. They said they will not cooperate with the survey officials “unless and until the government announced a reasonable compensation for the losses.” Later, they staged a sit-in against the government and announced that they will register their concerns in the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Tank. They said Rs 0.4 million compensation was insufficient. (“Mahsud tribes boycott survey, send team back in South Waziristan,” The News International, 4 November 2020)

ON CPEC
NA extends modified CPEC ordinance 
The National Assembly has extended a modified CPEC Ordinance for four months after its expiration since the Parliament failed to pass it within 120 days. Now, the ordinance indemnifies the CPEC Authority and its officers from any lawsuit or prosecution. A similar indemnity clause existed in the original ordinance in 2019. However, the present ordinance has been expanded with some new clauses. A new provision in the ordinance says any licence or directive issued under the CPEC ordinance will continue to be in force until the Authority cancels it. (Tariq Butt, “CPEC Ordinance indemnifies CPEC authority,” The News International, 4 November 2020)

ECONOMY
Trade deficit narrows to $1.58 billion
On 3 November, data from the Commerce Ministry showed that the trade deficit had narrowed 23 per cent year-on-year to $1.58 billion in October as textile value-added exports increased and imports fell sharply. The data highlighted that the monthly trade deficit had improved by $463 million compared to October 2019. Monthly trade deficit had contracted 4.5 per cent to $7.42 billion from $7.77 billion in the first four months of the current financial year. (“Trade deficit narrows 23pc in October,” The News International, 4 November 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Pakistan expresses concern over the proliferation of Islamophobia in Europe
On 3 Novermber, the FO in a statement said, “The foreign minister apprised his European counterpart about the concerns of Muslims around the world, including Pakistan regarding the growing trend of Islamophobia in some European countries.” This issue was raised by FM Qureshi at the Fifth Round of Pakistan-European Union Strategic Dialogue, which was held virtually. Previously, the FM raised this issue with his other European counterparts in his conversations with them over the past few days and called for promoting inter-faith harmony for defusing the potentially dangerous situation. (“Pakistan voices concern over proliferation of Islamophobia in Europe,” Dawn, 4 November 2020)

An opinion say that the USA is back to develop alliances on the basis of self-assumed threats to world peace and freedom
An opinion in the Daily Times states that the USA is back to business to develop alliances on the basis of self-assumed threats to world peace and freedom. AS China becomes the new obsession for USA and ruling elite of USA sparing no moment to malign China on one pretext or another, the opinion says that they are doing whatever it takes for their allies to oppose and undermine China. In this context, India is a match made in heaven for USA in South Asian region. There are multiple reasons for this but the Indian obsession to establish its dominance in the region coupled with anti-Pakistan sentiments make this deal most favourable for them, citing the joint statement of 2+2 meeting as a perfect example of such obsession of both states. The opinion concluded by stating that although the USA has tried hard to undermine China and India was hell bent to malign Pakistan no matter what, it seems that the meeting was 2 (USA and India) against 2 (China and Pakistan), not 2+2. (Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, “2+2: 2 (USA &India) Against 2 (China & Pakistan),” The Daily Times, 4 November 2020)

Improved relations with US necessary for Pakistan, says editorial
An editorial in The Nation says the global community is keen to see the US election results as it has a global impact. The editorial says the prospects of winning seem tumultuous for Trump as the pandemic has undone the economic progress under his administration. The editorial says the election is not the biggest worry for the world, what follows the results may be more controversial. It says irrespective of which party wins, US policy towards Pakistan has remained the same but Trump has been unpopular. It urges Pakistan to improve relations with the US, irrespective of who wins, to develop Afghan peace process and CPEC. (“A Decisive Day,” The Nation, 4 November 2020)

Democrats’ victory may not change Afghan policy, says opinion piece
An opinion piece in Dawn says no matter who wins the US elections, Trumpism will not cease to exist. However, the results will impact the whole world. The author says a Democrats’ victory would change the US foreign policy; it may mark a return to multilateralism. However, he says it is unlikely that the US policy towards Afghanistan will change as there is unanimity between Trump and Biden on the withdrawal of the American forces from Afghanistan. He highlights that “a hasty withdrawal of the American forces without a political settlement could lead to a new and perhaps bloodier civil war in the divided country.” However, the author hopes that Biden will show maturity in dealing with the Afghan crisis more than Trump. (Zahid Hussain, “No change in Afghan policy,” Dawn, 4 November 2020)
 

