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Daily Briefs

PTI to hold march against PPP government in February


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
PROVINCES
Sindh: PTI to hold march against PPP in February
On 30 January, federal Minister for Marine Affairs Ali Haider and other PTI leaders terming the PPP rule in Sindh as a ‘bandit rule’ announced the launching of a mass movement from Feb 26, a day before PPP’s planned long march on Islamabad. He said, “Prime Minister Imran Khan is clear about this and confident that this bandit rule in Sindh should end. And for that, the PTI Sindh is going to launch a massive movement from Feb 26 to reach out to every single person in the province and unite the people against this unjust rule of corruption and bad governance.” He added that the long march would lead to the fall of the “Zardari mafia” and put the PTI in charge of the provincial government in 2023. (Imran Ayub, “PTI to hold long march against Sindh govt on Feb 26,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

Balochistan: 17 injured in grenade attack in Jaffarabad
On 30 January, over 17 people were injured in a grenade attack in Dera Allahyar town of Jaffarabad district. According to the police, unknown motorcyclists threw a hand-grenade near Subatpur Chowk. No group has claimed responsibility for the grenade attack. However, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo condemned the incident and described it as an act of terrorism. (Ali Jan Mangi, “Two cops among 17 injured in grenade attack in Balochistan's Jaffarabad,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Armed assailants open fire on priests in Peshawar
On 30 January, a priest was shot dead in Peshawar, while another was injured in the same incident.  William Siraj was a padre at a church within Chamkani police station limits. Reacting to the incident PPP senator Sherry Rehman tweeted “Terrorism that targets anyone, especially for their faith, is heinous and must be fought against with the full force of [a] clear, concerted policy and state power. No compromise, no equivocation,". (Sirajuddin, “Priest shot dead, another injured in Peshawar,” Dawn31 January 2022)

POLITICS
The political front gets into a pre-election fever
On 30 January, PPP Chairman called upon the people of Punjab to kick out the current PTI government from the parliament in Sargodha. He said, “Imran Khan, I am telling you, once you are out of office, you will find no place to hide,”. JUI supremo Maulana Fazlur Rehman reiterated the all-opposition parties in PDM were still united. Meanwhile, Asad Umar, central Secretary-General of PTI,  also announced that PTI will launch an agitation drive against the newly-enacted Sindh Local Government (Amendment) Act-2021. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Ali Zaidi said if PPP made a long march for Punjab, OTI should also organise a march to Sindh and there will a ‘claw test’ once the marching parties meet on the way. (“Imran will find no place to hide: Bilawal,” The News International, 31 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Government issues notification to submit budget proposals for FY 2022-23
On 31 January, the ministry of commerce and finance asked all the stakeholders in the government to submit the budget proposals latest by 28 February. “Wherever required, the proposal may be supported with the statistical data, etc., so that it is not dropped on account of any such infirmity,” the memorandum said. The stakeholders have been directed to keep in mind the medium-term indicative budget ceilings (IBCs) issued by the finance ministry for current and development budgets for three years — 2021-22, 2022-23 and 2023-24. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt entities asked to submit budget proposals by Feb 28,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

Qureshi convivial with PPP indirect support for SBP session
On 30 January, Foreign Minister told reporters that PTI expects similar session’s performance of PPP as it helped the PTI to narrowly pass the SBP amendment. He made this statement in Multan, the revered capital of revered province South Punjab. The government has also introduced the bill regarding creation of South Punjab Province. Stating on external relations he shared that foreign ministers of Islamic countries were being invited for a meeting on March 22 and 23 to discuss the issues faced by the Ummah. (Malik Tahseen Raza, “Qureshi expects more SBP-session like favours from PPP, Dawn31 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
CJP Gulzar is leaving behind the legacy of an anti-encroachment drive, says report

On 31 January, The Express Tribune reported that as the Chief Justice of Pakistan Gulzar Ahmed is set to retire on 1 February, he will be leaving behind the legacy of an anti-encroachment drive in the biggest city of the country, Karachi. The report stated that when he assumed the position, there were around 42,000 cases pending in the Supreme Court, the number has now reached above 53,200, claiming that Justice Gulzar could not evolve a strategy to reduce the pending cases. Additionally, despite his harsh remarks and observations against the administration and the federal government functionaries, the chief justice did not pass any coercive order during his tenure. However, he made history by nominating Justice Ayesha Malik for her appointment as the first female judge of the Supreme Court. (“Justice Gulzar leaves behind a mixed legacy,” The Express Tribune, 31 January 2022)

Information minister urges the judiciary to take stock of its rapidly declining reputation in the world rankings
On 30 January, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry while referring a report released by the World Justice Project (WJP) urged the judiciary to take stock of its rapidly declining reputation in the world rankings. He said via Twitter, “The judiciary needs to take stock of its rapidly declining reputation in the world rankings. It will be a big challenge for new chief justice when he swears in.” (“Fawad Chaudhry asks judiciary to improve image,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

ON AFGHANISTAN
NSA Yusuf concluded his two-day visit to Kabul
On 30 January, National Security Adviser Dr Moeed Yusuf concluded his two-day visit to Kabul. During his visit, he met with senior Taliban officials and discussed matters related to the humanitarian requirements and Pakistan’s proposals for strengthening economic engagement to help Afghanistan tackle financial challenges. The two sides have decided to establish a national-level coordination mechanism for enhancing facilitation at border crossing points and also pledged to initiate modalities for barter trade initiative. Additionally, both sides also reiterated their commitment to early completion of three major connectivity projects CASA-1000, TAPI, and Trans-Afghan Rail project. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Islamabad, Kabul agree to ease border crossing,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

PAKISTAN’S GENDER DEBATE
Sindh: MQM holds women-only protest against Police Action
On 29 January a large number of women including human rights activists joined the demonstration led by MQM at the Teen Talwar traffic intersection. The demonstration also adopted a resolution rejecting the Sindh Local Government (Amendment) Bill 2021 and demanded action against police officers involved in manhandling and attacking MQM-P workers. (Imran Ayub, “Civil society joins MQM-P’s women-only protest against police action, Dawn, 31 January 2022)

Women constitute less than one per cent of the around 175,000 force in Punjab, says officer
On 31 January, Dawn reported that while the Punjab Police website states that there are around 4,000 policewomen on various posts, women constitute less than one per cent of the around 175,000 force in Punjab, says a senior officer. The station house officer (SHO) of Faisalabad’s lone women police station, Madiha Irshad says, “Every police station should cater to the entire population so they need to be strengthened and sensitised and not deal with a complainant based on their gender.” (Sheharyar Rizwan, “Sexism and gender imbalance in Punjab police force,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

ON PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
“AJK” leaders call demonstrations highlighting alleged rights violations in J&K
On 30 January, AJK President Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry during the All Parties Kashmir Conference decided that demonstrations and rallies will be held in Pakistan to highlight the Indian army’s alleged actions against the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the Kashmir issue will not be swept under the carpet and public meetings will be arranged in Islamabad while ‘monumental demonstrations’ will be organised in London, Brussels and New York as well. (Kashif Abbasi, “Major cities to witness demonstrations highlighting rights violations in IIOJK,” Dawn, 31 January 2022)

Additionally, he called on the UN Secretary-General to establish a commission of inquiry on the recommendations of the OHCHR report about the alleged human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir. (“UN urged to form commission to probe HR violations in IIOJK,” The Express Tribune, 31 January 2022)

Maulana Rehman asks Kashmiris not to pin hopes on PTI govt
On 30 January, Maulana Fazlur Rehman urged the people of Kashmir on both sides of the Line of Control not to pin their hopes on the PTI government. He said, “I suggest the people of Kashmir that they should not keep any hope with the Pakistan government. This government has made a deal over Kashmir.” Further, announcing that the JUI-F would organise different events to mark ‘Kashmir Day’ he said, “It’s so unfortunate that we ourselves have handed over Kashmir to India,” adding, “We ask the United Nations to wake up. We ask the world to get up. The people of Kashmir are as humans as those in other parts of the world.”

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“In parliament and on press conferences PTI Govt says the campaign favouring a presidential system is “fake news”. Then why is PTI-appointed KP Governor on tv trashing the parliamentary system and plugging presidential rule? The latter has proven disastrous for Pakistan.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary leader

“CJP Justice Gulzar is retiring today. The historic stand he has taken on minority places of worship has greatly enhanced his prestige, at a time when India's judiciary seems helpless at the hands of extremists like Justice Gulzar. Judges supported minorities and ruled independently”
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for information and Broadcasting

“The detailed decision of the Supreme Court in the case of Justice Qazi Faiz Issa is a charge sheet against the Minister of Law, the Prime Minister, and the President.”
-Ahsan Iqbal, Sec Gen of PML-N

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “State Bank’s role” discusses, with the progress of the SBP Amendment Bill,  there will be extreme changes in the “bank’s job description and its relations with the country’s fiscal authorities.”

An editorial in Dawn on “Prisoner’s escape” highlights the discriminatory criminal justice system in many provinces. In the latest incident, Sindh cops have been charged with “negligence” for letting the accused, charged with a high-profile kidnapping case, escape.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Dangerous online games” emphasizes the increasing threat of online games like PUBG, which have led “several youngsters to commit suicide, kill others and indulge in violence with their families on false notions”.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Reforming criminal justice system” says “Our criminal justice system is rotten and any number of reforms, however imperfect they may be, are welcome.”

An editorial in The News International titled “Plight of peasants” underlines the constant struggle faced by farmers and unfulfilled promises by successive governments. After the withdrawal of GST exemption on oilseed, fodder for cattle, hybrid seeds for maize and rice, the crisis has worsened.

An opinion in Dawn written by Zarrar Khuhro, in connection with Dua Manghi’s case, the accused was let free to shop in a mall, violating all rules and regulations. The author writes, “criminal justice system is broken by design and by the very people charged with safeguarding it.”

An opinion in Dawn concerning the 2021 Punjab Local Government Ordinance suggests that the “members of the assembly must decide whether they want history to remember them as importers of Acerbo’s elective despotism or as reformers who worked to strengthen local democracy by overturning these provisions.”

An opinion in Dawn by Maleeha Lodhi believes PM Khan's enraged reaction during a live event, Shahzad Akbar's departure, and mounting voices of dissent inside the party signal the government's growing anxiety and fear about its political future.

An opinion in The News Express writes “Pakistan’s decision to attend the Winter Olympics ceremony is a signal to the West that Pakistan stands with China.”

An opinion in The News International throws light on “the right and wrong of rebasing” and further states that “rebasing activity was long overdue but it has been executed badly and collectively.”

 



“Faced with challenges, the PM needs to repurpose his government and recast his team and party organization.”

-An opinion in Dawn on “Tough road ahead

 


Four security personnel killed in Bugti landmine blast


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Four security personnel killed in Bugti landmine blast
On 28 January, four security personnel were killed after their vehicle hit a landmine in Tali Mat area of Sui in Dera Bugti district. Senior government official Balach Aziz Baloch stated that the security personnel were hunting thieves in the area when they were "tricked" by militants into driving over the landmine. In another incident, six people were killed in different firing incidents in Chagai district and Quetta. (“Four martyred in Bugti landmine blast,” The Express Tribune, 29 January 2022)

Balochistan: The terrorists and their facilitators will not be spared, say CM
On 28 January, Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo while presiding over a high-level meeting on law and order warned that the elements challenging the writ of the state will be dealt with an iron hand. He said, “The terrorists and their facilitators who are carrying out attacks on innocent people and security forces to create unrest just for achieving their nefarious designs will not be spared and will be brought to justice.”  Further, he said, “Law enforcement agencies should hold monthly meetings with district administrations and activities of anti-state elements should be constantly monitored and their data checked in this regard.” (“CM reviews law and order situation in Balochistan,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

Punjab: PM decides to move SC against LHC ruling on Ravi Urban Development Project
On 28 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan during his visit to Lahore has decided to challenge the high court’s ruling over the Ravi Urban Development (RUDA) Project in the Supreme Court. Further, he stated that it was not true to consider it merely a housing scheme but it was a project aimed at removing the loopholes in building a city without planning.” (“Ravi Urban Development Project: PM decides to move SC against LHC ruling,” The News International, 29 January 2022)

Sindh: MQM-P and PTI reject JI-PPP agreement over LG law; JI terms it as a ‘starting point’
On 29 January, The News International reported that the MQM-P and PTI have rejected the deal between the PPP government and JI over amendments in the local government bill, claiming that the PPP leaders in the province have deceived the religious party’s leaders. An MQM-P's senior leader said, “Karachi residents and political parties never expected the JI to be so easily deceived,” adding, “I will ask JI Karachi chief Rehman to prepare a statement of regret, as now the PPP will not fulfill any promises.” (“MQM-P, PTI reject JI-Sindh govt agreement over LG law,” The News International, 29 January 2022)

Meanwhile, the JI Karachi chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said that the amendments in the disputed local bodies law would be the starting point for the rights of Karachi and its residents. He said, “It would be a turning point in the history of not only Karachi but also Pakistan.” (“JI terms changes in LG bill ‘a starting point’ for Karachi’s rights,” The News International, 29 January 2022)

INTERNAL
COAS points out the need to stay united to thwart designs of hostile forces
On 28 January, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa stressed on the need to stay united to thwart designs of hostile forces. Additionally, he said, "The spread of misinformation by vested interests is not only creating misperceptions but also threatening cohesion in the society." (“COAS stresses unity to thwart designs of hostile forces,” The News International, 29 January 2022)

Residents of Naval Farms moves IHC against the sealing order
On 28 January 18 residents of Naval Farms on Simly dam road moved Islamabad High Court filling an appeal to reconsider the verdict on sealing the property. The appeal mentioned that the residents were considered unheard as they were bona fide purchasers. The appeal filed stated “judgement takes a restrictive view of the constitutional mandate of the armed forces and did not fully consider the implications…as the same was tantamount to declaring all housing societies ever created by the armed forces illegal and void ab initio along with schools, universities and hospitals ever set up by the armed forces of Pakistan in the national interest and for the welfare of the citizens.” (Malik Asad, “18 residents approach IHC against naval farms verdict,” Dawn29 January 2022)

President Alvi directs early completion of E-Solutions
On 28 January President Arif Alvi told the officials to speed up process of parliament’s digital transformation project. The project will help in quick disposal of legislative business. Separately Retired Brig Musaddiq Abbasi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Accountability and Interior called on the president and a photo was released about the meeting. (Syed Iefan Raza, “President Alvi seeks early completion of cyber project, Dawn29 January 2022)

PTM leader and MNA Ali Wazir may be transferred to North Waziristan
On 29 January, Jailer of Karachi central jail requested Sindh Home department to transfer Ali Wazir to North Waziristan where he is due to face another sedition trial. The trial is to be conducted by anti-terrorism courts for Wazir speech against state institutions during Sohrab Goth rally in December 2020. MNA Wazir along with 10 others are facing trails related to sedition. (Naeem Sahoutara, “Jailer seeks permission to transfer MNA Ali Wazir to Miramshah,” Dawn29 January 2022)

UN hails Pakistan’s effort to eradicate polio
On 27 January, the Unicef regional director for South Asia and WHO regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean in a joint statement said the commitment and progress witnessed in Pakistan towards eradicating polio should be sustained until the very end, until transmission is interrupted, and the case number reaches zero. They said, “We concluded our second mission in November heartened that Pakistan’s polio programme is fit for purpose in a way it has never been before. Vaccination campaigns have become more precise, operations and monitoring more rigorous and corrective actions timelier and more effective.” (Amin Ahmed, “UN hails Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
IHC to hear petition against NAB Chief
On 28 January Islamabad High court’s registrar office cause list gave a date to petition seeking contempt of court proceedings against the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman for not acting against former military ruler retired Gen Pervez Musharraf for his alleged corruption during his tenure as the country’s president. The judgement against Musharraf cleared an ambiguity in National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) of 1999 due to which the anti-corruption watchdog had always been reluctant to proceed against retired army officers despite complaints of massive corruption. (Malik Asad, “IHC to hear petition against NAB chief in Musharraf assets case,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

ECONOMY
SBP passed in the parliament amid uproar
On 29 January, ahead of IMF board review meeting the ruling managed to passed the proposed SBP Amendment Bill 2021 narrowly. PPP leaders among eight others skipped the vote. The opposition submitted a note of dissent criticising the government terming the law as ‘financial surrender’. The note stated, “The sum total of the proposed amendments is that the financial control of the federal government will be lost, as a consequence of which CPEC will be affected, foreign policy and relationship with neighbours will go under strain, the defence budget will be affected, Pakistan’s nuclear assets and their funding will come under strain and there will be one account for defence expenditure in the SBP, which will be under scrutiny of IMF.” (Iftikhar A Khan, “Opposition red-faced as Senate adopts key SBP bill,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)  

IMF prior conditions before the seventh review met successfully
On 28 January, the government managed to successfully pass the SBP Amendment Bill 2021 which was the last remaining condition demanded by IMF. Prior to this government had passed a mini-budget bill that hoped to help and stabilise the fiscal deficit. The seventh review meeting to be held will declare the sixth review meeting as successful and will enable the release of USD one Billion for starting the seventh review process. (Mehtab Haider, “All IMF prior conditions met,” The News International, 29 January 2022)

Experts predict the inflation to float around 12.7- 13 per cent
On 28 January, post-release of Monthly Economic Outlook by Finance Ministry experts speculated resilient double-digit inflation in the current month. Ismail Iqbal Securities Ltd Head of Research Fahad Rauf said “An increase in petroleum prices along with the house rent revision is going to push inflation up for January,”, adding that food inflation might come down due to the season of harvesting. Data released by PBS showed potatoes, chillies, onions, eggs, chicken, sugar and bananas showed a weekly decline in prices. (“January inflation to hover around 12.7-13pc,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

ON PM KHAN’S VISIT TO CHINA
PM’s China visit will reinforce the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, says FO
On 28 January, Foreign Office Spokesman Asim Iftikhar said that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to China would reinforce the strategic ties between the two countries. He said, “The visit will reinforce the all weather strategic cooperative partnership between our two countries, and further advance the objective of building a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.” (“PM Imran’s China visit to reinforce strategic ties: FO,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

PM Khan terms Pak-China relations as ‘unparalleled in inter-state relations’
On 29 January, The Express Tribune reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan in an article published in Global Times stated that the Pakistan-China partnership is unparalleled when it comes to inter-state relations, claiming that it is a unique account of “unwavering mutual support, mutual trust and mutual respect.” Further, he stated that the “iron-brotherhood” has blossomed into a strong and vibrant “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. He added, “For us in Pakistan, relations with China are the cornerstone of our foreign policy enjoying support across the political spectrum. I can say with great confidence that our people fully understand the real value of this friendship and enthusiastically contribute to its splendor and glory. No wonder special metaphors have been coined to illustrate its depth and intensity; the expression Ba Tie only reserved for Pakistanis in China is one such example.” (“Pakistan-China friendship unparalleled in inter-state relations: PM,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

ON INDIA
Pakistan rejected India’s claims about its disarmament record
On 29 January, Dawn reported that Pakistan has rejected India’s claims about its “impeccable” disarmament record, claiming that New Delhi is solely responsible for allegedly pioneering nuclear proliferation in South Asia that escalated tensions in the region. Pakistani delegate at the Conference on Disarmament said, “It is India which dealt a death blow to non-proliferation norms by conducting its first nuclear test in 1974, followed by additional nuclear tests in 1998,” adding, that India allegedly always opposed formalisation of a moratorium on nuclear tests in South Asia. He said, “In fact, it (India) continues to exponentially expand production by building new fast breeder reactors, while also amassing tonnes of fissile material stocks in the so-called strategic reserves.” (“Pakistan dismisses India’s disarmament claim as dubious,” Dawn, 29 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Pakistani state Imran Niazi government incompetence and failure to sit under the burden of super-sank speed is the task of state reconstruction is becoming more and more difficult with the politics of hatred and division of Imran Niazi - MQM, Q League and GDA not behind If removed, the public will remember the partners as these crimes.”
-Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary-General of PML-N

“Outside Lahore Press Club, an elderly woman is protesting against the disappearance of her daughter. Elderly woman holding pictures of her daughter in her hand kept appealing for recovery of my daughter has been missing for four days, I am appealing to Imran Niazi to help me in finding my daughter, Naseem Akhtar”
-Zobia Khurshid Raja, Information Secretary of PPP

“Prime Minister Imran Khan is a leader who has done unparallel work for humanity. While the Kartarpur corridor is promoting religious tourism, it is also paving the way for religious harmony as well as reuniting calves.”
-Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Tax on cellular services” emphasizes how the dream of ‘Digital Pakistan’ can become elusive. The writer rightly says “the increase in the tax rate on cellular services represents how policymakers still consider connectivity a luxury rather than an essential service or a good.”

An editorial in Dawn on “Renewed insurgency” paints a larger picture of continued Baloch insurgency. The author believes that at the heart of the insurgency lies “ruthless exploitation and deprivation of fundamental rights of the people in the province by various governments.”

An editorial in Dawn on “Local star power” says “this season’s Pakistan Super League is offering a chance for talented youngsters to make their mark on the road to becoming stars.An editorial in The Express Tribune “Kech Terrorist attack” highlights that “the problem was and is, that they have enough numbers to martyr thousands of civilians if their movements are not snuffed out and government’s response to tackling these issues.

An editorial in The Express Tribune “An organic LB format” examines the lack of an “effective and empowered local government tier” and its repercussions in the future.

An editorial in The News International on “Legal reforms” warns that the government should understand to “discuss matters through with all those involved before passing laws or making sweeping announcements of change” in relation to the government recent reforms in the criminal justice system.

An editorial in The News International on “Pildat report” calls for “public representatives to take up the task of legislation and discussion more seriously, as the citizens of Pakistan have entrusted them with a huge responsibility of leading the nation.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Touqir Hussain says “the US and Pakistan have yet to understand each other.

An opinion in Dawn on “Not for the poor” emphasizes that Riverfront Urban Development Project was an action of “seizing affordable housing to the needy.” The writer says “the PTI government must act fast before its own house crumbles.”

An opinion in Dawn suspects that “there is a strange equilibrium of imbalance in the federal capital with all stakeholders shadow-boxing in the hope of connecting a punch.”

An opinion in Dawn by Riaz Riazuddin, former deputy governor of SBP pronounces that the “fear regarding the SBP Amendment Bill, passed by the NA and Senate, are misplaced.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune argues that the “Independents can turn local elections party-less.”

An opinion in The News International says that “a new wave of ethnic and sectarian contradictions has raised its head in Sindh, particularly in its economic center Karachi.”

 


“On paper, all this (reforms in the criminal justice system) seems positive and could go a long way in fixing Pakistan's badly warped justice system. However, as the government should have recognized after three and a half years in power, it is always wise to discuss matters with all those involved, before passing laws or making sweeping announcements of change.”

-An editorial in The News International on “Legal reforms

 


Center and Provincial government take note of the MQM-P protests in Karachi


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
PROVINCES
Sindh: Center and Provincial government take note of the MQM-P protests
On 27 January, following the police action against the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) protesters in Karachi, Prime Minister Imran Khan via Twitter said, “I have taken note of the violence used by Sindh police against MQM’s peaceful protest against Sindh’s LG law, & have called for a report from Interior Ministry, Sindh Chief Minister & Sindh Inspector General,” adding, “Will take necessary action against those responsible after receiving these reports.” Meanwhile, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah constituted a committee under the home secretary to probe into the incident for action to be taken for those responsible. The committee has instructed to submit the report within the next three days. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran takes notice of police action against MQM-P workers,” Dawn, 28 January 2022) (“Sindh CM institutes inquiry into police action against MQM-P protesters,” Dawn, 28 January 2022)

Sindh: PPP and JI reach an agreement on Sindh local government law
On 27 January, the Jamaat-i-Islami Karachi chief called of their sit-in after the PPP government agreed to amend the Sindh Local Government Amendment Act 2022 that would give back control of major administrative affairs, including health, education, water supply and sewerage system, to the local administration. This comes after Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah visited the sit-in venue and held talks with the JI leaders who have been holding sit-in outside the Sindh Assembly for over a month. (Imran Ayub, “PPP, JI reach deal on Sindh local government law,” Dawn, 28 January 2022)

Balochistan: 10 soldiers killed in terrorist attack in Kech
On 27 January, Dawn reported that 10 soldiers were killed in an attack on a security forces’ checkpost in Balochistan's Kech district. According to the ISPR, “During intense exchange of fire, one terrorist was killed and several injured. While repulsing terrorists' fire raid, 10 soldiers embraced martyrdom,” adding that three terrorists had been arrested in the follow-up clearance operation. Further, the statement said, “The armed forces are determined to eliminate terrorists from our soil no matter what the cost.” Following the attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “I salute the 10 martyred soldiers who repulsed a terrorist fire raid on checkpost in Kech Balochistan. We are resolute in our commitment to rid Pakistan of all forms of terrorism.” (“10 soldiers martyred in terrorist attack on checkpost in Balochistan's Kech: ISPR,” Dawn, 28 January 2022) (“PM Imran reaffirms commitment to rid Pakistan of terrorism following Kech attack,” The Express Tribune, 28 January 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Oil company’s security guard killed and supervisor kidnapped in Kohat
On 27 January, Dawn reported that a security guard was killed and a supervisor kidnapped in a terrorist attack on the installation of an oil exploration company in Thall Tehsil of Hangu district. According to the police officials, “Police launched an operation to hunt for the terrorists soon after the attack. The operation was in progress late on Thursday night. But no clue has been found as yet about the terrorists due to difficult mountainous terrain.” (Abdul Sami Paracha, “Oil firm’s guard killed, supervisor kidnapped in Kohat,” Dawn, 28 January 2022)

INTERNAL
Navy claims that sailing clubland was sanctioned by the government
On 27 January, the Navy filed an intra-court appeal challenging the judgment passed by Chief Justice Athar Minallah, who had ordered the demolition of the sailing club and asked the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to take over the farmhouses. The appeal stated that in 1992 President of Pakistan sanctioned the creation of seven new directorates and the welfare directorate initiated a residential welfare scheme for naval officers on Simly dam road. Stating on the sailing club on Rawal Lake, the appeal said “Navy has been maintaining, in possession of the area of the centre at Rawal Lake for the last 25 years… to develop capacity of young athletes in water sports… to inculcate interest in rowing, sailing and other water sports.” (Malik Asad, “Navy argues president, PM sanctioned land for farmhouses, sailing club in capital,” Dawn28 January 2022)

Legal body challenges electoral ban ruling of Supreme Court
On 27 January, Pakistan Supreme Court Bar Association submitted a wide-ranging petition that could bring life to curtailed political careers of Nawaz Sharif and Shaukat Tareen. The petition filed in SC over reconsidering the lifetime ban as a court of law rather than as a trial court. It maintained that since affected parties did not have a right to appeal, the ruling does not bide with article 17(2) of the constitution which is a fundamental right that allows citizens to form or become a member of any political party. The petition pleaded that a fair harmonisation was required for proceedings under article 184(3) and the proceedings under Article 62(1)(f). (Nasir Iqbal, “Belated SCBA challenge may bring lifeline to Nawaz, Tareen, Dawn28 January 2022)

