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Daily Briefs

Ready to resolve issues with India through dialogue, says Imran


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 27 February 2021
Getting greyed: Pakistan’s FATF conundrum
Pakistan was expecting that the Financial Action Task Force, in its latest three-days meeting (22-25 February) would remove the country from the Grey list. Instead, the FATF meeting that witnessed delegates from 205 members belonging to a global network of countries and organizations, decided to maintain the status quo – retain Pakistan in the grey list, thereby neither moving it into the black list, nor removing where it is now.
 
The FATF was not completely negative; it had a few positive observations about Pakistan’s commitment since June 2018. It says, “Pakistan’s continued political commitment has led to significant progress across a comprehensive CFT action plan, including by: demonstrating that law enforcement agencies are identifying and investigating the widest range of TF activity, demonstrating enforcement against TFS violations, and working to prevent the raising and moving of funds including by controlling facilities and services owned or controlled by designated persons and entities.”
 
However, FATF is not completely satisfied with the above achievements by Pakistan. It wants Pakistan to more, “to work on implementing the three remaining items in its action plan to address its strategically important deficiencies, namely by: (1) demonstrating that TF investigations and prosecutions target persons and entities acting on behalf or at the direction of the designated persons or entities; (2) demonstrating that TF prosecutions result in effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions; and (3) demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1267 and 1373 designated terrorists, specifically those acting for or on their behalf.”
 
Urging Pakistan to “swiftly complete its full action plan before June 2021,” it has decided to retain the country in the grey list until then. While the PTI was expecting a complete clean chit, what it got was a calibrated applause/warning.
 
So what does this mean? Pakistan is out of getting blacklisted. But it needs to do more, to get out the grey list.

 

In Focus
Ready to resolve issues with India through dialogue, says Imran
DGMOs' talks limited to LoC, clarifies FO

On 27 February (today), Prime Minister Imran Khan said Pakistan is "ready to move forward to resolve all outstanding issues through dialogue.” However, he has placed the onus of initiating an “enabling environment for further progress” on India. (“Pakistan ready to resolve all outstanding issues through dialogue: PM Imran,” The Express Tribune, 27 February 2021)

FO says no change in Kashmir policy
On 26 February, the Foreign Office spokesperson said “Pakistan’s principled and long-held position on the Jammu & Kashmir dispute” has not changed. He clarified that the communication between the DGMOs of India and Pakistan was confined to de-escalation of tensions at the LoC. He said “We have been repeatedly saying that gross human rights violations in India and IIOJK are a matter of deep concern.” Further, the FO spokesperson claimed that Pakistan had always “underscored the need for observing the 2003 ceasefire understanding in letter and in spirit for maintaining peace along the Line of Control.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “No change in govt’s Kashmir policy: FO,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

Previously…
On 25 February, the UN and the US welcomed the recommitment to the 2003 ceasefire. The spokesman for the UN Secretary-General said, Antonio Guterres had appreciated the development and was hopeful that “this positive step will provide an opportunity for further dialogue.” 

Similarly, the US State Department spokesman also welcomed the developments and said, “We encourage continued efforts to improve communication between the two sides and to reduce tensions and violence along the LoC.” (Anwar Iqbal, “UN, US ask India and Pakistan to stay engaged,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

Editorial appreciates ceasefire, calls on India for dialogue
An editorial in Dawn terms the recommitment to the 2003 ceasefire “a pleasant surprise” amid the heightened tensions in the recent past. The editorial says it is difficult to assess the development - whether it is a result of bilateral backchannel communication between the two or  whether the new US administration has pushed for dialogue and resolution of differences. It highlights that either way, one should not expect the tensions between the two to disappear and urges India to initiate the dialogue process and review “its disastrous policy in held Kashmir.” (“LoC ceasefire,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

 

Opposition warns of militants regrouping in Balochistan, KP tribal areas
Urges timely action to avoid resurgence of terror incidents

Image Source: Dawn

On 26 February, the opposition parties in the National Assembly asked the government to take immediate notice of the regrouping of militants in the tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan. Further, they warned the government that if timely action was not taken, the operations conducted by the armed forces might go in vain. The opposition members also asked PM Imran Khan to ensure the officials concerned look into this renewed wave of terrorism incidents. Further, the NA also discussed the issue of forced disappearances in Balochistan and across other regions.

NA condemns women’s killing in North Waziristan
As the NA condemned the killing of four women vocational trainers in North Waziristan on 22 February. JUI-F MNA from Bannu, Zahid Durrani stated, “The people of my constituency are asking: are we not Pakistanis? Had such an incident taken place in Punjab or Sindh or any other district, media would have given it coverage and the National Assembly would have held a debate on it,” adding, “For how long, will we continue picking up bodies?” Similarly, Shahnaz Baloch of the BNP-M critical of the plight of women in Pakistan said, “What was the fault of these women? Kill all the women in the country to settle the matter once and for all. Is this Pakistan? Is this Sharia? Is this the state of Madina about which the prime minister used to talk.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Militants regrouping in Balochistan, KP tribal areas, NA told,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

 

Pakistan responds to ECP's NA 75 Order
Media hails ECP Chief, pushes for reforms

Image Source: Dawn

On 26 February, Maryam Nawaz alleged that by challenging the ECP order to hold re-polls, the federal government has proven that it had stolen the public mandate in NA-75 Daska. She tweeted, “Challenging the decision of ECP proves that you (the government) have committed the theft [of people's vote], and saving the officers involved in vote theft confirms that it was committed at your behest.” 

Similarly, Nawaz Sharif said, “The Daska by-election unveils many secrets.” He maintained that the way the public mandate was “stolen” in Daska “is a clear proof of the rigging in the 2018 elections.” He vowed, “We will not rest before taking all such Constitution breakers who commit theft of public mandate to their logical conclusion.” (“Challenging ECP decision proves govt ‘stole’ Daska by-polls: Maryam,” The Express Tribune, 27 February 2021)

Editorials praise ECP’s stance
An editorial in Dawn, appreciating the ECP order, says if the institution had adopted a lenient approach towards the discrepancies in the Daska by-polls, it would have sent out a wrong message “and opened the floodgates for more in the same vein.” The editorial says it is indeed heartening to witness the ECP standing its ground under the current Chief and demonstrating that the regulatory body “will tolerate nothing less than a free and fair election.” (“Null and void,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

Another editorial in The Express Tribune urges all Pakistanis to appreciate the ECP order. However, the editorial reminds those lauding the ECP today, especially the PML-N that “its own efforts to strengthen this institution were half-hearted at best.” Therefore, it reiterates that the support to the ECP should stem from an intent to strengthen it as an institution and guarantee its independence. (“Repoll order,” The Express Tribune, 27 February 2021)

Opinion pushes ECP to seize opportunity and initiate reforms
An opinion in Dawn says the Daska polls reflect the “depth of electoral manipulation in our (Pakistan’s) system.” The author says though there may not be enough time to conduct a deep systemic reform, this would be the right time to initiate basic, fundamental reforms to make the future local and general elections credible. He says, the CEC’s order for a re-poll would send a message, “if someone tampers with the electoral process, there will be consequences” and urges the ECP to institutionalise the message instead of limiting it to a one-off warning. (“Fahd Hussain, “What does Daska denote?,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Most wanted TTP commander killed in South Waziristan operation
On 26 February, the ISPR stated “During an exchange of fire, a high-value target, terrorist commander (TTP) Nooristan alias Hasan Baba, [was] killed.” The announcement came after security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation on a terrorist hideout after confirmation of terrorists’ presence in the Sharmangi area of Tiarza in South Waziristan. The TTP commander was said to be highly trained and involved in the killing of more than 50 security personnel since 2007. (“TTP commander killed in S. Waziristan operation,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

PAF celebrates second anniversary of Operation Swift Retort
On 26 February, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) celebrated the second anniversary of Operation Swift Retort at Air Headquarters (AHQ) to pay respect to the pilots and all those involved in defending the country in the 2019 operation. The Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal (ACM) while addressing the ceremony said that the PAF would thwart any misadventure by the enemy and was ready to respond with full force as per the aspirations of the nation. Further, the ACM said, “Our desire for peace must not be misunderstood and in case of any misadventure, our response would be swift, resolute and unwavering.” (“PAF celebrates 2nd anniversary of Operation Swift Retort at AHQ,” The Express Tribune, 27 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan, Qatar sign MoU for 10-year LNG supply 
On 26 February, Pakistan and Qatar signed another MoU for a long-term Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supply contract for additional 200 million cubic feet a day (MMCFD) at around 31 per cent lower rate than the 2015 contract for 500MMCFD. The 10-year agreement entailed the “lowest-ever publicly disclosed price under a long-term contract in the world.” At the signing of the MoU, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Petroleum said that the agreement was achieved through joint efforts of the political and military leaderships. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Pakistan, Qatar sign 10-year LNG supply contract,” Dawn, 27 February 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
The NATO decisions would put the Taliban under immense pressure
An opinion in The Express Tribune says that the NATO decision of not withdrawing troop as per the deadline would put the Taliban under immense pressure, adding that it is unlikely that the May deadline for the withdrawal of foreign forces would be met. Given this situation, the Taliban would be reconsidering their response to the evolving situation. Further, the opinion says the scheme of installing a transitional government being created by the time-honoured Afghan institution of a Loya Jirga or Grand Assembly is what needs to be done. The alternative to a clear action plan would be the country descending into chaos with more violence, more loss of life and more destruction. (Rustam Shah Mohmand, “The question of troops’ pullout from Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 27 February 2021)

 
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Amb Ashra Jehangir Qazi tries to find three reasons why the three main political parties have each failed to govern justly, efficiently and successfully.  According to him, “apart from the prevailing political culture and specific failings of political leaders, the answer lies in the unconstitutional, undemocratic and obstructive structures of power that underpin a façade of democratic governance.”
 
Fahd Hussain tries to analyse what does the Election Commission’s verdict on NA-75 (Daska) mean for Pakistan. Editorials in Dawn and the Express Tribune also look into the same issue.
 
On the FATF’s decision to retain Pakistan in the grey list, an editorial in the Nation is congratulatory as “nothing short of commendable.” Another editorial in the News says, that Pakistan “will now have to step up its efforts…” to “remove itself from the grey and go back into the white where it should belong.”

 

 

"Tragically, the plague of misgovernance has not abated… there is no alternative to urgently doing what it takes to engineer a comprehensive national transformation and deal with existential challenges in cooperation with even adversary countries…There is no alternative but deception and betrayal. And yet they do not care! What is to be done and how can it be done? The answers are known. Do them!"
-An opinion in Dawn on 'Saving Pakistan'

 

 


FATF to keep Pakistan on 'grey list' till June


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
FATF to keep Pakistan on 'grey list' till June
Ministry of Finance agrees to comply to remaining three action items 

On 25 February, the FATF decided to keep Pakistan on the ‘grey list’ until June 21 for not fulfilling three of the 27 action items. The FATF, however appreciated Pakistan for having made progress on the remaining 24 items, especially the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism. The FATF President urged Pakistan to fulfil the remaining conditions at the earliest. He also clarified that Pakistan would not be categorised under the black list if it fails to comply with the conditions by June. 

Pakistan to now work on three items
The remaining three items include: “demonstrating that TF (terrorist financing) investigations and prosecutions target persons and entities acting on behalf or at the directive of the designated persons or entities.” Second, “demonstrating that TF prosecutions result in effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions.” The third item is “demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1,267 and 1,373 designated terrorists, and those acting for them or on their behalf. “

FATF acknowledged Pakistan’s commitment to combat terrorism, says Finance Ministry 
Reacting to the FATF’s decision, the Ministry of Finance said, “FATF has acknowledged the continued high-level political commitment of Pakistan to combat terrorist financing which, according to FATF statement, has led to significant progress across a comprehensive countering financing of terrorism plan.” However, the Ministry agreed that there were some shortfalls on Pakistan’s side. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Pakistan to stay on FATF grey list till June,” Dawn, 26 February 2021) (Mehtab Haider, “Will have to address three remaining points till June: FATF keeps Pakistan in grey list,” The News International, 26 February 2021)

 

Government to challenge ECP’s Daska re-poll decision in SC
ECP decision shows important agencies can act without pressure, says editorial

Image Source: Dawn

On 25 February, the federal Cabinet said it would challenge the Election Commission of Pakistan’s order to hold a re-poll in NA-75, Daska. The government will challenge the decision in the Supreme Court. 

The chairman of PM’s Kamyab Naujawan Programme, Usman Dar, questioned the decision to hold re-polls in the entire constituency. He asked why the re-polls should be conducted in the constituency when discrepancies were reported in only 20 polling stations. Prime Minister Imran Khan also said he would not object to conducting re-polls in just the 20 polling stations. 

No official press release, no post-cabinet meeting press conference, reports Dawn
Dawn reports that prior to the ECP order, Usman Dar had said the government would accept any decision. However, after the ECP decided to hold re-polls, he announced the government decision to challenge it. Dawn further says contrary to the norm, the government did not release any official statement nor did the Information Minister hold a post-cabinet meeting press conference. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt to challenge ECP by-poll ruling in SC,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

Previously…
On the same day, the ECP ordered a re-poll in NA-75, Daska on 18 March. The ECP noted that, “a conducive environment was not available for the candidates and voters of the constituency, and the election in the subject constituency has not been conducted honestly, justly, fairly and in a transparent manner.” The ECP also ordered the suspension of Deputy Commissioner of Sialkot, District Police Officer of Sialkot, Assistant Commissioner of Daska, and the DSPs of Sambrial and Daska. (Iftikhar A Khan, “ECP orders re-polling in Daska on March 18,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

A welcome development in Pakistan’s electoral polls, says editorial
An editorial in The News International appreciates the ECP for standing its ground outlining that “It is always good to see state agencies act as independent bodies.” The editorial says unlike in the past, the ECP’s decision today demonstrates that “institutions of significance in the national sphere can act without pressure of any kind from the government…” This, it says, is a welcome development with regard to the elections in Pakistan. (“Decision on Daska,” The News International, 26 February 2021)

 

Pakistan and India recommit to 2003 ceasefire arrangement at LoC
Qureshi terms the agreement as a positive development

Image Source: Dawn

On 25 February, Pakistan and India recommitted themselves to the 2003 ceasefire arrangement at the Line of Control and agreed to address ‘core issues’ that could undermine peace and stability. The agreement was made after the militaries of the two countries spoke about a ‘hotline contact’ between their directors-general military operations (DGMOs) who met earlier. Further, the conversation between the two DGMOs was described as “free” and “frank” and held in a “cordial atmosphere.”
Further, the two sides agreed on reviving the existing mechanisms of the hotline contact and flag meetings for dealing with “any unforeseen situation or misunderstanding.” Additionally, they also committed to addressing core issues disturbing the ties stating, “In the interest of achieving mutually beneficial and sustainable peace, the two DGMOs agreed to address each other’s core issues/concerns which have propensity to disturb peace and lead to violence.”

‘A positive development’
FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi welcomed the agreement saying it was a positive development. He said, “It could be a good start for the future. India will have to abide by this ceasefire agreement with sincerity. How can we make progress on the issue of occupied Kashmir unless the environment is conducive.” Further, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “India desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan. We have always maintained that we are committed to addressing issues, if any, in a peaceful bilateral manner.”

2003 ceasefire agreement 
In 2003, Pakistan and India agreed to a ceasefire along the LoC and the Working Boundary. The agreement held for a few years, but regular violations have occurred since 2008. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Pakistan, India agree on LoC ceasefire,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
11 Senate seats from Punjab elected unopposed 
On 26 February, Dawn reported that there will be more election for 11 Senate seats from Punjab as all the candidates have been elected unopposed after disqualification or withdrawal of papers by other contestants. Of the 11 seats, PTI and PLM-N got five seats each, while one was taken by the PML-Quaid. Further, the ECP said that a notification for the senators elected unopposed would be issued after the polls for Senate seats in the other three provinces and the federal capital. (Amjad Mahmood, “All Senate candidates from Punjab elected unopposed,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

Justice Isa asks for live telecast of hearings on review petitions
On 25 February, Justice Qazi Faez Isa case filed an application seeking a directive that the Pakistan Television Corporation be directed to broadcast live proceedings of the hearings which are sent to start on 1 March. In the petition, he pleaded that the SC should order the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to issue a written instruction to all private channels that they would not be restrained from broadcasting the court proceedings or live streaming of the proceedings. Further, he argued that it would correct public perception as a false propaganda campaign was launched against him. (“Justice Isa seeks live telecast of hearings on review petitions,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

Supreme Court reserves its opinion whether Senate elections are to be held through open ballot
On 25 February, the Supreme Court reserved its opinion on a question introduced by the President asking for the court’s advisory jurisdiction whether coming Senate elections could be held through an open ballot. An advocate on behalf of the ECP asked the court if would be desirable if the opinion came by 28 February to which the court stated that it would consider the request. (Nasir Iqbal, “Supreme Court reserves opinion on mode of Senate polls,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
UN charter does not allow the use of force to prevent ‘future’ and ‘anticipatory’ attacks, says Munir Akram
On 26 February, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Munir Akram reminded the United Nations Security Council that the UN’s charter does not allow the use of force to prevent ‘future’ and ‘anticipatory’ attacks. He said, “Unfortunately, today the resort to unauthorised and unilateral use of force is most visible ... in foreign occupation and intervention; in denial of the right of self-determination and in the coercion of smaller and weaker States.” Further, indirectly referring to Afghanistan and India, he stated that Pakistan “faces cross border attacks by terrorist groups from the territory of the neighboring state supported by a third state.” (Anwar Iqbal, “UN Charter outlaws use of force, Pakistan reminds UNSC,” Dawn, 26 February 2021)

 
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An editorial in Dawn, appreciating the action taken against those involved in Ehsanullah Ehsan's escape, raises questions regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the whole affair
 
Najam Sethi's editorial in The Friday Times outlines critical questions regarding the PDM and Miltablishment. He says, the Miltablishment cannot continue to remain neutral in minor issues while despising the PDM, nor can the PDM succeed if the PML-N and PPP do not agree on how to deal with the Miltablishment.