 


"China always views China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and gives priority to Pakistan in its neighboring diplomacy.”
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong

 


Maulana Fazlur calls for a PDM meeting


Photo: Dawn



In Focus

Maulana Fazlur calls for a PDM meeting

PPP condemns Imran Khan’s remarks on the judiciary

According to Dawn, the President of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) Maulana Fazlur Rehman has called for a meeting of heads of PDM’s constituent parties in Islamabad on 8 November to review Pakistan’s prevailing political situation. The meeting aims to devise a strategy for the upcoming public meetings to be held in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Punjab. Maulana’s call comes in the wake of the treason allegations by PM Khan against PML-N leader Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. The PDM meeting will be hosted by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) at the party’s secretariat. PML-N supreme leader Nawaz Sharif would address the meeting through a video link from London. Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would participate via a video link from Gilgit-Baltistan.(“PDM constituent parties to review political situation on 8th,” Dawn,3 November 2020)

The PDM meetings and agenda

So far, PDM has held public meetings in Gujranwala, Karachi and Quetta. It has now scheduled its fourth public meeting in Peshawar on 22 November, fifth in Multan on 30 November and the last one in Lahore on 13 December. PDM leaders say the Lahore public meeting would be Pakistans “biggest gathering” ever and that the present “set-up” between the incumbent government and the Establishment would no longer be able to obstruct the will of Pakistanis. PDM has also called for a long march in January 2021, seeking the resignation of Imran Khan.

PPP criticizes Khan’s remarks about judiciary

In a reaction to Imran Khan’s recent remarks on the judiciary, PPP’s Core Committee member Taj Haider said “The opposition is not and cannot promote a judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan as there is a set procedure for promotion of judges based on their respective seniority”. PPP accused the Centre of having “mala fide intentions” behind the attempted maligning of a Supreme Court judge and Imran Khan of committing a “predetermined contempt of court”.

Government to use ‘full force’ to counter PDM’s ‘anti-state narrative’

As per Dawn’s sources, on 2 November, PM Khan stated that the PTI government would “not succumb to the pressure being exerted by the opposition through its anti-government campaign and would not offer any concessions to the opposition members facing corruption charges”. The government would strongly resist the PDM’s campaigns at every forum. (“Govt to counter PDM’s ‘anti-state narrative’ with full force,” Dawn,3 November 2020)

PML-N says PTI’s attempts to divide PDM will fail

On 2 November, PML-N senior vice president Senator Sardar Mohammad Yaqoob Khan Nasar predicted the failure of any attempts by the PTI government to divide or cause a rift within the PDM. He said PDM was jointly striving for the “restoration of democracy and upholding of Constitution in the country”. (“Moves to divide PDM will fail, says PML-N leader,” Dawn,3 November 2020)

Pakistan’s political scenario getting “tenser by the day”, says Dawn editorial

The editorial identifies a trend in the current escalation of mutual accusations and the dangerously intensifying war of words – “The top leadership of the PTI is increasingly resorting to rhetoric that is both irresponsible and dangerous.” It says that the PTI’s attitude and moves could incite violence and crumble national interests and peace. Pointing out that there is no individual, organisation or institution that can mediate and disengage the rivals, the editorial calls for the need to maintain sanity considering the already weak and compromised nature of Pakistan’s systems. (“Escalating tension,”Dawn,3 November 2020)

Meanwhile…

The Lt Gen (retd) Abdul Qadir Baloch cited Nawaz Sharif’s fiery speech at the Pakistan Democratic Movement’s Quetta public meeting as the sole reason for his decision to quit the PML-N. He opined that the supreme leader’s addressing crossed all red lines when he asked the army to not obey “the illegal and unconstitutional” orders of the highest echelons of the Army – the COAS and the DG ISI. (“It’s not Zehri or Ayaz, it’s Nawaz: Gen Qadir gives reason for resigning from PML-N,”The News International, 3 November 2020)