WAPDA officials report increased cost of Daimer-Bhasha by 31.5 per cent
On 27 January, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Planning took cognizance of the increasing costs in the construction of the Dam. Wapda officials stated that the devaluation of PKR had led to rising costs associated, the contract cost now stands at PKR 442 billion. Opposition members complained of a lack of regular flow of development funds from the federal government. The committee was also apprised of the ML-1 project by the Ministry of Railways, that the ministry was looking for suitable contracts and engineers. The loans for ML-1 was planned to be taken from China, Kazakhstan and Russia. (Haseeb Hanif, “Rupee’s fall increased Diamer-Bhasha dam’s cost, NA panel told,” The Express Tribune28 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
SHC directs provincial authorities to constitute ‘independent cell’ for missing persons issue
On 27 January, the Sindh High Court directed the provincial authorities to constitute an independent cell to exclusively probe and locate the whereabouts of missing persons. The court once again came questioned the authorities for not properly implementing the previous order and observed that the force being formed by the provincial authorities was similar to an already existing joint investigation team and it would not fulfil the purpose. (Ishaq Tanoli, “SHC insists on ‘exclusive cell’ for missing persons issue,” Dawn, 28 January 2022)

SC seeks replies from KP and federal government on making ex-FATA a separate province
On 27 January, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court sought replies from the federation and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government over petitions seeking to make the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) a separate province. During the hearing, Justice Bandial said that there are important legal issues before the court, adding, “We are thinking of forming a larger bench to see if this case is admissible or not.” (“Replies sought on making ex-FATA a separate province,” The Express Tribune, 28 January 2022)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Afghanistan’s Taliban government was maintaining cordial ties with Pakistan, says NSA Yusuf
On 27 January, National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs Committee stated that the Taliban government was maintaining cordial ties with Pakistan. He said that the recent border fencing troubles were not part of their policy, adding, “At the policy level in Afghanistan there is total positivity on Pakistan.” However, he said that Afghan soil was still being used against Pakistan, stating that organised terrorist networks were operating in the neighbouring country. Additionally, on the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had he said, “Those who declare war on the country will be dealt with an iron fist.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Opposition to fencing not Taliban’s policy: NSA,” Dawn, 28 January 2022) (“Afghan soil still being used against Pakistan: Moeed,” The News International, 28 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Year-on-year inflation to slightly accelerate, says Ministry of Finance
On 27 January, the Monthly Economic Outlook report for January 2022 stated that inflation in Pakistan was still under pressure due to a surge in commodity prices as well as expectations of economic agents. Three risks were identified which would impact the economy; rising global inflation along with a significant increase in transportation cost and the subsequent supply chain disruption. (Shahbaz Rana, “Ministry sees further hike in inflation,” The Express Tribune28 January 2022)

Amount worth USD 891 million repatriated as profit outflow
On 27 January, SBP released data on foreign investors in Pakistan and their transaction from and into Pakistan. For the first of the FY22 the repatriations from foreign investors dipped to USD 891.2 million repatriated to USD 892.3 million in the same period last year. Profit outflow to Britain dropped massively by 46 per cent to USD 170 million. Net investment was higher than the net outflow, as the net FDI stood at USD 1.05 billion. (Shahid Iqbal, “Foreign investors repatriate $891 million, Dawn28 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
US Navy conducts drill with Pakistan Navy
On 28 January, a national daily Dawn reported that US Navy Ships recently visited Karachi and engaged in bilateral exercises with Pakistan Navy. US Navy ships Squall (PC-7) and Whirl­wind (PC-11) and Pakistan Navy Vessels participated in Passage Exercise and joint patrolling near the port of Karachi. The aim of the exercise was to build synergy, strengthen naval relationships and enhance interoperability between the two navies. (“US Navy ships conduct drill with Pakistan Navy,” Dawn28 January 2022)

PAF briefed Foreign Minister on Chinese assistance for PAF’s modernisation project
On 27 January, FM Qureshi visited Pakistan Air Force (PAF) quarters ahead of his scheduled visit to China along with Prime Minister. The statement by PAF  said “In the context of forthcoming visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Foreign Minister to China, Chief of the Air Staff shared the PAF modernisation programme through smart inductions and collaboration in the domain of cutting edge niche technologies with Pakistan’s time-tested friend China,”. The discussions around evolving geopolitical/ geostrategic environment and regional security. (“FM Qureshi briefed on Chinese assistance for PAF’s modernisation project, Dawn28 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“I am deeply saddened by the martyrdom of ten soldiers in the terrorist attack in Balochistan. The latest wave of terrorism is more deadly, aimed at undermining our achievements against terrorism. The nation stands by its brave forces with all its might and we are proud of their great sacrifices.”
-Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition

“A midnight agenda for the Senate’s short Friday session says it all. Govt wants to tell the IMF the parliament passed it but let’s be clear: the entire opposition is against the PTI’s stripping of Pakistan’s own ability to make sovereign decisions in times of national crises.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary leader

“Our brave soldiers continue to lay down their lives to keep us safe from terrorists. I salute the 10 martyred soldiers who repulsed a terrorist fire raid on a check post in Kech Balochistan. We are resolute in our commitment to rid Pakistan of all forms of terrorism.”
-PM Imran Khan

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Never-ending debate” examines the presidential debate that has gripped Pakistan. The argument backing this debate is that “the limitations of the parliamentary system have hindered the governance of PTI and not provided space for PM Imran Khan to deliver on his agenda.” Nevertheless, the country stands divided.

An editorial in Dawn expresses, “the Lahore High Court decision scrapping the controversial multibillion-dollar Ravi Riverfront Urban Development Project is a major victory for the environmentalists and farmers whose lands were acquired forcefully.”

An editorial in Dawn says that the Karachi violence will not be resolved unless the “Sindh local government law is handled delicately and with foresight, things can easily descend into chaos.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune highlights “Sindh government’s corona vaccination drive has been stalled over reported delay in the payment of salaries for nine months.”

An editorial in The News International applauds the efforts taken by the National Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (NHRC) to raise awareness and debunk long discrimination and bigotry faced by the sanitary workers.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Tension over Ukraine” believes that “the flare-up over Ukraine is a well-orchestrated plan of action that is sliding the world back into bi-polarity.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Zafar Mirza talks about the nexus between health and the NSP. The author says “Health is a precondition to, as well as a consequence of, every other aspect of socio-economic development.” Hence, NSP in terms of health is a welcome development.  

An opinion in Dawn by Abdul Moiz Jaferii writes “when Justice Gulzar became the chief justice of Pakistan, certain people were worried. He had begun to take notice of the illegal lands that we no longer required for military use was divided into plots and sold to civilians instead of being returned to government.”

An opinion in Dawn by Aisha Khan titled “Bridging the gap” believes that the “NSP’s challenge will be to match intent with action.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune pronounces “given its meager professional, financial resources and the lack of autonomy PBS has done a good job of rebasing

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Need for environmental cooperation in South Asia” vocalizes that “non-cooperation will not bode well for a region already prone to lingering animosities and mutual suspicion.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune highlights “What may have the PTI done right?”. He says, according to the last “meet the nation” interaction by the PM illustrated three positive outcomes in the economy.

 



“The opposition parties must bear in mind that protest campaigns shouldn’t rock the boat where law and order is concerned, while the Sindh government must show flexibility, accommodate the opposition’s legitimate demands.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Karachi Violence

 


“The promise to end corruption in 90 days has already been fulfilled,” says PM Khan


Photo: The Express Tribune



In Brief
POLITICS
“The promise to end corruption in 90 days has already been fulfilled,” says PM Khan
On 26 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that the government has fulfilled their pre-election promise of eradicating corruption from the country in 90 days after coming to power. Further, he stated that said that no scandal of financial corruption emerged during the PTI government’s tenure, rather documents such as the Panama Papers surfaced during previous government’s rule. (Rizwan Shehzad, “Govt ended corruption as promised: PM Imran,” The Express Tribune, 27 January 2022)

Businessmen and bureaucrats more corrupt than politicians: NAB
On 26 January, NAB told the public accounts committee (PAC) that recoveries made under voluntary return and plea bargain stood at net worth of PKR 54.63 billion. Amount recovered from politicians from that amount stood at only PKR 0.47 billion, the amount recovered from the bureaucrats was PKR 8.17 billion and while that recovered from businessmen stood at PKR 24.31 billion. The PAC questioned the NAB on many important issues like internal accountability system; results of Broadsheet inquiry; reasons of delay in Khursheed Shah case; why very little goes to the federal consolidated fund. (Rizwan Shehzad, “Politicians least corrupt compared to bureaucrats & businessmen: NAB,” The Express Tribune, 27 January 2022)

Worse campaigns were launched against Usman Buzdar, yet declared best CM, says PM Khan
On 26 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan during the launch of the Naya Pakistan Qaumi Sehat Card for Rawalpindi, Islamabad said, “No worse campaigns were launched against any chief minister than those against Usman Buzdar, but even then a survey declared him the top chief minister of the country.” Further, he said, “In fact, Usman belongs to one of the most backward areas of the country and thus realises the suffering and problems confronting people.” (“Buzdar faced worst campaigns, yet declared best CM: PM Imran,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Jamaat-i-Islami to hold a “decisive” long march to Islamabad in March
On 26 January, Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) secretary-general announced that it will hold its own “decisive” long march to Islamabad in March. The secretary-general stated that the party has decided to hold anti-government long marches at all levels starting from 6 February until March, when a “final and decisive” long march towards Islamabad would be held against the government. (“Jamaat-i-Islami to hold its own long march to Islamabad,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Party workers are assets and future of PTI: Parvez Khattak
On 26 January, Parvez Khattak, PTI’s President of KP wing and federal defence minister called on all disgruntled workers who could not get the tickets and asked them to start preparing for the second phase of local body polls. While addressing a worker’s convention he was sympathetic to the cause of those workers but they should look forward to strengthening PTI’s prospects in the NA elections of 2023. A 70-member committee was constituted in the same regard. (“Pervez Khattak asks PTI workers to unite for 2023 elections,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)
 
PROVINCES
Sindh: MQM-P worker dies during a sit protest at CM house
On 26 January, one died and several party workers of Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) got injured when police resorted to tear gas firing and baton charge. The sit in protest was against recently passed Sindh Local Government Amendment Bill 2021 which will take the power away from local government. The party leadership of MQM-P called the PPP led government as a fascist regime hell bent on communalising the major cities of Sindh. (Tahir Siddiqui | Imtiaz Ali, “One dies, many hurt as police baton-charge MQM-P sit-in,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Terrorist killed in North Waziristan
On 26 January, after getting confirmed intelligence, an IBO was conducted and terrorist identified with name Saddam was killed. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorist who was involved in kidnapping and ransom and also an expert in IEDs planting. (“Terrorist killed in North Waziristan operation,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Pakistan SDG Investment Report 2021 by UNDP cautions of unabated borrowing
On 26 January, Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi launched the report titled ‘Pakistan SDG Investment Report 2021’ prepared by UNDP. The report noted, “Though innovative partnerships seem to be the progressive way forward as some important new donors like China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and United Arab Emirates are already providing financing to Pakistan’s social sectors, private investors looking for social impact should therefore look at partnering with regional development partners to ensure targeted transactions and mutual learning opportunities,”. However the report also warns about the continued borrowing over development grants will create political and economic challenges. (“Unabated borrowing poses economic challenges, warns UNDP,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Federal finance minister says economy moving in the right direction
On 26 January Shaukat Tarin said that the national economy was set to grow at 5.57 per cent as there was significant growth in revenues, surges in exports, higher electricity utilisation and bumper crop production. He also informed that the IMF case for completion of the sixth review was postponed by one week as the government was yet to pass the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Amendment Bill 2021. He also clarified on the recent notification issued by SBP for private bank to consider circumstances of defaults in allocating money for government loans. (Khaleeq Kiani, “IMF review put off to allow passage of SBP bill: Shaukat Tarin,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Monthly disbursement of foreign assistance shows foreigns loans soar to USD 10.4 billion
On 26 January, the Ministry of Economic Affairs released its monthly bulletin on foreign assistance for the month of December. The report comes at the half-life of the current financial year, since July-December government borrowing rose to 78 per cent compared to last July-December term. Of the total loans financed from foreign assistance 84.7 per cent of USD 10.8 billion were taken for non-productive purposes like budget financing, crude oil import and foreign exchange reserves’ building. The highly lucrative Naya Pakistan certificates are the new entrants to the list which have contributed to around USD 1.1 billion in foreign loans at an interest rate of seven per cent. The explanation is that the government took expensive short term loans to keep the forex reserve at a stable level and in turn reliance on loans from foreign commercial banks have increased. (Shahbaz Rana, “Foreign loans soar to $10.4b in Jul-Dec,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
 No one allowed to raise Jihad funds in Islamic state, says LHC
On 27 January, Dawn reported that the Lahore High Court ruled that inciting the public to raise funds for ‘Jihad’ is not allowed to individuals in an Islamic state as it may be considered as “baghawat.” The ruling was issued by a two-judge bench that dismissed appeals of two men who were convicted for raising funds for the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The bench said, “At the most it may be a job of the state to collect national funds for a declared war, if essential, which cannot be raised privately by any organization.” (“Pleas of two TTP convicts dismissed: No one allowed to raise Jihad funds in Islamic state: LHC,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

Government’s amnesty scheme must be exercised liberally, says SC
On 26 January, the Supreme Court observed that since the government’s amnesty scheme was a beneficial piece of legislation, it should be exercised to help recovery of stuck tax revenue instead of penalising voluntary tax payments. The court observed, “The amnesty notification, being a beneficial subordinate legislation, must be viewed liberally in favour of the taxpayer in order to achieve the solitary fiscal objective of quick recovery of stuck tax revenue.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Tax amnesty scheme must not penalise voluntary payments: Supreme Court,” Dawn, 27 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Musadiq Abbasi, who replaces Shahzad Akbar, in 2011 there was a formal complaint against him that was quashed without being investigated. The record of allegations will still be available at NAB headquarters.”
- Ayesha Siddiqa, Independent Scholar

“Punjab and the federal government have taken important steps in the field of health. The National Health Card will provide free healthcare to all families up to Rs 1 million.”
- Senator Aon Abbas Buppi, PTI Senator

“Strongly condemn police brutality in Karachi on MQM workers on the behest of PPP Chief Minister. So much for Bilawal’s lectures on democracy.”
-Shafqat Mahmood, PTI National Assembly Member

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Corruption Index” throws light on Transparency International’s report on corruption. The unfortunate drop of 16 places in the report has led to a country-wide discussion on the PTI’s accountability narrative. The author says “only way forward is for the country’s representatives to work collectively and with consensus in order to strengthen democratic institutions in Pakistan.”

An editorial in Dawn on “Sanitary workers’ rights” fittingly identifies that the “religious discrimination in Pakistan has many faces and one of its most troubling manifestations is the virtual institutionalization of bigotry that looks upon non-Muslims as lesser beings.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Oslo meeting” highlights the Taliban’s efforts to communicate with the Afghan civil society along with officials from UN and Western states in Oslo recently. While, the world is at crossroads, whether or not to recognize the Taliban government, such moves should be capitalized and “try to make the Taliban improve their attitude.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Pak cricket: relishing times” iterates that “Pakistan’s performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup has surprised the whole cricket world, drawing more attention today.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “PDM’s march” underlines Fazlur’s decision to hold an anti-inflation protest on 23 March 2022. However, the PTI is set to convince the opposition to call off the march as it collides with Pakistan Day celebrations and also to avoid “creating a security situation as an OIC meeting is also scheduled on the same day.”

An editorial in The News International on “Illegal Project” highlights a recent bold decision of Lahore High Court in calling the Ravi riverfront project, a project initiated and inaugurated by the PM himself, illegal. The court upheld that “farmers cannot be deprived of their lands and that this was a violation of a pre-colonial act, intended to protect them.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Ahmed Bilal Mehboob emphasized that “it is a constitutional obligation for the PM to consult the leader of the opposition” in the light of the country’s national interest.

An opinion in Dawn written by UNICEF and WHO regional directors on “Pushing through the last mile” says “as we begin 2022, we have our best opportunity to end polio for good. We have made remarkable progress, but we are not there yet.”

An opinion in The News International on “Breaking the IMF shackles” raises important questions on the inseparable relationship of the IMF and Pakistan. The author claims that the “individual interest superseded national interest” is responsible for this close-knitted bond.

An opinion in The News International calls for “a nation that regularly quarrels with its constitution requires immediate treatment of its social, political and moral decadence.”

 


“We need to stop thinking in terms of Pakistan and Afghanistan as two separate challenges. They are one epidemiological block and the two countries must work together to counter this shared threat...As we begin 2022, we have our best opportunity to end polio for good. We have made remarkable progress, but we are not there yet.”

-An opinion in Dawn on “Pushing through the last mile

 


PDM's plan for a long march to Islamabad on 23 March


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
POLITICS
PDM confirms long march to Islamabad on 23 March
On 25 January, Maulana Fazlur Rehman announced that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) has unanimously decided to go ahead with its anti-inflation march on 23 March, adding, “All [opposition] parties are instructed to devote all their energies for the success of this march. People from all corners of the country will turn to Islamabad. It will be the last nail in the coffin of the current rulers.” Further, the alliance has decided that it would let go of the idea of moving a no-trust motion against the government in the parliament. (“PDM firm on staging march on Pakistan Day,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022) (Amir Wasim, “PDM drops idea of tabling no-trust motion,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

Corruption index was not because of monetary corruption but due to ‘political corruption,’ says Information minister
On 25 January, Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry stated that Pakistan’s depreciation in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) for 2021 was not because of monetary corruption but due to ‘political corruption’ and lack of the rule of law. He said, “Transparency International's report hasn’t been published yet, and it also doesn't mention any financial corruption.” (“Ranking in Transparency index plunged due to 'political corruption': Fawad,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022)

Senate witnesses heated exchanges on Pakistan performance in corruption ranking
On 25 January, opposition and treasury members exchanged allegations of corruption over the recent score of Pakistan in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI). PPP leader Sherry Rehman said the PTI main election promise was to remove corruption and they have failed in that as well. She added that mafiagiri was on rise as the urea shortage and higher price of perishable of food items. PTI parliamentary minister countered by mentioning Swiss bank accounts of leaders of opposition. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Opposition, treasury trade corruption charges in Senate,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

Government found in violation of debt reduction law
On 25 January, Cabinet approved placing the Debt Policy Statement 2021-22 before the National Assembly to meet a requirement of the Fiscal Responsibility and Debt Limitation Act of 2005. It was found that the government debt burden was USD 70.8 billion higher than prescribed by the law. The revelation by Finance ministry about the debt to GDP ratio told that it stood at 83.5 per cent of the GDP, four per cent lower than the previous year. As per the Fiscal Responsibility and Debt Limitation (FRDL) Act, the law prescribes the threshold of 59 per cent of the GDP and previous governments also had a record of violating the FRDL act and its provisions. (Shahbaz Rana, “Govt in violation of debt reduction law, cabinet told,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
LHC declares several provision of the Ravi Urban Development Authority (Ruda) Act 2020 as unconstitutional
On 25 January, the Lahore High Court scrapped the Ravi River front Urban Development Project of the government on the claims that several provisions of the Ravi Urban Development Authority (Ruda) Act 2020 were unconstitutional. Further, the court also declared that the acquisition of agricultural land for the project unconstitutional and in violation of the fundamental rights of citizens. Additionally, the court ruled that Section 4 of the Ruda Act 2020 was in violation of Article 140-A of the Constitution, which deals with the formation of local governments. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “LHC scraps celebrated Ravi riverfront project,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

SC orders that identity of officer concerned be disclosed in official documents
On 26 January, Dawn reported that a two-judge Supreme Court bench comprising Justice Isa and Justice Amin-ud-Din also ordered that the identity of officer concerned should be disclosed in notifications or office memorandums, instead of using the vague and imprecise term “competent authority.” The bench said, “Using the term the competent authority is an anathema and results in avoidable disputes, unnecessarily consumes time and public resources,” adding, “Not disclosing identity or designation or name is against the public policy and also against the public interest since it facilitates illegalities to be committed and protects those committing them.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Supreme Court orders avoidance of term ‘competent authority’,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

INTERNAL
89 citizens killed over blasphemy allegations since 1947, says CRSS report
On 25 January, the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) in a report stated that 89 Pakistanis were killed in 1,415 accusations and cases of blasphemy in the country from 1947 to 2021. The data showed that 55 cases were filed in the Islamabad Capital Territory, 1,098 cases were reported from Punjab followed by 177 from Sindh, 33 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 12 from Balochistan and 11 from “Azad Jammu and Kashmir.” The report added, “The actual number is believed to be higher because not all blasphemy cases get reported in the press.” (Kalbe Ali, “89 citizens killed over blasphemy allegations since 1947: report,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

Karachi Circular Railway to reach the construction stage
On 25 January, Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar chaired a meeting with private partners for Karachi Circular Railway (KCR). The project will be executed under public-private partnership-authority and transaction structure was approved along with project proposal and operation in the meeting. The government is to finance 40-50 per cent of the total project cost and government has proposed leasing the properties of railways on the route of KCR for cost recovery. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Rs220bn Karachi Circular Railway transaction structure approved,” Dawn, 26 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Plots distributed under Katchi Abadi regularization scheme
On 25 January, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto distributed 150 plots in the first phase of the scheme. The scheme aims to lease properties to occupants to provide the provision of makaan (residence) as part of PPP manifesto. Taking a veiled attack against PM he said, “It’s quite disheartening that we had to face hurdles in the regularisation of Gujjar Nullah and in Orangi town whereas in the case of Bani Gala, things had a smooth sailing.” (M.B. Kalhoro, “Bilawal launches fresh katchi abadis regularisation scheme for Sindh,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

SPORTS
COAS Bajwa meets with Michael Owen meets, thanks him for promoting sports in Pakistan

On 25 January, England footballer Michael Owen who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan met with COAS Qamar Javed Bajwa. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement said, “[The] COAS thanked him for visiting Pakistan & promoting sports particularly football,” adding, “Sports promote peace and this initiative for developing football infrastructure and young talent in Pakistan is a welcome step.” (“Army chief thanks star footballer for promoting sports in Pakistan,” The News International, 26 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Large-scale tree planting agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan
On 25 January a delegation from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Environment signed an agreement to plant 10 billion tree projects in Saudi Arabia. The agreement is part of Saudi Arabia’s target of planting 40 billion trees in the kingdom and the Middle East under the Green Initiative. Pakistan’s experience and expertise were sought as part of the agreement. (“MoU signed for 10b tree project in Saudi Arabia,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022)

Emerging aquatic market in Pakistan finds its market in China
On 25 January Chinese customs released data on aquatic imports from Pakistan. The exports from Pakistan hit at USD 153 million, a 9.8 per cent higher on year-on-year basis. Since the pandemic began Pakistan has increased its market share in aquatic exports to China which is 30 per cent of the total aquatic exports. (“Aquatic exports to China hit $153 million,” The Express Tribune, 26 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Another credit to the Naizi government for claiming “jihad” against corruption. According to today’s report by Transparency International, the Imran Naizi government has set a new record for the most corruption in the last 20 years. Mr. Naizi, if you can’t hear the voice of your conscience, then listen to Transparency International.”
-Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition

“The response of the Prime Minister and the Ministers to the report of Transparency International has been astonishing. Instead of correcting its qibla, the entire government is questioning Transparency International and the report. Every citizen knows that the present federal government is the most corrupt government. "I do not believe" will not change the reality.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary leader

“Thus, the business of billions of rupees of Pakistani airlines was given to foreign airlines – is the worst incompetence or the worst scandal? Decide for yourself!”
-Ahsan Iqbal, Sec Gen PML-N

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled as “Failure of Accountability” examines PTI’s commitment and accountability to the public following the resignation of Shahzad Akbar from the position of the head of Asset Recovery Unit. The writer reminds that, “the PTI’s failure on this account should remind everyone that one-sided accountability can never deliver the desired results”.
 
An editorial in Dawn on the launch of “new railway freight services” looks into the prospects of turning the loss-making Pakistani Railways into a profitable venture. The article suggests that “if the railway is to be put back on track, the government will have to invest heavily in rebuilding and rehabilitating the missing and broken infrastructure now besides implementing governance reforms.

An editorial in Dawn titled as “Flying curbs” underlines the European Union Aviation Safety (EASA) Agency's intention to continue the ban on Pakistan International Airlines' flights to European Union countries in place. The decision is in the light of EASA’s efforts to tackle safety lapses.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Journalist Killings in Pakistan” raises concern over the safety of journalists after the murder Hasnain Shah in Lahore. The author stresses that “the authorities should introduce stringent laws to rein in the spike in the killing of journalists and their intimidation”.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled as “Exit Shahzad Akbar” pins the weight of the barrister’s resignation as a failure of the National Accountability Bureau. The author also holds the opinion that the resignation “has simply proved that the system is in need of evolutionary reforms to ensure apt accountability and good governance."

An opinion in Dawn on “PM on the warpath” believes that the prime minister appears to be fighting a losing battle. After losing his temper on a national live TV session, his reactions have “raised questions about his ability to lead the country at this critical moment of its history.”

An opinion in Dawn on “Wars on many fronts” written by Rafia Zakaria raises an important question; Was Ukraine really worth a war that all of the EU would have to fight?

An opinion in Dawn on “Women-led market” is a staunch example of women missing in action. Despite the
fact that they are major players in poultry farming and cattle production, when it comes to selling cattle at the mandi- they aren’t encouraged. Hence, the suggests that the “barriers must fall for women to have access to mandi”.


An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Strengthen democratic values” by Tala Masood calls for “volatile politics to stabilize and the culture of hate and populism to be discouraged.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune by Dr. Syed Akhtar Ali Shah writes “Bacha Khan’s messages of social equity, purity and liberty carried a universal appeal.”

An opinion in The News International emphasizes that “NSP is not a reflection of where we were or are today, rather it is a roadmap for where we want to be.”