 

"Pakistan has a serious pollution problem. With rapid urbanisation as well as motorisation, its poor air quality is deteriorating further, posing very significant health risks for its population as well as its economic trajectory. Concerted policy action is needed on a wide front to deal with the challenge."
-An opinion in Dawn on 'Combating pollution'

 


Intelligence agencies working under PM responsible for rigging, says Maryam


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 25 February 2021
The Election Commission calls for a re-election to the controversial NA-75 by-poll
Today, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has called the recent by-election for the National Assembly seat 75 (Daska) in Sialkot district as null and void. Last week, NA-75 witnessed the by-poll, but the election became controversial, when the Election Commission suspected the results from 20 polling stations, when the Returning Officers disappeared for a substantial period of the voting was completed.
 
The Election Commission has done the right thing. By doing so, it has also fulfilled a constitutional responsibility, by keeping the elections free from any intervention, especially the government. Since the PTI has claimed winning the seat even before the Election Commission had declared the results officially, cancelling the election and calling for a re-election should not only strengthen the ECP as an institution, but also the entire electoral process. This is a welcome development. A strong and independent election commission is an essential cog for the success of democracy.
 
The ECP’s decision should anger the PTI. Ministers had claimed last Saturday that the party had won the elections, that too with a 7000 votes lead. The PTI should accept the ECP decision; initial statements from the PTI that the delay in tracing the returning officers of the elections should not be considered as an attempt to alter the election results, does not stand scrutiny. IA Rahman writes in Dawn today, quoting media report, “the presiding officers were transported to safe places where they could raise the polling rate from 30 per cent to 80pc of the registered voters. The Election Commission got alarmed at what was happening but the local administration made itself inaccessible.” This is unacceptable.
 
For the PDM, especially the PML-N, this should be a moral victory. For the PML-N, the win or loss in one National Assembly seat (from NA-75 in this case) is not likely to alter their strength in the Parliament dramatically. However, politically, this would add to the list of their demands against the PTI. Already, there are slogans referring to Imran as vote thief, and “vote ko izzat do” meaning honour the vote. And that is what precisely the PTI should do now. It should honour the vote, and also honour the decision of the Election Commission to cancel the NA-75 results.

 

In Focus
Intelligence agencies working under PM responsible for rigging, says Maryam
CEC decision on Daska will make legacy or break the test, says opinion

On 24 February, Maryam Nawaz blamed intelligence agencies working on the orders of the Prime Minister for allegedly rigging the by-polls in Daska. She said, “Those responsible for the rigging be they from Intelligence Bureau (IB), police, PTI office-bearers, or even the chief minister or the chief secretary, they must be taken to task.” 

She warned that she would expose the names of those involved in the fraud if the Election Commission of Pakistan failed to take action against them. (Zulqernain Tahir, “Maryam blames ‘agencies under PM’ for rigging,” Dawn, 25 February 2021) Further, she demanded a re-poll in NA-75 Daska. 

Opinion lists out options for CEC in addressing Daska controversy
An opinion in Dawn says the Chief Election Commissioner‘s decision on the Daska allegations on 25 February (today), will be the test of his time. The author highlights that no election commissioner has had a glory of standing up to the system; usually they go with the flow unlike the current Chief who stood his ground in the Supreme Court. Now, the author lists out two options for the CEC which will decide if he will make legacy or break the test. 

The first set of options concern the by-polls: to declare the results as they are, announce a re-poll in the disputed 20 polling stations, declare a re-poll in the 37 odd polling stations as the PML-N initially demanded or lastly, announce fresh elections in the entire constituency. The second option relates to the way he investigates into the matter and who he holds accountable using his powers. (Fahd Hussain, “RED ZONE FILES: Dealing with the Daska debacle,” Dawn, 25 February 2021)

Meanwhile…
Maryam Nawaz has urged the Supreme Court to stay out of the Senate elections controversy. She said any relief to the government would be perceived as the court’s bias. (Iqtidar Gilani, “Maryam demands re-polling in NA-75,” The Nation, 25 Fenruary 2021)

 

Pakistan to extend USD 50 million credit line to Sri Lanka
Offered to hold dialogue with India but got no positive response, says Imran

Image Source: Dawn

On 24 February, Imran Khan announced to offer USD 50 million as a credit line to Sri Lanka to increase cooperation in areas of defence and security. In a joint communique, Pakistan and Sri Lanka called for “stronger partnership in matters related to security, terrorism, organised crime and drug and narcotics trafficking as well as intelligence-sharing.” 

MoUs signed, countries extend sports and cultural diplomacy
Apart from defence and security, Pakistan called for improvement of sports diplomacy; for this, Pakistan will be extending USD 52 million. Further, Pakistan has proposed to build Asian Civilisation and Culture Centre. This will be located at the University of Peradeniya in Kandy. Other MoUs were signed regarding tourism, investment, interaction between universities and colleges. 

Countries set USD one billion trade target
During the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Conference, the two countries spoke about the importance of having a USD one billion trade target and outlined the need to work on the  Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA). (“Pakistan offers $50m credit line to Sri Lanka for defence ties,” Dawn, 25 February 2021)

Imran accuses India of not responding to his offers to hold dialogue
In the same conference, Imran said he had “offered the Indian government a chance to hold peace talks with Pakistan after getting elected, but nothing came out of it.” He maintained that Kashmir was the only sticking point between Pakistan and India and could be addressed only through dialogue. (“Nothing came out of talks offer to India: PM,” The News International, 25 February 2021)

 

DG ISPR says officers involved in Ehsanullah’s escape taken to task
Denies knowing about the TTP spokesman’s location

Image Source: Dawn

On 24 February, the DG ISPR said action has been taken against those involved in the escape of TTP spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan from custody. He also confirmed those who had a hand in his escape were from the army. However, he had no knowledge about Ehsanullah’s whereabouts. Recently, Ehsanullah had come to media attention after he tweeted a threat to Malala Yousufzai. His asked Malala to return to Pakistan and it read, “we have a score to settle with you and your father...This time there will be no mistake.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, "Action taken against officers over Ehsanullah’s escape: army," Dawn, 25 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Two Domki community members killed
On 24 February, two people were killed and two others belonging to the Domki community suffered injuries in an attack in the Bhand area of Suhbatpur district, Nasirabad division. Officials stated that a group of members of the Shar community opened fire on people resulting in casualties. (“Two killed in attack,” Dawn, 25 February 2021)

Parliament is the forum that must decide the method of voting for the Senate elections, says CJP
On 24 February, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed stated that parliament is the forum that should decide the method of voting for the Senate elections, including the degree of secrecy to be allowed. He said, “If the Constitution says there must be secret balloting, then that’s the end of the matter,” adding, “The Supreme Court is not a substitute to parliament.” Further, the CJP said, “We will not take matters, the parliament is authorised to carry out, into our own hands.” (“Senate elections: Parliament to decide on open or secret vote: CJP,” The News International, 25 February 2021)

Pakistan incurs USD 38 billion economic losses due to the FATF’s greylisting
On 24 February, a new research paper published by an independent think-tank stated that the FATF grey-listing spanning from 2008 to 2019 may have resulted in cumulative real GDP losses of approximately USD 38 billion for Pakistan. The losses are worked out based on the reduction in consumption expenditures, exports, and foreign direct investment (FDI). (“Bearing the Cost of Global Politics,” Tabadlab, 25 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistani authorities close the Pak-Iran border in Panjgur district
On 24 February, an official from the Panjgur administration stated, “We have closed the border with Iran at Zero Point Sakan of Saravan district of Iran after firing and violent incidents on the Iranian side.” The announcement was made after reports stated that violent demonstrations continued in the Saravan area as mobs attacked government offices and ransacked and burnt down several vehicles in its main town. (Saleem Shahid, “Pak-Iran border near Panjgur closed,” Dawn, 25 February 2021)

“We only aim for a long-lasting peace in Afghanistan,” says DG ISPR
On 24 February, Director General (DG) of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar stated that Pakistan has done what it could do to influence the Taliban, stating, “Even Afghan leaders are admitting that Pakistan has done utmost for peace in Afghanistan,” adding, “We only aim for a long-lasting peace in Afghanistan.” Further, he stated “Afghanistan now is not what it was in the ’90s and the state infrastructure cannot be trounced, and Pakistan also has changed…It’s impossible for the Taliban to recapture Kabul and that Pakistan would support them. It isn’t going to happen.” (Muhammad Anis, “Pakistan to continue to support Afghan peace process: DG ISPR,” The News International, 25 February 2021)

ON PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Pakistan to be made stronger to resolve Kashmir issue, says PoK President 
On 24 February, PoK President Sardar Masood Ahmed Khan urged the youth to utilise their energies for the development of the country as a strengthened Pakistan could play a leading role in resolving the Kashmir issue. Further, he said that the main purpose for the creation of Pakistan was to get an independent state for the Muslims based on the two-nation theory, however, Pakistan remains incomplete without Kashmir. He said that the international community must be pushed to address the issue, adding that Pakistan must develop a political ecosystem. (“AJK president for making Pakistan stronger to resolve Kashmir issue,” The News International, 25 February 2021)

India exploited the pandemic to change Kashmir’s demography, says Mazari
On 24 February, Minister for Human Rights, Dr Shireen Mazari while highlighting the alleged Indian atrocities in Kashmir stated the following at virtual meeting of the 46th session of UN Human Rights Council. She said that Kashmir was witnessing “a full-blown human rights crisis,” adding, “India consolidated its illegal and unilateral actions of 5th August 2019 before the world.” Further, she said that India exploited the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate the pace of its alleged colonization project in Kashmir. 

She added, “India is usurping Kashmiri people’s inalienable right to self-determination in wilful breach of the UN Charter, UN Security Council resolutions, and international law…This Final Solution , as the fascist BJP-RSS regime calls it, can be a major precursor to the genocide of Kashmiri people,” adding, “eight million Kashmiris have been caged up in one of the world’s largest concentration camps. Using draconian laws, Indian forces have intensified systematic use of summary executions, torture and rape as a weapon.”

Further, critical of right groups and their silence she said, “Some of the leading Human Rights advocates continue to prioritize political, strategic and commercial interests over human rights values and principles.” (“Covid-19 pandemic: India exploited virus to change IIOJ&K’s demography: Mazari,” The News International, 25 February 2021)

 
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IA Rahaman’s column in Dawn looks at the latest controversy over the NA-75 bypoll, and asks: Was Daska a rehearsal for a new way to manage elections?
 
Aitzaz Ahzan revisits the horror that Mukhtaran Mai faced in the tribal jirga, and also later in the courts. He also refers to the latest judicial development relating to the case, with the judgement by Justice Ayesha Malik, on a crucial issue relating to the virginity of the victim. Ahsan writes about the judgement (in January 2021) and says: “It brings about bold and necessary changes that will make a real and positive difference by vanquishing archaic practices.” He links the late judge of the US Supreme Court, Justice Ginsberg (RBG), with Justice Ayesha Malik for attacking “the most pervasive” though fictional “stereotype in our law – that men are independent and women are men’s dependents”.

 

"Democracy has been in contention over the past fortnight or so. The honours so far have been claimed by both the disorganised democratic camp and the organised, well-oiled establishment...The fact is that the path to a democratic dispensation lies in promoting a democratic culture of equality for citizens. But Pakistan’s rulers are taking pride in increasing inequalities on the basis of belief, gender differentials and social class. No wonder democracy has become a contentious issue."
-An opinion in Dawn
by I.A. Rehman 'Democracy in contention'

 


Pakistan, Sri Lanka discuss trade cooperation and regional security


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 24 February 2021
Imran Khan in Sri Lanka
As a part of his two days trip to Sri Lanka, Imran Khan landed in Colombo yesterday (23 February 2021, Tuesday), and was received by the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. This is the first trip for Imran Khan to Sri Lanka as a Prime Minister, and also for the first visit by a Head of the State that Mahinda Rajapaksa is receiving, after becoming the Prime Minister last year. Besides meeting Mahinda Rajapaksa, Imran Khan also met the former’s brother – President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
 
Yesterday, both countries have agreed to expand their relations in the economic field. Imran Khan invited Sri Lanka to make use of Pakistan to reach out to Central Asia, as a part of expanding the latter’s connectivity. In Imran Khan’s words: “My visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relationship (with Sri Lanka), especially trade and economic ties through enhanced connectivity.” Dawn, in its report, mentioned about 40 leading Pakistani businessmen accompanying Imran Khan and the Pakistan mission in Colombo “inviting 200 top businessmen and investors from Sri Lanka to the joint trade and investment conference.” According to available news report, a few MoU were signed between the two countries in areas relating to tourism, investment, education, and technology. Pakistan’s foreign minister Qureshi, who is also in Sri Lanka along with Imran Khan announced 100 scholarships to Sri Lankans to study in Pakistan’s medical institutions.
 
Imran Khan did not miss a chance to bring India-Pakistan relations. While addressing Pakistan-Sri Lanka trade and investment Conference, he was quoted to have stated: “We offered India to holds talks but the country did not pay heed to it…Immediately when I came into power, I approached our neighbour India and explained to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the way forward for the subcontinent is to resolve our differences through dialogue.” He also said, “our only dispute is on Kashmir and it can only be resolved through dialogue.”
 
Rhetoric apart, what did Imran Khan attempt to achieve with his high-profile tour to Sri Lanka? And what did Colombo try to achieve by hosting Imran Khan? Visits at the highest levels are planned in advance and have strategic objectives. What is strategic about Imran’s visit and the Rajapaksas’ hosting him?

 

In Focus
Pakistan, Sri Lanka discuss trade cooperation and regional security
Islamabad extends USD 15 million to combat terrorism

On 23 February, Imran Khan and Mahinda Rajapaksa signed five MoUs to improve “bilateral cooperation in the fields of investment, science and technology, and industrial technology.” Imran, along with Mahinda, addressed a joint press conference; Iman said Pakistan could enjoy better connectivity up to Central Asia from the CPEC projects since it comes under the Belt and Road Initiative of which Sri Lanka is a part. 

FM Qureshi discusses security cooperation
On the same day, FM Qureshi who also accompanied Imran on the visit highlighted the need for defence cooperation between the two countries. For this, Pakistan has a credit line worth USD 15 million to Sri Lanka. Further, Imran pushed for dialogue to resolve disputes in South Asia to promote “the vision of peace, progress and prosperity.”

In this regard, Pakistan and Sri Lanka “reiterated their commitment to the principles and objectives of Saarc charter and agreed to take forward the Saarc process for regional cooperation.” 

Imran Khan outlines importance of cultural ties
Imran invited Mahinda to Pakistan citing that the country had several heritage sites including the civilisations of Gandhara and Buddhism. He said this could be a stepping stone towards religious tourism. (“PM advises Sri Lanka to benefit from CPEC,” Dawn, 24 February 2021) (“‘CPEC to enhance Sri Lanka connectivity up to Central Asia’,” The News International, 24 February 2021) (“Pakistan to give 100 scholarships to Sri Lankan students in top medical schools: FM Qureshi,” The News International, 24 February 2021)

 

Returning officer proposes repolling in 14 stations
Daska by-polls indicate dangerous trend of hostility ahead, says editorial 

Image Source: The News International

On 23 February, the Returning Officer proposed to hold re-election in 14 polling stations. In a report submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan, the RO expressed concerns that the Daska by-polls results were rigged by presiding officers of 23 polling stations. (“Daska by-elections: RO says it seems some results altered,” The News International, 24 February 2021) In two different sets of forms-45 that the RO submitted, there were discrepancies in the number of votes polled. 

Dawn obtained a copy of the report; it says only 13 of the 20 presiding officers who had disappeared after polling, had come for the investigation by the provincial election commissioner and the joint provincial election commissioner of Punjab in Daska. The officers also seemed to give typical answers of being caught in fog and being late to report with the polling results. 

FAFEN calls for bold actions 

The Free and Fair Elections Network said ECP should take bold steps to stop the “militarisation” of elections in the future. It was critical of the firing outside the NA-75 and the disappearance of the presiding officers and other election material including ballots. The FAFEN said the above resulted due to the “failure of police and security forces, who were responsible for safe and prompt delivery of election material.” (Iftikhar A Khan, “RO proposes re-polling at 14 stations in Daska,” Dawn, 24 February 2021)

Opinion highlights nervousness of PTI

An opinion in Dawn says the NA-75 incident indicates that the “PTI lost its nerve as it tried to snatch a National Assembly seat in the PML-N heartland.” The author says, it is a tough road ahead for the PTI to defend its actions in front of the Opposition. He further outlines the happenings of the polling day, including the shooting, and says all of it reflected a collapse of law and order.  Further, he says while the establishment may seem to be neutral at the moment, it is not likely to remain so during the Senate elections; it will not allow the Opposition to topple the PTI government. He concludes, “It is a war of nerves between a shaky government and a strident opposition coalition. It remains to be seen who wins the battle.” (Zahid Hussain, “The political chessboard,” Dawn, 24 February 2021)

Editorial calls for dialogue between political parties
An editorial in The News International says the violence in Daska could be an indicator of the “ hostility in the days to come.” It says since the country is already going through an extremely divisive phase, it would be better if political parties could sit together and arrange for local elections in the future without the violence and the major rifts. (“Election wars,” The News International, 24 February 2021)

 

France summons Pakistan envoy over President Alvi’s statements
Says Pakistan must adopt a constructive attitude 

Image Source: The News International

On 22 February, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in France summoned Pakistan’s charge d’affaires to mark to protest over President Dr Arif Alvi remarks that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims. The ministry expressing objection said, “our surprise and our disapproval [over Dr Alvi’s remarks], given that the bill contains no discriminatory element.” Further, the ministry added, “It is guided by the basic principles of freedom of religion and conscience, makes no distinction between the different religions and applies therefore equally to all faiths. Pakistan must understand this and adopt a constructive attitude for our bilateral relations.”