Owen Bennet Jones explains the sources of sectarianism in Pakistan

Looking beyond socioeconomic and religious factors

In his opinion piece, Owen Bennet Jones highlights that the two broad explanations behind militancy - socioeconomic factors and religious indoctrination - are only parts of the larger story. Owen says socioeconomic factors like “anti-imperialism, particularly anti-Americanism, a Robin Hood mentality, search for masculinity, and national or tribal affiliation,” are rejected by those who strongly argue that religious doctrines fuels violence. The liberal circle tends to favour the socioeconomic argument while the conservatives favour the religious argument. 

Talibanisation and sectarianism

Owen says these two explanations “lie behind two main militancy-related phenomena to affect Pakistan, Talibanisation and sectarianism.” He gives the example of Punjab SSP’s reliance on urban traders to address the power held by the Shia landlords. Here, the reason behind militancy was economic. He says, Talibanisation relied on disrupting money flow from “drug trade, the explosion in remittances from the Gulf and US and Saudi funding of the anti-Soviet mujahideen.” 

Owen says along with these socioeconomic factors, religiosity of ‘martyrs’ also plays a role. He says kids who end up in extremist madrasas are cut off from the outside world and indoctrinated with ideas of being rewarded for killing ‘kaafirs.’ He particularly mentions that growth of Deobandi madrasas provided such ideological basis spreading sectarian ideas. Once these children grow up and are affected by socioeconomic inequality, they feel “despised by the Westernised elite that runs Pakistan and alienated from their own village..” leaving them both rootless and angered by their lack of opportunity. 

The role of state agencies

Owen highlights another reason behind radicalisation - splintering of groups when state agencies manipulate them for their own agendas. He gives the example of the Kashmir insurgency in 1980s when Pakistan “encouraged pan-Islamist groups with links to Pakistan rather than nationalist groups that were more independence-minded.” (Owen Bennett-Jones, “Sources of militancy,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

Arzoo, a teenage Christian girl recovered after allegedly abducted before being forcefully converted

Women belonging to religious minorities expressed outrage and condemnation at forced marriages of underage girls

On 2 November, the Anti-Violent Crime Cell rescued 13-year-old Christian girl Arzoo Raja and arrested a 44-year-old man who allegedly married her after abducting her and forcibly converting her to Islam. The police claimed to have recovered Arzoo after the Sindh High Court directed the law enforcement agency to recover the Christian girl and place her at a shelter home within three days. The suspect is to be presented before a court on Tuesday (today). To show solidarity with the family of Arzoo Raja, Punjab Minister for Human Rights/Minorities Affairs and PTI’s MNA Ruth arrived in Karachi, further, the two met with Christian community leaders and senior police officers.

This came after Raja, the father of Arzoo lodged a kidnapping case against the accused at the Frere Police Station. In the FIR the complainant stated that his daughter had been kidnapped from their residence in Karachi on 13 October. (Faraz Khan, Zia Ur Rehman, “13-year-old Arzoo rescued, man ‘who forcibly married her’ arrested,” The News International, 3 November 2020) (“Underage marriage: 13-year-old Arzoo recovered after SHC orders, says Wahab,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

Arzoo’s actual age, conversion to Islam and marriage issues to be taken up by the SHC

After Arzoo had sought a court ruling against the registration of the FIR filed by her family, further, she submitted in the petition that she converted to Islam of her free will and also asked her family members to embrace Islam but they refused as well as submitted the contracted marriage. However, the DSP expressed the fear that Arzoo was being held against her will as the free-will affidavit submitted showed her as 18 years of age, while according to her date of birth, which was 31 July 2007, she was actually 13 when the affidavit was signed and the so-called marriage contracted.