 


“Pakistan needs a process of accountability that citizens can believe in. This can only happen if governments and their institutions follow merit and keep political motives out of the process. This is easier said than done but never was this needed more than today.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Failure of accountability

 


Bilawal urges people to support him in ousting ‘puppet PM’


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
POLITICS
Bilawal urges people to support him in ousting ‘puppet PM’
On 24 January, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari while addressing the 'Kisan Rally' urged the masses to help him oust Prime Minister Imran Khan who he termed a ‘puppet.’ He said, “Agriculture used to be backbone of Pakistan’s economy but the incompetent PM has broken this backbone as a result Pakistan is facing back to back crises,” adding, “The PM left farmers in the lurch during locust attack and didn’t do anything to ensure judicious distribution of water that affected the agricultural production. Now a crisis of fertiliser has hit the farming community.” (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Bilawal seeks people’s support to oust ‘puppet PM’,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

PDM to finalise the anti-government campaign strategy
On 25 January, Dawn reported that leaders of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) are scheduled to meet on 25 January to finalise the anti-government campaign strategy with a long march and the option of tabling a no-confidence motion in parliament on top of the agenda. On 24 January, PML-N secretary-general stated that the PDM leaders in their upcoming meeting would give serious thinking to the option of tabling the no-trust motion against the government. (Amir Wasim, “PDM to finalise campaign strategy today,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Dahebji industrial zone issues to be solved on priority basis
On 24 January the prime minister asked relevant authorities including provincial government of Sindh to expedite the issue of DIZ positively in the court. There was a different technical and legal stand of the provincial government and the federal government over declaring DIZ as a special economic zone (SEZ). DIZ is being established as a SEZ under CPEC projects. (“Sindh asked not to hinder industrial zone launch,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Parvez Khattak cautions party workers against groupism
On 24 January while addressing a worker’s convention of PTI federal defence minister and PTI Provincial president of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Parvez Khattak warned the workers against forming groups to fetch party tickets. He affirmed that ticket would be given on the basis of merit and action would be pursued against those indulging in groupism. (“Pervez Khattak warns workers against grouping in Tehreek-i-Insaf,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

ECP warns PM to note violate poll code of conduct in holding rally in Dir
On 24 January KP provincial election commissioner warned the district administration for allowing a PTI rally on 27 January. As the polls are going to enter the second phase the poll code of conduct was declared on 20 January. In the second phase elections will be held for the posts of mayor and chairman of tehsil and city councils and different categories of members in village and neighbourhood councils in 18 districts. (Mohammad Ashfaq, “Imran’s participation in Dir rally to violate poll code of conduct: ECP,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

INTERNAL
Government ready for negotiations with TTP but no compromise on security, says Interior Minister
On 24 January, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that the government was prepared to hold negotiations with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), However, he warned that any group posing threat to the country’s national security will be dealt with an iron fist. Additionally, he confirmed that no talks were currently being held with any groups and stated that negotiations would be held with any outlawed group as per the Constitution. Meanwhile, the opposition criticised the government for what it called “a policy of appeasement” towards terrorist outfits, claiming that talks with groups who challenged the writ of the state had emboldened and encouraged such actors. (Amir Wasim, “Ready for negotiations with TTP but no compromise on security: Rashid,” The Express Tribune, 24 January 2022) (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Govt flayed in Senate for appeasing terrorists, letting Taliban speak on its behalf,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Human Rights minister launches human rights complaint cell in Islamabad
On 24 January, Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari launched the human rights complaint cell at the ministry.  According to a press release from the ministry the Human Rights Complaint Cell has been established for receiving, sifting, segregating and forwarding of complaints both at federal and provincial levels. (“Human rights complaint cell set up in Islamabad,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Pakistan ranked 140 out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index
On 25 January, The News International reported that Pakistan has been ranked 140 out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2021 by Transparency International. According to the report, Pakistan’s score dropped by three points to 28 on the global corruption index, stating, “It shows that corruption has increased in Pakistan as compared to the last year.” (“Pakistan drops further in Corruption Perception Index,” The News International, 25 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Journalist shot dead outside Lahore Press Club
On 24 January, a journalist was shot dead by two armed motorcyclists outside the Lahore Press Club (LPC). The journalist was a crime reporter with Capital TV and was also a council member of the press club. The motive behind the killing is yet to be identified. (“Journalist Husnain Shah shot dead outside Lahore Press Club,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Sindh: Freight train service at Hutchison Port Karachi launched
On 24 January, the governor of Sindh launched a freight train service that would connect the Hutchison port with the rest of the rail network in Pakistan. This coincided with the commissioning of a 3.7km, high-tech train track laid at the Hutchison Ports Pakistan. The captain Syed Rashid Jamil said that the port is extending its physical gates to Multan and Lahore to directly offload and load containers at their factory gates. In a similar development on the same day Pakistan State Oil (PSO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan Railways for the supply of POL products, transportation and other businesses. (Shazia Hasan, “Freight train service launched to link Karachi port with rest of Pakistan,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

DEFENCE
Pakistan Navy inducts Chinese frigate and sea king helicopters gifted by Qatar
On 24 January, Pakistan Navy induct the first of the four type multi-role frigates (Type 054-A/P) contracted with China.   The first ship has been named PNS Tughril. Along with this 10 Sea King Helicopters gifted by Qatar were inducted as well. President Alvi expressed satisfaction and confidence in the capabilities of Pakistan Navy and its air arm. (“PNS Tughril, 10 Sea King helicopters inducted into Navy,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

ECONOMY
SBP maintains benchmark interest rate as unchanged at 9.75 per cent
On 24 January, as part of reviewing monetary policy, SBP governor Reza Baqir maintained that borrowing cost would remain steady in short to fight against inflation and backed by recent tax measures to curb budget deficit and net demand. The GDP growth rate was cut to 4.5 per cent from previously projection at five per cent. The statement by the bank said, “The MPC was of the view that current real interest rates on a forward-looking basis are appropriate to guide inflation to the medium-term range of 5pc to 7pc, support growth, and maintain external stability. If future data outturns require a fine-tuning of monetary policy settings, the MPC expected that any change would be relatively modest,”. The SBP governor also said that current account deficit was also stabilizing at 4 per cent of the GDP. (Shahid Iqbal, “SBP keeps policy rate unchanged at 9.75pc,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Pakistan launches highest ever rate on five-year Sukuk Bond
On 24 January, Pakistan entered the Islamic-denominated Sukuk Bond market by offering the highest yield of 7.95 per cent. The government placed an asset-backed guarantee of motorway (M-2) portions and has established a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for launching the Sukuk Bond. This Sukuk bond comes after a pause of four years as the PTI has conventionally opposed Sukuk Bonds. The rate offered reflects the perception of authorities that the economy has stabilized, currently, the forex reserves stood at USD 17 billion. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan launches $1 billion Sukuk Bond after four years,” The News International, 25 January)
 
EXTERNAL
Efforts should be made for optimal utilisation of Pak-Sri Lankan FTA, says FM Qureshi
On 24 January, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Sri Lankan Minister of Trade Dr Bandula Gunawardhana and State Minister for Regional Cooperation Tharaka Balasuriya. During the meeting, he spoke about the need for capitalising on the goodwill that exists between Pakistan and Sri Lanka by expanding cooperation across diverse areas, including trade and investment, tourism, culture, education, defence, and agriculture. Additionally, he said that efforts must be taken to enhance bilateral trade relations through optimal utilisation of the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA). (“Pakistan calls for enhancing multisectoral relations with Sri Lanka,” The Express Tribune, 25 January 2022)

Iran Consul General calls on Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court
On 23 January Iranian Consul general of Quetta Hassan Darwish Vand called on BHC chief justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan to discuss boosting ties on historical commonalities in terms of the judicial system of the two countries. Vand appreciated the cooperation of the judiciary towards strengthening bilateral ties. (“Iranian envoy, BHC chief justice vow to boost ties,” Dawn, 25 January 2022)

Special cabinet committee finalises Pakistan-UK extradition treaty
On 25 January, a special cabinet committee finalised the recommendations for the Return and Readmission Agreement between Pakistan and UK. During the meeting it was decided that the draft agreement would be shared with the British government for consultation before submitting it to the federal cabinet for approval. (Haider Naseem, “Draft of readmission treaty with Britain finalised,” The Express Tribune, 25 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

Claiming to end corruption, the government has left 16 countries behind in corruption. On the other hand, the resignation of the Accountability Advisor is proof that corruption has not decreased, it has increased. Accountability is only for targeting opponents. International institutions are now uncovering the corruption of this government.
- Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary Leader

Corruption rampant in 'Naya' Pakistan of "anti-corruption Mujahid". According to Transparency International, PTI govt has broken all records of corruption in the last 20 years. Among Asia-pacific region, Pakistan has unfortunately been ranked as the 5th most corrupt country.
-Shehbaz Sharif, leader of the Opposition in National Assembly 

I want to congratulate Justice Ayesha Malik on becoming the first woman judge of the Supreme Court. I wish her all the best.
- Prime Minister Imran Khan

Aneeqa Ateeq accused of blasphemy after refusing a man's advances and sentenced to death. Junaid Hafeez implicated by jealous colleagues and jailed. Mashal Khan lynched at behest of corrupt university admin. Blasphemy charges wreck lives and are a disservice to Islam & Pakistan.
-Ammar Ali Jan, Member of the Haqooq-e-Khalq Movement (HKM)

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn on PM warning that he would be more dangerous on the streets than he is in government argues that it is clear that the government is showing signs of being under pressure.

An opinion in The News International on what’s new in the National Security Policy states, “What the NSP offers with a different nomenclature and taxonomy has since long remained a part and parcel of our national policies. There is nothing new, but the NSP has only combined all these strands in one paper.”

An editorial in The News International titled Local Power argues, “an empowered local-government system in Sindh – and in all other provinces for that matter – is the need of the hour.”

An editorial in Dawn on defeating polio states that vaccine hesitancy is still a major problem to be addressed. The editorial says, “it is imperative that the health authorities continue to engage religious and other community leaders who exercise influence in their respective areas and can convince the people of the efficacy of the vaccine.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune states that what China lacks, Pakistan can provide, arguing that Pakistan must develop its small and medium enterprises to become components of supply chains that support the Chinese industrial sectors and develop Pakistan’s human resource to help Beijing overcome China’s deteriorating demographic situation.

An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the reported infant deaths in Tharparkar states that poverty and lack of education are leading to serious consequences like malnutrition and premature deaths.

An editorial in the Express Tribune on the state of politics in the country says, “while the government’s performance is not up to the mark, it does not justify any undemocratic moves to send it packing.”

An opinion in Dawn title ‘Winds of change’ says “the larger balance of power as well as its impact on economic matters will continue to haunt whichever government is in power.”

An opinion in Dawn title ‘Presidential hubris’ states “One can only surmise that the real reason is not good governance but controlled governance that suits the deep state.”

An opinion in The News International on dealing with the IMF argues, “To overcome the trust deficit, it is imperative that the PM lets the nation know the nature of the current agreement with the IMF. In the same breath, he should also reveal past deals with the IMF by past governments.”

 


“It is now time to actually follow the systems of accountability with checks and balances so that no one entity, person, or institution holds absolute power, but authority emanates from the wishes of the people through a devolved democratic system…Accountability is not blackmail; it is necessary.”
-An opinion in Dawn on ‘All are answerable’

 


Justice Ayesha Malik sworn in as first female judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
JUDICIARY
Justice Ayesha Malik sworn in as first female judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan
On 24 January, Justice Ayesha Malik took oath as the first female judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. CJP Gulzar Ahmed administered the oath at the swearing-in ceremony in Islamabad. Following the ceremony, CJP Gulzar said that he will not take credit for Justice Ayesha’s elevation as the apex court judge, adding, “She deserved to become a judge of the Supreme Court and that's why she became one.” Justice Ayesha will now work as a Supreme Court judge until June 2031 and could also become the CJP after the retirement of Justice Yahya Afridi in January 2030. (Hasnaat Malik, “Justice Ayesha Malik takes oath as first female SC judge,” The Express Tribune, 24 January 2022)

POLITICS
If I exit the government, I will pose a greater threat to you, says PM Khan
On 23 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “If I exit the government, I will pose a greater threat to you. Right now, I am sitting quietly in my office and watching the drama unfold. But if I take to the streets, you will have nowhere to hide,” adding, that people would never take to the streets against him, especially on the call of the ‘tainted’ opposition. He said, “The reason why people came out for me was that I was trying to get back their looted wealth. You are only trying to cover your own [corruption].” Further, regarding the PML-N he said, “The office of the opposition leader has respect, but I do not consider him (Shehbaz Sharif) an opposition leader, rather he is someone who has committed serious crimes against the country.” On Nawaz Sharif he said, “I am waiting for you… please come back,” adding, “The people recognise your true face now and whatever you have done with this country over the last 30-35 years. You need to understand that the lava is simmering. Once people take to the streets, they only need to be pointed in your direction, and you’ll see everyone of them running off to hide in London.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Dread the day when I’ll be back on streets, warns PM Imran,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

Opposition fire back at PM statements
On 23 January, the PML-N and PPP criticised Prime Minister Imran Khan over his threat that he would become more dangerous if pushed out of power. Maryam Nawaz termed it a ‘hollow threat’ from a defeated person, adding, “Your ultimatum that you will get more dangerous if ousted from power is no more than a hollow threat. The masses will offer thanksgiving prayers the day you leave the power. Neither you are Nawaz Sharif behind whom masses are standing nor you are an underdog and a victim. You are a conspirator and have fallen prey to your nemesis.” Meanwhile PPP secretary general Nayyar Bokhari labelled it “boastful talk” by a person sitting on a sinking ship. (Amjad Mahmood, “PML-N, PPP take exception to PM Imran’s remarks,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

PPP and ANP to cooperate in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa LG polls to be held in March
On 23 January PPP secretary general Nayyar Bokhari confirmed to Dawn that there will be a cooperation and mutual support between PPP and ANP. This development has in the backdrop of ANP leaders meeting PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. The election which were due on 16 January are now rescheduled to 27 March. (Amir Wasim, “PPP, ANP thrash out plan to contest KP local govt polls,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

MQM targets PPP and PTI
On 23 January Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said that it was PTI which had needed MQM’s support in NA and not the other way. His statement came out during when blamed the PPP party for dividing the Sindh province on ethnic and administrative basis and he added that PM Khan was aware of it. The gathering was convened in demanding justice for Bholu Khanzada a party worker who was shot dead at court premises in Tando Allayar. (“You need our support, MQM-P tells PM Imran,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

Shehbaz expresses concern and anger over persistent urea crisis in the country
On 23 January, leader of opposition and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif issued a statement mentioning that farmers were suffering due to  ‘incompetence’ and ‘ineptness’ of the government. He demanded that government check smuggling of urea from the country. He even challenged the forecasting of agricultural produce by the current government. (“Shehbaz decries persistent urea crisis,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Over 36 child deaths reported in Tharparkar in one month
On 24 January, The Express Tribune reported that over 36 child deaths reported in district Tharparkar caused by various diseases in the month of January 2022 only has raised question over the ground realities of these provincial government schemes. The report states that the deaths seem to highlight the severe disparity in access to multiple factors like healthcare, hygiene and nutrition, which has long been a stumbling block for the province. (Tufail Ahmed, “A health crisis: Thar records 36 child deaths in one month,” The Express Tribune, 24 January 2022)

Punjab: Creation of the south Punjab province was part of PTI's manifesto, says FM Queshi
On 23 January Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi reiterated governments stand to its promises committed in its manifesto. He added “We are ready to give the people of south Punjab their rights by giving them the gift of the province.” (“Govt committed to creating south Punjab province: Qureshi,” The News International, 24 January 2022)


ON AFGHANISTAN
PM Khan calls on international community to fulfil its obligation to the Afghan people
On 23 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated his call to help Afghanistan under the international doctrine of Responsibility to Protect (R2P). He said via Twitter, “One pillar of R2P is to help protect people from mass scale humanitarian crisis left in the wake of a prolonged conflict. Right now millions of Afghan people are in danger of starvation.” (“After invoking UN norm, PM Imran clarifies call for Afghan help,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan seeks to promote bilateral trade and economic relations with Kyrgyzstan
On 24 January, Ambassador of Pakistan to Kyrgyzstan Sardar Azhar Tariq Khan stated that promoting bilateral trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan could become a means of attaining regional and global trade integration and connectivity. He also stated that the geo-strategic position of Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan emphasis on the geo-economic importance, which could play a significant role in promoting trade connectivity. (“Pakistan seeks better economic ties with Kyrgyzstan,” Dawn, 24 January 2022)

ENERGY
Gas storage and development research to be funded by ADB
On 23 January ABD approved a study in providing technical assistance to develop potential gas storage infrastructure which will help country in diversifying supplies and interconnection facilities. As per a report earlier published in Dawn, the fund for the study was estimated around USD .58 million. The study will identify cost, modality, geology and location proximity to transmission networks and load centres, market parameters, ownership, and operation and maintenance among other factors. (Amin Ahmed, “ADB to fund study about gas storage sites in Pakistan,” Dawn, 24 January 2022 )

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Imran Khan’s announcement that if his government is overthrown, they will be on the streets is a vulture. After the end of the government, Imran will be out of the country and the artificial Kings Party will disintegrate like the PML-Q”
- Murtaza Solangi, Executive Editor Nayadaur Media

“Imran Khan, now there is no point in crying and acting. Pick up and walk. As long as you cling to power you will only aggravate the problems of yourself and the people. You have suffered a humiliating defeat.”
-Maryam Nawaz, PML-N leader

“A historic moment in the judicial history of Pakistan where a first woman, Justice Ayesha Malik takes oath as judge of Supreme Court. What an inspirational moment for women of this country.
-Senator Shibli Faraz, Federal Minister for Science and Technolog

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn on “Anti-extremism policy” discusses PTI’s approval of National Counter Violent Extremism Policy 2021. The author writes “Among its salient features are measured to counter extremist tendencies in seminaries and public and private schools; regulate places of worship; and keep tabs on extremist tendencies among the ranks of law enforcement.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Cutting Mangroves” signifies the importance of mangroves in Karachi and how destroying them will create a havoc. The writer emphasizes that “it is a travesty that such a rich natural resource in parts of Karachi is being destroyed by the land and timber mafias and their backers in government”

An editorial in The News International on “Battling Polio” highlights Pakistan’s efforts to curb polio cases among the citizens. The motive behind, simply was “Across our country, we see people who have been victims of a disease that is easily preventable, suffering from the aftereffects of the infection,” says the author.

An editorial in The News International on “Education failure” stresses how the education system including establishing “model” institutions, teaching practices has all failed according to the latest study.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “UN’s unattained agenda” focuses on Pakistan’s claim “that the world is far from being serene, and challenges of environment and pandemic are an ugly reality.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “First transgender doctor” appreciates Dr. Sarah Gill in leading the country in the right path. The author believes that “it requires great courage to remain motivated and not steadfast in circumstances where people do not fully understand and refuse to acknowledge your identity.”

An opinion in Dawn titled “The reality gap” written by Maleeha Lodi says “The national security policy is long on verbiage but short on ideas.”

An opinion in Dawn on “Fantasies & constitutional change” written by Umair Javed; who is of the opinion that “any substantial change to how the country is governed is a call for changing the constitutions” on the presidential debate in the country.

An opinion in The News International on “Pakistan’s tryst with the IMF” calls for “an unbiased understanding of key economic indicators and should use the Fund’s expertise to fill in the knowledge gaps.”

 


“The NSP correctly places emphasis on national cohesion as a key determinant of security. This is ironic coming from a government that has never acted on this and failed to build national consensus for the NSP. After all, if all provinces are not brought on board, implementation of any policy becomes well-nigh impossible.”

- An editorial in Dawn on “The reality gap”

 

The alert is prepared by Abigail Miriam Fernandez, Ankit Singh and Sneha M.

 


Justice Ayesha Malik notified as Pakistan’s first woman Supreme Court judge


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
JUDICIARY
Justice Ayesha Malik notified the first woman SC judge
On 21 January, Justice Ayesha A. Malik was notified as a judge of the Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan by the law ministry, making her Pakistan’s first-ever woman judge be notified as a judge for the Supreme Court. The notification read, “In exercise of powers conferred by clause (1) of article 177 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the president is pleased to appoint Mrs Ayesha A. Malik, a judge of the Lahore High Court, [...] as a judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan with effect from the date she takes oath of her office.” (“Justice Ayesha Malik notified as country's first woman SC judge,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

IHC disposes of petition seeking actions against NDMA and others
On 21 January, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) disposed of a petition seeking action against National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and other authorities for having failed to rescue citizens stuck in Murree snowstorm. During the hearing, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan stated that the NDMA and PDMA had timely issued the threat alert to the officials concerned and that disciplinary action against officials responsible for the tragedy had been ordered. (“IHC disposes of petition against NDMA, other authorities,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Two facilitators and a terrorist held for the bomb blast in Anarkali market
On 21 January, authorities arrested two facilitators of the Anarkali blast and identified the terrorist involved in the bomb blast. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) launched search operations across Lahore to identify more suspects. Additionally, raids were carried out by joint teams of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of police and other LEAs. (Asif Chaudhry, “More suspects held as CIA joins Lahore blast probe,” Dawn, 22 January 2022) (“Anarkali blast: Two facilitators held, terrorist identified,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

POLITICS
Opposition challenges government growth claim in National Assembly
On 21 January, the opposition challenged the government’s claim regarding improvement in economic indicators and achieving a 5.37 per cent growth rate in the National Assembly. PML-N’s Ahsan Iqbal criticizing FM Qureshi’s claims mocked him for changing his loyalties claiming that the opposition does not consider his claims serious as he used to deliver similar speeches when he was with them in the PML-N and PPP. (Amir Wasim, “Govt, opposition spar in NA over growth claim,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

INTERNAL
Gen Bajwa visits the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar
On 21 January, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited the Corps Headquarters, Peshawar where he was received by Commander Peshawar Corps Lt Gen Faiz Hamid. During his visit he was given a detailed briefing on the security situation, progress on development works in newly merged tribal districts and Pak-Afghan border fencing. (“Gen Bajwa visits Peshawar Corps HQ; briefed on security situation,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

National Counter Violent Extremism (NCVE) Policy 2021 to keep check on law enforcement ranks
On 22 January, Dawn reported that the new National Counter Violent Extremism (NCVE) Policy 2021 included five key objectives and as many target areas. These include countering rising extremist tendencies in society seeks, to keep a check on law enforcement officials and weed out any problematic elements from within their ranks, countering extremist tendencies through seminaries, public and private schools, regulating places of worship, prevent abuse of pulpit by religious leaders and also seeks the passage of uniform CVE law, on the pattern of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. (Asif Chaudhry, “New anti-extremism policy to keep tabs on law enforcement ranks,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

Government launches first polio immunisation drive for 2022
On 21 January, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan launched the first Sub-National Immunisation Days (SNIDs) campaign of the year 2022, The campaign would cover 70 districts across Pakistan to vaccinate over 22.4 million children under the age of five launched the campaign. The polio vaccination in the provinces will start from 24 January, however, inoculation began in six high-risk districts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on 17 January. (“SAPM launches first polio drive of 2022,” The Express Tribune, 22 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Output of LSMs expands just 3.3 per cent in July-November 2021
On 21 January, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported that the slowdown in growth of Large Scale Manufacturing (LSM) has deepened with only a 3.3 per cent increase in their output in the first five months (July-November) of current fiscal year. The PBS reported that in November alone, the LSM sector posted a marginal growth of 0.3 per cent over the same month a year ago. This decline in the share and growth of LSM would likely cause problems for the government that is struggling to create new jobs. (Shahbaz Rana, “LSM growth slows down further,” The Express Tribune, 22 January 2022)

ENERGY
15 of 17 Tarbela power units closed due to the decreased inflow of water
On 21 January, 15 of the total 17 power units were shut down due to the decreased inflow of water causing a significant dip in power generation at Tarbela Dam. According to Dawn, only two power units were operational producing 220 megawatts against the overall 4,888 megawatts capacity of all units. (“15 of 17 Tarbela power units closed,” Dawn, 22 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
ECC approves USD 11.6 million in compensation to the Chinese victims
On 21 January, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved to pay USD 11.6 million in compensation to the Chinese nationals who either had lost their lives or were wounded in a terrorist attack. According to the Finance Ministry, “The ECC, after deliberation and considering the depth of our relationship with China, approved the proposal of payment of $11.6 million as a goodwill gesture on [the] government level.” (“ECC okays $11.6m for Chinese victims,” The Express Tribune, 22 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“The Sharif family did not deny the revelation in the Rana Shamim case that the affidavit was prepared in Nawaz Sharif's office as per their instructions. Rana Shamim and solicitor Nawaz recorded the affidavit in Sharif's office, all incidents show That this drama was created to influence the court”
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting

“This is the tsunami government style of governing. Soon government officials will be appointed for hours and ministers for days. Imran Khan considered change day by day as change but some fools were thinking that he would change the system.”
-Saleem Safi, Journalist

“Today, the PMLN’s attention-grabbing notice on the issue of students studying in China in Pakistan was on the agenda of the National Assembly. What will happen to its foreign policy?”
-Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary General of PML-N

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Updating the economy” emphasizes the government’s move to “update national accounts with a recent base year. The author writes, “Rebasing doesn’t make countries or people richer; it is just about updated data for policymakers to make informed public investment and taxation decisions.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Lahore blast and beyond” calls for a revisit in Pakistan’s war on terrorism. The editorial reminds us that “no group should be spared which is on a warpath with the state and its sovereigns.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Widening deficit” iterates “new policies to increase tax revenues, even if successful, may not make a significant dent in the deficit.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Vaccine hesitancy” represents the clear divide between “the pro-vaccine camp and the anti-vaxxers.” The author says that the dangerous Omicron spread in the country can be mounted to the “vaccine-escape phenomenon.”

An editorial in The News International on “An unnecessary debate” unveils the rumors on a “roaring campaign in support of introducing the presidential system in Pakistan.” Moreover, these debates “mostly serve the purpose of distraction.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Pledges from the Taliban” focuses on unfulfilled promises by the Taliban, in terms of reopening schools for the young girls in Afghanistan. The slow progress on their pledges has made the world even more skeptical about the future course Afghanistan will take, the author says.

An opinion in Dawn written by Sara Malkani on “Juvenile justice” highlights “how we deal with juveniles who run contrary to the law defines how we see ourselves as a nation.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Fahd Husain on “Presidential system?” says rather than engaging in this presidential debate, the leaders must first fix our voting system, electoral system, police force, the criminal justice system, rule of law.

An opinion in Dawn on “Judicial backlog” is a pressing issue that the Pakistan judiciary system faces. The author writes “A backlog of cases at any level of the judicial set-up is a problem with potentially multiple adverse consequences, and it is in the face of such adversity that remedial measures are needed.”

An opinion in The News International on “Taking the HEC back to the future discusses how “the education sector, including higher education, has been a mess for far too long.”

 



“Recently, the higher courts of Pakistan started playing an effective role in addressing elite capture in the larger interest of the country. This is a good omen. It gives hope to get rid of this in the long run to protect people’s interests.”

