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Daily Briefs

PM Imran Khan wants to bring back Nawaz Sharif at the earliest:


Photo: Dawn



On 29 September, following a Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) with bringing back former-Prime Minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supreme leader Nawaz Sharif from London, at the earliest. Nawaz has been in the UK since November 2019 on medical grounds. The PM directed the relevant authorities to pursue the matter vigorously. ("PM wants Nawaz brought back from UK at the earliest," Dawn, 30 September 2020) ("FO, FIA tasked with bringing Nawaz Sharif back," The News International, 30 September 2020)

The immediate context
On 15 September, the Islamabad High Court (IHC)had ordered the Center to arrest Nawaz Sharif and present him before the court. Responding to the court ruling, the PML-N said it honoured the court decisions, but Nawaz Sharif would return once his health permitted him. According to Dawn, the decision came a day before the IHC is expected to ask the federal government about measures it had taken to bring Sharif back. A cabinet member told the daily that the Center had already sent a request to the British government for Nawaz's repatriation. He said, "Although we have no extradition treaty with the United Kingdom, wanted people can be repatriated under special arrangements as we had also handed over some people to the UK". Imran Khan formed a committee of certain cabinet members to deal with the previously announced protest campaign by the opposition.

An analysis in Dawn calls it the "Autumn of Discontent"
Zahid Hussain says in the light of the recent revelations and disclosures and Nawaz's fiery MPC speech, the resultant political storm poses a significant question: "who is in charge here?" "One characteristic of hybrid rule is the duality of power, and that has its own perils. The present political disorder is symptomatic of this incongruity. Indeed, the civil and military imbalance of power has been a major reason for perpetual political instability in the country. But the current situation is more about the abdication of civilian authority to the security establishment," he writes. ("Autumn of discontent," Dawn, 30 September 2020) The Dawn analysis opines that "politics in Pakistan may be poised to enter a real action-packed phase. This is indicated by the tone of important opposition politicians and reconfirmed by the rigid response of the current custodians of the system," it argues. It says, "Mr Shahbaz 'in' the lock-up and Ms Nawaz' out' in the open could actually mean Shahbaz left 'out' of the game to ponder over latest reconciliatory techniques and Ms Nawaz being 'in-charge'…The PML-N workers she inspires must have been hoping this was the moment the defiant leader in her came of age. Their spirits might have been lifted by glimpses of that leader flashing from the stage, but for the first time perhaps she betrayed another side to her — the side which told her not everyone could carry the weight of the narrative she and her father have championed. Perhaps a bit of Shahbaz Sharif coming in to temper a Nawaz Sharif protégé? Ultimately, it is always this mix that determines the future course." ("Maryam in the mix," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

Meanwhile…
On 29 September, an accountability court granted a 14-day physical remand of Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President Shahbaz Sharif to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in assets beyond means and money-laundering case. It also issued non-bailable arrest warrants for daughter Rabia Imran and Shahbaz's wife Nusrat Shahbaz. ("Money-laundering, assets case: Non-bailable arrest orders for Shahbaz's wife, daughter," The News International, 30 September 2020)

 
PM Imran Khan has asked the Afghans to reduce violence (Image Source: The News)

Pakistan asks Afghanistan to "Cut Violence"
According to the News International, on 29 September, PM Imran Khan expressed hope that the Afghan leadership would utilize the opportunity to "work together constructively and secure an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement". Mr Khan said all Afghan conflicting parties must work for a reduction in violence and towards a ceasefire. The Premiere added that Pakistan "would support whatever the Afghans agree upon the future of Afghanistan". He also reaffirmed Pakistan's complete support for the reconstruction and economic development of post-conflict Afghanistan. ("Pakistan to Afghanistan: Cut violence, we stand by you," The News International, 30 September 2020)

National Media opines
Maleeha Lodhi, writing for Dawn, calls it a "Moment of opportunity". She says "Fundamental issues are at stake…Difficult and delicate negotiations lie ahead. The path to peace will not be easy. A political settlement will require tough compromises by both the Afghan government and the Taliban. Hurdles will be encountered. But both parties must know that the Afghan people, having struggled through decades of turmoil, conflict and war, yearn for peace and expect the talks to yield an outcome that ends their country's long night of suffering."

Meanwhile…
A federal cabinet meeting approved a visa policy for Afghanistan following the visit of Dr Abdullah Abdullah, the High Council for National Reconciliation Chairman, to Pakistan. Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) Chairman Dr Qibla Ayaz said he would urge the Afghan leader Abdullah Abdullah to establish a CII-like institution in Afghanistan. ("Abdullah to be requested to form CII-like body in Afghanistan: Ayaz," Dawn, 29 September 2020) Radio Pakistan reported that Dr Abdullah Abdullah thanked the Pakistani leadership for facilitating the Afghan peace process to its logical conclusion, during a meeting with FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Islamabad. ("Afghan reconciliation leader thanks Pakistan for facilitating peace process," Dawn, 29 September 2020) And, FM Qureshi assured Afghanistan of Islamabad's full support for the Afghan peace process. Qureshi said Islamabad wanted to be "friends not masters". ("'Friends not masters': FM Qureshi assures Afghanistan of complete support for peace process," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

 
The opposition parties have decided to start the "Pakistan Democratic Movement" from Quetta on 11 October (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief
INTERNAL
The opposition says that the first PDM to be held on 11 October in Quetta
On 29 September, opposition leader announced that the first Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) which is an alliance of almost all major opposition parties seeking to oust the government would be held on 11 October in Quetta. Further, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi while addressing a press conference after PDM's first formal meeting in Islamabad, said that the anti-government movement would be launched across the country after the "historic" rally in Quetta, adding, "This movement will keep growing and will be successful in ridding Pakistan of this undemocratic process," adding, "You will see that this movement will give rise to a true political change in Pakistan's political history." The PDM was formed at the Multi-Party Conference, where opposition parties announced the launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an "action plan" which is to start from next month with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies in December and a "decisive long march" towards Islamabad in January 2021. ("Opposition to hold first 'historic' rally under PDM banner on Oct 11 in Quetta," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

PBC forms Journalistic Defence Committee to protect the rights of journalists
On 29 September, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) constituted a seven-member Journalistic Defence Committee to protect the rights of journalists. According to the PBC, the committee was formed in the light of the alleged policies of the government which have undermined the freedom of expression through a draconian cybercrime law, making it difficult for journalists to discharge and perform their duties independently in accordance with the demand of their professional obligations and journalistic practices. The PBC also stated that distressed journalist in need of legal aid or services could approach the committee. Further, this move comes amidst the larger perception of the decreasing space for dissent and the right to expression in the country. (Nasir Iqbal, "PBC forms body to defend journalists," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

An editorial says that Lahore's CCPO should be sacked
An editorial in the Dawn critical of CCPO Lahore Umar Sheikh insensitive remarks made before a Senate panel states that once exposes his sexist views on how women should behave. The editorial states that the CCPO must be sacked if the government wants to stimulate any public confidence about solving the Lahore Motorway case, adding that citizens need to be assured that a responsible, sensitised official is in charge of their safety. Further, the editorial adds that there is a need to sensitise the police force when it comes to violence against women, among which they must most importantly avoid blaming the victim, trivialising the incident and passing judgement. ("Unrepentant sexism," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Finance Ministry says debt to remain a major challenge
On 29 September, the Finance Ministry while briefing the federal cabinet said that the increasing public debt would remain a major challenge, however, adding that the pace of debt accumulation slowed down during the second year of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. Adviser to Prime Minister on Finance in the presentation of the increase in public debt between June 2018 and June 2020, termed the last fiscal year (2019-20) a "good year" for debt adding that in the previous fiscal year, the pace of debt accumulation decreased by more than half when compared with the first year, the cabinet was informed. However, officials stated that the financial adviser told the federal cabinet that public debt would remain a major challenge and it now required careful management. (Shahbaz Rana, "Debt to remain major challenge," The News International, 30 September 2020)

EXTERNAL 
PM Imran Khan calls for an extension in G20 debt relief
On 29 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a high-level summit on the 'Financing for Development in the Era of Covid-19 and Beyond' on the side-lines of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly, calls for a one-year extension in G20 debt service suspension initiative, stating that this initiative should not affect the country's credit rating, since this is due to force majeure, and not mismanagement. He also stated that the multilateral development banks should also involve themselves in the debt suspension initiative, along with other short-term measures which could cover both official and private creditors should be considered. Further, he added that the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in mass human suffering and controlling the virus was critical to addressing both the health and the economic emergencies. (Rizwan Shehzad, "PM calls for one-year extension in G20 debt relief," The Express Tribune, 29 September 2020)

Cross-border movement at Torkham allowed for pedestrians
On 29 September, Federal Ministry of Interior permitted the 'competent authorities' to open the Torkham border crossing for pedestrian traffic for four days a week. Both citizens of Pakistan and Afghanistan will be allowed to travel to both the neighbouring countries on 'valid passport and visa'.This border was opened for pedestrian movement on 16 May for once a week after it was closed due to the pandemic. The closure of the border for almost two months had left hundreds of local labourers and daily wagers jobless as they would assist the passengers in carrying their personal belongings up to the border crossing and bringing the same from zero points to the taxi stand, further, it also affected the bilateral trade between the two countries. (Ibrahim Shinwari, "Pedestrians allowed cross-border movement at Torkham," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Pakistan must have Germany as its role model, says an opinion
An opinion in the Dawn states that while addressing the Kashmir issue Pakistan must have Germany as its role model, who is known for or accused of warmongering, showed a high degree of quiet determination in the aftermath of World War II to see the day when Germany would be unified without war. The opinion states that Indian domination in Kashmir will come to an end and will be a part of Pakistan one day, however, while following this aim, Pakistanis must realise severe realities, including Arab governments' indifference to the Kashmiri people's enslavement. Further, it adds that while keeping a non-armed stance, the goal should be to make Pakistan a developed country armed with the strengths of science and technology and wipe out poverty. Finally concluding by stating that nothing is more important than Pakistan itself. (Muhammad Ali Siddiqi, "Kashmir & Germany," Dawn, 30 September 2020)

 


"The army chief has been quoted as saying that the security forces would serve any elected government. But that is not what has been happening. The general impression is that the military leadership is party to the relentless persecution of the opposition leaders in the name of accountability. The shrinking democratic space in the country is at odds with these solemn pledges of impartiality. The statements of some federal ministers claiming to be speaking on the military’s behalf raise more questions about the latter’s increasing political role.”

-  An analysis by Zahid Hussain in Dawn, 30 September 2020

 

 


Shahbaz Sharif's arrest causes an upheavel:


Photo: Dawn



On 28 September, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) arrested the Leader of Opposition in National Assembly and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif. The arrest was following the Lahore High Court (LHC) denying Shahbaz further relief of pre-arrest bail in the case of assets beyond means and money laundering. Pakistan People's Party leader Asif Zardari was also indicted. The arrests kicked off a blizzard of criticism of the incumbent PTI government. ("PML-N breathes defiance after Shahbaz's arrest," Dawn, 29 September 2020)

The Context
The developments have come ahead of the upcoming planned protests scheduled to take place in the course of the month of October by the opposition parties. The protests were said to be in demand of the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan. ("Watershed moment in politics: Shahbaz arrested, Zardari indicted," The News International, 29 September 2020)

Reactions and Responses
The PML-N said the drive against 'fascist regime' had begun. The party leadership strongly reacted to the arrest and said it would not hinder the implementations of the decisions of the multiparty conference's (MPC) and the newly-formed opposition's alliance, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). PML-N has called for a meeting on 29 September to review the following: first, the ground situation after Shahbaz's detention; second, possible arrests of other opposition leaders; third, the incumbent PTI government's plan to rig local and Gilgit-Baltistan elections; and last, to finalise the MPC decisions. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called his brother's arrest "unjustifiable and unacceptable". Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz held a presser to condemn the Shahbaz's arrest and said: "We have the options of decisive long march and resignations".

Ex-Premier Nawaz says the Opposition cannot be "silenced through coercive tactics"
Nawaz Sharif tweeted from London, "The puppet regime has endorsed the MPC's resolution by arresting Shahbaz. Shahbaz Sharif had told the MPC that whether he would be in jail or not all decisions taken in MPC would be implemented. I want to say… make no mistake, we can never be silenced through coercive tactics". Responding to a question whether Shahbaz's arrest was expected after Nawaz's fiery speech at the MPC, the former premier said "The nation was expecting Asim Bajwa to be arrested and was waiting for him to be asked to show how a serving officer amassed so many assets in 15-20 years. He should have been arrested but instead they arrested Shahbaz Sharif."

Maryam Nawaz calls for Asim Bajwa's arrest
Maryam Nawaz tweeted: "Make no mistake. Shahbaz Sharif has been arrested ONLY because he REFUSED to play in the hands of those who wanted to use him against his brother (Nawaz Sharif). He preferred standing behind prison bars than to stand against his brother. Shahbaz Sharif, aap ko SALAM." During the presser in Lahore, Maryam said "The institutions that imposed an immature, incompetent, corrupt and inexperienced person like Imran Khan should think that he has landed the country in disaster. From the fall of Kashmir to the fall of the economy, this government has done blunders unprecedented in the history of the country". Maryam asked "Has anybody any courage to summon Asim Bajwa for having huge assets? Despite having a business empire of 99 companies, Asim Saleem Bajwa is roaming free, and no institution is ready to investigate him. The children of Nawaz and Shahbaz were tagged as dependents on their fathers only to institute false cases against them while the children of Asim Bajwa are accepted as independent with their own businesses". The retired Lt-Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa is the chairman of the CPEC Authority and SAPM on the information. 

"Those who cave in become Judge Arshad Malik and those who stand up are persecuted like Justice Qazi Faiz Isa and Justice Shaukat Siddiqui. We stand with the judiciary to liberate it from this pressure and also the media," she added.

Previously…
Shahbaz was first arrested on 5 Oct 2018 in the Ashiana-i-Iqbal Housing Scheme. Later, he was also arrested in the Ramzan Sugar Mills case. However, the LHC had released Shahbaz on bail in both cases on 17 Feb 2019.

 
PM Imran Khan speaks on the need for a holistic approach to develop the tribal areas (Image Source: The News)

PM Imran Khan blames PPP and PML-N for their lack of holistic development, plans to fully concentrate on the development of tribal areas'

On 28 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing the inaugural ceremony of Mamadgat-Munda Road in Mohmand district stated that while the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) got votes from the interior Sindh, it did not do anything for the welfare of the residents, leaving Karachi to drown in problems. Further, he said that the same was the situation in Punjab where the PML-N government focused on Lahore, ignoring the rest of the province. (Hasbanullah Khan, SM Shakirullah Mohmand, "PPP did nothing for Karachi, PML-N focused on upper Punjab: PM Imran Khan," The News International, 29 September 2020)

Govt to fully concentrate on the development of tribal areas'
PM Khan at the ceremony also stated that the government would fully concentrate on developing tribal areas stating, "I am afraid that certain elements that do not want stability in these areas will try to plan something [...] and they are fully funded by some foreign countries. Therefore, we will concentrate on the full development of these areas," adding that the tribal areas have not been developed properly since the last 70 years.

Further, he stated, "[My government's] desire is to lift up the weaker sections. When there is development in a country, it should be for the uplifting of all areas rather than the development of one area while the rest of them are left behind," adding, "Our [policy] is that we have to give most attention to the most backward areas."

Merger with KP important for trade and tourism
Separately, while addressing the ground-breaking ceremony of Timargarh-Khar-Mamad-Gat Road in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said that no politician knew the tribal areas better than him, adding, "I know what concerns the people had when [tribal areas] were being merged and how they would have been left behind without it." Further, he stated that it was necessary to merge the areas with KP because it would facilitate trade and movement of people, adding, "It was previously very difficult for someone to come here if they wanted to set up an industry [...] Our effort is to develop these areas so educational institutions and industries can be set up." ("Govt to fully concentrate on tribal areas' development to thwart plans to create instability: PM," Dawn, 29 September 2020)

 
The primary schools are opening from Wednesday (Image Source: Dawn)

In-Brief
INTERNAL
Primary schools to open tomorrow
Citing that educational institutions witnessed only one per cent infection rate, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) unanimously decided today to reopen primary schools tomorrow (Wednesday). 

Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mehmood said the decision was taken after consultations among all federating units including "Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK)" and Gilgit-Baltistan. Mr Mehmood added that among the 171,436 coronavirus tests carried out in educational institutions since their reopening on September 15, only 1,248 tests were positive. He also ensured that action will be taken against educational institutions violating standard operating procedures. ("NCOC decides to reopen primary schools from tomorrow," The Express Tribune, 29 September 2020)

The opposition wants chaos ahead of Senate polls: Rashid Ahmed
Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has challenged the Opposition to push for a no-confidence motion against PM Imran Khan and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, ahead of the Senate polls in March. He alleged that the Opposition parties were backed by foreign countries and did not wish to see the incumbent government's stability. However, Mr Ahmed was confident that the Opposition would not resign as the PM had announced that the government would hold by-elections for vacant seats. 

Mr Ahmed criticised PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz for holding a press conference after the National Accountability Bureau arrested Shahbaz Sharif and alleged that she was only trying to save her family and its wealth. On Asif Zardari's indictment in the fake bank accounts case, Mr Ahmed said Mr Zardari's arrest would make no difference in the country's political scenario as he kept on going in and coming out of jails. 

Elections on half of the 104-member Senate seats are scheduled in March next year and the ruling PTI, with its current majority in Punjab and KP provincial assemblies, is expected to become the single largest party in the upper house of parliament where presently opposition is in a majority. ("Opposition wants chaos ahead of Senate polls: ministerDawn, 29 September 2020)

Pakistan's zero-sum politics on political friction within
An editorial in the Dawn focuses on the rising political friction in the country. The editorial says that Pakistani politics is turning into a zero-sum game wherein the PTI calls the Opposition a mafia and the Opposition brands the government as a 'selected' one. It highlights that though both sides refuse to recognise each other's credentials, they have no option but to be locked into a system till the 2023 elections. On the other hand, constant political tension may lead to a dysfunctional system.

The editorial urges the government to give the Opposition a democratic space as resorting to inflammatory speeches against the Opposition is ill-suited for a system struggling to find stability.The editorial also reminds the Opposition to tread carefully and not push matters to the brink. All institutions must respect their constitutional limitations and work within the boundaries drawn. ("At daggers drawnDawn,29 September 2020)

PROVINCE: KHYBER-PAKHTUNKHWA
Polio Vaccination challenges continue
As many as 142,962 children (2.19 per cent of the target) of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province missed the polio vaccination during the recent anti-polio drive. Parents of 48,544 children refused to vaccinate their children while 94,418 children were not present at their homes during the drive. A Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa health department report gives a district-wise breakdown of such cases. This year so far 22 polio cases have been registered in the province. 

Experts say challenges to addressing polio include loopholes in the campaign, lack of training, false rumours associating the vaccine and above all fake markings on children's fingers to dodge vaccinators. The provincial health department revealed that last year over a million parents in KP refused to allow their children to be vaccinated.

In an effort to eliminate the poliovirus, the provincial government had launched a polio immunisation campaign on 20 September and also increased the honorarium of anti-polio workers from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000. ("Over 48,000 K-P parents refuse polio vaccination," The Express Tribune, 29 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Wheat shortage, high prices and mismanagement
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce on Monday demanded the government to fix the support price of wheat and to announce maximum incentives for local growers to get rid of the wheat crisis. Committee Chairman Syed Naveed Qamar observed that serious mismanagement in prior planning of wheat imports caused not only shortage of wheat and a hike in the price of flour; price of wheat in the market is higher than the imported rate or landed price.

The Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Food Security & Research informed the Committee that the cabinet had approved an import of 1.5 million metric tonnes of wheat by Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP). The imports will arrive between October 2020 and January 2021. ("Wheat price in market higher than imported rate, note MPs," The Nation, 29 September 2020)

Inflation rate fixed at 9 per cent
The Ministry of Finance in its monthly report said that the economic revival observed in the first two months (July-August) of the current fiscal year 2020-21 may be hampered in September due to climatological change. The headline inflation for September 2020 is expected to remain within a range of 7.8 per cent to 9 per cent.

Internal trade: The Monthly Economic Update and Outlook report said torrential rains during the last two months damaged a few crops in south Punjab and Sindh and thus increased the cost of production. However, it increased the long-term availability of water and water-intensive crops like sugarcane and rice are expected to improve in terms of yield. 

External trade: Exports for the Q1 FY21 are expected to remain at around $5.2 - 5.8 billion as compared to $6 billion during the same period last year. Imports are expected to be around $10.0 - 11.1billion for Q1 FY21 compared to $11 billion of last year.

Remittances: Remittances will remain at $6.2 - 6.5 billion during Q1 FY 2021 compared to $5.4 billion of last year. ("Finance ministry projects inflation at around 9pc," Dawn, 29 September 2020 and "Climate change may hamper economic recovery," The Express Tribune, 29 September 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW 
A new dawn for Afghanistan
Afghanistan High Council for National Reconciliation Chairman Dr Abdullah Abdullah's visit has opened a new chapter in its bilateral relations with Pakistan. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi encouraged all parties of the Afghan peace process to reach a political solution through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process. Mr Qureshi highlighted the five recently opened border crossing-points for transit trade, bilateral trade and pedestrian movement. He emphasised on the importance of economic relations and ensured that the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) negotiations and Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) revision would commence soon. 

Mr Qureshi also discussed the need for close cooperation through bilateral institutions including relevant working groups of Afghanistan Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity for effective border management to eliminate the common threat of terrorism. 

Taking to Twitter, Mr Abdullah said "I hope this visit will open a new chapter of mutual cooperation at all levels, especially on achieving a lasting and dignified peace in Afghanistan." ("Let's bury the past, focus on future," The News International, 29 September 2020)

India's silence on FinCEN files 
An editorial in The Express Tribune focuses on India's problematic financial oversight in the light of the recent FinCEN leaks. The editorial highlights that over 2,000 transactions worth over $1 billion between 2011 and 2017 with listed addresses in India came under suspicious activity reports (SARs). Coincidentally, Australian bank Westpac recently agreed to pay a regulatory fine over US $900 million for allowing over 23 million suspicious transactions during a similar timeframe. 

The editorial says that while the worst offenders appear to be India's state-owned banks like the Punjab National Bank, India consistently tried to portray Pakistan as a violator of the FATF rules. It points out that Indian leaders did not comment on the FinCEN leaks and India's central bank hid behind privacy laws to avoid saying why it kept facilitating illegal transactions. ("Shady Indian banks," The Express Tribune, 29 September 2020)

 


"Pakistani politics is fast turning into a zero-sum game. The PTI leadership continues to call the opposition leadership a ‘mafia’ while the opposition has branded the government as a ‘selected’ one. Neither appears to accept the other’s democratic credentials, and yet both are locked into a system that has to function till the next elections in 2023. It is, therefore, unfortunate that a normal working relationship between key stakeholders is almost non-existent.”

-  Editorial, Dawn on Shahbaz Sharif's arrest and the political situation

 

 


Abdullah Abdullah in Pakistan for a three days visit:


Photo: Dawn



The Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, is visiting Pakistan on 28 September for a three-day visit. According to the statement by the Foreign Office on 27 September, a high-level delegation of the High Council for National Reconciliation members will be accompanying Dr Abdullah. This will be Abdullah's first Pakistan-visit as the chairman of the HCNR. ("Afghanistan's reconciliation leader Abdullah arrives today," Dawn, 28 September 2020)

Upcoming events and meetings
The FO said that, in the course of the visit, Abdullah would meet President Dr Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Imran Khan, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani, Speaker of National Assembly Asad Qaiser, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and significant others. According to Dawn, Abdullah will meet journalists and speak at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad. 

"An opportunity for wide-ranging exchange of views"
Dawn says the visit would give an opportunity for an exchange of views and perspectives regarding wide-ranging issues and concerns on the Afghan peace process and to strengthen the Af-Pak bilateral ties, amity, brotherhood and people-to-people interactions. The article opines that Islamabad attributes "high importance to its fraternal ties with Afghanistan, rooted deep in shared history, faith, culture, values and traditions. Pakistan fully supports all efforts for peace, stability and prosperity of the Afghan people," it adds.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker says proposed changes for Pak-Afghan visa policy would be approved by the federal cabinet soon. 
On 27 September, during an interview to Pakistan Television, National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser said Dr Abdullah Abdullah's visit to Pakistan would be a milestone in reinforcing Pak-Afghan relations. Asad said Pakistan fully supported an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace initiative. A peaceful Afghanistan was in the best interest of the region and Pakistan in particular, he added. Asad opined that regular engagement at functionaries' and political levels had shunned foreign attempts to disrupt Af-Pak ties. He added that with the advent of peace in Afghanistan, Pakistan would expedite the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees. Asad credited himself for bringing significant changes to the naturalization laws to give national status to Afghans born and raised in Pakistan. He also stated that trading communities on both sides would play an important role to boost their respective national economies. Asad said the government had implemented over 80 per cent of the recommendations and that the Pak-Afghan visa policy's proposed changes would soon be approved by the federal cabinet.

PM Imran Khan says a hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan would be "unwise"
On 26 September, through an op-ed published in The Washington Post, Prime Minister Imran Khan cautioned against setting unrealistic timelines for Afghan peace and warned that a hasty international withdrawal from Afghanistan would be "unwise". He said that the intra-Afghan negotiations were "likely to be even more difficult, requiring patience and compromise from all sides". "Progress could be slow and painstaking; there may even be the occasional deadlock, as Afghans work together for their future. At such times, we would do well to remember that a bloodless deadlock on the negotiating table is infinitely better than a bloody stalemate on the battlefield," he wrote. Imran Khan assured continued support to the Afghan peace process. he said "Like the United States, Pakistan does not want to see Afghanistan become a sanctuary for international terrorism ever again." "How can the world help a postwar Afghanistan transition to sustainable peace? How do we create conditions that will enable the millions of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan, and other countries, to return to their homeland with dignity and honour?" the Premiere asked. ("A hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan would be unwise, writes PM in op-ed," Dawn, 27 September 2020)

 
Minister Shibli Faraz questions Nawaz Sharif's speech and thinks there would be more divide within the party (Image Source: Dawn)

Shibli Faraz says PML-N movement is baseless with more divisions soon to come
On 27 September, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shibli Faraz while addressing the media stated that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's narrative was merely intended at creating uncertainty and chaos in the country, while his own party was unwilling to accept this narrative with various voices being raised within the party. Additionally, stating that there were members in the PLM-N who knew that Nawaz's was using them for his interests. Further, he said the movement launched by the PML-N was baseless, adding that Nawaz's revolutionary stance was not only fake but also based on double standards.

More division to come in the PLM-N ranks
Shibli in the context of the Sharif family facing other issues, quoted Sheikh Rasheed, who had remarked that more divisions in the PML-N ranks would surface soon. Further, he said that the political movement of PML-N was baseless and without any solid reason for they wanted to create chaos, which was now evident in its ranks. Given this circumstance, Shibli conjectured what may be the moral value of PML-N's activities and moves, adding that it was because of these reasons the opposition was forced to make blackmail the government and was threatening to tender resignations.

Not threatened by the opposition 
Shibli reiterated Prime Minister Imran Khan's recent statement where he said that if the opposition were to resign, the government would hold by-elections and get a majority in the House, proving to be beneficial for legislation. He said that the strategies used to remove the government would eventually fail in their designs. Shibli said the PML-N was looking for a deal and making contacts constantly with government's people. Further, pointing out to the opposition's failed attempts at taken on the FATF bills, he said that now the opposition wanted to come on the streets and that the PML-N leaders had always done politics of nepotism because they had been in politics for making assets. However, he added that the prime minister was committed to the accountability of all the corrupt elements.

In response, PML-N secretary-general says there is no division in the party
On 27 September, PML-N secretary-general Ahsan Iqbal stated that there were no differences between PML-N leaders and that the party is ready to oust the government along with other opposition parties, stating, "Any member of the party is free to express their opinion, but all members stick to whatever decision the party arrives at over any matter." Further, he also dismissed the idea that there were no ideological differences between PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif.

Iqbal stated that given the current situation, there should be a "reset" and that it is a time for self-reflection, adding that the country's political parties must realize their faults of the past. He also said that the opposition's efforts should be looked at as a political struggle. Further stating that there was a need to move the country from the tracks that it had been on for the last 72 years, adding, "We have to ensure that the constitution is upheld, that there is freedom of the judiciary, and a transparent political system." (Mumtaz Alvi, "PML-N to come apart soon: Shibli Faraz," The News International, 28 September 2020)

 
Pakistan arranges a visit of the diplomats from 24 countries to the Line of Countrol. (Image Source: The News)

In-Brief
INTERNAL 
More power for regulators against money laundering
At least five Pakistani regulators will cooperate with their foreign counterparts for to share, request and receive information relating to money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT). These include the State Bank of Pakistan, Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, Supervisory Board for National Savings Schemes and Pakistan Post, the Federal Board of Revenue, and Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan. 

According to the recent Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Act amendments, there will be self-regulatory bodies (SRBs) for the AML/CFT regulatory authorities. The federal government will constitute the National Executive Committee responsible for effective implementation of the Act. The federal government will also constitute a general committee to assist the NEC. ("More powers for regulators against money launderingThe News International, 28 September 2020)

Silencing online voices
An editorial in The News Internationalhighlights the clampdown on social media under the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The editorial cites social media rumours that penal actions against journalists and social media activists may be taken for their online content. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan stated that such an act would violate free expression and further suppress the right to speak about various issues. Passed in 2016 by former PM Nawaz Sharif, the law gave authority to censor speech online and criminalize political dissent.

An opinion column in the Dawn gives a detailed insight into the issue. Around two weeks ago four FIRs were registered against journalists and activists by unrelated citizens, complaining about "negative propaganda against state institutions" on their social media handle. There has been coverage about a possible amendment to the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) to penalize any citizen who ridicules or defames the army or a member. Despite the Supreme Court disallowing the FIA from charging citizens who are not public officials under the PPC, sections from the PPC are added along with PECA offences. The author suggests that PECA should be amended and FIA must be held accountable in the Parliament because controlling social media and harassing individuals is undemocratic. ("Freedom online?The News International,28 September 2020 and "Chilling effect," Dawn, 28 September 2020)

Panel to deal with legislative cases
Following the cabinet's approval to enhance the mandate of the Cabinet Committee for disposal of Legislative Cases, Prime Minister Imran Khan has formed a committee for the same. The CCLC would examine whether a fresh legislation or amendments to the existing laws were in line with the constitutional scheme, not in violation of any existing law, and fall within the mandate of parliament. ("PM forms panel to deal with legislative cases," The News International, 28 September 2020) 

Opposition alleges bias, Speaker cancels GB meet
The National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser cancelled a meeting scheduled for Monday on the upcoming GB elections after the PPP announced its boycott alleging that the Speaker displayed a bias in the joint sitting of the Parliament. The opposition parties also condemned the Speaker's move to convene the meeting, saying the speaker and the federal government had no role in the GB elections.

Meanwhile, the opposition parties have already intensified the consultative process to give formal shape to the Pakistan Democratic Movement. Sources said the Opposition's anti-government movement may kick off from a public meeting in Quetta in the first week of October. ("Speaker nixes GB meet as opposition alleges bias," Dawn, 28 September 2020)

ENERGY AND ECONOMY
Outdated energy policies
An editorial in the Dawncriticises the energy sector policymakers who seem to be out of touch with ongoing power technology developments and availability of cheap renewable energy storage solutions. The editorial cites $450 million approved by the World Bank to support Pakistan's transition from expensive fossil fuels to affordable, renewable energy resources to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. 

However, Pakistan is far from achieving sustainability. The editorial gives the example of the Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan, 2047, prepared by the NTDC. The plan focuses on costly generation-based coal and regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), and ignores power technology. The plan focuses on additions of renewables to meet the targets of the Alternative Energy Policy, 2030, but neglects renewable resources in the overall energy mix beyond that.

The editorial says that unless Pakistan reduces its reliance on expensive fossil fuels and moves towards renewable energy, the goals of sustainability and affordability cannot be met. ("Renewable Energy," Dawn, 28 September 2020)

Three plants relieved of LNG purchases from SNGPL, PSO
The federal cabinet has approved doing away with the condition of "minimum 66 percent take-or-pay commitment of RLNG for three Punjab-based mega power plants" to boost privatization proceeds. It also aims to scale down power sector liabilities amounting to over Rs 2.15 trillion. The Cabinet Committee on Energy agreed to relieve the three plans from Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL) and Pakistan State Oil (PSO) which have 100 percent guaranteed commitments for LNG purchases from Qatar and private suppliers.

However, the cabinet directed the power division to provide a year-head consolidated annual production plan (CAPP) for the four RLNG-based government power plants (GPPs). The power division had earlier said that the GPPs had become uneconomical than local coal, local low pipeline quality gas and imported coal due to lower power demand, transition of towards cheaper and indigenous resources. ("Three plants relieved of LNG purchases from SNGPL, PSODawn, 28 September 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW 
Pakistan and the global balance of power
An opinion column in The Nationhighlights the balance of power between the USA, China and Russia. The author talks about the US' strategies like the Abraham Accords and QUAD to contain China. On the other hand, China is focussed on the CPEC and increasing its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. 

The author says that while India remains important in the balance of power between these powers, Pakistan is not far behind, especially with regard to CPEC. However, Pakistan faces three challenges. Firstly, hybrid warfare by India has resulted in Indians spreading misinformation on social media and character assassination of Pakistani officials. The author says this is India's attempt to exploit Pakistan's grand project and create misunderstandings between the citizens and its armed forces. Secondly, foreign-backed sectarian violence has increased and lastly, the placing of Pakistan in the FATF's grey list. These may be the West's strategies to build pressure on Pakistan. The author concludes by saying that to withstand the Western and Indian tactics of exploitation, Pakistan must resolve its internal problems. ("Old chessboard, new players," The Nation, 28 September 2020)

Modi ignores Kashmir in UNGA address: Pakistan
Pakistan Ambassador to the United Nations Munir Akram said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ignored Kashmir, Palestine and issues like climate change in his address to the UN General Assembly. 

Mr Akram said Mr Modi's speech was "divorced from the reality of an intolerant, divided, brutal and economically failing India locked in disputes with all its neighbours." According to Pakistan, Mr Modi also ignored issues regarding human rights violations in Kashmir and marginalization of India's minorities, especially Muslims, and instead spoke about trivial issues like building toilets. ("Modi ignored key issues in UN speech: Pakistan," Dawn, 28 September 2020)

 


"Progress could be slow and painstaking; there may even be the occasional deadlock, as Afghans work together for their future. At such times, we would do well to remember that a bloodless deadlock on the negotiating table is infinitely better than a bloody stalemate on the battlefield.”

-  Imran Khan on Afghanistan

 

 


J&K will never be a part of India, says Pakistan’s UN representative


Photo: Dawn



Rebuking the response from New Delhi to Prime Minister Imran Khan's speech at the 75thUnited Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Pakistan’s representative at the forum Zulqarnain Chheena stated that “Jammu and Kashmir never was and never will be a part of India”. Chheena said "In Jammu and Kashmir, India has no other claim than that of a military occupier. It is compelled to use naked force to impose its occupation on an unwilling and oppressed people. Ask the people of Jammu and Kashmir and they will tell you emphatically: Jammu and Kashmir is not a part of India. It never was and never will be". (“Kashmir will never be a part of India: Pakistan responds to Indian statement on PM's UNGA speech,” Dawn, 26 September 2020) The representative added that Pakistan and the Islamic world stood with the people of Kashmir. During the UNGA session, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had also raised his voice in support of the Kashmiri people and called for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. He said “The Kashmir conflict, which is key to the stability and peace of South Asia, is still a burning issue”. (Erdogan links peace in S. Asia to Kashmir issue settlement,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

Another attempt to deflect from real issues, says Pakistan

Cheena said that the Indian reply was nothing but "another shameful attempt to deflect attention away from the real issues…India, however, will not be able to escape accountability for its crimes. In his statement, the prime minister shed a spotlight on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's India which is defined by its oppressive and brutal occupation of the land and resources of Jammu and Kashmir.” Emphasizing that UNSC recognized J&K as an internationally disputed territory, he said “The final disposition of the state will be made in accordance with the will of the people expressed through democratic methods of a free and impartial plebiscite under the auspices of the UN.” He said: “The Kashmiris have a legitimate right to resist occupation by all means at their disposal. This just struggle cannot be denigrated or described as terrorism. It it the occupying state that is guilty of terrorism against the occupied people. Like all oppressors India continues to believe it can subdue the legitimate Kashmiri resistance through brute force. In its playbook, the alternative to suppression is even more suppression. But like all colonial oppressors of the past, India will fail in its strategy of occupation and oppression. Kashmir will be free one day. This is not only a lesson of history, it is also an imperative of justice,” Chheena added.