In this regard, the bench after hearing the arguments observed that the dispute includes two issues, the age of Arzoo and whether she had converted of her own free will from Christianity to Islam and that being the case she had entered into a valid marriage with Azhar. The court issued notices to all parties including Arzoo’s spouse on the application of the police and adjourned the hearing till 5 November. (“Police recover 13-year-old Arzoo on SHC order, arrest husband,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

Women belonging to religious minorities have expressed outrage and condemnation over the issue

The Minority Women’s Forum (MWF) criticised the underage marriages of girls, especially those from religious minorities, who were abducted and made to change their religion. The MWF also demanded comprehensive legal and policy measures at national and provincial levels to end forced conversions and subsequent marriages of minority minor girls and to guarantee that any religious conversion was done without any pressure and with free will as well as comprehensive anti-discrimination measures, legislative, policy and administrative initiatives to protect and promote the human rights of religious minorities. (“Outrage at forced marriages of underage girls,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

In Brief

INTERNAL

Judiciary should stay away from politics: SCBA Chief

On 2 November, Abdul Latif Afridi, the newly elected president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, said “the judiciary should stay away from political matters and stick to its job of protecting the Constitution.” He appreciated Justice Qazi Faez Isa  and said he was “known for being an independent and upright judge as his integrity was beyond a shadow of doubt.” He disapproved of labelling politicians 'traitors’ and said all democratic forces should work together to improve the human rights situation in Pakistan. (“SCBA chief wants judiciary to stay away from politics,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

SC to take up the appeal of Jang-Geo Group Editor-in-Chief Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman

The Supreme Court is to take up the appeal of Jang-Geo Group Editor-in-Chief Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman against an order passed by the Lahore High Court (LHC) dismissing his post-arrest bail petition in a case relating to a property transaction that took place 34 years ago today. A two-member bench of the apex court will take up the appeal of Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman. Further, this comes after 235 days since Mir Shakil-ur-Rehman’s imprisonment. (“Supreme Court takes up appeal of Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman today,” The News International, 3 November 2020)

EXTERNAL 

44 Pakistani prisoners to be repatriated soon

On 3 November, sources in Dawn revealed that 44 Pakistani prisoners in Sri Lankan jails will soon be repatriated to complete their remaining jail term in Pakistan. A diplomatic source told Dawn the prisoners would be handed over to Pakistani prison authorities at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) on Tuesday (today). On 29 October, the Interior Ministry finalised the plan; the repatriation was coordinated by the National Database and Registration Authority, FIA, PIA and the Civil Aviation Authority. (Iftikhar A Khan, “44 Pakistani prisoners in Sri Lanka to return home soon,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

US envoy Khalilzad meets COAS

On 2 November, the US Special Representa­tive for Afghan Reconcilia­tion Zalmay Khalilzad met COAS Qamar Bajwa to discuss ways to push the Taliban and the Afghan government to reduce violence and implement the Doha peace talks. An ISPR statement said the two sides also discussed the regional security situation, Afghan peace process with particular reference to border management. Earlier, Khalilzad told the Afghan sides that  “the window to achieve a political settlement will not stay open forever.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Khalilzad discusses Afghan peace with Bajwa,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

ON COVID-19

COVID-19 lethality increases in the second wave

The lethality of COVID-19 has intensified in the second wave of the coronavirus when compared to the first surge in the country. According to a professor of medicine, a mutation of the virus has added to its gravity, which is very dangerous for people struck by it. Further, the professor said, “The Covid-19 patients we are receiving at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Islamabad have been found to be more severely ill than before.” However, the professor claimed, “It is not yet clear whether its intensity has increased, decreased or is the same. But there is no doubt that the threat is still very serious,” adding that it all depends on human behaviour and the nature and decisions of the leadership to deal with COVID-19. (“Covid-19 lethality intensifies in second wave,” The News International, 3 November 2020)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN

An editorial says that giving Gilgit-Baltistan provincial status is complicated, however, somebody needs to protect the region

Giving Gilgit-Baltistan provincial status is complicated by the fact that the territory is disputed says an editorial in the News. However, the people of GB have waited long enough, they deserve dignity and the right to vote in their own government. Further, the editorial stated that given that they stand nowhere someone needs to protect this region. For long the region has been left on its own, with over the year, report of heavy-handed crackdowns and constant surveillance only increasing. In this regard, the editorial states that little hope that GB’s status as Pakistan’s fifth province will empower the region and its people and help fix the neglected area so that the people and their rights can be fully protected and fully guaranteed. (“G-B’s status,” The News International, 3 November 2020)

