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Daily Briefs

Senate Committee passes the Corporal Punishment Bill


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Corporal Punishment Bill get passed by the Senate Committee
On 28 November, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior passed the Islamabad Capital Territory Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Bill 2022. It was moved by Senator Walid Iqbal and Sadia Abbasi. Last year, the Parliament passed the law, but the changes cited by the legal experts to its language compelled the movers to introduce a new bill. The bill aimed to ban corporal punishment on children by declaring it a crime. The committee passed the bill after a detailed deliberation. Senator Sadia said the bill suggests having a proper mechanism to take action against the teachers who punish children. She expressed hope for the bill to be passed in the National Assembly. (Ikram Junaidi, "Senate Body passes new bill banning corporal punishment in Islamabad," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

The delimitation issue raised by MQM-P gets mulled by PTI’s move
On 28 November, PPP and MQM-P planned their strategy to have Muttahida assure that it will stay in the coalition. The MQM-P raised the issue of unfair delimitation of local government constituencies in Karachi and Hyderabad.MQM convener said the party would continue to be a part of the government and both sides discussed the current political situation and local elections in the Sindh province. In a press meeting, the PPP said that the reason for the success of the coalition government was because of taking all the allies on board while making significant decisions adding that without amending the laws parties would not be a part of local elections. (Syed Irfan Raza, "MQM -P raises delimitation issue as PPP mulls response to PTI move," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Corporal Punishment Bill get passed by the Senate Committee
Sindh: Missing Children and vaccine refusal are the biggest challenges, says CM Murad
On 28 November, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah in the launch of the anti-polio drive said there has been a reduction of more than 60 per cent in refusals and missed children, which has not seen a single case of polio in 30 months. The week-long campaign target 2,771,089 children under the age of five from the districts of Karachi and Hyderabad. During the meeting, the CM spoke about the challenges Pakistan faced in the fight against polio and said the country had 20 cases of the disease since April 2022 all reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. An estimated 27000 polio workers are participating in the drive. (Faiza Ilyas, "Refusals missed children still a challenge in the fight against polio, says Sindh CM Murad," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

Punjab: Government launches web 3.0 for the first time in a province
On 28 November, the government launched a web 3.0 portal to become the first province to introduce the third generation of the world wide web. The portal was established to register web 3.0 contributors, including researchers, scientists and IT industry experts. Web 3.0 is the third iteration of the internet that combines an array of disrupted technologies such as blockchain, AI, augmented reality, virtual reality cloud edge etc. It runs on the AI-based analytics layer for data-driven insights. (Imran Gabol, "Punjab becomes first province to reach Web 3.0," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

Balochistan: Current law and order better than the past, says Mir Ziaullah
On 28 November, the Minister for Home Affairs Mir Ziaullah said in an interaction with media after visiting Quetta jail that law and order in the province are far better than in the past asserting that a few incidents could not make an image of overall situation as the administration and the security forces were taking measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. He said the government was taking steps to resolve the issues faced by jail employees and police, talking about the increase in their salaries and other facilities. (Saleem Shahid, "Balochistan more peaceful now than before: Langove," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

Sindh: Government takes steps to curb dacoit culture
On 28 November, at the onset of the assembly session, the opposition alleged that the police were busy providing the VVIP protocol to ministers and politicians. The allegation came up after the government suppressed dacoits in the forest along the banks of the Indus River. The assembly session was dominated by the outlawed law and order situation alleged by the opposition based on the recent killing of police officers. The opposition accused the government of spending more than PKR 120 billion on the law and order but failing to deal with the dacoit issue. Responding to the allegations, CM accepted that there has been trouble in the area and that required steps will be taken to curb the action against the government and the police. (Hafeez Tunio, "Sindh govt vows to wipe out dacoit culture," The Express Tribune, 29 November 2022)

ECONOMY
IMF is still analysing the fiscal position of flood-related expenditures, says Finance Ministry
On 28 November, the Finance Minister on the delay in ninth review said that the IMF is still analysing the fiscal position on the flood-related expenditures. This delay comes after Pakistan and the IMF arranged a meeting for more than a month in attempting to conclude the ninth review this month so that the next section of USD 1.18 billion could be approved by the IMF's executive board. Although, the policy-level discussions are yet to be finalised the finance ministry said that the IMF team is expected to visit Islamabad soon to complete the ninth review. (Khaleeq Kiani, "Govt struggles for the $1.18 bn tranche," Dawn, 29 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Minister of Petroleum flies to Russia to talk oil and gas
On 28 November, the State Minister for Petroleum and the petroleum secretary flew to Russia to discuss issues of oil and gas supplies. This comes as Pakistan faces challenges to meet domestic gas supplies and continues to face deficits in energy payments. The state minister refused to comment on the meeting, with the exact agenda for the discussions kept under close wraps. Sources reported that a “breakthrough” between Pakistan and Russia has been reached, with the two sides agreeing to engage in projects in the energy sector in December. (“Minister heads to Russia for oil and gas talks,” The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022)
 
Senior Pakistani delegation set to land in Afghanistan
On 29 November, a statement released by the Foreign Ministry said that a senior-level delegation from Pakistan led by the Minister of State is set to pay a visit to Afghanistan and that the delegation would hold a “political dialogue” with the Afghan government. The statement said that bilateral relations and areas of cooperation would be discussed, with the Minister of State confirming that Pakistan would continue its “commitment” to enhance peace and security in Afghanistan. This comes as tensions along the border of  Pakistan and Afghanistan increase and the visit would entail the progression of dialogue between the two sides. (Imran Danish, “High-Level Pakistani Delegation to Arrive in Kabul on Tuesday,” Tolo News, 28 November 2022)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
PTI and PPP leads in the first phase of local elections in the Muzaffarabad division
On 28 November, the election commission announced that the PTI and PPP took the lead in the first phase of local elections in "AJK '' securing 94 seats each.PML-N won 85 seats out of 454 seats.Independent candidates won 157 seats. "AJK" Chief Minister appreciated the peaceful conduct of the elections and termed it a victory of democracy. He expressed hope that his ruling party would repeat success in the second and third phases of election .(“PTI -PPP neck and neck in AJK lg polls,” The Express Tribune, 29 November 2022)

Special Notes

Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
Imran Khan alleged that “three criminals” are waiting to take a shot at him again. He said two were those he had previously identified; one who fired at him and the other leaders and the other who fired at the container, and the third one who was meant to silence the assassin so they could not reveal any details.
Imran claimed that this third shooter had actually killed a person who lost his life in the attack while trying to kill the would-be assassin.

Pakistan on Twitter

"On behalf of the people & government of Pakistan, I reiterate our unwavering support to the Palestinians on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The Day highlights the extreme sufferings Palestinians have endured under illegal Israeli occupation. ðŸ‡µðŸ‡° ðŸ‡µðŸ‡¸.”
-Shehbaz Sharif

"In the election of 2018, a rigged fake government was imposed on the country and political instability came in the country. There was revenge, it was necessary to free the nation from this fake power.”
-Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman

"PDM's position was that if the provincial assemblies are dissolved, they will hold elections, now they are saying that the assemblies should not be dissolved and the time should be fulfilled. Date of new election till January 30. Gate number 4 closed for PDM."
-Sheikh Rashid Ahmed

Also read...

Arifa Noor, A new beginning?
Dawn, 29 November 2022
Can the establishment make this transformation to a more modern economy, or at least identify how the ball can be set rolling? The answer does not lie in finding a person who promises miracles but in understanding what is hindering the process. Is it even possible to begin these conversations, which might prove a tad uncomfortable?

Dr Niaz Murtaza, Lesser evil?
Dawn, 29 November 2022
The PDM is dynastic, corrupt and inept. But a regional view shows such parties are the best that Saarc can currently produce given structural issues that are settled slowly. Comparatively newer parties like the PTI, BJP, TLP and the MQM often have these traits too but bigotry, violence and extremism are also features that define them and they end up ranking poorer than even South Asia’s low norms. So, the PTI fails on not only its claims but even the ‘lesser evil’ logic.

Editorial, Back to politics
Dawn, 29 November 2022
It would, obviously, have been ideal if Mr Khan had returned to parliament to negotiate a political compromise with the ruling parties, but in the absence of such a move, perhaps the second-tier leadership from both sides can find a way to protect each side’s interests without further upsetting the table.

Editorial, Sugar woes
Dawn, 29 November 2022
The entire sugar supply chain will have to be depoliticised, the market forces encumbered, and free import and export allowed if these periodic issues are to be handled without any cost to the government, industry, growers and consumers. Unless the sugar market is deregulated, every player will keep demanding their pound of flesh.

Editorial, Election delay
Dawn, 29 November 2022
With the PTI ready to act on its threat of dissolving the KP and Punjab assemblies, the ruling coalition may want to prevent further chaos and uncertainty by announcing a feasible timetable for fresh polls. As for lack of funds for the ECP, it is the state’s job to provide the required money in order to pave the way for polls.

Mosharraf Zaidi, No more doctrines
The News International, 29 November 2022
Let the armed forces be all that they can be: free of the toxicity of politics, free of people’s criticism, the very best of us all, above and beyond the humdrum of the daily new cycle. It is time to restore honour, dignity and reverence to the armed forces. The first step? Step away from politics and the public discourse.

Editorial, Dissolution questions
The News International, 29 November 2022
Provincial governments are a huge help before general elections, and the PTI will no doubt have thought of this consideration. This may be why some observers still hold that Imran’s dissolution threat may be just that – a threat – and may not materialize in the end. 

Dr Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, Good governance: remedy for terrorism
The Express Tribune, 29 November 2022
The terrorist network is still well intact and poses a formidable challenge. This threat can be countered by firm enforcement of law and promulgated policies (National Acton Plan), participatory role of the people, expeditious justice and fair and just administration. In a nutshell, Good governance is the remedy.

Editorial, Turkey and CPEC
The Express Tribune, 29 November 2022
Pakistan and Turkey are already bona fide members of ECO (formerly RCD), and Iran is in a 25-year-long $400 billion deal with China, Turkey’s formal inclusion will bring in dividends. The intention obviously is not power politics but to alleviate poverty by empowering the people

 


“Without parliamentarians (particularly in the KP provincial assembly) playing an assertive role, and in the absence of promised funds, autonomous local bodies, community engagement, a fully functional criminal justice system and improved socioeconomic indicators, reforming Fata will remain an elusive ideal.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on 'Decline of maliks'

 


ECP’s plea for more funds gets slow downed by the Finance Ministry,


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
ECP’s plea for more funds gets slow downed by the Finance Ministry
On 28 November, Dawn reported that ECP has asked for PKR 47.42 billion from the government in order to make preparations for the general election. The finance ministry is in a difficult position to get a supplementary grant in view of the IMF’s interactions on expenditure. In a case moved in September, the ECP has asked for a technical supplementary grant to the Finance Ministry for PKR 6.3 billion extra on top of the normal budget which the finance ministry has denied seeking form the ECC of the cabinet with a proper summary. According to a summary sent to the ECC, the ECP requested that the rationalised amount of PKR 47.42billion be approved upfront and be released in two phases  PKR 31.42billion  during the current fiscal year and another PKR 16 billion during the next fiscal year. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Ministry hesitant over ECP plea to release Rs47bn for elections,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

PPP would not remain silent over the murder, says FM Bilawal
On 28 November, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has condemned the brutal murder of two PPP leaders Malik Bakhrawan and Tariq Khan in Bajaur. He said the PPP would not remain silent over the murder of the party leaders and demanded to arrest of the culprits. He further added that the whole party with its workers were saddened by the incident. (“Bilawal condemns murder of PPP leaders in Bajaur,” The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022)

Nine out of 10 people breath polluted air exceeding the WHO guideline limits, says health experts
On 28 November, Dawn reported that public health experts who were addressing a workshop on the effects of smog warned that nine out of 10 people breathe air that exceeds the WHO guideline limits for pollutants.  Pakistan is one of the most affected who are in low and middle-income countries. Doctors Association President Dr Masood Sheikh, quoting a report from the WHO said, 4.2 million out of seven million people die of exposure to air pollution including smog. Continuous smog exposure increases the chances of premature death from respiratory ailments and cancers. Smog results in a higher incidence of allergies, coughing and irritation in the chest, eyes, throat and nose. Dr Rana Rafique said due to smog exposure, pregnant women can give birth to babies with birth defects and low birth weight. He said even exposure to smog particulate matter measuring as low as 5 µg can pose risks of extremely low birth weights at the time of delivery.(“ 7m die of air pollution per annum worldwide: WHO report,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

Azam Swati gets arrested again over a controversial tweet
On 27 November, PTI senator Azam Swati was taken into custody for the second time by the Federal Investigation Agency’s Cyber Crime Wing Islamabad for allegedly tweeting against senior military officials. He was later produced before a judicial magistrate, who handed him over to the FIA on a two-day physical remand. the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) prohibited the broadcast and rebroadcast of Swati’s speeches, news conferences and media coverage, including as a guest at a talk show, statements or tickers, on all satellite TV channels with immediate effect. The FIR states that the tweet was controversial and alleged against the government functionaries, including the COAS.The report maintained that the PTI leader had started a highly obnoxious campaign of intimidating tweets against state institutions, including the army chief with malignant intentions and ulterior motives”.(“Swati held again for tweets against military high-ups,” The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Protestors demand the opening of the terminal gate near the Pakistan – Iran Border
On 27 November, A shutter-down strike was observed and a protest rally was held against the prolonged closure of the Bazarcha terminal gate at Taftan, a town near the Pakistan-Iran border in the Chagai district. Markets and shops in the area remained closed following a call given by the local leadership of different political parties and traders. The protesters marched on various roads and staged a demonstration. They said the terminal was the main source of income for local traders and hundreds of labourers, but it has been closed by Pakistani authorities due to unknown reasons for two years. Further, the protestors urged the authorities to reopen the terminal and warned that if their demands were not met, they will block the main RCD Highway and completely shut the border. (Ali Raza Rind, “Protest in Taftan against closure of terminal gate,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)
 
Balochistan: Nine terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation
On 27 November, nine alleged terrorists were killed and three others injured in an intelligence-based operation.ISPR statement said the terrorists belonging to BLA(H) were involved in the Kohlu bazaar bombing, which claimed two lives and left 19 others wounded on  30 September. According to intelligence reports, terrorists were planning to launch attacks in Kohlu, Kahan and Mawad areas of the district, security forces launched an operation against them in the mountainous area.(“ Nine terrorists killed, three held in Kohlu, says ISPR,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan receives 46 modern coaches from China
On 28 November, Dawn reported that Pakistan Railways (PR) has received the consignment of 46 high-speed modern coaches from China. PR is set to soon start manufacturing 184 similar coaches at its carriage factory in Islamabad in association with Chinese engineers under the technology-transfer component of the 230 coaches’ purchase contract. The PR officers concerned would carry out a test run of the coaches on the Main Line-1 (ML-1) starting from Karachi to Peshawar via Lahore and Rawalpindi. After completion of the test run, the commercial use of these coaches would begin by using them for various express passenger trains. Modern train coaches can run at a speed of 160km per hour. The PR teams, under the technology transfer agreement, visited China in August during which they inspected prototypes of coaches and high-capacity wagons. (Shazia Hasan, “Railway gets 46 modern coaches from China,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

ON PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Peaceful first phase LG elections held in Muzaffarabad division.
On 27 November, the ruling PTI in “AJK” appeared to have lost with PML-N and PPP in Muzaffarabad district in the first phase of LG elections. The elections were held in a peaceful atmosphere. Though less than 5,000 police personnel could be spared to maintain law and order at 1,323 polling stations across the division, the army had also given signals that it could come in aid of the civilian administration in the event of hostilities in any area, which had also significantly contributed to the maintenance of order. Unconfirmed and unverified results that started pouring in since evening and continued till late night suggested that 12 seats were bagged by PML-N, 10 by PTI, and seven each by PPP and independents.(Tariq Naqash, “PTI, rivals in close fight as AJK votes in local polls,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

ON MILITARY
General Sahir Shamshad Mirza takes charge as the new CJCSC of the country
On 27 November, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza assumed the charge as Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) at the Joint Staff Headquarters. According to ISPR, a large number of serving and retired officers from tri-services, the ceremony was also attended by the former chairmen of JCSC. General Mirza reviewed the guard of honour and march-past.(“ Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza assumes charge as CJCSC,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

ECONOMY
PSE saw a plunge of 800 points over the policy rate hike
On 28 November, the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s benchmark KSE-100 index plunged over 800 points over the hike in the policy rate issued by the SBP. The index saw a sharp slump right after the opening bell, dropping more than 600 points to 42,282.48 in the first 30 minutes of trading. Head of Research at Intermarket Securities, Raza Jafri, said the market had opened sharply negative as it factored in higher interest rates and continued uncertainty on the political front after Imran Khan’s threat to dissolve the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies. The central bank, in a statement, issued said that the decision reflects the Monetary Policy Committee’s view that inflationary pressures have proven to be stronger and more persistent than expected. (“ PSX takes a hammering after SBP's sudden interest rate hike to highest since 1999,” The News International, 28 November 2022; “PSX reacts to surprise rate hike, plunges over 800 points,” Dawn, 28 November 2022)

Special Notes

Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
Imran Khan alleged that “three criminals” are waiting to take a shot at him again. He said two were those he had previously identified; one who fired at him and the other leaders and the other who fired at the container, and the third one who was meant to silence the assassin so they could not reveal any details.
Imran claimed that this third shooter had actually killed a person who lost his life in the attack while trying to kill the would-be assassin.

Pakistan on Twitter

"Organizations should correct the mistake of carrying the burden of Asif Zardari and Nawaz Sharif's politics as soon as possible. The politics of Zardari and Nawaz Sharif have reached the end of their physical life. It is getting expensive, don't be the villain of the people and stand with the people.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"The @UN report on gender based violence reveals chilling data: that every 11 minutes a woman or girl is killed by a family member or intimate partner. What is worse is that these statistics are just the tip of the iceberg. We all need to do more in our countries,communities..”
-Sherry Rehman

"Article 14 of the constitution declares "human dignity to be sacred"; So, my question to the honorable judges of the Supreme Court is whether the application of this article of the Constitution is limited only to the powerful authorities of the state, because for all others, even the basic right like human dignity is not protected?."
-Imran Khan

Also read...

Maleeha Lodhi, Hype and reality
Dawn, 28 November 2022
The combination of demographics, the education gap and a stagnant economy risks social instability in the years to come. These fundamental issues, among others, will determine Pakistan’s fate and fortunes. It is the choices our political leaders make in the months and years ahead that will decide the country’s destiny — not who has been appointed army chief.

Umair Javed, Campus and tarmac
Dawn, 28 November 2022
In the middle of it is the disregard for the natural environment and perhaps even more egregiously for a space of learning and the people who belong to it. For a country prone to lamenting its developmental failures and then tracing these failures to an ‘absence of education’, the dissonance here is remarkable.

Editorial, 1971 in retrospect
Dawn, 28 November 2022
Unfortunately, we as a nation have yet to come to terms with the bitter truths of 1971. For example, the Hamoodur Rahman Commission Report has never officially been released, and no one has been held responsible for the loss of the eastern wing. For there to be full closure, we need to make peace with the truth.

Editorial, Gender-based violence
Dawn, 28 November 2022
Sexual harassment of women at the workplace is a more insidious form of gender-based violence, but again, patriarchal notions about the public space belonging to men, with women merely interlopers, often stymies implementation of the law against it. It is high time the state discards outmoded norms that violate the rights of one-half of the population.

Khalid Bhatti, The PPP at 55
The News International, 28 November 2022
The party leadership needs to realize that the PPP was formed to wage the struggle against the status quo; the current rightwing politics and policies are causing damage to the party. The party needs to go back to its basic ideas and principles. The slogans of ‘Roti, Kapra and Makaan still resonate with people. Democracy is our politics. Socialism is our economy. ‘Islam is our religion’ and ‘power lies with people. This is all still very relevant.

Mustafa Tariq Wynne, When the young are apolitical
The News International, 28 November 2022
Our political parties need to up the ante and seriously introspect on this matter which concerns the future of democracy in Pakistan. They must update their manifestos, reorganize and restructure their party structures to cater to the young and also empower them not just economically but also politically – or face irrelevance by the juggernaut of the youth.
 
Editorial, Devolution time
The News International, 28 November 2022
The process of local government elections are essential to people in any democracy, giving them much greater right to make decisions about their lives. Local bodies also allow people more direct control over governance. This perhaps is the reason why governments at the provincial level in particular have been traditionally reluctant to conduct LG polls. This must change now; democracy without devolution remains a farce.

Editorial, Human rights courts
The News International, 28 November 2022
Provincial governments need to take proactive measures in this direction and should not wait for their high courts to direct them in this matter. Promotion and protection of human rights is a primary responsibility of federal and provincial governments. The constitution lays down our fundamental human rights – protecting us from their violation is the job of the state.

Kamran Yousaf, New army chief — and the challenges
The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022
Gen Asim has a reputation of being a professional solider and is thought to be one of the generals who is averse to the military’s political role. The government hopes that he will now take steps to make it a reality. The change of command in the army has, in the past, reignited hopes of change.

Editorial, Threatening currency crisis
The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022
Pakistan has already tapped most of the sources of last-minute relief that other at-risk countries are approaching one by one — we are already receiving an IMF loan, the Saudis and others have given us temporary deposits to shore up our reserves, and the State Bank of Pakistan has intervened several times. Still, we remain on the precipice.

Editorial, Elusive 5G services
The Express Tribune, 28 November 2022
Last month, we found out that the launch of 5G technology in Pakistan had been delayed till June 2023 due to political change in the country…A comprehensive gap analysis must be formulated to ascertain what technology is required and in what region to strengthen infrastructural foundation, on the basis of which substantial funds can be sought.

 


“Pakistan has seen many ups and downs and therefore this current impasse will eventually go away too. However, every crisis increasingly takes away the hope that Pakistanis have in a prosperous future for the country and for their children.” 

-An opinion in The News International on ‘What do the people think?

 

 


Railways incur a deficit of 51 per cent gap in revenue and expenditure


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Railways incur a deficit of 51 per cent gap in revenue and expenditure
On 25 November, the National Assembly was informed that Pakistan Railways is facing a deficit in terms of the gap formed between the expenditure and revenue. A decrease of 51 per cent was recorded in the tenure of the current government. The Minister of Railways Khwaja Saad Rafique said that the ministry is taking steps to ensure lessen the gap and strengthen the revenue. He also cited the expenditure on regular salaries of approximately 64,000 employees as one of the causes. In addition, he said that approximately PKR 30 billion was estimated to be spent on High-Speed Diesel (HSD) during the current financial year.  Other expenditures, including repair and maintenance of locomotives, passenger carriages, wagons and service, have also exceeded the resources. He added that though resources have been exceeding, train punctuality has been improved from 63 per cent to 80 per cent. (“PR fails to tighten its belt as losses pile up,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022)

Petition to ban Joyland dismissed by SHC
On 26 November, Dawn reported that the Sindh High Court ruled that it is not the job of the judiciary to morally police the public by deciding what should be or should not be viewed by them as unnecessary censorship suffocates a society and stifles its creativity and growth. The order based on the petition seeking a ban on the film Joyland said, “Looking to the matter at hand, we are confident that Islam, being the great global religion that it is, is strong enough to withstand a cinematic work portraying a purely fictional account of a relationship humanizing a transgender character, and are equally sanguine that our society is not so weak as to crumble as a consequence.” It said that it was not the function of the Court under Article 199 to make a moral judgment so as to curtail the freedom of speech and thus dismissed the petition. (Naeem Sahoutara, “Unnecessary censorship suffocates society, stifles creativity, rules SHC,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Police stations attacked by gangs of criminals against the killing of a terrorist
On 25 November, different gangs of criminals united under the banned militant group and threatened to attack six police stations in Rojhan tehsil of Rajanpur district, a couple of days after a most-wanted criminal was killed in a police operation. The police officials said they are preparing a strategy to give a response. On 23 November, fierce clashes were held where the criminals fired rocket launchers, mortars and other weapons at the poorly equipped police force for more than five hours. At least 12 others, including five policemen, were injured in the fighting and the heavily armed criminals left several bullet-proof vehicles riddled with bullets. Following an emergency call, additional police force reached the spot and another round of clashes ensued. Police forced the attackers to retreat and managed to rescue the ‘trapped’ colleagues amid fierce resistance. The official said over 1,000 police personnel were participating in the large-scale operation launched in the troubled and relatively inaccessible areas of Rajanpur. (“Gangs unite under banned group to avenge the killing of ‘terrorist’,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

Balochistan: Additional funds for safe city development project get rejected by cabinet
On 24 November the cabinet refused to release more funds for the ongoing Quetta Safe City project in a meeting which took place to discuss several issues ranging from progress on implementing ongoing development projects and admissions to medical and dental colleges. The cabinet meeting presided over by the Chief Minister directed officials to have all the necessary details including the PC-I, a document that covers almost all aspects of a project of all new development schemes to avoid the need for revisions. The directions came after some proposals were presented to the cabinet for revising the cost of development projects. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan cabinet refuses more funds for Quetta Safe City project,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

Sindh: Delimitation and security are seen as the major problem to the polls, says Governor
On 25 November, Sindh Governor while talking to the press said he was doubtful of the plan saying concerns over delimitation and security were the biggest hurdles in holding the much-delayed exercise. The statement came after the ECP announced 15 January as the new date for holding elections in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions. He said being the representative of the federation he spoke on behalf of all the parties which expressed reservations about the local government elections. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Security, delimitation biggest hurdle in way of LG polls, says Sindh governor,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

JUDICIARY
Bar association calls for effective accountability of judiciary on recent events
On 25 November, members of two bar associations called for effective accountability of the judiciary and registration of FIR on Arshad Sharif’s murder and Imran Khan’s assassination attempt. The demands were made through a joint resolution issued by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) and Islamabad Bar Association (IBA) after a seminar the two bodies had organized on the ‘Rule of Law’. The resolution demanded that the Supreme Judicial Council be made active and operational so that accountability of all privileged institutions could be done in a transparent manner. The two organizations emphasized that there should be “no abuse of power” by any privileged institution, lawmakers, leaders, judges, or bureaucracy.  They called for action against “the persons responsible for the abuse of power” and those who had violated civil rights. (Malik Asad, “Legal fraternity seeks ‘effective accountability’ of judiciary,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Traders and Industry reject SBP’s hike in the policy rate
On 25 November, the traders and industrial leaders rejected the State Bank of Pakistan’s move to raise its policy rate by 100 basis points saying it would negatively affect the cost of doing business besides hitting exports hard. Already struggling for their survival amid multiple economic challenges, mainly massive rupee-dollar fluctuation and severe energy shortages, the leaders said the business community has rejected a higher-interest rate of 16 per cent and it cannot be termed as a wise decision. They said Pakistan has the highest interest rate compared to Malaysia’s 2.25 per cent, China’s 3.85per cent, India’s 4.5per cent and Bangladesh’s 5.5per cent. The leaders feared inflationary pressure on the already stressed consumers as the manufacturers would pass on the burden of costly loaning from the banks to the consumers by raising the prices of food items. (Amir Shafaat Khan, “Surprise policy rate hike shocks to trade and industry,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

16 per cent hike seen in the policy rate of SBP to curb inflation
On 25 November, the State Bank of Pakistan hiked the policy rate by 100 base points, a two-decade high at 16 per cent to curb the elevated inflation reading and achieve "higher growth on a more sustainable basis.” Adding to the SBP’s concerns over the spike in inflation, Topline Securities CEO Mohammad Sohail said in a short commentary that IMF talks for the next tranche were underway and delayed which might have also compelled the monetary policy committee (MPC) to take the step of jacking up the rate to 16 per cent to deal with the situation. (Salman Siddiqui, “SBP hikes key policy rate at a two-decade high of 16%,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022)

Additional reserves arranged for Sukuk payment, says SBP governor
On 25 November, SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad said Pakistan arranged additional foreign currency reserves to make the forthcoming repayment of USD one billion against the maturing of a five-year Sukuk on 5 December. Ahmad was quoted as saying at an analyst briefing on the latest monetary policy statement that the country’s foreign exchange reserves would remain immune to the impact of the payment of the debt instrument and would not take any hit. The continuous depletion of the reserves made global investors anxious about their receivables. Accordingly, the Sukuk yield had spiked much over 150 per cent, while the risk of default on repayment measured through five-year currency default risk (CDS) hit a record high of 123 per cent. (Salman Siddiqui, “SBP chief assures Sukuk repayment on schedule,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Prime Minister stressed transforming bilateral ties to a strategic partnership with Turkiye
On 25 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need for Pakistan and Turkiye to transform their bilateral ties into a strategic partnership, inviting Ankara to join the  CPEC for regional prosperity. In a joint news conference, he said Pakistan has been enjoying the benefits of CPEC under the BRI initiative of XI Jinping. He added that the same cooperation is among China, Pakistan and Turkiye. The prime minister remarked that he would be “happy” to discuss the matter with the Chinese leadership if Turkiye moved ahead with the idea of joining the CPEC. He mentioned that in their meeting they underscored the effective implementation of the trade and goods agreement signed in August this year. (“PM seeks strategic partnership with Turkiye,” The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022)

 ON PAKISTAN OCCUPIED INDIA
 The first phase of Local elections in Muzaffarabad to be held on 27 November
 On 25 November, officials announced that arrangements were made to conduct the first phase of local elections in the Muzaffarabad division of “AJK” on 27 November. The conducting of local polls in three phases is based on the unavailability of additional security personnel. Commissioner Masood Rehman said local people and officials comprise the peace and coordination committee to maintain peace during the polling. The 1323 polling stations comprise 7785 polling staff in total for election procedures. (“All set for local govt polls in AJK tomorrow,” Dawn, 26 November 2022)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
The PTI's march is to resume from Rawalpindi on 26 November. PTI caravans from different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa plan to gather on the Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway before leaving for Rawalpindi.

