|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In Brief
PROVINCES
Punjab: Federal Service Tribunal defers the reinstatement of Lahore Capital City Police Officer
On 25 November, a two-member bench of the Federal Service Tribunal (FST) suspended its previous decision of bringing back Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Ghulam Mahmood Dogar and asked a larger bench to hear the case. The bench directed officials to put a transfer order against the CCPO. The counsel for the CCPO said that the transfer order was violating the Rules of Business. FST was also met with criticism from the ED, who challenged the FST’s previous decision and said that jurisdiction to pass the order was presumed. It “warranted” the FST to include a larger bench for the case, and said that the petition of the counsel for the case was accepted. (Asif Chaudhry, “Lahore CCPO to sit out as tribunal suspends its earlier decision,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
Balochistan: PM Shehbaz Sharif says he will not tolerate ‘laxity’, pushes Gwadar Port to be used for cargo of wheat
On 24 November, PM Shehbaz directed the authorities of Gwadar city to use the port for the cargo of 50 per cent of wheat and urea and said that the functionality of the port was “essential for the upliftment of Balochistan.” In a review meeting of the Kissan Package, the PM said that the government was giving “all possible measures” for the full operationalising of Gwadar Port. He emphasised that the implementation of these measures would support the farmers in the aftermath of the floods, and would “enable” them to reap the benefits of the upcoming crop season. He also said that the government is giving a subsidy on the tube wells to the farmers in flood-induced areas. (“PM directs Gwadar port to be used for wheat, urea cargo,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022)
Sindh: Sindh government talks of an alternative plan of action for the Yellow line with the World Bank
On 24 November, the Sindh Minister for Information, Transport and Mass Transit held discussions with the World Bank to review the original Yellow line plan and convened to outline alternative proposals for the plan, to reduce the cost of the project. A statement was issued after the meeting, which said that the two sides agreed to hold further discussions and would take a final call in the next seven days. The statement said that the Sindh Government is “making serious efforts” to improve the standard of public transport in the city and that the People’s Bus Services has been a “successful model”, costing PKR 8 billion. The government has proposed a model with lesser infrastructure costs and increased fleets and was ensured by the World Bank of their priorities. The World Bank said that it is “committed to providing all “possible support” to the Sindh government. (Imran Ayub, “Revised plans to bring down Yellow Line cost shared with World Bank,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
Balochistan: Supreme Court worried about the implications of Reko Diq mining on groundwater levels
On 24 November, the Supreme Court expressed concern over the unfavourable effects of large-scale mining at the Reko Diq site could have on the level of groundwater in the Balochistan province, which is already battling scarce water supply due to a lack of seasonal rains. During the hearing of the project, the judge questioned the huge quantities of water that would be used for the project and asked about the source of the water supply as well. In response to the query, the counsel said that the water in the site was sufficient enough, and that “large water reservoirs” would be built for its preservation. CJP Umar Bandial also warned the counsel of the use of aquifers in the site and that the “wastage” of water could “only be imagined.”(“SC concerned over groundwater depletion at Reko Diq site,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
INTERNAL
Reporters Without Borders pushes authorities to ‘respect’ citizens’ rights
On 25 November, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) asked the country’s authorities to assure the citizens of their rights to journalism, after an investigative website, FastFocus, was wholly or partially inaccessible to the public after it published a story about the “extraordinary wealth” accumulated by the outgoing COAS’s family. RSF said that it was “unacceptable” in a democracy that a “perfectly sourced” and “careful” report about an issue could interest the public of Pakistan to be “brutally censored” in this manner. Additionally, it also called on the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb to assure that the website would be fully accessible to the citizens so that it could continue to publish reports “with complete freedom.” (“Reporters Without Borders slams curbs on FactFocus website,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
Maulana Fazlur Rehman says PTI’s long march was meant to ‘disrupt’ Saudi Crown Prince’s arrival in Pakistan