ON INDIA

Allowing Indians to buy land in “IHK” is a recipe for disaster, says Dawn editorial

An editorial in Dawn criticises the Indian government’s move allowing Indians to buy land in Kashmir. The editorial says that while removing the Kashmiri flag and constitution was a blatant move “to smother Kashmiris’ desire for freedom and a just solution to the decades-old conflict, letting outsiders buy land in the occupied region hits the area’s people particularly hard.” The editorial says this will eventually lead to the local population becoming a minority. It calls this move a recipe for disaster and says it “will damage the demographic character of IHK beyond repair.” It suggests the BJP-government to “listen to the voices coming out of held Kashmir, demanding dignity and protection of their fundamental rights,” instead of implementing controversial moves. (“IHK land laws,” Dawn, 3 November 2020)

 


Gilgit-Baltistan: Imran Khan wants to grant provisional provincial status


Photo: Daily Times



In Focus
Gilgit-Baltistan: Imran Khan wants to grant provisional provincial status:
Foreign Office retorts MEA's statement of GB "irresponsible and unwarranted"

On 1 November, PM Imran Khan announced that his government has decided to grant provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan, keeping in view the UN Security Council resolutions. Further, PM Khan went on to congratulate the people of GB over the development, however, he said that he could not announce development package due to elections in the area.

On the same lines, Fawad Chaudhry said that GB would become Pakistan's fifth province, adding that 90 per cent of the legislation on the region is being done through consensus. Meanwhile, PPP's Sherry Rehman said, "People of Gilgit-Baltistan should get their rights, it is included in our manifesto," however adding, that they were not approached by anyone to deliberate over the matter. ("GB to become Pakistan's fifth province: Fawad," The News International, 2 November 2020)

Provincial status to be granted after the elections 
GB Governor said that the federal government was making serious efforts to bring this region in mainstream and announced that the provisional provincial status would be granted after the election in GB. (Jamil Nagri, "'Blackmailers' will face justice, vows PM," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

FO categorically rejected the "irresponsible and unwarranted" by MEA
In response to India rejecting this announcement, the FO spokesman categorically rejected a statement of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and termed it "irresponsible and unwarranted," adding, "India has no locus standi whatsoever on the issue — legal, moral or historical." Further, the FO stated that the reforms announced by the government "Administrative, political and economic reforms are a long-standing demand of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, adding, "The envisaged provisional reforms reflect the aspirations of the indigenous populace of Gilgit-Baltistan." Further, the statement read, "Regurgitation of false and fabricated claims by India can neither change facts nor divert attention from India's illegal actions and continuing humanitarian crisis resulting from perpetration of the worst human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&K)." ("Indian statement 'irresponsible, unwarranted': Reforms reflect will of GB's indigenous people," The News International, 2 November 2020)

 
Interior Minister warns the Opposition on the threat from the Taliban
ANP  calls the statement "irresponsible"
Image Source: Dawn

 

On 1 November, in a strong reaction to the Minister for Interior retired Brigadier Ijaz Shah's recent remarks in which the Brigadier warned the opposition against attacks by the Taliban, the opposition Awami National Party (ANP) called for his "immediate resignation" and formation of a truth commission, while Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) sought an apology. ("Minister slammed over Taliban attack remarks," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

Minister's statement will cause trouble at the international level, says Khokhar

The spokesman for PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar termed the Brigadier's statement a violation of the National Action Plan against terrorism and demanded an apology to the entire nation and to the families of those who were martyred in the war against terrorism. "These kinds of irresponsible statements by the federal ministers have already caused a difficult situation for Pakistan in Financial Action Task Force (FATF)… Due to this dual policy and actions, the world does not recognise the sacrifices offered by thousands of our army troops and citizens," he said. Such statements "validated" terror-related allegations against Pakistan, he opined.

ANP President calls the statement "irresponsible"

Through Twitter, the ANP stated that it had always opposed the "good and bad Taliban" distinction. Meanwhile, the ANP president Asfandyar Wali Khan termed the interior minister's statement 'irresponsible' and 'foolish'. He said that his statements discounted the various sacrifices that had been rendered for restoration of peace in the country.