Who said what?
Fawad Chaudhry claimed that a "sea of people" was heading towards Rawalpindi in favour of a demand for early elections in the country. He said, "The government must acknowledge the verdict of the masses and announce the date for the elections."

Other developments 
The police in a letter to Imran Khan requested the PTI leadership to share security measures for Imran Khan at the rally. Additionally, they advised the PTI leadership to ensure the implementation of the directives for VIP security provision for Khan and advised Imran Khan to wear a bulletproof jacket and not to exit his vehicle on his way to the rally's venue.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
The joint investigation team (JIT) probing into the attack has stopped investigations after the Federal Service Tribunal (FST) reinstated the suspension order of the body’s head, Lahore police chief Ghulam Mahmood Dogar.

The crime scene has been barricaded further as local authorities make space for commercial plazas and a bank branch to carry out their activities. 

On 23 November, The Express Tribune reported that Naveed Ahma, the suspect arrested for opening fire at Imran Khan stuck to his initial statement while being interrogated thrice by the joint investigation team (JIT). According to its source, the interrogators of the JIT Naveed went his initial statement that he had acted alone and some speeches of Imran hurt his religious sentiments despite the JIT coming down harsh on his. 
Pakistan on Twitter
"The sea of people is moving towards Rawalpindi, today millions of people will gather in Rawalpindi in support of the demand for new elections, the government should submit to the decision of the people and announce new elections, stability in Pakistan depends on general elections and economic stability is political. It is connected with stability.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"In addition to reviewing the whole spectrum of bilateral relations, President Erdogan & I discussed ways and means to achieve the target of increasing trade volume to $5 billion in 3 years. We vowed to ensure effective implementation of Trade in Goods Agreement in this regard.”
-Shehbaz Sharif

"Our future depends only on whether we take 5 years or 10 years to increase our exports from $32b to $100b. The first option is a recipe for success and the second option is a recipe for disaster. Our national narrative and debate revolve around this central point. The first option is not possible without peace, stability and consensus."
-Ahsan Iqbal
Also read...
Pervez Hoodbhoy, Mr Prime Minister — listen
Dawn, 26 November 2022
Shall rule of law prevail? Will public property be protected? Can Pakistan’s land mafias be kept in check? In the haste for windfall profits, land grabbers inside and outside the government connive to increase their personal wealth at the expense of public good. PM Shehbaz Sharif needs to review his decision which, if implemented, will increase the nation’s despondency.

Editorial, March in Pindi
Dawn, 26 November 2022
After the chief’s appointment closed without incident, there is a chance for political temperatures to be brought down. To keep that hope alive, it is critical that the government handle the arrival of PTI marchers at its gates with great care.

Editorial, Tough IMF position
Dawn, 26 November 2022
If the world’s lacklustre response to the UN’s repeated calls for funds to help Pakistanis affected by the floods, as well as the unusually harsh stance taken by the Fund, are any guide, this money is unlikely to materialise. Even if the world chooses to help us, it will not do so unless we first decide to clean up our messy house.

Editorial, The youth vote
Dawn, 26 November 2022
Equally important is the fact that parties need to introduce youth-friendly policies when in power, to remove the sense of disillusionment that has enveloped younger Pakistanis. A general election is on the horizon and parties need to seriously consider how to attract the young voter.

Editorial, Harsh tightening
The News International, 26 November 2022
The SBP is sticking to its forecast of 2 per cent GDP growth for now, but it is difficult to see how the current policy rate hike can fail to dent economic growth. Considering that 2 per cent growth is effectively contraction for a population growing at around 3 per cent, they may even consider a qualitative easing in the wake of this harsh monetary tightening to keep the economy on a growth trajectory.

Editorial, Frightened investors
The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022
While the crashing value of the rupee may be used by some people to falsely soften the reduction in investment by presenting the numbers in rupee terms, even there, a simple inflation adjustment would bring us back to square one. The reality is that, with increasing international concern over Pakistan’s default risk and slowed economic growth due to the floods and other issues, there is little hope that FDI will rebound anytime soon.
 
Nasim Zehra, A successful conclusion
The News International, 26 November 2022
It would be the opposite if the country’s business of state ran according to the constitution; the three year term of the army chief would mean Pakistan would have had far more army chiefs and fewer prime ministers. But, either via grabbing power through dictatorship or by securing extensions from weak and blundering prime ministers, this powerful position ends up running anywhere between six and ten years.

Editorial, Out-of-school children
The Express Tribune, 26 November 2022
The real dilemma is that during a financial crunch, a family will always prefer having their child earn money to put food on the table rather than letting him receive an education even for free. Curbing inflation, providing employment opportunities for parents and ensuring a healthy school environment are as important as providing educational incentives.
 
 


“Eight billion is a landmark for the world’s population. Let it also be a landmark for Pakistan’s history, as the year we decided we would switch from producing droves of Pakistanis searching for jobs the world over, to a strong nation of educated, healthy and vibrant citizens.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Pakistan and the 8 billion planet

 

 


Foreign exchange reserves plummeting to USD 7.8 billion


Photo: Dawn



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)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
As the PTI’s march resumes on 29 November, caravans of PTI Sindh chapter have left from Karachi to join the party’s long march, which is on its way to Rawalpindi. Meanwhile, Asad Umar held a meeting on the preparation and security arrangements for the party’s upcoming march to Rawalpindi.

Who said what?
PTI Senator Faisal Javed said that Imran Khan will address the gathering at Rawalpindi on 26 November. He said, “Imran will address the rally at 1pm. We invite families to the public meeting and we laud their massive support for the PTI.”

Other developments 
The deputy commissioner of Rawalpindi has given the PTI a conditional permit for their long march in the city. According to the 56-point notification, the PTI has been reminded that anti-state slogans are strictly prohibited while delivering a speech against "constitutional offices, armed forces and the judiciary" is also not allowed during the rally. The PTI was asked the PTI to arrange "video recording of the whole event and the same should be provided unedited to the police after the termination of the public gathering." Additionally, the PTI was told to clear the area on the night of 26 November ahead of the arrival of the England team to Rawalpindi on 27 November. It also warned of legal proceedings in case of a violation of any of the prescribed guidelines.

Ahead of the PTI’s long march, the district administration of Islamabad issued a notice banning all rallies, political gatherings and processions across the province including the Red Zone under Section 144 of the criminal procedure code. The administration has imposed the ban for a period of two months ahead of the long march which could "disrupt peace and tranquillity."

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court issued notices to the federal and provincial governments on a petition challenging the possible use of tear gas by the law-enforcement agencies (LEAs) at the participants of PTI’s rally in Rawalpindi.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
The crime scene has been barricaded further as local authorities make space for commercial plazas and a bank branch to carry out their activities. 

On 23 November, The Express Tribune reported that Naveed Ahma, the suspect arrested for opening fire at Imran Khan stuck to his initial statement while being interrogated thrice by the joint investigation team (JIT). According to its source, the interrogators of the JIT Naveed went his initial statement that he had acted alone and some speeches of Imran hurt his religious sentiments despite the JIT coming down harsh on his. 
 

Pakistan on Twitter

"Asif Zardari cannot go out in Sindh, what is his status in Punjab, this time the People's Party will be wiped out in the rural areas of Sindh and the people of Sindh will get political rights, the dacoits will be eliminated and the mafia will reach its end. God willing.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"Violence against women in any form is a violation of human rights & dignity. A society can't claim to be civilized leave alone being democratic if it condones violence under any pretext. On this Day today, let us all pledge to play our part to put an end to such practices.”
-Shehbaz Sharif

"I am coming out injured only for the sake of my nation, the nation reached Rawalpindi anyway. Chairman Imran Khan."
-PTI

Also read...

Editorial, Triumph of merit and law
The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022
It was a moment of realisation of merit. For the first time in many decades in the country, the Army Chief has been named on the basis of seniority. There wasn’t any pick and choose this time around, as several times in the past… But the fact that serenity and rule of law has prevailed — and that too with unanimous political endorsement — is one of the biggest achievements after months of turmoil and abject institutional degeneration.

Editorial, Hard reset
Dawn, 25 November 2022
What should have been a routine matter in simpler times had this year become a vortex that seemingly sucked up the entire nation in intrigue. It is a matter of great relief that we can now move on from it without further ado…Even well-meaning interventions can quickly turn into nightmares, as experiences from recent years show. The armed forces would be wise to focus on keeping Pakistan internally and externally secure.

Editorial, New chief
The News International, 25 November 2022
If democracy is really what political parties intend to uphold, then do it without being propped up by apolitical forces. The new chief takes over a country badly in need of healing. Outgoing army chief General Bajwa has clearly said that the military will not play any political role now. It is now on the institution to ensure this is upheld as policy. Let this be the new normal.

Raoof Hasan, The change of command
The News International, 25 November 2022
It is a must if Pakistan is to move further on the road to asserting its freedom as also its prerogative to formulate policies which suit its economic and strategic interests. The military must be disentangled from the political web so that it remains poised to play its fundamental role of securing the state.

Editorial, Order of precedence
Dawn, 25 November 2022
Until we ourselves change our power structure, foreign actors will continue to reach out to GHQ for all important decisions. It is, therefore, up to the political leadership, as well as the incoming army chief, to ensure civilian supremacy in all spheres of governance.

Usama Khilji, Negotiating joy and dignity
Dawn, 25 November 2022
Is the state so weak that criticism of a film will lead to such banal wastage of taxpayers’ resources just to placate the holders of misinformed ideals? The dignity of subjects in films that are under attack, the dignity of filmmakers, and the dignity of the viewers of the films must be respected and upheld in accordance with the values the Constitution clearly spells out.

Editorial, Politicised police
Dawn, 25 November 2022
The Sindh Police is notoriously politicised, with some senior cops even being appointed on the say-so of powerful politicians’ cronies…The police are custodians of the law, not a handmaiden of the elite, and one hopes the Supreme Court’s verdict in this case will force a change of approach.

Editorial, Karachi, Hyderabad LG elections
The Express Tribune, 25 November 2022
While the federal government also got orders from the ECP to ensure that law enforcement agencies under its control depute enough staff to supplement Sindh’s own security officials, there have already been suggestions that The PTI’s agitation in Punjab and Islamabad may create a situation where Islamabad has to refuse orders to assist, creating a new legal imbroglio.

 


“Authoritarianism or despotism and other similar brands of social postulations and political organisation take their incipience in the bosom of such presumed infallibility that is lethally destructive in its communal and social consequences, repressive and restrictive of all individual or social freedoms and human rights.” 

-An opinion in The Express Tribune on ‘Averred infallibility imperils democracy

 


ECP highlighting difficulty in raising election fund requests was tabled before theECC


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
ECP’s difficulty in raising election fund requests was tabled before the Economic coordination committee
On 24 November, The Express Tribune reported that the ECP has requested PKR 18 billion from the government as it has been facing difficulties in raising funds for the upcoming general elections. The finalizing of the request has been in process of the Economic coordination committee of the cabinet. The ECP has demanded Rs47 billion from the government for the next general elections. Of this amount, Rs27 billion will be received in the current financial year. The commission will receive the remaining Rs20 billion in the next fiscal year. The final stages of elections are going on with the procurement of materials and training of the election staff. (“ECP wants Rs18b for emergency needs,” The Express Tribune, 24 November 2022)

ECP adjourns prohibited funding case hearing 
On 23 November, the ECP adjourned the hearing of PTI’s prohibited funding case and gave the party, time till 13 December to submit its reply to the commission’s show cause notice regarding confiscation. The decision was based on the counsel’s request for the hearing to be adjourned further. The chief election commissioner remarked that the initial hearing of this case was held on 23 August, adding that the matter was over and no further investigation was required. The hearing was postponed and delisted from the ECP list prior to the recent developments. (“PTI gets a breather in funding case,” The Express Tribune, 24 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Province will not be bankrupted, says Chief Minister
On 23 November, Chief Minister Mahmood Khan addressing the Shangla University inauguration said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa won’t go bankrupt and would make all the due payments. He said the centre hadn’t pay the province Rs65 billion net hydel profit and other dues, while the National Finance Commission Award had also not been announced for months. Mr Mahmood warned that if the centre didn’t clear dues, members of the provincial government would stage a sit-in outside the National Assembly. (“KP not at risk of bankruptcy, claims KP chief minister,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Balochistan: Committee was constituted for addressing the grievances of students
On 23 November, a commission was constituted in accordance with the Islamabad High Court order to investigate the grievances of Baloch students. The convener highlighted the significance of a political solution over a military approach while expressing the resolve the commission would make a sincere endeavour to prepare and submit a comprehensive report covering the issue from all dimensions and suggesting a way forward. They were of the unanimous view that findings being made part of the report should reflect a detailed analytical narration of facts in conformity with the ground realities, whereas the recommendations, so formulated, must stimulate cogent action on part of the federal government, provincial governments, security agencies and all other stakeholders towards the solution of the issue. The convener also assured the members that the opinions of all sides, including security agencies, would be incorporated in the report. The commission then decided to invite representatives of media and human rights activists to its next meeting. (Kashif Abbasi, “Panel takes up Baloch students’ grievances,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Punjab: Session court indicts 16 suspects in TikToker assault case 
On 23 November, a session’s court found 16 suspects in the case of assault on TikToker Ayesha Akram at Minar-i-Pakistan last year. Sessions Judge Ishrat Abbas directed the prosecution to produce its witnesses on the next hearing as all the suspects pleaded not guilty and decided to face the trial.The FIR includes Sections 354-A (assault or use of criminal force against a woman and stripping her of her clothes), 382 (theft after preparation made for causing death, hurt or restraint in order to commit the theft), 147 (rioting) and 149 (unlawful assembly) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). The trial was based on 14 August 2021, where the police had registered the FIR against 400 unidentified persons for assaulting the TikToker, and molesting and stripping her. (“ 16 indicted in TikToker assault case,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Balochistan: Reko Diq mining site did not contain rare-earth elements or strategic minerals, says study
On 23 November the Supreme Court was informed that the Reko Diq mining site did not contain rare-earth elements or strategic minerals other than copper and gold.  The government would still benefit from them if they were ever found out. The information was based on year-long in-depth studies. The proposed agreement on the reconstitution of the mining project still contained detailed provisions suggesting how to sell and distribute those minerals (Nasir Iqbal, “Reko Diq contains no strategic mineral other than gold and copper, SC told,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Balochistan: Province needs resources to become equal with other provinces, says Assembly speaker
On 22 November, Assembly speaker Jan Mohammad Jamali speaking at a conference said the province needs powers and resources for fast development and to come on par with other provinces. Mr Jamali urged experts and intellectuals from other provinces to help and guide Balochistan in formulating policies that could spur development in the province. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan needs resources for progress, says Jan Mohammad Jamali,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Bilateral trade to be enhanced between Afghan and Pakistan
On 23 November, during the meeting of the business community with Afghan diplomats the Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir and the Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) agreed to make coordinated efforts to address the issues impeding enhanced trade between the two neighbouring countries. The Afghan consulate officials present in the meeting complained about the presence of unregistered points near the Torkham border, subjecting Afghan trucks to unwarranted checking, harassment of Afghan drivers, non-implementation of FBR directives for reloading of Afghan transit goods in local containers, and charging them heavy amounts as detention fees. The participants pointed out that the volume of Pak-Afghan trade was very low at present, and agreed on developing a roadmap for improving the bilateral trade volume. They stressed the Pakistani government to provide opportunities for the promotion of trade between both countries. (“Afghan envoy, traders vow to improve bilateral trade,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Pakistan urges the international community to take action against Islamophobia worldwide
On 23 November, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar while addressing the ninth global forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, stressed the importance of Pakistan’s perspective and concerns about the growing problem of religious intolerance, discrimination, Islamophobia and violence worldwide. Khar urged the international community and the UN to formulate an action plan to meaningfully address the insidious phenomenon of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred. She particularly drew the attention of the delegates towards the state-driven discrimination, hostility and phobia directed against Muslims and Islam, and the ensuing climate of impunity for such heinous acts. (“Pakistan urges global action on Islamophobia,” The Express Tribune, 24 November 2022)

JUDICIARY
JCP’s recommendation on IHC judge gets approval from Parliamentary committee
On 23 November, Parliamentary Committee on Judges Appointment approved recommendations of the JCP  for the confirmation of three judges of the Islamabad High Court -Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, Justice Arbab Mohammad Tahir and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz.According to Dawn, SC chief justice was  asked to convey to the IHC chief justice to “monitor and mentor” the judge in order to ensure that her behaviour with the other lawyers was courteous. A member of the JCP explained the reality of Pakistani society and pointed out that unlike male judges, female judges could not even smile facing lawyers and were required to be firm instead. Former IHC chief justice Athar Minallah shortlisted the judges for the IHC.Upon his recommendations, the JCP proposed their confirmation as a confirmed judge of the high court. (Malik Asad, “Parliamentary body gives nod to JCP’s proposed judges for IHC,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Standing Committee Chairman inquired from FBR on electricity bill tax on receiving complaints
On 23 November, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenues was informed that the effective rate of taxation on electricity bills ranged between 40 and 58 per cent per unit on commercial connections and 29 per cent on domestic consumers. The chairman inquired from FBR officials about the exact quantum of taxes being charged on electricity bills. He said they were receiving rampant complaints with regard to heavy taxation on power bills. The FBR officials replied that there were various taxes on electricity bills, including 17 per cent GST. Senators belonging to different political parties stated that in the presence of heavy taxation, there should be an element of facilitation for having one window tax policy. (“Taxes on power bills range between 40-58pc, Senate panel told,” The News International, 24 November 2022)

ON INDIA
ISPR replies to the Indian remarks on taking control of parts of "AJK" as a ‘delusional mindset ‘
On 24 November, the ISPR alleged that a top Indian military official’s statement about taking control of parts of "AJK" was the Indian army’s "delusional mindset." The tweet from ISPR said, “The unwarranted statement of a high-ranking Indian army officer concerning AJK is an apt manifestation of Indian armed forces’ delusional mindset and showcases the vivid imprint of domestic political showboating on Indian military thought.” The ISPR further said, “The fallacious remarks and unfounded allegations of so-called ‘launch-pads’ and ‘terrorists’ are an attempt to divert attention from the Indian army’s repressive use of force and gross human rights violations against innocent, unarmed Kashmiris striving for their right of self-determination, upheld by international law and enshrined in UN Security Council resolutions.” (“‘Delusional mindset’: ISPR hits back at Indian army official for remarks about taking control of parts of AJK,” Dawn, 24 November 2022)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
For now, the march is suspended in Rawat.
 
Who said what?
PTI Senator Faisal Javed said that Imran Khan will address the gathering at Rawalpindi on 26 November. He said, “Imran will address the rally at 1pm. We invite families to the public meeting and we laud their massive support for the PTI.”

Other developments 
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice termed the PTI’s petition seeking permission for a public gathering in Islamabad and landing Imran Khan’s helicopter at Parade Ground as ‘premature.’ Further, the Chief Justice asked the PTI to reach out to the district administration for a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the march as the high court could neither direct them to issue NOC nor order them to allow the taking off and landing of the helicopter at Parade Ground.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry has requested the PTI postpone its public gathering as it warned of threat of a terrorist attack by militant groups or “radicalised youth.” The letter from the ministry said, “the PTI leadership may consider the possibility of postponing public gatherings like the one planned in Rawalpindi on Nov 26 to avoid any untoward incident,” adding, “Anti-state elements like Al Qaeda/Daesh, TTP, and radicalised youth of the TLP can take advantage of soft targets like public gatherings to destabilise the country through suicide attacks, IEDs (improvised explosive devise) etc.” Further, the ministry said that said it had been “sharing alerts on the threats to the life” of Imran Khan from “anti-state elements.”

Additionally, the ministry has also sent a risk assessment report regarding the long march to the chief secretaries of all four provinces carrying a warning of the possibility of “large-scale bombings, IED (improvised explosive device).”
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 23 November, The Express Tribune reported that Naveed Ahma, the suspect arrested for opening fire at Imran Khan stuck to his initial statement while being interrogated thrice by the joint investigation team (JIT). According to its source, the interrogators of the JIT Naveed went his initial statement that he had acted alone and some speeches of Imran hurt his religious sentiments despite the JIT coming down harsh on his. 
Pakistan on Twitter
"Nawaz Sharif's photos from Italy are an expression of the helplessness and worthlessness of our judicial system, a convicted person whose bail has been made the prime minister by our system is defaming the entire system, the people involved in this crime are the worst of Pakistan. The powerful mafia is the future of Pakistan only with the defeat of this mafia.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"For the past seven months, Imran Khan was accusing America and the establishment of overthrowing the government, suddenly he realized that there was no external or internal conspiracy in his government family. After signing an agreement with an American lobbying firm, Imran Khan is constantly taking every U-turn with his narrative.”
-Sherry Rehman

"The PM Office has received the summary from the Ministry of Defence with a panel of names for the appointment of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Army Staff. The Prime Minister will take a decision on the appointments as per the laid down procedure."
-Prime Minister's Office
Also read...
Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Toshakhana controversy
Dawn, 24 November 2022
These disclosures have highlighted the urgent need to reform the Toshakhana procedure. Since these gifts are given to state officials, and almost invariably reciprocated at state expense, it is fair to demand that all gifts received by high officials should be deposited in the Toshakhana and a more thoughtful policy adopted for their disposal through, for example, open auction, using the proceeds for public welfare.

Kamila Hyat, Whatever happened to ethics?
The News International, 24 November 2022
We need to take steps to create a more ethical place…And this can happen only if our leaders at the top of the pyramid set the right examples and ensure that we are not constantly inundated by scandals that have hit us constantly over the years and continue to make the news today as we engage in our quest to understand the actions of politicians and what they achieve through their deeds.

Editorial, Farewell to arms
Dawn, 24 November 2022
Catharsis will come whenever the institution confronts the ghosts of its past. Gen Bajwa has started the process; one hopes it will carry on. Honesty and sincerity in the civil-military relationship may just be what is needed to make the country whole again.

Editorial, Parting words
The News International, 24 November 2022
Perhaps, as the COAS has promised, it is time to finally go back to a reset of sorts and ensure that all institutions stay within their marked lanes. In this, there is a lesson also for the political class that needs to stop vying for the blue-eyed spot and learn to respect the democracy it uses with such abandon as a slogan.

Editorial, Honest appraisal
The Express Tribune, 24 November 2022
The ball is now in the civil domain, and decisions taken now onwards — and that too in constitutionally ordained direction — will be a service to public representation. Enough of experiments on the path of personalised obsessions. It’s time to reset the civil order and usher in political stability.

Editorial, Currency crisis
Dawn, 24 November 2022
The start of the next IMF programme performance review for early disbursement of the Fund’s stalled tranche and other multilateral assistance would do a lot to stamp out negative perceptions of a looming default crisis.

Aasiya Riaz, Recovering from a crisis
The News International, 24 November 2022
Our election management system has everything that it takes to ensure a free and fair election, be that constitutional guarantees, legal regime or administrative capacity…Pakistan has suffered grave consequences for not allowing fair political mandate before. Respecting the public’s choice to vote in or vote out anyone they like is the first step towards steering clear of political interference.
 


“Democracy is supposed to be about the people deciding over who would decide over issues. In Pakistan, however, it has been reduced, if it ever was elevated, to where people observe and cheer for their favourite politician to become successful in recruiting their recruiter.” 