On 24 November, PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that PTI’s long march was delayed because the Saudi crown prince’s visit to the country was not finalised and that it was meant to disturb his visit to Pakistan. He said that political instability “always” led to economic destruction and the “collapse” of the country and that the PDM was “working hard” to put Pakistan on the “track” of development and prosperity. Further, he mentioned Imran Khan’s criticism of the military establishment and pushed the political parties to “play a dual role” to counter his claims and that the PDM would work against the “conspiracies” that the country is facing. He also claimed that Imran Khan had “no right” to represent the country and that PTI wanted to “destroy” the government. (Haleem Asad, “Fazl accuses Imran of disrupting Saudi crown prince’s visit,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
Supreme Court asks Faisal Vawada to ‘admit’ his mistakes and accept disqualification
On 24 November, the Supreme Court (SC) pushed former PTI lawmaker Faisal Vawda to confess to his mistakes and accept the one-time disqualification from the court. A three-judge bench led by the Cheif Justice of Pakistan (CJP) upheld the Election Commission's (ECP) ruling for Vawda’s disqualification because of his dual nationalities, and said that the court had “enough material” to disqualify him “for life.” The CJP said that Vawda has to admit to his mistakes in writing and that he must appear before the court and admit to changing the date of his dual citizenship. The counsel for Vawda said that the ECP was not “a court of law” and condemned their stance, but was met with the CJP’s positioning that Vawda had given a false affidavit to the court and that “there is no room for mistake in politics.” (“Apex court tells Vawda to admit mistake,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022)
ECONOMY
Foreign Exchange Reserves plummet to USD 7.8 billion
On 24 November, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said that the country saw a decline of USD 134 million to USD 7.8 billion in foreign exchange reserves in the week ending on 18 November. The Exchange Companies Association of Pakistan (ECAP) said that the interbank rate of the dollar was PKR 225 which, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) was PKR 223.92. The drop in forex reserves is the primary reason for the weakness of the PKR against the dollar and will see a further decline of USD 1 billion following the maturity of Sukuk bonds on 5 December. Further, the SBP said that Pakistan’s total reserves also saw a decrease of USD 151 million to USD 13.6 billion by Nov 18 because of external debt repayments. The revenue collection of the SBP is also witnessing a downturn, creating pressure on the government to levy increased taxes for higher revenue generation to wedge the fiscal gap. (Shahid Iqbal, “State Bank reserves fall to $7.8bn,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
Government looks for USD 13 billion in foreign funding for floods over three years
On 25 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan is expecting nearly USD 13 billion from international funding agencies and lending partners to cater about 80 per cent to the Resilient Recovery and Reconstruction Framework (3RF) in the next three years. This comes as the government is discussing the final financial structure for the plan, where USD 10 billion, USD 7.9 billion, and USD 2.2 billion would be required for Sindh and Balochistan respectively. The government has figured out an overall funding requirement for 10 years, requiring about USD 40 billion from international financing, redirection of funds, and for public-private partnerships. The plan is estimated at around USD16.6 billion and USD 13 billion from international and local resources respectively. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt expects $13bn in foreign flood aid over three years,” Dawn, 25 November 2022)
The stalemate between the government and sugar mills continue
On 24 November, the deadlock between the government and sugar mills for permission to export sugar continued to persist. Punjab’s Food Security Minister said that “no decision” could be made on the export of sugar, and that the government has “not allowed” it. He mentioned that the sugar mills presented a plan to resolve the stalemate, but was refuted by the Commerce Minister, who said that a third-party audit of the stocks would be conducted. On 2 December, the sugar mills will submit their stock details and the decision regarding the export would be after the stock position is verified by the third party. Additionally, the sugar mill owners said that they will put the strikes on hold and would await the government’s permission for the exports. (Haseeb Hanif, “Deadlock persists in talks on sugar export,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022)
ON INDIA
Foreign Office denies India’s comments at the UNSC briefing
On 24 November, Pakistan rejected India’s “unwarranted” remarks made against the country at the UN Security Council briefing and said that India’s “irresponsible” comments confirmed that “it does not have the competence” to qualify as a permanent member of the UNSC. This comes as the Permanent Mission of India to UN’s statement condemned Pakistan for “taking up” the J&K issue. Further, the FO mentioned its stance on the Indus Waters Treaty by India and said that the World Bank had a “special responsibility” to the treaty, emphasising that Pakistan is “very closely engaged” with the World Bank and has “noted” the progress of the issue. (“FO rejects India’s remarks at UNSC briefing,” The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran summoned for Toshakhana case hearing