-An opinion in The News International on “Elite Capture” 

 


PML-N known for “using unfair tactics” to influence courts, says PM Khan


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
POLITICS
PML-N known for “using unfair tactics” to influence courts, says PM Khan
On 20 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan criticized the PML-N for “using unfair tactics” to influence courts. He said, “They [PML-N leaders] are mafias and they always influence courts when they feel that they are about to decide their cases.” Additionally, he told his spokespersons to vehemently counter “controversies” being created by opposition leaders, especially in media. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran blasts PML-N for ‘using unfair tactics’ to influence courts,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

Terrorism is again rearing its head in the country because of ‘flawed’ policies of Imran Khan, says Nawaz
On 20 January, Nawaz Sharif following the blast in Lahore via Twitter said, “I condemn the Lahore blast and pray for the recovery of the injured. Owing to wrong policies of (prime minister) Imran Khan terrorism has again reared its head in the country.” Additionally, Maryam Nawaz tweeted, “Three died and dozens injured in a bomb blast in Lhr today and guess what @ImranKhanPTI is talking about in his propaganda cell meeting? Sharifs! What is next? Blaming the victims for the tragedy,” adding, “On a day when Lahore mourns and grieves, more of heartlessness & apathy than misplaced priorities.” (“Terror rearing head due to ‘flawed’ policies: Nawaz,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

PPP to begin first phase of its “tractor trolley march”
On 21 January, the PPP is set to launch the first phase of its “tractor trolley march” as a means to extend its support to the country’s farmers who have been protesting over the alleged poor agricultural policies of the government. The first phase would include marches in Larkana division in Sindh and Okara city of Sahiwal division in Punjab. In the second phase, marches would be expanded to other parts of the country. (“PPP to launch ‘tractor trolley march’ today to support farmers,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

INTERNAL
EVMs purchased from private firm will not be accepted, says ECP
On 20 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in a letter to the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) stated that the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) purchased by from a private firm and given to it will not be accepted. The letter stated that according to the constitution, the purchase of the machines from open market was the job of the ECP, adding that if the EVMs are purchased from a foreign country the election supervisor would issue tenders under the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules for the purpose. Additionally, the ECP reminded the ministry that it should sign an agreement with an organisation for acquiring the EVMs. (“ECP directs ministry to ‘follow procedure’ for EVMs purchase,” The Express Tribune, 21 January 2021)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Three dead after blast in Lahore market
On 20 January, a bomb blast in Anarkali market left three people dead and injured 33 others. Initially, a newly emerged terrorist outfit, Baloch Nationalist Army, claimed responsibility for the blast. However, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid later claimed that Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan had claimed responsibility. The intelligence agencies are yet to determine who was behind the attack. (Asif Chaudhry, “Bomb blast in Lahore market leaves three dead,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

Balochistan: Gwadar Rights Movement call on the government to implement agreement
On 20 January, Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, the leader of the Gwadar Rights Movement call for protests accusing the authorities of using delaying tactics in implementing the agreement. Hidayat stated that the agreement signed was yet to be implemented by the provincial government, warning of similar protests in Makran next month if not implemented. Protesters blocked the Ormara-Karachi Highway, cutting off the Coastal Highway route between Makran and certain areas of Sindh before dispersing peacefully. (“Gwadar rights leaders urge government to fulfil agreement,” The Express Tribune, 21 January 2021)

FM Qureshi invites opposition parties for consultations on the creation of a South Punjab province
On 20 January, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi extended a formal invite to the opposition parties for consultations on the creation of a South Punjab province. The formal invitation was given to PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif and PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari requesting them to nominate their representatives for inclusion in a special parliamentary committee to draft a constitutional amendment bill with consensus. However, the PPP rejected the invitation labelling it a political stunt and non-serious move. (Amir Wasim, “Qureshi invites opposition for talks on new Punjab province,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

ECONOMY
Foreign exchange reserves of SBP declined by more than half a billion dollars in a week
On 20 January, data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) showed that foreign exchange reserves of the central bank declined by more than half a billion dollars within a week mainly on account of international debt servicing. According to the bank, reserves of the SBP dropped by USD 562 million to USD 17.03 billion in the week ending on 14 January because of external debt and other payments. (Shahid Iqbal, “SBP reserves go down by $562m in a week,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

FY21 growth rate revises up to 5.4 per cent and GDP to USD 347 billion
On 20 January, the National Accounts Committee approved the revised figures of Pakistan’s GDP and growth rate.  The growth rate improved from the earlier estimate of 3.94 per cent to 5.4 per cent, while the size of the economy rose to USD 346.76 billion from the provisional estimate of USD 296 billion. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Govt revises up FY21 growth rate to 5.4pc, GDP to $347bn,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

SPORTS
Mohammad Rizwan welcomes statements of Australian cricketers and others looking forward to touring Pakistan
On 20 January, Mohammad Rizwan, the winner of PCB’s most valuable cricketer of 2021 award said, “I can feel ripples of excitement for Australia’s tour of Pakistan,” adding, “I have read some very positive remarks from the stakeholders in Australia about the tour to Pakistan. The entire nation of Pakistan is ready to welcome Australia for the historic tour after 24 years.” (“Entire Pakistan ready to host Australia: Rizwan,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan urges the UN To brace itself for the revival of major-powers rivalry
On 21 January, Dawn reported that Pakistan has urged the United Nations to prepare itself for the revival of major-powers rivalry, new and old conflicts as well as a new arms race. Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, Ambassador Munir Akram said, “The consensus on disarmament has eroded. New military alliances are being formed in various parts of the world. And sadly, the United Nations is largely absent from the rope,” adding, “We need to consider how the United Nations can contribute to not an agenda for peace but the reconstruction of peace in this world.”  Further, he said, “We cannot ignore the global and multi-dimensional threats to international peace and security today and live only in hope.” (“Revival of major powers rivalry, arms race on the cards, Pakistan tells UNGA,” Dawn, 21 January 2021)

ON CPEC
CPEC framework was moving forward against a headwind posed by Covid-19 pandemic, says Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
On 21 January, The Express Tribune reported that Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian rejected reports that the work on the CPEC had slowed down over the last three and half a year. He said, “The CPEC has been moving forward against a headwind posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. In fact, it is promoting economic development and people’s livelihood in Pakistan and has been recognised by all spectrum of Pakistan,” adding, “So-called claim that little has been achieved and no programme was approved over the past three and half years… [is] pure disinformation,” he said. “Over the three and a half years under the framework, many livelihood projects have been approved and implemented, delivering tangible benefits.” (“China quashes disinformation about CPEC slowdown,” The Express Tribune, 21 January 2021)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“I want to congratulate my govt on achieving GDP growth of 5.37% in 3 yrs leading to substantial jobs creation & rise in per capita income. Our econ reforms success recognised internationally. Bloomberg predicted Pak will sustain high growth trajectory & employment levels.”
-Prime Minister Imran Khan

“The failure of the PTI government is not a failure of the parliamentary system. Strongly condemn this campaign in favor of the presidential system. The campaign against the Constitution of Pakistan is alarming and criminal. It is the responsibility of the government to expose the people behind this campaign and take action against them.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary Leader

“Recent terrorist incidents confirm that a new deadly wave of terrorism is knocking at our doors. We are already bearing a heavy brunt of broken economy. This terrorism challenge will further add to people’s woes. And what govt does is to turn its guns on the Opposition. Unfortunate!”
-Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Emergency rumors” highlights the ongoing “mysterious campaign for pushing a presidential system and an imposition of an emergency in the country.” However, the author calls these rumors to be a “convenient distraction.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “TTP attack” stresses the resurgence of terrorist activities in the country. In connection to this, the author says “Sadly, the emerging scenario speaks of a monumental failure of policy in which the Pakistani state wilfully refused to gauge the extent of affinity between the Afghan Taliban and the TTP and what could transpire in the event of a US withdrawal from Afghanistan.”

An editorial in Dawn upholds the suspension of 15 officers, following a report finding. On 19 January, the Punjab government blamed the unfortunate deaths on “gross negligence, lack of coordination and teamwork as well as risk assessment.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Evolving an SME economy” appreciates the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) policy. As Pakistan grapples with an Rs1.8 trillion income-to-expenditure gap, SMEs can help to maintain the formal economy's decorum while also boosting tax revenue.

An editorial in The Express Tribune calls for a cohesive framework to curb child pornography; wherein the government must collaborate with civil society organizations.

An opinion in Dawn on “Is education a priority?” the author claims that though the government has continually expressed its priority on the education sector, its actions have “neglected the claim”. Additionally, he writes “Higher education will continue to pay the price for individual ambitions and perniciousness for years to come.”

An opinion in Dawn on “The defiance of Afghan women,” the author expresses “while the issue of recognition of the Afghan Taliban remains pending, a humanitarian crisis is looming: the dilemma of the virtually stateless people of Afghanistan, especially women, is not limited to food or medicine shortages”

An opinion in Dawn titled “No more presidents” accounts for an interesting analysis on “how Pakistan’s political life conforms to a choreographed script.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “the co-option of gender equality” highlights how the “notion of gender equality has been repeatedly hijacked by those in power to serve their vested interests.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune written by Dr. Pervez Tahir discusses the recent State Bank Bill and how “State Bank must be allowed to carry out its own job.”

An opinion in The News International on “Biden’s dilemmas” echoes how “over the past year, Joe Biden has talked like Barack Obama but walked like Donald Trump on foreign policy.”

 



“Pakistan’s politics needs to settle down to a rhythm that is predictable in a systemic way and does not spring surprises when none are needed. These rumours should die a natural death.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Emergency rumours”

 

 


Justice Ayesha Malik’s appointment to Supreme Court approved by a parliamentary committee


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
POLITICS
National Assembly adjourned again due to lack of quorum
On 29 January, the National Assembly was adjourned due to a lack of quorum for the third consecutive day. The came after PML-N MNA ordered a headcount and adjourned the sitting till Friday morning after finding the house not in order due to lack of quorum. Dawn citing a report according to the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency stated that the quorum has become a chronic problem for the NA, stating that 24 out of the 79 total sittings were adjourned due to lack of quorum during the third parliamentary year ended in August 2020. (“National Assembly adjourned due to lack of quorum for third day,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

PTI asks ECP to expedite PPP and PML(N) accounts scrutiny
On 19 January Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Farrukh Habib urged the election commission to reconstitute the committee scrutinizing bank accounts of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). He said that PTI track was accountable and everything was in public domain but the opposition parties were (also) guilty in foreign funding. (“ECP asked to expedite PPP, PML-N accounts scrutiny,” The Express Tribune, 20 January 2022)

Balochistan agriculture minister requests Federal government to stop urea smuggling to Afghanistan
On 19 January, Mir Asadullah Baloch, agri minister of Balochistan along with agriculture secretary said Urea was being smuggled to Afghanistan through Balochistan. He added that 80 per cent of population in Balochistan is dependent on agriculture and the federal government must take action against smugglers. The crises of new governance in Afghanistan has disrupted industries in Afghanistan which makes it more profitable for smugglers to sell at a higher price. (Saleem Shahid, “Centre asked to stop urea smuggling to Afghanistan,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Government proposes LG polls first phase on 15 May
On 20 January, Dawn reported that the Punjab Local Government minister Mahmoodur Rasheed stated that the Punjab government was ready to hold the local government elections and conveyed its readiness to the Election Commission of Pakistan. The government has proposed that the ECP hold local government elections in two phases beginning from 15 May. (Mansoor Malik, “Punjab proposes LG polls first phase on May 15,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

Balochistan: Six injured after bomb blast derails Jaffar Express
On 19 January, six passengers were injured after a bomb blast at a railway track near Sibi derailed four bogies of Jaffar Express. The banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the bombing. Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo condemned the bomb blast and stated that the elements involved in the terrorist act would not be spared. (Saleem Shahid, “Six passengers injured as bomb blast derails Jaffar Express,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

Balochistan: Local court in Rawalpindi awards death sentence to a woman
On 19 January a woman convicted of blasphemy, inciting hate speech and insulting religious beliefs was awarded a death sentence for her blasphemous act when she had shared controversial content to a friend on WhatsApp. She was awarded a fine and prison term sentence separately for crimes other than blasphemy. (“Woman awarded death in online blasphemy case,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

INTERNAL
Sarina Isa raised complains over law minister and PM’s aid to NAB
On 20 January, Dawn reported that Sarina Isa in a two-page letter to the chairman and the prosecutor general of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) complained that the government had recently amended the Income Tax Ordinance (ITO) through the Finance (Supplementary) Bill simply to protect “top elected functionaries” from any criminal proceedings for disclosing personal tax information about her. In the letter she named law minister Anwar Mansoor, the chief of Assets Recovery Unit (ARU) and prime minister’s adviser Mirza Shahzad Akbar, and Federal Board of Revenue chairman Muhammad Ashfaq Ahmed. Meanwhile, in response Naseem and Akbar said that the received the letter in which “as usual” levelled “baseless, fake and mala fide allegations” against them. They added, “We are of the considered view that we have enough tolerated the nonsensical allegations by the lady and those behind her, and have decided to issue an appropriate defamation notice and take them to the court of law for loss and damage to our reputation, which has, inter alia, been occasioned through the letter in question.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Sarina Isa seeks NAB action against minister, PM’s aide,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

Affidavit meant to ‘set record straight,’ says Rana Shamim
On 20 January, Former Gilgit-Baltistan chief judge Rana Mohammad Shamim disclosed he had decided to write an affidavit to ‘set the record straight' and requested the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to seek a counter-affidavit from former chief justice Saqib Nisar. He said, “It is also of utmost importance that the veracity of the facts mentioned in the affidavit is to be confirmed through a thorough inquiry. It is also extremely important for just outcome that a counter affidavit by the former chief justice Saqib Nisar is also produced before the inquiry and the respondent is given an opportunity of cross examination.” (“GB ex-judge Rana Shamim claims affidavit meant to ‘set record straight’,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

Civil officers suspended responsible for Murree tragedy
On 19 January Punjab chief minster Usman Buzdar held a press conference and sponsored the findings of the inquiry committee he said that 15 officials were suspended and disciplinary action was recommended against them. Mr Buzdar said, “I have fulfilled my promise of holding a fair and transparent inquiry into the Murree tragedy and taking action against all those whose negligence led to the death of 23 people who were compelled to confine themselves in their vehicles as heavy snow fell on the night of Jan 7,”. (Mansoor Malik, “Murree tragedy: Pindi commissioner, CPO among 15 officials suspended,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

Incumbent attorney general not keen on finishing his term
On 19 January Khalid Javed Khan conveyed to PM that he may be relieved from his responsibilities as attorney general from February 2022. Khalid Javed has been a go-to person for ruling government for his mature and sane legal interpretation has cited domestic reasons for non-continuation of tenure. Khalid Javed Khan had even distanced himself for representing the government in the presidential reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa, citing a "conflict of interest". Khalid had also warned the government to not indulge and be abusive towards ECP for its stand on electronic voting machine. (Ansar Abbasi, “Attorney general wants to quit,” The News International, 20 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
Justice Ayesha Malik’s appointment to Supreme Court approved by a parliamentary committee
On 19 January, the Parliamentary Committee on appointment of judges approved the nomination of Justice Ayesha Malik to the Supreme Court. Following the parliamentary committee meeting, Chairperson Senator Farooq H. Naek stated that Justice Malik’s elevation was approved unanimously, adding that the committee did not compromise on seniority rules. He also stated that since Justice Malik would be the first woman judge in the Supreme Court and also has a reputation for competence and integrity, the committee had voted in her favour. (Malik Asad, “Parliamentary panel approves Justice Ayesha Malik’s appointment to Supreme Court,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

SHC orders government to set up a task force on enforced disappearance
On 19 January, the Sindh High Court directed the provincial authorities to constitute an enforced disappearance task force for missing persons. The court mandated that the task force must have officers not below the rank of DSP in every district of the metropolis for the recovery of missing persons. Additionally, the court express dissatisfaction over reports filed by police in missing persons’ cases, adding that only stereotype reports were being filed in the cases without any substantial progress. (Ishaq Tanoli, “Sindh govt ordered to set up task force on enforced disappearance,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

ECONOMY
First half of FY 2022 sees fiscal deficit rise by 29 per cent
On 19 January, the national daily The Express Tribune based on its sources reported that the fiscal deficit for the July-December 2021 had reached USD 10.8 billion ( at the recent exchange rates). The size is equal to 3.3 per cent of the GDP. This development comes in the backdrop of decreased spending on public sector development programs. Of the expenditures, 40 per cent of those were used for debt repayments. (Shahbaz Rana, “Income-expense gap widens to Rs1.8tr,” The Express Tribune, 20 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Chinese envoy meets COAS at Army HQ
On 19 January Chinese ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong discussed aspects of CPEC. Regional security and newer avenues of bilateral cooperation. ISPR released a statement which said, Mr Rong was satisfied with “progress on CPEC and reaffirmed the need for timely completion of the remaining projects.” On the same day Czech envoy met PAF chief Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu at PAF HQ. (“COAS, Chinese envoy discuss CPEC, regional security,” Dawn, 20 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Polio is a purely human health problem and scholars have always played a very positive role in countering it. Even today, with this ongoing campaign, we appeal to the people to play their role in safeguarding the healthy future of children and protecting them from this contagious disease.”
-Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, President of JUI-F

“Pakistan Film Week is kicking off at Dubai Expo from today. Eleven Pakistani films will be screened in Pakistan Enclosure from March 21 to 26. This year will be the year of revival of Pakistan Cinema. This year PTV's Film Division has been established. Which will make ten films in the public-private sector”
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting

“According to The Economist, Pakistan ranks third in the world in terms of inflation. After The Economist's report, people are asking the government whether Pakistan is still the cheapest country in the region. The whole world is saying that inflation is rising in Pakistan but the federal government is not ready to accept it.”
- Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary leader

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn on “Too great a divide” provides a bleak predicament on reconciliation of ruling and opposition parties. In the light of Minister Fawad Chaudhry’s remarks on engaging opposition on electoral and judicial reforms, the author writes “his words will prove to be mere rhetoric unless they are backed by confidence-building measures to create an environment of mutual trust.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Military inductees” brings light to a noteworthy Senate debate by the opposition; which questioned the PTI on increasing “militarisation of civil institutions.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Suu Kyi charges” highlights Myanmar’s ruling junta’s efforts to “spin a complicated legal web around Aung San Suu Kyi” in order to keep her away from civil politics. The author, however, suggests that in order to bring peace and development, “sustained democracy” is the way forward.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Increasing telecom tax” stresses on how “people with limited income” will bear the brunt of new taxes under mini-budget.

An editorial in The Express Tribune believes that “Decentralisation of more administrative units and creation of new provinces is indispensable in a rapidly devolving world, referring to “Saraiki province.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Extradition treaty with UK” emphasizes PTI’s continued negotiations with the British since 2019. On top of PTI’s mind is to ultimately repatriate former PM Nawaz Sharif, nevertheless “there is reason to believe that talks are not as advanced as Pakistani authorities would suggest”, the author writes.  

An editorial in The News International on “Terror attacks” in Islamabad carried out by TTP on 17 January 2021. It reiterates that the “recent terror attacks in Islamabad and in the rest of the country show that extremist and militant outfits of various brands are not to be taken lightly in the hope of a reconciliation.”

An editorial in The News International on Adiala report, disclosed “the culture of lawlessness” prevalent at the Rawalpindi’s Central Jail. Be it inequal treatment of prisoners parallel to their financial status, or political influence, or sudden postings and transfers of junior staff by the higher authorities fitting their needs- reveals the state of lawlessness.

An opinion on “The other security threats” appreciates the NSP for bringing in the scope for resolving security threats and has established symbiotic relationship between traditional and non-traditional threats affecting Pakistan.

An opinion in Dawn written by Nighat Dad titled, “New law, new hope” on the recent amendment to the Act of 2010 on the Harassment of Women at Workplace Bill, writes “the bill is a welcome and historic development for all women, men and transgender communities in the country.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune written by Imtiaz Gul questions on “how can Pakistan ensure its water security in the presence of an elaborate NSP that has marginally touched on the issue?”

 

“Matters may not be as extreme at present as they were then, but there are still a significant number of military inductees in civilian posts, a situation at odds with a democracy and bound to create disgruntlement among civilian officers qualified for these positions.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Military inductees”

 


Bilawal offers conditional possibility of working with the PDM


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
POLITICS
Bilawal offers conditional possibility of working with the PDM
On 18 January, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari praising the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) for considering the option of a no-trust move against the government said, “If they (PDM) are ready to withdraw their stance on the issue of en-mass resignations and consider my proposal of bringing a no-confidence motion, then certainly there is a possibility that we can work together.” He said, “My demand from the first day was to bring a no-confidence motion against this government,” adding, “The government should be dislodged through democratic means.” (Amir Wasim, “Bilawal sees probability of opposition parties working together,” Dawn, 19 January 2022) (“Bilawal offers conditional reconciliation with PDM,” The Express Tribune, 19 January 2022)

Information minister says government willing to cooperate and work together with opposition
On 18 January, during a press briefing information and broadcasting minister extended an olive branch to opposition parties and said “We want to engage the opposition on important national issues like electoral and judicial reforms and the appointment of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman.” He also clarified the government position on naval sailing club case and urea shortage country in the country. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt extends olive branch to opposition amid uproar over bills,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

ECP orders declassification of key documents in PTI foreign funding case
On 18 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) ordered for the declassification of all critical documents linked to the PTI’s foreign funding case. The documents bring made public will include, “(1) list of all bank accounts maintained by PTI anywhere in Pakistan from 2009 to 2013, with date-wise details of transactions, (2) Country-wise list of all fund transfer to the PTI accounts from abroad from 2009 to 2013 separately for each financial year, including names/particulars of remitters, and (3) monthly bank statements of all the accounts maintained/operated by PTI in Pakistan and abroad for each financial year i.e. 2009 to 2013.”

Additionally, the ECP has rejects PTI’s plea to keep its funding record secret, stating, “we are astonished as to how we can pass such an order when report submitted before us has become a public document. Therefore, being not convincing, application stands rejected.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “ECP declassifies key documents in PTI foreign funding case,” Dawn, 19 January 2022) (“ECP rejects PTI’s plea to keep its funding record secret,” The Express Tribune, 19 January 2022)

PTI MNA apologies apologises to ECP for offensive remarks
On 18 January, the PTI MNA Jamshed Iqbal Cheema during the hearing of his contempt notice by the ECP stated that he has high regard for the election commission, adding, “I apologise if my words offended the ECP.” Meanwhile, the ECP reserved its decision on the notice and adjourned the hearing till 1 February. (“Cheema apologises to ECP for offensive remarks,” The Express Tribune, 18 January 2022)

Maryam refutes the claim of cracks within PML(N)
 On 18 January, after attending her appeals against her wrong conviction by NAB in Avenfield she said “Instead of following his example and borrowing the boots from him, they [PTI leaders] spent winter nights in the heated bedrooms of their official residences, maintained on public expense while tourists were dying in the snow.” She said that the government was trying to divert attention to politics to avoid the heat of incompetence of the government in dealing with tragedies. (Malik Asad, “Maryam trashes claim of cracks in PML-N ranks,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

INTERNAL
“This is not a matter of petty theft or dacoity, this purely is an act of terrorism,” says Interior Ministry
 On 18 January, following the attack of a police party in Islamabad, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed warned that this was a signal that terrorism had come to Islamabad, saying, “This is not a matter of petty theft or dacoity, this purely is an act of terrorism.” Meanwhile, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the shootout that took place in Karachi Company police precincts in Sector G-8 in which one policeman was killed. (Munawer Azeem, “Terror has come to the capital, interior minister fears,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

JUDICIARY
Missing persons’ commission failed to cope with the menace of enforced disappearances, says IHC
On 18 January, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) observed that the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances had failed to cope with the menace of enforced disappearances as well as recover the missing persons. In this regard, the court asked the Attorney General (AGP) to take steps to prosecute officials responsible for abducting citizens. Additionally, IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah asked the AGP to suggest measures to end the impunity. (“IHC asks AG to prosecute officials responsible for abduction of citizens,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Pakistan to launch Sukuk bonds worth over USD 1 billion
On 18 January, Pakistan Global Sukuk Programme Company a special purpose vehicle of the government of Pakistan declared a seven-year dollar-denominated internal Islamic product valued at over USD 1 billion. The joint lead managers and book runners — Dubai Islamic Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank — have already started the process of marketing the bond and expected to begin book-building for the transaction. PGSPC will pledge the bond back by motorway projects and the issuance is in consonance with IMF approval to continue with EFF program with Pakistan. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Pakistan kicks off process for Sukuk bond launch,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

Pakistan received 20 per cent higher FDI in July-December 2021
On 18 January, SBP released its half-yearly of trade and economics statistics. The report noted that net FDI stood at USD 1.05 billion compared to USD 879.9 billion of the previous year. China was the highest contributor of FDI and invested USD 306 million followed by the USA, Hong Kong, The Netherlands and Singapore. However, sector-wise the FDI was only lower in the coal sector and thermal power compared to the previous financial year, other sectors such as the oil and gas sector, financial business and IT recorded higher FDI. (Shahid Iqbal, “Foreign direct investment increases 20pc in July-December,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan and UK agree to finalise agreement on repatriation of convicted criminals
On 18 January, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed met with UK High Commissioner Christian Turner in Islamabad during which the two sides agreed to finalise and sign agreements for repatriation of convicted citizens and criminals. Additionally, they agreed that bilateral agreements would help further strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Further, Rashid stated that Pakistan and the United Kingdom have long-standing ties and “we attach immense importance to our relations.” (“Pakistan, UK agree to ink pact on repatriation of convicted criminals,” The Express Tribune, 19 January 2022)

FM receives telephone from UAE counterpart to discuss Abu Dhabi terror attack
On 18 January Foreign Office released a statement based on the latest telephonic conversation between Pakistan foreign minister and his Abu Dhabi counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan about Pakistan condemnation of the terrorist attack in which three people died, one of which was a Pakistani national. The foreign office spokesperson said “Pakistan and UAE have excellent fraternal ties. The two foreign ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening and deepening bilateral relations further,”. (Kamrani Yousaf, “Pakistan, UAE FMs discuss Abu Dhabi terror attack,” Dawn, 19 January 2022)

Pakistan compensates Chinese national who died in terrorist attack at Dasu Dam
On 18 January Pakistan paid compensations ranging from USD 4.6 million to USD 20.3 billion to the 36 Chinese national who had died and got injured in the suicide attack on the bus which was carrying them. This is the second compensation Pakistan has paid to foreign nationals who lost their lives due to unforeseen circumstances. This week Pakistan paid compensation to the family of Sri Lankan national who was lynched in Sialkot. The move is speculated to remove irritants in bilateral relations between Pakistan and China. (Shahbaz Rana, “Pakistan to pay Dasu attack Chinese victims,” The Express Tribune, 19 January)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"PTI’s manifesto promises the creation of a separate province for the people of South Punjab. Irrespective of political affiliation, the national interest requires unity on a Constitutional amendment. As VC of PTI, I invite opposition leaders to join us in making this a reality."
-Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister

"For countries, going to the IMF is like an individual going to an emergency room in a hospital. If someone has to keep going to ER frequently, there is an untreated underlying condition that needs treatment."
-Husain Haqqani, Director of Hudson Institute

“It is incomprehensible to conduct general elections through EVM without experience. Nowhere in the world have elections been held without pilot testing. You are already accused of managing elections through RTS. It is the constitutional responsibility of the government to review the objections of the Election Commission and the opposition parties.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary Leader

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “UAE targeted” highlights the deteriorating situation after Houthi rebels conducted UAE strikes. “The fact is that unless the Yemen quagmire is addressed in a holistic manner and a peaceful resolution is found, this deadly cycle of attacks and counter-attacks will continue”, says the author.

An editorial in Dawn titled “New province debate” has garnered support for the creation of a new province in south Punjab. The major political parties are already divided on the issue, while PTI and PML-N bewildered behavior is quite understandable, PPP is very supportive of the idea.

An editorial in Dawn raises concern over the spread of Omicron in Karachi. Karachi lately has been contributing 66 per cent of the total cases being reported in the country, “the situation in the city is especially precarious”, says the writer.

An editorial in The Express Tribune “Scourge of Child labor” expresses regret for 3.3 million children who are coerced to work in their early childhood. The writer believes even after state institutions have worked to tackle the problem through constitutional amendments, it is “obviously hamstrung by its limited funds and official manpower at its disposal to fully and practically eradicate the scourge.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “World Bank growth forecast” emphasizes WB unchanged prediction of 3.4 per cent growth. However, that figure is much below the government's already low prediction of 4.8 percent. It's also one of the lowest in South Asia, and considerably below the worldwide growth rate of 4.1 percent overall and 4.6 percent for developing economies predicted by the World Bank.

An opinion in The Express Tribune stresses on “building a self-sustaining and dynamic economy, however, is no easy challenge” says Talat Masood on “National Security Policy- a perspective.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Kazakhstan in the grey zone”, the author says “when the news about unrest in Kazakhstan hit the headlines, it drew the attention of common Pakistanis.”

An opinion in Dawn on “Vicious cycle of politics” written by Zahid Hussain believes that as general elections are approaching, “the political atmosphere has become more pernicious.” Why? Simply because the season of conspiracy theories has begun.

An opinion in Dawn written by Rafia Zakaria focuses on how the pandemic has worsened the mental health of people across countries. She writes, “In Pakistan, those with issues related to anxiety and depression already suffer from the lack of available mental health treatment; and those who have developed these issues during the pandemic have no chance whatsoever to avail them.”

An opinion in The News International highlights PM Imran Khan’s recent statements on wanting to play to bridge the gap between the US and China. The author believes that there is “a lack of understanding of the current complexities of US-China relations and an inflated self-image of Pakistan’s diplomatic stature in the prevailing international environment.” Rather it must focus on “maintaining good relations with both”, says the writer.

 

“Not surprisingly, the security establishment remains the final arbiter of power as the squabbling political forces vie with one another to earn its blessings. Interestingly, the entire political discourse revolves around whose side the establishment is on.”