Previously…
President Alvi critical of the “anti-separatism” that was adopted in the lower house of the French Parliament said, “When you see that laws are being changed in favour of a majority to isolate a minority that is a dangerous precedent.” Further, he said, “When you insult the Prophet [Peace be upon him], you insult all Muslims. I urge the political leadership of France not to entrench these attitudes into laws... You have to bring people together — not to stamp a religion in a certain manner and create disharmony among the people or create bias.” (“Paris raps Pakistan over Alvi’s remarks on new legislation,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan ranked 29th position on the list of countries with most COVID-19 tests
On 24 February, Dawn reported that according to the website, www.worldometers.info Pakistan ranked 29th position in the list of 30 countries that have conducted the greatest number of tests per million population (PMP). The website stated that the country has carried out 39,136 tests per million population. Further, the website says that over the last one year, Pakistan has conducted 8.7 million tests overall. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan ranks low on list of countries with most tests,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Tehran should not believe that a rigid stance would coerce the US into showering favours, says opinion
An opinion in The News International while commenting on the recent development in Iran says that Tehran should not believe that a rigid stance would coerce the West and the US into showering favours on them. The opinion says that there will be provocations from certain hardliners in the US administration, however, displaying patience will help China, Russia, the EU and all those other stakeholders that want to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and sanctions peacefully. The opinion thus suggests that the Iranian leadership should ignore such provocations, adding that it is this patience in the past which has prompted the international community to come up with the Iran nuclear deal and its prudence now will force them to lift the sanctions. (Abdul Sattar, “Abdul Sattar, Iran and the sanctions,” The News International, 24 February 2022)

 
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An editorial in Dawn reviews the counter militancy operations and the return of militancy in North Waziristan, with the killing of four aid workers in the backdrop. Another editorial on the same issue by the News, says Pakistan needs to keep examining its strategy against terrorism. The Express Tribune argues, “the uptick in attacks along the border with Afghanistan must be brought up with the government in Kabul.”
 
On the economy, an editorial analyses the decline in the Foreign Direct Investment into Pakistan. On the same issue, another editorial in the Nation comments, “the government ought to not panic too much over these numbers nor blame itself—this is, after all, a comparison between post-pandemic and pre-pandemic numbers.”
 
Zahid Hussain comments on the meaning and the implications of rigging in NA-75 by-elections. He argues: “Losing in a fair election would not have cost the ruling party as much as the damage done now by the failed attempt to allegedly manipulate the poll result.”

 

"Nothing, however, quite underscores the return of violent extremism as does the mass murder of innocent women working for the good of society. And make no mistake, this act, the very audacity of it, was meant to send a message: the militants are confident enough to again carry out the kind of attacks that spread terror in large swathes of the country not too long ago."
-An editorial in Dawn
on the 'Return of militancy'

 


Military dismisses rumours about appointing new ISI chief


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 23 February 2021
The bizarre approach of the PTI to NA-75
Today (Tuesday), a report by the ARY has confirmed what was feared. The report quoted the Returning Officer (RO) of the NA-75 by-poll, that 23 presiding officers from 23 polling stations were found involved in rigging.
 
The NA-75 seat in Sialkot has been a PML-N fortress; it has won the last three elections in 2018, 2013 and 2008. So, when the PTI party members claimed victory much before any formal announcement from the Election Commission of Pakistan in the by-poll, it was a surprise and a shock. The Election Commission of Pakistan however refused to make an announcement and was cautious. It feared fraud and the Chief Election Commissioner approached the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner to find about the missing district returning officers and returning officers. Something was amiss.
It is confirmed now.
 
But why would the PTI try to commit fraud? For winning a single National Assembly seat? What was it trying to prove? One seat is not likely to alter the status quo in Parliament. With the Opposition parties under the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) already on a warpath, this is adding fire to their fuel. This is not pennywise, pound foolish; this is just foolish.

 

In Focus
Military dismisses rumours about appointing new ISI chief
Appointments in military are not short lived, says DG ISPR

On 22 February, the DG ISPR dismissed speculations about the appointment of a new ISI chief. He emphasised that appointments in the military, “at the senior level are not short-lived.” Further, he said appointments as head of any lasts for two years normally; the current DG ISI Lt Gen Faiz Hameed was appointed in June 2019. 

Speculations about replacing Faiz Hameed circulated on social media
Recently, several speculations about the replacing Lt Gen Faiz Hameed were making rounds on social media. Further, some said former DG ISPR chief Lt Gen Asif Ghafoor would replace the ISI chief. Other rumours outlined that the DG ISI would be replaced soon after the Senate elections.

Dismissing these claims, the DG ISPR said, “There is no truth in reports and there is also no need to speculate further.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Military rejects speculation about ISI chief,” Dawn, 23 February 2021) (Muhammad Anis, “War on terror victory impossible sans public support’: ISI chief not being replaced, says DG ISPR,” The News International, 23 February 2021)

 

FDI drops by 27 per cent in July-January for FY21
Net inflow from China falls to USD 402.8 million

Image Source: Dawn

On 22 February, the State Bank of Pakistan data showed that the FDI during July-January during FY 21 had fallen by 27 per cent compared to the same period in FY20. The FDI stood at USD 1.145 billion during July-January FY21 whereas in FY20, in the same period, it stood at USD 1.577 billion. 

Country-wise data shows net FDI from China declined 
As per the data, the net inflow from China during the above seven months stood at USD 408.2 million compared to USD 502.6 million in the same period in FY20. Further, net inflow from Norway also fell from USD 288 million in FY20 for the July-January period to USD 122 million in FY21 for the same period. 

Power sector investments increase year-on-year 
The SBP data revealed that the investment in the power sector increased by 27.6 per cent from USD 373 million in FY20 in the July-January period to USD 475.8 million in FY21 in the corresponding period. Financial banks also attracted more investments over the year. However, investments in the oil and gas sector fell. (Shahid Iqbal, “27pc drop in foreign direct investment,” Dawn, 23 February 2021)

 

CJP to decide bench composition for Justice Isa case
Justice Gulzar may constitute larger review bench if required

Image Source: Dawn

On 22 February, a six-member bench referred the matter of deciding the composition of the  bench, for hearing the review petitions related to the Justice Isa case, to the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The bench maintained that the CJP should include the author judge in the review bench; however, there is no obligation to include the same judges in the review bench. Further, the CJP may constitute a larger review bench as per the importance of the matter; otherwise, the numerical strength of the review bench can remain the same as the original bench, “regardless of whether the judgement under review was passed unanimously or by majority.” (Nasir Iqbal, “CJP to decide composition of bench in Isa case,” Dawn, 23 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PM asks PTI members to “leave the party” if they intend to sell their votes
On 22 February, PM Imran Khan critical of horse-trading amid the Senate elections told the PTI lawmakers from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to “leave the party” if they intended to sell their votes. According to The News International, sources have confirmed that 20 lawmakers, 14 MNAs and six MPAs were absent from the meeting chaired by the PM. (“20 PTI MPs remain absent from PM’s meeting,” The News International, 23 February 2020)

Inquiry report for NA-75 by-polls sent to ECP
On 23 February, The News International reported that a preliminary inquiry report on NA-75 Daska by-polls suspected tampering of results and disappearance of 20 presiding officers has been completed and sent to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). Further, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is likely to meet on 23 February (today) to decide the matter. (“NA-75 by-polls: Inquiry report sent to ECP, decision likely today,” The News International, 23 February 2020)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan to host World Environment Day
On 23 February, Pakistan’s Adviser to Prime Minister and Minister of Climate Change Pakistan announced that the country will host World Environment Day 2021 in partnership with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). The theme for this year is ‘ecosystem restoration’ focusing on resetting relations with nature. It will also mark the formal launch of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021 – 2030. Further, this announcement comes amid PM Imran Khan’s afforestation efforts to expand and restore the country’s forests through a '10 Billion Tree Tsunami' spread over 5 years. (Afshan S. Khan, “Pakistan to host World Environment Day 2021,” The News International, 23 February 2020)

FM meets with Qatar envoy, hopes the US, Taliban continue to abide by peace accord
On 22 February, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with the Special Envoy of Foreign Minister of Qatar Dr Mutlaq bin Majed Al-Qahtani. During the meeting, FM Qureshi hoped that “progress on the implementation of the US-Taliban peace agreement would be maintained” to achieve a political settlement of the Afghanistan conflict, adding, “the collective efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan would bear fruit.” Further, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security situation, cooperation in several fields. (“FM hopes US, Taliban continue to abide by peace accord,” Dawn, 23 February 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Unless Myanmar transforms its elite configuration, it will remain trapped in the cycle of regime oscillations, says opinion
An opinion in The Express Tribune critical of the situation in Myanmar says that the occurrence of five regime transitions in Myanmar since its independence in 1948 can collectively be termed regime oscillations. Further, the opinion notes that until and unless Myanmar transforms its elite configuration from disunity to consensual unity, it will remain perpetually trapped in the cycle of regime oscillations even while it may experience temporary long spells of limited stability. (Anish Mishra, “Regime oscillations in Myanmar,” The Express Tribune, 23 February 2020)

Digital crime is on the rise in Pakistan, says opinion
An opinion in The Express Tribune critical of the rise in digital crime across Pakistan says that such crimes have become easier with a majority of the people being Illiterate or uneducated and thus not tech-familiar. Among the major threats is the biometric data breach, for which the opinion suggests that Personally Identifiable Information (PII) must not be on the cloud, OTP must be activated for every ATM transaction and cellular companies must use at least two scans among other suggestions. Further, the opinion says that authorities concerned must be a step ahead of digital thieves to secure their systems and save people from cyber frauds. (Syed Khurram Jawaid, “Countering digital thieves,” The Express Tribune, 23 February 2020)

 
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Dawn, referring to the attack on Geo offices in Karachi yesterday, in its editorial says the attack “expose the government’s hollow claims of a ‘free media.’ The News fixes the blame on the government, and its editorial argues: the responsibility of protecting the media lies with the government and state institutions. Another editorial in Dawn argues on the latest election violence and says, that the ‘mystery’ must not remain unsolved.

 

"Conservation strategies in Pakistan have remained problematic both for the government and for communities living in the protected areas...Pakistan’s conservation policy should be research-based and participatory. It is the duty of the federal government to safeguard the rights of indigenous people over the natural resources of their areas and help them in every walk of life to build resilience."
-An opinion in The News International
on 'Inadequate conservation'

 


By-elections turn controversial and violent


Photo: The News International



In Focus
By-elections turn controversial and violent
ECP orders inquiry into Daska results

On 21 February, Nawaz Sharif rejected “the disappearance of the presiding officers in Daska and over 90 per cent turnout in specific polling stations instead of 30 per cent.” He demanded re-election in the NA-75 constituency in Daska. On the same day, the Election Commission of Pakistan ordered the returning officer to launch a probe into the results of the constituency. 

The News International quoted the INP which reported that after the polling process in the NA-75 by-polls, results of 20 polling stations were brought in “with extraordinary delay.” Further, the presiding officers of these polling stations were not reachable till the next morning. 

Maryam Nawaz visits Daska
On 21 February, Maryam Nawaz addressed a gathering at Daska. She maintained that the people of Daska and Wazirabad had resisted every effort made to steal their vote including “brutal use of police and state machinery.” Further, Maryam Nawaz visited the family of a party worker who was killed in a clash with a PTI member during the by-polls. She said, “the PML-N owned its workers” in contrast to the PTI which, according to her,  is neither a party nor does it have a future. 

PML-N shedding crocodile tears, says Shibli Faraz
On the same day, Information Minister Shibli Faraz said the PML-N leadership had turned “wild and frustrated” and claimed that Nawaz was losing the support of people because of the “mass acceptance of Prime Minister Imran Khan.” He blamed the PML-N for the death of the party workers on the polling day; he said PML-N leadership was shedding crocodile tears after having  “refreshed the memories of Model Town massacre.” (Wasim Ashraf Butt and Amjad Mahmood, “Focus on Daska as PML-N seeks fresh vote in entire NA-75,” Dawn, 22 February 2021) (“Daska by-election: War of words goes on,” The News International, 22 February 2021)

Meanwhile…
The Nation reported that the ECP will announce the by-polls results after it receives the complete report of the investigation into the NA-75 results. Further, the Chief Election Commissioner had tried to contact the Punjab IGP regarding the alleged kidnapping of the presiding officers but to no avail. (Mansoor Ali, “NA-75 by-poll results: All eyes on ECP,” The Nation, 22 February 2021)

 

Pakistan qualifies to be moved from the ‘Grey List’ out on merit, say officials
Final decision to be announced on 25 February

Image Source: Dawn

On 22 February, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) began its plenary meeting. Ahead of the meeting, the general opinion stands divided with some diplomats and experts saying that Pakistan may remain in the increased monitoring list/ ‘grey list’ suggesting that the country would remain on the list until June. However, authorities have asserted that the country qualifies to be moved out on merit. Further, Pakistani officials said that if decisions are based on merit, then the country's name will be likely removed from the grey list. The FATF is set to announce a final decision on the conclusion of the four-day virtual plenary on 25 February. (Khaleeq Kiani, “All eyes on FATF plenary beginning today,” Dawn, 22 February 2021) (“If decisions are based on merit: Pakistan will be removed from FATF grey list,” The News International, 22 February 2021)

Meanwhile, an editorial in The Nation says that considering Pakistan’s commitment and compliance with FATF’s requirements it is time for the country to be removed from the grey list. Further, it adds that Pakistan’s efforts should its willingness to comply and is doing so as a responsible country. (“The Grey List,” The Nation, 22 February 2021)

Pakistan’s current status
According to the FATF’s latest update, Pakistan has shown improving compliance on two out of 40 recommendations of the FATF on the effectiveness of anti-money laundering and combating financing terror (AML/CFT) systems. Further, it found Pakistan’s progress non-compliant on four counts, partially compliant on 25 counts and largely compliant on nine recommendations. However, the evaluation at the plenary would be based on the 27-point action plan and not on these 40 recommendations.

Concerning the 27-point action plan, Pakistan fully complied with 21 out of the 27-point action plan in 2020, however after a series of legislations and amendment, the Foreign Office spokesman stated that Pakistan has made substantive progress on the remaining six items of the FATF action plan and was duly acknowledged by the wider FATF membership.

Pakistan and the FATF: A brief history 
Pakistan has been on the FATF’s grey list for deficiencies in its counter-terror financing and anti-money laundering regimes since June 2018. Pakistan was to implement a 27-point action plan by the end of 2019, however, due to the pandemic, the deadline was extended giving the country more space to rush through with its legislation. In October 2020, the FATF had announced that Pakistan had made progress across all action plan items and “largely addressed 21 of the 27 action items”. As all action plan deadlines stood expired, the FATF had said it strongly urged Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan by February 2021. Following the meeting, Pakistan has complied with the six remaining recommendations and submitted the details of the FATF secretariat.

 

Mob attacks central office of Geo and Jang Media Group 
Sindh and Sindhis are part of identity, says TV anchor

Image Source: The News International

On 21 February, a mob broke into the central office of the Geo and Jang Media Group in Karachi and attacked the media house’s staff and damaged property. The Geo News Karachi Bureau Chief protests against the Group were announced beforehand; however, no law enforcement had been in place nor was any action taken against those who attacked the office. He said, protests took place after some people “were enraged over a video from a Geo News programme on social media, the edited version of which has gone viral.” However, the TV anchor of the programme clarified that his show is a work of satire and comedy. The content over which people are enraged had to do with Sindhis; therefore, the anchor said “Sindh and Sindhis are a part of my identity. My life is dedicated to Sindh and Sindhis.” 

Meanwhile, the Information Minister, Sindh government, PPP, and other officials have condemned the attack. (“Attack on Jang-Geo offices in Karachi, reception ransacked, workers besieged,” The News International, 22 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Justice Isa questions CJP’s “unstructured discretion” powers
On 22 February, The Express Tribune reported that Justice Isa has raised questions about the discretionary powers exercised by the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP). Previously, in a letter the CJP, Justice Isa while building his case against “unstructured discretion” said, “If the Executive’s transgressions are not checked, and instead benches are reconstituted and judges restrained, the people suffer. To exclude senior judges from benches when important constitutional issues are to be heard neither serves the institution nor the people.” (“Justice Isa questions CJP’s discretionary powers,” The Express Tribune, 22 February 2021)

ON INDIA
India alleged proxy war against Pakistan by funding global terrorist outfits
On 22 February, the Nation reported that India has allegedly launched a proxy war against Pakistan by baking global terrorist outfits, deploying a sufficient military in Afghanistan, thousands of paramilitary soldiers and launching an aid programme. Further, it alleges that India is using Afghan soil to build and unify various fugitive and terrorist outfits, financed with billions of US dollars, and then being sent to carry out terrorist activities in various cities of Pakistan. (“India distributes $500m among global terrorist outfits,” The Nation, 22 February 2021)

 
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An editorial in the Nation looks at the FATF prospects for Pakistan in the forthcoming meeting.
 
Maleeha Lodhi writes on Afghanistan and Biden’s strategy. Huma Yusuf analyses the concerns relating to militancy, with the latest tweet by Ehsanullah Ehsan, on Malala. On the eve of Imran Khan’s visit to Sri Lanka, Kama Siddiqui writes on the issue of cremations in Sri Lanka.

 
 

 


PML-N starts celebrations as unofficial results show party’s lead


Photo: The News International



PR Editorial, 19 February 2021
Return of the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
Today, when the Karachi Kings, the defending champion of Pakistan Super League (PSL) takes on the Quetta Gladiators, the 2019 champions in Karachi, it should start a new phase not only for the PSL, but also for cricket in Pakistan.
 