On 21 November, the criminal trial of Imran Khan for concealing information about the Toshakhana gifts formally began as the district and session’s court summoned him on a reference filed by the ECP. The ECP sent the reference to the court, asking it to proceed against Mr Khan under criminal law for allegedly misleading officials about the gifts he received from foreign dignitaries during his tenure as the prime minister. The commission seeks a three-year jail term and imposition of fine as the punishment. The ECP requested the PTI chief be convicted for the offences mentioned under sections 167 and 173 of the Elections Act 2017. (Malik Asad, “Court summons Imran today as Toshakhana case hearing begins,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
PTI’s long march was a conspiracy to push its chief Imran Khan into a blind alley, says Faisal Vawda
On 21 November, former PTI leader Faisal Vawda claimed that the PTI’s long march was a conspiracy to push its chief Imran Khan into a blind alley. He said that Imran Khan will never become prime minister again, advising him to think of those who could become the premier and investigate who could be involved in the alleged conspiracy. Vawda made these comments while talking to the media after appearing before a fact-finding committee of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) set up to investigate the murder of Arshad Sharif in Kenya. While talking to the media, he claimed the journalist’s murder was planned in Pakistan and he hoped the culprits, who were very powerful, were arrested. However, he said the owner of a TV channel, who was being blamed for involvement in the case, had nothing to do with it. (“Ikram Junaidi, “March is ‘conspiracy’ to push Imran into ‘blind alley’: Vawda,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
No evidence of murder plot against Imran and journalist, says Tasnim Haider Shah
On 22 November, The News International reported that Syed Tasnim Haider Shah, who claimed that the assassination plot against Imran Khan and journalist Arshad Sharif was made by the PMLN in London, has accepted he has no evidence of any kind to prove his claims and that Imran Khan’s shooter has reached Kenya and belongings of Arshad Sharif have reached London too. Tasnim Haider claimed at the press conference that he has evidence that he has handed over to the police but during an interview with this publication denied having any evidence of the conspiracy and said he himself was the evidence.(Murtaza Ali Shah, “Tasnim Haider Shah says has no evidence of murder plot against Imran, journalist,” The News International, 22 November 2022)
JUDICIARY
Petition moved in PHC against Joyland movie as un-Islamic
On 21 November, the Peshawar High Court directed the federal government, regulators, filmmaker and the country’s top religious body to respond by 23 November to a petition seeking a ban on the movie Joy land and the removal of its trailers from social media. The petitioners made the federal government, law and justice ministry, and the movie’s director and producer the respondents. The petitioners insisted that Joy land was an unIslamic and unconstitutional movie and was made to “insult their religion, family system, bond and domestic life.” The petitioners also said Joy land didn’t fall in the category of entertainment and instead, it would negatively impact the people, especially youths, and destroy marriages and family institutions by promoting nudity, vulgarity and homosexuality, which was fatal for the entire society, and thus, inviting the extreme displeasure of the Almighty Allah. (“Lawyers move Peshawar High Court for a ban on ‘un-Islamic’ movie Joyland,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
LHC to get replies on the plea against a single national curriculum
On 21 November, the Lahore High Court sought replies from the federal and provincial governments on a petition challenging the introduction of the Single National Curriculum (SNC) and its implementation by the Punjab Curriculum & Textbook Board (PCTB). The barrister Ahmad Pansota argued both the books and the syllabus were biased, discriminatory and unfair, hence, ultra vires to the petitioners’ fundamental rights guaranteed under articles 22, 25-A, 36 and 38 of the Constitution. The counsel further submitted that under the SNC the non-Muslim Pakistani students were bound to study a religion, other than their own, which was a clear violation of Article 22(1) of the Constitution. Objecting to the composition of the board, he said it did not include members from all ethnicities and religious minorities while devising the curriculum. The counsel stated that some material in the SNC was socially incorrect, which would create different impressions among the children at a young age and lead to further complications in their minds with regard to the world at large. (“ LHC seeks replies from Centre, Punjab on plea against Single National Curriculum,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
ECONOMY
Credit default swaps increased up to 92.53 per cent owing to the political turmoil