-An opinion in The Express Tribune on ‘Recruiting the recruiter
 

 


Imran Khan calling real estate the ‘biggest mafia’ in the country


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan calls the real estate the ‘biggest mafia’ in the country, pushes establishment to explain ‘economic disaster’ 
On 22 November, Imran Khan said that real estate is the “biggest mafia” in Pakistan because it acquires government land, gives it to the general public and then “transfers” the profits abroad. He noted that the land encroachment situation was “the same” in all parts of the country and that land worth PKR 1.2 trillion had been taken by the land mafia in Islamabad alone. Additionally, he said, “the economy requires certainty”, and that it is imperative to hold a free and fair election to revitalise the economy. He highlighted the importance of building a “resilient” economy and acknowledged his “mistake” of rolling out amnesty schemes without credible mandates. He asked the government to explain their “failure” to foresee the “economic disaster” in the country, and said that the “economic balance was already fragile”. (Kazim Alam, “Imran terms real estate ‘biggest mafia’,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

The Neelum-Jhelum project might ‘collapse’, parliamentary panel pushes probe
On 22 November, a parliamentary panel was informed about the “serious threat” of the possible disintegration of the Neelum-Jhelum (NJ) hydropower plant. the chairman of NEPRA said that the government faces the “greatest fear” of a potential collapse of the plant, which has been closed since July 2022. The project entails PKR 10 billion being paid by the consumers and has suffered a fault following the blocking of water in the tunnel area. The chairman also said that the consumers might suffer a loss of PKR 1.2 billion. Additionally, the panel was informed of preliminary investigations of the tunnel, and that experts have identified eight causes for the tunnel’s possible collapse. (Zafar Bhutta, “Collapse of NJ tunnel feared,” The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022)

Election Commission initiates an affidavit for the Toshakana case
On 22 November, the District Election Commissioner (DEC)  Waqas Malik said that “criminal proceedings” against Imran Khan in the Toshakhana case had been directed for his involvement in the polls law for “corrupt practices”. In the affidavit, the DEC said that the ECP will ensure that there will be no corrupt practices in the reference polls and that Imran Khan would be dealt with under the Elections Act for corrupt practices. Further, he added that Imran Khan was directed to adhere to the ECP ruling of 21 November. The judge hearing the case barred Imran Khan’s lawyer from submitting his bank statement and said that his documents need to be certified as well. (“ECP official records affidavit in Toshakhana case,” The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022)

Planning Minister says political instability and inconsistent policies are reasons behind Pakistan’s ‘failures’
On 22 November, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said that the political unreliability and the incessant lack of policies in the country led to “multiple failures” over the last 75 years. Ahsan claimed that his government had “unveiled” the Vision 2025 programme in 2013, but was not progressing by the successive government. He said that this “obstruction of policies” was a reason Pakistan “was not moving in one right direction”. He also led that peace and stability were the “prerequisites” for the progress of any country and that the youth of the country needed proper direction to prevent a “demographic disaster”. (“Policy disruptions behind multiple failures: Ahsan,” The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Jirga requests the government to spare Malakand from tax levies for the next 80 years
On 23 November, leaders of various political parties addressing a jirga with Jamaat-i-Islami chief Sirajul Haq in the chair “pledged” the government to exempt the Malakand division from taxes for the next 80 years. They expressed their demands of a special development package for the division on similar patterns in former tribal areas, and “threatened” to start a protest movement if their demands were not met. The jirga also discussed the existing law and order in the Malakand division, where a joint declaration was issued at the end of the jirga. Sirajul Haq said that “no one would be allowed to sabotage peace” in the region, and that they would “wage struggle” to get rights for the region. (“Jirga asks govt to exempt Malakand from taxes for 80 years,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

Sindh: Election Commission announces LG polls in Karachi and Hyderabad for 15 January
On 22 November, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said the local government (LG) elections would be held on 15 January next year in Karachi and Hyderabad, and directed the government of Sindh to provide adequate security personnel for election duty and polling offices and stations. In a 10-page order by a five-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, the ECP said that it is the “constitutional obligation” of the ECP to ensure the timely conduct of elections. The LG polls were originally scheduled for 24 July but were postponed three times, where the Sindh High Court (SHC) directed the ECP to release a schedule for the local authorities to prepare for the elections (Mumtaz Alvi, “LG polls in Karachi, Hyderabad to be held on Jan 15: ECP,” The News International, 23 November 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Dispute over the suggested demolition of the mosques in Peshawar intensifies
On 23 November, Dawn reported that the controversy over the proposed destruction of the Speen Jumaat mosque intensified as the mayor of Peshawar and several political leaders laid their support to the mosque protection committee in objection to the plan to demolish the structure. The mayor said that the city does not “want a clash” between the people and the administration and announced PKR 15 million for the renovation and rehabilitation of the structure. A meeting presided over by the mayor and leaders of various political factions opposed the district administration’s plan and said that “no one will be allowed” to make use of the Peshawar metropolitan government in the “presence” of law and institution. The mayor said that they would “protect” the mosque and will issue statements about the historical importance of the structure. (“Controversy over proposed demolition of Peshawar mosque deepens,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

Balochistan: Supreme Court asks for transparency in Reko Diq dealings
On 23 November, the Supreme Court (SC) emphasised the parties to “concentrate” on the transparency of the Reko Diq Project. A five-member bench headed by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial heard the presidential reference on the project and said that the mining company needs to “advance” its arguments on the transparency of the project.  The counsel said that the company would lay an underground pipeline from Reko Diq to the seaport where the gold reserves and copper would be transported and led that the project was “seeking” the opinion of the SC to be mindful of the “legal mistakes” made in the earlier projects. (Sohail Khan, “SC seeks transparency in Reko Diq project,” The News International, 23 November 2022)

Balochistan: Supreme Court apprehensive of obligations in Reko Diq settlement deal
On 22 November, the Supreme Court expressed concern over the obligations of the proposed agreement of the Reko Diq exploration deal, which if not met may “expose” the country to a penalty similar to the USD 6.5 million awards by the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) tribunal. A senior counsel for the Barrick Gold Corporation (BGC) said that the country would not be met with an international arbitration unless the company is denied of exploration rights. Further, he added that if the “complicity” of Pakistan was established with ample security in the area, the government could avoid the “negative effect” of the deal. According to the ICSID, the project is located 50km from Afghanistan and 40km from Iran and is exposed to “danger and instability”. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC wonders if obligations will be fulfilled in Reko Diq deal,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

Punjab: Sugar mills refuse to begin sugarcane crushing, deadlock between the government continues
On 23 November, The Express Tribune reported that the sugarcane mills in Punjab have “refused” to go ahead with the sugarcane crushing season which begins on 25 November. The deferring of the crushing has deepened the worries of the harvesters, who are in anticipation of the sugarcane season starting later this week. The mills in the province have issued a message to the growers, saying that they are facing “technical issues”. The report also said that allegedly, the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has “instructed” the mills to delay the crushing season until the government permits the sugar exports. The PSMA is in talks with the prime minister regarding the exporting of sugar at a lower rate and importing the same at a higher price. Despite the estimated fall in production for 2022-2023, growers believe that they will receive an exportable surplus by the end of the year. (Farooq Sindhu, “Row over sugar export further delays crushing,”  The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022)

JUDICIARY
Lahore High Court repeals the registrar’s objection to a petition against film Joyland
On 22 November, Justice Muzamail Akhtar Shabbir of the Lahore High Court (LHC) countermanded the registrar's office’s adjournment of a petition against the showcasing of the film Joyland and asked the office to “fix the hearing” of the plea before a relevant bench. The office had laid questions on the “maintainability” of the petition for a direct approach to the LHC but was dealt with an overruling by the judge. A petitioner objecting to the film said that the theme of the film might “have shocking effects” on society and that the Constitution needs to provide “freedom of speech and expression”. He alleged that the movie is “beyond the law” and that the film could “tilt” the men of the country to pursue relations with transpersons. (“Plea against Joyland: Lahore High Court overrules registrar’s objection,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan among other countries with a ‘high risk’ of currency crises
On 22 November, the Japanese Bank warned that seven countries along with Pakistan are presently at a “high risk of currency crises” and that 22 out of 32 countries which are under the bank’s warning system are overseeing risk since May of this year. The system calculates scores on all 32 countries, which increased from 1,744 to 2,234 since May. The model scores the countries on eight indicators, including foreign exchange reserves, exchange rate, financial health and interest rates. Pakistan and Hungary scored 126 on the scale. The bank called the risk “an ominous warning sign” of the increasing risk in the emerging market (EM) currencies and also estimated that a score above 100 indicates a 64 per cent chance of a currency crisis in the next year. (“Pakistan, Turkiye, others ‘at high risk of currency crisis’,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Federal Board of Revenue falls short in paying back tax refunds to export industries
On 22 November, exporters in the country warned the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of shutting down their textile units due to a cascading liquidity crunch in their operations. The FBR has deferred PKR 55 billion in the last six months of the year, with refund payment orders amounting to nearly PKR 45 billion since October. The exporters’ income tax credit dues are nearly PKR100 billion, with the duty drawback of local taxes and levies and the payment to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) standing at PKR 45 billion and PKR 10 billion respectively. The exporters expressed serious concerns over the delay in their payments, and said that the deferment is affecting their working capital and “putting their business to halt”, saying that the Pakistan textile industry is “likely to lose markets internationally”. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “FBR fails to refund Rs200bn to exporters,” Dawn, 23 November 2022)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
For now, the march is suspended in Rawat.
 
Who said what?
PTI Senator Faisal Javed Khan stated that Imran Khan will lead the "biggest yet peaceful protest" in Rawalpindi. He claimed that the people were demanding early elections to address the problems Pakistan is facing, adding, "This is the matter of the country and its poor people."

Fawad Chaudhry stated that 30,000 to 40,000 people would reach Rawalpindi by 25 November, after which Imran Khan will lead a rally in the city. Meanwhile, Asad Umar called on the residents of Rawalpindi to prepare for Imran's arrival saying, "Pindi, get ready! Kaptaan is coming on Nov 26 along with the rest of the country."

Other developments 
Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Aamer Farooq stated that the administration would make a decision regarding the PTI’s petition for holding a public procession on 26 November and the landing of Imran Khan's helicopter at Parade Ground. He added that the court was not “responsible for providing helipad services.”
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 23 November, The Express Tribune reported that Naveed Ahma, the suspect arrested for opening fire at Imran Khan stuck to his initial statement while being interrogated thrice by the joint investigation team (JIT). According to its source, the interrogators of the JIT Naveed went his initial statement that he had acted alone and some speeches of Imran hurt his religious sentiments despite the JIT coming down harsh on his. 
Pakistan on Twitter
"Nawaz Sharif's photos from Italy are an expression of the helplessness and worthlessness of our judicial system, a convicted person whose bail has been made the prime minister by our system is defaming the entire system, the people involved in this crime are the worst of Pakistan. The powerful mafia is the future of Pakistan only with the defeat of this mafia.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"For the past seven months, Imran Khan was accusing America and the establishment of overthrowing the government, suddenly he realized that there was no external or internal conspiracy in his government family. After signing an agreement with an American lobbying firm, Imran Khan is constantly taking every U-turn with his narrative.”
-Sherry Rehman

"The PM Office has received the summary from the Ministry of Defence with a panel of names for the appointment of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Army Staff. The Prime Minister will take a decision on the appointments as per the laid down procedure."
-Prime Minister's Office
Also read...
Zahid Hussain, The moment of truth
Dawn, 23 November 2022
It will be extremely challenging for the new army command to deal with the multiple problems faced by the institution…It is the moment of truth for the incoming army leadership that is to take charge at this very critical juncture in the country’s trajectory. It may not be easy to move away from this damning legacy.

Editorial, Time to set things right
The News International, 23 November 2022
Probably the most urgent of all challenges to the economy is the political risk hovering over our horizons. One hopes the government can quickly push through the long-drawn-out November appointment matter, and steer the nation towards political stability.

Rafia Zakaria, Slave to the game
Dawn, 23 November 2022
The fact is that most workers, Pakistani or Nepali or Filipino, are irrelevant and replaceable, and live entirely at the whim of their employers. All Gulf states feature two parallel universes: the Qataris roaming Doha’s malls make 20,000 euros a year and those they are served by as they try to send even a few hundred euros home to their families.

Editorial, Justice denied
Dawn, 23 November 2022
The acquittal on Monday sends a disheartening message to those risking their lives to stand up for those less fortunate, even as it emboldens groups who, with the help of unscrupulous political patrons, are devouring the city’s resources unchecked. The Sindh government must immediately file an appeal against the acquittal.

Editorial, Disappearing act
Dawn, 23 November 2022
The former prime minister appears to have made use of a diplomatic passport recently issued to him by the interior ministry to make his trip…Yet, it seems that the first priority for him upon being given the enhanced travelling privileges that come with a diplomatic passport was a rambling leisure trip. One also wonders if Maryam Nawaz and her father paid a thought to how the people back home would feel about their European tour.

Haris Iqbal, The case for unity between Pakistan and Afghanistan
The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022
The economic future of Pakistan is dependent on Afghanistan as it is the key country which connects us with Central Asian countries… Chaman borders. We should help the new Afghan government to develop standardised organisations like NADRA to issue valid ID cards and passports to streamline border traffic.

Talat Masood, Winds of change in the Muslim world
The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022
The Muslim countries however have weaknesses that they need to overcome. There is a requirement for introducing major social and political reforms in most of the countries because without it all-round progress would not be possible. They need to prioritise this effort keeping in mind that the transition would be fairly challenging.

Editorial, Need to talk it out
The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022
Engaging Khan in a meaningful dialogue is the only way out. Time to take a call in rationality before it gets late. It will be a blessing in disguise for the battered economy and sordid political environment. Ushering in stability by cajoling political players for a constitutionally-ordained solution is indispensable.

Editorial, Sindh Moorat March
The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022
The Federal Sharia Court must let sanity prevail and work towards strengthening the bill, not weakening it. The government must ensure proper implementation of trans laws while people should give them the opportunity to integrate themselves back into society.

Editorial, March for equality
The News International, 23 November 2022
Dignity, regardless of class and gender, is a fundamental right granted to every citizen under the constitution. The brutalities transgender persons go through on a daily basis and the increasing violent attacks on them, especially in recent years, should serve as a grisly reminder of how far we have still to go before all citizens of Pakistan enjoy equal rights and protection under the law.

Dr Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, Need to bridge the gap
The Express Tribune, 23 November 2022
The crux of all this discussion is that the policymakers have to understand the psyche of the youth by adopting a conciliatory approach...The gap between institutions of the government and the public, in particular the burgeoning youth, has to be bridged. Still, there is time before it is too late.
 


“Pakistan’s performance at the COP27 is praiseworthy but is the first step in a long battle. For us, climate change is nothing short of an existential threat.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Making waves at COP27
 

 

 


Imran Khan summoned for Toshakhana case hearing


Photo: Dawn



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)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
For now, the march is suspended in Rawat.
 
Who said what?
Asad Umar called on the PTI members to set up a “khema basti” (tent city) in Rawapindi. He also stated that the next plan of action would be shared by Imran Khan on 26 November saying, “and if Khan sahib asks us to make people stay there, there will be arrangements for that as well.”

On Imran’s security, he said, “With regard to security you are absolutely right, we had apprehensions before — which turned out to be true — we were getting reports that Khan sahib’s life is in danger and you saw how the attempt on Khan sahib’s life was carried out in an organised manner, but life and death are in God’s hands.” He added, “However, there will be very special security arrangements, which will be unlike those of past PTI rallies,” adding, “It took a lot to convince Khan sahib, you know he’s a brave man, and he doesn’t want anything between the people and himself.”

Other developments 
Imran Khan held a meeting with senior party leaders at his residence in Lahore. During the meeting, it was decided that the PTI convoys would reach Rawalpindi on 26 November from where Imran Khan would lead the march forward.

Meanwhile, the PTI has not formally sought any formal permission from the Rawalpindi administration and announced staging a sit-in at Faizabad on 26 November. This comes as the deputy commissioner was informed in writing that the PTI would stage a sit-in at Faizabad and that Imran Khan’s helicopter would land at the Parade Ground.

On 21 November, the Lahore High Court disposed of a petition seeking a restraining order against the PTI’s long march. The petition was filed by the chairman of the supreme council of the All Pakistan Traders Association. The court directed the police to hear aggrieved traders and decide the matter within a week.
Meanwhile, a sessions court rejected another plea challenging police refusal to book Imran Khan for sedition.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 21 November, the members of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) inspected the crime scene for the third time since its formation by the Punjab government. The members of JIT SP (Counter Terrorism Department) Naseebullah and SP Rawal town Rawalpindi Malik Tariq jointly inspected the crime scene. However, JIT head, CCPO Lahore Ghulam Mehmood did not accompany the team as he inspected the scene previously.

 

Pakistan on Twitter

"Nawaz Sharif's departure from the UK is extremely worrying right after the sensational statement of Tasneem Chaudhry, the spokesperson of the Non-League in Britain, that Nawaz Sharif will have to present himself to confirm the allegations of murder and attempted murder by his colleague.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"For the past seven months, Imran Khan was accusing America and the establishment of overthrowing the government, suddenly he realized that there was no external or internal conspiracy in his government family. After signing an agreement with an American lobbying firm, Imran Khan is constantly taking every U-turn with his narrative.”
-Sherry Rehman

"As long as the appointment of the new army chief is not resolved as a problem, there is no stability in politics. Garana Allah's statement that he will appoint a new army chief even without a summary is an alarm bell. It is clear from the statement of the interior minister that all is not good. All are not on the same page."
-Sheikh Rashid Ahmed

 

Also read...

Ozer Khalid, Challenges for incoming army chief
The Express Tribune, 22 November 2022
Pakistan’s future military supremo, like all the rest, will be (theoretically) in service of the incumbent government. It is paramount that the new army head will prioritise the interests of the state and not those of the government as those interests are politically charged and must no longer be the business of the army to politically interfere…Irrespective of who the next COAS is, they have an uphill struggle awaiting them, which is long and winding.

Editorial, Need to fix the default fox
The Express Tribune, 22 November 2022
There are few genuine worries and they go beyond the immediate of default fears. It is agreed that Pakistan has never defaulted, and shall technically be sound in book-keeping with international lenders, but the point is that it is mired in a crisis of confidence. This particular factor can only be overcome by inducing political stability.

Editorial, Unfulfilled promises
Dawn, 22 November 2022
Lollipops for the people of Gwadar and the rest of Balochistan will no longer do the trick. There needs to be solid action where the protesters’ genuine demands are concerned. The state wishes to turn Gwadar into a world-class port, a key node in the grand CPEC scheme. However, this will be very difficult unless Balochistan’s people are equal partners in these projects, and the benefits of foreign investment reach the locals and improve their quality of life.

Editorial, COP27 agreement
The Express Tribune, 22 November 2022
The resulting humanitarian crisis is a wake-up call that urgent action is required. A fundamental shift is required in development path and policies, whereby a people- and climate-centric approach should be included. The general aim should be to protect the economy from such shocks while also working towards sustainability and resilience.

Editorial, Climate coup
Dawn, 22 November 2022
The Global Shield initiative announced last week had been a breakthrough in climate finance, but its scope is limited to helping climate-vulnerable nations secure themselves against the risks arising from natural disasters through insurance and other financial instruments.

Samar Quddus, Climate justice
The News International, 22 November 2022
It is now almost inevitable to avoid climate-change effects that are intensifying with time, especially for countries with economic and financial constraints. As almost eight million people are still stranded and displaced in Pakistan, the international community should not make any further delays in releasing funds to Pakistan and other countries impacted by climate change.

Editorial, Narrative U-turn
Dawn, 22 November 2022
Mr Khan’s lack of faith in democracy and the people. It is a demand that no leader who supports a true democratic culture should make — especially in view of the outcome of the establishment’s interference in politics throughout Pakistan’s history. Sadly, the PTI chief does not seem to be learning from the past and has not yet recognised the benefits of political pluralism.

Arifa Noor, An extended question
Dawn, 22 November 2022
The establishment and the rest of us should be worried about the trends, which seem to have become commonplace in the post-Musharraf era. And the foremost among these is extensions, however, worthy individuals may be of such longevity in positions.

Mosharraf Zaidi, The morning after November 29
The News International, 22 November 2022
Many Pakistanis will celebrate on November 29. Many will celebrate when the next election is announced. Many will celebrate when their party or coalition wins the election. But I guarantee one thing: there will be nothing meaningful to celebrate.

 


“Like many other health challenges, mental health is a complex field. But little attention has been paid to it, and it lags far behind other areas of physical healthcare.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘A complex field
 

 


Trade reinstated between Pakistan and Afghanistan after the Chaman border reopens


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Trade resumed between Pakistan and Afghanistan after Chaman border reopens
On 21 November, cross-border movement and trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan resumes after the Chaman border reopened after more than a week. This comes after an armed attack from Afghanistan killed two soldiers and injured two others. Security forces from both countries “shook hands” after the border opened, and agreed to open the Friendship gate for “all types of trade and communication”. Officials confirmed that customs clearance and immigration operations have been restored, including daily trade activities. The border opened after multiple “flag meetings” between the two countries, which were attended by a 10-member delegation from Pakistan. (“Pak-Afghan trade restored at Chaman border after over a week's closure,” The News International, 21 November 2022)

Balochistan: Highway blocked by thousands of  protestors in Gwadar port
On 20 November, tens and thousands of protestors which included women and children obstructed an expressway that leads to the Gwadar port. They said that the government had failed to meet a November 20 deadline for their demands. Fishermen, students and labourers formed the majority of the protestors who were led by Gwadar Haq Do Tehreek’s chief Maulana Hidayatur Rahman. The protest enters its 25th day, where protestors seek to ban illegal fishing by trawlers in the province’s boundaries, ask for maximum concessions in border trade with Iran, and to end narcotics in the area. Rahman said: “the struggle of the Haq Do movement will continue until the problems are served”. (Behram Baloch, “Protesters block highway leading to Gwadar port,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Provincial Minister asks government to rid the dues of Khyber Pakhtunkwa heads
On 20 November, the Provincial Minister for Finance Taimur Saleem Jhagra demanded the government to clear the remaining dues of Khyber Pakhtunkwa heads and said that their demands for the releasing the funds to the province was “constitutional”. They said that they would not “give up their constitutional rights”. He said that the government should be serious in its approach to “restore the trust” of the international market and to maintain the country’s economy. The minister said that it is the “right of the people” to take them into confidence on economic problems. (“KP asks centre to clear its outstanding dues,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

INTERNAL
Chief Minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi says Imran Khan ‘clarifies’ stance on government’s involvement in his assassination
On 21 November, Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi stated that Imran Khan had made it clear that the government had no role to play in the ousting of his government and in the attempted assassination. Imran Khan said, “let us accept that the establishment was not behind the regime change conspiracy” and that no government can succeed without consistent support. Elahi also said that PM Shehbaz Sharif was “badly exposed” after he took the power in the government and that the return of Nawaz Sharif should be discussed within the Sharif family. (“Imran has clarified establishment not behind his ouster, says Punjab CM Parvez Elahi,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

Anti-terrorism court prolongs bail period for Imran Khan
On 21 November, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) extended the bail of Imran Khan pertaining to his previous priors on protests and interference in state affairs. The case was heard by ATC judge Raja Jawad Hasan on behalf of Imran Khan who said that he could “not be present in court due to his bullet injuries” and that he is unwell. The court extended the bail until 28 November after accepting his request for the exemption based on medical grounds. The Islamabad police had filed a case against Imran Khan for violation of Section 144 during their rally in August and said that the party leaders rallied across despite announcements by the police of Section 144 imposed in the area.  (“Anti-terror court extends Imran's bail in Sec 144 violation case,” The Express Tribune, 21 November 2022)

Imran Khan says PDM put talks on the table, vows for a ‘surprise’
On 21 November, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ishaq Dar, President Arif Alvi, and Imran Khan said that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government had “approached” the PTI for talks. Imran Khan said that the PDM “relayed messages” through the President and to the PTI, but “was not ready” to talk to the government until fresh elections were announced. However, PML-N officials denied the claim and said that Imran Khan is “beseeching” for a way out of the talks. Another source said that Dar and Alvi met only because Dar “wanted to check his reaction” to the summary of the appointment of the new army chief. (Mansoor Malik, “Imran claims PDM offered talks, vows to surprise all,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
US calls Pakistan a ‘key regional ally’ and India is a ‘global partner’ 
On 21 November, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Pakistan is “a valuable partner” in a vulnerable region and that India is a “global partner.” Meanwhile, a US official said that they value the “long-standing” cooperation with Pakistan and view their relationship as a critical one. The official also mentioned that internal changes within the country do not impact the US’ “desire” to maintain its relationship with the country and that it remains “unchanged.” While describing its relationship with India, the US officials also said that it “expects” Inda to play while Pakistan is an “important ally” in battling terrorism and stabilising Afghanistan. (Anwar Iqbal, “For US, Pakistan remains key regional ally, India global partner,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Current account deficits sees a downturn of 68 per cent in October
On 21 November, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said that the current account deficit of the country came down to 68.13 per cent an amount of USD 0.57 billion in October. The rate increased by 56.2 per cent from September and has shown that the first four months of the current fiscal stood at USD 2.8 billion. SPB said that a consistent decrease in imports helped improve the rate. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar said that the deficit was “under strict watch” and was being monitored for the well-being of the economy.  (“Current account deficit shrinks 68.13pc YoY to $0.57bn in October,” Dawn, 21 November 2022)

Special Notes
PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
For now, the march is suspended in Rawat.
 
Who said what?
Imran Khan announced that that the PTI’s strategy would emerge soon as to why the long march was going to Rawalpindi, instead of Islamabad. He said, “I know that my life is in danger. There may be another attack, but despite all the threats, I would reach Rawalpindi,” adding, “I know that my wounds cannot heal soon. I will lead the long march with the wounded leg.”

Meanwhile, the PTI has sought permission from the Islamabad administration to allow it to proceed from different routes of Islamabad to reach Faizabad in Rawalpindi. On 20 November, Imran Khan urged his supporters to gather in Rawalpindi on 26 November for the long march which he is expected to rejoin in person after recovering from the injuries of the attack.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah stated that the gathering at Rawalpindi will be the "smallest" in the party's history. He said, "This is not a long march, but a reeng (crawl) march," adding, "Imran Niazi tried to put up a show over the army chief's appointment in which he failed."

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticised Imran Khan for "backtracking" from foreign conspiracy and anti-establishment narrative, claiming that Imran Khan has lost his sense and is not figuring out who to blame.

Other developments 
Inspector-General of Police Akbar Nasir Khan stated that there could be closing of entry points from Rawalpindi to Islamabad on 26 November adding that the public could face problems due to the closure.

In preparation for the PTI’s long march, the Islamabad police have decided to equip personnel deployed at entry points of the capital with body cameras to ensure accountability. The police have also decided to deploy officials at the entry points and strategic locations in the capital.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 20 November, Marriyum Aurangzeb rejected Tasneem Haider Shah's claims for being a PML-N spokesperson in London and declared him a "PTI organiser in London." Further, she also rejected his claims of Nawaz Sharif’s involvement in the attack on Imran Khan and Arshad Sharif's murder, asking him to produce evidence before the joint investigation team (JIT) to back them up. Previously, Shah alleged that the Nawaz asked him to arrange for shooters to gun down the Imran n Wazirabad.