The Context: Imran Khan’s speech and New Delhi’s response

Imran Khan says “India is planning misadventure”

According to Dawn, during his UNGA speech on 25 September, PM Khan warned the international community “that India was planning another “ill-conceived misadventure” in a “nuclearised environment,” but Pakistan was ready to “fight for its freedom to the end””. He said “In order to divert attention from its illegal actions and atrocities in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir, India is playing a dangerous game of upping the military ante against Pakistan in a nuclearised strategic environment”. PM Khan called for action from UNSC to prevent the spiraling of the Kashmir dispute which could jeopardise the regional security. “I want to make it clear that any attempt by the fascist totalitarian RSS-led Indian government to aggress against Pakistan will be met by a nation that will fight for its freedom to the end,” he added. (“PM tells UN India is planning misadventure,” Dawn, 26 September 2020) (“At UNGA, PM Imran says 'wilful provocation' to hate should be 'universally outlawed',” Dawn, 26 September 2020)

Indian envoy walks out during PM Khan’s speech

The Indian delegate at the UNGA session, Mijito Vinito, walked out during the airing of Mr Khan’s pre-recorded UNGA speech. Soon after, India’s Permanent Representative at the UN TS Tirumurti took to twitter. He wrote, “PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, warmongering and obfuscation of Pakistan's persecution of its own minorities and of its cross-border terrorism”. Later, the Indian government responded to Mr Khan’s speech by accusing it of being “full of lies, misinformation and warmongering”. (“Indian Envoy Walks Out As Pak PM Imran Khan Begins Speech At UN,” NDTV, 26 September 2020)

In-Brief

INTERNAL

Crucial six months for the Opposition

An opinion column in theDawn suggests a possible way forward the Opposition can take to challenge the government before March, when the PTI and its allies would gain a comfortable majority in the Senate and increase control on both houses of parliament.

The author says that in the coming weeks, the government may try various tactics to hinder the momentum of the Opposition. These include refusal of permission for venues to hold rallies, clamping of Section 144 and the like. The PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif holds that they are against the establishment and not PM Imran Khan. The party may resort to establish a relationship with the government but leverage it as a bargaining tool for greater political space. Within the Opposition’s Pakistan Democratic Movement, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has been insisting on the Opposition resigning from the Parliament. Now, PPP leaders like Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari need to choose carefully between PML-N’s anti-establishment position and Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s do-or-die politics. 

On the other hand, the author says PM Khan just has to keep the Opposition under maximum pressure while minimising the chances of any untoward incident at PDM’s public engagement events. (“Knight moves,” Dawn, 26 September 2020)

Opposition trying to cause army-govt rift: Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said that the opposition wanted to create a rift between the government and armed forces. Mr Khan said the army followed the manifesto of the PTI because its leadership was not corrupt; he rejected the impression that the PTI government came into power with the army’s help.

Mr Khan said he was aware of the meetings between some Opposition members and the COAS and ISI Director General. He said the meeting was called from security point of view to brief the heads of political parties taking part in upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and he has no need to attend the meeting.  He said he would not give any National Reconciliation Ordinance-like relief to the “corrupt politicians” and that former PM Pervez Musharaff committed a mistake by doing so. He took the opportunity to say that he allowed airing of his Nawaz’s recent speech on TV channels to “give a level-playing field” to the opposition who he believes is “toeing an agenda of India.”

Mr Khan also mentioned that India wants to create unrest in GB and a sectarian crisis in Pakistan by killing religious leaders of Shia and Sunni sects of Islam. (“Opposition trying to cause army-govt rift: Imran, Dawn, 26 September 2020)

Rushing to open schools

An editorial in The Nationand an opinion column in The News International both ask whether opening schools has been rushed amid rising Covid-19 cases. 

There was a dire need to open schools owing to poor connectivity, lack of equipment to sustain online education, limited resources and the depreciating quality of instruction. However, the need for education has to be balanced against the need to safeguard health. In the first phase of opening, various universities experienced reported cases of Covid-19 and closed down again. Things are likely to become more confusing for decision makers when primary and lower secondary classes reopen. While elite schools can afford PPE kits for their staff and health checks, many other scholls face infrastructural challenges to enforce social distancing measures; some do not even have hand washing facilities. The pandemic brings out the societal inequalities and once again shows the poorest will suffer the risk of catching the virus. 

On the other hand psychologists say it is essential that children go to school and associate with peers otherwise children will miss out permanently on socialising. While the ethical dilemma continues, one of the authors says life and welfare should come ahead of everything else. (“School closure,The Nation, 26 September 2020 and “Rushing to reopen?The News International, 26 September 2020)

Hindus protest outside Indian embassy

Thousands of members of Hindu Community from across the country have reached Islamabad to protest the deaths of 11 Pakistani Hindus who died mysteriously last month in India’s Jodhpur region.  The Pakistan Hindu Council (PHC), headed by MNA Dr Ramesh Kumar has decided to stage a sit-in in front of the Indian High Commission. The protesters believe that the 11 were poisoned by the Indian intelligence agencies to spew hate against Pakistan. They also raised suspicion over the Indian media’s reporting of the incident as a suicide. 

Mr Kumar clarified that they did not want to enter the Embassy and cause damage. Their main demand was a transparent investigation into the incident and that all the human rights organizations worldwide should take notice of such brutal killings of Pakistani Hindus in Modi’s India. (“Hindus protest outside Indian embassy over migrant deaths  in India,” The Nation, 26 September 2020)

ECONOMY

PPP slams hike in power tariff and essential goods’ prices 

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) on Friday slammed the government for hike in power tariff and essential items during the current unemployment and extreme inflation. Senate Sherry Rehman told reporters that the increase in price of electricity is a blow to the business industry which is already suffering losses due to Covid-19 restrictions and devastating rains. 

On the recent increase in prices of medicines, Ms Rehman said a 260 per cent hike in prices of 94 life-saving drugs had been witnessed. She alleged that the government had bowed down to the medicine, sugar and wheat mafias while there is no relief for people affected by Covid-19. (“PPP slams hike in power tariff, prices of essential goods,”Dawn, 26 Sepember 2020)

Steep increase in food prices 

The prices of ginger and tomato have increased to Rs 600 per kg and Rs150-160, a sharp increase by Rs 200 and Rs 60 per kg respectively. A wholesale seller said ginger prices swelled due to thin arrival of Chinese variety and importers are bringing in Thailand ginger to cover up demand and supply gap. 

Wheat and sugar prices - Flour millers in Sindh reduced the price of flour as Ukraine wheat imports continue to flourish and locally-produced wheat prices dropped to Rs 5,100 per 100 kg bag from Rs 5,200. Cereal Association of Pakistan Chairman Muzammil Chappal said that imported wheat averted a major jump in flour prices so far and ensured availability of wheat in the market.

The private sector had imported around 7,000 - 8,000 tonnes of sugar from Egypt and the UAE this week and 15,000 - 20,000 tonnes would arrive next week. Mr Chappal said that though the private sector signed agreements for duty-free import of 200,000 tonnes of sweetener, if the 17 percent GST is not removed, the import of sugar would not provide any relief; sugar is currently sold at Rs 95 per kg. (“Vegetable prices jump as shortages increase,Dawn, 26 September 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW

Calling for enduring peace in Afghanistan

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a telephonic conversation with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani urged warring Afghan factions to cooperate for lowering violence in Afghanistan to achieve enduring peace. The conversation took place ahead of the upcoming visit of chairman of the Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah to Islamabad, likely to begin on Monday. 

Kabul is demanding a ceasefire but Taliban do not agree with it and are linking the lowering of violence to progress in the peace process. However, there has been an increase in violence which can potentially cause setbacks for the ongoing intra-Afghan talks in Doha. Assuring full support to the Afghans, Mr Khan said that all Afghan stakeholders must seize this historic opportunity and work together to secure an inclusive and comprehensive political agreement through the Afghan-led and Afghan-owed process. (“PM stresses warring groups’ cooperation for peace in Afghanistan, Dawn, 26 September 2020)

ON INDIA

On India’s recent farm bills 

An opinion column inThe Nationtalks about the newly passed farm bills in India. The author begins by criticising the Indian media for diverting attention from the Bharat Bandh which commenced on September 25, by focussing on drugs in Bollywood and witch-hunt of actresses. He then goes on to explain how the three bills will facilitate crony capitalism in India. 

Indian farmers are protesting because of the fear that once the prevailing system of the Agriculture Produce Market Committees collapses, private operators/traders/commission agents will dictate prices of their produce. He says Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, both who have heavily invested in agro business are going to benefit from these bills, along with other MNCs. According to the author, the bills were a deliberate favour by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to these corporate tycoons who have been funding the BJP. 

He concludes by saying: the Indian parliament, dominated by RSS goons, has created an environment where the hardworking but poor farmer of India becomes an eternal slave of corporate India. (“Capitalism vs the Indian farmer,The Nation, 26 September 2020)

 

 


The Fallouts of the All Parties Conference:


Photo: Dawn



Dawn editorial says that the series of leaks and clarifications that have followed the Multi Party Conference has unleashed a storm that has been “igniting a rare public debate about the propriety of meetings between opposition and military leaders”. It says “What is significant here is that, despite the opposition members’ meetings, Mr Sharif launched a blistering attack on the establishment’s alleged role in politics and that the MPC reinforced his position by adopting a tough resolution.” “Why were the ‘disclosures’ made after the MPC? Do they indicate panic? Or are politicians like Sheikh Rashid out to malign the opposition?” it questions. The editorial says that “the series of leaks and political statements of late about such engagements are a strong indicator of the thorny political games and unscrupulous backdoor schemes in progress.” (“Leaks after MPC,” Dawn, 25 September 2020)

Need “clarity from all quarters”
It opines that Minister Rashid gave an impression that the establishment was deeply interested in Pakistan’s politics, a blow to the image of the security apparatus; and that the upcoming weeks would reveal the fate of the formal opposition alliance. The editorial further calls for “clarity from all quarters” and an explanation from the opposition regarding its contacting and meeting with the highest echelons of the security apparatus.

Previously… 
The disclosures come after former PM Nawaz’s explosive speech at the Opposition’s multiparty conference held on 20 September, during which he lashed out at the establishment and called the army “a state above the state in the country”. The conference’s 26-point declaration was also issued at the MPC. Later, on 23 September, the military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar revealed that former Sindh governor Mohammad Zubair had on two occasions reached out to Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss legal and political woes of ex-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz over the few previous weeks. Gen Iftikar said on the request of Mr Zubair, the latter met the army chief twice, “once in the last week of August and then on September 7 in the presence of director general ISI”. The director-general of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Mr Zubair spoke of Mr Nawaz Sharif and Ms Maryam Nawaz. According to Dawn, Major Gen Babar said the COAS during the meetings with PML-N leader and ex-governor Zubair “made it clear to him that their [Sharifs] legal issues would be addressed in court, while political matters were to be dealt with the parliament”. (“PML-N leader’s call on COAS kicks up storm,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

Meanwhile…
An article argues that the COAS-Maulana meeting Minister Rashid was referring to had taken place in November 2019 with another military superior and not the COAS. (“From Maulana’s ‘meeting’ to Nawaz’s frustration,” The News International, 25 September 2020) Rashid also said he was ready to divulge details regarding the meetings between the JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and the COAS if the Maulana denied the meeting. He also alleged that the Maulana wanted to intensify sectarian divides within Pakistan. (“Fazl held one-on-one meeting with Gen Bajwa: Sh Rasheed,” The News International, 25 September 2020)

Nawaz bars party members from meeting army in private
Former PM Nawaz Sharif on Thursday barred his party members from meeting military or agency officials in the future without prior permission. The PML-N Chief made the announcement on Twitter a day after Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar disclosed that PML-N member Mohammad Zubair had twice reached out to COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

A day after the Opposition’s multiparty conference, Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed revealed that major opposition figures, including PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif, its parliamentary leader in the National Assembly Khawaja Asif and secretary general Ahsan Iqbal, had recently met the army chief and ISI Director General Lt Gen Faiz Hameed.

Speaking to the television channels later, Mr Zubair confirmed his meeting with the COAS, claimed that he had gone to discuss economic issues but issues relating to Mr Sharif and his daughter Maryam also came up for discussion. PML-N Information Secretary Marriyum Aurangzeb said the party leadership was satisfied with Mr Zubair’s explanation. PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz told reporters that the party leaders met the army chief to discuss the Gilgit-Baltistan issue but also held that political decisions should be taken within parliament, not in the General HQ.” (“Nawaz bars party members from meeting army, agencies people,” Dawn, 25 September 2020 and “No more private meetings with military leaders: Nawaz,” The News International, 25 September 2020)

 
There have been multiple criticisms on the proposed single national curriculum by the PTI government (Image Source: Dawn)

The SNC debate continues: The idea of making English the medium of instruction is outlandish

Zubeida Mustafa’s article looks at the Single National Curriculum. In particular the unresolved aspect of the medium of instruction. She calls the idea of making English the medium of instruction from pre-school to Grade-5 an “outlandish” idea. Zubeida argues that English would distort Pakistan’s education. She says that while Pakistan is divided into two classes: the English-speaking elites and the non-English speaking non-elites, and the government speaks of an “education apartheid”, the SNC will only “promote inequity of the worst kind”.

Zubeida advocates teaching children in their mother tongue and in the national language Urdu. She further elucidates the benefits. She states “When they learn in a language they understand from a teacher who knows pedagogy children will start enjoying their lessons, gain confidence and above all start THINKING and communicating. They will show better understanding of what they are taught. Education will become a participatory exercise as it should be. Above all, students will not suffer from a sense of alienation and inferiority which is being fostered by English.” Zubeida says “We have already dumbed our children by robbing them of their own language and have also failed to teach them English. Is there more to lose?” (“Which language?,” Dawn, 25 September 2020)

 
Pakistan arranges a visit of the diplomats from 24 countries to the Line of Countrol. (Image Source: The News)

Pakistan takes diplomats from 24 countries to the LoC
Foreign diplomats visited the Jura sector on the Line of Control in “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” on Thursday. Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar briefed them about “repeated ceasefire violations by Indian troops.” According to Dawn, 2,333 violations by India have been recorded in which 18 civilians have been martyred and several others injured this year.

The visitors interacted with the "victims of the shelling, witnessed damage on civilian property and protection bunkers." Turkish ambassador Mustafa Yurdakul said the Kashmir dispute needed to be resolved according to UNSC resolutions, the will of Kashmiris, and through  Pakistan-India dialogue. EU envoy Androulla Kaminara said she was accompanying the group to “see and listen to the explanations” on the LoC situation. High Commissioner of South Africa Mthuthuzeli Madikiza hopes to see a solution soon. Iranian Deputy Head of Mission Mr Sorkhabi said his government fully supported the people of Kashmir.

Foreign Office spokesman Zahid Chaudhri in the weekly media briefing said, Islamabad-based ambassadors, diplomats and defence attaches were taken to the LoC to provide them first-hand knowledge of the ground situation. He also called on India to revoke the 1.85 domiciles granted to “non-Kashmiris” since June. (“Diplomats visit LoC, meet survivors of Indian shelling,” Dawn, 25 September 2020)
 

In-Brief
INTERNAL
FATF: Singling out Pakistan
An opinion column in The Nation highlights the selective approach of the FATF in the light of the recent FinCEN leaks. FinCEN is a branch of the US Treasury which receives “suspicious activity reports” (SARs) filed by banks as part of their oversight of transactions. Pakistani SARs amount around $2.5 million out of more than $2 trillion. On the other hand, Indian banking institutions flag $890 million potentially suspicious transactions involving almost all major Indian lenders ($400m outbound and $490m inbound). Further, the biggest money-launderers identified by far include JPMorgan Chase, HSBC, Standard Chartered, Deutsche Bank, and Bank of New York Mellon. The author asks why Pakistan is singled out for the FATF’s greylist every time.

The author, however, clarifies that Pakistan needs accountability and transparency but the FATF could attempt a different approach to do so. He also suggests that to address global money laundering, the solution will be to hold accountable those in major world capitals than the third world. (“While FATF sleeps,” The Nation,25 September 2020)

Verdict on Justice Isa soon
The Supreme Court on Thursday dropped hints that it would soon announce the detailed reasons behind the June 19 short order which quashed the presidential reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa over non-declaration of three offshore properties in the name of his wife and children.

Earlier, on Feb 13, the bench headed by Justice Umar Ata Bandial told Justice Isa’s lawyer Hamid Khan that the points raised in the appeal by former judge Siddiqui overlapped and were similar to the points being highlighted by Justice Isa. Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui was removed from the high judicial office on the recommendation of the Supreme Judicial Council under Article 209 of the Constitution for displaying conduct unbecoming of a judge for delivering a speech at the District Bar Association (DBA) in Rawalpindi on July 21, 2018.

Now, Justice Bandial has asked Mr Khan to convince the bench how to cross the hurdle of Article 211 of the Constitution that put a bar on challenging before any court the proceedings conducted by the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) and its report to the president and the removal of the judge under Article 209(6) of the Constitution. The other choice Justice Bandial offered was to wait for the detailed judgement which will be out soon. (“Detailed SC verdict in Justice Isa case soon,” Dawn,25 September 2020)

ON INDIA
On Kashmir and regional peace
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Thursday said sustainable peace in the region would remain a dream until the core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir is resolved as per the UNSC Resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiri people. In his virtual address to the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-building Measures in Asia (CICA), he said: “India’s illegal and unilateral actions of last August have destroyed life in Indian-held Kashmir.” He called for removing “artificial obstacles” in the way of the regular functioning of the SAARC and reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to host the regional bloc’s summit.
Pakistan was to host the 19th summit of SAARC in November 2016, but India, supported by Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan, forced its postponement by pulling out of the meeting citing “increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in the region and growing interference in internal affairs of member states by one country. “ (“Regional peace linked to Kashmir solution: FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi,” The News International, 25 September 2020 and “Pakistan calls for removal of ‘artificial hurdles’ in Saarc’s way,” Dawn,25 September 2020)

India is losing the batter in Kashmir, says Dawn
An editorial in the Dawn criticises India’s move to unilaterally change Kashmir’s special status and focuses on the BJP’s tactics to change Kashmir’s demography. The editorial has been written after former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah’s interview post his release from house arrest.
The editorial criticises New Delhi’s new domicile law “that enables Hindus to settle and buy property in India held Kashmir.” it says that India is trying to “take control of their land by changing its demography and diluting its Muslim and Kashmiri identity.” By doing so, “India has alienated every Kashmiri including its puppets like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti.” This move will convert “IHK into a Hindu-majority area and deprive Kashmiris of the political and administrative strength that comes with being a majority in their own land. “

The editorial urges Indian PM Narendra Modi “to return to the path of sanity” and demands restoration of Kashmir's special status. It says the solution to the Kashmir dispute lies in the implementation of the UN resolutions. (“India’s losing battle,” Dawn, 25 September 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
International order post-COVID-19 and Pakistan
An opinion column in The News International looks at the possible shifts in the world order post-COVID-19 and Pakistan’s way forward. The author points out at the crumbling liberal international world order centred around the US’ military power and the shift to China, a smart power. He refers to American Secretary of Defense Mark T Esper accusing China and Russia of “expanding and modernizing their armed forces, and extending their capabilities into space and cyber domains, in order to exert greater pressure against other countries.”

Countries like Pakistan would soon be faced with “bandwagoning” and Pakistan has already chosen China. This may lead to deterioration of Pak-US ties. This is a result of strengthening Indo-US ties as a part of Washington’s pivot to Asia to contain China.

Another aspect of the post-COVID world order is the emerging salience of health issues in public discourse. Currently, Pakistan has been spending less than two per cent of its GDP on public health. Thus, the ongoing cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing in the health sector must be continued and expanded beyond Covid-19 and Pakistan should also focus on remaining a security state. (“Pakistan and the post-COVID world,” The News International,25 September 2020)

 


"Mr Zubair twice met the army chief, once in the last week of August and then on September 7 in the presence of director-general ISI...In those meetings, he (Mr Zubair) talked about Mr Nawaz Sharif and Ms Maryam Nawaz.”

-  DG-ISPR on PML-N leader's meeting with the Army Chief

 

 


Establishment and the PML-N:


Photo: Dawn



On 23 September, during a TV talk show, the military spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar revealed that former Sindh governor Mohammad Zubair had on two occasions reached out to Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss legal and political woes of ex-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz over the few previous weeks. Gen Iftikar said, “Mr Zubair twice met the army chief, once in the last week of August and then on September 7 in the presence of director-general ISI”. He emphasized that both meetings were held on the request of Mr Zubair. The director-general of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said: “In those meetings, he (Mr Zubair) talked about Mr Nawaz Sharif and Ms Maryam Nawaz”. According to Dawn, Major Gen Babar said the COAS during the meetings with PML-N leader and ex-governor Zubair “made it clear to him that their [Sharifs] legal issues would be addressed in court, while political matters were to be dealt with the parliament”. (“PML-N leader’s call on COAS kicks up storm,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

Statements and Surprises
The former governor Mohammed Zubair provided his clarification on Twitter. He tweeted, “Gen Qamar Bajwa is an old friend and not only that I have met him many times as a friend but our families have also been meeting cordially over dinners etc. In my most recent meeting with him economy, politics and, of course, Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz, all came under discussion. No relief was ever requested”. Speaking to a TV channel, Mr Zubair said “Such meetings are secret. I don’t understand as to why the army spokesperson needs to talk on [my meeting with the army chief] it,” expressing his surprise over the DG ISPR’s statement. 

Immediate context
The revelations came soon after the main opposition party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s senior vice-president and former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that no PML-N member had had a one-on-one meeting with the COAS in the recent past. Abbasi was attending a news conference in Lahore. The disclosures come after former PM Nawaz’s explosive speech at the Opposition’s multiparty conference held on 20 September. Nawaz lashed out at the establishment, calling the Pakistan army “a state above the state in the country”. The conference’s 26-point declaration had called to curb the “establishment’s interference in politics” and to ensure “no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies” in future elections. Soon after the MPC, on 21 September, federal Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed had revealed that Opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif, PML-N’s parliamentary leader in National Assembly Khawaja Asif and PML-N secretary general Ahsan Iqbal had met with the COAS Gen Bajwa and the DG ISI recently. 

A blow to PMLN’s anti-establishment image
The revelation has shaken the PML-N’s anti-establishment image. The recent development accounts to publicization of the secret contacts of the opposition leaders with the military leadership/establishment for the second time this week. Are the military’s revelations an attempt to erode the credibility of the opposition (PML-N) that is trying to topple the establishment-backed incumbent PTI government?

An analysis says the Army’s intent is clear
Dawn's “Red Zone Files”, by Fahd Hussain, says the revelations made on the television “signals clear intent”. The article asks “How could top leaders of the party be willingly meeting the COAS and agreeing on a key strategic issue pertaining to Gilgit-Baltistan only to have their party chief blast the establishment a few days later?” Hussain says the recent revelations have complicated timelines and PML-N’s standing. He says the meetings taking place without the top party leadership’s knowledge, is improbable and opines that PML-N will have to give explanations to address the contradictions. Saying that the convening of these meetings, particularly in the absence of the Prime Minister Imran Khan, are significant, Hussain provides key take-aways: first, the issue of the status of Gilglt-Baltistan requires all political parties to be taken on board; second, the lack of a working relationship between PM Khan and the opposition has led to the need for military’s direct involvement; and third, the FATF-related bills and their passage have set a wrong precedent. The article also draws takeaways from ex-PM Nawaz’s speech: Nawaz’s return to Pakistan will not happen soon and the inability of PML-N to “win any political space or reciprocity”. The latter forced Nawaz to deliver the sizzler. (“RED ZONE FILES: Noisy quiet meetings,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

 
There have been multiple criticisms on the proposed single national curriculum by the PTI government (Image Source: Dawn)

 

The SNC debate continues: Medium of Instruction

In an opinion column in The News International, the author talks about the shift in the Single National Curriculum debate: the language of instruction. She explains the challenges of having English as the medium of instruction as research shows learning happens best in the mother tongue during the formative years. Also, though many schools teach in local languages, the exams are conducted in English putting the students at a disadvantage. 

However, switching to Urdu is not the solution as teachers are not equipped to teach in Urdu. While the urban population is more familiar with Urdu, the language is nearly as alien as English to the rural communities. The author says that while private schools can continue to teach in English, public schools can teach in local or national languages and switch to English in higher classes to compete with private schools. 

The author points out another problem: educational policies are hardly data-driven and exclude the most important stakeholders – parents and students. Despite criticism about the opaqueness at the developmental level, the government has not budged. The ideal solution would be a research-based consensus on best principles and practices empowering the provinces to identify what language(s) they should adopt. (“A question of language,” The News International, 24 September 2020)

 
The All Parties Conference in Islamabad on Sunday. (Image Source: Dawn)

In-Brief
INTERNAL
Maulana Fazlur Rehman proposed by JUI-F to lead Pakistan Democratic Movement
A proposal was put forth by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) to make Maulana Fazlur Rehman as the leader of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) in the meeting of Rehbar Committee on 23 September. The Rehbar Committee meeting was held in the residence of Akram Khan when the proposal was put forward. However, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Secretary General Syed Nayyer Hussain did not agree to this and suggested that the authority to consider this matter should be left to the leader of the opposition. Mr Bukhari proposed a PDA council on the lines of Movement of Restoration of Democracy (MRD) that comprised the leaders of PDA and the head to be elected on rotation basis. (Asim Yasin, “JUI-F proposes Maulana Fazlur Rehman as PDM head,” The News International, 24 September 2020)

GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Elections in Gilgit-Baltistan to be held on 15 November
Pakistan’s President Dr Arif Alvi on 23 September announced through a notification that elections for the Legislative Assembly of the Gilgit-Baltistan region would be held on 15 November. The elections were earlier scheduled to be held on 18 August but were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Previously, the five-year term of the previous Legislative Assembly of Gilgit-Baltistan was held by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) which had ended on 24 June. The new announcement comes amidst reports of an agreement between the government and the opposition to hold consultations on the proposal of granting “provisional provincial status” to Gilgit-Baltistan after the elections. (“Elections in GB slated for Nov 15,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Pakistan records current account surplus in July-August
Pakistan recorded on 23 September a current account surplus of $805 million in the first two months of the current fiscal year compared with a deficit of $1.2 billion in the same period last year. The surplus was equivalent to 1.8 per cent of GDP. Analysts stated the reason for increased remittances from Pakistanis working abroad and falling import payments leading to current account surplus. They opine that flexible exchange rates have also contributed to the surge for the same. However, the exports of gods declined 16.3 per cent to $3.4 billion and imports dropped 12.6 per cent to $6.7 billion in July-August FY 2020. (Erum Zaidi, “Pakistan posts current account surplus of $806mln in July-August,” The News International, 24 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Russia values ties with Pakistan: Russian Ambassador Ganich
Russian Ambassador Danila V Ganich said that Pakistan is a significant partner for Russia due to its influence in the Muslim world, role in regional politics and geostrategic location. Mr Ganich said that Russia was eager to invest $1.7 billion in the Karachi-Lahore gas pipeline which he believes would be a crucial project for the development of the region as a whole. The Ambassador remarked that Russia and Pakistan do not want an arms race in the region or outer space and stated that the present Afghan government does not represent the real aspirations of the Afghan people. He made these remarks while addressing a seminar at the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS) on 22 September. (Muhammad Anis, “Russia values ties with Pakistan: Russian envoy says his country eager to invest $1.7 bn in gas sector,” The News International, 24 September 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
The Afghan Peace and Pakistan 
An opinion column in The News Internationalexplains that 19 years after 9/11, there are no winners in the US’ war against terror in Afghanistan. The author points out that while the US was bent on disrupting, dismantling and defeating the Taliban, they have come to the negotiation table with the Afghan Taliban. Similarly, the Taliban have given a written assurance to the US that they will not keep any relations with Al-Qaeda. But peace in Afghanistan is a distant dream. 

Some in the Afghan government, who earlier tried to delay peace negotiations, do not want reconciliation with the Taliban fearing that the Taliban will replace them in the new setup. The Taliban think that the Ashraf Ghani government is getting weaker and they can soon capture Kabul to establish their rule. In the light of this, Pakistan needs to push for a political solution to the TTP which is almost like an ideological franchise of the Afghan Taliban. Their attacks in different parts of Pakistan, especially in Waziristan, are on the rise. If needed, Pakistan should seek cooperation from the Afghan government and the Afghan Taliban on the issue while continuing to support the Afghan reconciliation process. (“Nineteen years of 9/11,”The News International, 24 September 2020)

Another border crossing opened for trade with Afghanistan
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved notification of Kharlachi as another border crossing for trade with Afghanistan for trade, removed duties on selected textiles and waived Rs 13 billion guarantee fee on Chinese loans for nuclear power plants. The Kharlachi border crossing point was earlier opened to ease the congested transit trucks along the border with Afghanistan due to COVID-19 restrictions. It is a relatable border point for export of goods to Kabul. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ECC opens up another border crossing for trade with Afghanistan,” Dawn, 24 September 2020)

 


"Mr Zubair twice met the army chief, once in the last week of August and then on September 7 in the presence of director-general ISI...In those meetings, he (Mr Zubair) talked about Mr Nawaz Sharif and Ms Maryam Nawaz.”

-  DG-ISPR on PML-N leader's meeting with the Army Chief

 

 


For the US, the priority in Pakistan is to advance human rights :


Photo: Dawn



The daily's top story by Wajid Ali Syed is on the recent statement by the US' nominated Ambassador to Islamabad William Todd, wherein he opines that the US relations with India should not be built at the expense of Pakistan. He also offered to facilitate an India-Pak dialogue to bring down regional tensions and urged Washington to have a strong relationship with both India and Pakistan. 

Quotable
On 22 September, while addressing the Senate confirmation, Todd said "Our hope is that both countries will take the necessary steps to reduce tensions, and as President Trump has offered, we are prepared to facilitate dialogue if both sides request it". He also called for irreversible and sustained action from Pakistan against terrorism to reduce regional tensions and rebuild strong ties with the US. However, he acknowledged Pakistan's losses at the hands of terrorists and the country's counter-terrorism commitment. "Pakistan has taken important steps toward fulfilling that commitment but needs to continue that work," he added. Todd vowed to engage Pakistan on issues such as those of "strategic stability and non-proliferation, carrying a clear message on the threat that nuclear weapons pose to the United States, the region, and our allies and partners. Pakistan needs to demonstrate it is prepared to live up to international commitments on weapons of mass destruction." 

Speaking of the Afghan peace process, he said "Pakistan is an essential regional partner, and this is an opportune moment in our (US-Pak) relationship to work together on shared goals. Peace in Afghanistan is in both our countries' best interests, and effective US-Pakistani cooperation is essential to achieve that objective."

The Ambassador's goals for Pakistan
Ambassador Todd informed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee regarding his priorities, including that of ensuring Islamabad puts pressure on militant groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and ensuring the US Pakistan health partnership functions effectively. 

Ambassador William Todd said "My first goal will be advancing human rights, particularly freedom of religion and expression. I am also concerned about increasing restrictions on civil society, including the growing harassment and disappearances of journalists without accountability, which undermines the exercise of the right of peaceful assembly and freedoms of expression and association," he said. He further said that the US needs increased bilateral trade and investment with Pakistan. "Making progress on youth engagement, trade and investment, and human rights will be challenging, but necessary for a better future for Pakistan, and a stronger US-Pakistan relationship".

("US envoy lists priorities for Pakistan: First goal to advance civil rights, freedoms," The News International, 23 September 2020)

 
There have been multiple criticisms on the proposed single national curriculum by the PTI government (Image Source: Dawn)

 

Single National Curriculum will only promote "majoritarian religious nationalism" as has been stated by others," says an Opinion
Foqia Sadiq Khan's opinion in The News International requests the education minister to "stop the SNC (Single National Curriculum) in its tracks, cut the losses, and focus on other aspects of the educational agenda of the PTI that will lead to better results". The four priority areas identified by the PTI government in its education framework are: the need to improve quality; decrease Out of School Children (OOSC); enhance skills training, and bring about uniformity in education. She was responding to the minister's 8 September statement wherein he says "we will continue to request for more comments and suggestions since that would help us refine our attempt at a single national curriculum."

Foqia lists certain issues with the SNC: first, SNC would not lead to uniform education across Pakistan; second, SNC will promote "majoritarian religious nationalism"; and third, it does not consider ground realities of Pakistan's education system and sector. Moreover, prominent educationists of Pakistan such as Dr Tariq Rehman, Dr Pervez Hoodbhoy, Dr A H Nayyar, Dr Faisal Bari, Dr Rubina Saigol, Dr Ayesha Razzaque, Dr Baela Jamil, Neelum Hussain, Dr Anjum Altaf and others seem to disapprove of the SNC. Hence, Foqia argues that the SNC may have been approved by education managers and not education experts. 

Foqia says the SNC "will only achieve the religious indoctrination of future generations without meaningfully contributing to establishing a uniform system of education." A grave danger to the future of Pakistan. ("SNC: broaden the horizon," The News International, 23 September 2020)

 
Gwadar. (Image Source: Dawn)

ON CPEC
All praise for the Joint Consultation Mechanism JCM and China
An opinion column in The Nation praises the CPEC Political Parties Joint Consultation Mechanism (JCM). The author says that the JCM brought together nine Pakistani political parties and has conveyed to the world that the faith of provincial political forces and mainstream political parties on CPEC is unfluctuating. He praises the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI) which materialised the JCM.

The author focuses on the JCM conference held on 20 August 2020 on the theme "Working Together to Promote Economic Development and Improve People's Lives Through High-Quality CPEC Cooperation." It was co-chaired by Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani from the Pakistani side and Minister of the International Department of CPC Song Tao from the Chinese side. China congratulated the successful organisation of the second JCM and announced the donation of 500,000 masked and 2000 PPE kits to Pakistani political parties. 