On 21 November, local brokerage data showed that the cost of insuring exposure to Pakistan’s five-year sovereign debt rose by 1,224 basis points over the weekend, hitting the highest-ever level of 92.53 per cent. Analysts said the country’s sovereign dollar bonds would remain vulnerable until the political standoff between the government and the main opposition party is settled. Despite the recent rollover of Chinese debt and fresh infusions from the World Bank and ADB, reserves have been declining. As talks with the IMF over the ninth review of the loan facility come to a stalemate, its external financial strains are increasing. Friendly nations have not made any definite funding pledges. (Erum Zaidi, “Default risk: Credit default swap shoots up to 92.53pc on political unrest,” The News International, 22 November 2022)
FDI falls 52 per cent in the first four months of the financial year
On 21 November, the State Bank of Pakistan’s latest data issued showed that the FDI fell to USD 348.3 million in July-October FY23 from USD 726.5 million during the same period of the last fiscal year. Foreign direct investment fell 52 per cent during the first four months of the current fiscal year reflecting the poor economic health and political instability in the country. The FDI has been declining each year while the volume of investment is also very thin compared to that of regional countries like India, Bangladesh and China. While the main investment is limited to a few sectors, the FDI inflows are limited to a few countries. The highest FDI of USD 74.8m came from China during the first four months of the current fiscal year against USD 99.5m during the same period last year. China has been the biggest investor for the past several years, but its investment has started declining as reflected in the comparative figures for two years. (“Foreign direct investment plunges 52pc in four months,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Report sought over the forced child marriages in the province
On 21 November, the Federal Shariat Court sought a report from the government regarding the suo moto notice of the forced marriage of a six-year-old girl. When the law officer submitted a report regarding the incident, he was asked about the steps being taken by the legislature to prevent child marriages as well as forced marriages. The court directed the law officer to submit a detailed report regarding such legislation and the draft for such legislation before the next hearing. (Malik Asad, “FSC takes notice of child marriages in Balochistan,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
Punjab: Opposition walks out over denial of bill’s copies
On 21 November, opposition in the Punjab Assembly staged a walkout in protest against the government’s new norm of doing legislation without even sharing the draft law with the members. When Speaker Sibtain Khan suspended relevant rules of procedure to take up two bills, which were not on the order of the day, the Opposition members demanded copies of the proposed bills, particularly the Punjab Public Financial Management Bill 2022. The House passed the financial management bill, as well as the Layyah University Bill 2022, amid a walkout by the PML-N and PPP lawmakers over not distributing their copies among the members. The resolution demanded an end to police raids on Mr Sheikh’s residence and the withdrawal of all cases registered against him by Sindh police. The speaker later put off the proceedings for 5 December. (“Opposition in Punjab Assembly stages walkout over being denied bills’ copies,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
Balochistan: Reko Diq to restore international credibility and economic progress, says senior counsel
On 21 November, the Supreme Court was informed that Reko Diq settlement negotiations were effectively concluded by the previous government and the commitment to see these through was reinforced by the present coalition government, this was indeed a new start to build a consensus across the political divide to advance Pakistan’s economic progress. Senior counsel Zahid F. Ebrahim, who was appointed as amicus curiae, emphasized before a five-judge SC bench hearing a presidential reference on the mining deal for exploration of gold and copper in Balochistan’s Reko Diq area that the renewed settlement, when finalized, will restore Pakistan’s international credibility, economic credentials and help feature the country as a foreign investment destination on the world’s map. (Nasir Iqbal, “Reko Diq settlement reflects political consensus, SC told,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
Sindh: ECP to announce verdict on holding local elections in Karachi
On 22 November, Dawn reported that the ECP will announce its verdict on holding local government elections in the Karachi division. A five-member bench headed by CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja reserved the verdict on 15 November after hearing the pleas against delay in holding the polls. Joint Secretary Interior Muhammad Ramzan Malik told the ECP that the ministry could not provide civil armed forces for election duties. He said the bulk of security forces was still busy in the flood-affected areas of Sindh, “We are not in a position to fulfil the security needs of local government elections.” He also added that due to the shortage of personnel, it was not possible to provide security and administrative staff for the elections. (Ifthikar A. Khan, “ECP to decide fate of Karachi LG polls today,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan rejects Indian references to terrorism against the nation