 

Pakistan on Twitter
      

"Non-League members are shouting that Tasneem Haider is a criminal, brother, he was being hired for crime, he was being asked to kill, which orphanage was he going to run.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"Military cannot be kept out of politics unless it's kept out of the economy. Those with vast financial power will never give up political power. Questioning and investigating the military's financial empire is absolutely necessary.”
-Ammar Ali Jan

"I send a message to Bilawal that don't threaten the President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi, first find the killers of your mother and punish them in your house."
-Azam Khan Swati

Also read...
Editorial, Climate change toll
The Express Tribune, 21 November 2022
A fundamental shift is required in development path and policies, whereby a people- and climate-centric approach should be included. The general aim should be to protect the economy from such shocks while also working towards sustainability and resilience.

Towards climate justice
The News International, 21 November 2022
Vulnerable countries have already paid a lot in terms of lost opportunities and missed growth prospects. Every human being has the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

Editorial, Gas shortages in Karachi
The Express Tribune, 21 November 2022
Amid severe economic challenges, the federal government should have made provisions beforehand to at least ensure supply to the financial powerhouse to maintain productivity. The situation calls for officials to streamline gas projects with Russia and the UAE, while also exploring other viable alternatives including indigenous gas exploration.

Enem Ali Abbas, A winter without gas
The News International, 21 November 2022
The state needs such combinations coupled with a future forward approach to take corrective decisions and chalk out long-term policies in the best interest of the people. From the mess that the political elite has created in the country during the last few decades, it is reasonable to assume that we need a 30-year plan to address and fix the existing loopholes and innovate long-lasting strategic solutions.

Editorial, No end to gas crisis
Dawn, 21 November 2022
What the ongoing international commodity super cycle has taught us is that such an option works for countries like Pakistan — which are always faced with perpetual balance-of-payments troubles — only when international gas prices are low and affordable. Thus, if Pakistan is to tackle the gas crunch, it must focus on early domestic gas discoveries. Or we can continue to ration gas till such time we are not left with any.

Editorial, Diphtheria fears
The News International, 21 November 2022
Pakistan needs to look for opportunities to produce this vaccine locally but lately we have seen multinational pharmaceutical companies opting to wind up business in Pakistan. This is not a good sign for a country of 230 million people who need regular medicines and vaccinations.

Maleeha Lodhi, Shadow of hot and cold wars
Dawn, 21 November 2022
While many Western commentators saw the most important outcome of the G20 summit to be Putin’s increasing international isolation, the global gathering may well be remembered more for the Biden-Xi meeting on the sidelines, which opened an opportunity to improve US-China relations and move the two global powers toward ‘responsible competition.’

Muna Khan, Planetary woes
Dawn, 21 November 2022
While Pakistan is correct to call for climate justice, it would be unfair — and foolish — for it to pretend it does not have a population problem. It needs to revisit its family planning programmes and create stronger messaging on the benefits of spacing children, for example.
 


“Pakistan is in a grip of political crisis. If anything, it needs a visionary leadership. The managerial leadership of the past and present that has only proliferated the status quo has miserably failed.” 

-An opinion in The Express Tribune on ‘Global resentment and public disorientation
 

 


NAB going to probe into Toshakhana reference against Imran Khan


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
NAB to probe into Toshakhana reference against Imran Khan
On 19 November, The News International reported that National Accountability Bureau would probe probe the transaction of proceeds received by Imran Khan through the sale of Toshakhana gifts. According to the report, the NAB would seek the payment and sale record of Toshakhana gifts from the Cabinet Division.  Additionally, a special team is to be created to handle the case. (“NAB to probe Toshakhana case against Imran Khan,” The News International, 19 November 2022)

PTI threatens to initiate a no-confidence motion against Senate Chairman
On 19 November, the PTI senators threatened to bring a no-confidence motion against Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani after he refused to resign. Sanjrani said, “I will not resign, and if you bring a no-confidence motion, I will contest it.” (“PTI threatens no-trust as Senate chairman refuses to resign,” The News International, 19 November 2022)

ECONOMY
There is no immediate threat of Pakistan going to default, says the Minister of State for Finance and Revenue
On 18 November, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus Pasha told the National Assembly that Pakistan was not facing any danger of going to default. She said, “Alhamdulillah [Thank God], there is no such possibility. Yes, we were worried when we took over the government [in April] because at that time the IMF programme was suspended and the avenues of getting external finances were closed for us,” adding that after the successful seventh and eighth reviews of the IMF programme, there was no immediate threat of Pakistan going to default. (Amir Wasim, “Pakistan no longer faces default risk, NA told,” Dawn, 19 November 2022)

Only USD 4.2 billion in foreign loans arrived in Pakistan, says Ministry of Economic Affairs
On 18 November, the Ministry of Economic Affairs reported that Pakistan received USD 4.2 billion in foreign loan from July through October 2022. The amount was higher by 10 per cent compared with the loans received in the same period of last fiscal year. The disbursement of USD 4.2 billion in July-October was equal to only 18.4 per cent of the annual estimate of USD 22.8 billion. (Shahbaz Rana, “Only $4.2b in foreign loans arrive,” The Express Tribune, 19 November 2022)

PROVINCE
Sindh: Opposition and ruling parties welcome SHC verdict on LG polls
On 18 November, the ruling parties and opposition in Sindh welcomed the judgement of the Sindh High Court (SHC) regarding its directive to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to hold local government elections in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions within 60 days. On the verdict, the PPP says that the poll date will be decided in view of ‘ground realities.’ The PTI and JI viewed the decision to elect within 60 days as a victory. Meanwhile, the MQM-P believes that no excuse will be left for not holding delimitation. (Imran Ayub, “Opposition, ruling parties in Sindh hail verdict on LG polls, but doubts remain,” Dawn, 19 November 2022)

Balochistan: 85 per cent of the provincial budget spent on payment of salaries, says CM
On 18 November, Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo stated that 85 per cent of the provincial budget is spent on the payment of salaries of government employees leaving the government with hardly any funds to spend on development projects of the province. He said, “We are far behind other provinces of the country as far as development projects are concerned due to lack of resources and funds to develop the province.” (Saleem Shahid, “85pc budget of Balochistan spent on officials’ pay: CM Bizenjo,” Dawn, 19 November 2022)

Balochistan: Two terrorists killed in IBO in Hoshab area
On 18 November, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the Army has killed two terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in Balochistan’s Hoshab area. According to the statement, the IBO was initiated in the general area of Balor against terrorists who were linked with firing incidents on security forces and civilians and also planting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on the M-8 motorway. (Saleem Shahid, “2 terrorists killed during operation in Balochistan’s Hoshab: ISPR,” Dawn, 19 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan reiterates push to increase non-permanent UN members in the UNSC
On 19 November, Pakistan Ambassador to UN Munir Akram reiterated the calls for increasing in the number of non-permanent members would make the 15-member body more representative, democratic and effective. He said, “The only criteria for Security Council membership set out in the UN Charter is for the election of non-permanent members.” He added, “Unfortunately, consensus on Security Council reform has been impeded, from the outset, by the demand of four countries that they be selected as new permanent members in an expanded Security Council,” adding, “Their demand violates the principle of sovereign equality of States; it ignores the reality that permanent membership and the veto are often the cause of the Council's inaction.” (“Pakistan pushes to increase non-permanent UN members,” The Express Tribune, 19 November 2022)

Special Notes
 
DAY 22 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Asad Umar, who are leading separate convoys, will meet at Rawat and then move towards Rawalpindi together.

Who said what?
The PTI announced that Imran Khan will announce the final date for his arrival in Rawalpindi.
Fawad Chaudhry said, “The final stage has arrived. Be prepared. Imran Khan will give a call to people today to reach Rawalpindi.”
 
Other developments
 A sense of panic buying has set among the resident of Rawalpindi as they fearing that the arrival of the Azaadi March in the city could increase inflation and shortage of food items in the city. Meanwhile, a command and control centre has been set up in Rawalpindi for security for the long march and to maintain communication with appropriate institutions. Over 100 snipers have been deployed on the rooftops of buildings.
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed to probe into the gun attack on  Imran Khan at Wazirabad inspected the crime scene, got briefings from the local police and sought call records of the prime suspect arrested from the spot.
 

Pakistan on Twitter

"The second phase of #حقیقی_آزادی_مارچ will arrive from Rawat to enter Rawalpindi city. Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Asad Umar supervised this wonderful campaign. Today, both convoys will meet at Rawat. Khan will call the people to reach Rawalpindi today.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"With the death of Mufti Muhammad Rafi Usmani, Pakistan has lost a moderate, high-profile jurist and mufti with balanced thoughts and ideas. His valuable academic services will be remembered. He presented the true image of Islam to the world. My heart is sad, may Allah grant us all patience.”
-Maulana Fazl ur-Rehman

"Today, after 10 days, the second phase of the real freedom march is coming to an end in Rawat. InshAllah, Imran Khan will tell all of Pakistan the date of coming to Pindi in today's meeting. #نکلو_حقیقی_آزادی_کیلئے."
-Asad Umar

 

Also read...

Miftah Ismail, Failure of governance
Dawn, 19 November 2022
What do Pakistanis think of our governments? In a PIDE survey, 40pc Pakistanis want to leave Pakistan. Look at how Pakistan is faring on various human development indices, and you cannot but conclude that Pakistan is one of the worst-governed countries in the world. It’s time we wake up to this reality.

Ammar Ali Jan, What is the One Percent Republic?
The News International, 19 November 2022
The ‘One Percent Republic’ represents a global system where financial predators control the resources of society and override state sovereignty. Whether a few faces change at the top is irrelevant to the fact that a vast majority of humanity remains excluded from the planet’s resources. There is no exact blueprint on how to defeat the logic of neoliberalism, but it is crucial not to mimic the failed policy prescriptions from Western technocrats when their own governments are abandoning them.

Editorial, Dithering is no strategy
The News International, 19 November 2022
Pakistan’s failure to complete the review within that window will mean letting the matter hang until next year, with disastrous consequences for the economy. If that is not enough to push Dar and his team into urgent action, perhaps they should consider that dithering over a painful decision now will only push it closer to the upcoming general election.

Editorial, IMF delay
Dawn, 19 November 2022
The implementation of sound economic policies and reforms is vital — and not only to revive the trust of our international lenders; it is also crucial to create fiscal space for helping millions of flood victims, and to rebuild damaged infrastructure. Sadly, we are still not prepared to learn our lesson, and continue to hope for handouts to get us out of our foreign exchange troubles. It is time we learnt to stand on our own feet.

Editorial, Tracing the missing
Dawn, 19 November 2022
Commissions are important, as families need to know where their loved ones are. But ultimately, the buck stops with the security establishment. The latter needs to end extra-legal practices, and bring suspects to the courts if it believes there is a strong case against them.

Zile Huma, Climate and gender
The News International, 19 November 2022
In the Green Climate Fund, projects related to adaptive measures targeting women must be given preference. Relief efforts for climate-led disaster areas should include gender perspective as well. Food and relief packages must include nutrition and medicines required by pregnant women. Education and communication strategies should be devised to highlight the role of gender in climate-change policies and strategies.

Editorial, Demography news
The News International, 19 November 2022
Pakistan is no stranger to doing poorly in rankings regarding human development…Factors like access to healthcare, crime rate, diet and nutrition, exercise, hygiene, lifestyle, gender, and genetics have a huge effect on a nation’s life expectancy. Pakistan is a developing country with scarce resources.

Dr Baqar Hasnain, Imran Khan, the military and the silver lining
The Express Tribune, 19 November 2022
Let’s not turn Pakistan into an autocratic state. We don’t need a powerful leader; we need a powerful system. A system of checks and balances. A system that promotes education and healthcare and high infrastructure development. A system that puts a damper on elite capture. A system that guarantees everyone equal protection and due process of law. A system that does not suppress dissent and freedom of speech.

Editorial, Low life expectancy
The Express Tribune, 19 November 2022
This is a damning indicator that merits attention across the board. Otherwise, the socio-economic condition of Pakistan will continue to worsen. Short-term initiatives will have no effect and only through thorough planning and execution can officials gradually build institutions and systems from the ground up.

 


“All political parties need to agree on the red lines regarding their relationship with the establishment rather than become tools in covering up its excesses of power, as witnessed in Pakistan’s history.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Rolling back democracy

 

 


Default risks reaching the maximum measure


Photo: Dawn



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)

Special Notes
DAY 20 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
The PTI’s march is scheduled to make stops in in Dina (Jhelum), Quaidabad (Khushab), Peshawar and Chakdara.

Who said what?
During the video address, Imran Khan said this was a "defining moment" for the country. He said, "When a nation stands up and decides not to succumb under oppression [...] they are unstoppable. God has instructed us to stand against oppressors..." claiming that the nation which tolerated "these thieves" would never be able to progress.

He claimed that the government was carrying out "propaganda" against his party in collusion a news agency, saying, "I am doing a case against them in the United Kingdom, in London and Dubai. I will expose them. Media houses formed in the name of freedom of speech are doing propaganda."

He also said that the government was introducing changes in the Pakis­tan Army Act (PAA) 1952 in an effort to bring in an army chief who could "protect them."

Meanwhile, Asad Umar said the PTI's gathering in Rawalpindi will be the "biggest ever," adding that the PTI will neither get threatened nor will it bow down. He said, "We won’t hide behind bulletproof glass. We will keep standing with all our supporters and we will win at the end of our struggle." 

Other developments
More than 10,000 police personnel, including commandos from the Elite Force and sharpshooters, will be deployed to provide foolproof security to the PTI long march upon entering the jurisdiction of Rawalpindi division.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
Following the reconstituting of the JIT for the third time, the federal government said that 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.

Additionally, in its letter to the Punjab government, the interior ministry said 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. It added that the JIT comprised five members, all belonging to the Punjab police, without representation of any other investigation agency/intelligence agency in the violation of the ATA.
Pakistan on Twitter
"Jio Group has censored its programs and news related to the Gosh Khana case in London. They believe that they will have to deal only with Pakistani courts. The action will begin.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"The performance of your government is zero, because of your wrong policies, Pakistan went to the gray list, the current government has succeeded in removing the country from the gray list, the doors are open for investors at the global level, after seventy-five years, the government of interest Free economic policy is going to be made..”
-Maulana Fazl ur-Rehman

"Let us make no mistake. Terrorism continues to be one of Pakistan's foremost problems. Our armed forces & police have valiently fought the scourge. No words are enough to condemn terrorists' attack on a police van in Lakki Marwat. My thoughts & prayers are with bereaved families.."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 
Also read...
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Reducing climate costs
Dawn, 17 November 2022
The private sector has a role to play in building national resilience. Such enterprises need to make way for private sector innovation, competitiveness ad finances. This can be Pakistan’s key to attracting and effectively utilising international climate finance, while reducing the costs of climate disasters.

Faisal Siddiqi, Judicialisation of everything
Dawn, 17 November 2022
Any judicial commission tasked with inquiring into this firing incident might deflect this present political civil war for the time being. But sadly, the dysfunctional Pakistani state is now in the ICU and the judiciary can only provide chemotherapy to this rapidly imploding entity.

Ayesha Ijaz Khan, Burnt bridges
Dawn, 17 November 2022
Although the PTI government had taken several actions to address the deficiencies pointed out by the FATF, it isn’t a coincidence that Pakistan was removed from the grey list after Imran Khan lost the vote of no-confidence. A prime minister willy-nilly praising the Taliban and making up cipher stories can’t be taken seriously internationally.

Editorial, Wazirabad JIT
Dawn, 17 November 2022
The protracted FIR imbroglio and subsequent delays in getting an investigation off the ground have all but ensured that the case will never be acceptably resolved. Meanwhile, the incident will continue to be milked for its political worth. Perhaps some want to keep it that way.

Editorial, Toshakhana mystery
Dawn, 17 November 2022
Mr Zahoor should also be asked to provide receipts of the transaction to support his claims. We need answers from all the parties involved since this controversy is proving to be embarrassing for Pakistan in diplomatic circles.

Editorial, Toshakhana tales
The News International, 17 November 2022
The people of Pakistan have every right to know about the gifts their country’s head of government receives and how and where these gifts ultimately land. The PTI has been trying to wage a war against corruption but seems to have fallen short of keeping its own house in order. A complete money trail is called for in this case, the absence of which will do little to make the issue go away.
 


“Whenever Nawaz Sharif decides to return to Pakistan on his blue passport, the country should not harbour any expectations of him, not at his age. His only interest now is to play the game, but from the presidential pavilion.” 

-An opinion in Dawn  on 'From the pavilion'

 

 


Imran Khan vilifying the Chief Election Commissioner


Photo: Dawn



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)

Special Notes
DAY 20 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
The PTI’s march is scheduled to make stops in Jehlum, Sargodha, Mardan and Timergara in Lower Dir.
PTI leader Musarrat Cheema shared the schedule for the long march convoys stating that Shah Mehmood Qureshi will leave from Gujrat with his convoy to reach Jhelum in the evening to address the gathering.
Meanwhile, Asad Umar, will reach Sargodha as he resumes the march from Kot Momin Interchange and later move towards Khayam Chowk and head towards Sargodha where he will address the gathering.
 
Fawad Chaudhry announced that the tentative date for the march towards Rawalpindi could be announced within the next 72 hours.

Who said what?
During the video address, Imran Khan claimed that the Election Commission of Pakistan has trapped the PTI in two cases; foreign funding and the Toshakhana reference.  He criticised the verdicts claiming that he could “guarantee that it will be proven that I have not done anything unlawful.”

Other developments
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has asked the Intelligence Bureau (IB) director general (DG), Motorway IG and additional home secretary for a report during the hearing of a plea seeking immediate orders to stop PTI’s long march.

Imran Khan submits a response to the Supreme Court’s order of 25 May where the PTI’s long march was restricted from entering Islamabad’s D-Chowk, was "not knowingly violated." Imran Khan stated that he assures the court that he was not informed about the court order on the evening of 25 May. He added the written order of 25 May did not specifically mention D-Chowk.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
The Punjab Home Department once again reconstituted the joint investigation team (JIT) probing the attack on Imran Khan in Wazirabad. The Punjab government has appointed Lahore CCPO Ghulam Mehmood Dogar as the head of the JIT. This was the third time that the Punjab government was reconstituting the JIT.

Pakistan on Twitter

"Umar Farooq said that the owner of my jewelery shop told me that the price of this watch is 5 million dollars, but I bought it for 20 dollars :) . For the watch, he gave me a hug on the phone and at night I sat on Khanzada's program.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain 

"Enough is enough. Yesterday Geo & Khanzada supported by Handlers slandered me through a baseless story cooked up by a known fraudster & internationally wanted criminal. I have spoken to my lawyers & I plan to sue Geo, Khanzada & the fraudster not only in Pak but also in UK & UAE.”
-Imran Khan

"Let us make no mistake. Terrorism continues to be one of Pakistan's foremost problems. Our armed forces & police have valiently fought the scourge. No words are enough to condemn terrorists' attack on a police van in Lakki Marwat. My thoughts & prayers are with bereaved families.."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 

Also read...

Abdul Sattar, Khan’s contradictions
The News International, 16 November 2022
It is quite possible that once Khan realizes that his way to the power corridors of Islamabad is blocked, he will again resort to the same anti-West and anti-American rhetoric. Since Khan has thrived on contradictory political positions, it is unlikely that he will stick to this soft stance for long. At public gatherings, he has already hinted at continuing with the anti-American tirade to maintain his support base.

Editorial, IK’s about-turn
The Express Tribune, 16 November 2022
Pakistan will almost always be the weaker party in talks with the US. At the same time, diplomacy is built on interpersonal relationships, and at a certain point, no American will want to put up with Khan’s baseless and dangerous attacks.

Muhammad Jehangir Khan, Parallel education
The News International, 16 November 2022
Since 1947, more than 23 education policies and five-year plans have been presented by successive governments in Pakistan. However, our education system is still facing multifaceted issues of ineffective management and supervision protocols, poor examination systems, etc.

Editorial, Energy gravy train
The News International, 16 November 2022
In the final reckoning, the root cause of the country’s energy woes is political instability that involves governments in firefighting mode but does not allow them time to take a strategic approach to the country’s energy issues. Given that energy security is fundamental to national security, here's hoping those at the helm of affairs can work towards the cherished end of political stability – as a prerequisite to any semblance of economic stability.

Editorial, At risk
The News International, 16 November 2022
The flood-hit areas do not have any more basic health units functioning, as most of them have been swept away. It will take months or even years before the vanished health facilities are restored. In the meantime, these ruined lives need rehabilitation and for that they need healthcare and medicine.

Zahid Hussain, Rule by proxy
Dawn, 16 November 2022
In less than one year in power, the PML-N seems to have lost most of its political capital, particularly in Punjab, that used to be its main power base. There is no likelihood of the situation changing in its favour over the next few months. The country needs a new mandate and a more representative government to bring some stability. Neither a hybrid dispensation nor proxy rule can pull the country out of the quagmire.

Rafia Zakaria, Why Trump lost
Dawn, 16 November 2022
For the longest time, it appeared that Trump and his appeal were indestructible. But now, the American voters have turned the other way. The frenzy in Washington’s conservative circles revolves around the same question: how to justify having sold out to Trump. Whatever the answer may be to this question, the voters in America have shown that the truth has begun to dawn on them.
 
Editorial, Jittery markets
Dawn, 16 November 2022
Chances are that our reserves and exchange rate will remain under stress, despite the promised multilateral inflows from the ADB and World Bank, and creditors and markets will stay jittery over soaring fears of default as long as populist considerations continue to dictate the government’s economic policymaking — and, more importantly, if political uncertainty is not defused. The fault doesn’t lie in the market-determined exchange rate; it lies in our economic and political priorities.

Editorial, Joyless lens
Dawn, 16 November 2022
Pakistan has a long history of banning artistic, especially cinematic, endeavours for portraying a ‘negative image’ — of the country, of Muslims, of Pakistani culture, of military coups and political leaders, etc. That this pattern continues, and has even intensified in recent years, speaks to a growing paranoia about challenges to the status quo. It is an approach that runs counter to a world connected by social media.

Dr Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, Politics of FIR and rule of law
The Express Tribune, 16 November 2022
Wazirabad incident has triggered an emotive debate on the issue wherein legal aspects are being ignored completely… In contrast, the issue of Imran Khan’s FIR has had an effect not only on the whole political system but also the psyche of the nation…. The government, on the other hand, is utilising all resources to frustrate the protest march. The situation threatens to add to the political chaos to the extent of breakdown. The only way to navigate out of the crisis is for the two sides to sit on the dialogue table, with the establishment mediating.

 


“As long as politics is on the current wayward track there is scant hope of the economy being placed on sound lines… For how long will we continue on this path of dependence on others? These are the issues that the leaders should be addressing and the media should be focusing on.” 

-An opinion in The Express Tribune on 'We need to pause and reflect'

 


IHC demands an explanation from ECP on corner meetings in Islamabad


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
IHC demands an explanation from ECP on corner meetings in Islamabad
On 14 November, the Islamabad High Court sought a reply from the ECP within two days on a petition filed against restrictions on corner meetings in line with the ECP code of conduct devised for local government elections in the federal capital. Ahead of the polls expected to be held next month, the ECP, in the code of conduct for the local body elections, banned public gatherings and corner meetings without the prior approval of the district administration. The petitioner, Shiraz Kayani, through his counsel Babar Awan contended before the court that the ECP’s code of conduct was against the fundamental rights. Mr Awan argued that the ECP’s code linked the corner meetings and holding of public processions with the prior approval of the administration and also introduced criteria for political activities within Red Zone. (Malik Asad, “High court seeks reply over ECP’s curbs on corner meetings in Islamabad,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Shehbaz Sharif violates the official secrets act, says Imran Khan
On 14 November, Imran Khan while addressing long march rallies criticized Shehbaz Sharif for conferring with his elder brother Nawaz Sharif, who was sentenced in two graft cases by an accountability court, on the appointment of the next army chief and termed this consultation a violation of the Official Secrets Act. During his address, Imran Khan said he could not imagine that an “absconder and a convict” was deciding on key issues pertaining to snap elections in the country and the appointment of the next army chief. He further said the “convict” was delaying fresh general elections not for the country’s sake but for himself. Amid poor economic conditions, the only way out for the country is to hold immediate general elections, adding that political stability will result in economic stability as well. (Mansoor Malik, “PM-Nawaz talks violate Secrets Act: Imran,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Imran Khan’s security outsourced to KP Police from provincial police
On 15 November Dawn reported that the deployment of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police commandos for the security of  Imran Khan in Lahore has been taken as a “disgrace” by Punjab police who command a force that is considered as  “most professional and highly-trained” provincial police in the country. The KP government had dispatched 50 well-equipped, highly-trained Elite Force commandos to take over the security of the injured party head ruling the province. The KP police personnel deployed in and around the residence, have strict orders to “independently decide and act” in case of any emergency situation to secure the life of Khan. The Punjab officials say the decision to “outsource” Khan’s security to KP shows the Punjab government’s distrust of its own police force, apprehending that it could further demoralize the already ‘politicized police’ of the province in the prevailing circumstances. (Asif Chaudhry, “Outsourcing of Imran’s security to KP embarrasses Punjab Police,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

PM Shehbaz Sharif to convene a meeting to discuss issues with his allies
On 14 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif landed back home and soon will convene a meeting of his allies in the government to take them into confidence on the series of meetings he held in London with  Nawaz Sharif on key issues such as the appointment of a new army chief and PTI long march on Islamabad. As per media reports, Nawaz and Shehbaz had decided that the issue of appointment of the army chief was a constitutional matter and would be dealt with constitutionally and on merit. On the other hand, Imran Khan had derided the PM for discussing the all-important appointment with his elder brother in an alleged violation of the Official Secrets Act and a breach of a premier’s oath. (Syed Irfan Raza, “‘Unwell’ PM to meet allies soon,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Kissan package approved by ECC with 27 per cent increase in agriculture loan
On 14 November, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved Kissan Package with a 27 per cent increase in agriculture loan target to PKR 1.8 trillion and reshaped Kamyab Jawan Programme and Kamyab Pakistan Programme through consolidation of their similar schemes. At the request of the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the ECC formally approved the enhanced Kissan Package. Under the package, the target for agriculture loan disbursement has been enhanced to PKR 1.802 trillion from PKR 1,419 billion. Another part of the package – fixing of electricity tariff of PKR 13 per unit was withdrawn by the Power Division. The ECC, however, deferred a demand of the ECP for a PKR 47.417 billion supplementary grant for the conduct of general elections. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ECC okays 27pc hike in Kissan loan package,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Population growth accounts to an annual rate of 1.9 per cent, says the UN
On 14 November, in a press release, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) says the population is growing in Pakistan at an average annual rate of 1.9 per cent, and nearly 3.6 children are born to a woman on average in the country. Pakistan is among the eight countries where more than half of the increase in global population leading up to 2050 will be concentrated. The other countries are DR Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, the Philippines and Tanzania. It says that the eight billion population figure is a milestone for humanity and a moment of reflection. It is time for Pakistan to take stock of the situation and act on the issue stating that merely focusing on numbers alone may not present the complete picture and keep counting for evidence-based decisions. (Amin Ahmed, “Pakistan population growing at an annual rate of 1.9pc: UN,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