On the other hand, Pakistani leaders showered praises on China for successfully combating the Covid-19 pandemic, thanked China's support to Pakistan in handling the pandemic, and highlighted the importance of the CPEC in changing the destiny of the region and promoting regional connectivity. ("JCM: Political Consensus on CPEC,The Nation, 23 September 2020) 
 


In-Brief
INTERNAL
Soldier killed in an attack by terrorists in Bajaur
A soldier was killed when terrorists attacked a security post located in Bajaur on 21 September. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Sepoy Sabir Shah, 24, was killed in the attack and his mortal remains were sent to his native area in Kohat district. Pakistan claims that it has consistently raised the issue of border management with Afghanistan to avoid the use of the latter's territory against its forces. Bajaur has witnessed numerous attacks including the one that took place on 29 July, which led to the death of a soldier. (Anwarullah Khan, "Soldier martyred in attack from Afghanistan side," Dawn, 23 September 2020)

Nawaz Sharif's lawyer quits after IHC rejects plea
The lead counsel for Nawaz Sharif has given up representing his client after the Islamabad High Court rejected his application for deferring the issuance of the former Prime Minister's proclamation, the court was informed on 22 September. Khwaja Haris Ahmed, the defence counsel, disassociated himself from the case with an assumption that he had lost the right of audience. The IHC had dismissed Nawaz Sharif's application on 15 September but observed that the matter related to the former Prime Minister's audience would be examined at the right stage. (Malik Asad, "Nawaz's lawyer quits after plea rejection by IHC," Dawn, 23 September 2020)

On pitfalls after the Multiparty Conference
An article written by Zahid Hussain presents a critical picture of the Multiparty Conference (MPC) and the importance of Nawaz Sharif as a part of it. Mr Hussain states that former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has retained his anti-establishment stance after his 'no-holds-barred' address from London to the MPC on 20 September. The author mentions that there were several MPCs held in a span of two years, but the latest sitting was more structured under the banner of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). However, he doubts the ability of the PDM to mobilise the masses despite the fact that the Imran Khan-led PTI government is politically weak due to its failure on every front. Mr Hussain points out that governments have resigned due to street agitations, but the ones backed by the security establishment were tougher. He states that there is a need for civilian supremacy and questions how it will be achieved. (Zahid Hussain, "Pitfalls after the MPC," Dawn, 23 September 2020)

FATF-specific bill shelved earlier, passed in a different form
The Parliament passed an anti-terror financing bill, that was shelved during the government-opposition negotiations in August, in a different form but without changing its text. The earlier bill, sponsored by the Government, sought an amendment in the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The new bill is sponsored by Faheem Khan, a private member belonging to the PTI. Another difference is the same text was incorporated in the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997, instead of the CrPC. PML-N leader Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha said the bill had exactly the same content and wording previously included in the amendment to the CrPC. He said that the Opposition representatives' main objection to the CrPC bill was that keeping an accused in custody for 120 days was extremely harsh and the power could be misused. ("FATF-specific bill shelved earlier, passed in different form,The News International, 23 September 2020)

"I can quit Government but won't give NRO": Prime Minister Imran Khan
Prime Minister Imran Khan made it clear on 22 September that he would step down from the Government but not give away NRO to corrupt politicians. He made the statement while chairing a federal meeting which reviewed key national issues and decisions on matters including discussion and presentation on the Anti-Rape Investigation and Prosecution Bill. Advisors Babar Awan and Shahzad Akbar briefed the cabinet on how to control the problem of rape and ensure of protection of women and children. The Prime Minister directed the bill to be brought before the Cabinet Committee on Legislation. ("I can quit govt but won't give NRO: PM Imran Khan," The News International, 23 September 2020)

"Is Pakistan's military spending just right?" asks an Op-ed
An op-ed written by Nasir Khan puts forth the question whether the Pakistan military is spending right. He first highlights the security challenges both internally and externally which also includes rescue and relief operations during floods and earthquakes. The author talks about the influence and skills of the Pakistan Army in foreign and domestic policies. Mr Khan cites statistics that Pakistan's defence budget is 3% of its total GDP and states that it is expensive to maintain the military as war can be pricier than maintaining the defence of the state. He goes onto bring in the conservative narrative that sustaining an appropriately sized, well trained and equipped force is capable of deterring and dissuading threats. In conclusion, the author states that the Pakistan military has a relatively lower spending compared to other states in South Asia. (Nasir Khan, "Is Pakistan's military spending just right?," Daily Times, 23 September 2020)

Rehbar Committee meets today on the All Parties Conference
The Opposition's Rehbar Committee will meet today to reach a consensus on the All Parties Conference (APC) agenda. Sources within the Committee told The Nation that the three major opposition parties, the PPP, PML-N, and JUI-F had reservations over each other's agendas proposed in the recent APC. The JUI-F was very aggressive in its stance and wanted to get rid of the PTI-led Government without further delay. However, the PPP and PML-N wanted to give a tough time to the Government within the parliament house. 

The JUI-F along with other small opposition parties had already shown doubts over the attitude of the PPP and PML-N and threatened to break the joint alliance if both the parties failed to follow the Rehbar Committee's decision. The PPP maintains that they will not be part of any undemocratic move and will try to maintain an environment of trust and confidence among the Opposition. ("Rehbar Committee meets today to reach consensus on APC agenda," The Nation, 23 September 2020)

ECONOMY 
No payments till payments of dues: IPPs 
Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have refused to sign final agreements unless and until the Government clears their dues which amount to Rs 300-400 billion. IPPs had previously signed MoUs with the Government to mutually alter the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).

According to a senior official, dues of powerhouses, including state-owned and private plants, have swelled by over Rs 650 billion out of which IPPs need to be paid up to Rs 400 billion. Though they prefer the dues be cleared in one go, IPPs may agree on payment of 90 per cent of their total dues. 

The official also mentioned that there are some thermal power plants, including private hydropower projects (HPPs), which have not yet signed MoUs. There are three operational HPPs with the capacity of generating 350MW. ("No MoUs till payment of dues, IPPs tell govt,The News International, 23 September 2020)

ON COVID-19
Phase 3 trial for Chinese-developed Covid-19 vaccine begins
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) announced the launch of Phase 3 clinical trials for the Chinese-developed Covid-19 vaccine in Pakistan on Tuesday. The vaccine has been developed by China's CanSino Biologics. Of the 40,000 people participating in the trial from seven countries, 8,000-10,000 will be from Pakistan. 

The vaccine would be available in the market in five to six months once its results are approved, National Institute of Health (NIH) Executive Director Maj Gen Aamer Ikram said in a press conference the same day. Meanwhile, the Government's database on coronavirus shows that another 290 people have recovered in Pakistan, taking the country's total recoveries to 293,159 and 570 patients are in critical condition at the moment. ("Phase-3 clinical trial for Chinese-developed Covid-19 vaccine begins in Pakistan,The Nation, 23 September 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Ruth Bader Ginsburg's demise and the way forward
An opinion in the Dawn focuses on US politics and the Supreme Court in the light of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's demise. The author highlights the hypocrisy of Senators who are now keen to replace Ginsburg when the election is less than six weeks away. They had previously thwarted Barack Obama's constitutional right to fill a supreme court vacancy nine months out from a presidential election. 

The implication of having a conservative judge would turn the hitherto 5-4 conservative advantage into a 6-3 supremacy paving the way for a right-wing majority in the American judiciary for years to come. This is critical because, in the US, the Supreme Court's standing in the political hierarchy makes it an ultimate arbiter of right and wrong. The author justifies this by predicting a likelihood of the 1973 Roe vs Wade judgement, which gave American women the right to choose whether to have an abortion, being overturned.

The author then talks about some of Ginsburg's most crucial cases related to gender discrimination and further goes on to trace some of the crucial moments of the Supreme Court dating back to the Lincoln administration. ("Supremely Ruth-less,Dawn, 23 September 2020)

Kashmir and Palestine disputes are UN's most glaring and long-standing failures, says Pakistan's Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told the 75th United Nations General Assembly on 21 September that the world considers the UN as a talk shop which cannot implement resolutions. He said, "The Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine disputes are the Organisation's most glaring and long-standing failures." He added that "the UN was hope born of the ashes of unmitigated suffering of war and misplaced notions of the superiority of some over the others." Islamabad argues that the revocation of special status from Jammu and Kashmir by India violates the United Nations Security Council resolutions that grant the right of self-determination to the people of Kashmir. (Anwar Iqbal, "Qureshi says world sees UN as a 'talk shop'," Dawn, 23 September 2020)

 


"Pakistan has taken important steps toward fulfilling that commitment but needs to continue that work...Pakistan needs to demonstrate it is prepared to live up to international commitments on weapons of mass destruction"

-  US Ambassador designate for Pakistan

 

 


One day after the All Parties Conference:


Photo: Dawn



On 21 September, government ministers and opposition leaders disclosed that prior to the multiparty conference, Army Chief Gen Qamar Bajwa and head of the Inter-Services Intelligence Lt Gen Faiz Hameed had counselled key opposition figures to refrain from dragging the Pakistan military into political issues. The warning was given during a meeting on 16 September. According to Dawn, about 15 opposition leaders including Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Shahbaz Sharif, Jamaat-i-Islami emir Sirajul Haq, JUI-F's Asad Mahmood, ANP's Amir Haider Hoti, Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, PPP's Senator Sherry Rehman, PML-N leaders Khawaja Asif and Ahsan Iqbal and few other government ministers attended the particular meeting. Apparently, the meeting was not to be publicly disclosed. ("Opposition leaders told not to drag military into politics," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid, one of the attendees of the 16 September meeting, told Dawn that it aimed at discussing the impending changes in the constitutional status of Gilgit-Baltistan. But, since the Opposition raised concerns regarding the military's alleged interference in politics and persecution allegations of its leaders in the shadow of "accountability", such a counsel was made by the military leadership. 

The 26-point declaration
Critics link the military's counsel to the former prime minister Mian Nawaz Sharif's recent bitter criticism of the army, calling it "a state above the state in the country". The sharp comments were made during the Opposition's recent multiparty conference on 20 September. Before announcing the "action plan" to oust the incumbent government, the JUI-F chief read out a 26-point declaration which was issued. These points include the following: ("Opposition parties form alliance to oust govt," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

  • end of establishment's interference in politics
  • new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies
  • release of political prisoners
  • withdrawal of cases against the journalists
  • implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism
  • speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
  • across the board accountability under a new accountability law

Wide coverage by the media
Dawn Editorial calls the MPC a "unique event". It says "Christened the 'Pakistan Democratic Movement', the alliance unequivocally hit out at what it said was the unrelenting interference of the establishment and intelligence agencies in political affairs. It added "The unanimously adopted resolution also took the same position and called for the establishment to adopt a neutral and apolitical role." The Editorial accuses political parties of accepting and encouraging the involvement of the military establishment for vested political interests such as ousting political rivals. ("MPC resolution," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

Another Dawn article by Arifa Noor says "Sharif's speech was aggressive. But it would be a disservice to him to view it as a declaration of battle." She argues that "the qualitative difference in the establishment's strategy this time around will also keep the political parties from taking too aggressive a line". Arifa asks "What would it have cost the political parties to introspect a little? To ask themselves why it took two terms to take us so far away from 2007 when the military was anxious to hand over power and return to the barracks? Did they spend any time pondering over why the people accept the 'theft' of their vote and are not willing to come out on the streets in anger (remember Khawaja Asif's remarks about eating karelay gosht)?" ("Revolution is not a lunch party," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

An editorial by The News International opines that the All-Party Conference and the Pakistan Democratic Movement mean different things to the optimists and the cynics: "To the cynic – this opposition effort like ones before it will also fade away or be abandoned to politics of expediency or desperation. To the optimist – or supporters of the opposition parties – this APC is a step away from the kind of caving in they have been seeing from the opposition benches in parliament over the past two years." ("The opposition's PDM," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

Meanwhile, Nawaz's Speech termed "anti-Pakistan"
The incumbent government of Pakistan has termed the speech of former premier Nawaz Sharif at the Opposition's multiparty conference (PMC) "anti-Pakistan". It added that Prime Minister Imran Khan was leading Pakistan and that the army was assisting him in imperative national affairs. Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar said, "Nawaz Sharif promoted the agenda of anti-Pakistan forces as Indian media gave top slot to Nawaz's remarks with headlines' Nawaz has declared a war against Pakistan Army'". During a joint press conference after the MPC, responding to the opposition leaders' speeches and their decision to launch a three-phased anti-government movement, senior federal ministers Asad Umar, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Fawad Chaudhry and Shibli Faraz said the Opposition, particularly the PML-N, had pleased "anti-Pakistan forces" by hurling allegations at national institutions such as the Pakistan army, National Accountability Bureau and the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Meeting between the Army Chief, ISI Chief and the Opposition Leader
The News International's top story speaks of the meeting of the military leadership represented by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and Director General Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Faiz Hameed with key parliamentarians, representing the government and the Opposition, during which the military leaders adviced the latter group to not drag the Pakistan army into political rivalries. The article by Ansar Abbasi says the military leaders "advised them that the army should not be dragged into political rivalries, as it was not involved, directly or indirectly, in any political process." Parliamentary leaders such as PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Khawaja Asif, Sherry Rehman, Ahsan Iqbal, Maulana Asad Mehmood, Khalid Maqbool, Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser, Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani, AJK Prime Minister Farooq Haider, Dr Jamal Deeni, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Sheikh Rashid and others were in attendance.

According to the article, the goal behind conducting the meeting was to "develop political consensus on making Gilgit-Baltistan a province, but other national issues like the Gilgit-Baltistan elections and National Accountability Bureau (NAB) also came under discussion."

Statement by the Military leadership
According to a news report, Gen Bajwa said the Pak Army was "not interfering in electoral reforms or current legislation or problems related to the NAB, as it was the responsibility of the political leadership to work out such matters." Speaking to a private TV channel separately, Sheikh Rasheed said General Bajwa said the military would not allow anybody to create anarchy in the country. ("Creation of anarchy won't be allowed: Don't drag Army in politics," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

 
Pakistan's persisting polio problem (Image Source: Dawn)

 

Health workers attacked in Kohlu, one killed in Mirali, while five recovered in Balochistan

A lady health worker was shot dead by unidentified attackers in Mirali sub-division of North Waziristan tribal district on 21 September. Naheed Gul, 25, was posted as a nutritionist at the Basic Health Unit of Nathasi in the Khushali Toorikhel area of Mirali. The incident took place when she was returning home after performing her duty. (Pazir Gul, "Lady health worker shot dead in Mirali," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

In a separate incident, the Levies Force personnel recovered five polio workers hours after they were kidnapped from the Kohlu area in Quetta on the same day. Security officials said Sher Ali, Abdul Khaliq, Qurban Ali, Karam Khan and Humayun Khan were kidnapped by armed men when they were administering polio vaccine drops to children. ("Five kidnapped polio workers recovered," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

 
The Hindu community in Islamabad is keen to build a temple in Islamabad. In July, the construction of a boundary wall towards the same was stopped. (Image Source: Dawn)

 

The Hindus in Islamabad: In search of a temple
An editorial in the Dawn urges to address the objections raised by various parties with regard to the construction of a Hindu temple in Islamabad. Members of the Pakistan Hindu Council have emphasised that a temple and a crematorium are essential requirements which should not be politicised. Most of the 3000 Hindu families in Islamabad were forced to escape the deteriorating law-and-order situation in KP, Sindh and Balochistan; they are not just looking for a place to pray but also to hold ceremonies.

After the PM approved Rs 100 million for the construction of the temple, political parties like the PML-Q and JUI-F joined religious groups to oppose the decision. They held that the tax paid by Muslims could not be spent on a mandir and an Islamic country could not allow the building of a new temple on its territory.
Lal Chand Malhi, a PTI lawmaker who has been trying to highlight the apolitical nature of the move addressed the above objections. He said money from the taxes paid by Pakistani Hindus could be spent on building the mandir and Muslim countries such as the UAE have allowed new temples to be constructed. (“In search of a temple,” Dawn, 22 September 2020)

In-Brief
INTERNAL
PM, COAS discuss security situations
Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met to discuss Pakistan's security issues on Monday. The meeting, attended by federal cabinet members, was held hours after the PM lashed out at the Opposition's criticism of the army and the government during the multiparty conference on Sunday. He said the Opposition's criticism was an effort to appease India and that it was "pointless and an attempt to divert attention from their corruption." 

The PM has asked his ministers and party members to respond to the criticism with reason and logic and said that "in a democracy, all institutions work under the government." ("PM Imran Khan, General Qamar Javed Bajwa discuss country's security situation,The News International, 22 September 2020)

Textile exports fall 
As per the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data released on Monday, textile and clothing exports have fallen by 15 per cent year-on-year to $1.007 billion in August, compared to $1.19bn in August 2019. In February, these exports had jumped nearly 17 per cent on a yearly basis. The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in a collapse in demand for the country's exports. The import of textile machinery dropped by 30.27 per cent during the second month of FY1. 

Oil and related trade 
While petroleum and LNG imports declined by 24.27 per cent and 51.01 per cent in value respectively in August, crude oil and LPG imports rose 9.49 per cent and 13.19 per cent. Power generating machinery imports were up by 15.23 per cent in the same month. 

Telecommunication imports surged by 61 per cent led by mobile handsets higher by 85.84 per cent. This was the result of a crackdown on smuggling and doing away with free imports in baggage schemes.

The overall transport group also witnessed a contraction of 38.35 per cent. The overall food group import jumped by 10.95 per cent during August as the government imported wheat and sugar to bridge the local shortages. ("Textile exports fall 15pc in August,Dawn, 22 September 2020)

ON CHINA
Pakistanis looking forward to Xi Jinping's visit: Prime Minister to Chinese envoy
Prime Minister Imran Khan Imran Khan mentioned that the people of Pakistan were looking forward to welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping, during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador on 21 September. He praised the Chinese leadership for bringing about a socio-economic transformation, saying that there was a lot to learn from China's efforts to eradicate poverty. He also lauded the efforts of Ambassador Yao Jing to strengthen the Pakistan-China "All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership" and added that the Ambassador's tenure saw the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) entering the second phase. ("Pakistanis looking forward to Xi's visit, PM tells Chinese envoy," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

ON INDIA
India threatening military aggression: Pakistan tells OIC 
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) Contact Group and said that India has threatened military action against Pakistan. Mr Qureshi's message was read out by Pakistan's Ambassador Munir Akram which spoke about demographic changes and other actions and stated that India must reverse its actions. The OIC Contact Group met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on 20 September 2020. Saudi Arabia, Niger and Azerbaijan attended the meeting. (Anwar Iqbal, "India threatening military aggression, Pakistan tells OIC group," Dawn, 22 September 2020)

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Ties with Israel
In an opinion article in The Nation, the author outlines possible reasons for forming the Israel-UAE/Bahrain' historic peace deal,' and the implications thereafter. The three countries are pursuing their own economic and military interests keeping in mind that they are vulnerable without the US' aid. The deal is a violation of not just UN resolutions but also the 2002 Arab Peace Accord which calls for a sovereign Palestinian state. Without resolving the issue of Palestine, it is delusional to believe that these states could bring peace and stability; it would only lead to more bloodshed.

The author says that for President Trump, this is a strategy to win votes of the evangelists and white supremacists and also expand an arms market and for Israeli PM Netanyahu, tightening the rope around Palestine could divert domestic attention from the corruption allegations against him. The author reminds that leaders could go to any extent to achieve political ends, be it in Palestine or Kashmir. He praises PM Imran Khan's decision to not recognise Israel unless a Palestinian state is formed. PM Khan says that if the international community does not support Palestine, how can they expect support for Kashmir? ("Ties with Israel," The Nation, 22 September 2020)

 


""Once perhaps former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gillani said there was a State within the State in the country which could not be tolerated. It is saddening that the situation has escalated to the level where we now have a State above the State. This parallel government illness is the root-cause of our problems."

-  Nawaz Sharif, addressing the All Parties Conference called by the Opposition in Islamabad on Sunday

 

 


Nawaz Sharif goes on an offensive and talks about


Photo: Dawn



"Once perhaps former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gillani said there was a State within the State in the country which could not be tolerated. It is saddening that the situation has escalated to the level where we now have a State above the State. This parallel government illness is the root-cause of our problems." Thus spoke Nawaz Sharif, breaking his long silence, while addressing the All Parties Conference held in Islamabad on 20 September. He was addressing the conference from London.

The conference included the following: Shahbaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz, the President and Vice-President respectively of the PML-N; Bilawal Bhutto, the Chairman of the PPP; and Maulana Fazlur Rahman, leader of his faction of the JUI.

Sharif was also quoted to have stated: "Either we have martial laws in the country or a strong parallel government is created whenever we have a civilian government. Our foremost priority is to get rid of this non-representative, incapable and selected government. And more important for us is to get rid of this system which is targeting the people, the opposition and even the judges of good repute." ("Nawaz takes 'parallel govt' head-on," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

Asif Ali Zardari also addressed the All Parties Conference online. He was quoted to have stated: "The pygmies and selected do not have any regard for the constitution, but this constitution was drafted by very visionary and farsighted people, and the 18th Amendment is a measure to restore the 1973 Constitution." ("Nawaz takes 'parallel govt' head-on," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

According to Dawn, Fazlur Rahman presented a charter, that included the following, in a 26 points declaration: "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law." ("Nawaz takes 'parallel govt' head-on," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

Linking the PTI and the Establishment
One of the underlying themes of the All Parties Conference that came out clearly was linking the ruling party with the Establishment. From Sharif to Rahman, everyone stressed the above point, through different statements – some obvious, and the others discreetly. For example, Maulana Fazlur Rahman said: "This meeting has declared that the present selected government has been provided strength by the Establishment which had imposed it on the people through rigging in the elections. The meeting has expressed grave concerns over the increasing role of the Establishment in politics and considered it a threat to the country's national security and institutions." ("Opposition parties form alliance to oust govt," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

Targeting Gen Asim Bajwa
Gen Asim Bajwa's targeting in particular. According to Dawn, "Through the resolution, the opposition parties also demanded sacking of Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information retired Lt Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa and a transparent investigation into the media report about his offshore businesses and properties." ("Opposition parties form alliance to oust govt," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

On the case against Gen Asim Bajwa (relating to the business fortunes of his family members), Sharif was direct: "[Mainstream] media was silent. NAB remained unmoved. No court took [suo motu] notice. No JIT was formed. No monitoring judge was appointed."

The immediate response from the government
"The opposition's all-parties conference was a flimsy attempt to put pressure on the government to back off from accountability," said Senator Shibli Faraz, the Minister for Information and Broadcasting.

On Monday (21 September 2020), the government arranged for a quick press conference, with senior leaders of the PTI, trying to get the Establishment on its side. Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pakistan's Foreign Minister, asked the APM not to "drag national institutions into politics".

Are the lines drawn, in the battles ahead?

Appears so. With the PTI trying to drag the Establishment to its side, and the Opposition parties willing to take on. How far, will they take? Will there be a movement? Will there be protests against the government in Islamabad as the PTI staged one against the PML-N when the latter was in power?

The most important question is: What will be the response from the State above the State?

 
Pakistan's persisting polio problem (Image Source: Dawn)

The Polio Vaccination joint-campaign begins
On 20 September, Rashid Razzaq, the coordinator of the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Balochistan, announced the commencement of a four-day vaccination campaign against poliovirus in all 33 districts of Balochistan on 21 September. Razzaq said campaign preparations had been complete and that 10,585 teams of vaccinators including 8,988 mobile teams, would participate. According to Dawn, the ceremony held at Prince Fahad Hospital in Dalbandin was inaugurated by District Health Officer Dr Abdul Ghani Balochalong with Chagai Deputy Commissioner Agha Sher Zaman and other officials inaugurated the campaign by administering the polio drops to children. ("Polio vaccination drive in Balochistan begins," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

Over 2.5 million children to be administered polio drops
The campaign is being jointly launched by Baluchistan's government and the EOC. Polio drops would be administered to over 2.5 million children below the age of five years. 941 vaccinator teams would be deployed at city and town camps and 594 teams at the Baluchistan's borders. He added that for the protection of the polio workers adequate security arrangements such as the deployment of personnel of police, Levies force and Frontier Corps (FC) had been made. Religious leaders would also aid in persuading parents to ensure the vaccination of the children, Razzaq added.

More polio cases lead to replacement of DDOH
On 20 September, another poliovirus case was reported from Baluchistan. A National Institute of Health official said the latest victim was a seven-month-old boy from Quetta district. "The child's right lower limb has been paralyzed and socio-economic status of the family has been declared poor," he said. ("Polio case reported from Balochistan," Dawn, 21 September 2020) Meanwhile, Jhang's District Health Authority chief executive officer reported four confirmed polio cases in the district of Jhang and replaced the deputy district officer health (DDOH) Dr Ahsan Saliyana with Dr Munir Shirin. Dr Ahsan Saliyana is not being allowed to work as the Deputy Medical Superintendent (General) of the DHQ Hospital. ("Four polio cases reported in Jhang; deputy DDOH changed," The News International, 21 September 2020)

Why Pakistan's polio problem persists
Chagai is Pakistan's largest district by area and shares the country's borders with both Afghanistan and Iran. Afghanistan and Pakistan are the only two endemic countries where polio cases are still being detected. So far, 73 polio cases have been reported in Pakistan. The country had 147 cases in 2019, a steep rise from the 12 cases in 2018. Five causes cause for the proliferating persisting polio problem of Pakistan has been identified by Abigail Mariam in her Pakistan Reader's insight note titled "The Polio Crisis in Pakistan" - "social misconceptions and conspiracy theories", "alienated mistrustful communities", "the politicization of polio and governance issues", "conflict, militancy and the attacks on polio workers" and the "challenge of "Last Mile" vaccination efforts". Abigail argues that "while the Polio Endgame Strategy 2019–2023 states a clear requirement for integrated services, there has been no currently no budget allocated to support it, as would be expected in project management terms. This gives the impression of there being no true commitment to integration."

 
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa hosts a farewell dinner for the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing (Image Source: The News)

Global SDG Index: "Pakistan performs the worst in South Asia"
According to the annual stocktaking exercise that appraises the 17 goals, Sustainable Development Goal Report 2020, Pakistan has been placed at the 134thrank by the Global SDG Index 2020 (down from 130th in 2019). The Dawn article says that although Pakistan's incumbent government has been handling the Covid-19 pandemic related mortality rate and its spread better than others, the government "did not stop the country from slipping four positions to rank 134th on the Global SDG Index this year, from 130th in 2019, out of the 193 countries." The report graded Pakistan as the worst performer in South Asia. The best being Sri Lanka at 94thrank, Nepal at 96th, Bangladesh at 109th and India at 117th. According to the report that analyses the nation's performance on 17 goals, Pakistan has made significant progress in six out of 17 goals in 2020, wherein climate change is the only goal where progress is perfectly on track.

Quotable
Kanwal Shauzab, parliamentary secretary on planning and special initiatives who presented the Voluntary National Report on SDGs in the UN in 2019, said "Under the PTI rule, every dime allocated for the people's welfare has transparently been utilized. We disbursed more in direct cash grants to the needy in two years than any past government did in its full five-year term. Today, I am confident that no one sleeps hungry in this country and if the world still views us as a passive partner on SDGs, then they are misled."

Dr Shabnum Sarfaraz, head of the federal SDG unit, challenged the report's credibility of saying that it "is not a UN report but issued by (the) Sustainable Development Solution Network". She said "… owing to changes in the indicator selection, the 2020 ranking is not comparable to the last year… progress that Pakistan made remains unaccounted."

Project coordinator for the Sindh SDG Unit Rafique Mustafa Shaikh said "We have covered the difficult phase of creating the legal framework to facilitate SDGs. In partnership with the UNDP, we are working with aligned departments and other stakeholders to provide coordination, knowledge and technical support to integrate policies, plans and budget with the 2030 Agenda. To this end, we set 169 targets and agreed on 168 indicators". 

Leaders in Denial
The article says that while the ruling PTI government's efforts for correction are yet to yield results and reflect in social indicators, the leaders of the incumbent government are in "perfect denial" and have blamed the bureaucracy for the poor rating. The article quotes a PTI leader's statement: "Yes, officialdom is responsible for embarrassing Pakistan. They did not update social indicators diligently and landed the country in a sorry place. The old data can't reflect the current reality". The article says that despite the lack of standing for Center's claims in the absence of the annual assessment report on SDGs, PTI leaders did not refrain from casting doubts on the global report. ("Whither sustainable development?," Dawn, 21 September 2020)


In Brief 
INTERNAL

Hindu community demands temple funds
Hindu lawmakers, including MNA Lal Chand Malhi, and civil society have demanded PM Imran Khan to release promised funds for the construction of a temple in Islamabad. They have also announced to meet the Islamic Ideological Council (IIC) Chairman and other political and religious party officials. 

The community members said that the PM should fulfill his promise of granting Rs 100 million for the temple citing that they have no proper site of worship. A Human Rights Commission (HRC) Member, Krishan Sharma, also made it clear that their demand was a mere social requirement since there are around 3000 Hindu families living in Islamabad and its outskirts. The community maintained that a temple in Islamabad would defeat the Hindutva ideology of Indian Premier. ("Hindu community demands temple fund,The Express Tribune, 21 September 2020)

"In less than eight years, Islamabad has been under siege for 170 days": The News 
An article written by Sabir Shah in The News International explains about the history of large rallies by political and religious rallies led by their leaders to Islamabad which is described as the "long march". The author cites the research conducted by the "Jang Group and Geo Television Network" shows that Islamabad was under siege for 170 days during major sit-ins since 13 January 2013. He talks about Dr Tahirul Qadri who featured in two out of four major sit-ins in Islamabad where highly sensitive buildings like the Parliament House, Supreme Court, the President and Prime Minister's residences, the state-run radio and television stations while threatening the government. 

Mr Shah adds that the rallies were not restricted to pressurizing Nawaz Sharif but also targeted Imran Khan's government where Maulana Fazlur Rehman led a long march before blocking the roads. (Sabir Shah, "In less than eight years, Islamabad has been under siege for 170 days," The News International, 21 September 2020)

"The situation is ominous" says a Dawn editorial on sectarian rallies in Karachi
An editorial in the Dawn gives a background on the sectarian violence in Pakistan and the apathy of the federal government. It mentions a caution raised by Sherry Rehman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the Senate when she spoke about the growing anti-Shia campaign. The editorial talks about the three 'Azmat-i-Sahaba' rallies which were attacked by Deobandi, Barelvi and Ahle Hadith organizations while the latter raised Takfiri slogans. It criticizes the government's inactions in all these events. Although the editorial acknowledges the progress made by the government on dismantling terrorist organizations, the presence of sectarian rallies shows a negative picture of the government's control over the situation. It has stated that the violence manifested around the time if the debate over Punjab's Tahaffuz-i-Bunyad-i-Islam bill as well as charging 40 Shias under the blasphemy law during Muharram. ("Sectarian tensions," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

ECONOMY
$200 million loan for construction of dams in Sindh
The Sindh government will receive a $200 million loan from the World Bank for the construction of small rainwater-fed recharge dams to address problems relating to flash floods and droughts. The dams will be situated in Dadu, Thatta, Karachi, Jamshoro and Tharparkar districts. Shortage of irrigation water along with drought conditions in Sindh has increased the salience of groundwater exploitation. Fresh water is found mostly in a strip parallel to the left bank of the Indus River and some pockets in other areas. Sindh is predicted to be the most vulnerable "hotspot" in Pakistan. (Amin Ahmed, "$200m WB loan likely for construction of small dams in Sindh," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

Pakistan's gross saving rate remains in single-digit
An article written by Nadeem Hussain in the Dawn highlights about Pakistan's gross saving rate. In the beginning, he states that if a country's saving rate is below its investment rate, it would be difficult to achieve stability and sustainable growth. The gross saving rate as of 30 June 2020 was 8.4 per cent. Mr Hussain suggests that circulation of currency into the formal economy there would be benefits. He adds that this could take place if the economy is customer-driven. The author highlights the prevalence of the committee system, an informal mechanism for people to save and suggests digitalization of the process. Lastly, he mentions the importance of platform providers to assist the public. (Nadeem Hussain, "How to make Pakistanis save," Dawn, 21 September 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Inclusive Afghanistan
In an opinion column in The Express Tribune, the author says that while getting the warring parties to talk was difficult and took a long time, writing a new inclusive Constitution is going to be harder. The previous Constitution was written by Americans and agreed to by a segment of Afghans in an international gathering in Germany in 2001. 

He outlines the previous conditions which the Taliban had placed - withdrawal of the US troops and release of prisoners by Kabul - before moving further with peace negotiations. Now the onus lies on the Afghans to write a Constitution that is inclusive of various ethnic groups, religious minorities, and women while Islam remains the main governing element. The conflict between the Shias and Sunnis has made nation-building difficult for Afghanistan. While the Taliban leans towards Saudi Arabia for inspiration and financial assistance, the Shiite Hazaras has the support of Iran. This divide affects Kabul's internal affairs and foreign relations. ("Setting the stage for Afghanistan negotiations," The Express Tribune, 21 September 2020)

ON INDIA
India's Faultlines
An opinion column in The Nationhighlights India's political, religious and socio-economic faultlines. The author refers to India: A Study in Profile by Lt Gen Javed Hassan (Retd) in which he says Dravidians in the south, Mongoloids in the northeast and Aryans in the Center and north is a major contributing factor to these faultlines. 

The author highlights the vigilante killings of Dalits and Muslims under the Modi government. He then lists out insurgencies across India. These include various militant outfits in the seven northeast states demanding liberation from India, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) planning a referendum for Khalistan in 2022, the Naxal conflict, the Kashmir conflict, and the Tamil struggle against north Indian hegemony. He then links the exclusion of Muslims in Assam's NRC and granting of domicile to Hindus in Kashmir to the RSS-BJP front. 

The author says despite India being a secular democracy, it is a fanatic Hindu state holding on to its Hindutva ideology rooted in the caste system. He does not rule out the possibility of a Muslim uprising against Hindu led atrocities in the near future. If these faultlines are ignored, there could be catastrophic consequences which may even lead to India's disintegration. ("Indian Faultlines," The Nation, 21 September 2020)

 

 


"While three bills related to FATF were finally passed, not all is rosy in the parliament. The opposition challenged the count done by the NA staff on the first bill, held that the bill was void because Dr Babar Awan, an adviser to the prime minister who presented the bill, did not have authority. Upon the Speaker’s refusal to accommodate the objection, the opposition protested noisily, tore copies of the bill and staged a boycott of the proceedings of the joint sitting. Thus, most of the laws related to FATF, like several clauses of the Anti-Money Laundering (Second Amendment) Bill and the Anti-Money Laundering (Second Amendment) Bill, were passed with a voice vote without any opposition."

-  Editorial in The Nation on the FATF bills being passed in the Parliament "without any oversight."

 

 


Kashmir will be the focus of PM Khan’s UN address, says FO


Photo: Dawn



According to the Foreign Office’s statement on 18 September, Kashmir would be the focal point of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s speech to the United Nations General Assembly on 25 September. The spokesman also informed that Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi would virtually participate in the UNGA’s high-level meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations and other such engagements. The FO also rejected India’s request for the appointment of a foreign lawyer in the Jadhav case and expressed concerns regarding India’s military buildup.

Quotable

During the weekly media briefing, FO Spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said “Due to restrictions imposed by the local government in New York, there will be no in-person high-level participation from outside. Prime Minister Imran Khan will address the General Assembly on Friday, 25th September”. He said: “... Jammu and Kashmir dispute will certainly be an important component of the Prime Minister’s UNGA address. Let me reiterate that Jammu and Kashmir dispute continues to remain a Foreign Policy priority for Pakistan”.

On India’s military buildup

Reacting to the formal induction of India’s first five of the 36 Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft into the Indian Air Force (IAF) (which are being celebrated as a game changer by the IAF), he accused New Delhi of amassing military capabilities beyond India’s genuine security needs. Mr. Chaudhry said “Pakistan has been consistently highlighting the risk of massive Indian arms buildup as well as their offensive security doctrine and force postures, which are adversely affecting strategic stability in South Asia”. “The world community must dissuade India from its disproportionate arms buildup which could lead to an arms race in South Asia,” he added.

Highlights from PM Khan’s speech at the 74th UNGA in 2019

Imran Khan criticised the revocation of Article 370 by the incumbent Indian government; called it an illegal annexation; and highlighted the sufferings of the Kashmiris. He also criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s RSS inspired ideology and anti-Pakistan rhetoric. (“PM Imran minces no words at UN, calls out Modi govt for oppression of Kashmiris,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

The 75thUNGA session will include a summit on biodiversity; a meeting to promote and commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons; and an event to commemorate the United Nation’s 75thanniversary. The UNGA session’s centerpiece, the general debate, would commence on 22 September. The upcoming 75thsession is unique as for the first time the leaders would not be attending the meetings in person. The recorded video statements by heads of states would be introduced and played “as live” in the UNGA by the respective country’s envoy. (“PM’s UN address on 25th will focus on Kashmir issue,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

 

Cabinet Committee on Enforced Disappearances seeks reports on disappearances

During the first meeting Cabinet Committee on Enforced Disappearances, convened at the Ministry of Law and Justice on 18 September, the issue of the swelling incidence of disappearances in Pakistan was appraised. The federal cabinet directed high-level committee, chaired by the Federal Minister for Law and Justice Barrister Farogh Naseem, sought detailed reports from intelligence agencies, police and district administrations to counter the problem. The federal minister also urged participants to adhere by the mandate provided by the cabinet to figure out the causes and reasons for the enforced disappearances and submit recommendations to curb the incidence of such occurrences. The Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari was also in attendance. (“Panel on enforced disappearances seeks reports from police, other agencies,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

Mr Nassem directed Islamabad Capital Territory Director General Syeda Shafaq Hashmi, Inspector General of Police Amir Zulfiqar and the Inter-Services Intelligence, the Intelligence Bureau and the interior ministry to provide information regarding the disappearances in the commission’s next meeting, expected to be convened next week. He also raised serious questions to the police officials.