On 21 November, Pakistan rejected all references and insinuations by the Indian leadership directed against it at the ‘No Money for Terror’ ministerial meeting held in New Delhi. The Foreign Office said, “India’s hollow rhetoric has fallen flat in the face of Pakistan’s successful counter-terrorism measures, which have been accorded due recognition and acknowledgement from the FATF.” The FO alleged that India’s involvement in inciting terrorism inside Pakistan was widely established and documented. In November 2020. (“FO rejects India’s ‘hollow rhetoric’ on terrorism,” Dawn, 22 November 2022)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In Brief
ECONOMY
Default risks reach the maximum measure
On 16 November, the default risk measured by five-year credit-default swaps (CDS) — insurance contracts protecting an investor against a default- rose sharply overnight amid political turmoil and uncertainty about talks with the IMF. Official sources in Washington said the schedule for talks between Pakistan and the IMF had been readjusted, but the negotiations are continuing. Media reports claimed that the talks that were scheduled to begin in early November had been postponed until the third week of November. According to these reports, the talks would resume after Pakistan fulfilled its pledge to adjust sales tax on petroleum products and took other measures required under a loan agreement revived earlier this year. The day-to-day increase in the CDS reflects a grave situation, making it increasingly difficult for the government to raise foreign exchange from markets either through bonds or commercial borrowings. (Shahid Iqbal “Default risk soars amid political turmoil, delay in IMF talks,” Dawn, 17 November 2022)
INTERNAL
JIT reconstitution gets rejected by Centre
On 17 November, the Centre rejected the new JIT team formed by the Punjab government and suggested that it reconstitute the body by giving intelligence officials a role to ensure a fair investigation. The federal government said it would not accept a ‘controversial’ police officer, Ghulam Mahmood Dogar, who had allegedly violated the orders of the establishment division in the past, as head of the JIT. In its letter to the Punjab government, the interior ministry stated that the constitution of the JIT under Section 19(1) of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 requires the inclusion of an officer of any other investigation agency, including an intelligence agency. The federal government pointed out that the JIT comprised five members, all belonging to the Punjab police, without representation of any other intelligence agency in violation of the ATA. (Asif Chaudhry, “Centre rejects Punjab-led JIT on Wazirabad shooting,” Dawn, 17 November 2022)
Petition against long march quashed by the Supreme Court
On 17 November, the Supreme Court disposed of a plea seeking orders to stop Imran Khan's long march, observing that the apex court's interference on the matter would be "premature.” The SC told the petitioner a fresh plea could be filed if the law and order situation worsens in light of the long march. At the outset of the hearing, the petitioner said it's been two weeks since Khan's long march kicked off." Justice Ayesha said the everyday life of people has been disrupted due to the long march. PTI reserves its right to hold a long march, but in no way is it allowed to disturb a commoner's life." CJP said that he had cited the violations of the previous long march and asked the court to intervene in the matter. "But the long march is a political issue, there is a political solution to it as well.” He told the petitioner that when the judiciary gets involved in political matters, it creates a "difficult situation" for the court. (Maryam Nawaz, “SC disposes of petition to stop PTI's long march,” The News International, 17 November 2022)
‘Joyland’ gets cleared of the censor board
On 16 November, Prime Minister’s Strategic Reforms head Salman Sufi confirmed that Saim Sadiq's directorial, Joyland, is cleared for release in Pakistan after a committee deemed it appropriate for screening. Salman Sufi tweeted that "Freedom of speech is a fundamental right and should be nourished within the ambit of the law." Sufi told the Associated Press the film would be allowed to release in Pakistan with ‘minor cuts’. “The decision is a simple yet powerful message that the government stands by freedom of speech and safeguards it, and cannot allow mere smear campaigns or disinformation to be used as choking creative freedom,” Sufi said. The government, albeit, has not yet withdrawn Joyland’s ‘uncertified’ status, which needs to be done in order for the film to be cleared. (“Censor Board clears 'Joyland' for release with minor cuts,” The Express Tribune, 17 November 2022)
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Reqo Dik to give the province USD 32 billion in 47 years