CLIMATE CHANGE
Pakistan is among the seven countries to receive ‘Global Shield funding’ of COP 27
On 14 November COP 27 summit announced that Pakistan and six other nations facing climate risks called ‘path­finder countries’  will be the first recipients of ‘Global Shield’ funding. Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Fiji, Ghana, the Philippines and Senegal were identified as the other recipients of the package by the Vulnerable 20 Group of Finance Minis­ters (V20) of 58 climate-vulnerable economies and the Group of Seven (G7). The ‘Global Shield’ initiative for pre-arranged financial support has been desi­gned to be quickly deployed in times of climate disasters. According to the joint pre­ss release of V20, G7 and the German Ministry of Eco­nomic Cooperation and Development, the Global Shield will start its implementation immediately after COP27. Initial contributions inc­l­ude around 170m euros from other countries. Further con­tributions by donors are expected to materialize soon. V20 Chair expressed the hope that the funding window will benefit the pre-existing structures whose performance remains to be proven. (Amin Ahmed, “Pakistan among seven states to get climate disaster funding,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan removed from UK’s High-risk countries list
On 14 November, the United Kingdom removed Pakistan from its ‘high-risk third countries’ list through a statutory instrument, effectively meaning the UK  recognizes the progress Pakistan has made to be removed from FATF’s grey list. A notification by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office marked this development, saying the worth of Pakistan’s efforts to improve money laundering and terror financing curbs. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto hailed the development on Twitter, saying it was “good news”. (“Pakistan out of UK’s ‘high-risk countries’ list,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Pakistan and Afghanistan join hands against polio eradication
On 14 November, during the meeting held between the health ministers of Pakistan and Afghanistan said that both countries will jointly eradicate the polio virus. Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel said people of both countries travel on both sides of the border so there was a need to devise a collective strategy to ensure the eradication of the virus in both countries. Both countries have been facing travel restrictions due to which travellers from both countries while travelling abroad, have to carry polio vaccination certificates. Afghan Health Minister Qalandar Ibad said his country valued relations with Pakistan. He said that Pakistan had been establishing three hospitals in Afghanistan and 80 per cent construction work of all hospitals had been completed. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan, Afghanistan join hands against polio,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Sufficient dollar reserves to meet foreign obligations says SBP governor
On 14 November, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad said, “Our reserves are over USD 7.9 billion. They’re more than sufficient to meet any obligations.” Foreign exchange reserves of the SBP dropped USD 956 million on 4 November because of external debt servicing, including a USD 500m commercial loan repayment to China. The SBP governor’s statement coincided with Pakistan’s risk of sovereign default hitting a multi-year high. With regard to the ongoing investigation into the alleged manipulation of the exchange rate by more than eight commercial banks, the SBP governor said the central bank’s team looking into the matter will complete its task by the end of November. (Kazim Alam, “Pakistan has enough dollars to meet foreign obligations, says SBP governor,” Dawn, 15 November 2022)

Risk of default increased to 64.2 per cent
On 14 November, Pakistan’s risk of default, measured through the five-year currency default swap (CDS) index, spiked 4.2 percentage points to a new high at 64.2 per cent , suggesting that the country lacked resources to meet the growing import payments and foreign debt repayments on time. Pakistan is scheduled to repay USD one billion against a five-year Shariah-compliant bond maturing in December 2022. The five-year CDS exhibited a high risk of default after Pakistan announced that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman had postponed his visit to Islamabad and a new date would be announced soon. The crown prince had been expected to announce investments of over USD 10 billion during his trip. The expected inflows would have strengthened Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. (“Pakistan’s default risk spikes,” The Express Tribune, 15 November 2022)

Special Notes
DAY 19 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'
Where is the march?
Punjab government spokesperson, Musarrat Cheema announced the PTI’s plan for the day. He stated that the long march would leave Gujarat under the leadership of Shah Mehmood Qureshi and move towards the first stop at Musa House near Grand City GT Road in Sarai Alamgir. From there the caravan would leave for the second stop of Mirpur Ada in Sarai Alamgir, and an attempt will be made to reach the destination in the evening. Meanwhile, Asad Umar began the long march in Chiniot.

Meanwhile, PTI leader Faisal Javed Khan stated Imran Khan would address the gatherings in Sarai Alamgir, Chiniot, Swabi and Upper Dir. He also said that supporters participated in the long march in Mandi Bahauddin and Jaranwala in “record numbers” on 14 November. Additionally, Imran Khan urged the Insaf Students’ Federation to mobilise youth to ensure their participation in the long march.

Who said what?
Asad Umar while citing a Gallup survey revealed that 88 per cent of Pakistani businesses believe that the country is going in the "wrong direction" claimed that this is a "staggering vote of no confidence in the current setup," adding that elections were the only way to keep the country from "sinking further with each passing day."

Other developments
The Islamabad High Court has scheduled the hearing of the issuance of a no objection certificate (NOC) for PTI’s long march and sit-in in Islamabad for 18 November. The hearing was fixed by IHC CJ Justice Amir Farooq after the petitioner's request to submit additional documents.

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court (LHC) directed law officials to assist the court amid the Constitution and judicial orders till 21 November over a traders association leader's seeking orders to stop PTI’s long march.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
 Advocate Rizwan Abbasi on the legal standing of a second FIR sought by the PTI leadership said, “In any manner whatsoever, no second FIR can be registered on the same subject as per a verdict announced by a full bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan in 2018.” He said, “Khan is not just giving names but is implicating institutions safeguarding the country, something if acceded would please the forces working against Pakistan.” He said it was not understandable why the PTI wanted to lodge the second FIR when its purpose could be resolved if it produced tangible evidence and record its version under Section 161 CrPC.
Pakistan on Twitter
"In 1980s, Jamaat-e-Islami enthusiastically participated in US proxy war in Afghanistan that destroyed our region. Yet, its claiming that Joyland promotes Western agenda. Murdering for dollars is OK but showing transgender characters in a humane way is foreign agenda. Hypocrites!.”
-Ammar Ali Jan

"Smog has become a global problem. They want to use Chinese technology to control smog in Punjab, especially in Lahore. Chinese technology will be beneficial for installing air purification towers in Lahore and other cities..”
-Ch Parvez Elahi
 
 
Also read...

Maleeha Lodhi, When politics breaks down 
Dawn, 14 November 2022
Politics seems to have broken down completely in the country. Amid intensifying polarisation and heightened tensions, political disputes are no longer amenable to resolution by political means. Political rivals either resort to the courts or appeal to the army to promote their objectives... It was telling that the then chief justice of the Islamabad High Court Athar Minallah urged political leaders, during a full court reference last week, not to bring their conflicts to the courts and instead strengthen parliament by resolving these issues in a democratic forum.

Arifa Noor, Losses adding up
Dawn, 15 November 2022
Unfortunately, there is little evidence the party is aware of this, as it continues to simply fret over its loss of political capital. But the latter might be far easier to regain; just one five-year term in these economic conditions may stem the political reversals but the memories of its statements, press conferences and notifications will last much longer.

Editorial, Presidential interest
Dawn, 15 November 2022
The problem is, no opportunity for redemption appears forthcoming at the moment. What ‘level playing field’ can be offered to the PML-N instead? Perhaps it is best that someone like President Alvi is actively looking for solutions rather than leaving politics to Mr Khan and the Sharifs alone.

Mosharraf Zaidi, Pakistan’s Big Lie and Great Truth
The News International, 15 November 2022
The existing PAS dominated decision-making system has already collapsed. It is held together by the helplessness of politicians, the benefits afforded to Pindi of invisible governance via DCs, and the paralysis of bright and honest individual officers. In sum however even with a perfect set of the existing mechanisms, processes and systems, the Pakistani state is incapable of serving its people. It demands urgent and immediate structural alterations.

Editorial, The narrative that wasn’t
The News International, 15 November 2022
It seems that Imran Khan and his party are all too willing to use a post-truth world to spin tales of intrigue – which can sound plausible given the way the US has operated around the world – and then once the narrative is exhausted to backtrack, take a U-turn and hop on to yet another chronicle of persecution.

Editorial, Joy of banning
The News International, 15 November 2022
Pakistan seems to have a case of ban, rinse, repeat nearly every year. From YouTube bans to film bans, it seems all our people and governments hold is apathy or disgust at our own creative potential… That this comes at a time when Pakistan has garnered global attention for the work of some of its bright young artists is disappointing.

Sahibzada Riaz Noor, Democracy — imperfect yet inevitable
The Express Tribune, 15 November 2022
More and not less rule bound democracy, as an antidote to corruption, proves more rather than less effective although the record of corruption by military generals is no more reputable. In rule of law, education, periodic peaceful changes of government and absence of extra democratic engineering lies our future. Democracy is imperfect yet inevitable.

Abbas Moosvi, COP(-out) 27
The Express Tribune, 15 November 2022
Addressing symptoms rather than the underlying illness will always be an exercise in futility. Time is ticking and large scale reparations via debt waivers are due for unfettered industrialisation, colonial adventures and imperialism through international financial institutions: primarily of the West. Who will act first?

Dr Luay Shabaneh, Pakistan amidst an eight billion planet
The Express Tribune, 15 November 2022
Any successful family planning should ensure that couples are empowered to choose freely how and when they can have babies. Still, the role of the state and development practitioners and community leaders is to ensure that people have all means — information, services and tools — to make the right choice.

Editorial, Healthcare protests
The Express Tribune, 15 November 2022
While healthcare workers are in their right to protest, they must ensure, because of their profession, that emergency wards, operation theatres and OPDs are functional. Even though the right to protest is a given, it comes with certain conditions. Here, however, the onus lies on government officials to initiate a dialogue and resolve any pending grievances. Force can never be used as the first step.

 



“In the 2023 polls, we have a last chance to avert doom if the new regime does serious restructuring in five years. After that, it may be too late. We had that chance in 2018, but Pindi blew it by acting too wise and imposing a failed experiment. The chances are very low as the tried and failed PDM and PTI are the two choices.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Comeback states

 

 


Imran Khan no longer blaming the US administration for his removal from power


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan no longer blames the US administration for his removal from power
On 13 November, Imran Khan in an interview with Financial Times stated that he no longer “blamed” the US administration for his removal from power. He said, “As far as I’m concerned it is over, it’s behind me,” the newspaper quoted Mr Khan’s comments on the US’s role in the alleged conspiracy. He said, “As far as I’m concerned it is over, it’s behind me…” “Our relationship with the US has been as of a master-servant relationship, or a master-slave relationship, and we’ve been used like a hired gun. But for that I blame my own governments more than the US.” (Mansoor Malik, “PTI chairman Imran Khan no longer blames US for his ouster,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

‘Backdoor’ efforts to reach out to all political players have not been fruitful, says President Alvi
On 14 November, Dawn reported that President Dr Arif Alvi revealed that his ‘backdoor’ efforts to reach out to all political players as well as the powers that be to find a workable solution to end the chaos has not borne fruit as yet. He said, “Backdoor talks are under way with the institutions that matter to sort out the differences (among the players). If the talks succeed, they will be in the public domain. I am playing the role of a mediator as the supreme commander of the armed forces, but I am not a broker.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “No breakthrough in backdoor talks, Alvi admits,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

Arshad Sharif not tortured before death, says official expert
On 11 November, a Kenyan newspaper published a report based on the expert opinion, Arshad Sharif was not tortured before his death. The report says, “The reporting by sections of Pakistan media sought to cast doubt on the official account by Kenyan authorities that the prominent journalist was shot dead [last month in Kenya] by police at a roadblock in a case of mistaken identity.” Dr Ahmed Kalebi, an independent consultant pathologist based in Nairobi who analysed the two post-mortem examination reports to explain the cause of death, he pointed out that the probable time that lapsed between injury and death “was between 10 and 30 minutes.” The pathologist explained from the reports of autopsies done in Kenya and Pakistan, there is no evidence of torture. (“Arshad Sharif ‘not tortured’ before death, says Kenyan expert,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

Government working on ‘Vision 2035’ and ‘Vision 2047’, aims at drawing a “roadmap” for the country
On 13 November, the Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal said that the government is planning a development agenda with the Planning Commission and wants to arrive at a contended roadmap for the country’s socioeconomic growth. He said that the study would start by 2023, and will be a “prelude to developing Pakistan’s Vision 2035 and Vision 2047”. Additionally, he also said that the economy requires “fundamental structural changes” and that the growth of the country can be achieved through a consistent policy framework for the next 10 years. The minister observed that the country’s change in government led to a “major diversion” and that the continuity of policies was left behind, which cost Pakistan an “economic bankruptcy”. He said that the study would entail a national consensus to drive the country towards a more sustainable economic path, and would deal with political uncertainties as they come. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt initiates study for long-term development plan,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Demonstrators rally in Wana against the wave of terrorism
On 13 November, hundreds of people in Wana, South Waziristan took to the streets against the recent wave of terrorism in the region. The gathering titled “peace march” was organised by Wana Siyasi Ittihad (WSI) who demanded that the civil administration fulfil its responsibilities to restore peace in the area, uphold the ban on armed groups in the district, curb the rise of terrorism, address the issue of kidnappings for ransom, the release of parliamentarian Ali and adequate security for the public, contractors and traders. (Sirajuddin, “Hundreds rally in South Waziristan’s Wana against wave of terrorism,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

Balochistan: FC trooper killed in cross-border attack
On 13 November, a Frontier Corps (FC) trooper was martyred and two others sustained injuries in a cross-border attack from Afghanistan in the Chaman area. According to the officials, the FC personnel were deployed on the Pakistani side of Bab-e-Dosti near Chaman when the alleged Afghan security officials opened fire on them. During the exchange of fire between the security officials of the two countries, one FC personnel embraced martyrdom and two others sustained bullet injuries. A flag meeting between the officials of the two countries was held during which Pakistani authorities clarified that the friendship gate will remain closed until the attackers are not handed over to them. The Afghan authorities, however, were of the view that the unidentified terrorists in the guise of Taliban attacked the security personnel in Pakistan. (“FC trooper martyred in cross-border attack from Afghanistan,” The News International, 13 November 2022)

Balochistan: Six miners kidnapped in Mach by unidentified armed men
On 13 November, six coal miners were kidnapped from the Mach coal field in Kachhi. The kidnappers have not been identified yet but were said to be armed and kidnapped the men from mine no. 172. The Mach police have launched a search operation and said that an investigation probe has been launched in the mountainous area of Mach and its surrounding areas for the “early recovery of the kidnapped mine workers.” No group has come forward and claimed responsibility for the kidnappings. (Saleem Shahid, “Six coal miners kidnapped in Mach,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

Islamabad: Discarded waste by food chains and eateries menacing wildlife on Margalla Hills
On 14 November, Dawn reported that the excess dumping of garbage and sewage waste by restaurants and eateries in the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) is leading to serious damage to wildlife and the biodiversity of the area. It reported that there is a lack of a “proper mechanism” for the disposal of waste brought by these outlets and that the MHNP’s fauna is seriously threatened. The rapid increase of urbanisation surrounding the areas of Khyber Pakhtunkwa and the MHNP has led to poor protective mechanisms, with restaurants being established without any Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board has been relatively successful in resisting further damages to the area, with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directing these outlets to stop encroachments and damage. (“Dumping of waste by restaurants threatening wildlife on Margalla Hills,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

CLIMATE CHANGE
The world at COP 27 had the spirit of unity and collaboration but lacked actions, says Sherry Rehman
On 13 November, Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Sherry Rehman said that the world at the global forum of UN Climate COP-27 had a spirit of unity, collaboration and cooperation but there was a lack of action, hindering the way to a climate-resilient future. In her keynote, the minister said that there was a climate clock running at the 27th COP-27 meeting where there were intense negotiations underway. She said, “I am coming from a country where there have been three degrees Celsius rise in overall summer heat which is not habitable for human civilisation. I do not think that we need to be sanguine or indifferent to the coming crisis for humanity and the planet we live on. “The minister at the forum stated that the people have the right to live, breathe, till the soil, farm their communities and work in the cities that are not burning them out. These are fundamental rights. (“Sherry highlights the steep cost of climate ‘inaction’,” The Express Tribune, 14 November 2022)
 
ENERGY
PSO’s liquidity crisis on high-level risks LNG supply in winter
On 14 November, The News International reported that the state-owned Pakistan State Oil (PSO)’s liquidity crisis has swooped to an all-time high with an unprecedented hike in its receivables to PKR 621.168 billion and payables to PKR 268.5 billion. This has made the utility unable to offload its liabilities with regard to LCs amounting to PKR 218.5 billion for the import of furnace oil and LNG. The worrying liquidity crisis has virtually put the LNG supply at risk for the winter season as the receivables and payables of PSO have scaled up to PKR 890 billion. According to an official statement, PSO intimidated the Petroleum Division on 11 November 2022 that its borrowing limit has already reached the maximum level and if the situation continues unabated, it will not be able to further borrow the finances to maintain the LNG supply in future. (Khalid Mustafa, “LNG supply in winter at risk as PSO’s liquidity crisis all-time high,” The News International, 14 November 2022)

SPORTS
England won the T20 World Cup against Pakistan by five wickets
On 13 November, England edged Pakistan by five wickets to win the Twenty20 World Cup and become the sport's first dual white-ball champions, holding both the 50 and 20-over titles. It was England's second T20 crown after tasting success in 2010, joining the West Indies as the only two-time winners since the tournament's inception in 2007. The game was billed as a showdown between Pakistan's attack and England's top order, and Shaheen Afridi bowled danger man Alex Hales in the first over of the run chase. (“Stokes, Curran star as England win T20 World Cup,” The News International, 14 November 2022)

CPEC
Chinese Consul General says four additional corridors are being appended to CPEC
On 13 November, Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren said that four more corridors are being added to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This comes as both China and Pakistan have agreed to the addition during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China. He said that the corridors would be under digital, industrial, green and health spectrums, and would “benefit” both countries. The diplomat also held both countries responsible for the “slowed down” pace of work of CPEC and said that if Pakistan could be in the “driving seat”, they would take ownership of the project. Officials from Pakistan welcomed the move, appreciating China’s relief support of USD 30 billion as imperative. (Amjad Mahmood, “Four corridors being added to CPEC, says Chinese diplomat,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)

Protesters in Gwadar challenge the CPEC projects, warn the government of blockades of passages
On 13 November, hundreds of children joined the protest rally in the port city of Gwadar and gathered with the sit-in, led by Maulana Hidaytur Rehman. 18 days after the protests began, the protesters resorted to threatening the government of a potential blocking of the China-Pakistan Corridor (CPEC) if their demands are not met within seven days. Children from Turbat, Pasni and other areas of the Gwadar district led the protest rallies and carried banners and slogans led with their demands. The protesters demanded the government ban trawling in the city and asked for the cessation of checkpoints. Maulana Rehman condemned the government and said that no negotiations have been made with the protestors, despite the rallies stretching to a third week. (Behram Baloch, “Gwadar protesters threaten to block CPEC projects,” Dawn, 14 November 2022)
 

Special Notes

DAY 18 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'

Where is the march?
On 14 November, the PTI is scheduled to resume its long march from Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab.  Imran Khan will address the gathering in the evening via a video link while Shah Mahmood Qureshi will address the gathering in the afternoon.

Who said what?
Asad Umar reiterated that the country is standing with the "captain" for its "real freedom." He also promised the demonstrators that neither Imran Khan nor “anyone else from the captain’s team” would abandon the campaign for ‘Haqeeqi Azadi’ before achieving success. He said, “We will not stop or bow down. We are standing resolutely until we win,” urging the marchers to commit to “coming out on Imran’s call for Islamabad.”

Imran Khan stated that the PTI is on the streets as it is only demanding free and fair elections. He said, “Many people are saying that this march is moving slowly. This march slowed because I was attacked.” Further, he criticised the incumbent leaders for going on tours in the seven months they have been in power. He questioned, “What benefit did the country get from their tours? The country is going down economically, does anyone have a way to save it?”

 

Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 14 November, the PTI approached Supreme Court (SC) registries across Pakistan in calls for the constitution of a judicial commission to probe several “important matters” including the attack in Imran Khan Wazirabad, the alleged refusal to register a first information report of the incident as requested by the complainant, the purported video of PTI Senator Azam Swati and his wife as well as the killing of journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya.

Statements from the PTI
Meanwhile, Imran Khan called on the Chief Justice of Pakistan to be “more assertive” and “stand with the people of the country.”

Statements from the Government
PML-N leader Attaullah Tarar claimed Imran Khan was using the attempt on his life in Wazirabad for “political gains.” He said, “The PTI wants a separate law for itself.”

Pakistan on Twitter

"As long as the unelected people continue to occupy and own Pakistan, the system cannot change. A grade 20 registrar can disrespect the representatives of millions of voters by standing at the door and talking about democracy and the supremacy of parliament. A systematic campaign against this system is the need of the hour.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"U-turn Khan has taken the biggest U-turn in his dual political history. By creating the pretense of a supposed foreign conspiracy and causing diplomatic damage to Pakistan, they are now saying that the Cipher issue has been left behind. Now I will not blame. Who is responsible for the diplomatic damage caused to the country by his false narrative?”
-Sherry Rehman

"Winning and losing is part of the game. Congratulations to the Pakistan team for reaching and playing in the final. Team Pakistan came out of a very difficult situation and reached the final. England team played better today and won. Win or lose with a smile that is sportsmanship."
-Ahsan Iqbal

 

Also read...

Durr-E-Shahwar Siddiqui, A polio-free Pakistan
The Express Tribune, 14 November 2022
It is very unfortunate that the polio immunisation program still has intense resistance in Pakistan due to certain myths, low literacy as well as social, cultural and political hurdles. Hence, we are unable to achieve a polio-free country status despite the immense international-level endeavours of yesteryears.

Editorial, Climate investment
The Express Tribune, 14 November 2022
The ‘Country Climate and Development Report’ for Pakistan prepared by the World Bank and presented at the UN climate summit estimates that a total investment of $348 billion is required to meet climate and development challenges between the years 2023-2030.

Nadeem Iqbal, What is the cost of a protest?
The News International, 14 November 2022
Never has the constitutional right of assembly ever been put to the test till now. This has now changed. While the federal government wants to curb this right in the public interest, the Punjab government supports it… People cannot be denied their right to hold protests in front of parliament or the Supreme Court, but this right can only be ensured when the government gives a policy outlining crowd-proportionate locations and timeframes to hold protests or rallies.

Amna Ejaz Rafi, Evolving power dynamics
The News International, 14 November 2022
China has established its footprints in the Indo-Pacific region while the US is trying to retain its stronghold. Other emerging players like Japan, Australia and India, as part of alliances, are also trying to gain influence in the region.The interests of various political actors in the region have instigated competitive tendencies. America’s strategic manoeuvring in the region is targeted at a potential challenger, China.

Editorial, The way out
The News International, 14 November 2022
Pakistan’s politics of late has been chaotic, best described by ‘stalemate’, ‘quagmire’, ‘paralysis’, ‘clash of narratives’ and so on. Although, for many, things have already come to an unforgivable pass, for the country’s economy and its people’s general wellbeing it is time now to actively look for a way out before it’s much too late. Perhaps this applies the most to Imran Khan and his PTI.
 