The scathing ICJ verdict

An International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) briefing paper on “Entrenching Impunity, Denying Redress: The Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances in Pakistan” lamented that although the COIED has successfully traced the whereabouts of missing persons in various cases, no apparent effort to curb the heinous crime has been observed. The ICJ observed that the COIED failed to address the issue. An ICJ legal and policy director Ian Seiderman said “This commission has failed in holding even a single perpetrator of enforced disappearance responsible in its nine years”. “A commission that does not address impunity, nor facilitate justice for victims and their families, can certainly not be considered effective,” he added.

In March 2011, the COIED headed by Justice Javed Iqbal, was constituted to trace the whereabouts of missing persons and to pin down accountability on organisations or individuals for the disappearances. (“ICJ assails performance of probe body on enforced disappearances,”Dawn, 19 September 2020)

 

Pakistani scientist joins the governing body of Europe’s leading public university

Mishal Khan, a Pakistani scientist has been elected to the governing body of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) which has been at the forefront of research on COVID-19 in recent months. The governing body known as the council is largely responsible for operational and strategic management at a time when other public health institutions are playing a vital role in the pandemic. The announcement of Mishal Khan’s appointment was made by the chair of LSHTM Council, Don Roberts known for his position as the chairman of the London Stock Exchange Group. (“Pakistani joins governing body of Europe’s varsity,” Dawn, 19 September 2020) 

Previously…

The new addition comes in a month after Pakistan-born astrophysicist Nergis Mavalvala was named the new dean of a top American institute the MIT School of Science, one of the five schools of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Mavalvala is renowned for her work in gravitational-wave detection as a leading member of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO).  MIT President L. Rafael Reif stated that Mavalvala is a deft, collaborative problem-solver who is a generous colleague and an incomparable mentor. The astrophysicist finished her PhD from MIT in 1997 and also received the prestigious MacArthur Foundation Award in 2016. “Pakistan-born astrophysicist Nergis Mavalvala named dean of MIT School of Science,” Dawn, 18 August 2020) 

 

In-Brief

INTERNAL

Opposition’s Agenda in the All Parties Conference

An opinion column in the Dawn chalks out two possible agendas for the opposition for Sunday’s multiparty conference (MPC). 1) Target to remove the government before its term expires in 2023 or 2) let the government complete its term but make life difficult for it.

To remove the government before 2023, the author suggests five ways. This includes a no confidence vote, change in the PTI’s leadership, a nationwide opposition dharna, opposition’s resignation from the National Assembly, and forging a consensus between Nawaz Sharif, Asif Zardari and Maulana Fazlur Rehman. However, the above options could jeopardisethe opposition; it may result in political chaos and even violence with unpredictable consequences.

To make life difficult for the government, the opposition can become more vocal in the Parliament and the media; these actions have so far not worked in favour of the opposition. The opposition could hit the streets provided there’s definite outcome and objective and it can sustain these efforts till 2023. Would the opposition risk to peak so early? Perhaps not and the opposition may surprise everyone on Sunday with something different altogether. (“What does the opposition want?Dawn, 19 September 2020)

Nawaz Sharif to participate in virtual multiparty conference

Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif will attend a virtual multiparty conference led by the opposition scheduled to be held on 20 September. This would be his first meeting in more than a year ever since he flew to London for medical treatment. Senator Musadik Malik confirmed Mr Sharif’s participation on a show hosted by Samaa TV and added that Maryam Nawaz would be present in the meeting as well. The conference would be held to formulate a strategy to counter Imran Khan’s government over bad governance, sugar and wheat scandals and inflation. (Aamir Yasin and Atika Rehman, “Nawaz to virtually participate in multiparty conference,” Dawn, 19 September 2020) 

Sarena Isa refuses to accept tax liability, criticizes FBR chairman

Sarena Isa, the wife of Supreme Court judge Justice Qazi Faez Isa refused to accept a tax liability of Rs 35 million declared by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). She alleged that a “team of Imran Khan” which included Zulfiqar Ahmed from the FSB fabricated a false case against her and therefore intended to file an appeal against the order. Mrs Isa claimed that Mr Ahmed’s temporary appointment is fixed for the duration of her case.  (Malik Asad, “Justice Isa’s wife refuses to accept Rs 35m tax liability,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

Justice Isa is expected to take over as the Chief Justice of Pakistan Supreme Court in 2023. In 2019, the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Amanullah Kunrani accused the government of tarnishing Justice Isa’s reputation after his verdicts on two cases where he held a section of law enforcing agencies for patronage and failure. The cases were related to a violent sit-in by a religious group in Islamabad in 2018 and the killing of lawyers in a suicide attack in Quetta in 2016. (Islamuddin Sajid, “Pakistan top court dismisses reference against judge,” Anadolu Agency, 20 June 2020)

Controversy in the joint session of the Parliament

The opposition was unable to block ‘controversial’ legislation despite having a majority in the joint session of the Parliament on 16 September. This enabled the government to pass eight bills including three related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It was estimated that 53 members, mostly from the opposition, did not participate in the joint session of the Parliament which prompted the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples (PPP) in deciding to take action against the members. (“53 MPs were absent from Parliament’s joint session,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

The opposition, however, had reiterated that they were never against the FATF-related legislation except on bills which were involving violation of basic human rights and freedom. PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal and PPP leader Sherry Rehman said that the worst kind of rigging was committed in vote count during the joint session of the Parliament. They believe that the FATF was a reason for the government to victimise the opposition leaders by calling them traitors. The (Muhammad Anis, “Joint sitting: Opposition accuses govt of rigging in vote count,” The News International, 19 September 2020)

Pakistan Bar Association organises All Parties Conference

An editorial in The News International, focuses on the All Parties Conference organised by the Pakistan Bar Association on Wednesday. The conference - attended by mainstream opposition leaders, lawyers, journalists and others - raised questions about lack of accountability, loss of civil rights freedom and crackdown on press freedom.

Though these concerns were backed by Shahbaz Sharif and Bilawal Bhutto, the editorial questions whether these concerns could be addressed given there is lack of unity among political parties; there are rumours that Shahbaz Sharif is dissatisfied with his own party and may be planning strategies of his own.

The lawyers and Pakistan Bar Association have, however, have given a framework and a set of recommendations which can help the country move towards democracy. (“Calling all parties,”The News International, 19 September 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW

Pakistan and regional trade

An editorial in the Dawn, explains why Pakistan has poor trade relations with South Asian countries except Sri Lanka as Pakistan has decided to establish markets along borders with Afghanistan and Iran to boost trade. It highlights that Pakistan’s exports to and imports from neighbouring countries fell between 2011 and 2018.

Trade relations with India have been hindered due to the Kashmir dispute. Due to this, Pakistan has limited access to markets beyond India. On the west, though Afghanistan remains an important trade partner, internal security issues and a trust gap between the two states restrict trade. This also blocks Pakistan’s access to other Central Asian markets and seals the fate of a trade corridor connecting South Asia with the Central Asian Republics. Pakistan can access these markets through China but that route that remains closed five months owing to the harsh weather

Intra-regional trade is important for in economic development and GDP growth. Regional trade constitutes 65 percent of the EU’s international trade.  This figure is 35 percent and 25 percent in East Asia and Southeast Asia respectively while it is a mere 5 percent in South Asia. Pakistan alone cannot resolve the intra-regional trade issue; all stakeholders should work towards regional cooperation for faster economic growth and peace in the region. (“Regional Trade,” Dawn, 19 September 2020)

Arab Cultural Narcissism

An opinion column in theDawn cautions Pakistan about the cultural narcissism that has prevailed in the Arab world. The author outlines that Arab nations, which have understood that the oil economy will eventually fall, are pumping money into science and education. Though a respectable science journal praises Arab countries’ progress - going by the number of research papers published from universities - there is no other evidence to support the narrative of the Arab world being a scientific powerhouse.

The author says that Arab culture is self-absorbed and self-congratulatory; it is narcissistic. The culture fails to be innovative and lives in the glorious past of Islamic achievements.

There are some signs of hope today in the Arab world; many are moving up the learning curve. There is wider media access and more personal freedoms, particularly for women. With these arguments, the author shifts focus to Pakistan.

Referring to Pakistanis’ new-found obsession with the Ertugrul drama series, the author says the country is building its own narcissistic illusions based on its Turkic-Islamic past. Further, under the PTI’s Single National Curriculum, there is increased religious content and rote-learning and an absence of world history, philosophy, epistemology, or comparative religions. (“Arab Cultural Narcissism.”Dawn, 19 September 2020)

India and Afghanistan

An opinion column in The Nation, claims that India is derailing the peace process in Afghanistan. The authors say that India, which has invested around $3bn into Afghanistan in the last 15 years, was “fuelling the war machine.”

The authors believe that “India armed the Afghan forces as well as terrorist entities like IS and TTP with a view to target Taliban freedom fighters.” According to the article, India’s objectives in the region were to befriend anti-Pakistan outfits and penetrate the area east of River Indus including Balochistan to support proxy war against Pakistan.

The column further says that as the Taliban regime fell, India and the RAW’s facade came down as Afghanistan later became the centre of the power game led by the US and approximately 40 intelligence agencies pursuing individual agendas. To support this claim, the authors point out to Indian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat insisting on talking to the Taliban during the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

The authors conclude by urging Afghanistan to “realise that the RAW and Indian government has blood of many of the Taliban martyrs on their hands.” (“How India targets Afghanistan,”The Nation, 19 September 2020)

 


Pakistan’s Persisting Polio Problem:


Photo: The News



On 17 September, nine new polio cases were reported, including seven cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type-2 (cVDPV2) from two provinces in Pakistan. The reporting was a huge blow to Pakistan’s polio eradication campaign. (“Nine polio cases found in Punjab, Balochistan,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

A quick background
Although Pakistan’s polio immunization campaign commenced in 1974, the eradication efforts began much later in 1994. However, Pakistan remained trapped in the infection’s clutches and recorded the world’s highest number of polio cases in 2014. Even as Africa has been declared polio-free, in Pakistan the problem persists. In its recent assessment, the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) had cautioned that the situation in Pakistan could worsen if the country does not adopt transformative measures to eradicate poliovirus in the next six months.

Causes for Pakistan’s failure
Pakistan Reader’s insight note titled “The Polio Crisis in Pakistan” identifies five reasons: First, “social misconceptions and conspiracy theories”. There exists a strong correlation between negative socioeconomic factors and low immunization completion. Second, “alienated mistrustful communities”. Due to neglect, lack of proper sanitary infrastructure, health services and other public services many communities in Pakistan have alienated from their government. Third, “the politicization of polio and governance issues”. Fourth, “conflict, militancy and the attacks on polio workers”. The Taliban-imposed ban (2012) on vaccination proved detrimental to polio eradication efforts in Pakistan, especially in FATA. For over two years, more than 350,000 children remained unvaccinated. Additionally, the Polio vaccination teams regularly suffer several attacks on the Polio workers, volunteers and their guards.

Fifth, the challenge of “Last Mile” vaccination efforts”. The article argues that “while the Polio Endgame Strategy 2019–2023 states a clear requirement for integrated services, there has been no currently no budget allocated to support it, as would be expected in project management terms. This gives the impression of there being no true commitment to integration.”

Media Opines
A Dawn editorial says “A viable strategy is needed to address other health issues too during the present crisis (pandemic) — such as building tighter networks with the help of our doctors practising at the grassroots… We (Pakistan) cannot forever go on blaming our failures and below-par performances on a single emergency.” (“Polio in pandemic,” Dawn, 29 August 2020) Another Dawn editorial says Pakistan must seek Nigeria’s advice to eradicate the polio problem by drawing parallels between the two countries, including the militancy issue. It says “There is no time for dilly-dallying; all caveats and excuses must be set aside to achieve the task ahead.” (“Polio storm,” Dawn, 30 August 2020)

 
 (Image Source: The Express Tribune)

FDI jumps by 24 per cent, says SBP

On 17 September, the State Bank of Pakistan reported that the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) had jumped 23.5 per cent to $112.3 million in August, up from $90.3m in August 2019. Considering month-on-month, the FDI dipped by $2m or 1.75 per cent from July 2020’s figure of $114.3m. According to Dawn, during the first two months of FY21, FDI increased by 40 per cent to $226.7m, compared to $162m in the congruent period of FY20. But since the pandemic emerged in March 2020, the inflows initially dropped until an increase of (year-on-year) 61 per cent to $114.3m in July. (“Foreign investment jumps 24pc in August,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

Sectoral fluctuations
Financial business showed that highest inflow of $85.4m during July-August. It attracted $14m in the first two months of the previous fiscal year. Communications received $37m during the review period. Electrical machinery’s FDI more than doubled to $36.5m, from $15m. Oil and gas exploration sector recorded a $34.3m FDI. 

Country-wise Inflows
China stood at $6.6m during July-August, higher than $2.9m recorded in the same period of 2019. Inflows from US and UK did not show any significant improvement. Highest FDI of $45m came from Norway in July-August; significantly higher compared to a negligible $0.1m. Inflows from Netherlands and Malta also showed no significant change. It stood at $39.6m and $37m, respectively during July-August.

 
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa hosts a farewell dinner for the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing (Image Source: The News)

COAS hosts farewell dinner for outgoing Chinese envoy
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa hosted a farewell dinner for Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing. The two acknowledged each other’s contribution to building strong diplomatic relations between the two countries. The COAS thanked the Ambassador for his support in handling the COVID-19 pandemic and his stand on Kashmir. (“Outgoing Chinese envoy meets General Qamar Javed Bajwa,”The News International, 18 September 2020)

China expresses confidence over Pakistan’s exclusion from FATF grey list
China had shown confidence over a possible exit of Pakistan from the list of countries under the surveillance of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This view was expressed by the Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing during a meeting with the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Hafeez Shaikh. The FATF placed Pakistan on the grey list in June 2018 and gave 27 conditions out of which 14 points were deemed fulfilled. The deadline has been set in September/October 2020 for Pakistan to address the remaining points in order to exit from the grey list. (“China confident over Pakistan’s exit from FATF grey list,” The News International, 18 September 2020)
 

In Brief 
INTERNAL
Editorial criticizes FATF-related bills passed without any oversight
An editorial in The Nation is critical of the way the Parliament passed eight important bills including three related to the FATF. The editorial, while acknowledging the progress, held that the Parliament passed the bills despite the opposition staging a boycott after the first FATF-related bill was presented by Dr. Babar Awan, an adviser to the PM, who they held did not have the authority. 

It suggests that the government and the opposition find a middle ground to resolve the disagreements on special clauses regarding the bills. It draws from the example of the government agreeing to shift the problematic clause on surveillance techniques to investigate offences of money laundering from the Anti-Money Laundering Bill-2020 to the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). (“Finding Middle Ground,” The Nation, 18 September 2020)

Pakistan’s economy shows signs of recovery
An editorial in the Dawn has highlighted the condition of Pakistan’s economy ever since the pandemic affected the country. It mentions a report by the Asian Development Bank released on 15 September which has projected the economic expansion in Pakistan by two per cent in the current fiscal year. This shows that there has been significant growth from 0.4 per cent last year. The editorial has also cautioned about the authenticity of the report as it has also mentioned that the pandemic would subside by the end of December this year. While indicating that the future is uncertain, the editorial cites the report of Pakistan’s economic expansion to be significantly lower in comparison with its South Asian counterparts as the Maldives and India are staged to make a recovery by 10.5 per cent and eight per cent respectively. (“Economic prospects,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)  

Stay issued in Reko Diq case 
The World Bank’s International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICISD) has granted a stay on the enforcement of penalty awarded against Pakistan in the Reko Diq case. A statement was issued by the Attorney General office, which said: “This is a success for Pakistan and its legal team.” On 17 September. An Australian mining company Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) was denied the mining lease in Balochistan’s Riko Diq area for which an ICISD tribunal issued a fine of $5.97 billion against Pakistan in July 2019. Proceedings over the penalty have taken place where Pakistan was granted a provisional stay in April this year and again on 16 September. The ICISD is still considering Pakistan’s appeal against the penalty and a final hearing will take place in May 2021. (Nasir Iqbal, “World Bank tribunal issues stay in Reko Diq,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

On women in the informal sector
An article written by Faisal Bari in the Dawn highlights the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Pakistani women in the informal sector of the economy. He mentions that the non-essential work shutdowns forced almost all the women in the informal sector to stay home, and many were not paid in the period. During these months, many households have borrowed heavily although they tried to cut down on the expenditure. The author explains that this led to the disruption of the capital, and eventually, micro-businesses had a negative impact. Mr Bari explains that many women experienced increased responsibilities at home, like taking care of the elderly and children. He highlights the increase in cases of domestic violence against women. The author stated that there had been no support from the government to address the difficulties of women. (Faisal Bari, “Women in the informal sector,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

ON SHARIF
Pakistan’s mission in London receives warrants for Nawaz Sharif
The Pakistan High Commission in London received warrants by the government to arrest former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on 17 September. There was no official comment on the development, however, sources added that all legal formalities and procedures would be adhered to. The Foreign Secretary was directed by the Assistant Registrar of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to ensure that Mr Sharif is produced before the court by 11 am on 22 September. The IHC had already issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Mr Sharif earlier this week after dismissing his application seeking exemption from personal appearance in hearing of appeals against his conviction in the Al-Azazia and Avenfield properties case. (Atika Rehman, “Pakistan’s mission in London gets warrants for Nawaz,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

ON INDIA
The onus is on India to address Kashmir issue to normalize ties: Foreign Office
Pakistan and India have put the onus on each other to normalize ties by creating a favourable environment. The former’s Foreign Office said, “The onus is on India to create an enabling environment by rescinding its illegal and unilateral actions, ending its state-terrorism against the Kashmiri people, and agreeing to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with international legitimacy.” The level of representation from both the countries has been lowered ever since India revoked the special status conferred on the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The statement comes in after India’s Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said that the onus is on Pakistan to create a “conducive atmosphere” in Rajya Sabha on 17 September. (“India must end illegal actions in Kashmir for normalization: FO,” Dawn, 18 September 2020)

On US-India joint statement on counter-terrorism
Another opinion column in The Nation, criticizes the US’ targeting of Pakistan when it comes to terrorism. The author refers to a 10 September statement by the US-India Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group and Designations Dialogue urging Pakistan to take necessary counter-terrorism measures. 

The author believes that the statement, which was rejected by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is an endorsement of the Indian narrative. He blames the world community, including trio major powers - the US, UK, France - for turning a blind eye to India’s, and particularly the BJP-RSS’ activities towards her minorities, her support to the insurgency in Balochistan. He says the US and its allies look the other way while India carries out “illegal actions in IIO&JK and continues to persecute the people of the state with impunity and without international pressure.” He believes that major powers maintain relations with India to suit their ‘contain China’ policy.

The author acknowledges that though Pakistan cannot afford to rupture its relations with the US, it needs to rethink its relations with the US and seek solutions to her security and strategic issues within its own region. (“The US-India Nexus,”The Nation, 18 September 2020) 

EXTERNAL
Markets to be established along borders with Iran and Afghanistan
The government has decided to set up 18 markets along Pakistan’s borders with Afghanistan and Iran in order to boost trade with the two countries and curb smuggling activities. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan which included the plan to establish three markets as a pilot project with two in Balochistan and one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Prime Minister was also briefed on an ordinance promulgated to prevent smuggling of food items and currency by empowering law-enforcement agencies to check such activities in airports and borders. (“18 markets to be set up along borders with Iran, Afghanistan,” Dawn, 18 September 2020) 
 

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Iran and the Afghan Peace Process
An editorial in The Nation, welcomes Iran’s offer to help with the intra-Afghan talks citing the friendly relations Tehran’s friendly relations with Afghan factions, like the hazaras, and it being a firm believer of an inclusive Afghanistan. 

The editorial further outlines the slim but possible chances of improvement of US-Iran relations through the intra-Afghan talks. The involvement of Tehran in the peace talks paves way for its backchannel diplomacy with Washington since both want Afghanistan to be free from a civil war and the Islamic State. The two also agree that Kabul needs a power-sharing mechanism which does not topple the existing government. 

The editorial says that if the US wants a long-term solution in Afghanistan, they need to include Iran as a stakeholder. (“Iran’s Offer,”The Nation, 18 September 2020)

On Palestine 
An opinion column in The Nation, tries to throw light on the possible outcomes of the US-Israel endeavours in the Greater Middle East Region (GMER). The author highlights that by expanding the Abraham accords, Israel would gain hegemony in the region and the US and Arab countries would have one common enemy, Iran. 

The author tries to see what US President Donald Trump could possibly have on the cards during his possible second term. Trump may focus on a joint US-Israel-Gulf Arab front to achieve “collective interests” like eliminating Iran. The loss here is for the Muslim Ummah or the Muslim world community; the OIC, Arab League have already been ignored worldwide. 

In light of this, the author emphasizes that Pakistan must approach the situation carefully. The author reminds Pakistan that the Arab world’s rationale for ditching Palestine today will be replicated in Kashmir tomorrow. He warns Pakistan of the US’ penchant for establishing democracy across the world and reiterates the US’ failed expeditions during the Arab Spring. (“Ditching Palestine,”The Nation, 18 September 2020) 

 


"Unfortunately, Islamabad’s attitude towards both the ICJ and HRW is characterised by crass opportunism. When these organisations assail Indian atrocities in held Kashmir it uses their observations as the most authoritative and objective denunciation of New Delhi’s perfidy. They are accepted as totally unbiased defenders of rule of law and unadulterated justice. But if they point to anything wrong in the policies or conduct of Pakistan they are accused of all possible biases. That this attitude needs to be corrected cannot be disputed."

-  IA Rehman on Pakistan's responses to international reports on Enforced disappearances and media freedom inside the country.

 

 


The need for a twin strategy in south Balochistan:


Photo: Dawn



As a part of a series on Balochistan, a report in Dawn, on the southern district highlights the need for two primary strategies in the southern districts of the province. ("Banking on twin strategies," Dawn, 17 September 2020) Part one of the series was published on 16 September. Titled "Compensating for neglect," the first part looked at the following districts - Gwadar, Kech (Turbat), Panjgur, Awaraan and Lasbela, with the port at Gwadar in the background. About the region, it said: "This region wears the scars of state neglect. Much needs to be done to pull it into the national mainstream — and it needs to be done fast."

The second part looks at Turbat, Panjgur and Awaran districts through the prism of what has been transformed (or not) during the recent years, with militancy and development in the background. The report says: "This remains a troubled area, but officials say the situation has improved significantly in the last few years. Former chief minister Dr Malik acknowledges this."

The report underlines the need for the State to pursue a two-prong strategy – "economic and social development" coupled with political outreach to those presently outside the system."

The deadly duo: Militancy and Mis-Governance in Balochistan
On Awaraan district, the report talks about how, despite militancy, misgovernance has resulted in the under-development. The report highlights the level of corruption, and how the projects remain more on the paper, with nothing to show in the ground. The report says: "One example explains this: A project was approved, one per cent of work was done, and 90pc of payment was made. Project over."

Undoubtedly, misgovernance and militancy are a deadly duo. Not only in Balochistan, but also elsewhere in South Asia.

Will the CPEC change the above?
The second part of the report concludes with the CPEC as an opportunity to develop these districts. It says: "With CPEC rolling out swiftly, highways and motorways being carpeted across the region and the Gwadar port promising greater shipping traffic, an industrial zone and enhanced energy production, there is a real chance that Balochistan could reap the benefits of development. The security situation is getting…The provincial government needs to focus now on upgrading its system of governance so that money allocated equals money spent. If all these various initiatives are implemented as planned, Pakistan may have a real shot at integrating Balochistan ever deeper into the federation by providing the people of the province the opportunities, facilities and rights enjoyed by the citizens in other parts of Pakistan."

Establishment and Islamabad: The other deadly duo for Balochistan
Across South Asia, there is a general perception, that if the security is improved and economic development takes place, the situation is bound to improve. The argument goes – all that needs to be done is better governance by the provincial government. Such an argument misses a crucial point – the federal-provincial relationship (or the lack of it), and the strategy of the federal government to fire through the shoulders of security forces.

In Pakistan's case, there is an added problem. Along with Islamabad trying to fire through the shoulders of the military to govern, the Establishment also fire the province through Islamabad shoulders. That is a deadly duo and the real problem for Balochistan. Along with misgovernance and militancy in the province.

 
There has been a series of actions targeting the media and journalists in Pakistan. (Image Source: compiled by PR)

Enforced Disappearances and Media Freedom:
Dawn's editorial says "Gen Qamar Bajwa would also earn plaudits were he to distance the army from civilian affairs"

The editorial argues that although the right to freedom of speech is subject to "reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of … the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan" according to the Constitution, in reality, the subjects off-limits for the common citizenry constitutes a long list. If a journalist or commoner foregoes these unwritten rules, then it is "at their peril". 

The Vile Backdrop
The editorial comes in the wake of the arrest of Asad Ali Toor, on 14 September, a journalist based in Islamabad, on charges of maligning state institutions through social media. The journalist has been booked under sections 499 (Defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief). The charges against him include sections 11 (hate speech), 37 (unlawful online content) and 20 (offences against the dignity of a person) of the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act 2016. The complainant Ehtisham Ahmed is a resident of Rawalpindi. ("Journalist Asad Ali Toor booked for 'maligning state institutions'," Express Tribune, 15 September 2020) Previously, on 11 September, another journalist Absar Alam was booked on similar charges. The complainant, Chaudhry Naveed Ahmed accused Alam of using "extremely vulgar" language against PM Imran Khan and Pakistan Army, which according to him was tantamount to "treason". Earlier, Bilal Farooqi, a senior journalist associated with The Express Tribune, was booked for allegedly "defaming" the Army by posting "objectionable" content on social media. The complainant claimed that Farooqi had posted "highly provocative posts" against the Army. ("FIR registered against journalist Asad Toor for 'negative propaganda' against Army," Dawn, 17 September 2020)

The Editorial Opines
The Dawn editorial says that this heightened sensitivity extends a "blanket immunity" to certain persons. It says that citing the need for "national security" for the arrests such as that of Alam, Farooqi and Toor is a "specious use of the term". It opines that attempts in the National Assembly to make anyone who "intentionally ridicules, brings into disrepute or defames the armed forces of Pakistan or a member thereof" liable for "imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with a fine up to Rs500,000 or both" are unreasonable and dangerous for the federation. It states that while Pakistan shows no lack of admiration for the Pakistan Army and its soldiers who sacrifice themselves for the sake of the country's national territorial integrity, the Army must stay away from governance and policymaking and remain within its constitutional bounds. The editorial adds that "Gen Qamar Bajwa would also earn plaudits were he to distance the army from civilian affairs" like Gen Jehangir Karamat. It concludes by calling for the Army's tolerance towards constructive criticism.

Meanwhile…
The Senate Human Rights Committee Chairman Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar made a statement saying that the panel had taken notice of the FIR against Alam. Adding that the panel had demanded an explanation from the district police officer, he asked: "Parliament will keep on raising its voice but would the superior judiciary also take note?"

Significant recent developments
In August, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) held a sit-in to highlight the issue of enforced disappearances, particularly that of Shia persons. The protest ended after the federal minister for ports and shipping Ali Haider Zaidi gave assurances. ("Sit-in against 'enforced disappearances' of Shia persons ends on minister's assurances," Dawn, 17 August 2020) On 1 September, during a webinar organized by the HRCP to mark the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, activists called for legislation to stop and tackle the issue. ("Activists call for legislation to stem enforced disappearances," Dawn, 1 September 2020) On 7 September, the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) Justice Athar Minallah, expressing serious concern regarding the rising number of enforced disappearances in Islamabad, directed that PM Khan be briefed in order to devise a policy for the protection of the citizens' fundamental rights. ("IHC wants PM briefed on enforced disappearances," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

Previously, the illegal and unjustified detention of the editor in chief of the Geo TV/Jang Group of Newspapers Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman by the National Accountability Bureau had called for international attention and criticism. The recent Human Rights Watch report painted a glum image of the state of freedom of media, freedom of expression and related attacks on the civil society. Meanwhile, the World Press Freedom Index ranked Islamabad as the most dangerous region for journalists

On the need for free media and against enforced disappearances
An analysis written by IA Rehman in Dawn has been critical of Pakistan's response to criticisms. He cites the example of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) asking Islamabad not to extend the tenure of its Commission of Inquiry into Enforced Disappearances (COIED) as it failed to fulfil the objectives. This has been followed by a statement by Human Rights Watch (HRW) titled "Pakistan's Hypocrisy on Press Freedom: Editor's Jailing Shows Reality of Media Crackdown." The author further explains that despite the persistent demand by civil organizations, the COIED's report has not been released. He mentions that declaring enforced disappearances as a crime should be emphasized. (IA Rehman, "Listen to the critics," Dawn, 17 September 2020) 

 
Three new FATF bills were passed by the Parliament (Image Source: The News)

In Brief 
INTERNAL

Pakistan Parliament's joint session: Three FATF bills adopted amid confusion
On 16 September 2020, the government passed eight bills in the Parliament which included three Financial Action Task Force (FATF) bills and two others to bring in Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC). The joint session of Parliament was summoned by President Dr Arif Alvi to get the FATF-related bills passed. The opposition objected to the move done by Dr Babar Awan to present the bill as only a Member of National Assembly alone can do so. There was a ruckus over the proceedings where even a senator from Jamaat-i-Islami, Mushtaq Ghani accused the National Assembly Speaker of "passing legislations illegally." The three FATF-related bills passed include: Anti-Money Laundering (second amendment) Bill 2020, Anti-Terrorism Act (third amendment) Bill and Islamabad Capital Territory Waqf Properties Bill 2020. (Syed Irfan Raza, "Parliament's joint session adopts three FATF bills amid tumult," Dawn, 17 September 2020)

ON NAWAZ SHARIF
IHC directs govt to execute Nawaz Sharif's warrants through Pak HC in UK
The Islamabad High Court directed the government to comply with the issuance of non-bailable arrest warrant for former PM Nawaz Sharif in the Al-Azizia case. The Court ruled the government to execute Sharif's warrants through the Pakistan High Commission in the United Kingdom. 

The Court noted that since Sharif's lawyers failed to satisfy the bench, an appeal regarding the exemption of the former prime minister from the hearings was rejected. Earlier, the IHC had ordered Nawaz Sharif to surrender and appear on 10 September in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference. The Court had earlier rejected Sharif's plea seeking exemption from Court hearings and directed to initiate proceedings and declare Sharif a proclaimed offender. Sharif, stating medical reasons had earlier requested the Court and the IHC to nullify its ruling and allow him to become a part of the court proceedings through his representative. ("IHC directs govt to execute Nawaz Sharif's warrants through Pak HC in UK," The News International, 17 September 2020)

Editorial on Nawaz Sharif's return 
An editorial in the Dawn throws light on the crossroads that former PM Nawaz Sharif is at. The editorial says that Sharif has the choice of continuing to take refuge in London for medical reasons or to adhere to the issuance of a non-bailable warrant for his arrest by the IHC on Tuesday.

However, the mysterious medical grounds that Sharif resorts to paves way for wide speculation and has a debilitating effect on the personality that was in the making after he was brought down from power. Though PML-N leaders would voice out their support for their leader's right to avail the best medical treatment abroad, others would wonder why Sharif has not been in hospital undergoing treatment. The two choices finally narrow down to - he can continue with his narrative that he is being targeted as part of a selective accountability drive or he can pass on leadership to someone he believes to be capable. ("Comeback Formula," Dawn, 17 September 2020)

Al-Azizia case: Islamabad High Court temporarily disposes of Nawaz Sharif's appeal against the order
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) dismissed a petition of Nawaz Sharif seeking hearing of his approval on merit with respect to Al-Azizia case. The petition stated, "decision regarding the disposal of the appeal of the appellant on merit under Section 423 CrPC (criminal procedure code) shall be taken after the procedure for procuring the attendance of the appellant is completed." However, the dismissal is temporary as the IHC will start hearing appeals against the conviction of the former Prime Minister. Mr Sharif's counsel Khwaja Haris Ahmed had cited a number of judgements including the trial of General Pervez Musharraf where the judiciary granted him the right of an audience even after being declared as a proclaimed offender. Further hearing has been adjourned till 22 September. ("IHC disposes of Nawaz's appeal against order in Al-Azizia case, for now," Dawn, 17 September 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
A new terminal opened for trade with Afghanistan
Pakistan has opened yet another trade terminal for trade with Afghanistan at the border in Badini in Balochistan's Qila Saifullah district. Inaugurating the terminal, the Chief Minister Alyani, said that the terminal would boost economic activities which would generate employment opportunities for the local people. This development comes in after the business community had been demanding for a new terminal as the Chaman gateway was overburdened. (Saleem Shahid, "Another terminal for trade with Afghanistan opened," Dawn, 17 September 2020)

Are the Afghans, destined to lose? 
An opinion in the Express Tribune by Imran Jan argues the case and presents a grim picture on the lives of the ordinary Afghan population due to the policies of external powers in the country. The author talks about the outcome of a US withdrawal from the country which could unleash another wave of bloodshed. (Imran Jan, "Afghans – destined to lose," The Express Tribune, 17 September 2020) 

PAKISTAN'S WORLD VIEW
Palestine and Peace 
An editorial in the News International criticizes individual Arab nations being pressured into signing agreements with Washington to address the Palestinian question. It highlights the problem that just signing accords worked out by Washington, in cooperation with Israel, does not put an end to the suffering of Palestinians. It brings out the irony of such agreements, through an example - the same day that Bahrain signed an accord with the White House recognizing Israel, Israel fired 10 missiles into Palestine. 

It suggests forming an international panel, urging the UN and other nations to work together to ensure peace in the Middle East. ("Palestine and Peace"The News International, 17 September 2020)

China's national security strategy
An article by Inam ul Haque in The Express Tribune highlights China's national security strategy. He talks about China's NSS which fuses with aspects like population security, cultural, economic, political, science and technology security and many more. The author explains the various stages of the transformation in NSS. The first stage was the "One-side-Learning" strategy in the 1950s and 1960s followed by "the Double-Anti" strategy during the 1960s, "the Three-Worlds Strategy" of the early 1970s, "One-Line-One Large-Area" in the late 1970s and 80s and "Go Out Policy" since the 1990s. Mr Haque states that China's NSS today constitutes continued economic/military construction, international cooperation to oppose hegemony, improving ties with the West and others. (Inam ul Haque, "The construct of China's national security strategy,The Express Tribune, 17 September 2020)

"Pakistan needs to be closer to Russia", argues an analysis
An article written by FS Aijazuddin in the Dawn highlights the necessity for Pakistan to be closer to Russia. He gives a chronological picture of the relation between the two countries since 1947 when Pakistan had just gained independence while Russia was Soviet Union ruled by Stalin till the end of the Cold War which took place due to the disintegration of the communist nation. The author talks about the hostility that began with Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan snubbing Stalin's invitation to Moscow in 1949 and subsequently joining SEATO in 1954. The hostility was seen even when Pakistan fought major wars with India. Mr Aijazuddin mentions that Russia's rise under Vladimir Putin over 20 years was under-advertised and states that Pakistan has forged closer ties with Moscow ever since the latter took a conciliatory step by supporting its admission into the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). (FS Aijazuddin, "The fourth R," Dawn, 17 September 2020) 

 


"Although it [IHC’s decision] is against us, we respect it, as we respect all decisions of courts. Respecting the decision of the courts is a founding principle of our party"

-  Khawaja Asif, a senior leader of the PML-N on the Court's decision on Nawaz Sharif to issue a non-bailable warrant

 

 


A non-bailable arrest warrant for Nawaz Sharif:


Photo: Dawn



On 15 September, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued non-bailable arrest warrant for Nawaz Sharif while discharging his application seeking exemption from personal appearance in the hearing of appeals against his conviction in the Al-Azizia and Avenfield Properties reference. 