The sixth edition of the PSL not only means the return of cricket to Pakistan, but also the return of international cricketers to play in the local stadiums. The last few editions had to be played in the Gulf, due to the security situation inside Pakistan. Though the PSL returned to Pakistan for the final league matches, the initial ones were played in the Gulf. Though the matches would be played primarily in Karachi and Lahore, it is still a welcome development. Second, the number of international cricketers in the latest edition, when compared to the earlier ones. It is no more the old and discarded ones playing the PSL; there are some big names from the West Indies to New Zealand playing in the PSL.
 
Now Pakistan has succeeded in getting cricket back to the country and has also attracted international players, it has to keep the game clean. Besides the security question, the issue of corruption has been another issue that had plagued Pakistani cricket. The PSL has to ensure that the games remain transparent.
 
Let the games begin.

 

In Focus
PML-N starts celebrations as unofficial results show party’s lead
Election violence kills two in Sialko
 

On 19 February, unofficial results showed PML-N leading with three wins in the by-polls held for four constituencies. By-elections were held for two National Assembly seats in Daska and Kurram tribal district, and two provincial constituencies in Gujranwala and Nowshera. 

The PML-N’s win in Nowshera is a surprise as PTI has been in power in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since 2013. Further, the win contradicted the confidence of former KP Chief Minister and the current Defence Minister as both placed their confidence in PTI and said the PTI would comfortably win the seat. 

Meanwhile, the PML-N  was able to retain its seats in Daska and Gujranwala seats, which the party had won in 2018 as well. (“PDM candidate wins Nowshera constituency in by-poll upset,” Dawn, 20 February 2021)

PML-N starts celebrations
Though the Election Commission of Pakistan is yet to announce the results, Maryam Nawaz shared the results. She called them the "complete result" which the party won "despite massive, blatant rigging.” She tweeted several videos as proof of rigging and called on PML-N supporters to guard their vote. She also accused the PTI of delaying the voting procedure by tweeting a video of PML-N supporters breaking open into a polling station as they were made to wait for hours. 

Two killed in clashes between political workers
On the same day, two people were killed and eight injured in clashes between PTI and PML-N workers at Gondka polling station in Daska. One of the deceased was a PML-N supporter, while the other supported the PTI. Following the incident, police and Rangers were deployed in the area and polling was suspended in 15 stations of the constituency.

The PML-N and the PTI members have accused each other of inciting the violence. Meanwhile, the Punjab Chief Minister has asked the Punjab IGP to send a report on the incident. (“Unofficial by-poll results: PML-N leads on three seats, PTI on one,” The News International, 20 February 2021) (“Two killed as violent clashes mar Sialkot by-poll,” The Express Tribune, 20 February 2021)

 

Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan, says FM Qureshi
“Pakistan is committed to efforts for peace in Afghanistan as it is important for peace in Pakistan,” says COAS

Image Source: ISPR

On 19 February, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that Pakistan had no favourites in Afghanistan. He urged all sides to work together constructively for peace, stability and prosperity, adding this, in turn, would help in creating opportunities for trade, economic cooperation and regional connectivity. Further, he stressed on the opportunity for peace must be seized by the Afghan leaders to achieve an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement. (“Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan: Qureshi,” The News International, 20 February 2021)

COAS meet with Russian envoy and US Centcom Commander to discuss Afghan negotiations
On 19 February, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa met with US Centcom Commander Gen Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr. during which he reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Afghan peace process. During the meeting, he said, “Pakistan is committed to efforts for peace in Afghanistan as it is important for peace in Pakistan.” Further, the two discussed matters of mutual interest and regional security situation with particular reference to the ongoing Afghanistan reconciliation process. (“Pakistan committed to Afghan peace process, says Bajwa,” Dawn, 20 February 2020)

On the same day, the COAS met with Russian Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan Ambassador Zamir Kabulov. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, particularly developments in the Afghan peace process were discussed. Further, the envoy said, “Pak-Russia relations will continue to prosper manifolds.” (“COAS, Russian envoy discuss Afghan peace process,” The Express Tribune, 20 February 2020)

Peace in Afghanistan means peace for Pakistan, says Wali Massoud
On 19 February, Ahmad Wali Massoud, Chairman of the Massoud Foundation said that he had come to Pakistan with a message of love saying, “I have come with a message of friendship and peace. Peace in Afghanistan means peace for Pakistan.” Further, he emphasised on the special bond Pakistan and Afghanistan share. (“Peaceful Afghanistan to ensure stable Pakistan: Wali Massoud,” The Nation, 20 February 2020)

Time those that wield power in that country took bold decisions and put an end to the war, says editorial
An editorial in Dawn critical of the situation in Afghanistan with the situation on the ground being far from ideal, should the parallel peace processes between the Afghan Taliban and the US/Nato alliance and between the Taliban and the government in Kabul collapse the situation will only degenerate further. The editorial says several generations in Afghanistan have seen nothing but war; it is time those that exercise power make bold decisions and put an end to the long-drawn war for the Afghan people. (“Afghanistan peace?,” Dawn, 20 February 2020)

 

Pakistan’s strategic position keeps global powers interested 
Pakistan’s foreign policy was aimed at friendly relations with the world

Image Source: Dawn

An article in The Nation says that the close relation Pakistan shares with the top three world powers– the United States, China and Russia – is a diplomatic miracle owing to its important strategic position. As stated by FM Qureshi, “No country has a problem if we are friendly to all of them. It is our diplomatic success that they all have confidence in us. Pakistan gives importance to its ties with China, Russia and the US.”

Quotable: Pakistan and the three big powers
FM Qureshi has stated that Pakistan’s relations with China China is historic and there had never been a break saying, “China is our Iron Brother. Our ties are beyond cooperation. We are brothers and have been standing with each other at all levels.”
With the US, Pakistan always had close ties stating, “We are in contact with the new US administration and are going through smoothly.”
With Russia, a new partnership was building and the two countries had identical views on several international issues, adding, “the cooperation with Russia is increasing day by day. The two countries have never been this close.” (Shafqat Ali, “Strategic importance keeps Pakistan close to top 3 world powers,” The Nation, 20 February 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Five soldiers killed in another South Waziristan attack
On 19 February, five soldiers were killed while another was injured when terrorists attacked a security check-post in the Sara Rogha area of South Waziristan. No group has accepted responsibility for the attack. This incident comes amid the recent surge of attacks in the district. Previously, on 14 February, security forces in the areas of Ahmadzai Wazir and Mehsud tribes of South Waziristan district witnessed attacks. Two soldiers were martyred and five others injured when an improvised explosive device hit their vehicle and exploded near Wana, following which the district administration imposed a curfew in Wana and its adjacent areas. The curfew was subsequently lifted on 19 February. (Dilawar Wazir, “Five soldiers martyred in South Waziristan attack,” Dawn, 20 February 2020)

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Fahd Hussain makes an argument that the Senate elections have generated their own sense of chaos. Khalid Bhatti, makes a larger argument that whether it is at the union council level or within national and provincial constituencies, is plagued by money, influence and power. In his editorial in the Friday Times, Najam Sethi tries to answer the question why is there such an outcry today by the government and its allies against the buying and selling of Senate votes when yesterday exactly the opposite sentiment was lauded by them?
 
An editorial in Dawn makes an argument that the brief window for a negotiated settlement in Afghanistan is closing fast.

 

"The family members of ‘missing’ persons from Balochistan are staging a sit-in in the capital to protest the enforced disappearances of their loved ones — a sight that has tragically become all too familiar in the country...It is the responsibility of the government to protect the constitutionally guaranteed rights of these citizens and give them answers about their missing family members."
-An editorial in Dawn on 'Missing Relatives'

 


ECP rejects 25 nomination papers after scrutiny


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 19 February 2021
On the Senate elections again
The debate on Senate elections is yet to settle. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court observed that the two main opposition parties - Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) are not addressing one of the primary issues that they agreed when they signed the Charter of Democracy. According to him, both the parties have agreed to end corrupt practice in Senate election, but are now deviating from the same. He was discussing the question in a five-member bench, that is looking into the Presidential reference that whether the Senate election be held through “secret ballot” or “open ballot.”
 
The issue has moved from the question of transparency, to a larger question of curbing corrupt practices while conducting elections. Transparency is only a part of the larger issues that need to be addressed if “corrupt practices” need to be focussed. This would need a strong Election Commission at the national and provincial levels; elections cannot be strengthened without building strong institutions.
 
A strong Election Commission would also need strong individuals at the helm, capacity from top to bottom, and autonomy. And more importantly, non-interference from political leadership, and also the Deep State. The questions of autonomy, capacity, and non-interference are big challenges not only to the Election Commission, but to most of the institutions – including those that have judicial functions.
 
And the above needs a political consensus inside the Parliament. The Supreme Court is discussing the issue, because this Parliament lacks that consensus.
 
In Focus
ECP rejects 25 nomination papers after scrutiny
Differences on open ballot system continue

On 18 February, the Election Commission of Pakistan completed the scrutiny of 170 papers filed from across Pakistan for the upcoming Senate elections. Of the 170, the ECP rejected 25,  three others withdrew their candidacy, and one PML-N member’s candidacy became “infructuous” after his death. Therefore, the ECP has 141 nominations with it now. 

PDM has mixed bag of acceptance and rejections 
The ECP accepted the papers of PPP’s Yousuf Gilani, much to the delight of the PDM which is fielding joint candidates for the elections. However, the ECP rejected the nomination papers of sitting Senator Pervaiz Rashid, citing the default in dues of the  Punjab House and Parliament Lodges. The PTI counsel accused Pervaiz of not paying dues worth  Rs 9,500,000 of the Punjab House. 

Pervaiz raises questions on rejection of papers
Pervaiz, who is also the former Information Minister, said the rejection of his papers was an attempt by the government to prevent him from contesting the elections. He claimed to have visited offices but the officers did not accept the payment. He speculated that the officers had perhaps been directed by Prime Minister Imran Khan to do so. However, he emphasised that he had the right to appeal, and said "You can close the doors of the Parliament on me but you cannot silence my voice.” (Amir Wasim, “ECP completes scrutiny of Senate nominations,” Dawn, 19 February 2021) (Numan Wahab, “Nomination papers for Senate: Gilani, Vawda’s papers accepted, Pervaiz Rashid’s rejected,” The News International, 19 February 2021)

Sindh, SC differ on open ballots
On the same day, the Sindh government pushed for conducting the Senate elections through the secret ballot system. The Advocate General Sindh and Advocate General Punjab argued for maintaining secrecy; the latter also highlighted the need for proportional representation. However, a five-member bench headed by the Chief Justice of Pakistan observed that the PPP and the PML-N “ had agreed in the Charter of Democracy (CoD) that the Senate elections should be held through the open ballot but it was not implemented in letter and spirit.” (“Open or secret ballot: PPP, PML-N backed out of pact, says CJP,” The News International, 19 February 2021)

 

Pakistan calls for reducing violence in Afghanistan
FO reiterates necessity of Afghan-led peace process

 Image Source: Dawn

On 18 February, the Foreign Office spokesperson said that Pakistan encouraged all sides in the Afghanistan conflict to take measures “for reduction in violence leading to ceasefire, which is linked to progress in the Intra-Afghan Negotiations.” The statement came in the light of the meeting between the NATO defence ministers. Further, the statement also reflected the meeting between Imran Khan and the head of Afghan Massoud Foundation, Ahmad Wali Massoud. 

There is no military solution to the Afghan conflict, reiterates FO
The FO spokesperson recalled that Pakistan never believed in a military solution to the Afghan conflict. He outlined the importance of an “Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process for an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement.” 

He also said the international community has appreciated Pakistan for its engagement with all the sides and international stakeholders to see to a peace process in Afghanistan. (Kamran Yousuf, “Pakistan seeks end to Afghan violence as NATO intends to stay on,” The Express Tribune, 19 February 2021)

 

Chinese ambassador meets with the COAS
Successful completion of CPEC will bring more prosperity says COAS

Image Source: The News International

On 18 February, Nong Rong, the Chinese envoy met with COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, at the GHQ. The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional security issues. Further, the COAS thanked the ambassador for China’s assistance in the provision of the COVID-19 vaccine to Pakistan and appreciated their support at multiple international forums as well as defence and security domains. The ambassador also acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan's contributions to regional peace and stability. (“Chinese envoy meets COAS,” The News International, 19 February 2021)

Stressed on the completion of CPEC 
Gen Bajwa said that the successful completion of CPEC would bring more benefits and prosperity to the people of both countries. (“Successful completion of CPEC will bring more prosperity, says COAS,” The Nation 19 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Ex-TTP member threatens second attempt on Malala’s life 
On 17 February, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militant Ehsanullah Ehsan allegedly threatened a second attempt on Malala Yousafzai’s life, tweeting that next time, “there would be no mistake.” Following the threat, Malala in a tweet asked both the military and PM Imran Khan to explain how her alleged shooter had escaped from government custody. (“Ex-Taliban spokesman threatens second attempt on Malala’s life,” Dawn, 19 February 2021)

Five members of the Frontier Corps killed in Balochistan 
On 18 February, five members of the Frontier Corps were killed and two others injured in two attacks in different areas of Balochistan. One incident took place in the western bypass area in Quetta where an FC soldier was killed when a remote-controlled bomb fixed to a motorcycle parked at the roadside exploded. In the second incident, four soldiers of Frontier Corps were killed in an attack by armed men on their check-post in the Kahan area of Kohlu district. (Saleem Shahid, “Five FC soldiers martyred in two attacks in Balochistan,” Dawn, 19 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan will continue to support intra-Afghan talks says, PM Khan
On 18 February, PM Imran Khan met with Ahmad Wali Massoud, the head of Massoud Foundation, Afghanistan. At the meeting, he said that Islamabad and Kabul were bound by a fraternal relationship, rooted deep in shared history and commonalities of faith, culture and traditions. He added, “Pakistan’s assistance for Afghanistan’s development efforts and human resource capacity-building will continue apace.” Following the visit, the PMO issued a statement saying that this visit is in continuation of Pakistan’s policy to reach out to Afghan leaders to further strengthen bilateral ties and enhance mutual convergence on the Afghan peace process. (“Pakistan will continue to support intra-Afghan talks,” The News International, 19 February 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Opinion highlights role of West in fuelling the power struggle in the Middle East
An opinion in The Daily Times says that the West used the Arab Spring to weaken the “strategically and politically stable autocracies” and pave the way for Israel to emerge as the superpower of the region. The author says the West weakened the Arab countries like Libya, Syria, Sudan making Israel so powerful that the Gulf countries had no choice but to establish a rapprochement with Israel to counter the Iranian influence. However, today, the world is witnessing an alarming power struggle between Iran and Israel. The author warns the Gulf countries cannot sustain a long-drawn war between the two powers. The only option left then, he says, is a “short, swift and effective” strike on Iran with Israel’s help. Therefore, he concludes, if the US steps in it could help restrain “Israel and its Gulf allies from any military confrontation with Iran by moderating their fears about Iran going nuclear and their intense opposition to the revival of JCPOA.” (M Alam Bohri, “Is the Middle East bracing for further turmoil?,” The Daily Times, 19 February 2021)

ON INDIA
FO rejects India’s concerns about Sikh Yatris 
On 18 February, the Foreign Office rejected the concerns raised by India over the Sikh Yatris visiting Pakistan for pilgrimage, stating that they were fully facilitated during the trips. The FO spokesman said, “Pakistan provides maximum facilitation to the Sikh Yatris from all over the world, including India, for visiting their religious sites in Pakistan.” Previously, India has disallowed around 600 Sikhs intending to visit Pakistan keeping in mind the “capacity of health infrastructure in Pakistan.” Further, the Ministry of Home Affairs expressing concerns about the “safety” of the group because of what it said “considerable threat.” (“Indian concerns about Sikh Yatris rejected,” Dawn, 19 February 2021)

 
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An editorial in the Nation talks about the forthcoming visit by Imran Khan to Sri Lanka and expects it to be a charm offensive, and refers to the India factor as well. Zafar Aziz Choudhry writes on the challenges facing young lawyers, with the recent violence in the background.
 
An editorial in the News argues that Pakistan needs to make its case convincing and plausible at the FATF forum. Senator Rehman Malik writes on the FATF discrimination and India’s terrorist financing, and says India has established 87 training camps; 66 training camps on Afghan soil while 21 of these exist in India. India is violating international law by financing and strengthening Daesh, TTP, and other terrorist organisations.

 

"Pakistan can only move towards development and advancement when its functionaries are efficient in their dealings, skilled in their fields, honest in their character, sincere in their opinions, serious in their job performance and above all patriotic in their worldview."
-An opinion in Dawn on 'State functionaries'

 


SC pushes for proportional representation in Senate


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 18 February 2021
The success of Pakistan’s Roshan Digital Account initiative
Today, in a meeting held in Islamabad, Imran Khan was quoted to have stated the following on the potential of overseas Pakistani in terms of contributing to Pakistan’s economy. According to the Express Tribune, Imran claimed: “Overseas Pakistanis are the biggest asset and there is an enormous potential to tap in this regard…I had been saying for the past 20 years to tap this enormous potential…and there is still a lot of room for encouraging those abroad to avail the service.” Earlier this week, he also tweeted: “I want to thank our Overseas Pakistanis for responding so strongly to SBP’s #RoshanDigitalAccounts. 87,833 accounts opened from 97 countries around the world. $500 million sent to Pakistan in just 5 months. Momentum continues to rise with $243 million coming in last 6 weeks alone.”
 
Clearly, there is a link between the overseas Pakistanis, Roshan Digital Accounts and the success in increased remittances to Pakistan during the last six months. The State Bank of Pakistan, early this week released a data on the remittances from overseas workers. According to the data, for the last eight consecutive months, remittances to Pakistan have been over two billion US dollars. When compared to the previous year data for the same period, there is a 24 percent increase.
 