 

 



“A depoliticised police force is often recommended as the only solution to all internal security challenges, including maintaining public order in times of political turmoil. Such a police force is a long-awaited dream in Pakistan.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Policing and the right to protest

 
 

 

 

 


Imran Khan gets tightened security


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
JIT gets its head and a member changed by the government
On 10 November, the Punjab government changed the head and a member of the joint investigation team (JIT) a day after it constituted the body to probe the high-profile case of an assassination attempt on Imran Khan in Wazirabad. It is the second major change as the PTI top leaders objected to some names of the police officers proposed by the Punjab police and the provincial government. The government has appointed DG Khan Regional Police Officer Syed Khurram Ali Shah as head of the JIT. Mr Khurram has replaced DIG Tariq Rustam Chohan who was the head of the previous JIT proposed by the Parvez Elahi government on 9 November. (Asif Chaudhary, “Wazirabad JIT gets a makeover after ‘hiccup’,” Dawn, 12 November 2022)

Tightened security for Imran Khan
On 12 November, Dawn reported that the security of Imran Khan has been beefed up in the wake of an assassination attempt during PTI‘s long march. In this regard, concrete blocks have been placed around Khan’s Zaman Park residence. Police check-posts have also been set up at the entry and exit points of Zaman Park and record of the visitors to the locality is also being maintained by Punjab government. A special contingent of commandos from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also reached to take charge of his security, while the number of local police personnel has been increased with the inclusion of policewomen, to frisk the women visitors .(“Imran’s security beefed up,” Dawn, 12 November 2022)

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announces COAS will be ‘decided constitutionally’
On 11 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following his meetings with Nawaz Sharif and other party leaders in London, said that the chief of army staff (COAS)’s appointment would be determined “constitutionally” and that the senior-most officer would be the next army chief of Pakistan. He said that it was a “constitutional matter” before departing to Pakistan. Khwaja Asif of the PMLN said that the decision will be “taken with consultation after the start of the constitutional process”. The meetings came as the Sharif brothers discussed matters of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) as well. (Murtaza Ali Shah, “London huddle decides: Senior-most general to be made COAS,” The International News, 12 November 2022)

Supreme Court affirms ECP’s request against PTI’s contempt notices
On 11 November, the Supreme Court announced a hearing for the ECP petition to be on 15 November. The petition will be heard by CJP Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ayesha Malik and Justice Athar Minallah. The petition requests to consolidate and transfer all challenges pending before different high courts regarding its contempt notice against PTI leaders, to one high court. The petitions will allow the ECP to take action against the PTI under Section 10 of the Elections Act 2017. The ECP in previous petitions were barred from taking any action against the PTI as various courts ruled in favour of the party. (“SC fixes ECP's plea against PTI's challenges to contempt notices,” The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022)

POLITICS
Sharif’s murder a targeted killing and not a mistaken identity says Rana Sanaullah
On 11 November, Rana Sanaullah while speaking on the Geo Pakistan show accused the two brothers who hosted Arshad Sharif in Kenya of being in cahoots with Kenyan police over the journalist’s murder. The minister termed Mr Sharif’s murder a “target killing” and said that this was not a case of “mistaken identity”. He alleged that the two brothers had Mr Sharif killed along with the Kenyan police and then tried to paint a different picture. He said, “The brothers aren’t even providing [investigators] access to their mobile phone data.”(“Minister accuses hosts of role in Arshad Sharif’s killing,” Dawn, 12 November 2022)

Imran Khan regrets lack of enforcement of rule of law, says appointment of COAS should be ‘based on merit’
On 11 November, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan emphasised that the criteria for the next army chief’s appointment should be merit-based and that the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) Nawaz would base its decision based on “who will save his misdeeds”. He criticised PM Shehbaz for consulting Nawaz Sharif for the appointment of the army chief and said that Nawaz Sharif “always brings up” the man who is “beneficial” to him. Speaking of the country’s prosperity, Imran Khan said that Pakistan would never prosper if there was no rule of law, and said that “weaker people go to jail” because of the lack of a strong rule of law. He condemned the government for trying to control institutions, and said that “institutions cannot apprehend the powerful”. (“Imran Khan regrets he failed to enforce rule of law,” The International News, 12 November 2022)

Stay appeal made by Shehbaz Sharif denied by UK court
On 9 November, a UK High Court judge ordered Shehbaz Sharif and his son-in-law Imran Ali Yousaf to file a reply in a defamation suit they brought against the publisher of Mail and also ordered him to pay the sum of 30,000 pounds in costs to the defendant by 23 November. In 2019, the paper published an article alleging that Shehbaz Sharif had stolen and laundered the UK government’s aid money while he was chief minister of Punjab. Mr Sharif filed a defamation claim against the “grotesque allegation” in January 2020, claiming a retraction, damages and an apology. In March this year, the newspaper submitted a 50-page response to Shehbaz Sharif’s defamation suit.(“ Shehbaz’s plea for stay on defamation case denied by UK court,” Dawn, 12 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Cabinet approves proposal of adjournment of local government elections in Karachi for three months
On 11 November, the  Cabinet agreed to a proposal that sought the suspension of the second phase of the local government (LG) elections in Karachi and Hyderabad for the next three months. A letter written by the Sindh LG to the Election Commission of Pakistan says that the cabinet “by way of circulation” approves the proposal. The Sindh government had written to the ECP earlier to make an announcement of the date on which the polls should be conducted in the province, and to ramp up the police force when the elections commence. The government also informed the ECP that the Sindh Police would “perform duties” in Islamabad at the Interior Ministry’s request to take care of the PTI’s long march. The ECP has fixed 15 November as the date of the hearing of the case of Karachi LG polls. (“Sindh cabinet okays deferment of Karachi LG polls for 90 days,” The International News, 12 November 2022)

ENERGY
Reduction of PKR 5.13 per unit for KE consumers notified by NEPRA
On 11 November, NEPRA notified a reduction of PKR 5.13 per unit for K-Electric consumers on account of fuel cost adjustment (FCA) for electricity consumed in September. Under the notification, KE is now required to refund about Rs8.6 billion to consumers through adjustment in the current billing month, i.e. November. The revised rate would apply to all the consumer categories except lifeline domestic consumers consuming up to 300 units, agriculture consumers and electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) consumers of K-Electric. This is the third month in a row that FCA for KE’s consumers was lower than the reference tariff. This partly reduced the burden of record-breaking increases in FCAs over the past many months going beyond PKR 11 per unit. (“ KE consumers to get Rs8.6bn refund in next bill,” Dawn, 12 November 2022)

Ministry faces challenges to repeal benefits like free electricity, says Power Minister
On 11 November, Power Minister Khurram Dastgir said that the ministry is struggling to take back benefits to the employees of government-owned power sector entities, and said that the ministry needs help. He explained that the supply of free electricity to the employees of power distribution companies was on par with their job agreement, and said that they are “entitled” to this facility. He expressed that the employees reacted sharply when the ministry sought to withdraw these benefits and that the possibility of the facility could be taken back with the support of public representatives. Further, he added that the sector spent PKR 98.72 million on repair and maintenance of transformers during the year 2021-2022. He said that the ministry has issued directives to balance the distribution and facilities of the sector. (“Minister faces resistance to abolish ‘free electricity’,” The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022)

ECONOMY
SBP Governor informs Senate panel of an inquiry against manipulation of currency, says will finish by end of November
On 11 November, the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan  (SBP) Jameel Ahemd informed the Senate panel of an inquiry against the manipulation of currency with the contended involvement of banks for gaining “lofty” profits would be completed by the end of November. The government asked the SBP to impose maximum penalties against banks that were involved in making big profits, and said to place “effective deterrence”. The SBP General said that the bank had imposed USD 30,000 payment through credit cards, and that this would save USD 500 million of total payments. Additionally, he said that the ongoing inquiry has widened to more banks, and that the SBP has seen an overall increase in forex income due to “heightened volatility”. (Mehtab Haider, “Currency manipulation: Inquiry to be completed by month-end, says SBP,” The International News, 12 November 2022)

Inflation rises by 0.74 per cent for the week, data shows year on year inflation will ease into 29.24 per cent 
On 11 November, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported that the year-on-year inflation decreased from 30.6 per cent to 29.24 per cent on 10 November. At the same time, the PBS reported that weekly inflation was increasing from 0.53 per cent last week to 0.74 per cent this week. It noted that the prices of 22 items increased, 14 items decreased and 15 items remained stable of the total 51 surveyed. (Irshad Ansari, “Weekly inflation up by 0.74%,” The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022)

Pakistan asks China to fund USD 500 million in refinancing, says it will improve forex reserves
On 11 November, Pakistan requested China to refinance a USD 500 million commercial loans that it had paid back to China in the previous week, following the depletion of its forex reserves by USD 956 million. The most major debt repayments that happened last week include the repayment of the GOP commercial loans. The country’s reserves decreased due to external debt servicing, and the refurbishment of these loans would improve the reserves in the coming weeks. The funds would be of imperative value to the country, where the USD 13 billion packages along with UAE would shape the rollover of deposits and ramp up the investment opportunities in Pakistan. (“Shoring up foreign reserves: Pakistan requests China for $500m loan refinancing,” The International News, 12 November 2022)

Special Notes

DAY 16 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March'

Where is the march?
The “Haqeeqi Azadi” march will resume from  Lala Musa. Apart from this, a march will also be held in Jhang under the leadership of Asad Umar. Addressing a rally in Jhang, the ex-planning minister urged the supporters of Imran to stand by their party leader during the current struggle.

Musarrat Cheema added that Caravans are leaving from different parts of the country under the leadership of the central leadership and will reach Rawalpindi together.

Who said what?
PTI leader Asad Umar has said the “Haqeeqi Azadi” is not just Imran Khan’s “war” and that the “people of the country are also an equal part of it.”

Imran Khan has called on the nation to participate in the party’s long march for future generations. Imran Khan said, “If we act like sheep, then God will let us remain like this,” urging the nation to fight for their freedom and their rights. He went on to say that nations seldom had the chance to change their fate but said that now was the time for Pakistan.
PTI vice chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi says he believes Imran Khan will become the prime minister again. He said, “Salute to the passion and spirit of the people of Gujarat. From city to city is one voice, ‘Prime Minister Imran Khan’.”

Other developments surrounding the march
Security of Imran Khan has been beefed up in the wake of an attempt on his life during the long march after an alert issued by the police’s Special Branch. Concrete blocks and police check posts have been placed around Khan’s Zaman Park residence.
 

Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
The Punjab government has changed the head and a member of the joint investigation team (JIT) a day after it constituted the body to probe the high-profile case of an assassination attempt on Imran khan. The government made changes and notified the ‘amended JIT’.It is the second major change as the PTI top guns objected to some names of the police officers proposed by the Punjab police and the provincial government. The Punjab government has appointed DG Khan Regional Police Officer Syed Khurram Ali Shah as head of the JIT.

the security of Imran Khan has been beefed up in the wake of an assassination attempt during PTI‘s long march. In this regard, concrete blocks have been placed around Khan’s Zaman Park residence. Police check-posts have also been set up at the entry and exit points of Zaman Park and record of the visitors to the locality is also being maintained by the Punjab government. A special contingent of commandos from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also reached out to take charge of his security, while the number of local police personnel has been increased with the inclusion of policewomen, to frisk the women visitors.

Pakistan on Twitter

"The real problem of Pakistan is that the decision-makers are not accountable to the people. Decisions are made in closed rooms and imposed on the people. Only then will the people participate in decision-making.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"Pakistan's judicial system is only strong against the weak, today the judge of the British court imposed a heavy fine on Shahbaz Sharif, so people were surprised, how is this? We have become a consortium of unelected people who protect each other's interests and the people and justice have become worthless.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"In political battle’s Government is loosing economic battle and miserably someone must take care of economy after all “It’s Economy Stupid."
-Ch Fawad Hussain
 

Also read...

 

Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, Truth is the biggest casualty
The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022
With the attack on the person of Imran Khan in Wazirabad, followed by the release of Azam Swati video, the political environment in the country has further been made toxic. Emotive discussions for and against indicate the highest level of polarisation and radicalisation.

Dr.Usama Ehsan Khan, Anomalies in Pak-Africa bilateral trade regime
The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022
Pakistan’s trade volume with Africa has reached the historic level of $6 billion in 2021. However, trade balance has heavily been tilted in the favour of Africa since 2015. According to ITC’s Trademap, imports were recorded at $4.5 billion in 2021 as opposed to $2.6 billion last year, posting a robust growth of 70.5%. However, sluggish growth in exports can be seen as it only expanded from $1.4 billion to $1.48 billion over the same period.

Editorial, Retirement resolve
The Express Tribune, 12 November 2022
The army chief is keeping his words. As per his desired intent, he plans to doff the uniform at the end of his extended six-year tenure this month. His resolve to move on is certainly paving the way for a smooth transition, and is in line with the highest values of professionalism of the armed forces. General Qamar Javed Bajwa these days is calling on farewell visits, and the other day he visited Sialkot and Mangla garrisons. His decision not to seek an extension, which is anyway forthcoming for him as political forces across the board had hinted at it in an endeavour to further stability, speaks high of his judgment to uphold national and institutional interests.

Muhammad Waqar Rana ,The quest for prosperity
The News International, 12 November 2022
Pakistan’s highway to prosperity and stability goes through India. And India’s entry to the developed world depends on its cooperation with Pakistan. Prosperity and peace in South Asia can only be achieved through the principle of workability… The bitterness and distrust created by military conflicts in the next four decades did not allow them to work out a permanent solution to their problems. In real terms, despite denials, both countries missed out on the true blessings of peace and prosperity.

Yasir Abbas, Gilgit-Baltistan’s federal dependency
The News International, 12 November 2022
Pakistan has seen frequent political shifts, with no prospects of a civilian government ever finishing a term without any turbulence. The impact of such impetuous shifts in politics has been disastrous for the country. Such impacts are not limited to the constitutionally recognized federating units; their tremors are felt both in Gilgit-Baltistan and the Kashmir region. Both of these regions are irrelevant in national electoral politics.

Editorial, Unsustainable politics
The News International, 12 November 2022
As Pakistan moves towards a finale of the largely unfounded and wishful thinking inspired speculations involving the month of November. As a London huddle by the prime minister and his party’s de-facto head Nawaz Sharif makes some important decisions regarding the future not just of the PDM but perhaps also of an agitating Imran Khan’s next steps – placing the constitution above all other considerations – there is hope that the recent political paralysis the country has been put through will gradually ease as the month nears its end.

Editorial, Criminal impunity
The news International, 12 November 2022
November 2 saw International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, yet another reminder of how vulnerable journalists have become in the world – and more so in Pakistan…In countries such as Pakistan which is a Commonwealth member there are serious shortcomings that curtail the independence of media. Just recently Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif was brutally murdered in Kenya, his murder still shrouded in mystery.

Editorial, A political solution
Dawn, 12 November 2022
Earlier this year, the parties that make up the present dispensation made a constitutional effort to dislodge the sitting prime minister. They publicly cited his poor management of the economy as their motivation for demanding a vote of no-confidence but were privately worried he was plotting to co-opt a sympathetic army chief in a bid to perpetuate his reign.

Editorial, Multiple seats
Dawn, 12 November 2022
A private bill moved in the National Assembly by an opposition lawmaker seeking limits on the number of seats a candidate can run for in elections raises a key issue affecting Pakistan’s electoral dynamics…The proposed bill seeks to prevent candidates from running for more than two seats simultaneously. While the trend of running from multiple constituencies, often in different parts of the country, is not a new one, the issue attracted greater attention when PTI chief and former premier Imran Khan coasted to victory in six of the seven constituencies he stood from in last month’s by-elections.

 

“The government retains a constitutional right to complete its remaining tenure, but calling an election now seems a more reasonable route to take.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘A political solution'

 

 

 


COAS Bajwa visiting Sialkot and Mangla garrisons as part of his farewell tour


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
MILITARY
COAS Bajwa visits Sialkot and Mangla garrisons as part of his farewell tour
On 10 November, ISPR in a press release said, “General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), visited Sialkot and Mangla garrisons as part of his farewell visits to various formations.” This comes as COAS Bajwa is set to retire on 29 November at the end of his extended tenure. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Gen Bajwa bids adieu to more formations on farewell tour,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

JUDICIARY
Judiciary cannot assume the role of the executive, says CJP Bandial
On 10 November, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial said that the judiciary cannot assume the role of the executive even though the suo motu jurisdiction provided the Supreme Court an opportunity to look into matters involving breach of fundamental rights. This observation was made during the hearing of a case related to amendments in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) law challenged by Imran Khan through his counsel Khawaja Haris Ahmed. (Nasir Iqbal, “Judiciary cannot assume role of executive, says CJP,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

Supreme Court rejects appeal of Pemra to suspend the licenses
On 10 November, the Supreme Court rejected an appeal filed by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) against a Sindh High Court’s decision that had declared as illegal the delegation of powers to the Pemra chairman of suspending the broadcast media licenses without framing any rules. Senior counsel Faisal Siddiqi, who represented the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), argued that suspension of the license even for a short while could destroy the business of a news channel and would lead to its closure. He contended that the delegation of such powers solely to the chairman destroys the remedy enjoyed by the TV channels to an independent regulatory body. Justice Ahsan said, “It was not understood why Pemra had not been able to frame rules for the delegation of powers over the past 20 years. Even though over a year has passed since the high court’s judgment, Pemra has still not framed any rules to structure these discretionary powers and hence the decision taken during the 2020 meeting was declared to be void.”(“SC throws out Pemra plea on powers to suspend licenses,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

CPEC style authority to monitor Reko Diq, says CJP Bandial 
On 10 November, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial advised the government to have a clear policy within a month to form a body like CPEC authority to sustain fresh concessions granted for copper and gold mining in the Reko Diq town of Balochistan. He said such a policy would ensure transparency and help the apex court if it is done before 16 December, the cut-off date after which Pakistan may attract another USD two billion penalties by the International Chamber of Commerce on top of a USD 6.4 billion fine slapped in 2019 by World Bank’s arbitration court. The CJP stressed that when the government was looking for justification for the relief it was granted to the investor for not only offering a mining opportunity but also settling the huge liability in the shape of an international award, Supreme Court’s judges were not financial experts and could only analyse the agreement on its legal aspects. (Nasir Iqbal, “CJP Bandial suggests CPEC-style authority to monitor Reko Diq,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)
 
CLIMATE CHANGE
Pakistan asks for emergency climate funds at COP27 Summit, says country is facing a ‘new climate control’
On 10 November, Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman said that Pakistan will “not be satisfied” if the United Nations climate summit negotiators do not provide urgent cash for Pakistan to rebuild its economy after the floods. In an interview with Reuters, she said that “dystopia” had reached Pakistan, and the “glacial pace” of climate diplomacy is not meeting the needs of the country. Further, she added that “political advances” hold less meaning to the struggles that people in Pakistan face, and there needs to be a “transfer” of resources in the future. She also said that unless there is considerable progress in climate change discussions, Pakistan cannot consider them a win. She appreciated the efforts of the US, UK and other countries for their calls to “overhaul” financial institutions to “better” respond to disasters that plague countries like Pakistan. (“Pakistan at COP27 demands climate aid, says ‘dystopia’ already here,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

ENERGY
Natural gas will be rationed in the winter as Pakistan sees no option, says Petroleum Division 
On 10 November, the Petroleum Division said that Pakistan had no other alternative except to ration its natural gas in the coming winter, in a parliamentary panel. Officials testifying before the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Petroleum assured that “every effort” would be made to ensure gas supply to domestic consumers consistently sectioned throughout the day. The panel was told that local gas production was decreasing by 10 per cent every year and that there would be no indigenous supply if the situation persists. The division also told the panel that LNG diversion would be a challenging process as well because LNG is an expensive purchase and it would not be viable to sell it at cheaper rates. Further, officials added that priority would be given to domestic consumers and that the gas supply would be divisded onto captive plants. (Khaleeq Kiani, “‘Govt has no option but to ration gas in winter’,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
FM Bilawal meets with Saudi Arabia's foreign minister
On 10 November, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud met to discuss a variety of issues ranging from political and security spheres. In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the report said that the two ministers chaired the first session of the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Committee (SPCC), and expressed their hope to strengthen the cooperation “across the entire spectrum.” They shared their analyses of the dynamics of regional and global environments, and emphasised their support for “safety and security”. Bilawal appreciated the existing military and defence ties between the countries and asked for further bolstering cooperation in the area. (“Pakistan, Saudi FMs discuss security,” The Express Tribune, 11 November 2022)

Ishaq Dar and UAE executives gather to seek financial support, want to sell shares of state-owned companies
On 10 November, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar travelled to Abu Dhabi to discuss financing support through the selling of minority shares of state-owned companies. Dar met with top management brass of public sector entities and discussed investment opportunities in Pakistan. Dar’s visit is also going to entail Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visiting the UAE, who is supposed to arrive on 13 November. UAE ensured that its top state-owned firms and wealth funds could pick 10-15 per cent shareholding of publicly listed entities. Dar discussed the “specific interest” in investing in energy, healthcare and other sectors. Pakistan was expecting consistent investments from these companies, but the change in ministry delayed the follow-up and is unable to make any further progress. (“Dar meets top UAE execs in bid to secure financial aid,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

Decisions to improve security and boost trade in the Pakistan-Iran joint border commission meeting
On 10 November, the two-day meeting of the 24th meeting of the Pakistan-Iran joint border commission ended, deciding to take steps to improve security, boost trade and stop illegal border crossing and smuggling. An official statement said, “It was agreed that both countries would cooperate with each other to maintain law and order on both sides of the border, adding that strict measures would be taken to curb human smuggling and drug business.” Balochistan Chief Secretary Abdul Aziz Uqaili said the objective of the annual joint border commission meeting was to promote and strengthen regional trade in an organized way so that it could benefit both countries. Governor Marhamti said he agreed with the views of the Pakistan delegation and hoped that the decisions taken in the meeting would be implemented by both sides. (Saleem Shahid, “Pakistan and Iran agree to boost trade, curb smuggling,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Forex reserve sees a reduction of USD 956 million due to debt payments
On 10 November, Pakistan's central bank registered a reduction of USD 956 million in its foreign exchange reserves due to debt payments, which fell to USD 7.96 billion. In a statement, the State Bank of Pakistan said the total liquid foreign reserves held by the country stood at USD 13.72 billion. Net foreign reserves held by commercial banks clocked in at USD 5.76 billion after a reduction of USD 2 million. The SBP further said that refinancing of these loans was in the process which would improve foreign exchange reserves in the coming weeks. (“Debt servicing: SBP-held forex reserves fall to $7.96b,” The News International, 11 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Death sentence for suicide attackers of Kohistan bus bombing
On 10 November, the Anti-Terrorism Court awarded a death sentence to two men after convicting them for planning the 14 July 2021 suicide attack on the bus of Chinese engineers in Kohistan.  Mohammad Hussain and Mohammad Ayaz of Matta tehsil in Swat district was convicted for planning the bus bombing, which killed 13 people, including nine Chinese workers, and injured over 23 passengers. ATC judge Sajjad Ahmad Jan announced judgement in the case in the Haripur prison in the presence of the accused. (Muhammad Sadaqat, “Two get death over Chinese bus attack in Kohistan,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Centre pushes the province into bankruptcy by withholding its due share, says Finance Minister
On 10 November the government accused the centre of pushing the province into bankruptcy by withholding its due share in federal transfers and net hydel profit as well as allocations for the merged tribal districts. provincial finance minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra addressing a press conference said the federal government’s actions had so far denied the provincial government around Rs120 billion from its due share. The minister said the slowdown was also aimed at ensuring uninterrupted spending for flood rehabilitation across the province. The minister also complained that the federal government unilaterally suspended the Sehat Card free healthcare programme for tribal districts costing the province Rs4 billion in the current fiscal. The minister said a meeting would take place on 11 November to discuss legal courses regarding the denial of the province’s resources by the centre. (“Centre pushing KP into bankruptcy by withholding funds: Jhagra,” Dawn, 11 November 2022)

Special Notes
DAY 15 of PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March’
Where is the march?
Shah Mahmood Qureshi while addressing a press conference said that the long march will move towards Gujrat after the Zuhr prayers. He said, “We have selected two points […] Rehmat Elahi Chowk and then the cavalcade will reach the GTS Chowk where Imran Khan will address supporters […] screens have been set up there.” 

Asad Umar who is leading another march reached Toba Tek Singh and addressed supporters. He urged them to join Imran’s “struggle for real freedom.”

Additionally, Imran Khan would address the gathering via video link in Gujrat.

Who said what?
Imran Khan called on all PTI workers to end roadblocks as the long march resumes towards Islamabad.
Asad Umar claimed that  Imran Khan would not let a bulletproof shield come between him and the people.
 
Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 10 November, the Punjab government formed a five-member joint investigation team to probe the assassination attempt on Imran Khan and the subsequent registration of the FIR in the case by the Wazirabad police. The JIT was formed by the Punjab Home Department at the request of Punjab Police chief. The JIT will be headed by DIG (Establishment-II), CPO Lahore and will comprise of four members.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused Imran Khan of attempting to ruin Pakistan through his agitation. However, he claimed, “Defeat is the destiny of those who are doing the long march.”
 
Statements from Imran Khan and PTI
Imran Khan urged the chief justice of Pakistan to initiate a probe into the assassination incident and investigate and uphold justice to ensure that Pakistan did not become a banana republic. Further, he reiterated, “army officer Maj Gen Faisal Naseer masterminded and monitored my assassination plan.”
 
Pakistan on Twitter
"There are two political realities in Pakistan, the distance between Imran Khan and the army is a threat to the integrity of Pakistan. should."
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"National Democratic Movement Chairman Mohsin Dawar met President Ashraf Ghani. In the meeting, there was a detailed discussion on the situation in Afghanistan and the region."
-National Democratic Movement

"So, this Sunday, it’s: 152/0 vs 170/0 ðŸ‡µðŸ‡° ðŸ‡¬ðŸ‡§ #T20WorldCup."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 
Also read...
 
Faisal Bari, Difference and obligations
Dawn, 11 November 2022
Clearly, some obligations are present for us as individuals, as a society and for our state as well. Where children with disabilities are concerned we are failing in our obligations, and quite significantly. I give no solutions in this article as solutions are aplenty. The real question is, as individuals and as a society, do we want to move towards these solutions or not?

Syeda Zahra Shah Subzwari, The precarious lives of politicians
Dawn, 11 November 2022
Political polarisation has caused the country to become more violently divided. For the sake of Pakistan’s future, its politicians need to stop inciting hatred against rival political parties, which makes the public even less tolerant than they are and gives the outside world more opportunities to paint Pakistan in a negative light than it already does. Instead of just seeing red, they need to reach a consensus.

Syed Mohammad Ali, A flawed global food system
The Express Tribune, 11 November 2022
The Ukraine conflict has triggered a major disruption of grain exports causing a serious global food crisis. Food inflation has spiked, which is resulting in greater food insecurity for poorer households the world over. However, this is not the first or last time that we will be confronted by food insecurity.

Shahzad Chaudhary, Getting the country together
The Express Tribune, 11 November 2022
We are a nation de-tracked — socially, politically and economically. When did it all begin is obvious. Who all contributed to getting here from a level of weak normalcy, Mistakes happened. Hindsight informs certain steps could have been avoided and weak normalcy is better than no normalcy …Elite culture, weaker institutions and a poor tradition of selective application of law have however meant that those targeted were able to escape the gauntlet.

Editorial, Interest free economy
The Express Tribune, 11 November 2022
After almost a decade of litigation, the Federal Shariat Court had declared interest (Riba) un-Islamic, and directed the government to frame relevant laws by December 2027, accordingly. This led to a suit wherein the central bank expressed its inability on grounds of a deeply-encrypted capitalist system in vogue.

Editorial, Interest-free economy
Dawn, 11 November 2022
Conversion to a riba-free financial system, or what some describe as Islamic finance, demands thorough and extensive research to understand and define what really constitutes riba. That is important because the shift to an interest-free economy in a complex, globally integrated financial system can be extremely challenging if not impossible.

Aasim Sajjad Akhtar, Climate farce
Dawn, 11 November 2022
The struggle for climate justice, then, is both global and local. It is, I repeat, the single most important concern of our times. And for the record, it is not unrelated to the shenanigans of Pakistan’s ruling class; just the same way that Western ‘experts’ and negotiators seek to camouflage their own class and imperialist interests through ‘greenwashing’, our ruling class would rather that we obsess about palace intrigues forever rather than interrogate their ruthless profiteering.

Editorial, Now or never
The News International, 11 November 2022
The calls for climate justice and climate solidarity are timely and must be responded to positively. After COP27, it is for Pakistan to prepare for an international conference specifically focusing on bringing together all development partners for rehabilitation and reconstruction work in the country. As Pm Sharif told members of COP27, the situation is "it is now or never...For us, there is indeed no Planet B."
 

With little likelihood of the federal government capitulating, we appear headed towards confrontation which may also lead to an influx of a level of violence to further vitiate the political environment. The march is not melting away. Instead, its second launch will be much more robust and charged than before.” 

-An opinion in The News International on ‘Assassination blues

 

 


Shehbaz Sharif visiting London to discuss important issues with Nawaz Sharif


Photo: Dawn



 

Follow-Up: Imran Khan’s assassination probe
Status of the probe
On 9 November, the Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order decided to form a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to probe the attack on Imran Khan. The meeting was chaired by Punjab Parliamentary Affairs Minister Basharat Raja and attended by Chief Minister’s Adviser (Home) Omer Sarfraz Cheema, Chief Secretary Abdullah Khan Sumbal and other officials who participated in the meeting from the civil secretariat. During the meeting, it was decided that Additional Inspector General Highway Patrol Punjab Riyaz Nazir Garah would lead the JIT while other members include representatives from the security agencies concerned.

Meanwhile, Adviser to Punjab Chief Minister on Information Umar Sarfraz Cheema presented the initial forensic report of the Wazirabad incident during a meeting of the PTI’s senior leadership in Lahore. During the meeting, the PTI leadership was told that more than one assailant had targeted Imran Khan in the assassination attempt.

Statements from Imran Khan and PTI
On 9 November, Imran Khan via Twitter stated that he would reveal more names involved in the plot to assassinate him, reiterating that he had discovered the assassination plan against him two months ago. He said, "I had discovered the assassination plot hatched against me almost two months ago & exposed it in RYK 24th Sept & Mianwali 7th Oct public rallies. Wazirabad assassination attempt followed the script." Further, he stated that a second army officer besides the one he’s already named was also involved in the alleged plot, claiming to reveal the name shortly. Additionaly, he reiterated that there were four people involved in the assassination attempt and not just three who he has named earlier.