An IHC division bench issued a short order on the application and has adjourned further hearing of the matter till 22 September. Further, the court also rejected his request to allow him to be represented by a counsel in his absence, observing that he should be arrested and produced before the court. (Obaid Abrar Khan, "Court orders Nawaz's arrest," The News International, 16 September 2020)

The federal and Punjab governments did not try to verify the medical reports, argues Nawaz's lead counsel
Nawaz's lead counsel argued that the federal and Punjab governments who constituted a medical board to ascertain the condition of Nawaz recommended that he should go abroad after which the federal government removed his name from the exit control list (ECL). Further, he cited Nawaz's departure according to which the federal government was supposed to verify the medical reports. However, he argued that neither the federal government nor the Punjab authorities made efforts to verify the medical reports. Further, he said that Nawaz was stuck in London, and thus requested the court not to initiate the proceedings to declare him a proclaimed offender. 

NAB prosecutor argues that Nawaz be proclaimed an offender
On the other hand, the additional prosecutor general the National Accountability Bureau, argued that as per the settled law, an accused loses the audience the moment he absconds. He asked the court to initiate proceedings to declare Nawaz as a proclaimed offender since his bail had lapsed, and despite being convicted, he did not surrender. (Malik Asad, "Warrant out for Nawaz as excuses leave court unmoved," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

PML-N says Nawaz will return when his health permits
Reacting to the IHC's order the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Asif, in a press conference stated that, "although it [IHC's decision] is against us, we respect it, as we respect all decisions of courts. Respecting the decision of the courts is a founding principle of our party," adding, "the life of Nawaz Sharif is in danger and in the present circumstances he cannot suffer hardships of imprisonment. Once his health is stable he will definitely return to the country to face cases against him." (Syed Irfan Raza "Nawaz to return when his health permits: PML-N," Dawn, 16 September 2020) 

However, the government advised the ex-premier to adhere to the court orders and return to Pakistan from the United Kingdom to face cases against him. ("IHC decision to pave way for Nawaz's return: Fawad," The News International, 16 September 2020)

Earlier arguments
The IHC initially directed Nawaz "to surrender" and appear before the court by before the court on the 10 September against his conviction in the Al-Azizia reference. However, Nawaz's lead counsel argued that the high court had suspended the sentence awarded to the appellant and granted bail for eight weeks with the observation that if it was to be extended the same should be done by the Punjab government under Section 401(2) of the Criminal Procedure Code. Further, arguing that Nawaz could not return to the country due to the coronavirus pandemic with PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz stating that her father will get back as soon his treatment was over and only after the doctors give him a clean bill of health. ("Maryam Nawaz insists Nawaz Sharif to get back only after full treatment," The News International, 2 September 2020)

Later, on 9 September, Nawaz filed a review petition in the IHC stating that it was not possible for him to surrender in the Al-Azizia reference by 10 September urging the court to forgo the requirement. The petition was filed by Nawaz's lawyer who also submitted the latest medical reports signed a London-based consultant cardiothoracic surgeon. The petition noted that Nawaz's return to Pakistan at this current time may prove to be "fatal" added that all the medical reports which have been submitted show his inability to return to Pakistan. ("Nawaz tells IHC he cannot return and surrender," The News International, 9 September 2020)

Further, On 9 September, Judge Mohammad Azam Khan of the Accountability Court of Islamabad declared Nawaz Sharif as an offender in the Toshakhana vehicles reference over his continued absence from the proceedings. (Malik Asad, "Nawaz declared proclaimed offender," Dawn, 10 September 2020)

Media on Nawaz Sharif's return
An editorial in the News says Nawaz's mass appeal is unlikely to diminish which is why the govt should weigh its options carefully adding that what is to follow is going to impact Pakistan's politics and the future of a party. ("A flight home?," The News International, 3 September 2020) Another editorial in Dawn says that Nawaz should return and take command of an incapacitated opposition adding that he should accept the challenge and return to take command of an opposition that has been stuck in a rut. ("Time to come back," Dawn, 3 September 2020)

 
From the file. (Image Source: Dawn)

Despite the optimistic talk of projects in Balochistan, "there runs an undercurrent of local grievances".

Dawn has published a report (which appears to be a series) on the status of Balochistan. Written by Fahd Husain, the report comes in the wake of the Planning Minister Asad Umar's visit to southern Balochistan along with a high-level delegation for the preparation of the announcement of a major package by PM Imran Khan aimed at uplifting the "long-neglected and under-developed area". 

Husain argues that the Gwadar port is finally transforming into the originally envisioned project as districts are slowly returning to normalcy following years of insurgency and opines that the southern Balochistan, a region wearing "scars of state neglect" must soon be pulled into national mainstream. Stating that the progress on the Gwadar port has been low, Husain argues there is more focus today on expediating the port's development due to the rapid pace of the CPEC.

The three enablers: Security, energy and connectivity
Husain cites three enablers for the increase in growth of investment and shipping traffic: security, energy and connectivity. Presently, the military has designated two army divisions for CPEC's security. According to officials, another three years is required to achieve the targeted levels of these projects.

The local grievances
The report concludes with the undercurrents relating to local grievances endure. The fears of demographic alterations and rearrangements, unemployment, deprivation of rights persist. He argues that although the majority are "fanned by vested political interests, some are genuine enough to be addressed." He reiterates the officials' statements regarding the Gwadar Port Authority conducting vocational trainings for the local population to upgrade and match their skills to the requirements at the port and the Director-General of the Authority Asim Tiwana statement that the residents whose land had been procured for the purpose of the port had been "more than compensated". ("Balochistan Diary-I: Compensating for neglect," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

 
Imran Khan, a day earlier had called for tough punishments for the rapists (Image Source: The News)

In Brief 
INTERNAL

Responding to Imran Khan's suggestion: Public hanging is not a solution
An editorial in the Dawn has been critical of public hanging as an immediate or a long-term solution to any crime. Instead, it states that structural and procedural changes can serve its purpose. It has cautioned Prime Minister Imran Khan to not allow himself be carried away on the emotions of the public after the motorway gang rape incident last week. The editorial states that the spectacle of public hanging would include Pakistan among the most brutalized of societies. 

The editorial points at the Prime Minister's proposal that sex offenders be chemically castrated while stating that he has ignored the conviction rate is just three percentage. The editorial has been critical of the police investigations being defective and compromised which would perform when pressurized. It gives the example of one of the suspects with a history of being a "habitual rapist" who was earlier arrested for being involved in a gang rape in 2013 only to be released from custody. ("Public hanging is no remedy," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

Another editorial does a harsh self-reflection on society, misogyny and sexism
An editorial in the News International critical of the insensitive reactions after the gang-rape which took place on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway brings out the harsh realities that persist in the country. It states that the country remains to be a place where men mostly get away with rape, sexism and misogyny, where police are more worried about what time women step out of their homes, where those in power think 'moral decay' adds to offences such as rape and paedophilia and Where women will come and protest, but their voices will be drowned out by the over-zealous political point-scoring and opportunism dripping from every single political player.

The calls to violence are not the reaction of a people shaken, but that of a people so used to violence that even their grief and their fear and their empathy somehow find resolution in the act of hanging or lynching or castrating. Adding that the larger debate of violence against women, rape as a crime of power, women's place in an increasingly stifled and oppressive society, remains lost among these calls for death and moral righteousness. ("Appalling reactions," The News International, 16 September 2020)

Another journalist booked for propaganda against state institutions
Asad Ali Toor, a journalist based in Islamabad, has been booked on charges of maligning the institutions of the state through his social media posts. The complainant was a resident of Rawalpindi named Ehtisham Ahmed. Mr Toor has been booked under sections 505 (statements conducing to public mischief), 500 (punishment for defamation), 499 (Defamation). He was also charged under Pakistan Penal Code sections 37 (unlawful online content), 11 (hate speech) and 20 (offences against the dignity of a person) of the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act 2016. The latest development comes in the backdrop of journalists, Bilal Farooqi and Absar Alam being booked on similar charges on 11 September. ("Journalist Asad Ali Toor booked for 'maligning state institutions'," Express Tribune, 15 September 2020) 

ECONOMY
Manufacturing rebounds
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the large-scale manufacturing (LSM) output recorded a rebound, following months of suffering due to the Covid-19, and grew 5.02 per cent in July. Prior to the pandemic, "the LSM index returned to red after jumping by 9.66pc in December 2019"; due to an impressive 97 per cent surge in sugar production. The production declined due to the outbreak and recorded the steepest fall in LSM index of 24.8 per cent year-on-year in May. However, reflecting economic revival, the output grew by 9.54 per cent in outgoing July in comparison with June. ("Large-scale manufacturing rebounds by 5.02pc in July," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

On Rashakai Economic Zone and the industrial ambitions of Imran Khan                                     
An editorial in the Dawn has stated the problems in Pakistan's drive to become more industrialized in the backdrop of Prime Minister Imran unveiling the Rashakai Economic Zone. The editorial points that Pakistan has pinned hopes on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) where the government is expecting massive Chinese investments. It points at the experience of many countries where the development of industrial estates and incentives are never enough to attract investors. Even as Pakistan has come out with a legal framework through the SEZ Act of 2012 which was amended in 2016, the government has struggled to attract investors due to its inability to protect them from the state's institutions and law enforcement agencies. The editorial suggests that the SEZs must have a transparent policy where strict rules have to be made for the facilitation of businesses. ("Industrial ambitions," Dawn, 16 September 2020) 

ON INDIA
FO says the reference in the US-India joint statement is unwarranted
On 15 September, the Foreign Office rejected the "unwarranted references to Pakistan" by a joint statement of the US-India Counter-terrorism Joint Working Group and Designations Dialogue. It called the statement as "one-sided and divorced from ground realities". The FO said, "It is important that partner countries take an objective view of the issues of peace and security in South Asia and refrain from endorsing positions that are one-sided and divorced from ground realities". The office added that Islamabad has already conveyed its "serious concerns and rejection of the unacceptable reference to Pakistan in the aforementioned joint statement" to Washington. "The international community also recognizes Pakistan's efforts, sacrifices and successes in the fight against terrorism," it added.("Pakistan strongly rejects US-India joint statement as 'one-sided'," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

On Pakistan-India trade
An analysis in The Nation by Dr Kamal Monnoo states his perspectives on the trade relations between India and Pakistan. He mentions trade between the two countries which came to a halt when India imposed 200 pc custom duty on Pakistani imports on 16 February 2019 and Pakistan's decision to impose trade embargo in return on 9 August in the same year. He opines that economic relations cannot function in the state of a vacuum where countries need to cater to the demands of its populations. Dr Monnoo states that in the post-2008 financial crisis, countries have started shifting their focus to reviving the home industry, spurring domestic demand and creating jobs at home. He adds that India has the edge over the balance of trade with Pakistan, and in the current scenario, it is difficult to address the trust deficit as critical irritants have to be addressed. (Dr Kamal Monnoo, "Pakistan-India trade," The Nation, 16 September 2020)

Differences over the map at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation; Qureshi says India is losing credibility at international forums
Pakistan's Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security Moeed Yusuf tweeted after India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval objected to Pakistan's political map and walked out of the virtual meeting with his counterparts from Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on 15 September. Mr Yusuf said, "Bizarrely, my Indian counterpart chose to walk out of Pakistan and Russia's speech. Left a bad taste at a forum whose whole spirit is cooperation." ("Islamabad hails map triumph over Delhi at SCO," Dawn, 16 September 2020) A day later, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that India was losing credibility at international forums. ("India losing credibility at global forums: FM Qureshi," Dawn, 16 September 2020)

India's External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson was quoted to have said: "This was in blatant disregard to the advisory by the host against it and in violation of the norms of the meeting. After consultation with the host, the Indian side left the meeting in protest at that juncture." He also said: "As was to be expected, Pakistan then went on to present a misleading view of this meeting." ("India walks out of SCO meet of NSAs after Pakistan uses 'fictitious map'" The Mint, 15 September 2020

 


"Our strategic location and CPEC will pave the way for industrialisation...Our next phase is industrialisation. During the 60s, the nationalisation drive had affected the country’s economy and exports. The Chinese industry wanted to relocate and Pakistan offers a very attractive environment with complete incentivisation"

-  Imran Khan on CPEC.

 

 


The CPEC march continues:


Photo: Dawn



On 14 September, Pakistan and China signed a development agreement for the first Rashakai Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This agreement is part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor project (CPEC).

Imran Khan links CPEC with industrialization
While addressing the signing ceremony of 'Development Agreement of Rashakai Special Economic Zone' (RSEZ), Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that it was the government's top priority to provide jobs to the locals through the promotion of industrialization under the CPEC, being the next phase for progress and prosperity.

Further, referring to the strategic position of Pakistan in the wider regional connectivity with the Central Asian countries, he noted that the ML-1 would prove to be vital in the regional connectivity reducing travelling distance between different cities of the country manifold, adding that it would also enhance the cargo activities, ease of doing and cost of doing business. Further, he noted that the travel from Karachi to Lahore would also be reduced to eight hours and from Lahore to Rawalpindi and freight service would also immensely benefit from this.

On CPEC, he stated that they were advancing from communication linkage to industrialization growth through agreements, stating, "our next phase is industrialization. During the 60s, the nationalization drive had greatly impacted the country's economy and exports. However, nationalization halted it and then there was de-industrialization." Further, he said that Chinese industry was relocating to Pakistan mainly because of the cost of labour and the attractive environment with incentivizing them as well as the local industry. (Mumtaz Alvi, "Pak-China agreement on Rashakai SEZ signed," The News International, 15 September 2020)

The Rashakai SEZ to pave way establishing new zones
The Chairman Board of Investment (BOI) Atif Bokhari has stated that the signing of Rashakai SEZ agreement would help enhance the vision of special economic zones' development, which would lead to prosperous and industrial Pakistan. He also stated that substantial progress had been made on the project and the zones which are now ready for business. Further, adding that Pakistan's proximity with China would allow these SEZs to promote economic interdependence for mutual economic advantage. 

The Chairman CPEC Authority retired Lt Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa also reiterated that the Rashakai SEZ project would speed up the industrialization in Pakistan. ("Rashakai SEZ to speed up industrialization in Pakistan: Asim Bajwa," The News International, 14 September 2020)

The Rashakai SEZ: A short brief
Rashakai SEZ is to be developed under the public-private partnership model by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zone Development and Management Company (KPEZDMC) in collaboration with a state-owned Chinese enterprise, China Road & Bridge Corporation. The agreement is said to provide a road map for the establishment of an SEZ with the federal and provincial governments along with the developer jointly responsible for the development and successful the operations. A project of $128 million, spanning over 1000 acres, was awarded the SEZ status on 6 August 2019 and its concession agreement was signed in April 2019.

Rashakai SEZ is said to holds a unique competitive advantage due to its proximity to the first juncture of CPEC route as well as the significant resource and manufacturing base in the region. It is these factors that cause it to become one of the primary investment destinations for foreign investors, particularly Chinese investors who are looking to find new and cheaper markets to relocate their industrial base. Further, the BOI promoted the establishment of this SEZ with the intention to capitalize on investment inflow under the CPEC, inclusive economic development of KP province, creation of job opportunities, industrial development, and export generation in Pakistan. (Israr Khan, "Pakistan, China to ink Rashakai SEZ agreement today," The News International, 14 September 2020)

 
US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad meets Gen Bajwa in Islamabad . (Image Source: Dawn)

Pakistan claims ownership for Doha Talks

On 14 September, while talking to the US Special Representative for Afghan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad and his delegation who were visiting Pakistan, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa credited Prime Minister Imran Khan for Pakistan's role in commencing the intra-Afghan talks. Gen Bajwa said, "Prime Minister Imran Khan has given clear vision regarding peace and connectivity in the region and all elements of national power are united towards making that vision a reality to ensure long-awaited peace, progress and prosperity in the region."

Khalilzad in Islamabad: The immediate context
Mr Khalilzad's latest Pakistan visit comes in the wake of a day the long-delayed dialogue between the contending Afghan factions in Doha. The commencement of the talks was with a high-profile ceremony that was attended by the Afghan government, Taliban delegations, chairman of Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and senior diplomats from various countries. According to Dawn, during the ceremony, many European countries praised Islamabad for facilitating the peace process. So far, as per Taliban's political office spokesman Dr Mohammad Naeem, the Doha talks have focused on the principles and schedule for the upcoming meetings and are yet to begin discussions on contentious issues. Obtaining a ceasefire would likely be the biggest challenge to the dialogue.

Quotable
At the ceremony, Secretary Pompeo thanked Qatar for its support and said US "will never forget the solidarity of our many allies and partners who have stood with us in the long struggle to end this war". According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, Mr Khalilzad "greatly appreciated" Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process and said, "it could not have succeeded without Pakistan's sincere and unconditional support".

Islamabad claims to have facilitated the February agreement
The incumbent government of Pakistan claims to have facilitated the US-Taliban agreement concluded in February, got the intra-Afghan warring factions to observe a ceasefire on Eid and aided in circumventing the impasse over the release of prisoners which had been delaying the intra-Afghan dialogue; crucial for Afghan peace. ("Pakistan's efforts made Afghan talks possible, says Bajwa," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

Pakistani media on the Doha talks
An editorial in Dawn says: "Afghanistan is at a historic moment that can herald the long-awaited peace" and calls it "an opportunity for the United States to bring to an end its longest running war that has led to the death of thousands of people and the near destruction of Afghanistan." It credits Pakistan of playing a "very positive and constructive role" in the facilitation of the Afghan talks and states that it has garnered much appreciation from powers such as the US and the UK. It cautions that even a single incident of violence could derail the negotiations. The editorial opines that the return of peace to the war-ravaged state of Afghanistan would be beneficial to Pakistan. ("Afghan peace talks," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

Meanwhile, various articles speak of how violence has been continuing despite the peace talks in Doha.

 
Imran Khan calls for tough punishments for rapists (Image Source: The News)

In Brief 
INTERNAL
Imran Khan wants to chemically castrate the rapists 
On 14 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview stated, "They (rapists) should be given exemplary punishments. In my opinion, they should be hanged at the chowk (piazza)," adding that this punishment should be reserved for rapists and those who abuse children. 

Further, he stated that he was shocked to find out from the police that sexual assaults in the country were rising drastically. He also said that sexual crimes must be fought by the entire society, and not just police, stating, "World history tells when you increase fahashi (vulgarity) in the society, two things happen: sex crimes increase and the family system breaks down." The PM was making these statement in response to the motorway rape which has gone on to cause an outpouring of anger across the country and brought focus on sexual violence against women. ("Rapists should be publicly hanged or chemically castrated: PM Imran," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

Injustice is at its worst if the perpetrator happens to be powerful, socially or financially says Pakistan's Attorney General
On 14 September, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan critically stated that the country's criminal justice system favour of the perpetrators of a crime rather than the victims. The AG further remarked, "This injustice is at its worst if the perpetrator happens to be powerful, socially or financially." Further, the AG noted that female victims, whether a child or a mother, are particularly targeted and become victims of honour killing. The AG went on to highlight the delay in justice being delivered because often when in criminal matters lack of proper investigation and inadequate prosecution allows the perpetrators of crime to have the upper hand. Further, defective investigation and prosecution, lack of impartiality and arbitrariness help perpetrators pass themselves off as victims of a flawed accountability process. While makes these observations the AG stated, "It's time for serious collective introspection." (Nasir Iqbal, "Criminal justice system favours criminals over victims: AG," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

National Assembly holds discussions over important bills and ordinances
The National Assembly has extended the International Court of Justice (Review and Re-consideration) Ordinance meant to facilitate Kulbhushan Jadhav's file for an appeal against his conviction in a high court. The ordinance was set to expire on 17 September. It has also adopted motions seeking to refer two Financial Action Task-related bills, namely Anti-Money Laundering (Second Amendment) Bill and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Waqf Properties Bill, to the joint sitting of the Parliament for consideration and passage. The Cooperative Societies (Amendment) Bill, 2020 without sending it to the relevant standing committee after the rules were suspended. The National Assembly also debated over the recent gang-rape incident on the Lahore-Sialkot motorway and the controversial remarks on the rape victim by the Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO). (Iftikhar A Khan, "NA extends Jadhav-related ordinance for four months," Dawn, 15 September 2020)  

Educational institutions to reopen after six months
Pakistan is all set to reopen its educational institutes across the country from today. They are going to reopen in phases while ensuring compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to avoid the spread of coronavirus as per the decision of the inter-provincial education ministers' conference (IPEMC). On 14 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeted "Tomorrow we will welcome millions of children back to school. It is our priority and collective responsibility to ensure that every child can go to school safely to learn. We have worked to ensure that school operations are aligned with public health safety rules on COVID19." (Kashif Abbasi and Ikram Junaidi, "Educational institutions reopen today after six months," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

ON CPEC
CPEC to bring peace, prosperity to Balochistan: minister
Asad Umar, Federal Minister for Planning and Development, has said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will change the fate of not only Pakistan but also the entire region of Balochistan. He attended the media conference with Minister for Defence Production Zubaida Jalal where he gave his statement. 

The Prime Minister had hinted at a special package for southern Balochistan which officials estimated it to be around Rs 150 billion which would also cover Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Mr Umar mentioned that the previous governments did not contribute to the development which is currently being done by the PTI government. (Saleem Shahid, "CPEC to bring peace, prosperity to Balochistan: minister," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Increasing remittances
According to the data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on 14 September, the overseas workers' remittances in the first two months of the current fiscal year, FY2020-21 was recorded at $4.863 billion compared to $3.712bn in the congruent period of the previous fiscal year (a 31 per cent increase). PM Imran Khan tweeted "Overseas Pakistanis sent $2.95bn in remittances in August 2020 — 24.4pc higher than August last year — in addition to the record $2.768bn in July 2020. For the first two months of this fiscal year, our remittances are up 31pc over the same period last year. Alhamdulillah". However, a decline of 24 per cent to $2.095bn has been recorded in the month-on-month inflows in August compared to July ("Remittances up 31pc in July-August," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to strengthen ties
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to increase the frequency of bilateral visits for strengthening the strategic relationship on 14 September 2020. The resolve was expressed during a telephonic conversation between Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and his counterpart, Adel al-Jubeir. The Foreign Office spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri tweeted "Underscoring close Pak-Saudi fraternal ties, FM reaffirmed commitment to further enhance this strategic relationship. Two Ministers reviewed bilateral cooperation and agreed to intensify bilateral exchanges." ("Pakistan, S. Arabia to cement strategic ties," Dawn, 15 September 2020)

Pakistan requests India to share information about the deaths of Pakistani Hindus in Jodhpur
Pakistan summoned Indian Charge d'affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to register Islamabad's concerns over the incident in Jodhpur in which 11 Pakistani Hindus, including children, were found dead in Lodta Haridasot, Rajasthan on 9 August. It reiterated that in the interest of justice to the bereaved family and also to ensure the safety and security of other Pakistani nationals in India, it was important for the Government of India to cooperate on the details to be shared. Pakistan urged India to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the matter and to provide access to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi to visit the family. (Shafqat Ali, "Islamabad urges Delhi to share information about mysterious deaths of Pakistani Hindus," The Nation, 15 September 2020)

 


"Our strategic location and CPEC will pave the way for industrialisation...Our next phase is industrialisation. During the 60s, the nationalisation drive had affected the country’s economy and exports. The Chinese industry wanted to relocate and Pakistan offers a very attractive environment with complete incentivisation"

-  Imran Khan on CPEC.

 

 


Motorway Rape: Victim blaming, misogyny, corruption, administrative failures and the public outrage


Photo: Dawn



The incident and Responses 

On 2 September, a woman driving on the Lahore-Sialkot motorway along with her two children was gang rape after her car ran out of fuel and stalled. As she made frantic phone calls to get help, two men approached the family and forcibly took them to a nearby field at gunpoint. The men had raped the woman in the presence of her children and then went on to steal her money and jewellery before escaping. Further, reports also showed that the victim had called on the helpline of Motorway Police, but was denied assistance because the area in question was not covered by the Pakistan National Highway and Motorway Police. (Asif Chaudhry “Lahore motorway gang-rape causes outrage,” Dawn, 11 September 2020)

The news of the heinous crime went viral creating a public outrage. In response to the incident, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Accountability admitted to the government’s ‘administrative failure’ and stated that the culprits would be apprehended at all costs. However, on the other hand, Lahore CCPO Umar Sheikh unsympathetically took to blaming the victim while addressing the media, stating that the woman could have avoided being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Adding that she should have taken the more populated GT Road to Gujranwala instead of going via the motorway and that she ought to have checked how much fuel her car had before setting off. Further, he stated that women should be more responsible as assault is the ultimate fate of a woman travelling alone in our society. In response to the CCPO’s unhelpful response, civil society and human rights activists condemned the statements calling for his removal. (Xari Jalil, “‘Victim blaming’: Civil society, rights activists demand removal of Lahore CCPO,” Dawn, 11 September 2020)

Unacceptable attitude 

An editorial in the Dawn critical of the CCPO’s remarks states that his attitude is unacceptable. Adding condemnation towards the incident from individual members of the government is not enough rather there has to be a condemnation of the unprofessional conduct of the top official overseeing security in Lahore. Further, the editorial states that authorities should take note of the fact that the Pakistan National Highway and Motorway Police are unaware of who is responsible for policing the route where the assault took place, an issue which caused the woman’s call for assistance on the official helpline to be denied. The editorial called for the removal of the CCPO which will be the one way by which the government can show to the women of this country that there is hope for their security. (“Blaming the victim,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

An editorial in the News International states questioning the PTI government promised of a ‘new Pakistan’ and better Pakistan with a changed social order states that the CCPO ideally should be working alongside all other police officers to make a new society emerge, however, no efforts to achieve this has been made, leaving especially women and children in danger. Further, the editorial asks, Is the government so clueless about the damaging remarks made by the CCPO? Most women give up and all hope for justice, all the while being shamed, patronized, bullied into silence? (“Shameful conduct,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

Questioning the Official

Given that there have already been loud and clear demands for the removal of the CCPO who had already been in controversy even before the gang rape took place with both governments aware of his past performance and his reputation. Why did the federal government/Punjab government go ahead with the appointment knowing his dubious credentials as CCPO of Lahore?

An opinion by Fahd Husain in the Dawn critical of the federal and Punjab governments states that they are willing to overlook the tainted credentials, insubordination and his misogynistic mindset for what reasons? What was so intriguingly endearing that PTI was ready and willing to sack a very well reputed IG Punjab to retain the CCPO? It is something that cannot be acknowledged; something of so much value, and significance and importance that all the other devastating fallouts of this decision pale in comparison. Calling it the ‘Land of Disturbia’ where the victims and innocent are expected to recoil in guilt while the perpetuators and let to walk free, the situation just depicts the ‘sordid’ vividness across Punjab. (Fahd Husain, “Land of Disturbia,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

The role of an official and that of a woman in the same position

An opinion in the News International by Babar Sattar highlights the atomistic mindset which has emerged as a not just as a result of the patriarchal system but also due to the distinction between the roles and responsibilities of citizens and the state in their mutual contract backed by the constitution does not exist. This is where empathy based on sharing of concerns rooted in common identity comes in. the author explains this by highlighting the difference in responses from Shireen Mazari and Asad Umar’s response to the CCPO’s words. As a woman, Mazari understands the sense of fear or panic women feel in patriarchy which on the other hand Umar cannot. Further, asking had the CCPO of Lahore been a woman, would she have taken to victim blaming? Had the police investigators in rape cases be women, would starting point investigations be whether or not victims asked for it? The opinion most importantly highlights that representation of women in positions of authority is important because one cannot claim to be insightful and objective concerning things one cannot relate to. (Babar Sattar, “When outrage is not enough,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

Policing in the country has been politicised say CJP

On 11 September, the Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmad voiced worries over the law and order situation in the country and expressed concern this incident. The CJP called out the lack of security by the police, adding that the incident is shameful. Further, he added that the policing in the country had been politicised and as a result, life and property of people are not safe, in this regard he asked the government with vigilance, adding that maintaining law and order is a prime function of the government and in this regard, effective policing is indispensable. (“CJP asks govt to act sensibly: Punjab Police postings portray political interference,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

Barrister calls for urgent legislative intervention to safeguard homemakers

A barrister Asfand Yar Warraich’s article in the Pakistani daily Dawnspeaks of how Pakistan’s law and societal norms create “millions of women with nothing in their name”, who’s “right to the roof over their head becomes tied to three words alone: talaq, talaq and talaq”. The article asks why the woman’s endless labours are offhandedly dismissed by the law of the land while her husband is granted one of “the highest legal sanctions of the land — the inalienable right to property?” Asfand calls for equality and equity and an urgent legislative intervention to protect the homemakers of Pakistan opining that their labours don’t deserve mere “empty encouragement and medals of admiration, but something of material value, which allows them to stand on their feet, without crutch or support.”

Law of the Land

The barrister points out that according to Pakistan’s national laws, a husband is no longer mandated the pay maintenance to his wife once the marriage has been dissolved and the termination of marriage is as simple as the utterance of talaq, talaq, talaq verbatum. While the right of each to keep their individual property is absolute equality on paper, in reality that is not the case. The practice is shockingly unjust where the bread winner takes all, while the homemaker who meticulously slaved for its facilitation is left with close to nothing.

Sociocultural Milieu

Asfand identifies two fundamental sociocultural reasons that keep women from attaining property: first, the expectation that women must ‘sacrifice’ their personal inheritance for their male kin; and second, the ‘invisibility’ of the work undertaken by women round-the-clock inside the house. The barrister says the pride the country takes in its women for becoming and being homemakers is “a worthless sham” if they “can be kicked out of the very homes that they make”. (“With nothing in her name,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

In-Brief

INTERNAL

Discussion on FATF bills on 14th

An ‘informal’ committee comprising government and opposition lawmakers is likely to meet on 14 September to end a deadlock on four bills related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Earlier, a 24-member committee led by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi examined the bills before tabling them in both the houses of parliament for approval. The deadlock remains mainly over the issue of civil liberty that hindered the progress of the committee. Bills related to amendments to the Evacuee Properties and Cooperative Societies Act had almost been settled. However, there were differences on Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) and Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Pakistan has to submit a compliance report to FATF on 30 September. (Malik Asad, “Government-opposition body to discuss FATF bills on 14th,” Dawn, 12 September 2020) 

Journalist Bilal Farooqui arrested for posts ‘defaming’ the army

Bilal Farooqui, a journalist working for the Express Tribune was detained from his residence in Defence Housing Society by the police on 11 September. The developments were confirmed by the chief of Karachi police, Additional IG Ghulam Nabi Memon. A case has been registered against the journalist under sections 500 and 505 of the Pakistan Penal Code and sections 11 and 20 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016. The complainant, Javed Khan a resident of Majeed Colony, Landhi alleged that the posts on Facebook and Twitter by Mr Farooqui were highly objectionable as it defamed the Pakistan Army. The Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists have condemned the incident and demanded his immediate release. (“Journalist Bilal arrested for ‘objectionable’ posts,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

Disagreement between Pakistan and IMF over financing of budget deficit

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pakistani authorities are having divergent views over financing of the budget deficit for the current fiscal year as the Fund is asking for cutting down the budget deficit as well as the gross financing requirements. Apart from this, issues like hiking electricity tariff by 30 pc, erasing circular debt and enabling a plan to stop the accumulation of Rs 44.8 billion on a monthly basis. Structural and legal reforms such as autonomy to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), bringing amendments to Nepra and others are also major pending issues. Independent economists have argued that the fiscal situation was worsening that might result into surfacing of demand from the IMF for presenting a mini-budget. Instead, they have proposed that Imran Khan’s government should have convinced the IMF for allowing COVID-19 related spending of 2 to 2.5 pc of GDP without making it an addition to the budget deficit. (Mehtab Haidar, “Pakistan, IMF at loggerheads over financing of budget deficit,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

ECONOMY

Foreign investors are showing deep interest in Pakistan 

Sahibzada Jahangir, Prime Minister’s Spokesperson on Trade and Investment in the UK & Europe in an interview with the News stated, “By the grace of Allah, we have received a lot of interest in Pakistan and we hope that through his visionary leadership and global appeal, Prime Minister Imran Khan will change the future of Pakistan and at last the benefits and rewards will be felt by the poor masses in Pakistan.” Further, he added, “As per Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision for a prosperous Pakistan, I am presenting Pakistan as a suitable investment destination to the foreign investors. All the world financial institutions are displaying positive and favourable indications, declaring Pakistan safe and profitable destination for investment.” Presently, the country is drawing the attention of various foreign investors who are showing deep interest in Pakistan due to its multidimensional potential with investors such as Australian businessman Andrew Forrest expressing desire to invest tens of billions of dollars in Pakistan in Green Technology Projects. (Hamza Azhar Salam, “Foreign investors exploring opportunities in Pakistan,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

An opinion say that Pakistan continues to persist with a failed economic model

An opinion in the Express Tribune critical of the economic situation in the country says that one common feature of governments since 1977 was the IMF dictated economic model they followed. The opinion then highlights a column by Atif Mian, one of the world’s leading economists of Pakistani origin, who suggests three strategies which the government should adopt if it wanted to address the issue. First, strengthen Pakistan’s financial and regulatory authorities through the appointment of competent and reputable leadership and design governance rules to minimise political interference. Second, shift Pakistan’s growth policy from the failed import-led strategies towards policies that focus on raising domestic productivity growth and exports. Third, modernise the financial system to reduce the incidence of tax evasion and money laundering by moving the financial system towards a ‘cashless’ digital payment system that makes it easier to track and audit large financial transactions. (M Ziauddin, “Persisting with a failed economic model,” The Express Tribune, 12 September 2020)

EXTERNAL

Pakistan in the Middle East

In his article, Usama Shirazi talks of the enormous importance the Middle East region holds in Pakistan’s foreign policy due to historical linkages and geographical proximity. He writes, “Besides a political, economic, and strategic convergence, this region offers cultural, religious, and historical theatres to determine Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities.” The article says that the Riyadh-Tehran stride for regional supremacy has left Pakistan “little space to navigate” as the country has strong bilateral bonds with both the rivals; both relations of paramount value and of similar parity. It opines that the new alliance led by Turkey “makes the region volatile and compels Pakistan to navigate smartly is the new alliance”. However, “the mounting conflicting dynamics are narrowing diplomatic space for Pakistan,” he adds. (“Navigating the Middle East,” The Nation,12 September 2020)

Pakistan seeks relief over fine imposed in Reko Diq lease case

Pakistan is seeking a reversal of a $5.8 billion fine imposed by an international tribune for denying a lease to an Australian company to mine Reqo Diq in Balochistan. Earlier, the mining lease was offered to Tethyan Copper Corp (TCC). Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government had said that Req Dia is a strategic national asset, although it is anticipated that the mining project has more costs than benefits for Pakistan. According to the details available on Tethyan’s website, the mining project at Reko Diq was to build and operate a world class copper-gold open-pit mine at the cost of $3.3 billion. The TCC was given a lease by the Balochistan government as per its 1998 agreement. The project was stalled in 2011 by the provincial government on grounds of non-transparency. This case is testing PM Imran Khan’s ability to utilise the back channel diplomacy to settle disputes and lure more foreign investors. (“Pakistan seeks relief over $5.8 billion fine in Reko Diq lease case,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

Hundreds of illegal Pakistani migrants deported by Iran

Iran has deported as many as 1,000 Pakistani citizens who were arrested and deported by authorities through the Taftan border in Chagai district. The Iranian authorities have handed over 200 migrants each day between 6 and 10 September this week. Majority of the illegal migrants, mainly from Punjab, tried to reach European countries via Iran without having valid documents. The officials added that the migrants take an advantage of the rugged terrain along the border with the help of organised human traffickers. The human trafficking has intensified as smugglers are using the Quetta-Taftan RCD highway to transport the illegal migrants. (Ali Raza Rind, “Iran deports hundreds of illegal Pakistani migrants,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

The United Nations resolutions can never become outdated by events or changed circumstances says an opinion

An opinion in the Nation critical of India’s Ambassador to the United Nations, T S Tirumurti remarks to take off the “outdated agenda item” of the “India-Pakistan question’’, from the Council states that the mere passage of time or moving away from realities cannot alter the fact that these resolutions remain unimplemented. Further, stating that if the passage of time were allowed to international agreements to become outdated, then the United Nations Charter should suffer the same fate as the resolutions on Kashmir. Further, the editorial concluded by stating that it hopes that the world powers and the United Nations lend support towards initiating a peace process which will lead to a speedy, just and honourable settlement of the dispute and restore to the people of Kashmir their inalienable right to self-determination. (Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, “Kashmir and the United Nations Security Council,” The Nation, 12 September 2020)

Pakistan welcomes the commencement of the intra-Afghan dialogue

Prime Minister Imran Khan welcomed the launch of intra-Afghan talks stating that Pakistan has fulfilled its commitment and it is now for the Afghans to work towards peace through negotiated settlement. The dialogue between the rival Afghan factions is set to begin today in Doha, Qatar after there were delays in releasing prisoners. The Afghan government is represented by 21 members led by Masoom Stanekzai while the Taliban is led by Sheikh Hakim Haqqani, a close confidant of the group’s chief Maulvi Hibatullah Akhunzada. The dialogue will be witnessed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah and Afghan Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar. The latest developments have been welcomed as ‘historic’ by many world leaders, including US President Donald Trump. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Seize ‘historic moment’, Pakistan tells Kabul, Taliban,” Dawn, 12 September 2020)

Mr Imran Khan said, “For more than 40 years, Afghans have suffered from continued conflict and bloodshed. Pakistan has endured the fallout – reflected in incidence of terrorism, loss of precious lives, and huge economic cost.” He reiterated that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and emphasized that there was no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan and the only way forward is through a negotiated political settlement. (Mumtaz Alvi, “Afghans, Pakistanis suffered so much: Time to honour pledges, says PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 12 September 2020)

 


Pakistan and the SCO


Photo: Dawn



On 10 September, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi spoke at the meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers. He recognized the SCO as a vital platform to help synergize regional partners given the increasing union between Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Eurasian Economic Union. Further, expressed support on Pakistan's membership of the SCO Youth Council, stating that for over the past 20 years, the SCO had grown in stature, prestige and influence.