But the bigger link to the above three is the government’s initiative and the resolve. It followed up with the banks, with State Bank of Pakistan being the primary engine; other leading local banks within Pakistan and international banks based in the country were roped in. Pakistan’s embassies around the world spread the information encouraging the overseas Pakistanis to make use of this. One could see the result in six months; USD 500 million sent to Pakistan in six months.

 

In Focus
SC pushes for proportional representation in Senate
Editorial outlines complications and fallouts in upcoming elections

On 17 February, a five-member Supreme Court bench heard the presidential reference on the secret ballot for Senate elections and called proportional representation in the Senate.

The Chief Election Commissioner submitted a set of steps to prevent corrupt practices during the Senate elections. The Election Commission of Pakistan cited the Elections Act 2017 wherein the Act provides for holding elections by secret ballot and also highlighted Section 185 of the Act which includes punishment for breach of secrecy. 

The counsel for the ECP said ”secrecy in the elections meant complete secrecy, perpetual and not to be shared.”

SC calls for proportional representation
One of the judges, Justice Ijaz-ul-Ahsan, held that secrecy during the polls was not absolute and each political party’s seats in the Senate should be proportionate to their strength in the assemblies. Otherwise, the entire system could collapse.

He said, any party and its strength in the provincial assembly should be reflected in the Senate elections; “if the said reflection of proportional representation does not mirror in the Senate, the Election Commission would be responsible for that breach of strength.” 

Similarly Justice Gulzar Ahmed asked how the ECP plans to handle the situation if “any party emerges successful in Senate elections by securing more votes than its real strength of proportional representation in the provincial assembly.” (Sohail Khan, “Senate elections: SC deliberates proportional representation,” The News International, 18 February 2021) (Nasir Iqbal, “Party position in Senate should reflect strength in assemblies: SC,” Dawn, 18 February 2021)

Meanwhile…
An editorial in The News International outlines various complications in the upcoming Senate elections. First, the editorial highlights that the proportional representation that the PTI favours will restrict the vote to a particular list before polling. Next, the PTI seems to be worried about the nomination of Yousuf Gilani. Further, within the PTI, there is displeasure among the party members, especially in Sindh. Therefore, the editorial says the open ballot debate seems to have adopted a tangent of its own. It predicts that a lot might happen in the very near future. (“Senate and secrecy,” The News International, 18 February 2021)

 

Government agrees to withdraw corporate income tax exemptions
Masses in for belt tightening amid rising prices, says editorial

Image Source: The Nation

On 17 February, sources in The News International said the government is exploring options to get the approval for abolishing Corporate Income Tax exemption up to Rs 150 billion to Rs 200 billion. The options include a Presidential ordinance or presenting a bill in the Parliament before the 2021-22 budget session. According to the FBR, the easiest way is to withdraw the exemptions through a Finance Bill on the eve of the budget session. 

However, this step will make it harder for the IMF to convince the executive board on the revival of the Extended Fund Facility. (Mehtab Haider, “To address IMF concerns: Govt agrees to abolish Rs150 bn corporate income tax exemptions,” The News International, 18 February 2021)

Editorial foresees difficult times ahead for common man
An editorial in The Express Tribune says while the updates from the IMF are positive for the macroeconomic indicators, they do not help the common man. The editorial highlights the agreement to withdraw the tax exemptions for corporate entities will make life harder for the business community, at least in the short and medium terms. It therefore concludes that “The masses are in for further belt tightening at a time when the prices of the items of daily use have already rocketed into the sky,” and fuel and power tariffs have also increased. ("IMF is back," The Express Tribune, 18 February 2021)

 

 Sri Lanka cancels PM Khan’s planned parliament speech 
PM is scheduled to visit Colombo on a two-day trip next week

Image Source: Dawn

On 18 February, Dawn reported that PM Imran Khan’s planned address to the Sri Lankan parliament, during his upcoming visit has been cancelled. This comes after Foreign Secretary of Sri Lanka Jayanath Colombage stated that Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena had requested for cancellation on the pretext of Covid-19. PM Khan is scheduled to travel to Colombo on a two-day visit from 22 February.

Speculations over the cancellation
There have been broadly two speculations doing the rounds since the cancellation. First, the India factor. Some have speculated that there are elements within the Sri Lankan government, who did not want the speech to take place as they feared that doing so could further harm the already strained relations with India. Second, the concern over PM Khan speaking about the rights of Muslims in Sri Lanka, rising anti-Muslim sentiments, and biased government actions. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Imran’s planned speech in Lankan parliament cancelled,” Dawn, 18 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Cabinet approves 25 per cent rise for federal employees
On 17 February, the cabinet approved a 25 per cent increase in the federal secretariat employees’ salaries by giving a relief of Rs21 billion. Further, they urged the provinces to end wage disparity between their civil servants and those of the Centre. Further, the cabinet discussed the issue of missing persons and directed the authorities concerned to make legislation to resolve the matter. The cabinet also ordered the enforcement of laws to check sexual violence. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Cabinet okays 25pc raise for federal employees,” Dawn, 18 February 2021)

Zalikhel and Dotani tribes continue to trade fire in South Waziristan
On 17 February, Zalikhel and Dotani, two rival tribes continued to trade heavy fire over a land dispute as the Wana Bazaar of South Waziristan remained under curfew. Local administrations have constituted a jirga to initiate a ceasefire, however, the jirga members have stated that they were facing a daunting task trying to end the dispute. (“Rival tribes continue to trade fire in South Waziristan,” The News International, 18 February 2021)

ECONOMY
External debt servicing reaches $7.06 billion in six months
On 17 February, the State Bank of Pakistan reported that the country paid USD 3.55 billion in external debt servicing for the second quarter of the current fiscal (2QFY21) and USD 3.51 billion in the first quarter (1QFY21). Thus, the cumulative payment as debt servicing reached USD 7.06 billion, indicating that the total debt servicing could cross the $14bn figure at the end of FY21. (Shahid Iqbal, “External debt servicing costs $7bn in six months of fiscal year,” Dawn, 18 February 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
A new frontier for discrimination against Muslims has emerged, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn critical of the rise of Islamophobia in South Asia especially Sri Lanka says that a new frontier for discrimination against Muslims has emerged. Further, the opinion says that when PM Khan visits Sri Lanka, he must consider his responsibility as a Muslim leader and realize that by not raising issues with his counterpart, he would be seen as complicit in the indifference that often lets realpolitik trump standing up for what’s right. (Rimmel Mohydin, “Forced cremations,” Dawn, 18 February 2021)

Children of Yemen bear no responsibility for the anguish that has overtaken the country, says editorial
An editorial in The News International critical of the plight of children in war-torn Yemen says that it is imperative that the world act to ensure that children are not made to suffer the repercussion of adults and leader choose war. The editorial says that Saudi Arabia and Iran should take the lead in putting a stop to the war, adding that the best way to influence people within the country is by offering them support rather than by killing them. Further, it says that Pakistan too must persuade other countries to do the same to ensure that better sense prevails and countries will not allow the kind of agony seen in Yemen to continue any longer. (“Children of Yemen,” The News International, 18 February 2021)

 
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Khurram Husain, writes on Pakistan - IMF dialogue party is about to end, as the “goodies tray is set to be removed, and the resultant changes could well create debt service difficulties.” The Express Tribune, in its editorial comments on the same issue and argues that “the masses are in for further belt tightening” as a fallout of IMF-Pakistan understanding

 


IMF, Pakistan reach agreement of EFF after Islamabad increases power tariffs


Photo: The Nation



PR Editorial, 17 February 2021
The Court’s bold verdict on violence by the lawyers
When a group of lawyers ransacked the Islamabad High Court premises last week, it was almost like an action replay of what happened in 2017 in Multan. Then, a group of lawyers armed with sticks ransacked the Lahore High Court premises in Multan, for shifting the court to a new premise without enough space for their chambers. In Islamabad last week, the reason was similar – related to their chambers. However, this time they vandalised the IHC premises for the civilian administration demolishing the lawyers’ chambers that were illegally constructed in a football ground adjacent to the IHC.

Thankfully, the Islamabad High Court, headed by a bench came down heavily on what had happened last week. In a unanimous voice, the bench condemned the attack in clear terms and has asked the administration to remove the illegally built chambers. The bench also has instructed the Islamabad civilian authority to construct the ground and conduct a football match in March.

Now, the lawyers should stand down, and respect the verdict. While their anger was respected and even supported, when they stood up against Musharraf, people showered them with petals. Today, after a series of incidents of violence led by the lawyers, the public sentiment is building against them. This is not good. More than the lawyers, the bar associations should take a stand against violence, and stop pressurising the bench. It should not try to prevent the law from taking its course, even if the lawyers are at the receiving end.

 

In Focus
IMF, Pakistan reach agreement of EFF after Islamabad increases power tariffs
Economy expected to expand at 1.5 per cent, says IMF
 
Image Source: The Nation

 

 

 

On 15 February, Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund reached a staff-level agreement for disbursement of $500 million. After the IMF approves this tranche in March, the total amount of disbursements to Pakistan will stand at USD 3.362 billion. This is higher than the planned USD 3.006 billion. 

The above decision came after the IMF concluded the second to fifth review of the  Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the two sides decided on revenue measures to revive the USD six billion fund programme which had been suspended in February 2020. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Accord reached with IMF for release of $500m,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

Pakistan agrees to fulfill conditions 
As part of the agreement, Pakistan has agreed to increase the power tariff by Rs 3.90 and also do away with the corporate sector income tax exemptions. Pakistan’s reluctance to agree to the above two conditions had previously led to the suspension of the EFF. 

IMF projects growth rate of 1.5 per cent for Pakistan
After the review, the IMF projected a growth rate of 1.5 per cent in the current financial year. Ernesto Ramirez Rigo who led the review said, The policies and reforms undertaken and implemented by Pakistan prior to the pandemic had “started to reduce economic imbalances and set the conditions for improving economic performance.” Though this was disrupted by COVID-19, the impact was reduced due to the authorities’ response, including temporary fiscal packages. He said Pakistan was moving steadily in the right direction through reforms : “strengthening regulatory agencies’ legal frameworks (NEPRA and OGRA Acts), consolidating SBP’s autonomy (SBP Act), and improving state-owned enterprises (SOE) management (SOE Law.” (Mehtab Haider, “Conditions fulfilled, IMF package restored,” The News International, 17 February 2021) (Imran Ali Kundi, “Pakistan moving steadfastly on reforms: IMF,” The Nation, 17 February 2021)

 

Islamabad High Court says lawyers’ chamber was illegal
Verdict will boost establish rule of law, says opinion

Image Source: Dawn

On 15 February, an Islamabad High Court bench headed by Justice Athar Minallah ordered the demolition of illegal structures including the lawyers chambers in the F-8 area. The Court held, “The construction of chambers by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association on the football ground is illegal." Further, the bench directed the Capital Development Authority to demolish the chambers if the lawyers refused to do so. (“IHC orders removal of ‘illegal’ lawyers’ chambers, structures from sports ground,” The Express Tribune, 16 February 2021)

IHC’s will go a long way to establish rule of law, says opinion 
An opinion is Dawn, critical of the lawyers' violence on 8 February, appreciates the verdict saying the incident did not deter the court from delivering the above judgement. However, the author highlights that till date lawyers have escaped from being brought to justice because of pressure from powerful bar associations. He recalls other incidents of violence by lawyers like the attack on the judge in Lahore HC, the ransacking at the Lahore hospital, and says “Breaking the law seems to have become a habit with lawyers'' and legal fraternity often condones such activities. Therefore, the real test is  the punishment to those involved in the latest incident. Nevertheless, the IHC’s order will “go a long way in boosting efforts to establish the rule of law.” (Zahid Hussain, “The lawless brigade,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

 

Pakistan concludes Aman maritime exercise
Aman-2021 will make region more peaceful, says President

Image Source: Dawn

On 16 February, the multinational maritime exercise Aman-2021 concluded with an international fleet review. China, Russia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, the UK and the US participated with Pakistan in the international fleet review. Other demonstrations during the day included refuelling at sea, anti-piracy mock operations, anti-submarine warfare and the like

President Alvi reaffirms commitment to regional peace
During the event, President Arif Alvi reiterated Pakistan’s resolve towards regional peace and stability. He said “Aman ‘21 will pave the way to make the region more peaceful and secure with combined efforts by all stakeholders.” Similarly, the Chief of Naval Staff said Pakistan will continue to actively ensure regional maritime security by collaborating with partner navies. (Shazia Hasan, “Pakistan Navy’s Aman exercise concludes,” Dawn, 17 February 2021) (Amjad Bashir Siddiqi, “AMAN-21 to pave way for making region peaceful, secure, says Alvi,” The News International, 17 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PM finalizes party’s candidates for the upcoming Senate polls
On 16 February, PM Imran Khan finalised the list of his party’s candidates for the upcoming Senate polls. According to the final list, 21 PTI candidates would contest the Senate elections, of which 10 candidates have been finalised from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Further, if the PTI wins all 21 seats in the forthcoming elections, the arty’s strength in the Senate will increase to 28. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM finalises PTI’s list of candidates for Senate elections,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

SC dismisses impression that Justice Isa not given court sitting this week
On 16 February, the Supreme Court dismissed the impression that Justice Qazi Faez Isa was not given court sitting for this week, explaining that he opted to do chamber work on his own. Previously, on 12 February, Justice Isa while informing Justice Shah's unavailability stated that he would be doing chamber work in the week commencing from 15 February. (“SC dispels impression Isa not given court this week,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

Three suspected terrorists killed in North Waziristan 
On 16 February, three suspected terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation near Mirali in North Waziristan tribal district. Officials stated that the exchange of fire took place while security forces conducted a search operation after receiving information about the presence of a group of terrorists. (“Three ‘terrorists’ killed in North Waziristan operation,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

PDM candidate wins Pashin by-polls
On 16 February, JUI-F candidate Syed Azizullah Agha won the by-election of Balochistan Assembly’s vacant seat of PB-20 (Pishin-III) against his rival Asmatullah Tareen of ruling the BAP. According to the official results, Agha won 16,086 votes while Tareen got only 2,963 votes. Further, Agha was supported by all parties of the PDM alliance. (Saleem Shahid, “Joint PDM candidate wins Pishin by-poll with big margin,” Dawn, 17 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Parliamentary Committee questions regional head of Twitter on Kashmir issue
On 16 February, the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir questioned the regional head of Twitter, for silencing the voices of thousands of Kashmiri and Pakistani activists, who were highlighting the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Further, the committee questioned Twitter’s policy on human rights and freedom of speech and whether Twitter regulations did not conform to the UN Charter on freedom of speech and freedom of expression. In response, the regional head stated that Twitter has a specific policy and discourages hate speech and upholds freedom of expression, adding that it would voices of minorities would never be silenced. (Asim Yasin, “Regional head of twitter grilled on Kashmir issue,” The News International, 17 February 2021)

“More permanent members will compound Council’s inequality and dysfunctionality,” says Ambassador Akram
On 16 February, Ambassador Munir Akram stated, “More permanent members will compound the Council’s inequality and dysfunctionality,” arguing “Permanent membership contradicts the fundamental precepts of sovereign equality, democracy, representativeness and accountability.” Rather, he advocated for advocating for expanding in the non-permanent category. Further, he stated, “If progress is to be made in the Security Council reform process, it is only by searching for areas of the agreement through painstaking discussions in the IGN and through sober consultations, mutual accommodation and innovative compromise,” adding, “It cannot be railroaded by bullying and coercion.” (“More permanent members will not make UNSC democratic, accountable: Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
A conducive atmosphere is imperative to settle terms and conditions for a political setup, says opinion
An opinion in The Express Tribune, critical of the situation in Afghanistan, says that both the Taliban and the Afghan Government must realise that a conducive atmosphere free from violence is imperative for setting up the terms and conditions for the future political system of Afghanistan. Further, the opinion says that the Taliban, especially need to prove that they are no longer associated with violence, adding that a middle ground needs to be found. (Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “Violence and peace in Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2021)

 
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Mosharraf Zaidi writes on seven drivers of US-Pakistan relations, looking at issues relating to the economy, civil society, Afghanistan, China, India and climate change.
 
Lt Gen Talat Masood reviews the role of the CPEC, with geoeconomics becoming the central driver and gives a series of recommendations on what Pakistan should do to the domestic economy.
 
Syed Akhtar Ali Shah writes that given the circumstances, “it is for the Taliban to adjust with the dictates of time” which seems to be a different perspective than the existing one inside Pakistan.

 

 


Remittances cross USD two billion for seventh consecutive month


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 16 February 2021
The non-stop rise in remittances
Yesterday (Monday) the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), release a new data on remittances. For eight months in a row, the remittances to Pakistan have been constantly over two billion US dollars. According to the latest statement, the remittances during the last six months of 2020 was around USD 16.5 billion. This was 24 percent increase when compared to the same period in 2019. Most of it has from the Gulf, with Saudi Arabia ($4.5 billion) and the United Arab Emirates ($3.4 billion), accounting to the largest. When compared to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, remittances from the UK ($2.2 billion) and the US ($1.4 billion) were only half of the former.

Now, what accounts for the above rise? According to the SBP report, the rise in remittances can be attributed to the “continuous efforts by Government and SBP to attract inflows
through official channel, limited cross border travel amid second wave of COVID-19 and
flexible exchange rate regime.” There have been a few initiatives, for example the Roshan Digital Accounts, an SBP initiative along with commercial banks with innovative banking solutions for non-resident Pakistanis to make payments and invest in Pakistan. It could also be due to Pakistanis who were either returning to the country or lost the job because of the COVID situation are transferring the savings from the Gulf to Pakistan. 