-An opinion in Dawn on “Vicious cycle of politics”

 


President formally appoints Justice Umar Ata Bandial as next chief judge


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
President formally appoints Justice Umar Ata Bandial as next chief judge
On 17 January, President Arif Alvi formally appointed Justice Umar Ata Bandial, as Pakistan’s next chief judge. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice, “In exercise of the powers conferred by Article 175(3) read with Article 177 of the Constitution, the president of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is pleased to appoint Mr Justice Umar Ata Bandial, the most senior judge of the Supreme Court, as chief justice of Pakistan with effect [from] Feb 2, 2022.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Umar Ata Bandial formally named country’s next top judge,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

ECP suspends 150 lawmakers’ membership for not filing asset details
On 17 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) released a list of MNAs, senators and MPAs of the four provincial assemblies who failed to file their statements of assets and liabilities for the fiscal year that ended on 30 June 2021. A total of 150 legislators’ membership was suspended by the ECP for not filing their statements of their assets. (Kalbe Ali, “150 lawmakers lose membership for not filing asset details,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

Compliance report sought on demolition of illegal navy building by IHC
On 17 January, Islamabad High Court ordered the cabinet secretary division to file a compliance report on the recent judgements given by IHC. The judgement by IHC ordered the navy sailing club to be razed within three weeks as the club lied on the embankment of Rawal lake and also declared another building illegally occupied on Simly Dam road. IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah also ordered criminal proceedings against the former naval chief for inaugurating the sailing club which lied within the limits of Shakarparian National Park. (Malik Asad, “IHC seeks compliance report over ‘illegal’ navy buildings,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

Bill for creation of South Punjab province introduced in Senate
On 17 January, a private member bill seeking creation of south Punjab province was introduced by Rana Mehmoodul Hasan of PML(N), it received political support from both major parties, PTI and PPP in the senate. There was another bill introduced on the same day by PPP senator Farooq H. Naek to introduce parliaments role in appointment of judges, to bring a right to appeal in suo-moto cases taken up by judiciary and to bring in a rule of seniority in appointment and elevation of judges in SC. (Iftikhar A Khan, “PTI, PPP back south Punjab province bill,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

Investigating body probing Murree tragedy may not submit its findings on time
On 17 January, sources close to the committee shared that the probe report may miss the Monday deadline as it needed for time for coming out with recommendations. The committee had done extensive quizzing and collected records from different departments while also interviewing survivors and victims of the tragedy. (Imran Asghar, “Murree tragedy inquiry report faces delay,” The Express Tribune, 18 January 2022)

Sialkot lynched victim’s family receives grant
On 18 January, Dawn reported that family of Priyantha Kumara, who was lynched on blasphemy charges in Sialkot received grants from Rajco Industries and the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Rajco Industries has sent Rs17.6 million as financial aid and SCCI raised usd 100,000 as financial assistance for the family. (“Lynching victim’s wife receives aid,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

POLITICS
PM is hypocritical and exploiting religion for self-interests, says Shehbaz Sharif
On 17 January, opposition leader in the national assembly and PML(N) president Shehbaz Sharif took to twitter to attack the PM. He said “Really concerned with the way Prime Minister is using religion as a cover-up for the massive governance & economic breakdown the country has suffered in decades due to his policies. Such a self-serving approach will wreak greater damage upon the polity than is being understood.” (“PM using religion to cover up failures, says Shehbaz,” The News International, 18 January 2022)

Will reverse the SBP bill if brought to power, says Shahid Khaqan Abbasi
On 17 January, PML(N) senior vice president and former PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi that ruling government had undermined parliamentary rules to pass SBP amendment bills among others. HE added that SBP bill would make the governor very powerful and autonomous and PML(N) would reverse the impact of the bill by bringing another ordinance to safeguard country’s economic sovereignty. (Amir Wasim, “PML-N will reverse SBP bill after coming to power: ex-PM Shahid Khaqan,” Dawn, 18 January)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Development budget of the merged tribal areas has been doubled since 2018, says PM Khan
On 17 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that the development budget of the merged tribal areas has been doubled since 2018, claiming that the government increased the development budget from Rs24 billion in 2018 to Rs54 billion this year. Additionally, he stated that the development of merged areas was one of the PTI government’s foremost priorities. (“Merged districts’ budget doubled since 2018: PM Imran,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two children killed in grenade explosion in Swat
On 17 January, two children were killed while another was injured in a grenade explosion in Kala Kallay area of Kabal tehsil in Swat. According to the police, “The children had found the grenade near their house and put it into the fireplace inside their house, causing it to explode, leaving the two brothers dead and injuring the third.” (“Grenade explosion kills two children in Swat,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

Balochistan: A report on ‘Revisiting massacre of Hazara miners’
On 18 January, Dawn in a report titled ‘Revisiting massacre of Hazara miners’ highlights the plight of the Hazara community since the 2020 killing of coal miners in Mach. Dawn quoting a Hazara coal mine contractor stated that over the past several years many Hazaras have left the Mach coal town, stating, “The killing of four Hazaras in Mach at the end of its bazaar in 2013 triggered their migration towards Quetta.” (Muhammad Akbar Notezai, “Revisiting massacre of Hazara miners,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Government set to review the executive power of Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP)
On 17 January, PM Imran Khan nodded for the presentation of a summary of the scope of work of federal auditors. The attorney general had opined that AGP office work is to be remain limited to the audit of accounts and not venture into the performance of government enterprises like the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) which sign MoUs with regard to payment to independent power producers. The AGP in reply has refused to accept the advice citing constitutional violations if done so. (Shahbaz Rana, “Govt to clip wings of Auditor General,” The Express Tribune, 18 January 2022).
 
EXTERNAL
PM Khan speaks with President Putin; reassures interest for gas project  
On 17 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan on in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin reassured him of Pakistan’s commitment to collaborate with Russia on the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline Project. According to a statement from the PMO’s office, “The prime minister underscored that Pakistan’s bilateral relationship with Russia was on an upward trajectory, with an increased focus on trade and economic ties and energy cooperation. He reiterated the government’s resolve for early realisation of the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline Project.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Pakistan keen to work on gas project, PM Imran assures Putin,” Dawn, 18 January 2022)

ON CPEC
Pakistan envoy to China terms CPEC phase II as much broader
On 17 January, Pakistan ambassador to China Moinul Haque in an interview termed the phase II of the CPEC as much broader in scope and its focused-on relocation of industries, agricultural modernization, cooperation in S&T and job creation. He added that Gwadar free trade zone would help in promoting futher regional connectivity. He said that two countries agreed to welcome and encourage high-quality investments from third party participation. (“CPEC phase-II much broader,” The Express Tribune, 18 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“With the appointment of Justice Umar Ata Bandial as Chief Justice, a very important period has begun for the judiciary. This year, five judges are to be appointed in the Supreme Court and several dozen in the High Court. Justice can change.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting

“Really concerned with the way Prime Minister is using religion as a cover-up for the massive governance & economic breakdown the country has suffered in decades due to his policies. Such a self-serving approach will wreak greater damage upon the polity than is being understood.”
-Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly.

“Just spoke to President Putin primarily to express my appreciation for his emphatic statement that freedom of speech could not be a pretext to abuse our Prophet PBUH. He is the first Western leader to show empathy & sensitivity to Muslim sentiment for their beloved Prophet PBUH”
-Prime Minister Imran Khan

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “The establishment pivot” highlights the recent meeting of members of PML-N with ‘some important' people after strained relations between PTI and the establishment. On contrary, author writes, “After more than seven decades as an independent nation envisioned as a democracy by its founding father, it is a sad reality that the power matrix continues to revolve around the establishment.”

An editorial in Dawn on constant inflow of remittances, emphasizes the strong increase in remittances from Pakistanis residing abroad continues to defy expectations. Dawn reported “Remittances increased by 11.3 percent to an all-time high of $15.8 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year through December, according to new State Bank figures.

An editorial in Dawn titled “China-Iran deal” upholds the recent long-term bilateral agreement among the two countries. The author claims “it is also a powerful symbolic gesture between the two states designed to send a signal to the US-led Western bloc.” However, the author warns Iran to “tread carefully in the game of bloc politics.”

An opinion written by Arifa Noor, brings the attention of the reader to the latest National Human Development Report on Pakistan. The report says, “the Human Development Index of the richest 20pc of Pakistanis is similar to the average in China and Egypt while the poorest 20pc have an HDI which is lower than Ethiopia and comparable to Chad.

An opinion in Dawn titled “National Security” written by Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, discusses the implementation strategy of National Security Policy. He also raises important questions on its periodical review of progress, centralised monitoring, civil and military leadership nexus and the playout of grassroot governance.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Synagogue attack” expresses disappointment as there was “nocondemnation of the incident by the Pakistani government”. The incident is connection with “hours-long hostage situation at a synagogue in Texas.”

An opinion in The News International titled “IMF prescriptions” revolves around the question “how many IMF programmes do we need before realising that their short-sighted prescriptions are not going to solve any of our fundamental economic problems?”

 

“After more than seven decades as an independent nation envisioned as a democracy by its founding father, it is a sad reality that the power matrix continues to revolve around the establishment.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “The establishment pivot”

 


A Senate Standing Committee to scrutinise foreign visits of PM and former leader


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
A Senate Standing Committee to scrutinise foreign visits of PM and former leader
On 17 January, Dawn reported that the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs will meet on 19 January to scrutinise foreign visits of Prime Minister Imran Khan and former rulers of the country. Additionally, the committee would also be taking up the issue of over 9,000 Pakistanis who are in prisons of 73 different countries. (Amir Wasim, “Senate panel to scrutinise foreign visits of PM, former rulers on 19th,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

Increase in power and petrol prices is ‘economic murder’ of people, says Bilawal
On 16 January, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on the increase of Rs4 in power tariff, prices of petroleum products had now been raised by more than Rs3 per litre stated that this was “economic murder” of the people committed by the PTI government. Further, he said that the PPP’s long march was aimed at saving people from inflation and economic crisis, stating, “Inflation and unemployment must end; it had become all the more necessary to get rid of the present government.” (“Increase in power, petrol prices is ‘economic murder’ of people: Bilawal,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

PM Khan would complete his constitutional tenure, says Interior Minister
On 16 January, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that Prime Minister Imran Khan would complete his constitutional tenure, ruling out the chances of in-house change in the National Assembly. He said, “There is no threat to the PTI government from the opposition’s long marches,” adding that if the opposition tabled a no-confidence motion against Imran Khan, it would face the same destiny as it did in the passing of the finance bill. (“Sheikh Rashid rules out in-house change in National Assembly,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

NRA biggest initiatives to turn Pakistan into Madina-like state, says PM Khan
On 17 January, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan in an article he had written for various newspapers under the caption “Spirit of Riyasat-i-Madina: Transforming Pakistan” stated, “In the light of our ideals, we have embarked on the road to the welfare state with some great initiatives. Despite tight financial means, we allocated unprecedented amount of money to our initiatives such as the Ehsaas Programme which was a social safety and poverty alleviation programme necessary for the vulnerable groups in society,” adding, “This was one of our key initiatives towards building a state that cares about the welfare of our citizens.” (“Rule of law is immediate challenge, says PM Imran,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

Dates for Islamabad LG polls yet to be announced
On 17 January, Dawn reported that the authorities are yet to announced the dates for holding local government election in Islamabad even though a year has passed since the last local government completed its tenure. Since the last Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) ceased to exist on 15 February 2021, the government has not passed the Local Government Act 2021 passed by Parliament. Meanwhile, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Ali Nawaz Awan stated that the government would hold the elections in May. (Kashif Abbasi, “One year after end of previous term, Islamabad awaits LG polls,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

PEMRA and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting at loggerheads over 5 newly sanctioned posts
On 10 January, the administrative body of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting censured PEMRA for bypassing the rules for creating 5 new top-level posts which would destabilize the financial calculation of budgeting for ministry. In response to the letter from the ministry, PEMRA replied that it generates its own revenue and it had the authority to create post for autonomous bodies. (Malik Asad, “Information Ministry, Pemra at odds over creation of ‘unsanctioned’ top posts,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

PTI starts the information war on PML(N)
On 16 January, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry claimed that there were internal rifts within PML (N) and the top four Sharifs (Shahbaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Nawaz Sharif and Hamza Shahbaz Sharif) were set to leave out the top posts of PML(N). He said, “If a party leadership is away, leaders of the other opposition parties start expressing their fear that the former might be striving for a ‘deal’,”. PML(N) leader Rana Sanaullah countered the claims as mere speculations and claimed PTI was scared of its declining popularity and was making stories for gaining traction due to upcoming elections. (Mansoor Malik, “PML-N’s top four sought to replace Nawaz, claims Fawad Chaudhry,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Gadani shipyard to receive relief package from the government
On 16 January, while speaking to a delegation of local industrialists led by the Pakistan Shipbreakers Association (PSA) federal minister for planning, development and special initiatives Asad Umar vowed to speak to PM on the economic development of Balochistan and providing new employment opportunities. He also hinted at setting up of special economic zone to utilise the capacity of Gadani ship scrapping yard and establish steel and other allied industry while also using raw materials from ship scrapping for providing cheap material for housing scheme for the same people. (“Umar vows relief package for Gadani workers,” The Express Tribune, 17 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
PNS Alamgir visits Tanzania as part of ‘Engage Africa’ policy
On 16 January, the Pakistan Navy Ship visited Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, as part of the overseas deployment in Africa and established a free medical camp as a goodwill gesture from the people of Pakistan. The ship established a fee medical camp and provided medical treatment, consultations and medicines to over 2,500 patients. The training officer and Chief of Medical Services Tanzanian People Defence Force discussed matters of mutual interests and committed to enhancing bilateral ties. (“PNS Alamgir visits Tanzania,” Dawn, 17 January 2022)

Pakistan NSA to visit Afghanistan in urgency of humanitarian crises
On 17 January, The Express Tribune reported that on the instruction of PM Imran Khan national security advisor, Dr Moeed Yusuf is set to visit Afghanistan. From the issues of food scarcity to stabilising economic scarcity and border disputes are set to be discussed. The visit comes amid the UN warning of impeding humanitarian crises in the country and this is the second high-level visit by Pakistan since the August takeover of the Taliban. (Kamrani Yousaf, “NSA set to visit Afghanistan to assess humanitarian situation,” The Express Tribune, 17 January 2022

 

Pakistan on Twitter

KP Board of Investment have outdone themselves; MoUs worth $8 bln investment signed at Dubai Expo, including several in the tourism sector. The onus is now on us to further improve the investment climate ecosystem, a commitment we will not shy away from.
-Taimur Khan Jhagra, Finance & Health Minister, Pakhtunkhwa

Laying the foundation of the world's greatest civilization, take a look at the guiding principles laid down for the state of Madinah by our Holy Prophet! As a nation and state, in order to realize our potential, we in Pakistan today must strive to adapt ourselves to these principles.
-Prime Minister Imran Khan

“The government wants to talk to the political parties. We want electoral reform, reform of the judiciary and accountability system. This is not possible without opposition.
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn talks about Pakistan's “freshly unveiled National Security Policy (NSP)”. The author here has appreciated the NSP’s attempt to incorporate both traditional and non-traditional security threats as well as its addition to existing state policy’s toolkit. However, the possible test for the nation, the author states, is the issue of trade with India and its wider acceptance by the political opposition in the country.

An editorial in Dawn titled “Bold decisions” highlights IHC’s order to demolish two Pakistan Navy’s projects on encroached lands. The author considers these decisions to be “bold and historic decisions as they hold powerful entities accountable for abusing their authority and violating land use laws

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Lifeline inflows” puts forward the significant role of remittances in Pakistan’s economy. The author claims that Pakistanis living abroad are a valuable resource and the large inflow of remittances from them is the backbone of economic revival.

An opinion in The Express Tribune written by PM Imran Khan emphasizes on why the establishment of Rahmatul Lil ‘Alamin Authority (NRA) is necessary. Imran Khan writes, the most urgent of all challenges facing our country right now is the struggle to establish the rule of law”. Hence, in order to invoke the spirit of the covenant of Madina based on important principles such as “unity, justice and rule of law, moral and ethical foundation, inclusion of all humans in progress and prosperity and finally the quest for knowledge” has to be reiterated.

An opinion in Dawn written by Maleeha Lodhi on “Evading responsibility” in connection to the Murree tragedy; questions “if all negative developments are someone else’s fault, what is the government there for?

An opinion in Dawn titled “Battle over the bottle” upholds the disastrous implication of the “government’s proposal of making infant formula milk and other baby food expensive.” This implies that the numbers of malnourished children can shoot up. Nevertheless, the author provides interesting analysis on tackling malnutrition in Pakistan.

 

“It is a sorry reflection of the authorities’ inability or lack of willingness to implement court orders that ruffle elite feathers. The IHC directive to demolish the navy projects is a test case for the Islamabad administration to prove if a ‘naya’ Pakistan is at all possible.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Bold decisions”

 


National Security Policy that identified economic security as the core element


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
National Security Policy identifies economic security as the core element
On 14 January, a public version of the National Security Policy (NSP) 2022-2026 was unveiled by Prime Minister Imran Khan terming it as “all-encompassing and multi-dimensiona.”. The policy states, “Pakistan’s vital national security interests are best served by placing economic security as the core element of national security. The country’s security imperatives in the next decade will be driven by the need to realise its economic potential while ensuring national cohesion, territorial integrity, internal security, and citizen welfare.” The policy brought out the concept of ‘comprehensive national security’ comprising economic, human, and traditional security for the “safety, security, dignity, and prosperity” of the people. Additionally, the policy said, “Pakistan’s future lies in embracing change and breaking the inertia of status-quo in a world that is undergoing fundamental transformation,” emphasizing on a refocusing of diplomatic efforts for engagement with the outside world under “new realities.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Security policy places economy front and centre,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

Senate observes revolting conduct of opposition members
On 14 January, opposition members in Senate claimed that government policies are inciting people to revolt. Leader of Opposition in Senate, Yusuf Raza Gilani remarked on price hikes and said “Increases every month can’t be tolerated by the people. Indeed, they are being incited for agitation,”. The barbs were exchanged from both the sides. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Mini-budget, power tariff prompt bad blood in Senate,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

An amended anti-harassment bill passed by National Assembly
On 14 January, the National Assembly passed the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Amendment Bill 2022 as amended by the Senate. The Ministry of Human Rights said that the bill was drafted by the Ministry of Human Rights to help increased participation of women in the workforce and to remove gaps in the protection against harassment law in Pakistan. (“National Assembly passes amended anti-harassment bill,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

Nine-member special medical board to examine Nawaz’s medical reports
On 14 January, a nine-member special medical board was constituted by the specialised healthcare and medical education department to examine the documents submitted as medical reports of Nawaz Sharif by his physician Dr David Lawrence. The board was created on the instructions of the federal cabinet to examine the reports submitted by Sharif’s physician to obtains opinion on the patient’s physical condition and his capability to travel to Pakistan. (“Board formed to examine Nawaz’s medical reports,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: One terrorist killed in IBO in North Waziristan
On 14 January, one terrorist was killed and two others were apprehended by security forces during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Miranshah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), “Army troops initiated a prompt response and effectively engaged the terrorists’ location,” adding, “Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists.” (“One terrorist killed, two others held in North Waziristan IBO,” The Express Tribune, 15 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Roshan Digital Accounts bring year on year upsurge in remittances
On 14 January, SBP shared the data for remittances and the data reflected a month on month increase of 2.5 per cent while for year-on-year comparison the increase was of 3.4 per cent. For the month December highest remittances came from Saudi Arabia, followed by UAE, UK and USA. For the first half of FY 2022 (July-December) the remittances stood at net USD 15.8 billion. (“Remittances above $2bn mark for seventh straight month,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Government request to open donation account for Afghanistan refused by SBP
On 14 January, the SBP had returned the request from the government in directing banks to facilitate the opening of bank account which would receive donations from across Pakistan for relief measures in Afghanistan. The SBP warned that such a step might be unnecessarily scrutinized by FATF. The refusal can be understood in terms of recently brought up SBP amendment bills that empower the SBP governor. (Shahbaz Rana, “SBP refuses to open Afghanistan Relief Fund,” The Express Tribune, 15 January 2022

Pakistan to vouch for the cause of developing nations as it assumes the chair of G77
On 14 January, foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in his inaugural speech mentioned that Pakistan was a founding member of G77 and it stands for debt restructuring in developing nations. He added that the pandemic had disproportionately affected the developing countries and there needs to be coordinated efforts to deal with economic downturn and climate change. (Anwar Iqbal, “FM Qureshi urges importance of debt restructuring as Pakistan assumes G77 chair,” Dawn, 15 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

Without eff delivery system, PTI can copy-paste ideas from PML-N docs & create fancy policies, but as the last 3 yrs show, it failed miserably to deliver even a semblance of decent result. Only PML-N has shown the competence, commitment & capacity to deliver in last two decades.
-Ahsan Iqbal, Sec Gen PML-N

Hi PTI patriots. Hope all is well. Look who is pointing finger towards your leadership? He said “Members who occupy the first three rows in the house are the main culprits of the chaos in the country, so put their names on ECL and Pakistan will survive,”
-Hamid Mir, Journalist

We reject the summary of Rs 5-6 increase in prices of petroleum products. If the Prime Minister is sympathetic to the people, then reject the OGRA summary. Poor people are desperate for a two-time bread because of soaring inflation. Inflation is rising every 15 days due to increase in petrol prices.
-SherryRehman. Parliamentary Leader PPP

Also read...

An editorial in The News International on the Mini-Budget passed in the National Assembly states that the government has tried to make it seem that the withdrawal of some tax exemptions are adjustable, and that these were not taxes, however, taxes imposed will directly or indirectly hit the country’s people.

Similarly, an editorial in Dawn states that Islamabad will not be able to exit the IMF in the medium term even after completion of the current programme because ruling elites refuse to learn from the past, adopt a frugal lifestyle that suits poor countries like ours and pay taxes.

An editorial in The News International states that the problem is that these much-needed reforms are coming at a time of severe economic instability when most people cannot risk or even afford the burden of significant new taxes.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on Murree Incident states that is a grim reminder that the country lacks a proactive strategy to deal with natural disasters.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on containing HIV states that the governments at the Centre and in Sindh should have worked together to create a tracking and testing mechanism to determine the severity and contain the outbreak.

Fahd Husain in an opinion in Dawn states that PTI has been struggling with its internal wrangling for years, however, never did anyone point a finger at the leader himself until now.

Pervez Hoodbhoy in an opinion in Dawn argues that unless Pakistanis learn to value the works of non-Muslims, science in Pakistan shall remain dead.

 

Can the ECP, instead of just acting as a post office, take the trouble of scrutinising even a small, randomly selected sample of audited annual statements of accounts submitted by political parties…This, of course, requires a political finance wing at the ECP staffed with qualified chartered accountants experienced in matters relating to political finance.

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Scrutiny and beyond’
 

 


Mini-Budget passed through National Assembly


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
ECONOMY
Mini budget bill, SBP amendment among others rushed through Parliament
On 13 January, PTI led coalition government managed to pass the Finance Supplementary bill and SBP amendment bill among 16 bills amid uproar in Parliament. The sitting session extended till late night and main opposition leaders from PPP and PML(N) were present for most of the time. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Mini-budget among 16 bills bulldozed through National Assembly,” Dawn, 14 January 2022)

Opposition in unison over criticizing the mini-budget bill
On 13 January the opposition cried foul for the economic policies of the government and poor people will continue to be strangled. PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif warned that “The lives of the people have become unbearable. The mini-budget will create a storm of inflation,”. PPP senators while speaking to the media said that the country was gradually handed over to the IMF. (“Opposition protests against ‘mini-budget, inflation’,” The Express Tribune, 14 January 2022)

INTERNAL
ECP informed that more legislation would be required before EVMs and Internet-based voting are introduced
On 13 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) secretary during a meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja gave a brief of the findings of three committees that had been formed to implement legislation on electronic voting machines (EVMs) and internet-based voting. The ECP was informed that further legislation would be required before EVMs and Internet-based voting for overseas Pakistanis could be introduced. Meanwhile, CEC Raja gave permission to start the process of tendering for procurement of EVMs for these pilot projects. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “More legislation needed before EVMs may be used, ECP told,” Dawn, 14 January 2021)

Pervez Khattak confront PM on centers neglect of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On 14 January, Dawn reported that Defence Minister Pervez Khattak confronted Prime Minister Imran Khan about neglecting of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) by the Centre. He said, “Imran Khan is my leader and prime minister and I did not tell him that I will not vote for him if gas connections are not given to the people of KP.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Pervez Khattak confronts PM Imran at parliamentary party meeting,” Dawn, 14 January 2021)

Long march to would weigh heavily on the PTI government, says Bilawal
On 13 January, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari promised that the PPP’s long march on Islamabad in February would weigh heavily on the PTI government. He said that the long march against “this incompetent government” would start from the Mazar-e-Quaid and culminate in Islamabad to achieve its objectives, adding, “The PPP will play the role of real opposition for the solution of the problems of the people. The PPP will expose the incompetent government of the PTI and send it home,” stating, “The country is facing a serious crisis and only the PPP will steer it out of the crisis.” (Hafeez Tunio, “Bilawal promises to achieve goal of long march,” Dawn, 14 January 2021)

CCI approves conduct of seventh census
On 14 January, Dawn reported that the Council of Common Interests (CCI) during its 49th meeting approved the conduct of the Seventh Population and Housing Census and the establishment of the census monitoring committee. Additionally, Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that the frequency of CCI meetings could be increased as per the demands of the provinces. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Pervez Khattak confronts PM Imran at parliamentary party meeting,” Dawn, 14 January 2021)

Governance not being handled in the spirit it was supposed to be, says CJP
On 13 January, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed stated that the governance in the country had become too complicated and was not being handled in the spirit it was supposed to be. He said, “The capacity to enforce rights of the citizens is not growing [and] as a result the hapless people of this country are facing typical problems and their fundamental rights are being violated with impunity.” He added that as a result courts are being burdened with petitions on petty issues. (Nasir Iqbal, “Governance not being handled in the right spirit: CJP,” Dawn, 14 January 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan may consider allowing Chinese manufacturers to relocate production facilities in Pakistan
On 13 January, Khalid Mansoor, special assistant to the prime minister on CPEC mentioned that two-three Chinese investors had approached him about possible relocation of their manufacturing units to Pakistan, which would entail training and upskilling of Pakistani youths. Mr Mansoor shared that Pakistan is looking to ‘scalability’ in indigenous coal production which will be used for the generation of power, fertiliser and would bring down the cost of fuel. Pakistan imports 18 million tons of coal every year. (Kazim Alam, “Chinese manufacturers mull relocating units to Pakistan: Khalid Mansoor,” Dawn, 14 January 2022)

ON CLIMATE CHANGE
Investment in sustainable climate-resilient and inclusive infrastructure needed: PSX chairman
On 12 January speaking at “The Future Summit – What’s Coming Next” Shamshad Akhtar, PSX chairman stated that climate change has been causing an average economic loss of about half a percentage point, or USD 3.8 billion, a year to Pakistan for the past two decades. From fundamental amendments in policy, mainstreaming and integrating sustainability, a robust financing framework for resource mobilization and effectively managing crisis prevention were the main objectives for transition to zero carbon emission with emphasis on long term growth. (Salman Siddiqui, “Climate change causes $3.8b loss,” The Express Tribune, 14 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Yesterday was a dark day in the parliamentary history of Pakistan in which the government imposed a mini-budget on the people who were already in the throes of inflation. The people will never forgive the PTI for making their lives miserable and the time is not far when the nation will reject the PTI forever with the power of their vote.”
-Shehbaz Sharif, leader of the Opposition in National Assembly 

“How unfortunate that Bill on National Metrology Institute of Pakistan was pending since 1997. It was successfully passed after almost 24 years! Extremely grateful to everyone who supported this.”
-Senator Shibli Faraz, Federal Minister for Science & Technology

“The increase of Rs 4.30 per unit in the price of electricity is reprehensible. They are receiving 'incompetence adjustment' not 'fuel adjustment'. An additional Rs 35 billion will be charged to consumers from the increase. Billions of rupees are being looted from consumers every month by burning electricity bills while standing on the container itself.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, PPP Parliamentary Leader

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “PDM’s new tack” shows the re-positioning of the PDM’s earlier stance. Previously, the PDM’s position, which was based on withdrawing from the legislature in order to topple the PTI government. However, it appears that the PDM has now agreed with the PPP that an internal change is the best way to combat the administration.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Threatening debt crisis” highlights the findings of the World Economic forum report. According to the report, in Pakistan, “the debt issue continues to pose the greatest threat to stability, outweighing inflation, climate change, and poor cybersecurity.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled, “Help save Afghans” emphasizes international aid organisations are doing an admirable job of supplying basic necessities and ensuring that two square meals are accessible every day. The editorial also acknowledges the recent lion’s share contribution of US worth USD 308 million to Afghanistan.