He also requested that all the SCO members work together to address the resurgence of fascist ideologies and violent nationalism, especially in the region. Further, he remarked that members should work collectively to pushing the SCO towards becoming an effective forum for regional development and a new kind of international organization based on the ideals of Shanghai spirit. Further, he reiterated Pakistan support of the SCO's emphasis on the central role of the United Nations in maintaining peace and security.

On the SCO sidelines
Qureshi reiterates Pakistan's commitment to "One China" policy

On the sidelines, Foreign Minister Qureshi while meeting his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi has reiterated that Pakistan remained committed to "One China" policy and stood firmly behind China on core issues of its national interest. This was his second meeting in a matter of three weeks with the Chinese Minister. Further, during the meeting, bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest were also discussed. ("Islamabad favours 'One China' policy, Qureshi tells Chinese FM," Dawn, 11 September 2020)

CPEC complements SCO's vision of regional connectivity
FM Qureshi also stated that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the flagship project of the One Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) supplement the SCO's vision of regional connectivity and economic integration. He added: "We should not view development projects, including BRI and CPEC, through myopic geopolitical angles and should give them our full support." ("CPEC supplements SCO's vision of regional connectivity: FM Qureshi," The Express Tribune, 10 September 2020)

"Russia is an important partner."
While meeting with Russian FM Sergei Lavrov, he stated that Pakistan considers Russia as an important partner, and wanted to forge a long-term and multi-dimensional partnership with it, further, FM Lavrov welcomed Pakistan's participation in the forthcoming Kavkaz military exercise which is scheduled for this month. ("Qureshi meets Putin, Tajik FM in Moscow," The News International, 9 September 2020)

Pakistan and the SCO: A brief note 
FM Qureshi arrived in Moscow on a two-day visit to participate in the SCO-CFM. The CFM is the highest forum of the SCO after the Council of Heads of State (CHS) and the Council of Heads of Government (CHG). The Moscow SCO-CFM was to consider 20 documents for adoption in the SCO Summit. Further, since becoming a member in 2017, Pakistan has been an active member in contributing towards making an SCO's multi-sectoral agenda through participation in various SCO mechanisms. (Kamran Yousaf, "FM embarks on Moscow trip for SCO moot amid regional tensions," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2020)

 
Chaman crossing (Image Source: Dawn)

 

Pakistan on developments in Kabul and Doha
On 10 September, Pakistan military spokesman Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar pledged to defeat 'spoilers' labouring to sabotage the upcoming intra-Afghan dialogue. The General tweeted: "Unfortunate rise in violent incidents on both sides of Pak-Afghan border is meant to derail Afghanistan Peace Pro­cess. Pakistan earnestly believes that both countries deserve peace and progress. Together we will defeat all spoilers". Meanwhile, at a weekly media briefing in the Foreign Office, spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said intra-Afghan talks must deliver "durable peace in Afghanistan" by achieving "an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement". ("Pakistan vows to defeat Afghan talks' spoilers'," Dawn, 11 September 2020)

The immediate context
The General's statement came in the wake of the commencement of the long-awaited intra-Afghan process and the associated release of the final group of six "dangerous" Taliban prisoners by Afghanistan's government. They were later flown to Doha, Qatar where until the end of November they would remain under supervision. Meanwhile, Kabul's negotiating team would fly to Doha on 11 September for the talks with the Taliban. The record spike in violence in Afghanistan, ahead of the talks, has made the international backers of the talks wary. With the Taliban denying involvement on attack on Afghan First Vice President Amrullah Saleh's convoy which killed 10 people, Pakistan has blamed the "spoilers".

Upcoming events
According to Taliban spokesman Dr Mohammad Naeem the negotiations will be held on 12 September. He tweeted, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announces its readiness to attend the inaugural meeting of the Inter-Afghan Dialogue in accordance with the agreement reached between the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the United States of America". ("Intra-Afghan peace talks set to begin in Doha," Dawn, 11 September 2020)

Media Opines
With the Taliban-Afghan talks around the corner, Pakistan's national media has been exploding with a wide range of articles on the upcoming event. The topics have covered the presence of women negotiators at the talks, governmental and non-governmental "spoilers", statements by heads of states and lauding of Pakistan's role in the peace process. Maleeha Lodhi had earlier identified the pandemic and the clashing interests of Afghan parties as to the reasons for the impasse experienced by the intra-Afghan dialogue. However, she argued that with the return of the US troops from Afghanistan gaining priority due to the upcoming elections, the peace talks were crucial. She further opined that intra-Afghan uncertainties posed a significant threat to Pakistan. ("Troubled Afghan peace process," Dawn, 4 September 2020) 

In his opinion article, Zahid Hussain stated that the face-to-face dialogue between the Kabul officials and the Taliban representatives would be the most crucial part of the two-decades-long faltering Afghan peace process. He said that political transition would not be easy. Hussain argued that for most Afghans, even a power-sharing agreement with the Taliban was disconcerting. He emphasized that although the Taliban political leadership appears to be more moderate and flexible while speaking of a pluralistic and inclusive political system, "mere words are not enough" and called for a "political solution to the festering Afghan conflict". ("Intra-Afghan peace talks," Dawn, 12 August 2020)

 
Gen Bajwa wants to enhance "combat readiness levels in the wake of evolving strategic and regional milieu" (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 
INTERNAL

Islamabad High Court says that Nawaz Sharif will have to surrender before further proceedings
On 10 September, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) agreed with the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) demands that Nawaz's bail should be cancelled and his arrest should be allowed. Further, the two-judge bench questioned the petition: "In the last hearing, the matter was only related to the term of the bail (granted to Nawaz). Now, he has been declared a proclaimed offender by a court," adding "Can we hear Nawaz Sharif's petition after him being declared a proclaimed offender." Further, the bench stated, "We are not saying that we are rejecting the petition or not listening to anyone. (But) tell us if your new petition can be heard or not?" The hearing has been adjourned till 15 September. ("Nawaz Sharif will have to surrender before further proceedings: IHC," The News International, 11 September 2020) 

Further, the court has given Nawaz's counsel a week to justify pleading the case of an absconder in the light of jurisprudence. (Malik Asad, "Nawaz lawyer gets week to justify arguing case of absconder," Dawn, 11 September 2020)

An editorial in the News International critical of where the accountability question stands regarding the case states that given the development it looks like the political opposition remains the main target. Further, the editorial also highlights the operational capabilities of PML-N without Nawaz and Maryam Nawaz. The editorial concludes by bringing out the importance of fair and transparent accountability stating that it hopes that this process is undertaken with no aspect of victimization and that all accountability attempts are transparent and free of any kind of vendetta. ("Accountability for Nawaz," The News International, 11 September 2020)

A scathing review of the ICJ report
An editorial on 11 September has highlighted the critical review of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) on the functioning of the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances (COIED). In a paper titled "Entrenching Impunity, Denying Redness", the document has noted that the COIED has focused solely on determining the whereabouts of the missing, in which it has been successful to some extent. Around 4,642 cases out of 6,752 have been "disposed". But the commission has neglected its mandate to fix responsibility on individuals or organizations responsible". As a result, the ICJ has recommended not to extend the mandate given to COIED beyond 14 September.
The editorial has highlighted the criticism of ICJ on the definition of 'enforced disappearances' in the commission's regulations which they believe is inconsistent to the international definition. The ICJ continues to highlight the commission's lack of structural independence which weakens the purpose. The editorial points at the chairman of the commission retired Justice Javed Iqbal who has been controversial on a number of instances which included denouncing the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for its violation of fundamental rights and pursuit of political vendetta. ("ICJ's scathing review," Dawn, 11 September 2020) 

An Opinion analyses the impact of Climate Change for Pakistan. Says consequences are manifold
The article by Saleem Safi opines that despite Karachi being the commercial hub and financial capital of Pakistan and a vibrant city that contributes significantly to the country's prosperity, Karachi has obtained nothing in return. Furthermore, it has become the victim of man-made disasters due to "myopic policies, dangerous political designs, ethnic tussles, administrative incompetence and negligence". Safi says that the city that has been the centre of the recent Center-Province blame-game has become the hub of hatred and terror; and has been divided into sectarian and ethnic lines. The article looks at how Karachi has been plundered and looted by various parties. He says that climate change is the mother of all problems of the 21stcentury and that Pakistan will have multiple consequences: first, continuous drought or sudden heavy rainfall; second, crop destruction and changing pattern of annual weather; third, the melting of glaciers in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral; fourth, Pakistan being in the most dangerous zone would be exposed to severe climate change impacts. ("Climate change and Pakistan," The News International, 11 September 2020) 

Another editorial says that "problems emanating from population explosion will have social, political impacts for both the developing and developed," which includes Pakistan. The Ecological Threat Register of the Institute for Economics and Peace assesses food insecurity; water shortage; population growth; and natural disasters, including floods, droughts, cyclones, rising sea level and rising temperature as issues that would challenge South Asian countries due to the climate changes. ("Impacts of climate change," The Express Tribune, 11 September 2020)

Prime Minister rejects criticism of dual nationals holding public office
Imran Khan expressed his displeasure over criticism of dual nationals holding public office on 10 September. He stated that there is a need to tap into the "resource pool" of Pakistani experts and professionals living abroad. The statement was made while launching the Roshan Pakistan Digital Account, a facility that would provide banking solutions to millions of non-resident Pakistanis. The Prime Minister recalled the opportunity created for overseas Pakistani experts when he established Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital. These developments came in after the government received criticism for the reason that the status and assets of dual nationality of all non-elected cabinet ministers and advisors were made public. (Syed Irfan Raza, "PM rejects criticism of dual nationals holding public office," Dawn, 11 September 2020)  

ECONOMY
On FDI: Pakistan remains a challenging environment for foreign investors says an Editorial
An editorial in the Express Tribune critically states that although the government has been opened to foreign investment, Pakistan remains a challenging environment for foreign investors. The editorial claims that while the pandemic has negatively impacted government target for FDI, historically, the country has always been a poor performer when attracting foreign investment. The main reasons for this are the unpredictable security situation, difficult business climate, lengthy dispute resolution processes, poor enforcement as regards intellectual property rights, inconsistent taxation policies, and lack of harmonization of rules across the provinces as compared to regional competitors. The editorial concludes by stating although the country's economic outlook does look uncertain what the country should do is to work on fundamentals for making the overall domestic environment attractive for foreign investors. ("Attracting FDI," The News International, 10 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Uzbekistan's Deputy Prime Minister calls on PM Imran Khan and General Bajwa
Prime Minister Imran had expressed hope that the intra-Afghan negotiations would commence at the earliest and conclude in a negotiated political settlement during a meeting with Uzbekistan's Deputy Prime Minister Sardor Umurzaqov. The meeting covered matters of mutual interest like the Covid-19 pandemic, regional connectivity, regional peace and security. Mr Khan had stated that there is no military solution for peace in Afghanistan and highlighted Pakistan's contribution to the Afghan peace process. He added that Pakistan and Uzbekistan share a cordial relationship and recalled his last meeting with President Mirziyoyev. He highlighted the potential for enhanced trade cooperation as a result of planned railway projects. Mr Umurzaqov expressed Uzbekistan's desire to strengthen economic relations. He then called General Qamar Javed Bajwa and complimented on the Pakistan Army's contributions for peace and stability in the region. ("Uzbek deputy PM calls on PM Imran Khan, General Qamar Javed Bajwa," The News International, 11 September 2020)

On India
Pakistan's Kashmir policy has become "a rhetorical, symbolic, and misadventure prone imperative says a former Pakistan High Commissioner
An opinion written by Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, former ambassador to the US, India and China says: "Pakistan's foreign policy, largely conceived, articulated and advocated by world-class diplomats, fell short because of the country's abysmal domestic and externally governed governance.

Once progressive national transformation was ruled out by the national power and political structures, the force of Pakistan's legal, political, diplomatic and moral arguments on behalf of the Kashmiri right of self-determination diminished, and no longer constrained the economic, political and strategic inclinations of the big powers in support of India – with the exception of China." (Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, "The Kashmir Challenge," The News International, 11 September 2020)

India's response still awaited in Jadhav case, says minister
Law Minister Dr Farogh Naseem said that Pakistan is waiting for an Indian response in appointing a legal representative in a review and reconsideration petition before the Islamabad High Court against the conviction by a military court of Kulbhushan Jadhav. Dr Naseem said: "Pakistan is neither a banana republic nor a rogue state and wants to comply (with) all international laws as well as the 17 July, 2019 verdict of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)." On 3 August, the IHC provided an opportunity for India to appoint a legal counsel to defend Jadhav. Dr Naseem explained that though the judgement of the ICJ was not binding, it has avoidable consequences where India could press contempt charges against Pakistan or exert influence to take the issue to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) seeking sanctions against Pakistan. (Nasir Iqbal, "Indian response still awaited in Jadhav case, says minister," Dawn, 11 September 2020) 

Pakistan will not accept any unreasonable demand by India on Jadhav case: Foreign Office
Foreign Office spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhry speaking at a weekly news briefing said that Kashmir was the key issue between India and Pakistan. He added, "India can get the Jammu and Kashmir dispute off the United Nations Security Council agenda by letting Kashmiris exercise their inalienable right to self-determination through a free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices." Mr Chaudhry said that the international community must play a role in forcing India to comply with obligations under international law, the UN Charter and the UNSC resolutions. He further criticized the comments made by India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat against Pakistan stating that the ideology of the Indian government has forced its institutions to obsess with Pakistan. Mr Chaudhry responded to a question on Kulbhushan Jadhav's case by saying that Pakistan will never accept any unreasonable demand by India on Jadhav case and asked its neighbour to cooperate with Pakistani courts. He reiterated that Pakistan was committed to the implementation of the IHC judgement. (Shafqat Ali, "Pakistan will never accept any 'unreasonable demand' by India on Jadhav case: FO," The Nation, 11 September 2020)   

 


"Unfortunate rise in violent incidents on both sides of Pak-Afghan border is meant to derail Afghanistan Peace Pro­cess. Pakistan earnestly belie­ves that both countries deserve peace and progress. Together we will defeat all spoilers"

-  Tweet by the military spokesman Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar on Afghanistan

 

 


Accountability Court declares Nawaz Sharif as an absconder


Photo: Dawn



On 9 September, Judge Mohammad Azam Khan of the Accountability Court of Islamabad declared Nawaz Sharif as an offender in the Toshakhana vehicles reference over his continued absence from the proceedings. The court also initiated the process to confiscate his properties and directed the investigation officers to submit details of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader’s moveable and immoveable properties within seven days. The court also directed the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to make his arrest through Interpol while dismissing his application seeking exemption from personal appearance. Further, the accountability court indicted Asif Ali Zardari and Yusuf Raza Gilani as well. The hearing has been adjourned until 24 September. (Malik Asad, “Nawaz declared proclaimed offender,” Dawn, 10 September 2020)

Quotable
The court order stated, “Statement of the investigation officer clearly established that accused namely Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif is intentionally avoiding, absconding and concealing himself from the process of law,” adding “hence, this case is hereby separated…and he is declared as a proclaimed offender.”

The context for the Toshakhana reference
In March, NAB had filed a reference with the accountability court against Nawaz on the alleged violation of the rules of the Toshakhana which it argued had caused a heavy loss to the national exchequer. Further, the anti-graft body stated that “through dishonest and illegal means for their personal benefit and interest” Nawaz and Zardari had retained the vehicles in question “against a nominal payment of 15 percent of their total value.”

Further, the charge sheet accused Gillani of issuing directions to the cabinet division secretary to forward a summary for relaxation of prescribed procedure in favour of accused Nawaz and Zardari for disposing of the luxury vehicles. (Obaid Abrar Khan, “Toshakhana case: Zardari, Yusuf Raza Gilani indicted, Nawaz Sharif declared absconder,” The News International, 10 September 2020)

 
 File Photo. Nawaz Sharif in London (Image Source: Daily Times)

Nawaz files a petition urging the IHC to ‘forgo’ the requirement of his surrender 
On 9 September, Nawaz filed a review petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) stating that it was not possible for him to surrender in the Al-Azizia reference by 10 September urging the court to forgo the requirement. The petition was filed by Nawaz's lawyer who also submitted the latest medical reports signed a London-based consultant cardiothoracic surgeon. The petition noted that Nawaz's return to Pakistan at this current time may prove to be “fatal” added that all the medical reports which have been submitted show his inability to return to Pakistan. The IHC division bench is to take up the application on 10 September (today). (“Nawaz tells IHC he cannot return and surrender,” The News International, 9 September 2020)

Further, Nawaz’s lawyer stated, “the fact of the matter is that [Nawaz] is still suffering from multiple co-morbities [and] his treatment in London has been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic,” adding that “as a result, [Nawaz] has not been able to regain his health and all the doctors that have treated him in the past, as well as those who have been treating him since he arrived in London, have strongly advised him not to travel to Pakistan without getting his treatment done.” (Tahir Naseer, “Nawaz urges IHC to 'forgo' requirement for his surrender in Al-Azizia reference,” The News International, 9 September 2020)

The context for the Al-Azizia reference
On 1 September, IHC Nawaz “to surrender” and appear before the court by 10 September, if not he would have to face legal proceedings for absconding. During the hearing, Justice Farooq stated, “we are not declaring Nawaz an absconder at the moment. But how can the appeal be heard in his absence?” adding that the court was giving him “one more chance to surrender” adding, "We are not taking a final decision as yet.” Further, a division bench of the high court comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Aamer Farooq directed the deputy attorney general to verify the medical condition of Sharif through the Pakistani High Commission in London. (Tahir Naseer, “IHC tells Nawaz to 'surrender', appear before court on Sept 10,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

This order came as the bench was hearing the appeals of Nawaz, his daughter Maryam and her husband, Safdar, against their convictions in the Avenfield reference. The bench also heard an appeal filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) against Sharif's acquittal in the Flagship reference as well as appeals against his conviction in the Al-Azizia reference. (Malik Asad, Atika Rehman, “Nawaz’s sojourn in London may end soon,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

The Controversy
In 2019, Nawaz had left for London after the Lahore High Court permitted him to go abroad for his treatment and was to return within four weeks or as soon as he was declared healthy and fit to travel by doctors. He was also given bail in the Al-Azizia Mills corruption case in which he was serving a seven-year prison sentence in Kot Lakhpat Jail, Lahore before he left for London.

However, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Accountability and Interior Shahzad Akbar stated that Nawaz's four-week bail on medical grounds expired in December 2019 and the government had already approached the UK government for his extradition. Further, earlier this year a picture of Nawaz having tea at a London cafe along with his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on the seriousness of his health condition. Later, photos surfaced online, showing him strolling in a street causing the government to come under pressure with calls being instigated from within the ruling PTI to bring him back.

In this regard, Prime Minister Imran Khan directed the use of all legal means to bring Nawaz back from the UK adding that it was the responsibility of the government to bring back all those wanted by the courts. He added that that allowing him to leave the country was a “mistake” and that his government “regretted” this decision. (“Allowing Nawaz to leave was a 'mistake', says PM Imran,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

 
Gen Bajwa wants to enhance "combat readiness levels in the wake of evolving strategic and regional milieu" (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 
INTERNAL
COAS calls for higher troop combat readiness
On 9 September, Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa ordered troops to boost combat readiness. He said this was considering the regional security environment and to ensure closer ‘synchronisation’ with government policies to win the fifth-generation war being faced by Pakistan. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations’ (ISPR) statement the “COAS stressed upon the need to enhance combat readiness levels in the wake of evolving strategic and regional milieu”. The COAS was chairing the meeting the corps commanders’ conference held at the General Headquarters; a monthly meeting to review operational matters and the security situation. Principal staff officers and the corps commanders were in attendance. (“COAS orders troops to boost combat readiness,” Dawn, 10 September 2020)

Pakistan Railways will invite bids for a CPEC project. However, only Chinese firms would be eligible for the bidding, says Dawn
According to Dawn, Pakistan Railways is looking to invite bids to tender for the Pakistan’s first and biggest transport sector project —Main Line-1 (ML-1) — starting from 12 September. The article claims that bidding documents have been prepared and that the “completion of USD 6.8 billion project titled “Up-gradation of ML-1” has been divided into three separate packages —Nawabshah to Rohri / Sukkar, Multan to Lahore & Walton Academy and Lahore to Lalamusa & Kaluwal to Pindora sections”. Dawn says the “invitation for bids simply says the “project will be funded under CPEC financing arrangement through loan from Chinese Financial Institutions and partly funded by Government of Pakistan. Under the framework agreement signed between People’s Republic of China and the Government of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, only Chinese companies / consortia are eligible to participate in the bidding process, the invitation reads. The PR has also set a deadline of October 22 for submission of bids for the project”. (“Railways to invite bids for $6.8bn ML-1 CPEC project,” Dawn, 10 September 2020)

Pakistan continues to be a ‘challenging environment’ for foreign investors, says US-based report
According to the Investment Climate Statements for 2020, despite having a relatively open foreign investment regime, Pakistan remains a challenging environment for foreign investors. The report said that Pakistan had made “significant progress over the last year in transitioning to a market-determined exchange rate and reversing its large current account deficit, while inflation has decreased each month of 2020”. The report said that due to Pakistan’s payments crisis, the incumbent government had to focus on the immediate needs and acquire external financing through the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Fund Facility in July 2019, instead of working on long-term structural reforms. (“Pakistan remains ‘challenging environment’ for FDI,” The Express Tribune,10 September 2020)

Dawn’s Red Zone Files offers ten quick takeaways
The article by Fahd Husain offers ten takeaways: the PTI’s confidence due to the ‘same page’ cliché with the Establishment; the failure of PML-N, PPP and JUI-F to form ties with the Establishment however in vain; the quiet understanding within the system regarding the need to respect the five-year term of the incumbent government for economic revival; the All Parties’ Conference’s struggle for purpose; the relentless pressure on ‘accountability’ will continue; the FATF-related talks would resume soon; the problem of PTI’s continued mishandling of the Punjab province; PTI and PML-Q strife; Prime Minister Imran Khan’s distractions due to unnecessary micro-management; and finally, the continued simmering of the internal debates on the 18thAmendment. PTI’s relationship with the Establishment is safe, hence PTI’s confidence. However, the other parties are attempting to reach an understanding with the Establishment which is yet to happen. (“RED ZONE FILES: State of the union,” Dawn, 10 September 2020)

PROVINCES
Asad Umar calls asks Sindh government to submit updated feasibility study
On 9 September, the Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar directed Sindh’s provincial government to submit an updated feasibility report of the Greater Karachi Water Supply Project (K-IV) in order to immediately proceed. He opined that the on-going Center-Sindh blame game would only worsen the struggles of the victims in Karachi; which would further lead to Karachi’s citizens thrashing both the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). During a press meeting, he said “This politics will not work, these dramas, press conferences, and counter press conferences; if both PTI and PPP will continue like this, the people of Karachi are going to hurl shoes at both of us”. (“Minister says work on Karachi plan should start without delay,” Dawn, 10 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Editorial says Pakistan is gaining momentum within SCO
The Editorial says the opportunity to convene meetings with regional counterparts on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting would be one of the more fruitful outcomes of the Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s visit to Moscow. it opines that US-China trade wars, tariffs and threats of sanctions have pushed Beijing further into Moscow’s side over the last four years. It says that with the increasing inefficiency of organisations like the United Nations, the SCO gains more relevance. The editorial also argues that recently Pakistan has been gaining respect and importance within the SCO. (“FM in Moscow,” Daily Times,10 September 2020)

Pakistan and UAE sign MoU to curb money laundering and financial crimes
On 9 September, Pakistan and the UAE concluded an agreement to combat money laundering and terror financing. As per the memorandum of understanding (MoU), the UAE’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and Pakistan’s Financial Monitoring Unit would exchange information to enhance cooperation. Pakistani Ambassador to the UAE Ghulam Dastagir and Ali Faisal Ba’Alawi, the acting chief of the UAE’s FIU were signatories to the MoU. Speaking at the occasion, Dastagir said the development would help curb money laundering and other financial crimes. He said “The signing the MoU reflects the strong commitment of the Pakistani government to enhance cooperation with the international community to combat money laundering and terrorism financing”. Ba’Alawi described the agreement as a reflection of "the strong and deep relations between the UAE and Pakistan". (“Pakistan, UAE sign anti-money laundering pact,” The Express Tribune,10 September 2020)

Despite scholarship 132 Pakistani students sent abroad did not return and 106 HEC research projects remained incomplete, says PAC
The Public Accounts Committee’s (PAC) sub-committee learnt that despite funding by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), close to 106 research projects across various universities remained incomplete after over a decade. Alam Khan, the committee’s convener directed HEC to submit records of the incomplete research projects to the audit officials. The HEC Chairman Tariq Banuri from absent from the meeting. Khan enquired about his absence with the HEC Executive Director (ED) Lt Gen (retd) Muhammad Asghar. According to the audit report, the committee reviewed the audit paras of HEC. As per the audit report, of the different funds issued to various universities by the HEC, 106 projects of 583 remained incomplete after 14 years. (“132 Pakistani students sent abroad on scholarship didn't return,” The Express Tribune,10 September 2020)

 


"Statement of the investigation officer clearly established that accused namely Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif is intentionally avoiding, absconding and concealing himself from the process of law...hence, this case is hereby separated…and he is declared as a proclaimed offender"

-  An accountability court on the Toshakhana vehicles reference

 

 


Federal-Provincial divide over Karachi increases


Photo: Dawn



On 8 September, during a press conference following the cabinet meeting, Information Minister Shibli Faraz said: "We cannot give even a penny to Sindh for the flood victims unless we are told about the exact losses". The federal cabinet has decided to not release funds directly to Sindh's provincial government for the victims of the recent floods and rains of unprecedented magnitude. The Center has instead decided to utilize the funds by itself. This may worsen the ongoing rift between the Centre and Sindh. 

Brief Background
Previously, Prime Minister Imran Khan had visited Karachi to unveil the Rs1.1 trillion aid-package at the Governor House in the presence of Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The package aimed at resolving Karachi's chronic issues, including cleaning of drains and sewage, provision of clean drinking water, and solid waste disposal within the next years. Subsequently, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Sindh "welcome(s) the Rs300 billion funding from the federal government for Karachi's infrastructure development", stated that Sindh's provincial government would contribute Rs800 billion to the Rs1.1tr package. On 6 September, federal Minister for Planning and Special Initiatives Asad Umar (PTI) along with federal IT and Telecom Minister Aminul Haque (MQM-Pakistan) and Maritime Affairs Minister Ali Zaidi held a press conference at Governor House without the presence of any PPP representative. Umar called PPP's announcement of the contributions a breach of understanding. He said "Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah had in a meeting agreed not to reveal the share of both the governments (federal and provincial)". However, the federal minister claimed that the Center would bear 62pc of the total amount of Rs1,100 billion for Karachi Transformation Plan (KTP), while only the remaining 38pc would be spent by Sindh. ("Federal govt refuses to trust Sindh with relief money," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

Editorials and Opinions
In his Dawn article, Zahid Hussain opines that "the political tussle between the PPP and PTI is obstructing plans to transform Pakistan's economic hub". He opines that while the trillion-rupee package marked the most serious move yet to address the Karachi's chronic, it has also intensified the battle for the country's economic hub. He says it is "more than a conflict between the federal and provincial authorities, this wrangling underscores the battle between the PPP that rules Sindh and the PTI that sees itself as the sole representative of the city and thus wants to take credit for the Karachi transformation package." He further calls the tussle a manifestation of the novel political dynamics that emerged with the 2018 elections. ("Battle for Karachi," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

An Editorial says a plan so large requires that all parties execute the plan without falling into petty fights. It calls the clashing claims by both the Center and Sindh unrealistic. The article highlights Sindh's concerns regarding PTI gaining political mileage in Sindh through the project and the Center trying to gain control of the Sindh capital. It also calls for the speedy resolution of the problem so that the victims do not suffer any longer. ("Controlling Karachi," The News International, 9 September 2020)

Abdul Sattar's opinion article speaks of the availability of the funds for the package, "PML-N leader Khawja Asif says the development budget of the federal government is only Rs700 billion and has wondered how Islamabad would generate this huge amount." The article highlights the need for holding parties like PTI, PPP and MQM accountable for their actions and big money. Sattar says "It is interesting to note that the party blames the MQM and the PTI for the plight of Karachiites but what excuse can it offer for the deplorable conditions of the city's rural areas that have also thrown a blanket support behind the party of Bhutto." ("The Karachi package," The News International, 9 September 2020)

Mosharraf Zaidi calls the KTP "an impressive allocation of financial resources and top-line political will in favour of a transformed Karachi." However, he says that "much like Pakistan's Covid-19 miracle, it may not be achievable without divine intervention". He adds that innovation or experiments in Pakistani governments are rare. Regarding the trillion-rupee package, he identifies competitions that have arisen or would in the near future: first, the PTI-PPP strife; second, the system vs the Mohajir; third, FBR vs trader; fourth, province vs federation; fifth, city vs village; sixth, competence v status quo and last, civil society versus the mafias. ("Competitions that will shape KTP," The News International, 9 September 2020) 

 
 (Image Source: Pakistan Reader)

The UN condemns the attacks on journalists and activists in Pakistan
On 8 September, the United Nations raised concern over the increasing attacks on journalists and activists in Pakistan, urging the country to protect those facing threats and investigate any violence. Further, the UN rights office while pointing out the case of journalist Shaheena Shaheen, stated that it was also concerned by the several instances of incitement to violence, both online and off, particularly against women and minority journalists and activists, as well as physical attacks.

Further, rights office spokesman Rupert Colville stated that the rights office has raised its concerns directly with the Government of Pakistan and has urged it to take "immediate, concrete steps to ensure the protection of journalists and human rights defenders who have been subjected to threats." ("UN decries attacks on journalists, activists," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

 

 
Pakistan National Assembly (Image Source: The News)

In Brief 
INTERNAL
On FATF: Editorial says the government should utilize the upcoming sessions of the National Assembly and Senate to answer all questions voiced by the opposition
An editorial in Dawn while addressing the government's decision to hold fresh sessions of the National Assembly and Senate on 14 September to get the Financial Action Task Force bills passed states that although there is doubt that bills relating to the requirements of FATF are critically important and it is in the interest of Pakistan to legislate them. Adding that the opposition is completely right to questions about the provisions of these bills. Critical of Prime Minister Imran Khan's used of harsh words against the opposition for blocking these two bills, stating that questioning someone's patriotism is condemnable. The editorial concludes by stating that the government should use the upcoming sessions of the National Assembly and Senate not only to table the FATF bills but answer all questions and allay fears voiced by the opposition. ("FATF bills," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

Christian factory worker awarded a sentence death in blasphemy case
On 8 September, a sessions court awarded a death penalty to a Christian factory worker on blasphemy charges. The accused, Asif Pervez Masih has been imprisoned for the past seven years after his supervisor, lodged an FIR against him at the Green Town police in 2013 under Sections 295-B and 295-C of Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and 25-D of the Telegraph Act. He was accused of sending his supervisor blasphemous text messages. Although denying the charges, the defence counsel argued that the supervisor used to persuade the convict to embrace Islam adding that he had to quit the job due to pressure from his supervisor. Further, the defence counsel announced he would file an appeal against the conviction in the Lahore High Court. ("Christian worker sentenced to death in blasphemy case," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

On 8 September, Sajid Gondal, an official of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) returned home after he went missing from his dairy farm last week. He took to twitter, stating, "I am back and safe, and I am thankful to all friends who were worried for me." ("Sajid Gondal returns home after alleged abduction," The Express Tribune, 9 September 2020) 

According to the Dawn, the "abductors" had set free Mr Gondal at a place between the famous Giga Shopping Mall and Rawat, some 30 kilometres from his Shahzad Town residence. Further investigation into the matter will be carried out after recording Gondal's statement. (Syed Irfan Raza, Malik Asad, "Missing SECP official back home after five days," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

PROVINCES
Punjab Assembly raises concerns over British MPs report on Pakistan
On 8 September, the Punjab Assembly voiced strong criticism over a report prepared by a group of British MPs accusing Pakistan of oppressing Qadiyanis under state patronage and asking London to link aid to Pakistan with the compliance of the report's recommendations. The house while passing a unanimous resolution titled "Suffocation of the Faithful," on private members day tabled by opposition members demanding that the government to ask the foreign ministry to immediately work on the withdraw the report. Further, the resolution termed the report as one-sided and also being used as a sinister plan against the religious freedom and sentiments of the entire Muslim world comprising nearly two billion people. (Asim Hussain, "PA concerned at British MPs biased report against Pakistan," The Express Tribune, 9 September 2020)

Legislators and NGOs claims that Balochistan has the highest female mortality rate in the world
On 8 September, legislators, representatives of civil society and women working for NGOs claimed that Balochistan has the highest female mortality rate in the world. This claim was made by Sana Bloch, a Member of the Balochistan Assembly along with Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Chairman of the Standing Committee for Women, General Secretary of the Quetta Press Club and representatives of NGOs working for women and children rights. Further, they claimed that the per capita education ratio of female education was lowest in Balochistan in the entire world, adding that a large number of girls drop out of school due to various reasons. Further, they highlighted the difficulty women face in obtaining ID cards and how this further restricts them. (Saleem Shahid, "'Balochistan has highest female mortality rate in the world'," Dawn, 9 September 2020)

ON AFGHANISTAN
An opinion asks when the nations of the world would wake up to demand an end to the assault on the rule of law
An opinion in the Express Tribune critical of the blatant involvement of American soldiers in war crimes in Afghanistan states that it was predictable of the US to impose penalties on the Prosecutor of the ICC for investigating crimes committed by US forces in Afghanistan. Further, while highlighting the situation in Afghanistan where not only has the practice of torture techniques on prisoners been an issue but civilians have also borne the brunt of the senseless conflict in Afghanistan along with the resistance groups, the Afghan army and foreign forces who have left the country devasted. The opinion concluded by stating that there must be an institutionalized mechanism to investigate deliberate crimes of this magnitude committed against helpless prisoners or civilians, adding that this responsibility has been entrusted to the ICC. Thus, when an institution initiates action as per its internationally recognized mandate, a country's un-cooperation defeats the working for such institutions adding that such an action would be clear defiance of the collective will of humanity. (Rustam Shah Mohmand, "Afghanistan war crimes," The Express Tribune, 9 September 2020)

 

 


"The misunderstandings and doubts between the PPP in Sindh and the PTI in the centre have crept up once again. They will, quite evidently, have an impact on the success of the massive project, which is planned to bring clean water to the people of Karachi, to reconstruct drains to improve sewerage and to undertake other work, which can help Karachi function like a modern city. There is also concern in Sindh that through the KTP, the centre may be trying to gain control of the Sindh capital, with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah saying in unambiguous terms that the PPP will not let that happen"

-  Editorial, The News, on the PTI-PPP differences over Karachi's reconstruction

 

 


There is no rule of law in Islamabad Capital Territory for ordinary citizens, observes High Court


Photo: Dawn



The Islamabad High Court came down heavily on the government over the issue of enforced disappearances. Justice Athar Minahullah has observed if the state and the courts cannot protect the right to life of a citizen, then there is no reason for them to continue.