Will the rise in remittances continue? So far it has sustained. Its continuance would depend on how attractive Pakistan makes it to its work force, and how engaged the work force is, especially in the Gulf.

 

In Focus
Remittances cross USD two billion for seventh consecutive month
SBP attributes steady growth to increased use of official transactions

On 15 February, the State Bank of Pakistan’s latest data revealed that remittances from July-January during the current financial year, FY21, amounted to  USD 16.476 billion compared to USD 13.279 billion in the previous year; the figures reflect a 24 per cent increase in remittances. 

Further, remittances crossed the USD 2 billion mark in January as remittances stood at USD 2.3 billion, a slight dip from USD 2.4 billion in December. However, compared to January of FY20, there was a 19 per cent increase. 

Reasons behind increase in remittances
The SBP says the consistent increase in remittances could be a result of the gradual switch to official banking channels - which the government and central bank have been pushing for -  limited traveling across borders due to the pandemic and flexible exchange rate regime. Dawn quotes market experts who believe the growth in remittances could also result from the “open policy of the government for free movement of dollars, as inflow and outflow have no restrictions.” 

Fear of Pakistanis losing jobs in Gulf countries proved wrong
Saudi Arabia was the highest contributor to the remittances at USD 4.508 billion, followed by the UAE at USD 3.448 billion. According to Dawn, “The fear that Pakistanis would lose jobs in Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries depending largely on oil income has so far proved wrong.” (Shahid Iqbal, “Over $2bn remittances for straight seventh month,” Dawn, 16 February 2021)

 

On Senate elections: 170 candidates file papers for 48 seats
Imran pacifies party members amid controversy

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 16 February, The News International reported that 170 candidates had filed their papers for 48 Senate seats. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded the maximum number of nominations filed with 51 nominations, followed by Balochistan (41), Sindh (39), and Punjab (29), and Islamabad had 10 nominations. (“170 aspirants vie for 48 Senate seats,” The News International, 16 February 2021)

Will ensure no ‘parachuter’ is elected, says Imran
On the same day, Imran Khan chaired an emergency meeting of the PTI parliamentary board. Since PTI members expressed displeasure at the issuance of party tickets to select people in KP and Sindh, Imran said that he would ensure no ‘parachuter’ gets elected as senator. Previously, PTI had to withdraw its nomination of a business tycoon in Balochistan following similar backlash.  Therefore, the final decision regarding the nominations will be out by today. (“Senate election: 'No parachuter to make it to Senate',” The News International, 16 February 2021)

SC reiterates on conducting Senate elections in a lawful manner, summons CEC
On the same day, the SC was hearing the Presidential reference on the Senate elections. The Court directed the Election Commission of Pakistan to probe into the recent video wherein PTI members were recorded allegedly receiving bribes prior to the Senate elections in 2018. Observing that the ECP has not enacted rules to prevent corrupt practices in the Senate elections, the SC has summoned the Chief Election Commissioner today. The Court reiterated that it is the mandate of the ECP to ensure elections are conducted lawfully. (Sohail Khan, “Senate elections: SC seeks polling scheme,” The News International, 16 February 2021) (Nasir Iqbal, "SC summons CEC on open ballot today," Dawn, 16 February 2021)

PDM does not give ticket to Jamaat-i-Islami, will negotiate soon
On the same day, the PDM decided to leave out Jamaat-i-Islami from Senate election nominations in KP. Instead, the PPP, PML-N, JUI-F and ANP, would get one ticket each in the KP Assembly, said the JUI-F provincial chief. Meanwhile, the Jamaat-i-Islami is yet to decide whether it would ally with the PTI or join the opposition. According to sources in Dawn, the PDM will constitute a committee to negotiate with the party. (“PDM parties reach agreement on Senate polls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” Dawn, 16 February 2021)

Meanwhile…
An editorial in The News International highlights that the PTI appears to be in “dire need of getting some of its heavyweights in the Senate.” The editorial says the PM seems to be favouring technocrats; on the other hand, nominations of the PPP and PML-N reflect a more political approach. It highlights that the Senate needs “candidates who are not only articulate but also able to command the respect of the house and the public alike.” Therefore, it calls on political parties to avoid nominating controversial candidates. (“Senate nominees,” The News International, 16 February 2021)

 

Dawn explains deterioration of Pakistan Railways 
CEO attributes losses to underinvestment, corruption, bureaucracy

Image Source: Dawn

An article in Dawn cites the Railway Minister’s recent revelation that the railway sector incurred  losses worth Rs1.2 trillion in the last 50 years of which 90 per cent occurred in the last two decades. One reason behind this loss is the PTI administration’s decision to “put all its eggs in the Chinese basket,” with a hope that a USD 6.8 billion worth upgrade of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) connecting Peshawar with Karachi would facilitate revival. 

Dawn quotes Nisar Memon, the Railways CEO, who said “decades of underinvestment in infrastructure, corruption, mismanagement, political interference, over-employment and loss of freight business”  contribute to the losses in the sector. Apart from the government's lack of initiative towards the railways, the bureaucracy is a hurdle in the sector. (Nasir Jamal, "SITUATIONER: Delay in Chinese financing leaves Railways in limbo," Dawn, 16 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Govt opens vaccine registration for people over 65 years 
On 15 February, the government opened registration for people aged 65 years, beginning the second phase of the country’s vaccination drive. Previously, on 2 February, PM Imran Khan inaugurated the vaccination campaign for healthcare workers after receiving 500,000 doses of Sinopharm’s vaccine for China. So far, 37,289 healthcare workers have been inoculated against Covid-19. (Ikram Junaidi, “Vaccine registration for people over 65 years opens,” Dawn, 16 February 2021) 

MoHR issues annual performance report
On 15 February, the Ministry of Human Rights launched its annual performance report for 2020. During the launch, MoHR Minister Shireen Mazari highlighted the achievements of the ministry including Zainab Alert Bill and also underlined initiatives in terms of overcoming gaps in legislation to ensure that the rights of citizens, particularly the vulnerable, are protected. Further, the report highlighted significant initiatives taken to protect and promote the rights of women, children, people with disabilities, transgender women, and other vulnerable population groups. (“Human rights ministry issues annual report,” The Express Tribune, 16 February 2021)

IHC Chief Justice calls for ‘exemplary punishment’ for lawyers involved in the protests
On 15 February, the IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah stated that those lawyers involved in the attack to be given ‘exemplary punishment.’ He said, “The bar should identify those who were involved in the attack so that no one else is harassed,” adding, “It is a serious incident and those involved should be punished.” Further, while responding to IHC bar association’s demand to form a commission, Justice Minallah stated, “you all know well who did all this; the case doesn't need a commission.” (Saqib Bashir, “Justice Minallah seeks 'exemplary punishment' for lawyers involved in IHC rampage,” The Express Tribune, 16 February 2021)

PBC asks SC to rethink order on Justice Isa
On 15 February, vice chairman of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) urged the Supreme Court to review an order barring Justice Qazi Faez Isa from hearing cases concerning PM Imran Khan. In a statement, the vice-chairman argued that it in the larger interest of the smooth functioning of the SC and for safeguarding the independence of its judges for discharging their constitutional duties to dispense justice that the order should be reviewed. Previously, on 11 February, the SC issued an order requiring Justice Isa not to hear matters involving PM Khan. (Nasir Iqbal, “PBC vice chairman asks SC to rethink order on Justice Isa,” Dawn, 16 February 2021) 
 
PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
America's strategic interests in Afghanistan provides Pakistan an opportunity to be a constructive partner to the US, says opinion
An opinion in The News International critical of the way previous administration looked at Pakistan vis-à-vis Afghanistan says that unless the US government understands Pakistan's legitimate concerns, it will be difficult to have Pakistan play a constructive role in the resolution of the Afghan crisis. Conversely, the opinion says that Pakistan’s leadership needs to understand the legitimate concerns of the US. The opinion concludes by stating that America's strategic interests in Afghanistan, Iran and China provide Pakistan with a unique opportunity to be a constructive partner to the US, and in the process achieve its security and foreign policy goals. (S Qaisar Shareef, “US in Afghanistan,” The Express Tribune, 16 February 2021)

ON INDIA
Diplomat’s tour part of India’s “efforts to mislead the world community” on Kashmir says FO
On 15 February, the Foreign Office Spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri stated that India is trying to present a false and misleading narrative on the situation in Kashmir by taking foreign diplomats on a tour of the Valley. He stated that such arrangements were part of India’s “efforts to mislead the world community.” Further, he stated, “Such guided tours are a smokescreen aimed at diverting international attention from India’s egregious human rights violations in IIOJK (Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir), and creating a false impression of normalcy,” adding, “The visit would mean nothing if there is no access to all the areas and possibility to freely interact with Kashmiri people and the civil society in an atmosphere free of intimidation.” (“India trying to mislead world on occupied Kashmir situation: FO,” Dawn, 16 February 2021) 

 
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Arifa Noor writes on the politics, money power and controversies over the Senate nominations in Pakistan. An editorial in the News also reflects on the same issue.
 
Ghulam Nabi Fai underlines the role of Kashmiri diaspora, and writes “there is nothing to be gained by isolating groups with varying opinions.” Ahsan Jehangir defines the nature of State in Pakistan as kakistocracy, run by a government of the least competent and or amoral citizens of the state.

 


Navies conducts counter-terrorism demonstrations at Aman-2021


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 15 February 2021
Pakistan, Taliban and the US withdrawal from Afghanistan
News reports from Pakistan referring to officials have hinted that Islamabad would be in favour of the US-led forces in Afghanistan remaining for some more period. A section within Pakistan – both within and outside the Establishment consider the US-led international forces as a part of the problem in Afghanistan. Taliban would also want the international forces to leave as per its agreement with the US, signed last February.
 
The above section in Pakistan and Afghanistan would suggest that the sooner the external actors leave, the better the situation be. However, the ground situation in February 2021 would suggest otherwise. There has been a tremendous drawdown in the US forces since last February; Kabul has been overtly and covertly pressurised to yield to the US-Taliban deal – especially in terms of the release of prisoners. What have the Taliban yielded in the last one year? And is the situation better within Afghanistan?
 
From Pakistan’s perspective, is the status quo in terms of continuing violence inside Afghanistan, and the lack of success in intra-Afghan success acceptable? Pakistan would prefer some stability on both these counts before the international troops leave. Neither the Afghan National Army is too weak, that it would break up once the Americans leave, nor the Taliban is too powerful today to overrun cities and provinces as it did in the 1990s. The status quo means instability in Afghanistan and blowback for Pakistan.

 

 

In Focus
Navies conducts counter-terrorism demonstrations at Aman-2021
Pakistan stresses on need for blue economy

 

On 14 February, the Aman-2021 exercise conducted a rifle drill and a maritime counter-terrorism demonstration at PNS Qasim in Manora. The counter-terrorism demonstration aimed to showcase the “strength and specialised skills by special operations forces (SOFs) for countering acts of maritime terrorism.” It also focussed on “refining standard operating procedures, exchanging professional expertise” and improving interoperability among the SOFs. 

Participating heads meet Naval Chief
On the same day, commanders, chiefs, and admirals of participant  navies like Jordan, Djibouti, Sri Lanka, Russia, Saudi Arabia etc met with the Pakistan’s Chief of the Naval Staff. They discussed defence collaboration and maritime security dynamics and the Naval Chief outlined Pakistan’s initiatives towards building regional peace through the Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMPS). Apart from this, he said Pakistan conducts regular bilateral engagements. (Shazia Hasan, “Marines, special forces display skills at naval exercise,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

International conference focuses on blue economy 
Simultaneously, in the harbour phase of the Aman-2021, the 9th International Maritime Conference (IMC) was held on the theme “Development of Blue Economy under a Secure and Sustainable Environment: A Shared Future for Western Indian Ocean Region.” During the Conference, SAPM Moeed Yusuf conveyed that while Pakistan has the potential to expand into a billion dollar blue economy,  it is earning only USD 200 million dollars from the ocean resources; however, he said Pakistan was working towards building the blue economy. (“Blue economy discussed in int’l conference on Aman-2021 sidelines,” The Express Tribune, 14 February 2021)

 

No PTI member from Sindh files papers for Senate elections
Confusion arises after PML-N nominates seven candidates from Punjab

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 15 February (today), Dawn reported that the number of candidates who filed papers for the Senate elections had crossed 100. Today is also the last day for submitting nominations. However, according to the Election Commission of Pakistan, no one from the PTI had filed their papers from Sindh as of 14 February. 

Fissures within PTI emerge as Senate elections close in 
Though the PTI has announced 20 candidates from all provinces and the capital, the two candidates from Sindh - Federal Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda and Saifullah Abro - have not filed their papers. Meanwhile, the ECP has set 24 February as the date for hearing the cases against Vawda’s dual nationality; the ECP has already imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on him for “repeatedly asking for postponements.” 

Further, the central parliamentary board of the PTI withdrew its nomination of Abdul Qadir from Balochistan after facing opposition from the party’s provincial leaders and zonal heads. Similarly, party workers in Islamabad expressed resentment over the PTI’s decision to award the party ticket to the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue. (Amir Wasim, “No PTI member files paper for Senate polls from Sindh,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

PML-N nominates five more from Punjab; creates confusion
On the same day, the PML-N Information Secretary said the party had nominated seven candidates from Punjab. The announcement came after the party directed five more candidates to file their papers in the province. With that, the total number of party candidates from Punjab reached 10 thereby raising confusions on which three would be dropped. While the PML-N Secretary General said, the five candidates will be covering candidates, some of them expressed their displeasure at the same. (Amjad Mahmood, “With five new nominees, PML-N has 10 Punjab candidates for Senate polls,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

 

Pakistan is open to the idea of US forces staying until a political deal is reached
Insists that all sides remain committed to the negotiations

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 14 February, The Express Tribune quoting a senior official stated that Pakistan is not opposed to the idea of the US-led international forces extending their stay in Afghanistan until a political deal is reached through intra-Afghan talks. Further, the official stated, “While we want every side to stick to the deal, Pakistan desires orderly and responsible withdrawal of the US and other international forces,” adding, “The key here is not to repeat the mistakes of the past.”

Pakistan neither wants absolute victory of Taliban nor the insurgents to be marginalised
According to a recent paper prepared by Pakistan's diplomats, retired generals and other experts, the country neither wants absolute victory of the Taliban nor the insurgents to be marginalised. Further, the report says that while Pakistan is in contact with the Biden administration, it is also reaching out to regional players including China, Russia and Iran for a regional consensus on the developing situation. (Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan favours US stay in Afghanistan till political deal,” The Express Tribune, 15 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM cancels rallies in Sargodha and Khuzdar
On 14 February, PDM leaders decided to call off the rallies in Sargodha and Khuzdar which were to be held on 23 and 27 February respectively. The alliance decided to cancel the rallies in view to better prepare for the Senate elections and the long march. Further, Rehman also directed all the component parties of the alliance to gear up their preparations for the Senate elections and long march. (“Sargodha, Khuzdar rallies put off: All set for march, says Fazlur Rehman,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

PTI blames PPP for ‘intentionally neglecting’ civic bodies in Karachi
On 14 February, ministers from the PTI blamed the PPP government in Sindh for ‘intentionally neglecting’ municipal bodies in Karachi. Further, the ministers argued that the federal government was working beyond its constitutional responsibility as it understood the importance of Karachi in national development. Further, the Governor of Sindh also resonated the same stating that the Sindh government had taken over important functions of the local government. (Azfar-ul-Ashfaque, “PTI blames PPP for civic bodies’ woes in Karachi,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

PMO issues show-cause notices to under-performing Punjab bureaucrats 
On 14 February, the Prime Minister’s Office, (PMO) issued show-cause notices and warning letters to officers for their delayed response or inaction towards public complaints registered on the Pakistan Citizen’s Portal. According to the notice, 263 officers were issued warning letters, seven were given show-cause notices and 833 officers were directed to be careful in future, while explanations were sought from 111 officers. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Under-performing Punjab bureaucrats given notices,” Dawn, 15 February 2021)

 
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Waqar Ahmed builds a case for the FATF to take actions against India, and says that India is using hawala transactions to finance terror. Zahoor Marwat, compliments the above note, with his own analysis of India as a terror-sponsoring state and patron sponsor for the TTP. Syed Nazir Gilani reviews India’s J&K strategy and its ability to get the EU to visit, and recommends that Pakistan has no option but to rise as a North Star and act as a ‘guide star’ to the Kashmiris.
 
An editorial in the News reviews the Zia period policy that bans student unions in educational institutions. Kamran Yousaf reviews an essay on Pakistan-US relations, with a focus on the bilateral economy.

 

"Pakistan’s politics looks increasingly like the rerun of an old movie in which the actors remain the same and so does the plot which twists and turns to an unsurprising end… Today, with the government and opposition accusing each other of mala fide intent in the Senate election this does little to enhance the legitimacy of the upper house in popular perception. Political expediency extracts a price — public disillusionment and disenchantment not only with politicians but with the political system, leaving democracy the poorer for it."
-An opinion in Dawn by Maleeha Lodhi
on ‘Politics of expediency’

 


FO claims Pakistan made progress on remaining FATF items


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 12 February 2021
Progress in the FATF
In the weekly media briefing, the spokesperson of Pakistan’s Foreign Office has been quoted by Dawn to have commented: “FATF had assessed Pakistan to have completed 21 of the 27 Action Items under the current Action Plan. In the remaining six partially addressed items, significant progress has been made by Pakistan, which is duly acknowledged by the wider FATF membership.” 

Pakistan has been living on the FATF’s grey list edge for the last few seasons. In 2020, the PTI government passed a series of resolutions in the Parliament aiming to get out of the FATF grey list. For this government, getting out of the grey list has become one of the primary foreign policy goals. For the FATF, it is not only passing resolutions in the Parliament, but also following it up with actions, in terms of investigations leading to convictions in a court of law. This is a challenge that the PTI government has to address.