Quotable

"Was the ANP fighting the war against terrorists for the protection of the state or against the state? Where was the minister when the fight against terrorism was going on?" ANP chief questioned on Twitter.

The statement in question

Previously, the interior minister had stated that the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, reacting to the ANP's policies on terrorism, had killed many of the party's leaders, including the son of Mian Iftikhar and Bashir Bilour

 
Maleeha Lodhi says the current political strife could be detrimental to Pakistan
Identifies five features and three potential scenarios
Image Source: Dawn

 

In light of the fast-changing political landscape of the country, Maleeha Lodhi identifies five features of "fraught political landscape" that are posing hurdles for Pakistan in the domestic and international arenas. 

First, the lack of any easing in the war of words between the government and opposition. Its persistence of which is intoxicating the overall environment. "In the battle of pressers each side is making incendiary accusations against its opponents. Parliamentary proceedings offer the unedifying spectacle of harsh invective being exchanged with both sides calling the other traitors," she says. Second, the government's rhetoric and actions has cemented the opposition's unity; the latter now represents a "wide national spectrum". Third, the growing polarisation is eliminating the middle ground in Pakistan's politics. As a result, cooperation on issues of national importance and common interest is suffering. Fourth, despite the establishment's stated desire to keep away, it is being sucked into the nasty political game. She says that the "opposition's strategy is to raise the costs of what it believes is the establishment's partisan role while the government," thus making the establishment central in the related media debate and political tussle. Fifth, the escalating political scenario – the Centre-Opposition war – which is diverting attention from challenges to the national economy. 

The three scenarios

Maleeha says the persistence of the current scenario can drive Pakistan into an unchartered territory with no winners. First, a no-change scenario where confrontation persists, leading to a "prolonged uptick in political tensions, disruption of parliamentary business", and escalation in the verbal-spate. Second, where the incumbent government implements restrictive measures to contain the opposition and further curbs media's freedom. Third, where all conflicting parties decide to step back for the betterment of Pakistan. She opines that the first two scenarios could be detrimental to Pakistan.

Quotable

"How long can the government that lacks an overall parliamentary majority and control of a key province insist it will have no truck with any opposition party and rule unilaterally? How long can the opposition sustain its protest movement? How long can both sides ignore people's problems without risking a loss of public support? How long can the establishment pretend it can stay out of a political confrontation that keeps drawing it in one way or another?" Maleeha asks. ("Dangerous deadlock," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan must reaffirm its commitment to the safety of journalists says The News 
An editorial in the News International critical of the plight of journalist says that the country which is often described as a dangerous place for journalists and most of those killed or threatened are reporters who struggle to make ends meet and work in the most dangerous parts of the country. In light of the UN's International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, marked on 2 November, the editorial looks into the motives for these crimes vary from action by state agencies, criminal gangs, mafias or from conflict and war, adding that to curb such crimes, those responsible must be penalised under the law. Further, the editorial states that until governments start respecting the role the media plays in such trying circumstances, journalists around the world will continue to pay the ultimate price for doing their jobs.

One-third of the journalists facing legal cases filed mainly by the Pakistani state are at risk of being charged under the Anti-Terrorism Law: Freedom Network 
According to the editorial, a report by Pakistani media rights watchdog the Freedom Network shows that one-third of the journalists facing legal cases filed mainly by the Pakistani state are at risk of being charged under the Anti-Terrorism Law. Further, the report states that print media practitioners are twice as likely to be the target of legal action that television media practitioners.