The disappearance of Sajid Gondal
The first case was relating to a habeas corpus petition filed by the mother of an official working with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). On 3 September, Sajid Gondal, a joint director working with the SECP went missing in Islamabad. According to Dawn, his wife tried to complain to the police the following day; but, could not get the FIR registered. However, Shireen Mazari, the minister of Human Rights tweeted: "Disappearance of Sajid Gondal is of concern & we as govt have a duty to ensure his early recovery. Police has been directed to register an FIR. Protection of each citizen's life is our constitutional obligation. Rule of law must prevail - all must be dealt with acc to the law."

On the same day, Amnesty International also took up the issue to apply pressure on the concerned. In a report it said: "Sajid Gondal, a former journalist and an official with the SECP, is missing and feared to have been disappeared. We call upon the authorities to establish his whereabouts immediately."

The Habeas Corpus and the Islamabad High Court
Following the habeas corpus petition by Sajid Gondal's mother, the Islamabad High Court took up the issue. On 5 September, Justice Minahullah asking the authorities to look into the matter also observed the following: "The recent increase in cases of abduction within the fourteen hundred square miles area of the Islamabad Capital Territory is alarming and raises questions regarding fundamental rights of the citizens and the state of governance."

According to Dawn, on the same day, "the court warned that in case the responsible public functionaries failed to produce Mr Gondal before the court on Monday at 2pm, the interior secretary and the chief commissioner and the inspector general of Islamabad would appear in person in court to explain why they might not be proceeded against for their inability and failure on part of the federal government and the administration of the Islamabad Capital Territory to protect citizens from harm." ("IHC wants 'missing' govt official recovered by tomorrow," Dawn, 6 September 2020)

Unfortunately, there was no positive development in the case. When the deadline came to an end yesterday (7 September), all that could be done by the officials involved in the case, was to appear before the Court. In the words of the Court: "The officials, who have appeared today, prima facie, do not seem to appreciate the gravity of the alleged offence and its consequences, not only for the loved ones of the citizen who went missing three days ago, but the general public as well." ("IHC wants PM briefed on enforced disappearances," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

Court wants the PM to briefed on the issue
According to Dawn, Justice Minallah also "directed the interior secretary to brief the worthy PM and members of his cabinet regarding the abysmal state of law and order and the obvious impunity against crime within the 1,400 square miles area." ("IHC wants PM briefed on enforced disappearances," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

The problem of Enforced Disappearances in Pakistan
On 30 August (International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances), the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) reiterated to the government its pledge to criminalize enforced disappearances, keeping in line with the Islamabad High Court's 2018 ruling, which categorized enforced disappearance as a crime against humanity. The HRCP went on to state that no only much this atrocious practice be recognized an offence with the perpetrators held strictly accountable, but also victims and their families must also be compensated for the pain that this issue has brought. Further, the press release by the commission stated that while victims such as Dr Deen Mohammad from Balochistan have now been missing 11 long years, there has been a new pattern of persons who are disappeared forcibly for shorter periods and then 'allowed' to return after having been subjected to torture and warned against continuing their work. The HRCP demanded that the findings of the 2010 judicial commission on enforced disappearances are made public and the Commission of Inquiry of Enforced Disappearances (COIOED) be made an independent tribunal that can deliver justice. ("Freedom from fear: HRCP demands end to enforced disappearances," Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 29 August 2020) ("International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances – 30 August," Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 30 August 2020)

The COIOED in August stated that a total number of 6,686 cases were received up until June 2020. During July 2020, 43 more cases were received by the commission and the total numbers of cases reached 6,729. The commission disposed 23 cases in July 2020 and thus total resolved cases as of 30 July, 2020, is 4,616, with a balance of 2,113 cases. The commission was to resume its hearings with the lifting of the lockdown restrictions. ("Missing Persons Commission disposes of 4,616 cases till 30 July, 2020," Pakistan Today, 4 August 2020)

 
The government decides to start the educational institutions (Image Source: The News)

 

From 15 September, Schools and Educational institutions will reopen in phases, says federal Education Minister

Following a virtual meeting of the Inter-Provincial Education Ministers' Conference (IPEMC) and that of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), while addressing a press conference, the federal Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood announced the reopening of educational institutions across the country in phases from 15 September. SAPM on National Health Services Dr Faisal Sultan accompanied Mr Mehmood at the press conference. The institutions have remained closed for over six months due to the highly proliferous global Covid-19 pandemic. ("Educational institutions to reopen in phases from 15th," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

The phases and restrictions
According to the minister: The first phase will include all higher educational institutions, including professional colleges, vocational institutes, universities, and secondary and higher secondary schools (classes nine till 12). These classes will resume on 15 September. The second phase, starting on 23 September (following a fresh review), will include the reopening of classes six, seven and eight, followed by primary schools on 30 September, in accordance with the government's standards operating procedure (SOPs).

The institutions were also warned of action in case of violation of the government's SOPs, including students' sitting arrangements with a six-foot distance, wearing masks by students, teachers and school staff alike, and sufficient facilities for hand sanitizing and washing. The number of students would also be limited in order to avoid the spread of the virus. According to Dawn, the number of students would have to be halved in order to ensure social distancing. 

 
Imran Khan unveiling the financial package for Karachi last week (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 

INTERNAL
Centre and Sindh fight over the ownership Rs300bn KCR
Both the federal and Sindh governments are fighting over the ownership of Rs300 billion Karachi Circular Railway (KCR). Prime Minister Imran Khan claimed its cost in their share of investment under the Rs1.1 trillion Karachi Transformation Project (KTP). Further, the Planning Commission (PC) stated that the federal government had committed projects with an additional cost of Rs736bn under the KTP and would seek diversion of Rs125bn expected from the Bahria Town settlement fund to finance it. On the other hand, the Sindh government shows the KCR project in its portfolio of Rs802bn as part of the KTP and includes Rs50.8bn as its share and the remaining Rs249.2bn as Chinese loan. (Khaleeq Kiani, "Centre, Sindh claim control over Rs300bn KCR," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

Another polio case reported in Balochistan
Another case of poliovirus has been detected in Balochistan where a 15-month-old child from Pishin district has been diagnosed with the virus. According to the Dawn, the health department's officials stated that samples of the child were collected on 19 and 20 August, however, the parents of the affected child refused to get their child vaccinated when polio teams visited their home during anti-polio campaigns. This addition brings the number of polio cases in Balochistan to 18 only in this year. Further, in the current year, 22 cases have been reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 21 cases from Sindh, 18 from Balochistan and eight cases from Punjab have been reported so far. Totalling it at 69 cases so far when compared to 147 cases in 2019 and only 12 cases in 2018. (Khaleeq Kiani, "Another child from Balochistan contracts poliovirus," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

ISPR confirms that Waseem Zakeria, a mastermind behind the militant attacks was killed during an intelligence operation in North Waziristan
On 7 September, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that a mastermind of militant attacks along with four accomplices were also killed during an intelligence operation in North Waziristan tribal district. According to the Daw, the statement issued by the ISPR stated that the deceased terrorist, Waseem Zakeria, was the mastermind of 30 attacks, including the targeted killing of government officials and security forces personnel. Further, Zakeria was also said to be involved in the assassination of Zubaidullah Khan, a CSP officer of the Federal Information Group, posted as director of the Pakistan Housing Authority in Islamabad. Further, 10 other terrorists were also arrested during the operation near Mirali. (Khaleeq Kiani, "'Mastermind' of militant attacks among five killed in North Waziristan," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

NA and Senate to hold sessions for passage FATF bills 
On 7 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan decided on stating new sessions of the National Assembly and the Senate on 14 and 15 September to get the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and other important bills passed from the two houses. This decision was made during a meeting between the PM and his adviser on parliamentary affairs. This meeting came after the postponement of the Senate and National Assembly sessions scheduled for 7 September due to devastation caused by the recent rains across the country. Further, other matters were also discussed during the meeting. (Syed Irfan Raza, "NA, Senate sessions slated for next week to get FATF bills passed," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

The Karachi rescue plan another point of PTI-PPP contestation says Editorial
The Editorial speaks of how the Karachi rescue plan quickly becomes another item over which PTI and PPP exchange accusations. It says that the plan was on the right track until PM Khan's Karachi visit on 5 September, during which he announced the historic Rs1.1 trillion Karachi Transformation Plan (KTP). Despite everyone on agreement regarding the plan and its implementation being crucial, the moment the PPP chairman said that Sindh government would provide the lion's share – Rs800 billion of the total amount. ("Rescuing the rescue plan?," Daily Times, 8 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
FIA arrests transnational gang allegedly involved in illegal organ transplant in China
On 7 August, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has busted a transnational gang allegedly involved in illegal organ transplant in China after it conducted a raid at the passport office. The rain was conducted on the directions of FIA Punjab Zone-I Deputy Director on receiving intel that an international gang was active in Lahore in the illegal transplant of human organs. Seven suspects, including donors and agents, have been arrested. These gangs have been said to motivate poor and needy people to sell their liver and kidney and then had the organ transplant conducted in China. Further, the FIA had previously arrested several suspects involved in illegal human organ transplant, especially in Punjab. (Zulqernain Tahir, "Illegal organ transplant gang with contacts in China busted," Dawn, 8 September 2020)

 

 


"The alleged abduction of citizens and failure on part of law enforcing agencies to trace their whereabouts and prosecute and punish the perpetrators of this most heinous crime appears to have become a norm. There is no accountability. It appears though the protectors of fundamental rights have become silent spectators to this most abhorrent violation of fundamental rights"

-  Chief Justice, Islamabad High Court on Enforced Disappearances

 

 


On Karachi, PPP and PTI divide comes to open


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
On Karachi, PPP and PTI divide comes to open
One day after the 1100 billion rupees worth financial package

The package
On 5 October 2020 (Saturday), the Prime Minister unveiled a huge financial package for the revival of Karachi to be shared by the PTI government at the federal level and the PPP government at the provincial level. The package was welcomed by the people of Karachi cutting across party lines.

The package, coming in the wake of incessant rains and disaster floods was to address the following: water supply (Imran Khan stated while releasing the package: "Our effort is to permanently solve Karachi's water problem in three years."); encroachment of nullahs (the provincial government was to take care of rehabilitating the displaced, while the NDMA was to clear the nullahs); sewerage system; solid waste disposal; and the city transport. ("PM announces Rs1.1 trillion 'historic' package for Karachi's transformation," Dawn, 6 September 2020.)

The divide
However, within a day, the divide between the federal and provincial governments (read between the PTI and the PPP) came out in the open. It all started with who will contribute how much to the 1100 billion rupees package. The PPP government in Sindh wants to make the lion's share. Bilawal Bhutto said: "We welcome the Rs300 billion funding from the federal government for Karachi's infrastructure development. The Sindh government will contribute Rs800 billion to this development package." Immediately after the above statement, Asad Umar, the federal Minister for Planning smelled politics and made a contradicting statement. He said: "Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah had in a meeting agreed not to reveal the share of both the governments [federal and provincial]…It is necessary to set the record straight. The federal government will bear 62 per cent of the total amount of Rs1,100 billion announced by Prime Minister Imran Khan for KTP [Karachi Transformation Plan], while the remaining 38pc will be spent by the provincial government."

The politics
Why are the PTI and PPP fighting with who will spend more? The answer is simple: politics. The PTI wants to be seen as the party that saved Karachi. PPP cannot afford to provide that space to the PTI and its partner – the MQM in Karachi. PPP wants to preserve its political space in Sindh; PTI wants to encroach it.

Dawn, in its editorial, sums up the problem of Karachi, and the divide between the federal and provincial governments: "For the better part of the past two years, the federal and provincial governments have been at daggers drawn over who gets to control the city. Promises have been made by both, but no meaningful work is visible. Development packages were also introduced by previous governments, but they were largely ineffective due to shoddy implementation and toothless municipal bodies. In fact, this sprawling megapolis has been without a functioning local government system since the tenure of the last set-up expired on 31 August. Has a watershed moment really been reached? The recent cloudburst acted as an equaliser of sorts; the rich and powerful — whose numbers include federal and provincial ministers — and the poor and voiceless were all affected. If even this calamity does not bring about a common resolve in those who govern to work together, despite their varying political opinions, Karachi would be a lost cause." (Editorial, "Rescuing Karachi," Dawn, 7 September 2020)

 
There has been a series of violence in Waziristan during the last week (Image Source: Dawn)

Targeted Violence continues in Waziristan

On 6 September, an army officer and a soldier were wounded in an attack on security forces by militants in North Waziristan tribal district. According to the Dawn, the officials stated that the militants attacked a military vehicle near Hasokhel Bridge in Mirali sub-division. (Pazir Gul, "Two army men injured in North Waziristan attack," Dawn, 7 September 2020) This attack came a day after a soldier was martyred and three others were wounded in an attack on an army patrolling party near Mirali in North Waziristan tribal district. The convoy was said to come under attack at Hassokhel Gulshen Adda near Mirali. (Pazir Gul, "Soldier martyred in attack on convoy," Dawn, 6 September 2020)

Unending Attacks
Over the last few weeks, in particular, there have been frequent attacks in Waziristan. On 6 September, three suspected terrorists from the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were killed in an exchange of fire with members of security forces in South Waziristan tribal district. Clashes took place between the security forces and the insurgents in the Shahsur Kaskai area of Servekai tehsil. This was the first clash between security forces and the TTP after two splinter groups of militants declared the launch of an armed struggle against Pakistan earlier last month. (Dilawar Wazir, "Three TTP men killed in clash with security forces in South Waziristan," Dawn, 6 September 2020)

On 3 September, an army officer and two soldiers were martyred in a terrorist attack on security forces in North Waziristan. According to reports, the terrorists had planted an improvised explosive device on a roadside. It went off near a convoy of troops protecting road construction teams working on Ghariom section of Shaga-Nishpa road in North Waziristan. (Dilawar Wazir, "Officer, two soldiers martyred in North Waziristan attack," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

Earlier on 1 September, three soldiers were martyred, and four others got bullet injuries when militants attacked a patrolling party in South Waziristan tribal district. The attack came as the troops were patrolling a hilly area in the Kazkai region of Ladha tehsil when terrorists opened fire at them. ("Three soldiers martyred in S. Waziristan attack," Dawn, 1 September 2020)

Continuing militant infiltration 
South Waziristan, in particular, has witnessed a spike in attacks on security forces like the adjacent North Waziristan tribal district, with the situation deteriorating due to this spike in attacks on security forces as well as acts of targeted killing of civilians.

The recent developments of the two breakaway factions having remerged with the banned TTP and with the militant Islamic State (IS) group announcing its new head for the region along with Baloch and Sindhi insurgent groups became more active in Sindh, suggests a possible connection between them. These developments are likely to have an impact on Pakistan's militant landscape and could be a reason for the surge in terrorist Violence. (Muhammad Amir Rana, "Changing militant landscape," Dawn, 6 September 2020)

Further, earlier this year, residents, especially in North Waziristan, warned that militants were moving back into their areas. This increasing frequency of attacks may be an indication that militant groups are still managing to slip across the border, or that sleeper cells on this side have become more active.

 
Gen Bajwa refers to a hybrid war aimed at discrediting the armed forces (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief

INTERNAL

Army Chief talks about a hybrid war that is aimed "to discredit the country and its armed forces and spread chaos"
On 6 September, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa had cautioned against efforts being made to dishonour the country and its armed forces, adding that the army with the cooperation of the nation will win the "fifth generation or hybrid war." As part of the celebration of Defence and Martyrs' Day held at the General Headquarters, he stated, "We are facing the challenge that has been imposed on us in the form of the fifth-generation or hybrid war. Its purpose is to discredit the country and its armed forces and spread chaos. We are well aware of this danger. We will surely succeed in winning this war with the cooperation of the nation, by the will of Almighty Allah." (Aamir Yasin, "Army will win hybrid war with nation's help: Bajwa," Dawn, 7 September 2020)

Editorial says women see no choice but to suffer in silence
An editorial in the News International critical of the recent killing of Shaheena Shaheen, a journalist states that the reason why domestic abuse is hugely under-reported, with very few women making their situation public is due to the lack of a social support system leaving most women to no choice but to suffer in silence. Further, the editorial points out that it is the issue does not stem from the lack of legislation but the enforcement of these laws. Further, the strictly patriarchal characteristic of Pakistani society restricts women empowerment. The editorial concluded by stating that the need of the hour is a change in mindset, a shift away from the kind of thinking that teaches our boys and men that a woman is their possession. A journalist like Shaheena should not have had to die the way she did, adding that the fact that she did shows the failure of society. ("Journalist killed," The News International, 7 September 2020)

GILGIT-BALTISTAN
PTI makes a comprehensive strategy for the upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and PoK
On 6 September, Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur called on Chief Organiser Saifullah Khan Nyazee at the PTI Central Secretariat to discuss a comprehensive strategy for the upcoming elections in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). At the meeting, it was decided that they would choose candidates with strong political credentials, public popularity and strong ties with the people to be their representatives. Additionally, a statement issued by PTI Central Media Department stated that both leaders also discussed important issues related to the formation of a high-level parliamentary board to determine the candidates and the strategy at large to win upcoming elections. ("PTI to field strong candidates in upcoming AJK elections," The News International, 7 September 2020) Further, the PTI has decided to contest the upcoming elections for the legislative assemblies of Gilgit-Baltistan and PoK without making an electoral alliance with any political party. (Amir Wasim, "PTI to go solo for elections in GB, AJK," Dawn, 7 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Pakistan is unable to get foreign investment because for two reasons; weak economic fundamentals and fast-changing dynamics of geopolitics 
With the country facing a balance-of-payments problem, there is an urgent need for foreign investment. This need has become all the more urgent given the limited scope of volumetric expansion in exports and remittances in the short term. Pakistan's foreign direct investment (FDI) grew to $2.56 billion in 2019-20, Foreign portfolio investment stood at minus $241 million in 2019-20, now the PTI government, in its third year, is trying to take FDI to new heights and take foreign portfolio investment in both government debt papers as well as stocks into positive territory with recent efforts yielding a moderate success. However, the underlying issues are that the lack of strong economic fundamentals and fast-changing dynamics of geopolitics demand too much from the country if it wants to attain sustainable economic growth and development. These two factors, along with the Covid-19 has triggered a recession in major economies and the country's pursuit for the rebalancing of civil-military relationships for a sustainable democracy has made it difficult to accelerate the growth of foreign investment. (Mohiuddin Aazim, "Why getting foreign investment is difficult," Dawn, 7 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Saudi envoy says that friendship with Pakistan is in their blood
On 6 September, Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan Admiral (Retd) Nawaf bin Said Al-Maliki stated that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have brotherly ties based on mutual respect and due to holiest mosques of Islam, friendship and unity, adding that the relationship was like two bodies and one soul which were getting stronger and stronger. He also said that the friendship of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan was in their blood which is why Saudi Arabia will always love and support Pakistan. The ambassador made these statements while he was visiting the University of Management and Technology. Further, UMT president Ibrahim Hasan Murad emphasised on the need for people to people exchanges between the two countries and also gave a brief presentation of ILM/UMT to the ambassador while shedding light on the collaboration of Pak-Saudi educational institutes. ("Friendship with Pakistan in our blood: Saudi envoy," The News International, 7 September 2020)

ON INDIA
An editorial in Dawn, calls for the continuation of a global debate on Kashmir till there is a just solution
The editorial says that despite Kashmir continuing as a point of contest for the world, New Delhi is taking on "underhanded methods" to strike the issue of the United Nation Security Council's agenda; a means of ensuring that Kashmir would not be discussed in the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in New York. The article criticised India's claims of ending the disputed nature of the region through the revocation of Article 370 on 5 August 2019 and called it "illegal occupation." It acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan's efforts to raise the Kashmir issue across global platforms, including the recent charged statements to the OIC by FM Qureshi. The editorial argues that the issue will remain unresolved until the will of the Kashmiri people are taken into consideration. ("Kashmir at UN," Dawn, 7 September 2020)

An Opinion argues India is using "Pakistani media to instigate the masses against the army by spreading fake news, scandals and misinformation"
The opinion by Retired Brigadier Masud Ahmad Khan identifies Pakistan's national interests as "independence, territorial integrity, national security, strong defence, Kashmir and economic prosperity" and calls the Pakistan Army and the country's ideology as its centre of gravity. The opinion says "India has yet to accept the existence of Pakistan as a sovereign country. It even tried to prevent its emergence and then, in 1971, severed the country in two." Masud credits the Pak-Army as being the only viable opposition to India's emergence as a regional superpower. Moreover, he argues that the Pak-Army is what holds Pakistan's national fabric together and is the sole institution the people look towards during any calamity. Masud also says that people shouldn't engage in any activity that would "damage the reputation and prestige of the Pakistan Army". ("Pakistan Army—the centre of gravity," The Nation, 7 September 2020)

 


"We are facing the challenge that has been imposed on us in the form of the fifth-generation or hybrid war. Its purpose is to discredit the country and its armed forces and spread chaos. We are well aware of this danger. We will surely succeed in winning this war with the cooperation of the nation, by the will of Almighty Allah"

-  COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa

 


Kashmir in the UN and Pakistan


Photo: Dawn



On 4 September, Amb Munir Akram, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN stated that Kashmir cannot be removed from the UNSC's agenda. He said, "Indian representatives are either deluding themselves, or deluding their public, by asserting that they will remove Kashmir from the Security Council's agenda". Akram added that UNSC was committed to resolving the Kashmir issue according to the Kashmiris' desire and that "a member state cannot change the agenda unilaterally."

According to Dawn, diplomatic sources at the UN headquarters say that India has been seeking the removal of the Kashmir dispute from the UNSC agenda for long now. However, in vain. They called India's claims "outlandish" and said that the disputed status would change only if "there is a consensus decision" of the council, which is "obviously not true in the case of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute". Another diplomat said "It is a pity that a country which is so eager to join the council is not even aware of the basic rules of procedure governing its functions". ("Kashmir can't be removed from UN agenda: Pakistan," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

The Kashmir Context
Earlier this week, India had asked the UNSC to take the Kashmir dispute off its agenda, in order to prevent Pakistan raising the issue at the UN General Assembly's 75thsession. The UNGA session commences this month in New York. The Indian statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019 said that Islamabad "keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the council's agenda permanently". With China's support, Pakistan raised the Kashmir issue in the UN three times since India revoked Article 370 on 5 August 2019. India argues that the 5 August move ends the disputed nature of Kashmir and hence the council must remove the same from its agenda. Every year the UNSC puts the Kashmir dispute on its agenda as "the India-Pakistan Question".

The council still considers it an unresolved dispute and maintains military observers on both sides of the LoC. UNMOGIP remains stationed in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan's Efforts at the OIC
Pakistan has also been pushing for a Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of the Saudi-led Organisation of Islamic Countries. The frustration among the political elite of Pakistan was evident in the manner in which Foreign Minister Shah Mahmoud Qureshi fired directed an unusually charged statement to the OIC, asking the latter to stop procrastinating the convening of the CFM meeting on the Kashmir issue. It sparked a diplomatic spat between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. ("Qureshi asks OIC to stop dragging feet on Kashmir meeting," Dawn, 6 August 2020)

 
The Supreme Court of Pakistan (Image Source: Daily Times)

"Honour Killing: Courts say it sees no honour

On 4 September, the Supreme Court observed that the killing of women in the name of honour has never been an honourable practice, stating that such murders should not be categorized as honour killings. A two-judge bench headed by Justice Qazi Faez Isa had taken up the jail appeal of Mohammad Abbas against the 8 September 2015 verdict of the Lahore High Court in the murder case of his wife, Saima Bibi. Further, observed that although the Parliament was concerned with the prevalence of such killings and enacted the legislation to curb this practice by ensuring that offenders do not avail of the benefit of section 302(c) PPC, for which the maximum punishment is twenty-five years imprisonment but which does not prescribe a minimum punishment, still sufficient efforts have not been taken to discourage crimes against women with extremism and violence having penetrated deep into Pakistani society.

Equating 'Ghairat' to 'honour' is incorrect, says Justice Isa
While hearing the jail petition, Justice Isa said, "It will help deter such killings if the term 'Ghairat' is not used to describe them," explaining that it was inaccurate to translate Urdu word 'Ghairat' into English as 'honour', adding that the Urdu word did not have an exact English equivalent. Further, he explained that a more accurate translation of 'Ghairat' would be 'arrogance.'

The Context: Pakistan and 'Honour Killing'
Pakistan has one of the highest per capita honour killings in the world where women have been the predominant victims. The practice of 'Honour Killing' is deeply rooted in the societal perception of women being property and thereby, a source of honour. For many within Pakistan, women and girls are seen to embody family honour, their identity, existence and social respects are derived or measured by their obedience to family demands. This is even more prominent in tribal societies, where anything a woman does can compromise the honour of the family. Thus, honour crimes are committed as a way of policing or disciplining women and girls who are seen to be violating the social code. Further, these killings have been committed on the pretext of 'ghairat' with the perception that the killing will provide some justification for the crime.

The issue has been also been a challenge due to the crossover of tribal practices and customs possess a higher status than the federal law. In many regions, honour killing is not considered as a crime by the jirga (tribal council) but a legitimate action of the man whose family was dishonoured. In this regard, successive governments have failed to govern mainstream legislations and have failed to exercise due diligence in protecting the rights of women. Further, the limited reach of the judiciary in tribal areas has made fighting a legal battle inaccessible for these women, with seeking justice being extremely problematic in Pakistan where many legal loopholes currently exist which allow perpetrators of honour killings to escape any punishment.

A move to make crimes against women a public matter
This observation from the Supreme Court can be seen as a way by which the country is trying to directly address this practice. Crimes against women have mostly remained to be a private matter in Pakistan as well as other parts of South Asia. Judgements and observations such as these will help pave the way to curb this practice which is an extreme expression of patriarchal violence. However, this practice needs to be strongly condemned not just by governments and the judicial system, the solution to this brutal practice begins from where the issue stems, meaning, it is only when communities see these crimes as unethical can transformation and change occur.

 
Imran Khan refuses to accept the resignation by Lt Gen (retd) Asim Bajwa (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 
INTERNAL

PM Imran Khan declines SAPM Bajwa's resignation
On 4 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan declined to accept the resignation of Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting retired Lt Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa after allegations regarding his family's offshore assets and properties were made public. Further, a press release by the Prime Minister Office stated, "the prime minister said he was satisfied with explanation and evidences presented by Lt Gen Bajwa and thus he asked Mr Bajwa to continue his service as SAPM." Bajwa's resignation came after journalist Ahmed Noorani went public on Bajwa's offshore assets and properties on a website. Subsequently, he came up with a detailed clarification of the news report which accused him of using his offices for establishing his family's offshore assets and companies in the United States and the United Arab Emirates and that he had not mentioned these in his asset's declaration in Pakistan. (Syed Irfan Raza, "PM refuses to accept aide's resignation," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

Bilawal hope PM will lend support to both Karachi and the entire province
On 4 September, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari hoped that Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Karachi will come with massive financial support for disaster-hit Sindh. While addressing a press conference at the Chief Minister House, Bilawal came up with a list of demands as well as criticism ahead of PM Khan's visit to Karachi, stating that he expected the premier would come up with rehabilitation, reconstruction and relief plan not for Karachi alone but the entire province. However, criticizing the government, the PPP leader termed Khan-led administration a "puppet government" which was allegedly weakening the federation by not releasing funds to the provincial government. (Syed Irfan Raza, "Bilawal hopes PM will offer huge financial support for rain-hit Sindh," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

PM decides to make South Punjab secretariat operational in a move to bring prosperity 
On 4 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to formally make south Punjab secretariat operational on 15 October, stating, "Separate allocation for south Punjab would usher in a new era of progress and prosperity". Further, according to the Prime Minister Office, PM Khan emphasized that the government was focusing bringing about improvement to the life of the common man and directed the administration of south Punjab to work to fulfil this vision. Further, he directed the authorities to complete the process of devolution of power phase-wise to ensure the smooth running of administrative procedures. This decision was announced at a meeting which was attended by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar, Finance Minister Makhdoom Hashim Jawan Bakht, the chief secretary, additional chief secretary and the additional inspector general of south Punjab joined the meeting online. ("South Punjab secretariat becomes operational on 15 October," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

Blast outside Quetta mosque injures four
On 4 September, four people were injured in a bomb blast outside a mosque in the Sariab Road area. The attack is said to be carried out by unknown attackers who planted the bomb in a motorcycle and parked it in front of the mosque. It was detonated by remote control. The blast occurred at around 1 pm when people gathered at the mosque for Friday prayers and was detonated when the prayer leader was delivering the Juma sermon. Further, the attack appears to be aimed at target the security personnel patrolling the area, however, the police have launched an investigation into the incident. ("Four injured in blast outside Quetta mosque," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

Global Innovation Index (GII): Pakistan's business innovation ranking drops
In 2020, Pakistan's "ability, capacity and success in business innovation" declined and Pakistan's ranking on the Global Innovation Index (GII) declined by three ranks. It dropped to 107 from 104 in 2019. According to GII's report, due to worsening economic indicators, Pakistan's ranking in terms of market sophistication fell from 102 in 2019 to 116 in 2020 and the nation's ability to attract foreign and other investment also deteriorated during the year. ("Pakistan's business innovation ranking declines," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

An Opinion argues SAPMs and Advisers as de-facto ministers would no longer be possible
An analysis in Dawn by Ahmed Bilal Mehboob says the Islamabad High Court's recent nine-page judgement, regarding the alleged illegal exercise of executive powers by an adviser to the Prime Minister, while clarifying various legal questions, cleared ambiguities but raised novel questions regarding the functions and role of the unelected SAPMs and advisers. The judgement clarifies that an adviser does not form a part of the federal cabinet. The author concludes that "the practice of assigning ministries and divisions to advisers and special assistants as de facto ministers or ministers of state will no more be possible or at least easy. ("Advisers, SAPMs and cabinet," Dawn, 5 September 2020)

PIA will not appeal EU flight ban
As the deadline to appeal the European Union six-month flight ban on Pakistan International Airlines' (PIA) lucrative flights to European locations, expired on 31 August, PIA officials told Reuters that PIA would not appeal and would instead review its turnaround strategy. The ban was a blow to the ailing airlines mired in controversy recently. PIA spokesman Abdullah Khan told Reuters, "We've decided that filing an appeal at this stage will be counter-productive". The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had banned PIA in June over safety concerns after Pakistan grounded dozens of its pilots alleging dubious qualifications. ("'PIA not to appeal EU flight ban, will review turnaround strategy'," The News International, 5 September 2020)

ON INDIA
An analysis predicts the Indian economy will worsen
Khalid Bhatti's article says that Indian economy has shrunk by 23.9 per cent from April-June 2020, calling it the biggest decline in growth rate of one of the world's largest economies and the "sharpest contraction in nearly 40 years". The article opines that recovery would take longer, cites declining incomes as reason for decline in consumption and demand, states that the ongoing pandemic situation would worsen the economy and the recovery and says that Modi government has failed on both fronts – pandemic and the economy. ("Deepening crisis in India," The News International, 5 September 2020)

Another analysis considers Modi government's policies "disastrous"
The article calls the incumbent Modi government's policies ranging from the anti-Muslim rhetoric, to the crackdown on the press, "the belligerent attitude to the economy", failed employment generation policies, Citizenship Amendment Act, demonetization and pandemic-related policies a complete failure. It accuses the government of attempting to tear-apart the secular social fabric of India. ("Modi's disastrous policies," The News International, 5 September 2020)

 

 


"We have an excellent relationship [with the army’s top brass]. I honestly think it is the most harmonious relationship. We have complete coordination, we work together, the military completely stands by all the democratic government’s policies whether it is with India, whether it is for peaceful solution in Afghanistan...everywhere the military stands by us"

-  Imran Khan on Civil-Military relations.

 

 


Lt Gen (retd) Asim Bajwa to resign following allegations relating to business fortunes of his family


Photo: Dawn



On 3 September, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Information and Broadcasting Lt Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa while rejecting the allegations levelled against him announced his resignation to step down. He is to submit his resignation to the Prime Minister today. However, Bajwa would continue working as Chairman of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Authority; he has stated, "I want to focus fully on CPEC projects." adding, "CPEC projects are the country's future."

Bajwa's decision to resign comes shortly after he issued a rebuttal to the allegations against him and his family. In a press release, he stated, "I have not shied away to explain the allegations shamelessly levelled against me. These allegations have been hurled at me to tarnish my image."

Allegations levelled against Bajwa
On 27 August, journalist Ahmed Noorani published a detailed report alleging that Bajwa had used his offices in setting up of off-shore businesses of his wife, sons and brothers. In a lengthy report, he claimed that Bajwa's younger brothers opened their first Papa John's pizza restaurant in 2002, the year he started working as a lieutenant colonel on the General Pervez Musharraf's staff. Further, adding that Nadeem Bajwa, who started as a delivery driver for the pizza restaurant franchise, his brothers and Asim Bajwa's wife and sons now own a business empire which set up 99 companies in four countries, including a pizza franchise with 133 restaurants worth an estimated $39.9 million. Out of the total 99 firms, 66 are main companies, 33 are branch companies of some of the main companies, while five firms have shut down. Further, the report alleged that Bajwa's brothers had conducted businesses in the US, and the growth of their business was relatable to his promotion in the Pakistan Army.

His report also pointed out that Bajwa's wife was a shareholder in all the foreign businesses from the start. Currently, she is said to be associated with or is a shareholder in 85 companies, including 82 foreign companies. Further, the records of US state governments and other documents related to the companies shows that some of these American companies also have investments in real estate sector and that they own 13 commercial properties in the United States, including two shopping centres. The estimated current net worth of businesses and properties of these companies jointly owned by Bajwa's wife stands at $52.7 million. Further, the report alleged that Bajwa's declaration of assets and liabilities as a SAPM in the federal government on 22 June 2020 was incorrect because he failed to disclose the investment of my wife abroad. ("PM's aide quits following family business allegations," Dawn, 4 September 2020)
Click here for Noorani's full report: "BAJWA FAMILY BUSINESS EMPIRE GREW IN FOUR COUNTRIES IN SYNC WITH ASIM BAJWA’S RISE IN MILITARY," 27 August 2020

Responding to the allegations 
Bajwa "vehemently denied" the contents of the news report by journalist Ahmad Noorani published an "unknown" website as "incorrect and false." While maintaining that all "adverse insinuations" levelled in the news item was "materially false." ("Asim Bajwa clarifies position, to resign as SAPM," The News International, 4 September 2020)

On the allegation that his declaration of assets and liabilities as a SAPM on 22 June suffered from the omission of investment of his wife abroad, he stated "on the date of filing of the declaration, my wife was no longer an investor or shareholder in any business of my brothers or anyone else, abroad," adding that the allegation was "materially false." Further, he clarified that his wife had disinvested all her interests as of 1 June 2020 in any entity abroad and this fact had been duly documented in the official records in the US.