On 16 November, the lawyer representing the government told the Supreme Court that the province would receive USD 32 billion in 47 years from the Reqo Dik project. He informed that 25 per cent of the proceeds gained from the gold mine project belonged to the provincial government. Of this 25per cent share, 15per cent would be held by a holding and offshore company of Balochistan. CJP inquired when the project would be completed. To this, the lawyer replied that three years would be spent on preparing the feasibility studies of the project. (“ Balochistan to get $32b in 47 years from Reqo Dik,” The Express Tribune, 17 November 2022)
Sindh: Commission constituted for the protection of journalists and media persons
On 17 November, the government established the Commission for the Protection of Journalists and other Media Practitioners (CJMP). According to the provincial government’s notification, the commission was formed in pursuance of subsection 1 of section 8 of the Sindh Protection of Journalists and other Media Practitioners Act, 2021, which orders the formation of the CJMP. The notification said that the “Commission shall perform functions as assigned to it under the Act.” It furthered that the chairperson and non-official members would “hold office for a period as provided under section 10 and 8 of the Act, respectively.”(“Sindh govt forms commission for protection of journalists, media practitioners,” The Express Tribune, 17 November 2022)
EXTERNAL
USD 135 million was raised by the US to support Pakistani farmers
On 17 November, according to a US Department of State press release, the United States announced that a total of USD 135 million had been raised as funding to combat global fertiliser shortages and food insecurity in low- and middle-income countries. In a tweet, the US Embassy in Islamabad announced that the United States plans to provide support to Pakistan through the funds raised by the Global Fertiliser Challenge. The embassy referred to the countries' "multiyear partnership" in the US-Pakistan Green Alliance and shared its plans to help Pakistani farmers "use fertiliser more efficiently" and "maximise food production". (“US raises $135m to combat food insecurity, aims to support Pakistani farmers,” The Express Tribune, 17 November 2022)
GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Supreme Court overrules the registrar’s objection on judge‘s appointment challenging
On 16 November, the Supreme Court overruled the registrar's office objections on a petition that challenged the appointment of a judge as well as the extension given to three judges of the Gilgit-Baltistan’s chief court by the Pakistan government, noting that questions raised in the plea relating to the governance of area needed to be addressed. Chief Minister Khalid Khursheed Khan had filed a constitutional petition under Article 184(3) of the Constitution through senior lawyer Makhdoom Ali Khan and made the federal government, GB governor and newly-appointed Judge Chief Court Javed Ahmed respondents. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had given an extension to three judges of the GB Chief Court on September 16 following a summary moved by GB Governor Syed Mahdi Shah. However, the summary was initiated without consulting the chief minister. Later, the registrar’s office returned the petition by raising seven objections. Meanwhile, the GB CM challenged the objections by filing an appeal.(Hasnaat Malik, “SC overrules registrar’s objections on G-B CM plea,” The Express Tribune, 17 November 2022)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan vilifies the Chief Election Commissioner, asks the Chief Justice of Pakistan to intervene
On 15 November, Imran Khan criticised the role of the Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja and pushed the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial to intercede. In a video message addressing the long march rallies, Imran Khan said that the election commissioner was working against the PTI and that he was “working for the handlers”. He pushed the CJP to hear the case of the PTI against the commissioner and said that he is “targetting” him with the Toshakhana and foreign funding cases. Imran Khan said that the commissioner was “indicating” his bias against the PTI, while also criticising other leaders, including PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif and PPP leader Yousuf Raza Gillani. (Ahmad Fraz Khan, “Railing against election czar, Imran seeks CJP’s intervention,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Reko Diq litigation case was to be decided on international arbitration, says counsel
On 15 November, Additional Attorney General Chaudhary Aamir Rehman informed the Supreme Court (SC) that a previous Reko Diq litigation instructed the Balochistan court to “stay out of the matter” and await an outcome of international arbitration. The counsel explained to the SC that the previous chief justice had agreed to the hearing of a petition, but saw a sudden cease to the hearing, leading to a “null and void” Changhai hills exploration joint venture agreement for exploring gold and copper in the Reko Diq region. The attorney argued that a decision taken in the present should not lead to a “carte blanche” on the investors, and emphasised that the current references of the case are of sufficient value to the public and asked the government to indulge carefully. (“Cancellation of Reko Diq mining lease behind arbitration, SC told,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Pakistan Information Commission receives the highest number of queries against the Defence and Finance ministries