An editorial in The News International titled, “Destination IMF” brings out indecisive and non-strategic views of PTI on its own economy. The editorial points that the PTI government is 2018 has been plagued by “to go or not to go to the IMF.” Therefore, the author writes “it is once again displaying a complete lack of understanding of the challenges Pakistan has been facing.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Zubeida Mustafa, titled, “Women’s view” rightly identifies that “the female perspective is missing in patriarchal societies.” Additionally, she calls for an increase in the representation of women in all professions as it finds a healthy balance of opinions in the society.

An opinion in Dawn titled, “An economic collapse?” the author, Shahid Mehmood, provides an interesting analysis of how Pakistan’s economy is “travelling in a circle, without trying to understand why.”

An opinion in Dawn written by Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, titled, “Scrutiny and beyond” poses an important question, i.e., “has the experience of dealing with the foreign funding case made the ECP any wiser?”

 

“What is of concern to me is the lack of recognition of the fact that there is a woman’s point of view on every issue relevant to women that cannot and should not be disregarded. It injects a healthy balance into the discourse on all matters.”

-An  opinion in Dawn on “Women’s view”

 

 


PDM to discuss option of no-confidence on 25 January


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM to discuss option of no-confidence on 25 January
On 12 January, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) has convened a meeting of the heads of component parties of the alliance on 25 January to discuss “options” including tabling of a no-confidence motion against the PTI government. He said, “We are considering options which can be used to immediately send this government packing,” adding, “We appeal to the allies of the government to think in the larger interest of the country and to save the country and the poor people.” Similarly, Shehbaz Sharif said, “Yes, I have talked to Hazrat (Maulana Fazl) about it and it has been decided that this (option of tabling a no-confidence motion) will be a part of the agenda of the upcoming PDM meeting. The decision in this regard will be made after a thorough consultation.” (Amir Wasim, “PDM meeting on 25th to discuss no-confidence option,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

PM Khan visits ISI HQ
On 12 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan along with some cabinet ministers and Army Chief Gen Qamar Bajwa visited the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). According to a statement released after the visit said, “A comprehensive briefing followed by discussion on national security and regional dynamics with focus on ongoing situation in Afghanistan was given.” This was PM Khan’s first session since the new director-general, Lt Gen Nadeem Nadeem Anjum took over. (“PM Imran orders crackdown against urea hoarders,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

Murree probe committee reveals that snow clearing vehicles parked at Sunny Bank
On 12 January, members of the probe committee on their visit to Murree were informed that of the 29 snow-moving heavy vehicles available, 20 of them were parked at Sunny Bank when a snowstorm hit the hill station. Additionally, they were told that drivers and staff deployed to man the vehicles were also not on duty at the time of the blizzard. (Aamir Yasin, “Snow clearing vehicles parked at Sunny Bank during blizzard, Murree probe learns,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

Bashir Memon has exposed the government on the fake case against Shehbaz Sharif, says PML-N
On 12 January, PML-N Punjab information secretary Azma Bokhari said, “Bashir Memon has exposed the government on the fake case against Shehbaz Sharif,” adding that the FIA was being used for political engineering arguing that this effort would fail like that of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). She added, “The Imran Khan government wants escape from the foreign funding case that is why it is targeting Shehbaz Sharif.” (“Bashir Memon discloses FIA’s fake case against Shehbaz: PML-N,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

Supreme Court rejects plea in Iftikhar Chaudhry manhandling case
On 12 January, the Supreme Court rejected pleas moved by former chief commissioner Khalid Pervaiz and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Chaudhry Mohammad Ali, allegedly involved in manhandling former chief justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry on 13 March 2007. The chief justice observed that if this plea was accepted, the administration would never allow the judges of the superior courts to move out of their residence. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC rejects ex-commissioner, DC’s pleas in Iftikhar Chaudhry manhandling case,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

Attorney general asks Punjab government to form board on Nawaz’s health
On 12 January, the attorney general’s office in a letter addressed to Punjab Home Secretary said, : “In order to initiate the process of verification in the light of the Nov 16, 2019 Lahore High Court order, the government of Punjab is requested to constitute a medical board/committee to examine the documents submitted as medical reports on behalf of the petitioner and Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif so that expert medical opinion regarding the physical condition of Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif and his ability to travel back to Pakistan is made available.” (Nasir Iqbal, “AG asks Punjab to form board on Nawaz’s health,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

PM Khan rejects statements on shortage of urea in the country
On 12 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan which chairing a meeting to review the supply and demand situation of fertiliser called for stern action against those involved in profiteering and hoarding fertiliser. He also rejected the impression that there was a shortage of urea in the country. Meanwhile, the issue was raised in the National Assembly, where Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari declared that Pakistan was facing a urea crisis stating, “If urea is being smuggled, then the PTI government is responsible. The allegation on Sindh is a lie.” (“PM Imran orders crackdown against urea hoarders,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Government to push mini-budget through National Assembly
On 13 January, the government is scheduled to move its Finance (Supplementary) Bill 202, generally known as the mini-budge, through National Assembly with the aim to ensure its sixth review of the USD six billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) gets cleared by IMF, allowing for the disbursement of about USD one billion tranche. Meanwhile, the opposition has positioned itself both inside and outside the National Assembly to assert pressure in blocking the government’s bill. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari criticising the PTI government said that it was bringing a "tsunami of taxes" through the mini-budget and maintained that “the ‘PTI-IMF’ budget would create difficulties for the poor segments of the society.” (“Govt all set to bulldoze mini-budget through NA,” The Express Tribune, 13 January 2022)  (“Govt bringing 'tsunami of taxes' through mini-budget, says Bilawal in NA speech,” Dawn, 13 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Afghan territory will not be used against Pakistan, says Taliban government representative
On 12 January, a Taliban government representative while speaking at a webinar organised by the Karachi Council on Foreign Relations (KCFR) said. “Afghan territory will never be allowed to be used by any other country against Pakistan or any other country.”. Further, the representative said, “The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan possesses all the requisites for its recognition by the international community for a fresh start in the region and internationally.” (“Taliban regime fit for international recognition: says envoys,” The Express Tribune, 13 January 2022)

 
 
Pakistan on Twitter

“Yesterday, the Prime Minister visited the ISI Headquarters. The Army Chief, DG ISI, and his team gave a detailed briefing to the Prime Minister on the changing situation in Afghanistan. Our goal is to ensure stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan has done a lot for that. Yes, today the world is getting closer to Pakistan's point of view”
-Ch Fawad Hussain, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Government of Pakistan

“Many PTI members are preparing to revolt against their party before the next National Assembly elections because Imran Khan has done a marvelous job of discrediting the word change in just three years of his government. It has become a mockery and an insult.”
-Hamid Mir, Journalist 

“We welcome the move by the UN following the assistance announced at the OIC Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Pakistan's efforts. I urge the international community to stop the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan where people have been the victims of 40 years of war.”
-PM Imran Khan

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Debt crisis risk” reports the current state of economy in Pakistan. Pakistan's financial issue has been named the greatest danger confronting the country in a new World Economic Forum report. The author argues that “the country's ruling class — politicians, civil and military bureaucracy; have squandered so much money that we now need to borrow more money to not only operate the country but also to repay our debts.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Upbeat Baqir” highlights the recent interview of SBP Governor Reza Baqir. Mr. Baqir stated that there is an adequate financial buffer to manage these external account challenges, but that they will naturally diminish as global commodities prices normalize. However, the author claims it to be “painted a picture so rosy he might have been mistaken for a florist rather than an economist.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “An organic state policy” emphasizes the new National Security Policy is a “leap forward”. According to the reports, PM Imran Khan will officially release the policy, which aims to “broaden horizons in socio-economic, environmental, diplomatic and domestic reforms- hence the new policy seems to be organic to the core.”

An editorial in The News International titled “Monal verdict” discusses the Islamabad High Court’s consecutive landmark verdict on encroached lands. With the closing of Islamabad’s Monal restaurant, the court has also shut down of Margalla Greens Golf Club as well.

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Curious case of harassment” in connection to alleged harassment of a girl by the accused Usman Mirza took a fatal U-turn; when the girl said she didn’t recognize the accused persons in the viral video on 11 January 2022. Though the reasons behind the statements are unknown, the legal experts have reiterated to take this case forward.

 

“The profligacy of the country’s ruling elite — politicians, civil and military bureaucracy, and the business community — has brought the country to a stage where we have to borrow more money to not only run the state but also to pay back the past debt.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Debt crisis risk”

 


Will have to approach IMF again if there is no rise in exports, says PM


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
ECONOMY
PM stresses on either boosting country’s economy or IMF syndrome
On 11 January while addressing the inaugural ceremony of 14th International Chambers Summit 2022 organized by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PM stressed on boosting exports and tax collection. PM stated his stand on mini-budget that it was necessary to document the economy and increasing tax coverage. (“Will have to approach IMF again if no rise in exports: PM Imran,” Dawn, 12 January 2022)

SBP governor liable for aligning with growth objectives of the country: Finance Minister
On January 11 the finance minister during a press conference with media stated that the SBP governor could be fired and that aspect is part of the SBP amendment bill being passed in the national assembly. He said the government would appoint eight members of SBP’s executive board while giving the SBP the autonomy for devising monetary and exchange rate policies. (“SBP head to be fired if doesn’t help govt achieve growth, says Tarin,” The News International, 12 January 2022)

PML-N registers note of dissent to National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue
On 11 January, PML-N MNA Ahsan Iqbal in his dissent note stated that leasing out sovereignty of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) was equivalent to loosing out the government’s monetary policy role. His tweet of the dissent note stated that “the central bank should enjoy reasonable autonomy to carry out its monetary policy role effectively but it should not be made a parallel empire within the state.” (Khaleeq Kiani, “PML-N submits note of dissent on SBP law,” Dawn, 12 January 2022)

Coalition partners to align with opposition to scrutinize mini-budget
On 11 January, the National Assembly began its general debate on Finance (Supplementary) Bill 2021. The coalition partner of PTI, MQM-P was active in supporting the demands of the opposition in seeking government rationale in increasing taxes and reducing subsidies. MQM legislator, Kishwar Zehra stated that “Public revenge is very horrible. If we are your allies and friends, then we will definitely advise you how to save yourself from it. This mini-budget is heavier than the previous budget (presented last year).” (Amir Wasim, “PTI allies join chorus of complaint against mini-budget,” Dawn, 12 January 2022)

Pakistan to grow at 3.4 per cent for FY 21-22, says World Bank
On January 11, the World Bank in its Global Economic Prospects report 2022 posited that the developing part of the world will take longer time to full output recovery of pre-pandemic trends. The forecasted growth is lower than the government projection of 4.8 per cent. (Shahbaz Rana, “World Bank forecasts 3.4% growth,” The Express Tribune, 12 January 2022)

INTERNAL
Zardari rules out possibility of PPP re-joining PDM
On 11 January, Asif Ali Zardari maintained that the PPP would not re-joining the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). Additionally, on the possibility of an in-house change,he said, “God willing, it will be better,” adding that the PTI government has been incompetent from day one and the time has proven it stating, “The government is incapable of doing anything for people.” Meanwhile, the PPP extended a formal invitation to the National Democratic Movement and Mohsin Dawar to participate in the PPP march to Islamabad on 27 February. (Asim Yasin, “PPP not to rejoin PDM: Zardari,” The News International, 12 January 2021)

TikTok third most downloaded app in Pakistan despite ban
On 12 January, The News International reported that data compiled by Mobile Insights Strategist Craig Chapple of SensorTower showed that the TikTok was downloaded 26.5 million times in Pakistan in 2021. This makes the app the third most downloaded app even though was blocked in the country for almost five months due to “immoral and indecent” content. (Wasif Shakil, “Despite months-long ban in 2021, TikTok ranked third most downloaded app in Pakistan,” The News International, 12 January 2021)

Blind dolphin rescued in Dadu canal
On 11 January, a team of the provincial wildlife department rescued another blind dolphin that had reportedly gone astray from the Indus River into the Dadu canal. This was the third of five blind dolphins that had gone astray from the Indus River. Previously, two of them were rescued from the Mirzapur section of the canal. (“Another blind dolphin rescued in Dadu canal,” Dawn, 12 January 2021)

Opposition in Senate blames government for ‘criminal negligence in handling Murree incident
On 11 January, the opposition in the Senate criticised the government for ‘criminal negligence in handling the events in Murree. They demanded the formation of a judicial or parliamentary commission to investigate those responsible for failure to prevent the tragedy. Senator Sherry Rehman said, “The shocking reality is that this incident was completely preventable had the government that was taking pride in enhanced tourism taken safety measures that are integral to every tourist destination in the world.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Opposition in Senate slams govt for ‘criminal negligence’ in handling Murree tragedy,” Dawn, 12 January 2021)

COAS Bajwa satisfied with operational preparedness of army’s formations
On January 11 during 246th Corps Commanders’ Conference at the General Headquarters, COAS reviewed security preparations with a focus on border management and internal security. The COAS emphasized on continuing with mission-oriented training on emerging threats and challenges. (“Security reviewed in commanders conference,” Dawn, 12 January 2022)

Grand jirga settles boundary dispute between Thor and Harban tribes of GB and KP
On 11 January, a grand jirga constituted by the district administrations of Kohistan and Diamer settled the boundary dispute between Thor and Harban tribes of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Wapda Chairman said, “It is a great occasion that the pre-partition issue has finally been settled. Various judicial commissions and high-powered committees couldn’t end this major dispute, which finally a grand national jirga assisted by Wapda and other departments concerned succeeded in getting resolved.” (“Boundary dispute between KP, GB tribes resolved,” Dawn, 12 January 2021)

EXTERNAL
FM Qureshi meets with President of Spain’s Congress of Deputies
On 11 January, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met President of Spain’s Congress of Deputies Meritxell Batet in Spain. During the meeting, he discussed issues including Pakistan’s progress on the FATF action plan and Afghanistan’s situation. Additionally, he stated that Spain is Pakistan’s important partner in the European Union, adding that Pakistan wished to strengthen cooperation in multiple spheres. (“FM Qureshi discusses FATF, Afghan situation with Spanish leadership,” The Express Tribune, 12 January 2021)

 
Pakistan on Twitter

“Historic dev & good news on Diamer Bhasha Dam. Grand Jirga of Diamer & Upper Kohistan elders have settled decade-old Thor & Harban tribes' dispute. This will allow smooth & timely completion of Dam as well as pave way for settlement of boundary dispute between GB & KP”
-Prime Minister Imran Khan

“Imran Khan has often claimed that a country borrows a lot only if its leaders are corrupt. In the last three years, he’s broken all previous records on borrowing ($40 billion). Now, his opponents are accusing he has surrendered the financial sovereignty of Pakistan to the IMF.”
-Hamid Mir, Journalist at Washington Post 

“The price of wheat in the open market has reached Rs. 2600 per quintal which has never happened before in the history of the country. The people are now getting a 15 kg bag of flour for more than Rs. 1150. The wheat crisis has been on the rise for the past several months but the government is fast asleep. Until 2013, flour was Rs 35 per kg”
-Senator Sherry Rehman, Parliamentary leader PPP

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Shameful blame game” expresses regret on how the entire Murree tragedy has turned into a political drama, witnessed in the National Assembly on Monday. The author argues “If everyone from the country’s chief executive to the opposition leader agrees that the tragedy was avoidable but for the lack of preparedness of the authorities concerned, it is hard to grasp the logic behind the rejection of the demand for a judicial inquiry.”

 An editorial in Dawn titled “Russia- West Talks” highlights the recent talks between Moscow and NATO about the situation in Ukraine. The author writes, “the West wants to expand further into what were once Soviet states and satellites, while Russia, which is the successor state of the USSR, wants the US and Western Europe to stay out of its near abroad” and this is the bone of contention.

 An editorial in Dawn titled “When in jail…” brings to the limelight, the discriminatory criminal justice system adopted for the “political elites” and the common man. Following the end of Shahrukh Jatoi’s long stay at a private hospital, he is now moved back to the prison. Though convicted of the murder of a university student, the system has done very little to treat him as a criminal, given his luxury stay at a private hospital for eight long months- with access to extra perks.

 An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Exit of TTP terrorist” has raised a number of questions after the death of Khalid Balti alias Khorasani, a notorious mastermind behind the 2014 terrorist attack. It's disputed whether he was murdered in a confrontation with the Afghan Taliban, who were also on the hunt for disaffected individuals, or if he was killed in the war-torn country's clashes.

 An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Suu Kyi’s conviction” highlights the recent incident, where “a Myanmar court has convicted democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi of three criminal charges, which will keep her behind bars for at least four years.”

 

“It (Shahrukh Jatoi’s luxurious stay) says much about the state of justice in a society where convicted felons, guilty of crimes as grave as murder, live in the lap of luxury while the poor run from pillar to post to get the courts to hear their cases.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “When in jail..”

 

 


“Civil-military relations are unprecedented these days,” says PM Khan


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
“Civil-military relations are unprecedented these days,” says PM Khan
On 10 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated that the PTI government’s relationship with the military was ‘exceptional’ claiming “civil-military relations are unprecedented these days.” Further, he stated that the opposition’s narrative regarding a rift between the government and the military was ‘dead and buried.’ (Syed Irfan Raza, “Opposition narrative of civil-military rift ‘dead and buried’: PM Imran,” Dawn, 11 January 2021)

Opposition demands judicial inquiry into Murree incident
On 10 January, the opposition demanded a judicial inquiry into the deaths caused by a snowstorm in Murree hills. Shehbaz Sharif said, “We will not agree on less than formation of a judicial commission to probe into the deaths of 23 tourists who were stranded in their vehicles during snowfall in Murree,” adding, “Prime Minister should quit if his government could not handle rush in Murree and avert the human disaster,” Similarly, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “I will also request you to use your good offices to form the judicial commission.” (Muhammad Anis, “NA echoes with blame game on Murree deaths; Shehbaz, Balawal ask PM to quit,” The News International, 11 January 2021)

Senior TTP leader killed in Afghanistan, says senior security official
On 11 January, Dawn reported that a senior security official confirmed that Khalid Balti alias Mohammad Khurasani, senior leader of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was killed in the Nangarhar province of Afghanistan. However, details of his killing are not clear. Khurasani who was the spokesperson for the group was involved in several attacks in Pakistan. Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Taliban government denied the killing saying, “I do not confirm these reports. They are not true. No such incident has taken place on this (Afghan) side.” (“Senior TTP leader Khurasani killed in Afghanistan's Nangarhar: sources,” Dawn, 11 January 2021)

PTI foreign funding report by scrutiny panel conceals documents and bank statement
On 10 January, it was noted in the scrutiny panel’s report that the report does not include eight volumes of the documents and bank statements requisitioned through the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The committee decision to hide the funding details of PTI is in violation with ECP order of treating the records of a party as a public document. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Scrutiny panel report conceals crucial PTI documents, bank account details,” Dawn, 11 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Five-member committee begins probe into Murree tragedy
On 10 January, a five-member committee set up by the Punjab government began its probe into the causes and lapses that led to the death of 22 tourists during a snowstorm in Murree hills. The committee is being led by the Additional Chief Secretary Home and assisted by provincial government secretaries, Additional Inspector General of Punjab Police. The committee has been commissioned with completing its report and determine responsibility within seven days. (“Committee on Murree tragedy starts probe,” Dawn, 11 January 2021)

ECONOMY
IMF reciprocates with renegotiating the loan program on government request of postponing the review meeting for EFF
On 10 January, the finance minister revealed that IMF could impose new conditions if the government couldn’t pass the Supplementary (Finance) Bill 2021 before the review meeting which has been postponed at the request of the government. In the Senate Standing Committee, Shaukat Tareen mentioned that government does not have much time and has to get the bills passed to satisfy IMF’s conditions. (Shahbaz Rana, “IMF seeks to renegotiate loan programme,” The Express Tribune, 11 January 2022)

Government aims to reduce power debt by USD 2.3 billion
On 10 January, National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Power secretary testified that due to recent adjustment in base tariff and readjustment in subsidy slabs given to power consumers. The current circular power debt (at the exchange rate of December 2020) stood at USD 13.2 billion. The committee was apprised that rates for illegal payments for various routine services in power companies had increased in recent years. (“Govt plans to bring circular debt down to Rs1.88tr by June,” Dawn, 11 January 2022) 

EXTERNAL
COAS meets with Saudi Arabia’s Military Adviser
On 10 January, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with Saudi Arabia’s Military Adviser to Minister of Defence Major General Talal Abdullah Al-Otaibi. During the meeting, he emphasised on the need for swiftly devising an institutional mechanism for channelling humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. Additionally, they also discussed matters related to to mutual interest, regional security situation and bilateral defence relations between the two countries. (“COAS for channelising aid to Afghanistan,” The News International, 11 January 2021)

FM Qureshi meets with Romanian Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca
On 10 January, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Romanian Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca in Islamabad. During the meeting, Qureshi discussed bilateral matters, the situation in Afghanistan and the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir. Further, he appreciated Romania’s support to Pakistan in obtaining the GSP-plus status and stated that Pakistan desired to establish broad-based and result-oriented relations with Romania. (“FM Qureshi discusses Afghan, Kashmir issues with Romanian PM,” Dawn, 11 January 2021)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“The private sector's Rs 1.138 billion credits of tech in 2021 is the highest in the last 10 years. This is a clear indication of the strong growth momentum in the economy with the growing confidence and investment of the private sector.”
-Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan 

“Govt bulldozed SBP Bill through Nat’l Assembly Fin Standing Comm but got 3 changes accepted. 1) Gov & Dep Gov to be Pakistani nationals only. 2) 2 yrs ban after job on work with any institution with whom negotiate or regulate. 3) Gov to appear before NA Fin Standing Comm when req”
-Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary General PML-N 

“In Senate Finance Committee today we voted out the imposition of tax on bread, naan, sheermal, roti. The Soviet Union collapsed after serial bread lines, among other things. Don’t punish the poor. People need to see some financial relief in their household budgets on basic items.”
-Sherry Rehman, Parliamentary leader PPP

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “New LNG terminal” highlights PTI’s hurried decision to initiate a new LNG terminal, regardless of two terminals already being on ground. The recent gas shortages in the country have already affected PTI’s fate in the Local body elections and such a hurried move by the ministry of energy can only be conceived to protect its image in the eyes of the public. The writer claims, “that it (energy ministry) wasn’t able to bring in enough LNG to fully utilize the capacity of the existing two terminals speaks volumes about lack of planning.” 

An editorial in Dawn titled “Trust deficit” explains the consequences of citizens losing trust in its state and institutions. A recent incident in Karachi, where Rangers raided a lawyer’s residence and his son was arrested on drug possession charges. Due to lack of faith, this episode became a topic of contention between the state agency, the courts, and the legal community

An editorial in Dawn Titled “Textbook’s embezzlement” unfolds an incident from South Punjab, where a member of the Basic Education Community Schools was found selling the course books for grades from one to three at a scrap shop this academic year. The author says, “Be it the existence of ghost schools, hiring of teachers, utilization of funds and resources, plagiarism in Ph.D. papers or cheating in exams — all these problems point towards administrative, financial and ethical malfeasance by education officials.” 

An editorial in the Express Tribune titled “Urea procurement” calls for a “broad policy parameter to stock food grains.” With Pakistan's huge surplus and growing area under cultivation, a urea shortage is looming. However, the government’s decision to import high amounts of urea from China is well accepted by the people. 

An opinion in The News International titled “A clown show” represents Murree's tragedy which was “the result of simultaneous failures at many levels of government.” The author has criticized the PTI government on the grounds of the party promising big, then failing to achieve, and finally blaming others for being responsible for the incident.  

An editorial in The News International titled “Crypto-fraud” suggests, because the Pakistani digital world has become a haven for all kinds of crooks and fraudsters, something the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) should investigate right now if only to build a framework to govern such internet sites and avoid prospective scams.”

 

“Corruption does not always involve the exchange of undue favors or funds: negligence and apathy by the authorities is also one of its manifestations. Effective governance and utilization of resources are key to a robust education system in any country.”