The next FATF review is due; the government would need the support of the Opposition as well to follow up, both within the Parliament and outside.

 

 

In Focus
FO claims Pakistan made progress on remaining FATF items
Plenary session to begin on 22 February
 
Image Source: The News International

 

 

On 12 February, the Foreign Office spokesperson said Pakistan has made “significant progress” on the remaining six items in the FATF Action Plan. He said the FATF membership also acknowledged the progress. He said, “As a responsible state, Pakistan remains firmly committed to peace in the region.” 

The upcoming FATF session
From 22 February to 25 February, the FATF will carry out a reassessment of Pakistan’s progress; after this, it will decide the status of Pakistan which is currently of the ‘grey list.’

Pakistan and the FATF: A recap 
Under the current Action Plan, Pakistan had previously fulfilled 21 of the 27 action items. In October 2020, the FATF retained Pakistan in the grey list under ‘jurisdiction under enhanced monitoring.’ During the assessment, the FATF maintained that Pakistan had not fully taken action against organisations linked to the terror groups listed by the UNSC, and against terror financing through smuggling. Further, Pakistan had also not taken measures regarding prosecution and conviction of banned individuals. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Substantive progress made on FATF items, says FO,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

 

Aman-2021 naval exercise begins in Karachi
Navy Chief emphasises on regional maritime cooperation

Image Source: Dawn

On 12 February, Pakistan flagged off the seventh edition of Aman, a multinational maritime exercise, at the PN Dockyard in Karachi. A message from the Chief of the Naval Staff was read out during the inaugural ceremony; he emphasised Aman-2021 would “provide a medium to develop doctrinal synergy to tackle maritime security challenges and enhance interoperability among navies...” 

Further, he mentioned that the Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSP) initiative by the Pakistan Navy meets international obligations while also “protecting national interests in the Indian Ocean Region.” Similarly, the Commander of Pakistan Fleet hoped that Aman-2021 would be a rewarding exercise for all and thanked the participating navies for their support.

Theme for Aman-2021
The exercise will have a harbour phase and a sea phase. In the harbour phase, from 13 February (today) to 15 February, seminars and discussions will be held on the theme -  ‘Development of Blue Economy Under a Secure and Sustainable Environment: A Shared Future for Western Indian Ocean Region.’(Shazia Hasan, “Maritime exercise Aman-2021 opens,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

 

Parties announce candidates for Senate polls
Yousuf Gilani nominated as PDM’s candidate

Image Source: Dawn

On 12 February, major parties announced their candidates for the Senate elections scheduled for 3 March. Party leaders took to Twitter to announce their candidates. Minister for Science and Technology announced that the PTI has chosen its candidates through a parliamentary board headed by PM Imran Khan. 

Bilawal announces PDM’s joint candidate
On the same day, Bilawal Bhutto announced that former PM  Yousuf Raza Gilani and Farhatullah Babar will be the PDM’s joint candidates. Apart from the above, the PPP and PML-N have also fielded their respective candidates for each province. 

The ECP schedule is too tight, says PPP
Meanwhile, the PPP maintained that the schedule issued by the ECP is too tight; the candidates will submit nominations by 13 February (today) and the preliminary list of candidates will be published on 14 February. The Sindh Information Minister said two days is a short time to complete the formalities as there is a weekend in between with government offices remaining closed. (Imran Ayub, “PPP announces Senate polls candidates,” Dawn, 13 February 2021) (“Polls race begins with naming of Senate hopefuls,” The Express Tribune, 13 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Earthquake of 6.4 magnitude hits various parts of Pakistan
On 12 February, the Met Office state that a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit parts of Pakistan, as jolts were felt in Islamabad, parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces as well as PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan. The office stated that the epicentre of the quake was in Tajikistan. Further, the Met Office issued a warning that aftershocks of minor intensity were expected. (“Strong earthquake hits parts of Pakistan,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

Drap approves another Chinese vaccine for emergency use in Pakistan
On 13 February, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) issued authorisation to the Chinese company Cansino Biologics Inc’s Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use. The supply of the doses will start in a few weeks making it the fourth vaccine to be allowed for emergency use in the country. Further, Cansino Bio is the only company to have conducted clinical trials in Pakistan and has shown a 74.48 per cent efficacy rate in preventing symptomatic cases and 100 per cent in preventing severe disease. (Ikram Junaidi, “Another Chinese vaccine approved for emergency use in Pakistan,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

IHC dismissed petition filed against Justice Azmat’s appointment 
On 13 February, the Islamabad High Court dismissed the petition filed against the appointment of retired Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed as head of the one-man commission constituted to probe the controversy related to the NAB and Broadsheet LLC. While dismissing the petition the court observed, “The conduct of the petitioner is not reasonable nor can he be extended the privilege to insist upon fixation of his case before particular benches, without a just and valid reason.” (Malik Asad, “Plea against Justice Azmat’s appointment dismissed,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

PROVINCE
Four soldiers killed in South Waziristan terrorist raid
On 12 February, four soldiers along with four terrorists were killed in South Waziristan in an exchange of fire. According to The News International, the ISPR said that terrorists attacked a security post in Makeen, South Waziristan. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office strongly condemned the use of Afghan soil to target Pakistan's military personnel and civilians, after a series of recent attacks. (“Four soldiers martyred in South Waziristan terrorist raid,” The News International, 13 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Taliban had no legal authority to decide cases in Pakistan says SC
On 12 February, the Supreme Court issued a verdict stating that the Taliban had no legal authority to decide cases and their decision did not apply to Pakistan. The statement was made during the hearing of a petition filed by Gul Nawaz and others against the 2019 Peshawar High Court order in a land dispute case. Further, the judgement said that the Taliban had no legal authority to decide cases since they had infiltrated into Pakistan and by mid-2005 illegally occupied and assumed control over a part of the territory of Pakistan, including parts of Waziristan. Further, the judgement stated that the physical possession of any part of the territory of Pakistan taken over by the Taliban breached the Constitution and any decision given by the Taliban would be unconstitutional, unlawful and of no legal effect. (Nasir Iqbal, “Taliban have no authority to decide cases in Pakistan: SC,” Dawn, 13 February 2021)

 
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Fahd Husain writes about the timing of releasing an old video of legislators taking bribe in KP to vote in 2018 Senate elections. Pervez Hoodbhoy questions the rationale behind making Arabic a compulsory subject for students between Grade one and five. He argues, “forcing students to learn Arabic won’t make them virtuous.”

An editorial in The News analyses delay in making the 2017 census results public and official, and underlines the need to have it to conduct the local elections.

 


Justice Isa should not hear cases involving PM, says the CJP


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 12 February 2021
The TLP’s anger against France
The Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) does it again. It brings the government to its knees once again, by calling off its protest. Initially, the TLP has scheduled to recommence its protests on 16 February against three specific demands relating to France. It includes that Pakistan expels the Ambassador of France, boycott all French products and will not appoint an ambassador to France.
 
It all started in November last year with Charlie Hebdo protests, killing of Samuel Paty, social resistance in France, “I’m Paty” gatherings and the statement by the French President Emmanuel Macron. The TLP staged a street protest in November 2020, occupied the main artery and threatened to blockade Islamabad.
 
The PTI government caved in then. It agreed to the above three demands in November 2020 and also agreed to present the same within three months in the Parliament for its approval. The TLP’s latest ultimatum is against the failure of the PTI to pass the same in the Parliament; hence decided to stage another protest on 16 February 2021.
 
The PTI government caved in now as well. The two sides (PTI and the TLP) has signed another agreement now; according to a news report in the Express Tribune, “Negotiations have been going on between the Government of Pakistan and TLP on this problem for a month during which the government has reaffirmed its resolve. Terms of the [previous] agreement will be presented in parliament by April 20, 2021, and decisions will be taken with the approval of the parliament.” From the government side, the agreement was signed by the Minister for Religious Affairs and Minister for Interior.
 
The rise of TLP has many reasons. One of them is the failure of the government to stand up and ensure the writ of the State. This will only strengthen the TLP enabling them to demand more.

 

In Focus
Justice Isa should not hear cases involving PM, says the CJP
SC hears development funds case
 
Image Source: Dawn

 

On 11 February, Chief Justice of Pakistan asked Justice Isa to not hear cases related to PM Imran Khan, in particular, the case relating to the PM’s release of Rs 500 million each to lawmakers for development purposes. 

The CJP observed that Justice Isa had, on a personal capacity, already filed a petition against Imran, regarding a document revealing an alleged transfer of funds to a PTI lawmaker. Therefore, to ensure an unbiased and impartial hearing, “it  would be in the interest of justice” that Justice Isa does not hear cases involving the PM, the CJP’s written order read. 

SC hears case regarding release of Rs 500 million to lawmakers
On the same day, the federal government denied before the Supreme Court any transfer of funds to legislators. On behalf of the Finance Secretary, the Attorney General submitted a report on the alleged release of Rs 500 million to lawmakers. The report said, “The Finance Division has not allocated or handed over money to any legislator or any other person, nor has it intended to do so.” 

Further, the Sindh government and Punjab government also clarified that they had not distributed any funds to the lawmakers. The SC disposed of the case as it observed that all its queries were answered. (Sohail Khan, “Justice Isa can’t hear cases about PM: SC,” The News International, 12 February 2021)

 

TLP extends deadline for government to expel French envoy
PM to present demands before Parliament in April

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 12 February,  the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) called off its protest demanding the expulsion of the French ambassador to Pakistan. Imran Khan said the TLP extended its deadline for fulfilment of its demands after the government engaged in talks with the party. The TLP had previously presented 16 February as its deadline to remove the French ambassador and boycott French goods. 

Previously…
On 11 February, Imran Khan said he would present the TLP’s demands for further discussion before the parliament before 20 April. This will be the new deadline for fulfilling the TLP’s demands. However, Imran reiterated that he was doing this not for the TLP, but because of the  country’s faith. He said, “We are not doing it for the TLP but because it is part of our faith. This (blasphemy) is a planned conspiracy, which keeps repeating itself in the West and disturbs peace.” 

The renewed agreement was signed by a TLP delegation and the Minister for Religious Affairs and Minister for Interior from the government side.

TLP demands guarantee
Though the TLP has agreed to extend its deadline, it has demanded additional guarantees. The party maintained the same ministers, who were unable to meet the party’s demands, have signed the renewed agreement. Therefore, “the TLP wanted the prime minister himself to be part of the agreement and commit himself to the cause.” (“TLP calls off protest over French envoy removal,” The Express Tribune, 12 December 2021) (Ahmad Fraz Khan, “TLP demands to be placed before parliament: PM,” Dawn, 12 December 2021)

 

Ensure the rule of law, Islamabad High Court CJ tells bar councils
Constitutional court could have been reduced to battleground, says Justice Minallah

Image Source: Dawn

On 11 February, the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court urged the Pakistan Bar Council and the Islamabad Bar Council to “discharge their responsibilities to ensure the rule of law.” Chief Justice Athar Minallah, who was trapped in his chambers for nearly three hours during the lawyers’ violence, wrote a letter to the chairman of the PBC and the IBC respectively. The letter read, “It was unthinkable that enrolled advocates dressed in uniform would storm the Islamabad High Court, violently vandalise its property and attempt to intimidate and threaten the Chief Justice and other Hon’ble Judges by keeping them detained for hours.” 

His letter outlined details of 8 February - nearly 150 lawyers, including some contesting in the IHC Bar Association elections, led by an IBC member marched towards the IHC. He said he prevented “an imminent operation” by LEAs against the lawyers; otherwise, “it could have reduced a constitutional court to a battleground and undermine the prestige and sanctity” of an institution where justice is dispensed to all and sundry.” (Malik Asad, “IHC chief justice asks PBC, IBC to ensure rule of law,” Dawn, 12 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Army tests another surface-to-surface cruise missile
On 11 February, the Pakistan Army test-fired a short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile capable of hitting land and sea targets with “high precision” up to 450 kilometres away. According to Dawn, the ISPR stated that the Babur cruise missile IA was launched from a “state of the art Multi Tube Missile Launch Vehicle.” This launch is Pakistan’s third missile test over the past three weeks. Previously, the army conducted a successful test of the surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-III, ‘training launch’ of nuclear-capable ballistic mis­sile Ghaznavi and the launch of an indigenously developed extended-range guided Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS). (Naveed Siddiqui, "Pakistan Army conducts successful test launch of surface-to-surface Babur cruise missile," Dawn, 12 February 2021)

ON THE SENATE ELECTIONS
Senate elections set for 3 March
On 11 February, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced polling for 48 seats of the Senate would take place on 3 March. Further, the ECP said that returning officers would start receiving nomination papers from aspiring candidates from 12 February and the candidates could submit the papers by 14 February. The ECP’s announcement comes amid the unresolved issue of open ballots for the polling. (Amir Wasim, “Senate poll to be held on March 3: ECP,” Dawn, 12 February 2020)

SC asks govt if it will be able to comply with legal obligation in the Senate reference
On 11 February, the Supreme Court asked if the government would be bound to comply with its opinion on the presidential reference on the Senate elections. The court made this inquiring while hearing the reference by which the government has sought the court’s opinion on whether open ballot for the elections in the Senate would help acknowledge respect for the choice and desire of the citizen voters. (“SC weighs legal obligation on govt in Senate reference,” The Express Tribune, 12 February 2020)

SC questions govt’s move for presidential reference
On 11 February, Justice Yahya Afridi questioned why the government had moved the presidential reference before the Supreme Court to seek its opinion on a matter which was already clear from its previous verdict. Justice Afridi while highlighting the previous verdicts said, “Are you setting a rule or a precedence that when there is a dispute between judgements of two different benches you would require a clarification through a reference.” However, Attorney General for Pakistan argued, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was a party in the case before the Supreme Court bench in 2018 but did not apprise it of the earlier three-judge SC bench’s order. (Nasir Iqbal, “Earlier SC verdict answered question asked under reference: judge,” Dawn, 12 February 2020)

SC asked to reject ordinance seeking Senate poll through open ballot
On 11 February, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) filed a petition in which it urged the Supreme Court to strike down the Elections (Amendment) Ordinance, 2021, which seeks to hold the Senate elections on March 3 through open ballot by amending the Elections Act, 2017. Further, the petition asked for a declaration from the SC that a contingent legislation that hinges upon the determination of its constitutionality was impermissible and unconstitutional. Further, the petition argued that the ordinance was ultra vires of the Constitution as the president exercised his power under Article 89 of the Constitution without the prerequisites being satisfied. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC urged to strike down ordinance seeking Senate poll through open ballot,” Dawn, 12 February 2020)

ON GOVT EMPLOYEES’ PROTEST
Federal government agrees to a 25 per cent rise in govt employees’ salaries
On 11 February, the government employees and a special committee constituted by Prime Minister Imran Khan reached an agreement to raise the salaries. According to the agreement, a 25 per cent increase in salaries of federal government employees from grades 1 to 19 was approved on an ad-hoc basis. Following the agreement, the government employees called off their protest. The government employees from grades 20 to 22 were assured of an increase in salaries in the next budget. Further, all those who have been arrested during the protesters would be released and cases registered against them would be taken back. (“25pc raise in govt employees’ salaries,” The News International, 12 February 2020)

Fact that the govt let the protests drag and reach the point of violence is concerning, says editorial
An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the situation over the protests stated that although it was expected that the government would agree to most of the protesters’ demands, the fact that the government let the protests drag and reach the point of violence is concerning. Another worrying factor was how the interior minister was trying to depict the protesters as being backed by the opposition. The editorial concludes by stating that although it was optimistic to know that government employees will be getting some economic relief, there are millions of private employees who are facing the same situation. (“Govt employees’ protest,” The Express Tribune, 12 February 2020)

 
Also read...                                                                                                              

Fahd Hussain writes in Dawn on the possibilities of the US-Taliban agreement breaking up and its fallouts on Pakistan. He writes about the ability of Pakistan to get the Taliban back to the table, and its effect on resetting US-Pakistan ties. Sakib Sehrani writes about the challenges facing Pakistan’s power sector and refers to the circular debt in the power sector, macro-economic governance, private sector investment etc.
 
Amir Hussain writes on Pakistan’s Climate Change challenges and the need for professional expertise and institutional strength to deal with emerging threats. Syed Mohamad Ali argues climate change could be one of the issues of US-Pakistan cooperation.

 

"Pakistan’s energy sector woes have cost dearly and have undermined economic stability… Given its linkages with the rest of the economy and large negative externalities, in conjunction with its magnitude and trend, fixing the energy sector can rightly be termed as one of Pakistan’s foremost macroeconomic challenges."
-An opinion in Dawn
on 'Power sector challenges'

 


Government approves 25 per cent increase in employees’ salary


Photo: Dawn



In Focus
Government approves 25 per cent increase in employees’ salary 
Opposition leaders criticise handling of protesting employees

Image Source: Dawn
 

On 11 February (today), the Defence Minister said the government had approved a 25 per cent increase in salaries of grade 1 to 19 of federal government employees. He said the approval was done on an ad hoc basis; "it would be added to the pay scales in the budget" in the upcoming session in June. (Munawer Azeem, "Govt approves 25pc increase in salaries of protesting employees," Dawn, 11 February 2021) On the same day, the Interior Minister called for the release of all government employees who were arrested during their protests on 10 February. The government delegation had engaged in talks with the employees' representatives after protests turned violent on 10 February. (“After police, protesters clash in Islamabad's Red Zone, govt ready to give salary increase,” The News International, 11 February 2021)

Islamabad comes to a standstill
On 10 February, Islamabad witnessed a long day of clashes between federal government employees, protesting for hike in salaries, and the police. The police fired tear gas and held a baton charge at protesting employees who were heading towards the Parliament house. Further, the police blocked the Srinagar highway, leading to a massive traffic jam. Prior to this, employees of the Federal Directorate of Education are also believed to have blocked the highway. Apart from violent clashes, government employees - including those working in the  Secretariat, Cabinet Division and Kohsar Complex - refused to attend work thereby leading to  the closure of government offices. (“Islamabad turns into ‘war zone’ as govt employees clash with police,” The Nation, 22 February 2021)

The demand for salary hike
The protesters are demanding a 40 per cent salary hike to keep in line with the current inflation in the country. Previously, the government had announced a 24 per cent increase in salaries for grades 1 to 16 employees. The Interior Minister said the employees are now demanding the increase in salaries to be extended till grade 22. This, he said, was “impossible for the government as the country was facing a financial crunch.” (Munawer Azeem, “Police, govt employees clash in Islamabad as pay raise protest turns unruly,” Dawn, 11 February 2021)

Opposition leaders react to violence
On the same day, Maryam Nawaz took to Twitter to say the protesting employees “are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights.” Similarly, Bilawal Bhutto said the “PTI regime had resorted to highhandedness against the employees instead of listening to their genuine grievances.” (“'For God's sake, stop this merciless torture': Maryam Nawaz backs govt employees protest,” The News International, 11 February 2021)

 

PTI to not invite applications for Senate elections
ECP to announce elections today

Image Source: Dawn

On 11 February, Dawn reported that the PTI was not inviting applications for the upcoming Senate elections. Instead, candidates will be chosen on the recommendations of a parliamentary board headed by PM Imran Khan. Members of the board will recommend names from their respective provinces. 