On 15 November, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) collected the highest amount of appeals against the Defence Ministry where 2,474 complaints were filed by citizens. The Ministry of Finance joined the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), where the number of complaints filed against the FIA and the CDA remained the same. Dawn said that in nearly 50 per cent of the cases, information was not cohesive from the public sector bodies, or was in the process of being collected. It said that the PIC has “become dysfunctional” and that citizens are finding it challenging to retrieve information from federal public bodies. Out of the 2,474 complaints, 1,030 were resolved. Among public entities that “refused” to share information, the ministries of information, foreign affairs, and interior and human rights were some of them. (Ikram Junaidi, “Defence, finance most queried ministries, PIC report reveals,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Election Commission of Pakistan ‘accuses’ Sindh for postponement of local government elections
On 15 November, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) came down on the Sindh government in a hearing of pleas against the adjournment of the local government elections and said that the provincial government is “taking away” the Election Commission’s responsibility to hold the elections. The ECP’s Joint Secretary criticised the government for the delay and stressed that the elections should be “held at the earliest” under the Supreme Court’s orders. The ECP also questioned the government on its ability to provide security for the elections and asked them to announce a date for the same. (Iftikhar A Khan, “ECP accuses Sindh of ‘usurping’ its power to hold LG polls,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Dubai businessman says Toshakana gifts were ‘sold’ to him, claims he bought ‘state gifts’
On 16 November, Dubai-based businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor says he bought expensive items gifted to Imran Khan by the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, for USD 2 million. He claimed that he bought “an expensive Graff wristwatch”, and said that the adviser to Imran Khan had “contacted” him in 2019 to “sell watches, rings, and other gifts” and held that he had evidence to support his claims. Zahoor mentioned that he was “blackmailed” under “fake cases of money laundering” as well. This statement comes as Imran Khan is facing controversy for his “charges of misuse” of the Toshakhana. (“Dubai-based businessman claims Toshakhana gifts sold to him,” The Express Tribune, 16 November 2022)
Life expectancy in Pakistan drops to 65 years
On 15 November, the Pakistan Demographic Survey (PDS) released indicators of the demographic position of the country and said that the life expectancy of Pakistan dipped to 65 years from 65.4 years two years ago. This comes as the PDS conducted the 20th round of surveys, 13 years since the last one. The results of the survey were compared with indicators of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PHDS) and the Pakistan Standard of Living Standards and indicated that the current results are nearly similar to the ones conducted in the previous years. Other indicators saw a slight increase, with general mortality rates ranging higher in rural areas than urban areas, and the population reaching 220.42 million today. (“Life expectancy in Pakistan edges lower to 65 years,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
PM Shehbaz forms a committee to look into complaints against the film Joyland
On 16 November, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a special committee to evaluate complaints filed against film Joyland which was banned almost a week before its release in Pakistan. According to the notice, the committee will “consider the complaints against the said film being against the social and moral norms, and recommend follow-up action.” (Tahir Sherani, “PM Shehbaz Sharif forms committee to evaluate complaints against Joyland,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Chaman border stays shut for a third consecutive day, authorities allow people to enter through ‘emergency route’
On 15 November, Dawn reported that the Chaman border remained closed for a continuous third day, where the authorities of the region allowed Pakistani and Afghan nationals to go to their countries through an “emergency route”. A senior official told Dawn that negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan were underway, and said that the route would only be opened once “security personnel is handed over to Pakistan”. Pakistan’s border security allowed several Pakistanis to cross into Chaman but were stranded in Kandahar, Spin Boldak and other areas of Afghanistan after the border was closed. The authorities said that they are allowing “only those who were producing documentary proof of Pakistani nationality”. (Saleem Shahid, “Chaman border remains closed for third day,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two police officers on polio duty killed in Tank