-An editorial in Dawn on “Textbooks embezzlements”

 

 

 


Over 500 families rescued in Murree


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Over 500 families rescued in Murree
On 9 January, the Punjab police stated that over 500 families were rescued and taken to safety in the last 24 hours in Murree. This come after 23 tourists had died after being stranded in their vehicles during a snowstorm. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar formed a five-member committee to investigate the causes and lapses that led to the death of the tourists. Further, he stated that Murree would be given the status of a district and senior officers would be posted there to such incident do not happen again. (“Over 500 families rescued in Murree as road cleared,” The Express Tribune, 10 January 2021) (Aamir Yasin, “Body set up to probe Murree deaths after outcry,” Dawn, 10 January 2021)

SAPM urges nation to stand against extremism
On 9 January, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Interfaith Harmony Allama Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi on Sunday called on the nation to stand against extremism and said that the government believes in resolving issues through dialogue. (“Pakistani nation must stand against extremism: SAPM,” The Express Tribune, 10 January 2021)

Young Pakistanis have appetite for leading IT revolution in Pakistan, says President Alvi
On 9 January, President Dr Arif Alvi while attending a webinar stated that Pakistan is changing and is at the jumping board of digital transformation. He added that mega revolutions were taking place in four key areas: first in computing, processing of data and analysis of the artificial intelligence; second, in the energy sector and these were linked with biology; and finally in the 3D manufacturing, including virtual reality, blockchain, internet data, mobile computing, internet and social networking. (Syed Irfan Raza, “President Alvi urges youths to take benefits of IT-related world market,” Dawn, 10 January 2022)

PTI foreign funding not a threat to its existence
On 9 January, the ECP scrutiny panel’s report cited the various judgment of the past including relevant judgements of the Supreme Court in the Hanif Abbasi and Benazir Bhutto cases, which distinguishes foreign funding and funds received from prohibited sources. If the case against PTI is proved, at max ECP will confiscate the additional funding which has crossed the ceiling of money a party can garner from foreign sources. (“Forfeiture of funds only threat staring PTI in the face,” Dawn, 10 January 2022)

PPP to organize tractor rally against urea shortage in the country
On 9 January, PPP chairman sought consultations from provincial offices of the party for holding the rallies at the Bilawal House. The PPP will stage ‘tractor rallies’ from January 21 across Pakistan. The meeting demanded a new local government system for Punjab, like the one being introduced in Sindh for “empowering the public representatives”. (“PPP plans tractor rallies across Pakistan to protest urea shortage,” Dawn, 10 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Attack on tribal elder’s convoy leaves three dead
On 10 January, Dawn reported that three people were killed and five others were injured in an attack in Sibi on 8 January after armed men opened fire on Nawabzada Baro Khan Barozai’s convoy. According to the police, the cause of the firing could be an old feud. (Ali Jan Mangi, “Three killed in attack on tribal elder’s convoy,” Dawn, 10 January 2021)

Balochistan: IS terrorists shot dead by CTD in Quetta
On 10 January, Dawn reported that the counterterrorism department (CTD) got a tip-off about the suspected movement of IS terrorists in the eastern bypass area of Quetta on 8 January. Things recovered by the CTD included an improvised explosive device, three submachine guns with 200 rounds, two 9mm pistols with 47 rounds, a hand grenade and two motorcycles. (Saleem Shahid, “Six Islamic State men killed in Quetta: CTD,” Dawn, 10 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Mini budget among others to be debated and passed in National Assembly
On 10 January, the government will introduce the Finance (Supplementary) Bill also called mini-budget, a money bill that is aimed to net additional revenues to the GDP, there is withdrawal of sales tax exemptions. Along with the finance bill, the SBP Amendment Bill has been sent to the house committee concerned for a report. (Kashif Abbasi, “Mini-budget on agenda as National Assembly session begins today,” Dawn, 10 January 2022)

IMF postpones the review meeting for EFF for Pakistan
On 9 January, IMF’s Resident Chief in Pakistan, Esther Perez Ruiz said, "The Board meeting for consideration and eventual approval of the 6th Review under the EFF is being postponed at the request of the authorities. The new date is yet to be determined."As the two critical bills are to be discussed in National Assembly, the government needs the approval of both houses for passage of SBP Amendment bill and Finance (Supplementary) Bill may pass easily but the SBP bill would expect stiff opposition in the NA. (Mehtab Haider, “Sixth Review postponed after Pak request: IMF,” The News International, 10 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
“We want the US, Europe and Russia and other countries to come and invest in Pakistan,” says NSA
On 9 January, National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf stated that Pakistan was not part of any camps saying, “We want the US, Europe and Russia and other countries to come and invest in Pakistan,” adding that the country had no better friend than China. Further, he stated that Pakistan was a nuclear country without which “there will be no compromise on national security and the present government has always made decisions keeping in view the national interest.” Additionally, he claimed that the purpose of building national security was economic development, protection of common man and defence of borders, adding, “The civil and military leadership [of the country] are on the same page on this issue.” (“We’re not part of camp politics: NSA ,” The Express Tribune, 10 January 2021)

Pakistan sees TTP as a “test case” for Taliban government, says official
On 9 January, an official while speaking to The Express Tribune stated, “We are telling the Taliban leadership to consider the TTP as a test case,” adding, “If the Taliban can't address concerns of Pakistan then who would trust them and their promise of cutting ties to al Qaeda and other such groups.” Further, the official said, “It will be damaging for the Afghan Taliban if they fail to take into account Pakistan's concerns,” adding, “A global community, particularly the West will ask look they can't even satisfy Pakistan so how come they would address terror concerns of other countries.” (Kamran Yousaf “Pakistan asks Afghan Taliban to take TTP ‘as test case’,” The Express Tribune, 9 January 2021)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Afghanistan’s future depends on Pakistan ties, western aid, says USIP reports
On 10 January, Dawn reported that two reports published by the US Institute of Peace (USIP) stated that humanitarian aid alone cannot prevent an economic collapse in Afghanistan. Further, the reports stated “a positive relationship with Pakistan could go a long way in fostering stability and development,” however, what that the “opposite is a much likelier outcome, given the deeply held grievances on both sides.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Afghanistan’s future hinges on Pakistan ties, western aid: reports,” Dawn, 10 January 2021)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"Farmers are scrambling to find urea fertilizer and are forced to buy at exorbitant prices on the black market. Despite government claims, the crisis has persisted for several weeks. Lack of urea will affect our agriculture and farmers' income. Promises from this government are not fulfilled, but there are claims that they do not end."
- Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly

"Three days ago, the Meteorological Department had forecast heavy snowfall not only in Murree, Galya, and Kagan, etc. but also warned the citizens to be cautious due to fear of closure of link roads in these districts, but the provincial or federal government warned the citizens not to stop the tourists. Take precautionary measures."
- Saleem Safi, Journalist

'The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him."
- Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary Gen of PML-N

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled "Cryptocurrency scam" discusses the interests of Pakistan in investing in Cryptocurrency. Binance, currently the most prominent global crypto exchange app, is alleged to have been responsible for scamming Pakistani investors. However, the author writes, "the absence of an umbrella federal legal framework under which they can develop crypto regulation" is the cause of concern. Due to lack of legislation or policies, tracking the illegal money entering and exiting the country might be a disaster for Pakistan is meeting its requirements of the FATF. 

An editorial in Dawn titled "IHC verdict" is a milestone judgment against "illegal land grabbling by both powerful mafias as well government organizations." Although it is located in a protected national park area, the navy's construction of the club near Rawal Lake is an example of brazen abuse of authority that various municipal agencies have questioned. Nevertheless, "the Islamabad High Court has done a commendable job of enforcing the law against individuals who have previously thought themselves above it."

An editorial in The News International highlights the Local government issues, which are persistent across all the provinces in Pakistan. The writer considers the recent draft law proposed by PTI on Punjab Local Government Act. However, the bone of contention is that PTI has advised two-tier councils for urban areas, whereas the "opposition is demanding at least four-tier system. Finally, the author says, "The opposition must come up with its suggestions in writing so that they graduate from a culture of conversation to a culture of composition. The governing party must consider alternative proposals before passing any laws in this regard."

An editorial in the Express Tribune titled "Pakistan, GCC horizon" emphasizes the potential boons and bane of the Joint Action Plan for Strategic Dialogue (2022-26). The author says, "while the foundations of this first formalized valve of inter-active métier lay in a common faith, economic interdependence, and political compatibility, as well as a relevant geo-strategic goal, it is believed that it will go a long way toward ushering stability and prosperity in the region."

An editorial in Dawn on "Taliban's choices" stresses how Afghanistan has become a haven of religious extremist organizations due to decades of anarchy, foreign involvement, and internal warfare. But today, the Afghan Taliban is striving to be internationally recognized; however, "it's confronted with a plain truth." The author questions, "if they (Taliban) are willing to take firm action against foreign terrorist groups in Afghanistan working actively against neighboring states?

 

 

These illegal practices (of land grabbing) are so deeply entrenched within our system and are so well protected by powerful elements within the state that very few have dared challenge them. It is, therefore, heartening to see the courts upholding the majesty of the law over those who need to respect it the most.

- An editorial in Dawn on "IHC verdict."

 


NSA briefs Senate Defence Committee on the National Security Policy


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
NSA briefs Senate Defence Committee on the National Security Policy
On 7 January, National Security Adviser Dr Moeed Yusuf briefed the Senate Defence Committee on the National Security Policy. According to a press release issued by the Senate Secretariat, “Over the last seven years, an inter-governmental consultation process was undertaken with federal ministries, provincial governments and all other stakeholders. Consultations were also held with academics, university students, independent policy experts and other members of civil society.” During the briefing, NSA Moeed said, “It also examines opportunities and challenges in a fluid global environment and prioritises policy actions for implementation. Impor­tantly, it contains an annual review when a new government comes into place to ensure policy continuity and build flexibility on national security issues.”  (Kashif Abbasi, “Senate panel holds in-camera session on security policy briefing,” Dawn, 8 January 2022)

Minister informs Senate about process for first-ever digital census
On 7 January, the Senate was informed that the process for the first-ever digital census has begun. In this regard, field operations will be carried out from 1-31 August which would be preceded by a pilot census to be conducted from 15 May to 15 June 15. Further, Minister of State for Parlia­mentary Affairs Ali Mohammad Khan said Rs16.884 billion had been spent on the national census in 2017. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Process for first-ever digital census has begun, Senate told,” Dawn, 8 January 2022)

Four Pakistanis journalist among 55 killed last year, says UN Report
On 8 January, Dawn reported that according to data collected by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Orga­nisation (Unesco), 55 journalists and media professionals were killed in 2021, of which four were Pakistanis. The data showed that in Pakistan, 85 journalists have been killed since 1993, including four killed in 2021. (Anwar Iqbal, “55 journalists, four Pakistanis among them, killed last year,” Dawn, 8 January 2022)

The present government’s three years are an economic success story, says PM Khan
On 7 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan while chairing a meeting of the Macroeconomic Advisory Group stated that despite the worst balance of payments crisis in 2018, economic problems due to Covid-19, high commodity prices in the international market and direct and indirect impact of a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, “Pakistan is expected to achieve over 4% economic growth – which is a major success.” He added, “Since we inherited a huge circular debt, anti-exports policies, unstable financial conditions, less-competitive business environment and policies of lower incentives for private sector, the present government’s three years are an economic success story.” (“Govt’s three years are an economic success story: PM,” The Express Tribune, 8 January 2022)

IHC differs former G-B judge’s indictment
On 7 January, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) deferred indictment in the contempt of court case against former chief judge of Gilgit-Baltistan Rana Shamim and other accused until 20 January. This came after the court was hearing about an affidavit that was published in the newspaper that accused former chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar of influencing a case against ex-PM Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz. (“Former G-B judge’s indictment deferred,” The Express Tribune, 8 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: PM seeks report from CM on rain damage
On 7 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan asked the Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo for a report on the damage caused by recent rains. Additionally, he also directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to provide immediate relief to those affected in Gwadar and Turbat and directed the authorities concerned to provide assistance to those affected due to rains in Balochistan. (Amir Wasim, “PM Imran seeks report on rain damage in Balochistan,” Dawn, 8 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Over USD three billion received through the Roshan Digital Accounts till the end of December 2021
On 7 January, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reported that Pakistan has received over USD 3.160 billion through the Roshan Digital Accounts (RDA) till the end of December 2021. However, it reported that the Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs) attracted the major inflows which amounted to USD 2.149 billion. (“$3.16bn received through Roshan Digital Accounts till Dec 2021,” Dawn, 8 January 2022

Inflation increases as a result of high food prices
On 7 January, data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed that inflation measured through the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) posted an increase of 0.08 per cent for the week ended on 6 January due to the sharp increase in the prices of essential food and non-food items. (“Sharp increase in food prices pushes inflation up,” Dawn, 8 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“Where do you pin the responsibility of these deaths? Where was the government all the while? What arrangements did it make to deal with such an influx? Incompetence is fast turning into criminality. Prior arrangements & round the clock supervision were the normal SOPs in the past”
-Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly
 
“International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) resolves safety concerns of Pakistan Civil Aviation. The historic achievement of the country’s aviation regulator. Fed. Min Ghulam S Khan and DG PCAA Khaqan Murtaza declared this a historic milestone for Pakistan and lauded efforts of entire regulatory term behind this success.”
-Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority

Profits of listed businesses grew 59% year on year for the first 9 months, despite Covid challenges. This shows our economy is witnessing strong growth & creating jobs. I am hopeful that businesses & employers will share these gains with their workforces
-Prime Minister Imran Khan

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Debating Seniority” underlines the friction caused by the recent nomination of Justice Ayesha A. Malik to the Supreme Court. On the one hand, she has been hailed for the groundbreaking verdict on abolishing the two-finger ‘virginity’ test and others. However, in contrast, Justice Malik’s nomination is understood as an “out-of-turn promotion” by the judicial community.

An editorial in Dawn titled “Aviation relief” highlights that after a year of extensive examination and audit, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has cleared the Civil Aviation Authority of key safety concerns, which is good news for the country's ailing aviation industry. Year-long scrutiny was “in the wake of the tragic Karachi plane crash in May 2020 and subsequent statements from the aviation minister that over 30pc of Pakistani pilots had dubious flying licenses,” says the writer.

An editorial in the Express Tribune titled “Door-to-door vaccination” applauds the recent efforts taken by provincial governments to fight against the virus. In light of increasing cases of the Omicron strain of the disease in Sindh, the provincial administration has decided to undertake a door-to-door vaccination campaign for coronavirus protection. The decision was made in part because the immunization rate among women was judged to be inadequate.

An editorial in The News International titled “Uncertainties galore” voices out the continuous uncertainties faced by Pakistan. The author identifies the country is currently plagued by four significant uncertainties; on FATF, controversial mini-budget, political climate- including PDM’s long march, PTI’s foreign funding and finally, inconsistent economic policies.

An editorial in Dawn titled “Unvaccinated Djokovic” emphasizes Novak Djokovic's fate at the Australian Open, which is expected to be decided by a COURT hearing against the Australian government on Monday. The author writes, “Djokovic should set an example for others to follow but his views on vaccination are providing anti-vaxxers with the ammunition they need.”

 

It is only by establishing in clear terms what qualifies a judge for a higher position, and how one judge is more qualified than the other, that controversies will disappear and nominations such as Justice Malik’s can be celebrated without reservations.
- An editorial in Dawn on “Debating Seniority”

 


JCP approves Justice Ayesha Malik’s nomination to Supreme Court


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
PPP announces long march in February
On  6 January, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced that PPP would start its long march on Islamabad against the PTI government on 27 February. He said, “The deteriorating economic conditions have worried people, who are fed up of the incompetent and inept rulers and want to get rid of them at the earliest. Therefore, we have decided to launch a long march against the government from Feb 27. It will start from Mazar-i-Quaid (mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi).” (Amjad Mahmood, “PPP’s long march begins on Feb 27: Bilawal,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

JCP approves Justice Ayesha Malik’s nomination to Supreme Court
On 6 January, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) approved the nomination of Lahore High Court Justice Ayesha A. Malik, the first woman judge to enter the Supreme Court. Her nomination was secured by a majority of five to four, with Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Maqbool Baqar, Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) representative Akhtar Hussain opposing the selection. (Nasir Iqbal, “‘Divided’ JCP okays Justice Ayesha Malik’s nomination to Supreme Court,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

November is far away, decision about extension of COAS tenure can wait, says PM Khan
On 6 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan claimed that he has not thought about extension in the tenure of Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, saying, “The current year has just started and November is far away. Then why there is worry about extension in the tenure of the army chief.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Decision on extension for COAS can wait, says PM Imran,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

Biggest failure of his government was the lack of accountability, says PM Khan
On 6 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan states that the biggest failure of his government was on the accountability front, stating that despite all the evidence, “these people [corrupt] are escaping.” Further, he went on to state that his government would complete the tenure, saying, “We will complete the five years along with our allies,” terming the next three months as “important for his government.” (“PM Imran admits failure in accountability,” The Express Tribune, 7 January 2022)

IHC resumes hearing of court case against ex-GB judge and others
On 7 January, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) resumed the hearing of a contempt of court case against former Gilgit-Baltistan chief justice Rana Shamim, Jang Group owner Mir Shakeelur Rehman and senior journalists Ansar Abbasi and Aamir Ghauri. The hearing comes in connection to an affidavit that accused former chief justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar of trying to delay the release from prison of top PML-N leadership. (Tahir Naseer, “Rana Shamim affidavit: IHC resumes hearing contempt of court case against ex-GB judge, others,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

PM Khan discuss the proposed role of NRA with Maulana Tariq Jameel
On 6 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan met with Maulana Tariq Jameel to discussed the proposed role of the National Rehmatulil Alameen Authority (NRA). During the meeting, they discussed the NRA for the character-building of the youth in light of the teachings of the Seeratun Nabvi as PM Khan reiterated that “we, as a nation, can only progress by following the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH).” (“PM Imran meets Maulana Tariq Jameel, discusses NRA's role,” The Express Tribune, 7 January 2022)

ECONOMY
Government schedules National Assembly session for approval of ‘mini-budget’ for 10 January
On 6 January, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan while speaking to Dawn said that the government has planned to convene the National Assembly session for holding a debate on the finance supplementary bill for 10 January. He stated that the recommendations of the Senate on the Finance (Supplementary) Bill 2021 will be discussed during the session. ("Govt to convene NA session on mini-budget on Jan 10," The Express Tribune, 6 January 2022)

Meanwhile, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance during a meeting to finalize and make recommendations in the Finance (Supplementary) Bill, 2021 extended support on the imposition of 17 percent general sales tax on goods imported by the diplomats and diplomatic missions, however, rejecting the withdrawal of sales tax exemption on baby formula milk, donations and contraceptives under the supplementary finance bill 2021. (“Senate panel rejects some finance bill proposals,” The News International, 7 January 2022)

Comprehensive plan underway to control inflation, says Information and Broadcasting Minister
On 6 January, Federal Information and Broadcasting Minister Chaudhry Fawad Hussain stated that there would be a comprehensive plan to control inflation in the country. He added that Pakistan’s economic indicators, including growth rate, are on an upward trajectory despite the pandemic. (“Plan under way to check inflation, says information minister,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has urged for a national dialogue to revive the country’s economy. He claimed that half of the country’s budget is spent on interest, adding, “Inflation and poverty has taken hold from house to house.” (“JI chief calls for national dialogue to revive economy,” The Express Tribune, 7 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan to host meeting in March
On 6 January, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi stated that the meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will be held on 22 March in Islamabad. He said, “We will celebrate our 75th Pakistan Day with our brothers and the OIC Foreign Ministers Council will attend the March 23 parade as guest.” (“Pakistan to host next OIC meeting on March 22: Qureshi,” The News International, 7 January 2022)

ON FATF
Prime Minister’s Adviser on Interior and Accountability ask FIA to play an effective role ahead of FATF meeting
On 6 January, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Interior and Accountability Shehzad Akbar urged the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to play an effective role in achieving the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) targets ahead of the meeting in March or April. An official while speaking to Dawn said, “Mr Akbar emphasised achieving the FATF targets for the upcoming APG/ plenary review in March/April, 2022. The FIA was also directed to aggressively pursue mega money laundering cases.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “Shehzad Akbar asks FIA to gird up its loins ahead of FATF meeting,” Dawn, 7 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"Intruding into private life and tapping the phone is the essence of vulgarity and then publicity is the culmination of vulgarity. It is reprehensible and arrogant not to apologize to Maryam Nawaz for using inappropriate words when the conversation is public."
-Saleem Safi, Journalist
 
"Another major step forward for women in Pak - 1st woman judge in SC, a long-overdue appt. Congratulations to Justice Ayesha Malik who has an exemplary record as a judge of LHC. Let this be a first step for women judges being elevated to SC & there are some outstanding women judges"
-Shireen Mazari, Minister for Human Rights
 
"The gas crisis has been raging in the country since the onset of winter. Citizens have been suffering for months due to gas cuts and low pressure. The gas shortfall in the commercial center Karachi is 257 MMCF. In severe cold and rain, people do not even have gas for cooking."
-Sherry Rehman, Former Member of the National Assembly

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Border with Afghanistan” highlights recent border fencing issues. Pakistan’s efforts to fence a 2,600 km long fence is aimed to curb both terrorism and cross-border smuggling. The author suggests that it is “important that border management is done effectively and with mutual understanding of the two countries. With the Taliban now controlling Afghanistan, it is reasonable to expect that they will not actively and deliberately try to undermine Pakistan’s interests, and would resolve misunderstandings through reasoned engagement.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Taxing renewable energy”, in light of the new finance supplementary bill 2021, proposes a 17 percent sales tax on solar energy equipment, which goes against the prime minister's intention of boosting the number of renewables in the overall energy mix to safeguard the environment and reduce dependency on highly-priced imported fossil fuels. The author writes, “There are other avenues, both undertaxed and untaxed, from which the government can generate a lot more than what it seeks to rake in from taxing green equipment.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune voices protests happening across Kazakhstan against rising petrol costs in the oil-rich country, which has swiftly devolved into a broader public outcry against corruption, autocratic rule, and former President Nursultan Nazarbayev. Kazakhstan's government has been forced to step down as a result of mass demonstrations, and troops from Russia and other former Soviet nations will be mobilized to help "stabilize" the country.

An editorial in The News International titled “Audio leaks” expresses solidarity with journalists, who have been “facing derogatory remarks by any powerful group.” The author says, “A healthy political environment calls for freedom of expression at all levels, and more than any other entity, political parties themselves benefit from such free expression.” Additionally, the author condemns the recent incident on intruding into the private spheres of individuals and as well as the intolerance of dissent by the powerful groups.”

In an editorial in Dawn titled “Importing Urea” the author believes that “the government’s decision to import urea from China should help curb market volatility at a time when wheat farmers are facing shortages and a spike in retail prices despite record urea sales”. Through this opportunity, the government of Pakistan might have a chance to restructure the urea industry.

 

“One hopes political parties understand that they can’t force or threaten real journalists into agreeing with them and that any attempt to do so will only be a further attack on democracy.”
-An editorial in The News International on “Audio leaks”

 


Opposition asks ECP and SC to move against PTI over foreign funding


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Opposition asks ECP and SC to move against PTI over foreign funding
On 5 January, the PML-N and PPP urged the urged the Supreme Court (SC) and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to proceed against the PTI over the ECP’s foreign funding report which they termed as a “damning indictment” of Prime Minister Imran Khan. While the PML-N believes the SC should take a suo motu action against the prime minister, the PPP is of the opinion that is primarily the responsibility of the ECP to ban the ruling party. (“Apex court, ECP urged to move against PTI over foreign funding,” Dawn, 6 January 2021)

No deal with Nawaz Sharif, and armed forces are subservient institution to the government, says DG ISPR
On 5 January,  Director General ISPR Major General Babar Iftikhar rejected the speculation over a deal between the military leadership Nawaz Sharif saying, "I will say these are baseless speculations. Ask this question from those who talk about such things," adding, "In my understanding, there is baseless speculation and I am very clear about that." Further, on the staus of the civil-military relations, he said, "I have said it time and again that armed forces are subservient institution to the Pakistan government and act as its directives and there is no more than this." (“No truth in reports of deal with Nawaz: DG ISPR,” Dawn, 5 January 2022)

PFUJ President asks for apology from PML-N leaders for abusing journalists
On 6 January, Dawn reported that Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi in a joint statement expressed serious concern over a leaked audio clip of allegedly two senior PML-N leaders in which they are using abusive language against senior journalists and anchorpersons. The PFUJ officials stated that the leaked audio was alarming as it showed the mindset of political leadership against media and independent journalists. (“PFUJ demands apology from PML-N leaders for abusing journalists,” Dawn, 6 January 2021)

Journalist body in Pakistan concerned over framing of charges against journalists
On 5 January, The Committee to Protect Journalists expressed grave concern over the Islamabad High Court (IHC)’s decision to indict Pakistani journalists Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman, Aamir Ghauri, and Ansar Abbasi, calling it a dangerous attack on press freedom and freedom of expression. “The Islamabad High Court’s decision to indict journalists Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman, Aamir Ghauri, and Ansar Abbasi is a disturbing act of retaliation for reporting a matter of public interest,” said Steven Butler, CPJ’s Asia programme coordinator. (“Framing charges against journalists: Order ‘a disturbing act of retaliation’: CPJ,” The News International, 6 January 2022)

Pakistan and Brazil delegation meets over to exchange learning about EVMs
On 4 January, a delegation of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) met Ambassador of Brazil to Pakistan Olyntho Vieira to learn about the Brazilian experience of using electronic voting machines (EVMs) and on internet voting. Brazil and Pakistan share electoral and demographic similarities. (“ECP delegation meets Brazilian envoy to learn about use of EVMs,” Dawn, 6 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: CM Bizenjo declare Gwadar and Kech districts calamity-hit areas
On 6 January, Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo stated that the provincial government has decided to declare Gwadar and Kech districts as calamity-hit areas. Further, he issued directives for the chief secretary to take steps concerning the matter. Additionally, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said that huge losses had occurred in Gwadar and Kech districts due to heavy rains along the Makran Coast. (“Gwadar, Kech to be declared calamity hit: CM Bizenjo,” Dawn, 6 January 2021)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two security personnel killed during intelligence-based operations 
On January 5, DG ISPR issued a statement that security forces conducted IBO simultaneously in Tank, Dera Ismail Khan and Kot Kili village in South Waziristan during which two terrorists and two security personnel were killed. (“Two security men martyred,” Dawn, 6 January 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan and GCC finalise the Joint Action Plan for Strategic Dialogue
On 5 January, during a delegation-level meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Dr Nayef Falah M. Al-Hajraf, the two sides finalised the Joint Action Plan for Strategic Dialogue (2022-26). The plan provides for an institutional approach to deepen cooperation in various fields, including political, security, trade and investment, agricultural and food security, transportation, energy, environment, health, culture and education. (“Pakistan, GCC finalise action plan for strategic dialogue,” Dawn, 6 January 2021)

PM Khan to visit China in February
On 5 January, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Khalid Mansoor stated that Prime Minister Imran Khan has ordered the removal of any hindrance to Chinese investment in Pakistan, as he prepares to visit Beijing in February. Further, Mansoor stated that PM Khan has ordered the removal of 37 regulations to ensure one-window operation for foreign investors. (“PM to visit China early next month,” The Express Tribune, 6 January 2021)

DURAND LINE
Fencing to continue as planned as blood of martyred soldiers was involved in erecting the fence, says DG ISPR
On 5 January, Director General ISPR Major General Babar Iftikhar on the fencing of the Pak-Afghan border said, "We are totally focused, and under the western border management regime, the work that is underway will be completed in some time," adding, "The blood of our martyrs was spilled in erecting this fence. It is a fence of peace. It will be completed and will remain [in place]."(“Martyrs' blood went into Pak-Afghan border fencing, will continue as planned: DG ISPR,” Dawn, 5 January 2022)

 

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"The ECC has approved the import of 1.5 million tonnes of fertilizer from China. The first shipment of 50,000 tons of fertilizer will arrive on February 10. From January, 600,000 tons of local fertilizer will also start coming in the market. Despite the high prices in the world market, our farmers will not face a shortage of fertilizers"
-Fawad Chaudhry, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting

“The first Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul (ITI) freight train has arrived at Ankara. The train started its journey from Islamabad on 21 December 2021 and covered 6000 km in 13 days to reach Ankara. Currently, the train is on its way to Istanbul.”
-Azam Khan Swati, Federal Minister for Railways

“Adoption of Western econ theory & practice will not help us in achieving our goal of creating a happy & contented people. We must work our destiny in our own way & present to the world an econ system based on the true Islamic concept of equality of manhood & social justice” (QAzam@SBP)
-Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary General of PML-N

Also read...

An editorial in Dawn titled “Report on PTI funds”, highlights the recent report released by the Election Commission of Pakistan on PTI’s fundings. Both PM Imran Khan and his party, who has been a constant advocate of anti-corruption have now landed in trouble. The writer says, “Though there is no explicit allegation of wrongdoing in the report, the party’s resistance during the entire case raises questions.” Moreover, PTI’s “concealed accounts and the actions of resisting accountability contradict their principles.

An editorial in Dawn emphasizes the frequent audio disclosures that reveal that the unlawful practice of tapping continues and that states have lost control over agencies that continue to monitor even those in power. The author writes, “The act of phone-tapping is illegal to the extent that it infringes upon individuals’ rights to privacy, free expression, liberty, and life. This is not acceptable in a democracy.”

An editorial in The News International on “Cyber Challenge” brings forth the challenges Pakistan is facing in terms of the rising cyber-crimes. A sudden increase in these complaints is related to issues of “protecting women’s modesty, child pornography, and cyber fraud writes the author. However, in order to curb these crimes, the author suggests that the involvement of academia and civil society can be crucial as well. Nevertheless, in the process, the author suggests that cybercrimes “must never be used to restrict legitimate legal rights of citizens to information, speech, and dissent. It would be unfortunate if something as serious as combating cybercrime were used to further restrict space for political dissent.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune written by Amma Ejaz Rafi on “Pakistan & Bangladesh: Strategic consonance” calls for closer cooperation among the countries to tackle “poverty and transnational challenges.” The author believes that if they “tune their economies in line with regional connectivity, then they can reap benefits”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on the fencing of the Pak- Afg border states that even if the fence has ‘seemingly’ lost its significance and purpose in an emerging and altered geo-strategic construct, Pakistan must stay the course cordially with Afghanistan.