Meanwhile, during a meeting, the PTI stated that a three-member probe committee would be formed by 11 November, which will provide an investigation done by local police to the joint investigation team.

Statements on the FIR
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) demanded that the registration of the first information report (FIR) of the Wazirabad incident should be done “as demanded by former prime minister Imran Khan.” In a press release issued the SCBA said, “It is the failure of the state, not to register an FIR as demanded by the former Prime Minister which is illegal, without jurisdiction, and is completely in violation of the judgments of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which requires that an F.I.R be registered as per the version of the complainant.”
march?
On 10 November, the PTI is scheduled to resume Its long march from Wazirabad at 4:30 pm, the same spot where Imran Khan was injured during an attempted assassination. This is the third time that the PTI has announced the date for the resumption of the march. The march will be led by Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Asad Umar, who would lead two separate marches towards Chakwal.  The first procession led by Qureshi would continue from Wazirabad while the second procession led by Umar would depart from Toba Tek Singh to Jhang and then to Faisalabad on 11 November. The two groups would then converge before entering Chakwal.

Who said what?
During a PTI meeting, the leaders stated that the party has only one demand: elections should be conducted as soon as possible. The party has also demanded all assemblies be dissolved and a way for early elections be paved across the four provinces. Further, on Imran Khan’s participation in the long march, Fawad Chaudhry stated that the former would join the long march in Rawalpindi in the third week of November.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan urged the people to join the long march stating that his march is the "biggest movement for freedom" in Pakistan’s history.

Other developments surrounding the march
Over 1500 Punjab Highway Patrol personnel (PHP) and officers have been sent to four districts of Punjab including Gujrat, Jhelum, Attock and IGP Reserves to ensure security arrangements are in place during the PTI long march.

DAY 14: Daily update on PTI’s ‘Haqeeqi Azadi March’
Where is the march?
On 10 November, the PTI is scheduled to resume Its long march from Wazirabad at 4:30 pm, the same spot where Imran Khan was injured during an attempted assassination. This is the third time that the PTI has announced the date for the resumption of the march. The march will be led by Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Asad Umar, who would lead two separate marches towards Chakwal.  The first procession led by Qureshi would continue from Wazirabad while the second procession led by Umar would depart from Toba Tek Singh to Jhang and then to Faisalabad on 11 November. The two groups would then converge before entering Chakwal.

Who said what?
During a PTI meeting, the leaders stated that the party has only one demand: elections should be conducted as soon as possible. The party has also demanded all assemblies be dissolved and a way for early elections be paved across the four provinces. Further, on Imran Khan’s participation in the long march, Fawad Chaudhry stated that the former would join the long march in Rawalpindi in the third week of November.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan urged the people to join the long march stating that his march is the "biggest movement for freedom" in Pakistan’s history.

Other developments surrounding the march
Over 1500 Punjab Highway Patrol personnel (PHP) and officers have been sent to four districts of Punjab including Gujrat, Jhelum, Attock and IGP Reserves to ensure security arrangements are in place during the PTI long march.

In Brief

INTERNAL
Senator Mustafa Nawaz formally resigned from parliament after announcing resignation plans
On 10 November, PPP’s Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar formally resigned as a senator two days after he announced plans to vacate his seat in the upper house of parliament. Khokhar tweeted “I have formally submitted my resignation today. I’m thankful for the positive response and support across party lines which was far beyond my imagination,” while referring to the appreciation he had received from politicians, mainly PTI leaders, for stepping down as a senator because of the PPP leadership’s unhappiness with his “political positions”. Khokhar had announced his decision to resign saying he was told that the PPP leadership was unhappy with him over the “positions” he had taken during the recent political developments. (“Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar formally resigns from Senate,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visits London to discuss important issues with Nawaz Sharif
On 9 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reached London to “consult” his elder brother Nawaz Sharif on the appointment of the new army chief of the country, which is happening later this November. This visit comes after the COP27 Summit in Sharm El-Shiekh in Egypt, where all members except for the prime minister have returned to their nations. The Education Minister said that the Prime Minister will be meeting with Nawaz Sharif in a bid to make important discussions, including the issue of the long march, which is starting today, after Imran Khan’s assassination attempt on 4 November. This meeting is criticised by Imran Khan as a “violation of the Official Secrets Act” and termed it a “breach” of the PM’s oath to the country. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Shehbaz in London to ‘consult Nawaz’,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Journalist Arshad Sharif’s belongings go missing from the crime scene, Kenya media reports
On 10 November, Kenyan media said that two pieces of evidence, including a mobile phone and a tablet, which are critical to the investigation of the killing of journalist Arshad Sharif, were reported to be missing from the crime scene. 20 days after the ‘murder’ of the journalist, the police are yet to find incriminating evidence and find the gadgets which are believed to be “stolen” when Sharif was shot. The police have established that Sharif arrived in Kenya on 20 August, and was hosted by two brothers, one of whom was with him in the car when he was shot. The case is refuted by Sharif’s wife, who apparently told Sharif to leave Kenya and seek “political asylum” elsewhere, and that she would take the case to the International Court of Justice as both Pakistan and Kenya are not “providing” her justice. (“Arshad Sharif’s mobile phone, iPad ‘missing’ from crime scene,” Dawn, 10 November 2022) 

Jamaat-i-Islami convenes with PTI’s ask for fresh polls, says new elections ‘only way forward’
On 9 November, Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) leader Sirajul Haq converged with the PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s demand for new elections and said that Pakistan will only come out of the political and economic crises it is in through new elections. He said that electoral reforms should be in “consensus of all political parties” and that elections would be “futile” exercise if not convened with all establishments. He said that these political parties should “hold constructive dialogue” on the basis of a firm rule of law, and end the “role of the establishment” in politics. Further, he added that all parties “should sit together” to reinforce the Election Commission, and be “strong and independent” administratively.(“JI joins PTI’s voice for new elections,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

MILITARY
Meetings sidelined in the context of General Bajwa’s retirement
On 10 November, Dawn reported that there have been concerned stakeholders over Army Chief Qamar Bajwa’s retirement and are mulling potential options that they believe would best protect their interests. In the middle of hectic consultations, a meeting took place at Rawalpindi GHQ presided by Gen Bajwa. The session is a monthly fixture at GHQ, where the top brass discusses the internal and external security situation as well as professional matters. Two things made this meeting extremely important — the impending change of command in the army and the related debates, both within the institution and outside; and the tense political environment in the country. However, no media statement was issued by ISPR, which has remained tight-lipped on the matter despite intense speculation. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Flurry of meetings hints at key decisions to come,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: One tribal leader and several others were injured in a targeted attack in the Khuzdar blast
On 8 November, a tribal leader was killed and five others were injured when their vehicle was targeted with a remote-control bomb near Khuzdar. According to the police, the bomb had exploded when PPP leader Abdul Latif Shahwani was travelling with tribal elder Abdul Ghani Bangulzai, who succumbed to his injuries. (Abdul Wahid Shahwani, “Tribal elder killed in Khuzdar blast,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two constables killed in attack on Waziristan police station
On 8 November, two constables were killed and two others were injured when terrorists opened fire on  police station in Raghzai area of Lower Waziristan tribal district. According to the police, the terrorists used light and heavy weapons, including rockets, in the midnight attack. (Abdul Wahid Shahwani, “Two personnel martyred in attack on Waziristan police station,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: President Alvi suggests alternate dispute resolution mechanisms for resolving disputes in the tribal districts
On 9 November, President Dr Arif Alvi suggested that alternate dispute resolution mechanisms could be adopted in the tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to address the people’s grievances. He said, “Alternate dispute resolution will reduce burden on the conventional justice system besides helping improve the overall law and order situation in the [tribal] region.” Further, he also called for the execution of “financially sustainable and viable development projects and reduction in pilferage in government departments’ expenditure to enhance efficiency and reduce the financial burden on governments.” (“President Alvi advocates alternate dispute resolution in tribal districts,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Sindh: Protesting health workers refuses to resume duties unless demands are met
On 9 November, Protesting healthcare workers refused to resume their duties unless the Sindh government made the withdrawn health risk allowance permanent part of their salaries. Junior doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare workers continued with their sit-in outside the Sindh Secretariat under the aegis of the Grand Health Alliance (GHA) as outpatient departments at public sector hospitals remained closed across the province. There was no breakthrough in negotiations with the government. The leaders of the protest said health department officials can’t even implement the commitments they had made with us. We suspended our protest earlier on their promises. But there was no positive development and we stand by our demand. In fact, the government is forcing us to opt for an extreme step by arresting and suspending our colleagues from service.” Only patients requiring immediate treatment were attended to at the emergency departments. (Faiza Ilyas, “Healthcare providers in Karachi refuse to resume duties until demands met,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Sindh: After effects of floods make conditions of displaced people and newborn babies miserable
On 10 November, Dawn reported that More than 4,000 babies were born in relief camps of flood victims in less than two months fanning concerns of health experts and officials who see these children as the most vulnerable segment of the displaced people in view of the fast approaching winter. Data compiled by the provincial administration and health department suggests that between 9 September and 31 October, a total of 4,118 women gave birth while a large number of these women were facing malnutrition and other health complications. Leaders of the flood victims from local districts said that the administration has failed to clear the stagnant floodwaters, forcing thousands of calamity-stricken people to continue to live in makeshift huts along roads. They demanded Sindh chief minister, chief justice of the Sindh High Court, Sindh minister for irrigation and National Disaster Management Authority ensure immediate draining of floodwaters with the help of machinery so that affected families could restart their lives in their houses and villages and cultivate their farmland. (Imran Ayub, “winter sparks concerns for 4,100 newborn babies in Sindh flood camps,” Dawn, 10 November 2022; “Three months on, Sindh’s Jhuddo taluka still under floodwaters,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

SPORTS
Pakistan wins against New Zealand in T20 World Cup semi-finals
On 9 November, Pakistan won against New Zealand in the ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals by seven wickets. Pakistan will now face either England and India in the world cup finals. Pakistan last claimed the title in 2009 at Lord’s in England when they beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets. (“Politicians, analysts hail Pakistan’s ‘clinical win’ against New Zealand in T20 World Cup semi-final,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Pakistan government to ‘rid’ the country of Riba, insists progress of Islamic financial system
On 9 November, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar announced that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) would be “immediately” removing appeals against a decision of the Federal Shariat Court (FSC) in which it provided the government five years to eliminate Riba or interest-based banking from Pakistan. Further, he added that the FSC, previously, had lent a judgement to “transform” Pakistan’s banking system and bring an end to the Riba within five years. Dar also mentioned the progress that the Islamic financial system has seen in the last five years, and said that it was the government’s priority to “make decisions as per the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah”. He acknowledged the efforts it takes to completely shift into a different system and assured that the government would “try its best” to implement the FSC’s decision “as quickly as possible”. (“‘Seismic shift’ to take interest out of banking sector,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Traditional borrowing of loans continues to affect Pakistan, Ishaq Dar emphasises restructuring of Pakistan’s financial system
On 10 November, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar announced that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) had approved a loan of USD 500 million for Pakistan and that the loan has been set at a rate of 3.8 per cent at the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR). He said that Pakistan has to pay 0.81 per cent over and above the SOFR on a fixed time spread and a changing borrowing cost. The total interest of the loan would stand at 4.9 per cent. This decision comes as Pakistan is trying to mobilise its private sector and international stakeholders to widen the fund and finance pool and expand into the marginalised sections of the country. The loan, under Dar’s announcement to end the Riba by 2027, will help Pakistan tap foreign loans from non-traditional international investors. (Shabaz Rana, “Govt announces end to riba in five years,” The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan to receive USD 500 million from AIIB as co-financing
On 9 November, Federal Minister for Finance Ishaq Dar announced that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) approved USD 500 million in its Board of Directors (BOD) meeting as co-financing of Asian Development Bank -funded Building Resilience with Active Countercyclical Expenditure (BRACE) programme to counter the social fallouts of economic crisis. The funds are to reach Pakistan in the month of November. Previously, the ADB approved and disbursed USD 1.5 billion under the BRACE programme for budgetary support and help flood-related rehabilitation and reconstruction activities. (“Pakistan to get $500m from AIIB for development programme,” Dawn, 10 November 2022)

Pakistani government and army give strict security protection to Chinese projects, says Chinese spokesperson
On 9 November, the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said that the Pakistani government and the army have been providing strict security protection to the Chinese projects. The spokesperson said that China and Pakistan had close communication and coordination over security matters. According to the draft minutes of the 11th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) of the CPEC, both sides have also agreed to strengthen the capabilities of the law-enforcement agencies and investigators. The decisions may help address the concerns of the government of China that was not moving forward on the CPEC front until the security of its nationals was fully guaranteed and Pakistan fulfilled its commitments under the energy deals. Against general expectations, Pakistan and China did not sign the 11th JCC minutes during the two-day visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Beijing earlier this week. (“China, Pakistan maintain close liaison on security,” The Express Tribune, 10 November 2022)

Pakistan on Twitter
"The testimony of the torture on Arshad Sharif Shaheed has proved the position of the government of Pakistan wrong that he was a victim of mistaken identity, a complete investigation of this testimony is very important."
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"Today is a historic day that the federal government has decided to withdraw all appeals from the Shariah court regarding the usurious system of economy."
-Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman 

"Congratulations to the Pakistan Hockey Team for their thrilling 5-3 win over Japan and the bronze medal in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. Nation is proud of you. Congratulations to the entire nation on this good news from the hockey field."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 

Also read...

Miftah Ismail, The ‘One Per Cent Republic’
Dawn, 10 November 2022
Pakistan’s elite compact allows wealth and power to perpetuate over generations and keeps everyone else out. This is what’s keeping Pakistanis poor and why it’s necessary to unravel the elite compact. We need a new social contract to unite and progress as a nation.

Jahanzaib Durrani, The investigative approach
Dawn, 10 November 2022
The grey-listing experience should not be repeated. In collaboration with other stakeholders, the government should work to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of administrative and regulatory frameworks against money laundering/ terrorist financing while ensuring the continuation of economic activity and ease of doing business.

F.S. Aijazuddin, The caged country
Dawn, 10 November 2022
Will we ever achieve the ‘true independence’ that Imran Khan hankers after, or will we remain trapped within the illusory independence of a caged bird? The black poetess Maya Angelou once wrote: “The caged bird sings with a fearful trill/of things unknown/ but longed for still/ and his tune is heard/ on the distant hill/ for the caged bird/ sings of freedom.”

Editorial, Changing winds?
Dawn, 10 November 2022
After so much ink has been spilt over the matter, our leaders ought to have realised that military appointments should remain independent of national politics. For either domain to influence the affairs of the other is a recipe for disaster.

Editorial, Diamer school arson
Dawn, 10 November 2022
The other concerns community engagement, to guarantee that locals continue to educate their children, particularly their girls. The ground reality — that this is a conservative region — must be kept in mind, and community engagement is essential to ensure there are no violent disruptions to educational activities in this remote and underdeveloped area.

Abdul Sattar, A gathering of hypocrites
The News International, 10 November 2022
The leaders of the global community should make a solemn pledge that they will not extract donations or funds from oil and all those companies that are responsible for environmental destruction… If concrete actions are not agreed upon, then this conference will end up being nothing but a gathering of hypocrites.

Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan, Pakistan’s energy transition
The News International, 10 November 2022
Pakistan’s geography makes it extremely vulnerable to climate change. We cannot change our geography. We alone cannot address global carbon emissions and the consequent warming of the globe. As PM Sharif said at COP27 this week, “the international community must come together to create a common charter for the survival of the planet. And we should vow to succeed at all costs.”

Editorial, SBP moves
The News International, 10 November 2022
The task is going to be tough given that cryptocurrencies are by definition resistant to regulation. But large-scale hard currency exfiltration was probably why China recently decided to ban all cryptocurrency transactions, and Pakistan will choose to ignore that possibility at its peril.

Imran Jan, A claustrophobic nation
The Express Tribune, 10 November 2022
On a macro level, Pakistan today feels no different than an open air confined space. There is extreme pressure exerted over whatever even remotely looks like free speech…Whatever limited freedom of speech, including on Twitter, is there has meant nothing to the movers and shakers of this country. Ever since early 2022, democracy has been in place on paper and major decisions taken and executed. The national collective wish is to make it in one piece from one breaking news to the next. In the meantime, we can tweet our hearts out.

Nong Rong, The unique China-Pakistan relationship
The Express Tribune, 10 November 2022
PM Shehbaz, being the first head of government visiting China after the 20th CPC National Congress, successfully concluded his first visit to China after taking office. China received the PM with premium courtesy .Both sides issued joint statement and signed or concluded a number of agreements in areas of e-commerce, digital economy, export of agricultural product, financial cooperation, protection of cultural property, infrastructure and flood relief.
 
Editorial, WB’s energy loan
The Express Tribune, 10 November 2022
The World Bank has signed on to a $3 billion loan to develop energy infrastructure, aside from funding the Dasu Hydropower Project. The bank also wants its funding to support energy efficiency and conservation programmes, while expanding solar power projects across the country. The new deal expands on the bank’s existing $13 billion-plus loan portfolio in Pakistan, which is heavily slanted towards the energy sector and education, especially girls’ education and STEM education.

Editorial, School torching
The Express Tribune, 10 November 2022
 A girls’ school in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district was torched by unidentified miscreants, bringing back horrible memories of 2018, when TTP-linked terrorists set fire to a dozen schools in the district…The protesters demanded the arrest of the ‘terrorist’ attackers and for harsh punishment to be meted out to them. Local authorities, including the Chief Secretary, assured that this would be the case

 


“The climate conference may help carve a common path towards achieving the objectives of the climate change convention and the Paris Agreement. But the exercise will not yield results unless the rich polluters realise the urgent need to save the planet and start playing their part.” 

-An editorial in Dawn on ‘Global responsibility
 

 

 


Imran Khan gives fresh take on the issue of appointing a new chief of army staff


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan gives fresh take on the issue of appointing a new chief of army staff
On 8 November, Imran Khan in an interview with TRT World stated that he does not see any problem if the appointment for the chief of army staff is made by the Shehbaz Sharif government. To the question of whether he had demanded that the appointment of a new chief be made in consultation with him and/or his party he said, “No… they can appoint whoever they want.” Previously, Imran Khan claimed that “the Sharifs and the Zardaris” were unfit to make the appointment to the top military slot alleging that “thieves cannot be allowed to appoint the next army chief.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “Imran ‘abandons’ designs to sway chief’s selection,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

PM Shehbaz Sharif writes to the CJP asking for a JIT on the Wazirabad attack
On 8 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in a letter asked Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial asked to form a judicial commission comprising all available judges to probe into the facts behind the assassination bid on Imran Khan. PM Shehbaz Sharif termed the development as a “serious threat” to the solidarity of the country. He also said that the government would extend complete assistance to the commission to restore public confidence in state institutions and for the sake of finding out the actual factors leading to the gun attack. Additionally, he also asked the commission to ascertain which law enforcement agency was responsible for the security of the PTI chief and whether relevant investigation SOPs were followed after the attack.

Similarly, the Punjab police have recommended the names of three officers to the provincial government to form a joint investigation team (JIT) to launch a formal probe into the case. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM writes to CJP for judicial commission over Wazirabad attack,” Dawn, 9 November 2022; Asif Chaudhry, “Police suggest govt form JIT on Wazirabad attack,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: FIR registered against the PTM leaders for inciting anti-state remarks in a rally
On 8 November, the Bara police registered an FIR against Pakhtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) leaders, including its chief Manzoor Pashteen, for ‘inciting’ people against the state and its institutions. The complaint alleged in the FIR that the speakers incited the participants of the gathering against the state and its agencies, including the armed forces. It also said speeches were mostly malicious in content aimed at inciting people to mutiny. The police said an investigation officer would be deputed to probe the matter and No arrests were made immediately. (“PTM leaders booked for ‘anti-state’ remarks in Bara rally,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)
 
Balochistan: USD 900 million escrow account approved by cabinet for Reko Diq in March, says AAG
On 8 November, the Additional Attorney General(AAG) told the Supreme court that the federal cabinet approved the creation of a USD 900 million escrow account for payments to the Chilean firm Antofagasta on 14 March 2022, whereas negotiations to reach a settlement with Barrick Gold Corporation (BCG) for the Reko Diq mining project were finalized on 17 March.AAG informed the bench that Barrick Gold had said it would return and invest in the project provided they were given certain fiscal incentives like tax holidays for 15 years and concessionary rates. The AAG argued that an overarching steering committee was formed to look into viable legal options as well as negotiate the legal aspect and the settlement of the ICSID award of USD 6.4 billion. (Nasir Iqbal, “Cabinet approved $900m escrow account for Reko Diq in March, SC told,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

Balochistan: Senior Tribal dead among five others in Khuzdar blast
On 8 November, a tribal elder was killed with five other people, including a Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader were injured after their vehicle was attacked with a remote-controlled bomb near Khuzdar. The bomb detonated near Chamrok Chowk, where police officials hurried to the scene after the blast occurred. The injured were shifted to a hospital in Karachi. Other injured people including passers-by were identified by the police as well. The police have registered a case against the unknown assailants and have started an investigation into the incident. (Abdul Wahid Shahwani, “Tribal elder killed in Khuzdar blast,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

Sindh: Karachi’s NICH protests see patients injured as well as 3 kids die, as standoff continues
On 8 November, three patients died at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) as healthcare providers sustained their boycott of health services across Sindh. The police held over a dozen paramedics who were trying to march on the Chief Minister’s house, and the impasse between the police and protestors continued to increase the chaos. Medical workers under the Grand Health Alliance (GHA) convened outside the Karachi Press Club and raised slogans for their demands. As the protestors moved towards the CM’s house, the police intervened and held 15 protestors, with five female nurses. Those held were released later, but the medical workers under the GHA said that discussions with the government officials have not “yielded” any positive outcomes as of yet. (Imtiaz Ali, “3 children die at Karachi’s NICH as strike by healthcare providers continues,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
US reemphasises its criticism of the attack on Imran Khan, says ‘violence has no place in politics’
On 9 November, the US called for all the parties in Pakistan to “refrain” from violence and adhere to the rule of law. The US State Department spokesperson Ned Price reiterated that the US sternly condemned the shooting, and expressed hope for Imran Khan’s quick recovery including the people who are injured. Further, he added that the US is “concerned” about these incidents of violence and called on all parties in the country to resist “violence, harassment and intimidation”. In his address, he also mentioned that political parties and their heads need to express their disagreements in a peaceful manner and employ “universal rights”,  but never resort to violence. (“Imran Khan's long march 2.0,” Dawn, 9 November 2022)

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says Pakistan requires additional funds and not debts
On 8 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his national statement at the COP27 summit in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh, asked the international community to help flood-hit Pakistan and said that Pakistan needed extra funds and not debts. He said that Pakistan wants to “rebuild a resilient and adaptive” infrastructure with the widening financial wedge in the country. He mentioned the devastations of the flood-hit areas of Pakistan, with estimates rolling up to USD 30 billion in loss and damage. He said that the “manmade disaster” has cost Pakistan heavy import procurements and that the country has “redirected its resources” to meet the urgent needs of the people. He asked the international group to help Pakistan “carry out this gigantic task”. (“We need funds, not debts: Shehbaz,” The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Ishaq Dar asked to bring the PKR down to its ‘real value’
On 8 November, the depository financial institution of Pakistan asked the finance minister Ishaq Dar to “fulfil his commitment” to bring the Pakistan Rupee (PKR) to its original value, reduce the policy rate and to stop inflation. Muhammad Khattak with the Pakistan Businesses Forum (PBF) said that the uncommon rise in inflation has “drastically” reduced the personal sector borrowing in the last year. Other traders and businessmen have called on the finance minister to bring the value of the PKR to not more than PKR 200 because it would help the regulating agencies to encourage people to buy dollars. The PBF urged the finance minister to give discounts to the export and import sector by taking “friendly financial measures” and maintaining a lower markup rate. They also said that the current account deficits and increasing policy rates could be the “death of Pakistan’s economy”. (Usman Hanif, “Dar urged to stop rupee depreciation,” The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022)

Pakistan on Twitter
"There is a tail in the chest, but no heart. Tara Dum is not a summer party. Go beyond the intellect that this light. It is a lamp, not a destination-(Iqbal #9thNov)"
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf Imran Khan has directed the lawyers to approach the court for registration of FIR of the Wazirabad attack, the way IG Punjab and DPO Gujarat lost evidence due to unknown pressure is a cognizable offense which every separate legal Action is being initiated."
-Ch Fawad Hussain


"I have written 2 letters to Chief Justice of ðŸ‡µðŸ‡° with a request to form judicial commission to investigate Arshad Sharif’s killing & attack on Imran. These unfortunate incidents are being used to make false allegations, spread chaos & undermine institutions. Let truth b determined."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 

Also read...

Zahid Hussain, A state of anarchy
Dawn, 9 November 2022
The ongoing political confrontation and polarisation threaten to derail the democratic process. Imran Khan’s confrontation with the establishment cannot be taken as a battle for civilian supremacy. It’s a ruthless struggle for power. The country is hurtling towards a state of anarchy with no resolution of the crisis in sight.

Editorial, Unintelligent move
Dawn, 9 November 2022
Now that he is out of power, Mr Khan has been arguing, rightly, that the job of the intelligence is to secure the country rather than do political engineering. He was also not off the mark in criticising the ISI chief for holding a press conference. However, a country’s former chief executive should know that not everything can be placed in the court of public opinion to serve one’s political agenda.

Editorial, Parameters of protest
The News International, 9 November 2022
In all this, ‘peacefully’ must be the operative word. Protests in themselves are not an issue – nor should they be – but protests that are looking to create trouble by blocking thoroughfares or burning tyres or stopping people from getting home are not in the aid of any cause but that of chaos.

Editorial, Census delay
The News International, 9 November 2022
The population breakdowns in the census are used as a baseline for sampling in every other government survey. Funds for everything, from welfare payments to health and education, will be apportioned and allocated on the basis of the census. The effectiveness of such programmes are dependent on knowing exactly where money needs to be spent.

Editorial, Security for investors
Dawn, 9 November 2022
here is no shortage of land and manpower in Pakistan, and if the right security environment is provided, and economic benefits trickle down to local communities, such ventures can play a major role in stabilising Pakistan’s teetering economy. This is something the government, the opposition and the establishment need to have a consensus on.

Sharmila Faruqi, Change for the better
The News International, 9 November 2022
Pakistan being ranked so low on the gender inequality index is not a coincidence. Violence against women is ingrained in our society and protected by the weak laws that govern it. The horrifyingly high number of cases of violence demands a change. All of our government institutes and social agencies must be involved to bring about this change in our society once and for all.