Further, he clarified his position on the "alleged investment of businesses" of his brothers in the Papa John's pizza chain in the US and DQ and the UAE, stating, "this is far from truth as Bajco Global Management, LLC is not the parent of any company and is only a management company that provides management services to all Bajco-related businesses on a fee basis," he added. "Bajco Global Management, LLC does not have any ownership interest in any Papa John's in the USA, DQ, UAE or any real estate." Further, he added, "any further investments, over and above the amounts referenced above, by my brothers and my wife were done by reinvesting their share of profits from the businesses itself and are also fully accounted for."

Bajwa also went on to dismissed the allegations about the businesses his children and justifies their actions adding, "All my sons are above 18 years and none are my dependents. Mashallah their ages are 33, 32 and 27 years respectively. It shall be noted that my sons completed their business degrees from reputable universities in the United States and have had well-paying jobs." ("Asim Bajwa decides to resign as SAPM," The Express Tribune, 4 September 2020)

Response from the government
Shibli Faraz, Minister for Information and Broadcasting said that Bajwa took a respectable decision to end the controversy.  ("Asim Saleem Bajwa took decision to end controversy, says Shibli Faraz," The News International, 4 September 2020). 

According to the latest report published by the News, Imran Khan has refused to accept the resignation. The note says: "PM Imran Khan is satisfied with the proof and justification given by Lt Gen (retd) Asim Bajwa, therefore he has directed him to continue working as the special Assistant." ("PM Imran satisfied with Asim Bajwa's explanation, refuses to accept resignation," The News, 4 September 2020)

 
The Opposition has decided to hold an all-parties conference on 20 September (Image Source: Dawn)

Opposition's APC scheduled for 20 September

Finally, a consensus
The Rehbar Committee meeting by the leaders of the opposition parties was held on 3 September. During the meeting, they agreed to hold an All-Parties Conference (APC) on 20 September at Zardari House in Islamabad. Raja Pervez Ashraf, Sherry Rehman, Farhatullah Babar and Nayyar Bokhari of the PPP, Ahsan Iqbal of the PML-N, Usman Kakar of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) and Dr Jahanzaib Jamaldini of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) were present at the briefing.

Rehbar Committee's convener and senior leader of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) Akram Durrani announced the decision at a press briefing following the committee's meeting at his residence. The leaders including former PM and PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, former interior minister and PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal and MNA and JUI leader Akram Khan Durrani criticized the incumbent PTI-led government for "destroying" Pakistan in its two years of rule. ("Rehbar Committee meeting: Opposition's APC to be held at Islamabad's Zardari House on 20th," The News International,4 September 2020) 

Statements from the leaders
JUI's Durrani said, "The situation in the country has reached a stage where we cannot afford even a moment's delay". Calling the 2018 general elections "a disgrace to the whole country", he added, "We want free and fair elections in the country, with no interference whatsoever". Durrani said the Opposition felt that giving more time to PTI would be an injustice to Pakistan. 

PPP's Ashraf said, "The APC will decide whether there will be a new election or an in-house change." He added, "we will not back down on any legislation in the country's interest and present our amendments to laws in the proposed legislation that are in conflict with human rights". 

PML-N's Ahsan Iqbal criticized PM Khan and said the PTI government was "constantly spreading anarchy in Pakistan". "How can the prime minister taunt us by saying we speak India's narrative on the FATF? How can he say the Opposition and India have the same position regarding the FATF?" he asked.

However, the smaller parties criticize PPP and PML-N
According to Dawn, during the Rehbar Committee's meeting, smaller parties, mainly Baluchistan's nationalist parties, slammed PPP and PML-N for their roles during PTI's rule and held them accountable for the Opposition's disunity and discord. PkMAP Senator Usman Kakar was the most vociferous. Nationalist leaders disapproved of PML-N and PPP for facilitating the Center's passage of the FATF-related bills in the parliament. ("Much-delayed opposition moot now slated for 20th," Dawn,4 September 2020)

A critique by the Nation editorial
It is a panel that handles the joint efforts of the different opposition parties to take a united stand against the Center. However, it has not achieved much since PTI took power in July 2018. The Opposition has been unable to put pressure on the federal government. Rehbar Committee has extracted a formal written commitment from PPP and PML-N. A move considered a success. However, The Nation opines that the upcoming APC must be "viewed with some skepticism". ("Another APC," The Nation, 4 September 2020) 

 
Imran Khan says he has an excellent relations with the military leadership (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 
INTERNAL
PM Imran Khan says that the military fully supports the government
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that his relationship with the army's top brass was "most harmonious" stating, "we have an excellent relationship [with the army's top brass]. I honestly think it is the most harmonious relationship. We have complete coordination, we work together, the military completely stands by all the democratic government's policies whether it is with India, whether it is for a peaceful solution in Afghanistan...everywhere the military stands by us." Further, in response to why senior military officers were being given civilian responsibilities he stated, "This is a democratic government. We won an election ... we challenge anyone to question the election. We asked the opposition name us any constituencies which you think you didn't get a fair result we are ready to open them up." (Azfar-ul-Ashfaque, "Military fully backs govt policies, says Imran," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

Officer and two soldiers killed in an attack in North Waziristan
On 3 September, in a terrorist attack on security forces in North Waziristan, an army officer and two soldiers were killed, while four soldiers were injured. In a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations, the terrorists planted an improvised explosive device on a roadside. It went off near a convoy of troops protecting road construction teams working on Ghariom section of Shaga-Nishpa road in North Waziristan. The area has been cordoned off by security forces who have launched a search operation. ("Officer, two soldiers martyred in North Waziristan attack," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

ECONOMY
Exports drop by 20 per cent in August
On 4 September, data released by the Ministry of Commerce showed that Pakistan's exports plunged by 19.5 per cent year-on-year in August. During the second month of FY21, export proceeds were reported at $1.586 billion, as against $1.969billion over the corresponding period of last year. Between July and August, exports fell by 7.1 per cent to $3.584 billion, from $3.858 billion over the corresponding months of last year. However, despite the decline in overall exports proceeds in August, some of the products such as tractors, iron and steel, chemicals and cement have reported a growth of 186 per cent, 100 per cent, 90 per cent and 30 per cent, respectively. The exports have gone back to a downward trend after witnessing a slight growth in July. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, "Exports plunge 20pc in August," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

Investment opportunities in Balochistan
Balochistan Board of Investment's Chief Execu­tive Farman Zar­koon said Baluchistan provides ample opportunities for foreign investment. "Foreign investment will boost industrial and economic activities in the province as well as provide employment to a large number of people. In order to highlight investment opportunities in the province and attract American investors, the Balochistan Board of Investment has organized a programme on Monday. American investors and the business community will be briefed through a digital conference," Zarkoon said. According to him, the conference would be attended by Jumpstart Pakis­tan Founder and CEO Okhram Zubair, US Consul General in Houston Abrar Hashmi, 92 Capital founder Jahangir Abbas Awan, Houston Consulate Trade Attache Shaista Bunyad and the US business community and investors.("Opportunities exist for investment in Balochistan," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Appointment of defence lawyer for Jadhav reaches Impasse
According to Dawn, India's "uninterest in securing relief" for Khulbhushan Jadhav, has resulted in a deadlock regarding the appointment of a defence lawyer for Jadhav to represent his case before the Islamabad High Court (IHC). The IHC bench, comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, opined that the judicial review would prove futile, if there was lack of cooperation from Jadhav's side. The court emphasized the paramount importance of protecting rights of Jadhav. ("Deadlock in appointment of defence lawyer for Indian spy," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

Grindr expresses disappointment on the government's decision to block the app
On 3 September, dating app Grindr said it was disappointed by Pakistan's decision to block the app and four other such applications after deeming them to be sources of "immoral content". Grindr's chief operating officer Rick Marini told Reuters via an emailed statement "We are deeply disappointed by the ... decision to ban Grindr and other dating apps that allow Pakistani citizens to connect with others on our platforms". The company was referring to the Pakistan Telecommunications Auth­o­rity's recent decision to remove "dating services" such as Tinder, Grindr, Tagged, Skout and SayHi to regulate live-streamed content in accordance with Pakistan's local laws. ("Grindr 'disappointed' by PTA decision," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

Islamabad regrets UN sanctions regime's politicization
On 3 September, after five UN Security Council members blocked Pakistan's bid to get two Indians accused of terrorism listed, Islamabad expressed regret regarding the politicization of the United Nations sanctions regime. At the media briefing, Foreign Office spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said: "We regret the decision by some members of the UNSC Sanctions Committee to block the designation of two Indian nationals, Gobinda Patnaik and Angara Appaji, to the sanctions list on 2 September 2020". Pakistan had proposed the designation of Patnaik and Appaji under the United Nations Security Council's Islamic State of Iraq and Levant and Al Qaeda Sanctions list in 2019. ("Pakistan regrets politicization of UN sanctions regime," Dawn, 4 September 2020)

 


"We have an excellent relationship [with the army’s top brass]. I honestly think it is the most harmonious relationship. We have complete coordination, we work together, the military completely stands by all the democratic government’s policies whether it is with India, whether it is for peaceful solution in Afghanistan...everywhere the military stands by us"

-  Imran Khan on Civil-Military relations.

 

 


Shabaz Sharif meets Zardari during his Karachi Visit; On Nawaz Sharif's return


Photo: Dawn



What happened?
On 2 September, as a part of his Karachi visit, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz president Shahbaz Sharif and other PML-N stalwarts Ahsan Iqbal, Marriyum Aurangzeb, Mohammad Zubair and Miftah Ismail visited the Bilawal house to meet with former president Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and senior PPP leaders to discuss Pakistan’s political situation. The leaders of the main opposition parties decided to convene a Rehbar Committee meeting on 3 September to schedule a multiparty conference to derive a roadmap to oust the incumbent Imran Khan-led PTI government through legal and constitutional means. During the meeting, the leaders of both parties agreed to work together “for the supremacy of the Constitution and parliament, for free judiciary and free media; the protection of the democratic process and the protection of the constitutional and democratic rights of the people.”Shahbaz also visited the rain hit areas and the Edhi home. (“Shahbaz reaches out to Zardari in Karachi visit,” Dawn, 3 September 2020)

Karachi: The new political cash cow 
Sharif’s day-long Karachi visit primarily aimed at expressing solidarity with the people of Sindh who were facing the devastating calamity caused by the record-breaking rains and urban flooding. However, Karachi has turned into the hot spot for political mileage as leaders are frequenting the city. Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar and the COAS Gen Bajwa had also visited Karachi to express solidarity with the flood victims. As per reports, PM Khan will also be visiting the city soon.

Statements & Press Conferences
Regarding the meeting, PPP’s Twitter handle said important issues were discussed and “reiterated [launching] a democratic struggle against the government”. The Bilawal House issued a statement saying that “top opposition leaders of the country were in consensus that all the constitutional options would be used to get rid of the incumbent ineligible government, as its failures and incompetence have become a torment for the country and the people”. The statements said that PML-N and PPP strongly condemned the political revenge by the incumbent government under the facade of accountability.

PML-N leaders Ahsan Iqbal and Maryam Aurganzeb and PPP leaders Farhatullah Babar and Naveed Qamar jointly held a media briefing later. PMLN and PPP dismissed talks of a potential Presidential system and question the PTI as to why funds approved for Karachi were ceased. (“Shahbaz calls on Zardari, Bilawal in Karachi: PML-N, PPP agree on APC, Ehtesab, anti-govt drive,”The News International, 3 September 2020)

Media opines
Dawn’s Red Zone Files looks at the unholy alliance of the rivals. “Something is cooking in Karachi. Plans are big, promises bigger. Neither are new. So what’s different this time?” asks the article. With respect to the newly crafted action plan for Karachi, it says that expecting PTI, PPP and MQM “to join hands is expecting almost too much”. According to Dawn, the Opposition’s stand will remain unclear and complicated; thus, favoring PTI and Imran Khan. (“RED ZONE FILES: Team of rivals?,” Dawn, 3 September 2020)
 

 
Islamabad High Court has recently asked Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan (Image Source: Dawn)

On Nawaz Sharif's return

The News says Nawaz’s mass appeal is unlikely to diminish which is why the govt should weigh its options carefully 
An editorial in the News International in response to the Islamabad High Court’s decision directing PML-N head Nawaz Sharif to return to the country and face charges against him in the Al Azizia reference case, or else be prepared to be declared an absconder states that what is to follow will is going to be relevant for Pakistan's politics and the future of a party. Further, the popular notion is that Nawaz is not likely to return to the country especially at this time. However, it is uncertain whether his mass appeal would diminish if he decides not to return, which is why the editorial states that the government will have to weigh its options carefully. (“A flight home?,” The News International, 3 September 2020)

Dawn says, Nawaz should return and take command of an incapacitated opposition
An editorial in Dawn states that as the debate of Nawaz’s return enters another complicated phase with unfamiliar medical terms clash with the legal jargon thrown in by the opposing lawyers, the political choice before one of the most significant and popular leaders should be straightforward which is, accept the challenge and return to take command of an opposition that has been stuck in a rut. The editorial says that as far as PLM-N is considered it makes more political sense if Nawaz returns, thus prohibiting the entire ruling set-up comprising Prime Minister Imran Khan, the PTI and government allies who regularly aim at a confused and divided PML-N. Further, the editorial strongly notes that any unwarranted step at this juncture would appear to seek some kind of relief from the system under would depict a sign of weakness to many in the crowd. Thus concluding, “the politically savvy would say this is a time for standing with and ahead of others against what the Pakistani opposition calls witch-hunting.” (“Time to come back,” Dawn, 3 September 2020)

The Context
On 1 September, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed Nawaz “to surrender” and appear before the court by before the next hearing scheduled for 10 September, if not he would have to face legal proceedings for absconding. During the hearing, Justice Farooq stated, “we are not declaring Nawaz an absconder at the moment. But how can the appeal be heard in his absence?” adding that the court was giving him “one more chance to surrender” adding, "We are not making a final decision as yet.” Further, a division bench of the high court comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Aamer Farooq directed the deputy attorney general to verify the medical condition of Sharif through the Pakistani High Commission in London. (“Tahir Naseer, “IHC tells Nawaz to 'surrender', appear before court on Sept 10,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)
To the court’s decision, Khawaja Haris Ahmed, the counsel for Nawaz, argued that Nawaz could not return to the country due to the coronavirus pandemic and with PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz stating that her father will get back as soon his treatment was over and only after the doctors give him a clean bill of health. (“Maryam Nawaz insists Nawaz Sharif to get back only after full treatment,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

 
 (Image Source: Dawn)

In Brief 
INTERNAL
Rains in KP claim 23 lives 
On 2 September, the torrential rains experienced by various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa left many injured and claimed the lives of 23 people. As per Dawn, most casualties were reported from the Hazara division’s upper parts, where over 19 people lost their lives. Malakand division’s Buner district saw four others die.(“Devastating Khyber Pakhtunkhwa rains claim 23 lives,” Dawn, 3 September 2020)

COAS says that the Army will do its best to help the Centre and Sindh to address Karachi’s problems
On 1 September, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Qamar Javed Bajwa, has stated that the Army will do its utmost to help and assist the federal and provincial governments to address the issues of Karachi. The COAS gave this assurance while he was addressing a cross-section of the trade and commerce leaders. Further, the COAS stated that a committee comprising federal and provincial governments has been established will focus on addressing the issues of the city. Further, he stated that the Pakistan Army was doing its bidding to address the civic problems, adding that army serves and supports the political government and they would do their utmost to help both the provincial and federal governments. (“Army to help Centre, Sindh to address Karachi’s problems,” The News International, 3 September 2020)

PM Imran Khan says that the Opposition and India are in sync on FATF
On 2 September, Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that the opposition and India were on the same page on the issue of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) stressing that both the opposition and India was making every effort to put Pakistan in the FATF blacklist. While addressing a meeting of the government and party spokespersons, he said, “in a democracy, the opposition has an important role to play for the country. The opposition is prioritising personal interest over national interest.” Further, in reference to Nawaz Sharif, he stated that the government would not compromise on the manifesto of accountability. (“Opposition and India in sync on FATF: PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 3 September 2020)

FM and SPD Chief discuss nuclear diplomacy
On 2 September, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Director General of the Strategic Plans Division Lt Gen Nadeem Zaki Manj discussed nuclear diplomacy. Qureshi is also the deputy chairman of the Employment Control Committee of the National Command Authority that provides civilian oversight over development, production, research and use of nuclear and space technologies and related applications. This is the second publicly disclosed meeting between Gen Manj and top civilian leadership in the last 10 days. Previously, he met with PM Khan on 22 August to brief the head on the Strategic Plans Division (SPD).(“SPD chief discusses nuclear diplomacy with FM,” Dawn, 3 September 2020)

Interior Minister asks US blogger Cynthia to leave Pakistan in 15 days
On 2 September, the interior ministry declined the application to extend the visa of Cynthia Dawn Ritchie, a US blogger who has been residing in Pakistan for over a decade, asking her to leave the country within 15 days. Ms Ritchie’s last visa, issued in March 2019, expired on 2 March 2020, the rejection of her application comes a day after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) expressed its dissatisfaction over the interior ministry’s recent order related to the validity of her visa and gave the government a final opportunity to render proper assistance. After the announcement by the Interior Ministry, Ms Richie via a tweet stated, “The MoI -under pressure best known to them- has for the first time, in my over 10+ years in Pakistan, rejected my Visa application. No reason has been given. We have a right to file an appeal & will do so. A higher forum must entertain my application & upon merits grant visa.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “US blogger Cynthia told to leave Pakistan in 15 days,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
China to allow the arrival of flights from eights countries including Pakistan
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) released a statement saying “Starting September 3, international passenger flights to Beijing, which previously had their entry points diverted, will gradually resume”. Nature of the passengers’ nationality hasn’t been specified. However, passengers would have to undergo centralised quarantine on arrival for 14 days and take two Covid-19 tests. This resuming of direct international flights is after a freeze of over five months.(“China allows flights into Beijing from Pakistan, seven other countries,” Dawn, 3 September2020)

 


"The meeting of [opposition’s] Rehbar Committee is being convened tomorrow [Thursday] as time has come to finalise and announce the date of an all-party conference"

-  PPP leader Naveed Qamar on Shabaz-Zardari meeting in Karachi.

 

 


Court directs Nawaz Sharif to appear before the court


Photo: Dawn



On 1 September, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif “to surrender” and appear before the court by before the court at the next hearing scheduled for 10 September, if not he would have to face legal proceedings for absconding. During the hearing, Justice Farooq stated, “we are not declaring Nawaz an absconder at the moment. But how can the appeal be heard in his absence?” adding that the court was giving him “one more chance to surrender” adding, "We are not taking a final decision as yet.” Further, a division bench of the high court comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Aamer Farooq directed the deputy attorney general to verify the medical condition of Sharif through the Pakistani High Commission in London. (“Tahir Naseer, “IHC tells Nawaz to 'surrender', appear before court on Sept 10,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

The IHC bench was hearing the appeals of Nawaz, his daughter Maryam and her husband, Safdar, against their convictions in the Avenfield reference. The bench also heard an appeal filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) against Sharif's acquittal in the Flagship reference as well as appeals against his conviction in the Al-Azizia reference. (Malik Asad, Atika Rehman, “Nawaz’s sojourn in London may end soon,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

Arguing against the decision
Appearing before the bench, Khawaja Haris Ahmed, the counsel for Nawaz, argued that the high court had suspended the sentence awarded to the appellant and granted bail for eight weeks with the observation that if it was to be extended the same should be done by the Punjab government under Section 401(2) of the Criminal Procedure Code. Further, he argued that Nawaz could not return to the country due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Further, PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz while talking to media after the hearing stated that her father will get back as soon his treatment was over and doctors gave him a clean bill of health, adding, “his treatment is going on; it got delayed due to the coronavirus. Nobody wants to be away from their home country at such an age.” Further, she stated, “the case against my father should have been dismissed after decision by the court in Judge Arshad Malik case.” (“Maryam Nawaz insists Nawaz Sharif to get back only after full treatment,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

Statement from PM Imran Khan
Earlier last week, Prime Minister Imran Khan directed the use of all legal means to bring Nawaz back from the UK adding that it was the responsibility of the government to bring back all those wanted by the courts. He added that that allowing him to leave the country was a “mistake” and that his government “regretted” this decision. Further, he stated that the government was pressurised into sending Nawaz abroad, saying that the reports presented to the government suggested that the PML-N supremo was severely ill. He also stated that the court had declared that the government would be responsible, should anything happen to Nawaz, adding, "Now we feel embarrassed. Now he [Nawaz] has started doing politics [from] there as well and, when you see him, it seems like there is nothing [wrong] with him.” (“Allowing Nawaz to leave was a 'mistake', says PM Imran,”Dawn, 2 September 2020)

Controversy relating to his departure and stay in the UK
Nawaz who was serving a seven-year jail term following his conviction in the Al-Azizia reference was last year allowed to leave for London on bail for medical reasons after he was diagnosed with an immune system disorder. However, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Accountability and Interior Shahzad Akbar stated that Nawaz's four-week bail on medical grounds expired in December 2019 and the government had already approached the UK government for his extradition.

The government has been under pressure especially since May, after a picture of Nawaz having tea at a London cafe along with his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on the seriousness of his health condition. Later, photos surfaced online, showing him strolling in a street instigation calls from within the ruling PTI to bring him back.

 
A residential area in Karachi (Image Source: Dawn)

Karachi: Civilian and Military leadership come together to address the problems 
Prime Minister Imran Khan is to announce a major package for a solution to Karachi’s problems on 4 September (Friday), as the federal cabinet deliberated on key national matters, including extraordinary spells of rain in the country with a focus on the city. While briefing the media, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting stated that a strategy has been formulated for implementation of the projects, which also includes responsibility adding that without ownership nothing would be possible. He added that the PM was going to Karachi on Friday, the federation was providing resources for the package in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the project would be launched with the Sindh government on-board. Further, the minister stated, “at the moment, prime minister’s concern and attention is on Karachi city. The federal government is doing what it can and will continue doing so, as Karachi has a unique importance, though all cities have their importance, for it is the economic hub of Pakistan.” Further, the minister added that the PM has been monitoring the issue in Karachi closely. (“PM to visit Karachi on Friday, announce package, projects,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

COAS visits the rain wrecked city 
On 1 September, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa reached Karachi for a two-day-long visit. On his arrival, the COAS was flown over the city for aerial reconnaissance of the ground impact of urban flooding in Karachi. He then visited the Karachi Corps Headquarters where he was briefed about the worst urban flooding in the recent history of Karachi and army’s support to civil administration across Sindh, particularly in Karachi. Further, the COAS stated, “no city in Pakistan can cope with a natural calamity of this scale” adding, “Our issue is not non-availability of resources, but setting the priorities right.” Further, he stated that plans being made by the federal and provincial governments will have the army’s all-out support as it will have future repercussions on the economic security of the country, adding, “It's a national disaster and everyone is in it together.” (“COAS in Karachi: ‘No city can cope with such calamity,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

PSP unveils six-point plan to resolve the socio-economic and administrative issues in Karachi 
Pak Sarzameen Party Chairman Syed Mustafa Kamal has proposed a six-point plan to resolve the persistent socioeconomic and administrative issues of Karachi. (PSP unveils six-point plan to resolve Karachi’s socio-economic and administrative issues,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

First, the census is carried out transparently, the population of Karachi will turn out to be around 30 million. Thus, the number of seats in the national and provincial assemblies of Karachi should be increased.Second, the transfer of these powers and resources to the lowest level. Third, PFC award should be launched on the same formula as the NFC so that the funds could reach the districts, towns and UCs of the province. Fourth, the chief minister of Sindh’s decision of merging the Master Plan Department with the Sindh Building Control Authority in 2013 should be annulled. Fifth, the division of Karachi into seven districts should be abolished and the previous status of one district and 18 towns should be rehabilitated. Sixth, there should be one head of municipal services of the city. All 18 municipal services of cantonment board, DHA, KPT, Port Qasim, MDA, Site Limited, Railways, Civil Aviation and others should be de-notified following the Supreme Court orders.

So, how can Karachi be fixed?
An opinion in the News International critical of the notion of Karachi’s ‘uniqueness’ lays down three major points that will enable the governance of a city like Karachi. First, the idea of taking Karachi away from Sindh must be eliminated. Any ideas for Karachi that will trigger Sindhi anxiety or provoke the PPP into aggression or denial need should be rejected. The talk of new provinces or the idea of ‘separating’ Karachi from Sindh are all non-starters is not a solution as this problematise the idea of Sindh, and more widely Sindhi identity. Second, Pakistani city needs two structural guarantors, the first would be a federal law and the second would be provincial laws. Third, Pakistani cities must have public servants that are from their communities. Further, in the context of finance, cities require the establishment of federal funding mechanisms for key city functions. The opinion concludes by stating that if the solutions remain restricted to the cleaning of nullahs and the raising of ethnic dog-whistling and political victimhood, Karachi is only the first of many cities that will hamper and retard the growth of Pakistan. (Mosharraf Zaidi, “How to fix Karachi,” The News International, 2 September 2020)

 
 (Image Source: Dawn)

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, mending ties now?
On 1 September, Saudi envoy Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki said that Riyadh was looking to deepen ties with Pakistan. The Foreign Office’s statement following the meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki read “Highlighting the excellent relationship between the leadership of the two countries, the ambassador underlined that the kingdom would continue to work with Pakistan for further strengthening of bilateral relations”. Al-Malki reminded of the expanding Pak-Saudi cooperation across various areas. According to the FO, Mr Qureshi criticised Houthis’ attacks on Saudi Arabia, “underlined deep-rooted historic and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia”, “highlighted the kingdom’s traditional leadership role in Muslim Ummah” and extended good wishes to the health of the Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. “Views were also exchanged on important bilateral, regional and international developments,” the statement added. As per Dawn, various “behind-the-scenes diplomacy also took place for preventing what was being seen as a gulf in the positions of the two countries from widening.” (“Saudi envoy says kingdom wants better ties with Pakistan,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

The “Special Context”
The meeting was the first interaction between Al-Malki and Mr Qureshi since the latter’s criticism of the Saudi-led OIC regarding its inaction on the Kashmir issue and the procrastination of the Pakistan-requested Council of Foreign Ministers meeting by the 57-member bloc of Muslim countries. There has been a visible change in Pakistan’s tone on OIC since the COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa’s Riyadh-visit; a trip ISPR said was for discussing military cooperation.
 


In Brief
INTERNAL
Ex-ETPB asks Dr AQ Khan to withdraw blackmail charges
On 1 September, while addressing a press conference, the former Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Siddique Al-Farooq has asked the nuclear scientist, Dr AQ Khan, to withdraw blackmailing charges against him within three days in media or face court. The latter had accused Farooq of receiving Rs20 million after blackmailing him. Farooq said that in 2015 then PM Nawaz Sharif and then Punjab CM Shahbaz Sharif had directed him to facilitate the nuclear scientist as per law. He claimed that an agreement was signed between Dr. Khan and himself for the lease of a 15 kanal and 3 marla plot in Zaman Park, Lahore. As per Farooq’s statement, Rs20m (the lease amount) was deposited by writer and columnist Jabbar Mirza in the then ETPB Farooq’s account, following which Dr A Q Khan hospital was established in the building of Ahbab Hospital, a property illegally built on ETPB’s land. (“Dr Qadeer asked to withdraw charges against ex-ETPB chief,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

PTA bans five dating apps
On 1 September, as a part of the ongoing online clampdown on “immoral” content, the Pakistan Telecommunication Autho¬rity (PTA) blocked access to five more applications - Tinder, Tagged, Skout, Grindr and SayHi. Through an official statement the PTA confirmed the blocking of the applications. It said, “Keeping in view the negative effects of immoral/indecent content streaming through the above applications, PTA issued notices to the management of above-mentioned platforms”. The stated purpose was to “remove” dating services and regulate online content in accordance with Pakistani laws. (“Govt bans five more apps to curb ‘immoral content’,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

ANP and PPP pledge to work together
According to Dawn, during a telephonic conversation on 1 September, President of the Awami Nat­ional Party’s (ANP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chap­ter and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zar­dari expressed concerns over “the federal government’s act of abandoning the people of Sindh” during devastating calamities caused by natural disasters and vowed to strive to maintain unity among the opposition. They discussed Pakistan’s prevailing political situation and the role of progressive parties. (“PPP, ANP vow to work together,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

IPP agreement fails
Following the signing of their MoUs with the government’s negotiation committee for tariff reduction, significant differences have risen between the independent power producers (IPPs). Due to “mutual mistrust” two blocs of IPPs have clashed with each other and Khalid Mansour, the head of IPP Advisory Committee (IPPAC) has resigned. The MOU had agreed to reduce the returns to be given to the IPP sponsors and reduce the returns’ dollar indexation. The agreement was hailed as a signature achievement by the government. (“Agreement with IPPs in choppy waters,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pages and Accounts ‘operated from Pakistan’ removed by Facebook
As per Facebook’s announcement on 1 September, the company has removed 453 Facebook accounts, 103 Pages, 78 groups and 107 Instagram accounts being operated from Pakistan. Facebook stated “coordinated inauthentic behaviour” as the reason. The company removes online content for ‘coordinated behaviour’ when there are deceitful misleading domestic, non-governmental campaigns that rely on fake accounts. Individuals behind this network of pages and accounts – some claiming to be from/based in India – posted and managed Indian military fanpages and groups, the statement said.(“Facebook removes network of accounts, pages ‘operated from Pakistan’,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

Editorial says Af-Pak Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity could enhance bilateral ties
A Dawn Editorial says Pak-Afghan ties have been less that cordial in recent times, despite a shared border and “historical, cultural and demographic ties”. It maps out the ups and downs in the bilateral relationship from the pro-Soviet period (looking at contrasting ideological blocs) to the current times of the Afghan peace deal. It hails the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity, which commenced in 2018, as an opportunity to mend bilateral ties in a “mutually beneficial manner”. On 31 August, bilateral meetings were convened in Kabul where Pakistan’s foreign secretary led the country’s delegation and reiterated that intra-Afghan peace must be achieved through “perseverance and unflinching commitment”. The framework includes a plethora of areas – political, diplomatic, military, economic and so on. The article states that such high-level delegations could bring down mutual mistrust and grudge, while molding a constructive relationship. The article further identifies the presence of the Islamic State as a mutual threat. (“Pak-Afghan dialogue,” Dawn, 2 September 2020)

 


"Admittedly, the appellant is not on bail and is also not present in the court but has made an application for exemption from appearance due to medical reasons. It is not out of place to observe that the appellant did not inform this court when he proceeded abroad or his name of 2019 was removed from the Exit Control List (ECL)"

-  IHC on Nawaz Sharif

 

 


Rains and Floods continue to haunt Pakistan


Photo: Dawn



PMD warns against floods in Pakistan’s Northern parts
On 31 August, the Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) issued a flood warning for the northern parts of Pakistan. The PMD predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Kabul River’s catchment areas and the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan division. The alert by PMD’s Flood Forecasting Division said "According to latest hydro-meteorological situation, monsoon has become active over Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kashmir producing widespread thunderstorm/rains." The Punjab CM’s focal person on digital media Azhar Mashwani tweeted the alert.(“PMD issues significant flood warning for northern parts of the country,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

Editorial critiques the Center’s inaction
An editorial criticizes Pakistan’s government of inaction during the rampaging floods that has proven a devastating calamity that has put the people of the country in a dire situation. Although, the article critiques that all government actions have been limited to press statements, it acknowledges a shift in the Center’s policy towards Karachi’s floods. “Imran Khan said he wanted a “Karachi Transformation Plan” finalised soon, while earlier he had stated that the centre would “not abandon” Karachi in times of crises,” it states. The new plan would focus on “the city’s key issues — solid waste management, water shortage, matters related to water and sewerage as well as transport”. The editorial also deemed the SLGA 2013 a “miserable failure” in Karachi. (“Plan for Karachi,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

 
A residential area in Karachi (Image Source: Dawn)

In-Brief
INTERNAL
Three policemen injured when a mobile van was hit by an IED 
On 31 August, three policemen were injured when a mobile van of Haya Serai police station was hit by an improvised explosive device in Maidan area while on a routine patrol. Soon after the incident, the law enforcement agencies personnel cordoned off the area and started a search operation. The incident is said to have spread fear and panic in the locality with this being the second attack against police during the current month. (“Three injured as bomb targets police mobile in Dir,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

Three soldiers killed in a militant attack in South Waziristan 
On 30 August, a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations stated that three soldiers were martyred and while four were injured after militants attacked a patrolling party in South Waziristan tribal district. Further, local officials stated that troops were patrolling a hilly area in the Kazkai region of Ladha tehsil when terrorists opened fire at them. South Waziristan has witnessed an increase in attacks on security forces like the adjacent North Waziristan tribal district. (Dilawar Khan Wazir, “Three soldiers martyred in S. Waziristan attack,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

Commander a banned organisation was shot dead in Mastung district
On 31 August, an alleged commander of a banned organisation was shot dead in Mastung district of Balochistan. A spokesman for the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) stated along with them, other law enforcement agencies conducted a joint operation in the Paringabad area of Mastung district. Further, the spokesman stated that when the personnel of CTD and other law enforcement agencies cordoned off the commander’s hideout his accomplices started firing. The security forces then returned fire and in the following exchange of fire, the banned outfit’s commander died on the spot. The deceased was said to be involved in the murder of Nawabzada Siraj Raisani, a leader of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), in a suicide attack and other terrorist activities. (Saleem Shahid, “Banned outfit’s leader killed in Mastung,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

KP Assembly Speaker expels JUI-F member
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly’s Speaker Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani expelled Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl member from South Waziristan tribal district Hafiz Isamuddin from the house (for a single day) for threatening to bomb the assembly’s building. The Speaker’s order read, “In exercise of powers conferred upon me under sub-rule (2) of Rule 227 of the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Procedure and Conduct of Business Rules, 1988, I do hereby order to withdraw Mr Isamuddin, MPA forthwith from the House on account of his misconduct — threatened the MPAs, this August House and precinct of the assembly. The words he (Isamuddin) uttered on a point of order were disgusting, threatening and breach of privilege of all members of the assembly, this August House and so forth the people of the province.” The assembly also passed a resolution against Hafiz. Previously, the lawmaker from PK-113 had threatened to bomb the assembly after criticizing the inefficiency of security forces in clearing landmines from an area in his constituency. (“JUI-F member expelled from PA over threatening remarks,” Dawn, 1 September 2020)

Maryam appears before IHC for the Avenfield hearing
On 1 September, PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz appeared before the IHC for the hearing of the Avenfield Apartments review petition. The IHC will hear appeals filed by Nawaz Sharif, his son-in-law captain Muhammad Safdar and Maryam Sharif against their convictions in the Avenfield reference. The Courtroom barred the entry of non-relevant persons, including PML-N supporters and workers. (“Maryam Nawaz appears before IHC for Avenfield review petition hearing,” The News International, 1 September 2020)

 
 (Image Source: Dawn)

EXTERNAL
Foreign Minister Qureshi met with the Saudi ambassador in Pakistan 
On 31 August, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met the Saudi ambassador in Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki where the two discussed bilateral cooperation in various sectors and different issues of mutual interests. During the meeting, Foreign Minister Qureshi stated that Pakistan and the kingdom of Saudi Arabia enjoyed strong and deeply rooted historic relations and Islamabad would always stand shoulder to shoulder with its brotherly country. Further, he added that sanctity of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques had been a part of the belief of every Muslim. Further, he reiterated that Pakistan strongly condemned Houthi militia’s attempts to target civilian population and military installations in Saudi Arabia. (“FM Qureshi, Saudi ambassador discuss issues of mutual interest,” The News International, 1 September 2020)

 


"Extreme weather events happen all over the globe, yet damage is mitigated by planning ahead and ensuring that all humanly possible measures are taken to protect lives and property. But in Karachi’s case, these measures are mostly limited to press statements — or the distinct lack of them — and the federal, provincial and local governments seem far more interested in attacking each other’s performance than in solving the city’s problemsl"

-  Editorial, Dawn

 

 


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