 

Preserving historic buildings in cities is necessary because this strengthens the element of continuity, community, and character.
It’s an irony that officials who are tasked with protecting historic buildings themselves aid in the destruction of history”

-An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Historic buildings”

 

 


PTI under-reported Rs312m funds between 2009 and 2013, says ECP Report


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
PTI under-reported Rs312m funds between 2009 and 2013, says ECP Report
On 5 January, Dawn reported that in a report the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in a report confirmed that PTI received funding from foreign nationals and companies, under-reported funds and concealed dozens of its bank accounts. According to the report, the party under-reported an amount of Rs312 million over a four-year period, between FY2009-10 and FY2012-13.

Welcoming the report, Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “The more our accounts are scrutinised, the more factual clarity will emerge for the nation to see how PTI is the only political party with proper donor base premised on proper political fundraising,” adding, “I look forward to seeing similar ECP scrutiny on funding of 2 other major pol parties - PPP & PMLN. This will allow nation to see difference between proper pol fundraising & extortion of money from crony capitalists & vested interests in exchange for favours at nation's expense.”

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry termed the report “inaccurate” claiming that certain transactions were counted twice. Further, he called for a public scrutiny of ‘identical’ cases against itself, PPP and PML-N so that the public knows where they all stood. (“PTI tried to keep lid on foreign accounts, reveals ECP,” Dawn, 5 January 2021) (“PM Imran welcomes ECP scrutiny of PTI's funding, says will lead to more 'factual clarity' for the nation,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

Meanwhile, PML-N Secretary Information Marriyum Aurangzeb demanded the immediate resignation of PM Imran Khan over the ECP’s foreign funding case report stating that he has no legal or moral grounds left to continue as the prime minister after being proven a thief by the report. (“Foreign funding case report proves PM a thief: Marriyum,” The News International, 5 January 2021)

Justice Isa asks CJP to determine criteria for nomination to judges to SC; Seniority not legal requirement, nor convention, says Women in Law Pakistan
On 4 January, Justice Qazi Faez Isa in a two-page letter advised the Chief Justice of Pakistan (JCP) to first determine the criteria for nomination of judges for appointment to the Supreme Court and then consider elevation of Justice Ayesha A. Malik of the Lahore High Court (LHC). He said, “Once the nomination and selection criteria are determined, it will help dispel misgivings that arbitrariness in the selection process holds sway.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Justice Qazi Faez Isa asks CJP to determine criteria for nomination to SC,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

Meanwhile, the Women in Law Pakistan initiative has issued a statement on the issue stating that the idea that seniority is a legal requirement is a myth and “there is no requirement in law and Constitution to appoint the senior most judge to the Supreme Court.” Further, the initiative said that “at least 41 times judges have been appointed to the Supreme Court without them being most senior. There is, therefore, no such custom either. ‘Seniority’, is at best a mere demand of some members of the Bars at the moment and has no legal basis.” (“Justice Ayesha's SC appointment: Seniority not legal requirement, nor convention, says Women in Law Pakistan,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

PML-N and Government at odds after another leaked audio clipping
On 4 January, in another audio clip allegedly of PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz talking to former senator Pervaiz Rashid  about journalists’ bias towards their party has drawn criticism regarding the conduct of political parties towards media organisations. Following the leak, ,” PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said, “The real crime is secretly tapping telephone calls and private conversations in violation of the constitutional right to privacy and then leaking them without consent of the people involved,” adding, “The matter must be investigated and the culprits found guilty of intrusion of privacy given exemplary punishment in accordance with the law.” Meanwhile, leader of the Senate, Dr Shahzad Waseem said, “The PML-N is known for running media campaigns against its opponents and what it had done to the late Benazir Bhutto was known to everyone,” addig, The PML-N has a vast experience of blackmailing and controlling freedom of media. The PML-N always kept the media under pressure to use it for its vested interests.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “Audio leak brings PML-N, govt face to face,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

Senate chairman refers the issue of foreign visits to house panel
On 4 January, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani referred the issue of foreign visits of Prime Minister Imran Khan and previous leaders to the house committee for a complete review and preparing a comparative report. This comes after the house witnessed a verbal clash between the opposition and government over the issue. (“Senate chairman refers rulers’ foreign visits to house panel,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Ove 300 homes damaged by rains in the coastal area
On 4 January, over 300 houses were damaged leaving hundreds of people homeless, as heavy winter rains badly affected the coastal areas of the Makran division in Balochistan. According to the Commissioner of Makran division, heavy losses were reported in different areas of Turbat, Gwadar, Pasni, Jiwani and other areas as a large number of mud houses were badly damaged by rainwater. (“Heavy rains wreak havoc in Balochistan’s coastal areas,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

ECONOMY
Federal cabinet agrees to meet another IMF condition for USD 1 billion loan
On 4 January, the federal cabinet agreed to make details of the sovereign guarantees public, which were expected to rise to a record Rs3.2 trillion by June in efforts to meet another condition of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This comes as the IMF has made a list of conditions including bringing a mini-budget, giving absolute autonomy to the central bank by approving the State Bank of Pakistan amendment Bill to be met for the next loan tranche of USD 1 billion. (Shahbaz Rana “Cabinet meets another IMF condition for $1b loan,” The Express Tribune, 5 January 2021)

EXTERNAL
GCC Chief to arrive in Pakistan
On 4 January, the Foreign Office announced that Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Nayef bin Falah Al-Hajraf would visit Pakistan on 5 January to hold delegation-level talks with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. The FO said, “The visit offers the two sides an opportunity to review mutual cooperation and take steps to foster enhanced collaboration in diverse fields, with a renewed focus on trade and economic relations between Pakistan and the GCC Member States.” (“GCC chief to visit Islamabad today,” The Express Tribune, 5 January 2021)

China appreciates enhanced cooperation with Pakistan, says the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokespersonn
On 4 January, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin on the launch of the Pakistan-China Business and Investment Forum said, “China appreciates the prime minister and the Pakistani government for the importance they attached to bilateral relations and promoting trade.” Further, on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he said that China was glad to see enhanced exchanges and cooperation between the two sides, stating, “We will strive to promote investment and trade to the benefit of both countries and peoples.” (“China glad at enhanced cooperation with Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 5 January 2021

DURAND LINE
Taliban government acknowledges fencing issue says matter will be addressed via ‘diplomatic channels’
On 4 January, the Taliban government in Afghanistan taking notice of the issues related to the fencing of Pak-Afghan border said that the matter would be addressed through diplomatic channels. Taliban foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said, “Recently, a few incidents have taken place along the Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan that have given rise to the need for the authorities of the two sides to address the problem,” adding that the Taliban government would address the issue through diplomatic channels. (Tahir Khan, “Pak-Afghan border fencing issue will be addressed through 'diplomatic channels': Taliban,” Dawn, 5 January 2021)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"Truth has a strange way of exposing people. The Scrutiny Committee's report is a damning indictment of IK. PTI has been running away from foreign funding cases for the last 7 years, and now we know why. The façade of "Sadiq aur Ameen" has been shredded into pieces."
- Shehbaz Sharif, leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly of Pakistan

"I welcome ECP's scrutiny of PTI's funding through donations from Overseas Pakistanis. The more our accounts are scrutinized, the more factual clarity will emerge for the nation to see how PTI is the only political party with proper donor base premised on proper political fundraising."
- Prime Minister Imran Khan

"5 Jan 1949 UN Committed to right of self-determination for Kashmiris through an impartial plebiscite. Shameful reflection on UN esp UNSC that it is unable to implement its own commitment despite the growing oppression by a fascist occupation Indian govt in IIOJK"
- Shireen Mazari, Minister for Human Rights 

Also read...

An editorial in The News International titled "Taxing Matters" emphasizes the country's poor state of tax collection. Though a part of the population belonging to middle-income groups is deducted taxes at the source itself, many parliamentarians and officeholders tend not to pay or pay very little. The author iterates that the "MPs must lead by example by contributing to the government's coffers by paying the taxes they owe," and PTI must lead the action.

An editorial in Dawn titled "Shooting the messenger?" highlights the deteriorating press freedom in the country. In terms of the recent statement by the Islamabad High court wanting to "indict journalists," among others, in a case involving an affidavit filed by a former chief justice of Gilgit-Baltistan establishes an unfavorable precedent for press freedom.

An editorial in Dawn on Sindh's local government law has erupted controversy among the ruling and Opposition parties. The author writes, "This LG system has failed manifestly; therefore the PPP should not be stubborn; it should incorporate the valid suggestions of the opposition in the new law, especially as Sindh's ruling party does not have significant representation from Karachi."

An editorial in Dawn titled "Entrenched inflation" stresses the new inflation numbers released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. The inflation rate in the country is at an all-time high- "a whopping annual rate of 12.3 per cent- the highest level in 22 months". Additionally, the author regrets that the government has neglected the issue and has blamed either the "flawed economic policies of the PML-N government" or the current 'global commodity boom' caused by Covid supply disruptions."

An opinion in The Express Tribune written by Talat Masood focuses on how "Muslim countries must pursue policies that demand curbing their long-term economic and political ambitions ."The author presents that most Muslim countries are highly dependent on foreign economic assistance to maintain stability in their own countries. He elaborates that these countries lag in most domains; political, economy, society, or education.

 

"People who are increasingly finding it harder to put food on the table and pay their energy, education, and health bills remain unimpressed.
Inflation is a real issue for the public. Telling them that it's not, or that it's transitory, amounts to insulting their intelligence."

- An editorial in The News International on "Taxing Matters."

 


Violence-related casualties increased in 2021, says report


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Violence-related casualties increased in 2021, says report
On 4 January, Dawn reported that the annual security report (2021) released by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) stated that though violence-related casualties in Pakistan seemed to have accelerated dramatically in 2021. The report stated that there was an increase of 42 per cent in 2021, with 853 fatalities and 1,690 injuries directly linked to violence-related incidents being recorded. The report added that nearly 75 pe cent of all violence-related fatalities were recorded in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. (“Pakistan saw upsurge in violence-related fatalities in 2021: report,” Dawn, 4 January 2021)

PFUJ, PBC and HRCP raise concerns over court directives of indicting journalists in affidavit case
On 3 January, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) and Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) in a joint statement said, “Media reports of court directives to indict senior journalists have created concerns among the national communities of journalists, lawyers and rights activists, and their representative associations, who believe that this may create a precedent that may potentially lead to greater persecution of media by other predators of freedom of expression.” It added, “It is the considered opinion of PFUJ, the apex body of journalists in Pakistan, that reporter Ansar Abbasi merely performed his professional duties whil filing a report related to the affidavit that is in public interest,” adding, “We, along with all these stakeholders of media freedoms, feel that the potentials risks of indictment of journalists for their professional work will further exacerbate the difficulties of enforcement of fundamental rights to Freedom of Expression and right to information and potentially harm media freedoms in the country.” (“Framing journalists: PFUJ, PBC, HRCP, FN say journalists shouldn’t be punished for doing their job,” The News International, 4 January 2021)

PBC warns of boycott all court proceedings if Judicial Commission considers Justice Ayesha elevation
On 3 January, the PBC Vice-Chairman Khushdil Khan and PBC Executive Committee Chairman Muhammad Masood Chishti announced that there would be a boycott of all court proceedings, from the superior judiciary to the lower courts if the Chief Justice of Pakistan does not postpone the meeting of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) to consider the elevation of Justice Ayesha A. Malik of the Lahore High Court (LHC) to the Supreme Court. Further, they reiterated that Justice Ayesha’s elevation violates seniority and called for reforms in appointment rules. (“Bars threaten blanket boycott if Judicial Commission considers woman judge’s elevation,” Dawn, 4 January 2021)

Bill concerning missing persons in Pakistan is on misplaced priorities: Human Rights Minister, Pakistan
On 3 January, Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazar revealed that the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2021 had been passed in the national assembly after due passage from a parliamentary standing committee but perhaps yet to be discussed and approved by the Senate. Pakistan has a history of enforced disappearance from Balochistan and FATA which has crept in in other provinces of Pakistan. The ‘enforced disappearances' has been happening on the pretext of various nefarious objectives and the bill declares it a penal offence punishable by up to five years imprisonment with a fine up to PKR 500,000. (Nadir Guramani, “Missing persons bill has gone 'missing', says Shireen Mazari,” Dawn, 4 January 2022)

PM Khan issued a notice in defamation case
On 4 January, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued notice to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking termination of his response in an Rs10 billion compensation case against Pakistan Muslim League-N’s (PML-N) Khawaja Asif. This came after the IHC was hearing Asif’s petition against the sessions court’s decision to remove the right of cross-examination on the prime minister’s statement. (“IHC issues notice to PM Imran in defamation case” Dawn, 4 January 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: JI challenges new local government law in Sindh High Court
On 3 January, the Jamaat-i-Islami challenged the recently passed Sindh Local Government Act (SLGA) 2021 in the Sindh High Court stating that the new law was in violation of various provisions of the Constitution. JI-Karachi chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman argued that any concern regarding the lack of capacity of local governments must be evaluated considering the provincial government’s own role in undermining such capacities and therefore, the obligation was with the Sindh government to restore and replenish local governments by empowering them instead of further reducing their financial autonomy. (Ishaq Tanoli, “Jamaat-i-Islami challenges new local govt law in Sindh High Court,” Dawn, 4 January 2021)

ECONOMY
President Arif Alvi summons the Senate for clearing Mini-budget
On 4 January the senate is going to convene on President’s guidance for the passage of money bill, which will enable the government to reduce/remove subsidies, the Finance (Supplementary) Bill, 2021, which will make some amendments to amend certain laws related to taxes and duties and the State Bank of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill 2021, which aims to make SBP more sovereign and empowers role of SBP governor. (Amir Wasim, “Shaukat Tarin to lay ‘mini-budget’ in Senate today,” Dawn, 4 January 2022)

PM suggests counter inflation arguments to shed off previous regime’s performances
On 3 January, PM during a meeting remarked “We had got a devastated economy which has been improved considerably, let the opposition not exploit the situation in any way and tell the people the facts and present a factual picture before them.” He added that inflation had been controlled and will reduce further in the upcoming months. (Mumtaz Alvi, “Tell people there is no inflation: PM,” The News International, 4 January 2022)

DURAND LINE
Foreign ministers acknowledge the contentious issue of fencing on Durand Line
On 3 January Shah Mahmood Qureshi maintained that Pakistan would continue fencing the border with Pakistan and discussion about the recent action of the Taliban removing the fence was not in Pakistan’s interest. He asserted that due solution would be worked out through diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, the cabinet asked the interior ministry to bring the urea hoarders and smugglers to justice and assured the farmers that there was ample urea produced for the current year. Due to differences in global and local prices in the urea there was panic among the farmers which has been exploited by the urea dealers. (Rizwan Ghilzai, “Cabinet directs interior ministry to curb urea smuggling,” The Express Tribune, 4 January 2022) (Baqir Sajjad Sayid, “FM Qureshi concedes discord exists with Taliban over border fence,” Dawn, 4 January 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter

“What will you say for him?
Yes Mr. PM!
•there is no inflation for you,
•for your Ministers &
•for your Cronies but there is hyperinflation for a citizen.
This clearly shows that how far are you from reality living & Flying in some other world.”
- Ahsan Iqbal, Secretary General of PML-N

“The Colonial State monopolized forms of violence used against the population. Post-Colonial state has outsourced certain forms of violence to mobs, terrorists and gangsters. The privatisation of violence is the salient feature of the "post-independence" era in the sub-continent.”
- Ammar Ali Jan, Member of the Haqooq-e-Khalq Movement (HKM)

“Open your eyes, look at the ground, look at the sky, look at the atmosphere The large number of women participating in the sit-in of Jamaat-e-Islami against the new local body law in front of the Sindh Assembly is sending a message that without the participation of women in the fight for rights, men cannot succeed.”
-Hamid Mir, Journalist

Also read...

An editorial in Express Tribune titled “Inflation challenge” highlights Pakistan’s deteriorating economy with IMF gaining immense dominance. The author emphasizes that “the country is gradually on a slippage mode in terms of their financial sovereignty”. Additionally, the author rightly points out that under PM Imran Khan who has been an “ardent advocate” of self-reliance and local empowerment but failing miserably.

An editorial in Dawn on “Cybercrime complaints” claims that the public’s trust in law enforcement has gradually increased due to rising complaints records. Nevertheless, the author disagrees with the claim based only on “cosmetic changes and numeric milestones.” The author proposes quality and consistent gender-sensitive training of the staff, accountability, and transparency in the processing of cybercrimes.

An editorial in The News International voices out the worries of Pakistani citizens in the year 2022. The author analyses, due to renewed pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to restructure Pakistan's economy, citizens are concerned about where the money for the next electricity, gas, and petrol bill will come from. “Though there is a discussion of inflationary pressure reducing in 2022, the outlook is not entirely positive,” says the writer.

An editorial in the Dawn on “Maulana’s march” predicts that “the government finds itself with very few good options while the opposition appears to be gaining confidence. The period between now and the scheduled march will determine where national politics is heading.”

In an opinion in the Dawn, the author Arifa Noor gives an account of “Age of Politics”. The writer brings about an exceptional parallel between age and politics and questions “the role of youth and their political choices”.

 

“If government teachers are not turning up to teach, close the schools. When government doctors are reluctant to serve in district hospitals, shut them too.
This is the easiest remedy our governments find handy when they lack any other imaginative solution”
- An editorial in The News International on “Managing Hospitals”

 


700 new Covid cases reported for first time since October 2021


Photo: Dawn



In Brief

INTERNAL

700 new Covid cases reported for first time since October 2021

On 3 January, Pakistan reported 708 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours, the first time since October 2021.  According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the positivity rate has risen to 1.55 per cent. Planning Minister Asad Umar warned that there was clear evidence of the new variant, Omicron increases in many parts of the country. (“Pakistan reports more than 700 new Covid cases for first time since October 2021,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

PM terms rising corruption and sex crimes as the two main evils confronting the Muslim world

On 2 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan termed rising corruption and sex crimes as the two main evils confronting the Muslim world. He said, “There are two sorts of crime in society, one is corruption and the other is sex crime. Sex crime has risen sharply in our society, i.e. rape and child abuse and only one per cent of this is reported,” adding, “The other 99 per cent, I believe, society has to fight it. The same is the case with corruption… society has to make corruption unacceptable. Unfor­tunately, when you have leadership which is corrupt over time, they make corruption acceptable.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Society must fight sex crimes, corruption itself: PM,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

Fazlur Rehman confident about PDM's 'Mehngai' march

On 2 January, JUI chief and PDM leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman asserted that all component parties of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) were fully prepared for the 'Mehngai' march to be conducted on 23 March. Buoyed by the success in KP local government elections, the Maulana said that PTI would be defeated in the second phase of elections as well. (“PDM parties fully prepared for Mehngai march: Fazlur Rehman,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

Around USD 1.8 billion recovered by NAB in Rawalpindi over the four years

On 2 January the anti-graft watchdog NAB  log record was made public, it had filed a record number of reference files against people who were suspect of white-collar crime. According to it, NAB Rawalpindi recovered a total of Rs314bn through plea bargain and other mode of recoveries over the last four years, with indirect recovery recorded an annual increase of 85 per cent. In 49 cases, 160 accused were arrested — an average increase of 67pc. (“Rs314bn recovered from Rawalpindi region in four years: NAB,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

Allrounder and gentleman cricketer Mohammad Hafeez calls it a day

On 2 January, former skipper and all-rounder of Pakistani team Mohammad Hafeez announced his retirement plan from international cricket. He played for his country for 18 years and transformed as cricketer with an amazing sports ethic on ground. His fans remember him by his round the wicket spinning and a generous smile. (Imran Siddique, “'No regrets, satisfied with career': Mohammad Hafeez retires from international cricket,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

ECONOMY

Higher imports tilts the trade deficit in negative direction

On 2 January according to provisional data, the trade deficit has doubled in Pakistan to USD 24.79 billion for the first half of the fiscal year 2021-22. Despite the remarkable growth in exports during the same half, the imports outpaced the exports indicating the rhetoric confirmation of overheating of the economy of Pakistan. (“Trade deficit doubles in July-Dec as imports soar,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

EXTERNAL

Pakistan conveys concern to Taliban over fencing incidents

On 2 January, a senior official while speaking to The Express Tribune stated that the Pakistan has conveyed its concerns at the highest level to the interim Afghan Taliban government over the repeated incidents. The official said that Pakistan was observing "maximum restraint" to avoid any escalation in tensions. This comes after videos circulated on social media showed that Taliban soldiers at the border breaking polls using a truck. (“Concerns conveyed to Afghan Taliban on fencing incidents,” The Express Tribune, 3 January 2022)

Pak-China Business Investment Forum launched by PM Khan

On 3 January, Prime Minister Imran Khan launched the Pak-China Business Investment Forum which is aimed at increasing information exchange and promoting communication between businesses between China and Pakistan. The forum consists of 18 Chinese and 19 Pakistani companies and seeks to promote sustainable investment, export industry and development of modern technology in Pakistan. (“PM Imran launches Pak-China Business Investment Forum,” Dawn, 3 January 2022)

 


PM brings in private health sector participation across the nation


Photo: Dawn



In Brief

INTERNAL

PM brings in private health sector participation across the nation

On 31 December, the PM while launching the Health Card, which provides insurance and cost coverage for medical treatment declared that all district headquarters hospitals would be dissolved and private sector would be invited to become a stakeholder and provide quality healthcare to the people of Pakistan. (Mansoor Malik, “New system to replace district HQ hospitals, says PM Imran,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

Prime Ministers Inspection’s Commission (PMIC) nearing investigation of Pandora paper leaks

On 31 December sources in the PMIC revealed that 80 per cent of the enquiry has been completed against the names appeared in Pandora leaks. Names from all white-collar professions in Pakistan had appeared in the list though PMIC had received names of 240 individuals. Many prominent names had been listed in the leaks including current finance minsters Shaukat Tarin. (“80pc inquiry into Pandora Papers leak complete,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

IHC summons Rana Shamim and journalists in contempt of court 

On 28 December the Islamabad High Court declared that former chief judge of Gilgit-Baltistan and journalists like Aamer Ghauri and Ansar Abbasi had tried to influence the IHC by publishing the affidavit Rana Shamim had submitted to court. The court observed that freedom of expression freedom of expression did not apply on the cases pending in the courts. (“Rana Shamim, journalists prima facie committed contempt of court: IHC,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

Provinces

Sindh: Controversial local government law not acceptable to Jamaat-e-Islami

On 30 December, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Karachi chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman declared that the JI would stage a sit in protest in front of the Sindh assembly against the problematic local government law which aims to squeeze the financial powers of local government. He further added that feudal mindset in PPP was not allowing to empowerment of local bodies. (“JI to stage sit-in against controversial LG law today,” The News International, 1 January 2022)

Punjab: Local government bodies dissolved in Punjab ahead of local body elections

On 31 December the Punjab government notified the dissolution of local governments in the province and appointed administrators in administrative capacity. The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s (PTI) Punjab government had dissolved the local bodies constituted under the Punjab Local Government Act (PLGA) 2013 in May 2019, soon after coming to power. However, the Supreme Court ordered restoration of local government institutions in March 2021 after declaring their dissolution as unconstitutional. (Imran Gabol, “Administrators appointed: Dissolution of local govts notified,”  Dawn, 1 January 2022)

External

China Study Centre launched in a Women’s University in Balochistan

On 31 December, the governor of Balochistan formally inaugurated the China Study Center at Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University (SBKWU) while the Chinese Consul General in Karachi Mr. Li Bijian addressed the participants of the inauguration ceremony online. The governor said ‘He said ‘the establishment of China Study Center (CSC) at Women’s University is a milestone in introducing new knowledge and research to the new generation.’ (“Governor Balochistan inaugurates China Study Centre at SBKWU,” The Nation, 1 January 2022)

Economy

Economic Coordination Committee clears pending projects ranging from gas pipeline to housing

On 31 December the economic coordination committee opened floodgates of money for new and older projects. The projects include National Engineering and Scientific Commission’s (NECOP) projects in ammunition development, Naya Pakistan Housing and Development Authority (NAPHDA) for revision of customer pricing and mark-up subsidy period under Tier-I of the government scheme for low-cost housing and inclusion of housing finance companies. The government also extended untargeted subsidy on five essential consumer commodities for another month. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “ECC allows subsidy on five essential items for another month,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

Government debt securities up to USD 3.4 billion traded in open market operations (OMO) by SBP in a day

On 31 December State Bank of Pakistan traded government debt securities with commercial bank for a period of 63 days in a single day. The third OMO in series of weeks in December accumulates to USD 19.4 billion. The ample liquidity for short term periods of OMO and decline in long term OMO is to be watched carefully. (Kazim Alam,           “SBP injects Rs604bn through 63-day OMO,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

Editorials/ Opinion

In her opinion piece Dr Ayesha Razzaque discusses about definition of successful business stories and its confused causal relationship with dropout from educational institutes in Pakistan. The trio of Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs and Bill Gates further widens the confusion in application of policies in Pakistan’s context. And the most important question she raises is the role of universities in failing to make the education and knowledge non redundant. (Dr Ayesha Razzaque, “Myth of the dropout entrepreneur,” The News International, 1 January 2022)

In the editorial for Dawn, Fahd Hussain spins his head about the irony of celebration of a periodicity and is an air of despair and anxiety prevailing in Pakistan on the first day of the new year. The air needs to cleared of toxicity of partisanship and hatredness thereupon the healing can take place for some optimism for the new year. Mr. Hussain fears the accumulation of wounds and unexpected shedding of charade of statecraft governance. (Fahd Hussain, “Catch ’22,” Dawn,1 January 2022)

In his piece Abdullah Naveed explains about the concept of tawhid (competing discourses) as prevalent in Islamic debates under the umbrella of certainty in theology. Academic discourse on Islam predates it to pre-modern form as a more polyvalent in interpretations of religious injunctions. The fossilized form of interpretation not only damages the healthy process of interpretation but also limits the expedients in politicking. (Abdullah Naveed, “Beyond certainty: theologies of difference,” Dawn, 1 January 2022)

 

Also Read

An opinion in Dawn, writer, Ali Tauqeer Sheikh states that Pakistan has promoted itself as a role model for the rest of the globe. Nearly 200 activities are pledged by the NDC. A large number of them have explicit objectives and deadlines, necessitating rapid, if not urgent, action. This year, 2022, will likely be the most crucial in terms of determining Pakistan’s climate policy direction and momentum.

A piece in opinion page in Dawn, critically looks at the much-debated mini budget, while the bill’s negative inflationary implications cannot be emphasized, fresh fiscal measures were required to return the economy to a level of stability. These budgetary initiatives were also necessary to support the State Bank’s recent actions to limit money supply in the market and rein in inflation.

An op-ed in the The Express Tribune states various reasons behind recent terrorist attack in Quetta, the terrorist act is intended to cause economic harm to Pakistan, as it comes only days after the government announced its first-ever National Security Policy, focusing on geo-economics rather than geo-politics. The device was detonated remotely, killing four individuals and injuring several others. Since the third week of November, there have been two bomb explosions in the provincial capital. Earlier in the day, a terrorist incident occurred near a high-end hotel in the city.

 

 


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