Talat Masood, Need to take a harder look at our problems
The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022
US President Joe Biden’s recent remarks about Pakistan being “one of the most dangerous nations in the world” and a “nuclear nation without any cohesion”, doubting the safety protocols of the country’s nuclear weapons had justifiably outraged the nation.
 
 Annalena Baerbock , Fighting climate crisis — now more urgent than ever
The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022
This summer, floods swept a third of Pakistan, killing thousands. In Ethiopia, the worst droughts in decades pushed millions into hunger and starvation. In the Sahel, water scarcity is exacerbating conflicts over resources and land, forcing people to migrate. All of this shows: the climate crisis is the biggest security challenge humanity faces in the 21st century, and taking action against it is more urgent than ever.

Zile Huma, Climate diplomacy
The News International, 9 November 2022
There should be internal checks and audits of all projects initiated under the funds received as repatriation. Also, the mission to highlight the negative impacts of climate change should not be limited to COP27. Continuous climate diplomacy is required in the form of follow-ups and advocating on other international forums as well.

Editorial, UN climate conference
The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022
The much-awaited UN Climate Conference COP27 is finally underway in Egypt as nearly 200 world leaders have come together to work on curtailing the threat of climate change. The event is vital for the world as this may be the last opportunity that humanity has to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C. Further increase will cause insurmountable destruction across the globe and perhaps even the extinction of the human race. For Pakistan, this might prove to be a defining moment.

Editorial, Marshalling values
The Express Tribune, 9 November 2022
Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar is apparently the first initiative to draw lines on stated values of public representation. The PPP leader decided to step down from the upper house reportedly after crossing swords with his political hierarchy over an issue that had stirred a debate on human rights and the alleged role of invisible quarters…The conviction and courage that Khokhar exhibited did not go well with the defined narrative of the PPP, which is at the helm of affairs these days.

 

“Educational institutes must overcome their fear of allowing students to establish forums, clubs and other entities, either co- or extracurricular, to taste aspects of real life as part of their learning experiences and practise the same in society as responsible citizens and future leaders. Otherwise, we will continue to witness a widening gap between knowledge and practice and will be forced to deal with social misbehaviour.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Education & behaviour

 


Punjab police finally registering an FIR in the assassination attempt on Imran Khan


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
Punjab police finally register an FIR in the assassination attempt on Imran Khan
On 7 November, the Punjab police finally registered an FIR regarding the assassination attempt of Imran Khan after the Supreme Court warned that it would initiate suo motu proceedings if the provincial police failed to register an FIR. The case has been registered under terrorism charges, with the detained suspect being nominated as the prime accused. However, the FIR did not mention any of the names that Imran Khan accused including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah, and a senior intelligence officer Major General Faisal Naseer.

In response, Rana Sanaullah challenged Imran Khan to first prove he received four bullets. He stated that he would quit politics if an independent medical board confirmed Imran Khan’s claims, stating, “otherwise, Imran Khan should quit politics forever.”

Meanwhile, Imran Khan in an interview with CNN’s Becky Anderson stated that there were two shooters and “maybe another one.” He said, “There was this guy who fired the first volley ... then there was another volley [that] came in over our heads because we were falling,” terming the attack a “planned assassination attempt.” Further, he stated that his advanced knowledge of the attempt on his life came from “connections with intelligence agencies that operate.” Additionally, he said, “If my allegations are wrong then an inquiry would prove them wrong,” adding, “can’t name the people I’m suspicious of who planned this attempt on me.” (Syed Talal Ahsan, “Police finally register FIR over attack on PTI chief following SC intervention,” Dawn, 8 November 2022; “Imran claims ‘malcontent’ agency insiders feeding him information,” Dawn, 8 November 2022; Iftikhar A. Khan, “Prove that you received four bullets, Sana asks Imran,” Dawn, 8 November 2022)

Scrutiny committee tells the Election Commission of Pakistan they are ‘having difficulties’ finding PML-N records
On 7 November, the head of the scrutiny committee briefed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that the panel faced challenges in looking for records of the PML-N and the PPP in the funding case and “did not present” a report on the same. The head said that the PML-N and the PPP had “received” funds and membership fees in various accounts and that further verification and clarification of the PML-N accounts were necessary. The ECP wanted to clear the case and asked the head to submit an interim report and ordered that it needed to be done within a specific time period. (Saqib Virk, “‘Unable to find PML-N, PPP funding records’,” The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022)

Imran Khan writes to President Alvi on defining the parameters of the ISPR
On 8 November, The News International reported that Imran Khan wrote to President Dr Arif Alvi asking him to clearly define the parameters of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). He said, “The parameters of a military information organisation, such as the ISPR [Inter-Services Public Relations], need to be clearly defined and limited to information relating to defence and military issues,” adding, “As supreme commander of the armed forces, I call on you to initiate drawing up of clear operational lines for the ISPR.” Further, he asked President Alvi to initiate an inquiry into the alleged leak of confidential conversation between the then prime minister Imran Khan, the army chief and the director general (DG) of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the cipher issue. (“Imran asks president to define ISPR’s parameters,” The News International, 8 November 2022)

The seventh census is to be delayed for three months
On 7 November, an official announcement made by the Ministry of Planning stated that Federal Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal directed the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) to send a fresh summary to the Council of Common Interests and the Prime Minister’s Office with a fresh timeline over the 7th Digital Census 2022. Keeping in view the sensitivity of the matter, the PBS adjusted the training of master trainers and training of other staffers at the divisional level in November and December 2022. However, training at the Tehsil level for 120,000 field staff cannot be initiated before the complete handover of tablets. Therefore, after all, considerations and running activities in parallel, the timelines have been revised and now the fieldwork will be conducted with effect from 1 February 2023 to 4 March 2023 and results after the conduct of the post-enumeration survey will be handed over to the ECP by 30 April 2023 for delimitation purposes. (“7th census delayed for three months,” The News International, 8 November 2022)

EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz Sharif meets Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince along the sidelines of the COP27 climate conference
On 8 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman along the sidelines of the COP27 climate conference held in Egypt. A statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) following the meeting said, “Looking forward to the upcoming visit of the Crown Prince to Pakistan, the prime minister said that he was confident that this visit would promote bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.” Additionally, the two leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. (“PM confident Saudi crown prince’s upcoming visit to Pakistan will promote bilateral ties,” Dawn, 8 November 2022)

UN suggests assistance in credit to Pakistan amid flood devastation
On 7 November, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a joint press conference at the outset of the COP-27 said that international financial institutions and the G-20 countries need to “create a mechanism for debt relief” for middle-income countries and Pakistan. He emphasised the requirement of such a mechanism and said that an international donor conference would be held for the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the formation of an inter-agency team led by the UN and the deputy secretary general to help Pakistan formulate a comprehensive rehabilitation and revitalisation plan to be showcased at the conference. He said that Pakistan has “mobilised” every bit of the funds allocated for flood relief. Further, he added that international assistance will be imperative in building a “greener” Pakistan based on the model of sustainable development. (“UN proposes debt relief to Pakistan amid flood recovery,” The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022)

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urges the international community to create a common charter for surviving the planet
On 7 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the international community to come together to create a common charter for the survival of the planet, as he welcomed the commitment of the international community, especially the Islamic world, to the goals and objectives of the Egypt climate talks. According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s office, on the sidelines of the mega climate change summit, the heads of state and government in their interaction with Shehbaz termed his passion as “extraordinary”, featuring efforts for urgent steps to save the country from the natural disaster. The European leaders extended their condolences for the loss of life in devastating floods in Pakistan. Shehbaz apprised them of the devastating effects of the climate-induced calamity and stressed that climate change warranted the unity of all countries across the world. (“PM urges world to create ‘charter for Earth survival’,” The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Militant commander killed during an IBO in Jamrud tehsil of Khyber district, says CTD
On 7 November, the counter-terrorism department (CTD) stated that a militant commander was killed during an intelligence-based operation in Jamrud tehsil of Khyber district. According to the CTD, the militant was residing in a house in Gharreeza locality. Further, three armed men were arrested while trying to flee in injured condition. (“Militant commander killed in Khyber raid,” Dawn, 8 November 2022)

Balochistan: Supreme Court informed that Barrick Gold deal better for Pakistan
On 7 November, the Supreme Court was told by foreign experts that the government’s agreement with Barrick Gold was a preferable deal for the country. This comes as the Supreme Court took up the Reko Diq agreement. The information was passed on by the managing director of a private company who said that USD eight billion was necessary for Pakistan and Balochistan to benefit from the deal. Further, the foreign expert said that the deal would see profits from the second phase of the agreement. The bench, however, asked the expert whether the government negotiated a better deal with another company and if the country could handle another contract while the debts are piling up. The foreign expert supported the Barrick deal and said that it comes with “expertise”. (“Reko Diq deal is better, SC told,” The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022)

ECONOMY
Roshan Digital Accounts dip into a 23-month low, hits USD 146 million in October
On 7 November, foreign currency inflows sent to overseas Pakistanis through Roshan Digital Accounts (RDAs) have consistently seen a dip for the fourth consecutive month, hitting a 23-month low at USD 146 million in October 2022. The receipts included USD 5.3 billion and USD 3.4 billion for non-resident Pakistanis with added incentives of lucrative returns. According to experts, the slowdown is showing an “unattractive rate of return” and said that the “sluggishness” was agitated by increasing profit returns on their global bonds and fixed investment products. The head of research at Ismail Iqbal Securities (IIS) said that the State Bank of Pakistan needs to increase the returns on foreign currencies which are dominated by Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs) if it sees exploitation. (Salman Siddiqui, “RDA inflows dive to $146m, hit 23-month low,” The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022)

No firm schedule for finishing the ninth review, says IMF
On 7 November, without committing any firm schedule for the completion of the pending 9th review, the IMF stated that the fund would continue engagement with Pakistani authorities for providing relief to flood-affected people while ensuring sustainable policies. However, a Pakistani official said that for the time being, the online exchanges between the two sides continued. It clearly indicates that the IMF so far seems reluctant to finalize any firm schedule for holding parleys for the completion of the 9th review and release the next tranche of around USD 1 billion. The IMF has so far expressed its concerns over the fiscal framework and raised questions about missing tax and non-tax collection targets as well as exceeding expenditure heads so the budget deficit and primary deficit are projected to be beached with margins. (Mehtab Haider, “No firm schedule by IMF for finishing 9th review,” The News International, 8 November 2022)

Measures to improve revenues taken by government ahead of IMF meeting
On 7 November, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had separate meetings with State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad to discuss matters relating to the exchange rate and higher-than-targeted profit from the central bank and provincial governments to remove irritants to the harmonization of general sales tax on a national level. The meeting between the finance minister and SBP governor is also believed to have discussed matters relating to the manipulation of exchange rates by banks in recent months and the way forward on punitive actions and course corrections. During Mr Dar’s meeting, the provincial chief secretaries agreed with consensus over the harmonization of GST throughout the country that would clear hurdles towards USD 1.4 billion in foreign inflows including about USD 500 million to Sindh and the remaining USD 900 million to the federal government. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt mulls measures to improve revenues, end rupee volatility ahead of IMF meet,” Dawn, 8 November 2022)

JUDICIARY
Justice Minallah laments the ‘elites’ of Pakistan, asks politicians to resolve difficulties in parliament
On 7 November, Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Athar Minallah said that the dispensation of the justice system of the country sees an absence of rule of law and is run by the “rule of the elite”. Justice Minallah remarked on the “life of dictatorships” that Pakistan has led and reiterated the “supremacy” of law. He advised the politicians of the country to figure out their conflicts in the parliament and not in the courts. He said that the authority of the constitution is “in the negative” and that the absence of a rule of law determines the country’s condition. Further, he added that the judiciary’s performance could be “gauged” by the amount of trust the public had in the legal system, and said that the political leadership could be strengthened. (Saqib Bashir, “Justice Minallah bemoans 'rule of elite' in country,” The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022)

 
 
Pakistan on Twitter
"Tehreek-e-Insaf has given its position if the names of Shehbaz Sharif, Rana Sanaullah and Faisal Naseer are included in the FIR, then this FIR is legal."
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"In my interaction with world leaders on the sidelines of #COP27, I explained the challenges of the post-flood reconstruction in Pakistan. I threw light on govt's efforts & highlighted the urgent need for continued international support for rehabilitation of flood victims."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

"The PTI protests should have ended after the FIR was registered. There are ulterior motives behind the resumption of violent protests and shortcut marches. This is not a campaign of public and democratic supremacy but of civil supremacy. Save Imran Movement has now become the movement to put Imran in power."
-Sherry Rehman, Federal Minister for Climate Change
Also read...
 
Arifa Noor, Brutalised society
Dawn, 8 November 2022
Ours is a weak society, weak where violence of all kind is accepted and to be borne with stoicism. For after all, we are also a patriarchal society where men don’t cry if bad things happen and they should not complain either. And those who did, were not Pakistani enough.

Editorial, Delayed FIR
Dawn, 8 November 2022
The incident has already shaken the relationship between the citizens and the state: its investigation should not be treated as a personal prerogative by the PTI chief. There should be no further delay in launching an investigation, conducting it thoroughly and delivering its results transparently to the people of Pakistan.

Editorial, Rule of myopia
The News International, 8 November 2022
At the rate Imran Khan and his party are going, it seems unlikely the PTI will be taking any step towards conciliatory politics. But they need to remember that acting within democratic chalk lines is essential, via political dialogue and a new set of rules of engagement. No one – be it a political party or an individual with a messianic complex – can consider themselves above constitutional norms. In the end, myopia only serves the interests of the powerful who can look well beyond the immediate.

Editorial, Battling bandits
Dawn, 8 November 2022
There is also the question of collusion, as observers have noted that black sheep within the Sindh police are in cahoots with the dacoits, allowing them to escape justice. The Ghotki raid should be a wake-up call, and citizens of the riverine areas need to be protected from these violent elements.

Editorial, Ghotki attack
The News International, 8 November 2022
In a day and age where the most sophisticated means of criminal activity are readily available to be learnt on a mere click, why are our police still living at least 50 years behind the times? How is this of any service to those they are meant to protect and serve? Perhaps even more importantly, how is this helping us keep our police personnel safe? Or do their lives just not matter?

Mosharraf Zaidi, November 29 and Pakistan’s polycrisis
The News International, 8 November 2022
This ‘problem’ cannot be solved by those that created it in the first place. Pakistan needs fresh faces and fresh approaches. The place to start is where it all began. It is time for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to announce the next army chief and start the healing.

Ishtiaq Ali Mekhri, Khan should campaign for transformation, not just reforms
The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022
Imran Khan is neither infallible nor is he an angel. He is another human being. He has erred in many decisions and his stint in power was not perfect by any means. But he is a brave man, a sportsman par excellence, and a celebrity of grandeur order. At the same time, he has a vision and the commitment to lead from the front, and that is what exhibits his leadership.
 
Dr Muhammad Babar Chohan, The dilemma of Pakistan’s geostrategic location
The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022
Floods, disease burden and agricultural productivity are directly associated with geography of a country. Recent floods and Pakistan’s subsequent appeal for international aid has indeed magnified geographical woes and economic vulnerabilities of the country. Seeking international aid could be an easier path but it is not sustainable.

Editorial, The generous bailouts
The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022
There is some great news for Pakistan as some $13 billion will hit its coffers. It is an outcome of the generosity exhibited by Saudi Arabia and China. This additional financial support from the two traditional friends is an indicator that Pakistan’s potential cannot be underestimated, irrespective of its fallacious economic approach in the current milieu, and at the same time illustrates the indispensability of its geopolitics.

Editorial, Rising inflation
The Express Tribune, 8 November 2022
Skyrocketing inflation continues to hit citizens across the country, with the latest year-on-year inflation figures again exceeding 25%. The little hope of a decrease in the inflation rate seen after September’s figures were released disappeared in just a month. Indeed, attempts to find any silver lining grow even more desperate — the latest being at least it’s better than the all-time record numbers we saw in August.
 



“Media ecosystems everywhere need independent outlets that can hold the powerful to account, especially when mainstream media is increasingly failing in its job of doing so.” 

-An opinion in Dawn on ‘Media on a wire

 
 

 


PTI to resume long march from Wazirabad


Photo: Dawn



In Brief
INTERNAL
PTI to resume long march from Wazirabad
On 6 November, Imran Khan announced that the ‘Azadi March’ towards Islamabad would resume on 8 November from the same point in Wazirabad where he was injured in a gun attack. Further, he stated that Shah Mahmood Qureshi would lead the long march in his place until he recovers and join the march in Rawalpindi in 10-14 days. Meanwhile, Imran Khan supported Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for the Supreme Court’s full court probe commission, however, he expressed reservations, claiming how the commission would perform its duties independently if its members’ bosses who needed to be probed remained in the office.
 
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court directed the Punjab police chief to register a first information report (FIR) of the gun attack on Imran Khan within 24 hours as Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial warned of taking suo motu notice if the FIR of the attack was not registered. (Mansoor Malik, “Imran endorses PM-suggested SC probe panel,” Dawn, 7 November 2022; Haseeb Bhatti, “SC warns of suo motu notice if FIR of attack on Imran not registered in 24 hours,” Dawn, 7 November 2022)

Attack on Imran Khan is a drama, says Maulana Fazl Rehman
On 6 November, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said he had doubts over the attack on Imran Khan terming the incident a drama. At a press conference, he called the incident “an act”, saying, “Initially I had sympathized with Imran Khan upon hearing about the Wazirabad episode, but now it seems that it was a drama.” He called for a “thorough investigation” into the shooting. He said it was not clear whether “a single shot was fired at Imran or more” and whether the injury was “on one leg or on both”. Furthermore, Maulana Fazl said, it was intriguing that Imran Khan “was taken to Lahore instead of being admitted to a nearby hospital in Wazirabad.”(Syed Irfan Raza, “Fazl expresses ‘doubts’ about attack on Imran,” Dawn, 7 November 2022)

Journalist murder case will “not proceed,” says Head of Inquiry Commission
On 6 November, the head of the inquiry commission made to determine the facts behind journalist Arshad Sharif’s death in Kenya said that the panel would be unable to move ahead with the investigation. The death of Sharif by the local police was deemed to be an attack of “mistaken identity” by the Kenyan authorities. The Pakistan government formed a three-member commission to probe into the case. The commission said that Sharif’s mother “rejected” the commission and sent her request to the chief justice of the country. The members of the commission, however, said that the involvement of higher officials would not be “legally sustainable.” (“Journalist murder probe panel ‘won’t be able to proceed’ ahead,” The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022)

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledges new ambassadors and consults generals
On 5 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif gave the nod to the appointment of new Pakistani ambassadors and consults generals to various countries. The appointment comes as Pakistan wants to maintain its diplomatic relations with the receiving states and “promote” foreign policy strategies. The responsibilities of these officials will also embody protection against persecution from the receiving state. The new ambassadors to Norway, Senegal, Barcelona, Canada and the US are decided along the lines of the Pakistani government’s bid to improve relations with these countries through international organisations. (“PM gives nod to new ambassadors, CGs,” The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022)

The furtherance of bureaucrats delayed amid questions over the inspection mechanism
On 7 November, Dawn reported that the Central Selection Board (CSB) is facing “inordinate delays” in the middle of questions over the scrutiny mechanism of the board. The promotion of basic pay scales (BPS) from 20 to 21 of around 350 bureaucrats is held back because of delay in the approval by the prime minister so far. Dawn said that the cases are “under scrutiny” at the Prime Minister’s Office because the process did not adhere to rules and laws governing civil service promotions.” The report said informal sources mentioned a cut in the concept of merit for promotion of these officers, and that the discretion lays in its “king-making” and said that rules which bring out transparency and merit are becoming subjects of controversy in the country. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Top promotions on hold as ‘kingmaking’ Central Selection Board in spotlight,” Dawn, 7 November 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaches Egypt for the climate change summit
On 6 November, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Egypt to take part in the Sharm El Sheikh Climate Implementation Summit (SCIS). The Prime Minister was accompanied by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and other officials. In his addresses prior to the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asked for “climate justice” from the international community, asking the world to financially help the “developing countries” to lessen the threats of climate change. Further, he added that Pakistan’s rehabilitation was delayed due to rising public debt, increasing energy and food prices and “lack of access to adaptation funds”. The summit is a two-day programme, as a part of the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference. The prime minister will co-chair a roundtable discussion with Norway, and participate in other events as a speaker. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also going to hold bilateral meetings with other world leaders at the outset of the summit. (“PM Shehbaz arrives in Egypt to attend climate change summit,” Dawn, 6 November 2022)
 
ECONOMY
Additional financial support reported a raise in the stock market with 318 points
On 7 November, Dawn reported that the stock market opened the week in green owing to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar’s statement that Pakistan had secured about USD 13 billion in additional financial support from China and Saudi Arabia. Head of Equities at Intermarket Securities, Raza Jafri, said while the stock market rose in reaction to expected support from China and Saudi Arabia which would help the country’s balance of payments position, the gains were in check since political developments loomed large in the background. He said, “This is good news and Ishaq Dar says the dollar will come below PKR 200 soon. The last two days have gone by without problems so the tension on the political front has been reduced. This is the reason the market is performing well.” (Talqeen Zubairi, “Stocks jump 318 points on expected $13bn from Saudi, China,” Dawn, 7 November 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Attack on police camp by robbers kills five policemen in Ghotki
On 6 November, the deputy superintendent of police, two SHOs, and two constables were killed while three others received injuries as a result of an attack by at least 150 dacoits on a police camp in the riverine area of Ghotki district. The police had set up a camp after entering the area to recover three hostages who were kidnapped on 30 October. After midnight, at least 150 dacoits attacked the camp with modern weapons and fired at least 25 rockets at the policemen. According to Dawn, dacoits celebrated the killings inside the riverine area after taking away the bodies of the policemen. The bodies were returned to the police after a few hours as a result of mediation by some influential persons. The bodies were sent to their native towns after autopsy and the injured were shifted to a hospital. (Waseem Shamsi, “DSP, two SHOs among five cops dead in robbers’ attack in Ghotki,” Dawn, 7 November 2022)

 

Pakistan on Twitter
"Shah Mehmood Qureshi only reminded the IG of his responsibility, the IGP has performed extremely poorly in Punjab, his tenure cannot be called an honorable tenure for the Punjab Police."
-Ch Fawad Hussain

"The deliberations by the world leaders will shape the future of our struggle against climate change. What we face today is the challenge of the century. We have a duty to leave a clean & green environment to our coming generations. At #COP27, we should vow to succeed at all costs."
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

"The person who reached Wazirabad from Lahore in seven days, as soon as he got injured, ran back to Lahore to get treatment for his bone in a cancer hospital of his choice. Yes, but the blame goes to PM, Rana Sana and DGC."
-Maulana Fazl Rehman 
Also read...
Maleeha Lodhi, A crisis like no other
Dawn, 7 November 2022
If current political troubles continue with no end in sight, it will exact an even heavier toll on a struggling economy, increase people’s economic hardship and leave the country in a more ungovernable state — regardless of cash help from friendly nations. Living on loans from outside will not fix Pakistan’s internal problems.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Voter turnout fault lines
Dawn, 7 November 2022
Political parties, especially the larger ones, do not seem to be focusing much on the youth and their huge electoral potential. One manifestation of that is the low percentage of young candidates in the National and provincial assembly elections…With the next election not more than 11 months away, it is about time that political parties, parliament, the ECP and civil society seriously worked on these fault lines.

Editorial, Democrats, dictators & demagogues
Dawn, 7 November 2022
‘People power’ — the very essence of democracy — is being cynically used to pressurise the powers that be to abjure their recent claim to ‘neutrality’ and again intervene in politics. Pakistan stands on the edge of a precipice. All parties to this conflagration must rein in their worst impulses, pledge to not malign each other and look to the Constitution for a path to coexistence.

Editorial, Revenue gaps
Dawn, 7 November 2022
The government’s budget is likely to come under more pressure and the pace of expenditure growth likely to surge drastically as the administration moves to undertake the rehabilitation of the flood-affected people and reconstruct damaged infrastructure. In the absence of any meaningful foreign assistance, we will have to rely on our own resources.

Editorial, Dispossessed in Karachi
Dawn, 7 November 2022
It is mind-boggling how those entitled to well-appointed government residences cannot spare a thought for those dispossessed of their homes, despite having documentation for their property in many instances. Pakistan has long been an inequitable society.

Editorial, COP27: distress signal
The News International, 7 November 2022
“It is of paramount importance that the world now bands together in this fight”. This is not a fight between the Global North and the Global South because the developed world can only delay the havoc and chaos countries in the South are facing at the moment, for no fault of theirs.

Shahid Javed Burki, Brazil’s political developments and their relevance for Pakistan
The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022
Pakistan, its policymakers and its citizens should look closely at what has happened in Brazil, a distant land with a population of 217 million only five million less than Pakistan’s 222 million. Brazil in other words is the world’s sixth largest country after Pakistan… Pakistan is one of the three countries in the Muslim world in which democracy as the way of governance is being tried. For the process to be fully complete, all major parties must find ways to work with one another.

Raza Muhamad, US national security strategies and Pakistan
The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022
The United States is a pre-eminent power. Its National Security Strategies (NSS) are formulated, modified and revealed from time to time, keeping in line with varying interests and evolving threat perceptions. Whether Pakistan finds some space in these or not, it is definitely affected by these. The strategies issued in the post-9/11 era are more important for this discussion.

Kamran Yousaf, China and KSA come to our rescue
The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last week undertook a maiden visit to China. It took him over six months to obtain an invitation from the Chinese leadership after he replaced Imran Khan as Prime Minister in April. It was unusual that a newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan had to wait too long for a bilateral trip to China. There were rumors that China was not happy with the change of government in Pakistan and hence was not ready to receive the new Prime Minister.

Editorial, Need for a judicious probe
The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022
The federal government’s decision to form a full court commission to probe into assassination attempt on PTI chief Imran Khan, and likewise into the plot behind journalist Arshad Sharif’s killing in Kenya is a welcome development. This will be a promising step if it sees the light of the day. The Prime Minister did some plain-talking as he dispelled the impression that he is behind the volatile upheavals, and this incidentally led to the thickening of the plot.

Editorial, Flood stricken children
The Express Tribune, 7 November 2022
More bad news in the aftermath of the recent floods has been revealed by Unicef. The organisation claims that schools for more than two million children in Pakistan remained inaccessible as severe flooding has destroyed 27,000 schools in the country. This has significantly increased the risk of child labour, exploitation, child marriage and school drop-outs. While efforts are being made to provide relief to affected communities, a lack of concerted and coordinated response has been witnessed.
 


“A long term economic planning is immediately needed to ensure that the country is on the path to economic progress and development. A charter of economy is urgently needed to get rid of loans and liabilities and to escape sovereign default. An inclusive democratic political system is the solution to all problems in society and to stabilize Pakistan.” 

-An opinion in The News International on ‘Pakistan’s perpetual search for stability

 

 


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