A society where journalists continue to be silenced with impunity is a society that is afraid of asking critical questions
The editorial concluded by stating that a society where journalists continue to be silenced with impunity is a society which is scared of asking critical questions. In this regard, the country must reiterate its commitment to the safety of journalists not just by solving the unsolved murders of journalists but also the unresolved and continuing series of mysterious abductions of journalists, the constant use of state institutions to target journalists, and the crippling censorship. ("Journalists in danger," The News International, 2 November 2020)

Pakistan ranked at the 9th position among countries where journalists are murdered and their killers go free: CPJ
On 28 October, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in its report title 'Getting Away with Murder' ranked Pakistan in the 9th position among countries where journalists are murdered and their killers go free, according to the Global Impunity Index. The report pointed out to Pakistan and other countries where "corruption, weak institutions, and lack of political will to pursue robust investigations into the killings of journalists are all factors behind impunity in Pakistan, Mexico and the Philippines." Further, it said, in the last 10 years, as many as 15 journalists have been murdered in Pakistan and none of the cases, killers have been brought to justice. (Elana Beiser, "Getting Away with Murder," Committee to Protect Journalists, 28 October 2020)

PTI to hold counter-PDM rally on 7 November
On 1 November, a PTI Member of National Assembly said Imran Khan would address a public meeting on 7 November in Hafizabad as a response to the PDM rallies. President of the Punjab PTI said Imran would lay the foundation stone of the University of Hafizabad and announce the construction of a 400-bed hospital in the area before the public meeting. He said the meeting was not a response to the PDM but they were holding it because they felt the need to "go to the public in current circumstances." According to some analysts, Hafizabad was chosen because it is close to Gujranwala where the PDM held its maiden public meeting and PTI wants to understand the public pulse. (Waseem Ashraf Butt, "PTI plans public meetings to 'counter PDM campaign'," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

Maryam Nawaz criticises ISPR DG, defends Ayaz Sadiq
On 1 November, Maryam Nawaz said it "does not suit the armed forces and other institutions to appear as if they are standing behind a specific party." She said that though Imran Khan and his government dragged the institutions into politics for their own gains, State institutions are for everyone. She said any discrimination would lead to a widening divide between the masses and institutions. Referring to the ISPR DG's recent remarks, she said he should be careful and professional as he is the spokesperson of the institution. Further, she criticised army officials for "alleged kidnapping of the Sindh IGP" and also pushed for holding Asim Bajwa accountable. (Amjad Mahmood, "Divide growing between masses and institutions, says Maryam," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

Maryam said Ayaz Sadiq's recent statement was not aimed at the armed forces but "by conducting a press conference, it was being portrayed as if it was." Sadiq later released a clarification after Indian media's "misreporting and misquoting." Maryam criticised the ISPR DG for not issuing a press release over Fawad Chaudhry's controversial remarks on Pulwama. ("Maryam Nawaz defends Ayaz Sadiq's controversial Indian pilot remarks," The Express Tribune, 1 November 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Trump setting the stage for Constitutional crisis, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn says traces the "disastrous and divisive" Trump presidency as the world gears up for 3 November. The editorial says the Trump administration has "ignited fires on multiple fronts and have been on the wrong side of far too many rights issues." It lists out: discrimination against immigrants, racial discriminations, mismanagement of the pandemic, escalation of tensions with China, withdrawal from the Iran deal and Paris Agreement, and unsuccessful attempt to reinvent Middle East politics. The editorial says by being distrustful of the election process - by claiming electoral fraud - Trump is "setting the stage for a potential constitutional crisis that America has never witnessed before." ("America's choice," Dawn, 2 November 2020)

Afghanistan far from realising Doha deal, says opinion piece
An opinion article in The Express Tribune says despite tall claims in the US-Taliban Doha deal signed in February 2020, the only objective of both sides was the withdrawal of US troops. The author says the future of Afghanistan will affect Pakistan. He proposes a hypothetical situation - Afghanistan's Pakhtun population's success in imposing its beliefs on other ethnic groups - and asks how Pakistan would deal with this. He asks how Afghanistan; a Sunni extremist country would deal with a Shia country like Iran and how Pakistan will handle their conflict. He also raises concerns about the "emergence of leaders in several parts of the troubled country [Afghanistan] who are enforcing on the local population their version of Islamic rule." Further, he says the continuing attacks by Taliban also have to be addressed post the Doha deal. He says Afghanistan is far from going in the direction of the Doha deal. (Shahid Javed Burki, "Afghanistan after Doha deal," The Express Tribune, 1 November 2020)

 


"Today, I pray for the safety of those following the N-League’s narrative and wish for them to get divine’s guidance.”

 Interior Minister Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah

 


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