On 15 November, two police officers who were on polio duty were killed by “unknown terrorists” in Tank. According to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police, the attack took place within the precincts of Gomal police station in Kachagraha. Following the attack, President Dr Arif Alvi strongly condemned the attack and said that the sacrifices of security personnel and health workers during the national polio drive would not go in vain. (“2 police officers on polio security martyred by firing in KP’s Tank,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Four TTP members killed in a clash with security forces in Dera Ismail Khan
On 15 November, four alleged terrorists belonging to the TTP, Gandapur group, were killed in a clash with members of security forces in the Maddi area of Kulachi tehsil. According to the police, the terrorists were planning to carry out terror activities in the area and they were killed in a joint operation of the police’s Counter-Terrorism Department and security forces. The police said that when security personnel encircled the area, the TTP terrorists opened fire, triggering a clash. During the clash, an improvised explosive device exploded, killing the four terrorists on the spot. The security forces also destroyed several hideouts of the militants. (Muhammad Irfan Mughal, “Four TTP men killed in D.I. Khan,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
EXTERNAL
China lauds Pakistan’s verdicts on the terrorist attacks in Dasu
On 15 November, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that China “appreciates” Pakistan’s concerted efforts to “get to the bottom” of the previous year’s terrorist attacks in Dasu, in Khyber Pakhtunkwa. The spokesperson said that Pakistan had carried out the investigations of the attack with “utmost seriousness” and remarked that China would be supportive of the country’s counter-terrorism efforts. The verdict mentioned that the accused would be “awarded capital punishment” over the attacks. Additionally, the spokesperson said that China was in close communication to support the safety and security of Chinese nationals, and emphasised that the Chinese would enhance the security measures of those living in Pakistan. (“China welcomes verdict in Dasu attack case,” The Express Tribune, 16 November 2022)
ECONOMY
Pakistan Government requests the IMF to issue waivers on ‘performance criteria’, asks for ‘structural adjustments’
On 15 November, Pakistan’s formal discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the quarterly review of the Extended Fund Facility (EEF) experienced a “delay” in the midst of the government’s request for waivers, owing to flood losses and the Fund asking the government to “stick” to tax-to- GDP ratio of 11 per cent. Officials said that the government was talking to the IMF mission for “sharing data” on the country’s performance in July-September, and said that the data “was not firmed up” as of yet. They said that the revenue performance of the country was “slightly better” than the target, and said that the government had requested “several waivers” on the performance. The IMF is yet to take a stance. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt seeks IMF waivers amid flood-driven slippages,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
Rise in circular debt despite 50 per cent hike in power tariff
On 16 November, the Power Division told the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) that the circular debt amounted to nearly three trillion PKR, and said that there is an increase of PKR 185 billion as compared to the previous year, despite a 50 per cent hike in the power tariff. NEPRA’s chairman said that the quarterly tariff adjustment for the first quarter of the year would be PKR 2.18 as an additional charge, and said that this will be issued for the months of January to March. The power division said that the consumers would face “price shock” because of the additional charge, and said that circular debt keeps increasing because of lower recoveries and “higher than allowed system losses”. (“Circular debt keeps rising despite massive power tariff hike,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Pakistan and China decide to jointly increase calamity preparedness and response to climate change
On 16 November, a team of experts from the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) conducted a post-disaster assessment of Pakistan and decided to strengthen cooperation with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) for “technical exchanges”. CMA said that there has been consistent monitoring of the floods in Pakistan since June along with the PMD. The experts went to the most affected region of Sindh and collected data on the disaster preparedness of the province. The CMA also emphasised that the PMD has been working with them to collaborate on joint data on the weather forecast, flood conditions and monitoring of the country. (Amin Ahmed, “Pakistan, China agree to work together for disaster preparedness,” Dawn, 16 November 2022)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|