Decision triggers resentment within party
According to Dawn’s sources, PTI members in Punjab and Islamabad have expressed resentment over this step. The members believe, the PTI leadership will “award tickets” to some who are perceived to be “outsiders”. 

On 10 February,  PTI office-bearers and activists from Islamabad said they will not accept an “imported candidate” on the Senate seats reserved from the capital city. Additional regional secretary general of the PTI said party workers from Islamabad will not “tolerate any candidate from other provinces to get the party ticket from the capital.” (Amir Wasim, “PTI to finalise Senate candidates without inviting applications,” Dawn, 11 February 2021)

Meanwhile…
The Election Commission of Pakistan will announce the Senate elections schedule on 11 February (today). Sources in Dawn said 3 March will be the probable date. However, the ECP has not confirmed the electoral process amid the controversy on the voting procedure.  (Iftikhar A Khan, “ECP to give Senate polls schedule today amid voting controversy,” Dawn, 11 February 2021)

 

IHC summons 17 lawyers for involvement in violence 
Chief Justice calls on bar councils to hold lawyers accountable

Image Source: Dawn

On 10 February, the Islamabad High Court summoned 17 lawyers on charges of contempt of court. The lawyers have been accused of being a “part of a mob/crowd” of advocates which stormed the IHC chambers with intents to intimidate judges and bring disrespect and disrepute to the court. The lawyers are expected to submit an explanation within seven days and appear in person on 18 February. (Malik Asad, “IHC summons 17 lawyers in contempt of court case,” Dawn, 11 February 2021)

Violence by lawyers, a disgrace to legal fraternity, says IHC CJ
On the same day, IHC Chief Justice said the violence by lawyers on 8 February was a disgrace to the whole legal fraternity. He said, “a group of some 100 lawyers had earned a bad name for the legal fraternity while 95 percent professional lawyers had to face embarrassment due to a five percent’s wrongdoings.” Further, he said bar councils must hold the lawyers involved in the incident accountable for vandalising a sacred institution. (“IHC building attack: Five percent lawyers brought disgrace to whole fraternity: IHC CJ,” The News International, 11 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
SC ruled against death penalty for inmates with mental ailment 
On 10 February, the Supreme Court in a ruling announced, “We hold that if a condemned prisoner, due to mental illness, is found to be unable to comprehend the rationale and reason behind his/her punishment, then carrying out the death sentence will not meet the ends of justice.” However, the court explained that not every mental illness shall automatically qualify for an exemption from carrying out the death sentence, adding that exemption will be applicable only in a case where a medical board certifies after a thorough examination and evaluation of the prisoner. Further, the court ordered the replacement of terms like ‘unsoundness of mind’ and ‘lunatic’ with ‘mental illness’ or ‘mental disorder’ in PPC, CrPC and Prison Rules. (“No death penalty for inmates with mental ailment: SC,” Dawn, 11 February 2021) 

PROVINCE
Law and order situation has improved in Balochistan, says governor 
On 10 February, Balochistan Governor stated the law-and-order situation in the province is much better than in the past due to the sacrifices rendered by security agencies. While highlighting the difficulties in reaching out to the people, the governor said that the current government was making all efforts to provide basic amenities across the province. Further, he stated that CPEC is a game-changer for the entire region and investors could take financial benefit by investing in mineral and other sectors in Balochistan. (“Law & order situation has improved, says governor,” Dawn, 11 February 2021) 

ECONOMY
TERF records the highest increase of Rs 51 billion in one week
On 11 February, Dawn reported that the Temporary Economic Refinance Facility (TERF) has recorded the highest increase of Rs 51 billion during one week, which ended on 28 January. The total amount has reached over Rs 374 billion. The State Bank of Pakistan said the TERF, which was introduced to counter the negative impact of Covid-19 had shown significant growth over the last 10 months. (Shahid Iqbal, “Record Rs51bn financing in a week under Temporary Economic Refinance Facility,” Dawn, 11 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan hosts multinational military drill
Pakistan is set to host a week-long multination naval exercise starting from February 11-16 in the Arabian Sea. Naval forces from 45 countries, including the US, China, Russia and Turkey are participating in Aman-2021. The Pakistan Navy stated the exercise is aimed at “fostering international cooperation to fight piracy, terrorism, and other crimes,” which pose a threat to maritime security and stability. (“In diplomatic triumph, Pakistan hosts multinational military drill,” Dawn, 11 February 2021) 

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Canada promises to help GB tourism
On 10 February, Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan that the Government of Canada would continue to promote responsible tourism and mitigate climate change effects in Gilgit-Baltistan, which offers opportunities in winter tourism. The High Commissioner made this statement during a visit to the Glof-II office in Gilgit. (“Canada to help promote tourism in GB: envoy,” Dawn, 11 February 2021) 

 
Also read...                                                                               

I A Rehman, in Dawn, writes that in Pakistan, democracy has been smothered by a string of political quacks, arguing that democracy has failed to take root because society repudiates the concept of equality of citizens and unless this roadblock is dismantled the people’s dreams of a democratic order will remain unrealised.

Sana Farrukh, in The News International, says that the February 10, 2021 verdict, ‘A verdict for the vulnerable’ is an auspicious day not only for criminal justice and mental health professionals, but also for the citizens of Pakistan, who can anticipate a future where there is greater protection for those with psychosocial disability.

 

"Mental health in Pakistan is in dire straits. Around one-third of the country’s population suffers from some sort of psychosocial disability. And yet, it is widely misunderstood, stigmatised, and ignored. Nowhere is the plight of the mentally ill more starkly evident than in our jails...The judgement will help prisoners who deserve a chance at life."
-An  opinion in Dawn
on 'A New Chapter'

 

 


Legal fraternity extends support to lawyers; condemns CDA


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 10 February 2021
On the Senate elections and the rates for politicians, Imran has a point.
Today, Imran Khan in one of the media address raised a crucial issue about the role of money in purchasing the Senate elections. He asked: “Do we want to hold [Senate] elections according to this same system when we know there is a money market set with rates for politicians?” He had also accused the entire political opposition of knowing about the same but not making an effort to change it, despite being in power for the last 30 years “because they themselves make money from it.”

The circulation of an old video, showing someone as taking money before 2018 elections and placing them in a bag, should be more than a coincidence.

However, Imran Khan has a valid point. There are two issues here; first, political parties engaging in horse-trading, through which they bribe members of other parties to vote for the former. The other case is even worse; individuals with money power paying to the political parties to get them nominated and subsequently get themselves elected. The second happens not only for the Senate elections but also in other elections. Not only in Pakistan but also in the rest of South Asia, this has become a practice, in which individuals pay a huge amount to political parties to allow them to contest in elections. It is unfortunate, that political parties also indirectly encourage this trade, as they do not have to spend for elections in the constituency. The above practice has other domino effects that would reduce the entire electoral and political processes into a sham.

Imran Khan has a point. Not only for Pakistan but also for the rest of South Asia.

 

In Focus
Legal fraternity extends support to lawyers; condemns CDA
Islamabad Bar lawyers highlight increasing lawlessness among lawyers 

Image Source: Dawn

 

On 9 February, Punjab Bar Council (PbBC) and Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA) demanded the reconstruction of demolished lawyers’ chambers. The two bar bodies called for taking action against the Capital Development Authority (CDA) claiming its anti-encroachment drive to be illegal. Further, they also demanded the withdrawal of FIRs against the lawyers and pushed for the transfer of the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “Punjab bar, LHCBA back capital lawyers over issue of demolition,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

Few lawyers condemn violence 
More than 70 lawyers in the  Islamabad Bar released a statement condemning the violence by their colleagues and called for strict action against those involved in the act. They believed, “an attack on the judiciary is an attack on the very foundations of the legal profession.” They highlighted this incident as one among the growing trend of lawlessness in the fraternity. (“Lawyers demand action against colleagues who attacked IHC CJ,” The Daily Times, 10 February 2021)

Media condemns violence, calls it “Act of defiance and disrespect for law” 
An editorial in Dawn says, lawyers’ associations supporting their fraternity while condemning the CDA reflects a “moral crisis within the members of the bar.” The editorial recalls various instances wearing lawyers resorted to violence and says it is high time bar councils hold lawyers accountable and “discipline their lawbreaking colleagues instead of condoning their actions.” If not, these bodies will be equally responsible for the confrontational behaviour of the lawyers, and the consequences that could follow. (“Lawyers run amok,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

Similarly, an editorial in The News International says the latest act of violence by the lawyers is an “act of defiance and disrespect for law.” It suggests that the lawyers could have displayed their contention against the CDA’s move and presented their demands through peaceful protests as such instances “do little to build respect for the law in a country where it has already been badly undermined.” (“State of law,” The News International, 10 February 2021)

Another editorial in The Express Tribune says repeated acts of violence by the legal fraternity is a matter of shame to Pakistan. The editorial opines, the latest incident threatens everyone irrespective of class and profession. It highlights the erosion of Rousseau’s social contract and says the “deterioration should have been nipped in the bud.” (“Lawyers at it again,” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2021)

Opinion pushes for enforcing rules of conduct
An opinion in The Express Tribune outlines that the legal fraternity is expected to uphold dignity under its obligation to the Constitution and under the Legal Practitioners Act, 1973. The author says “rowdy attitude, assaults, vandalism and above all, violations of the rule of law and touts are a curse consuming the fabric of the legal profession.” It warns that nothing can sustain for long if it is built on flawed foundations and calls on the bars to enforce rules of conduct to  maintain the dignity of the profession. (Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “The legal profession, conduct and justice,” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2021)

 

Parliament alone can break silence of Constitution on open voting, says Fazlur
Urges SC to stay away from Senate elections controversy

Image Source: Dawn

On 9 February, PDM chief Fazlur Rehman asked the Supreme Court to not get involved in the controversy surrounding the upcoming Senate elections saying the open voting system would require a constitutional amendment. He said, “The judiciary can only interpret the constitution to clear ambiguity in any clause. But it is parliament alone that can break its silence of the constitution on some point.” He was speaking at a PDM rally in Hyderabad. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “PDM asks SC to stay away from open Senate vote row,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

Fazlur Rehman and Bilaway Bhutto reiterated their stand that PM Imran Khan was a “selected PM.” Bilawal referred to the Senate elections and said the PTI government is seeking help from the establishment for the same. Fazlur Rehman echoed this; he referred to the open voting controversy and said the government was bent on “rigging” once more. (“Naya Pakistan turned out to be expensive Pakistan: Bilawal,” The Nation, 10 February 2021) (Imtiaz Hussain, “March will be in March: Bilawal, Establishment must admit past mistakes: Fazl,” The News International, 10 February 2021)

Senate elections manifest all flaws in Pakistan’s democracy, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn says controversies over Senate elections have never hit such a low before. The author says the chaos in the National Assembly last week reflects the dysfunctionality of the legislature. He says the Senate elections, characterised by acts like horse trading, have always been a manifestation of all that is flawed in Pakistan’s democracy. Despite this, the political leadership has failed to initiate a process to ensure transparency.

Further, he questions the timing of the push for changing Senate election rules. He recalls 2018 Senate elections as the most tainted one and asks why the government is now bent on moving the amendment; after all, there was no move to build a parliamentary consensus on changing the Senate election rule. (Zahid Hussain, “A flawed system,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

 

National interest above everything else, says COAS
Expressed complete satisfaction over countering hostile intelligence agencies’

Image Source: Dawn

On 9 February, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa during the 239th Corps Commanders’ Conference stated “Dividends of improved security situation including return of international cricket in the country is a result of numerous sacrifices rendered and challenges overcome to eliminate extremism and terrorism from Pakistan. We will stay the course InshaAllah.” Further, he maintained that the enormity of the security challenges warrants a holistic national response, keeping national interest above everything else. (“Army top brass stresses need to keep national interests above everything,” The Daily Times, 10 February 2021)

239th Corps Commanders’ Conference: A review of the regional and domestic security environment
During the 239th Corps Commanders’ Conference, the participants undertook a comprehensive review of regional and domestic security environment with special focus on the situation along borders, internal security and other professional matters of the army. They also stressed on the need to ensure continuous operational preparedness to prevent any possible misadventure from the adversary.
Further, the forum expressed complete satisfaction over countering hostile intelligence agencies’ design to disrupt peace and progress particularly in Balochistan and Gilgit Baltistan and deliberated upon the improved security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa agreeing on the requirement for early implementation of reforms in newly merged tribal districts. On the Afghan negotiation, the forum expressed hope for peaceful and stable Afghanistan for regional peace and stability. Further, the forum reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support to the Kashmiri people. (“National interest above everything else,” The Nation, 10 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Three bullet-riddled bodies found in Shanzani area
On 9 February, bullet-riddled bodies of three people were found in Shanzani area along the Coastal Highway. According to police, deceased were being acquitted of murder charges by a sessions court in Gwadar, but went missing. Further, the police said the murder of the three was the result of old enmity. (Behram Baloch, “Bullet-riddled bodies of three men found,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

SC sought complete details of the privatization plan of PSM
On 9 February, the Supreme Court sought the complete details of the privatisation plan of Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). During the hearing, the Chief Justice asked from the ministers that what the government plans to do with the Pakistan Steel Mills, to which the Federal Minister for Privatisation stated that the bidding would take place in September or October, adding that the privatization process would be completed only after the settlement between the Mills management and the employees. Further, Federal Minister for Planning and Development said that the ownership of the steel mills would remain with the government of Pakistan. (Shahid Rao, “SC seeks complete details of PSM sell-off plan,” The Nation, 10 February 2021)

Govt should first fix the structural issues plaguing the power sector, says Editorial
An editorial in Dawn states that although IPPs new ‘binding’ agreements with the government would assist in the settlement of the dues and reduction in future capacity payments and prepare the ground for a temporary decline in the circular debt, however, that only would not be enough to stop the debt build-up in future let alone clear up the existing stock. The editorial states, unless the government fixes the structural issues in the power sector, it should forget about the liquidation of circular debt stock. (“Agreement with IPPs,” Dawn, 10 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan to ask China for debt relief on power projects’ loan
On 10 February, The News International reported that Pakistan is planning to ask China for relief on payments for power projects Beijing financed over the past eight years. Although Islamabad has not made any formal request yet, the two countries have discussed easing terms on the repayment of debt on about a dozen power plants that are part of China’s Belt and Road financing. (“Pakistan to seek debt relief from China power projects’ loan,” The News International, 10 February 2021)

 
Also read...                                                                                

Today, all major newspapers in Pakistan – Dawnthe Newsthe Nation and the Express Tribune had condemned the violence perpetrated by the lawyers in Islamabad High Court.

Zahid Hussain in his column in Dawn writes that “Pakistan’s Senate elections manifest all that is flawed in the country’s democratic process.” Lt Gen Talat Masood, in his column in the Express Tribune, draws lessons for Pakistan from the coup in Myanmar coup, and argues, “Dynastic politics, and absence of democratic values and culture within Pakistan’s political parties will have to change if democracy has to be strengthened.”

On India-Pakistan relations and J&K, Amb Ashraf Jehangir Qazi writes on the relevance of Shimla agreement vis-à-vis the UN resolutions and argues “no agreement between India and Pakistan such as the Simla Agreement or the Lahore Declaration can be validly interpreted as derogating from the UN acknowledged and still unexercised rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

 

"Child rights cannot be ensured on the basis of myths. They can only be provided by managing realities. Worsened by an obscene gap between rich and poor, Pakistani children continue to remain vulnerable, unless their parents are paid well enough and the state is able to check a runaway population."

-An opinion in The Express Tribune
on 'Child rights, myths and realities'

 

 


Lawyers storm into chamber IHC’s Chief Justice


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 9 February 2021
Lawyers get lawless in Islamabad High Court
Yesterday (Monday), a group of lawyers stormed the Islamabad High Court (IHC) ransacked the premise and held Chief Justice of the IHC – Justice Athar Minallah as a hostage. According to Dawn, “the violent lawyers laid siege to the courtroom and the chamber of IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah, virtually keeping him hostage for about three hours. They barged into the offices of the secretary to the IHC chief justice and his auxiliary staff, broke windows and even doors of the Chief Justice Block.”
 
What made the lawyers pursue such a course of action, that would place any civilised person hand his/her head in shame, leave alone the people of black robes? It is all about illegal chambers that the lawyers have built. Earlier Justice Minallah looked into a suomotu case relating to a group of lawyers encroaching a football ground in 2013 to build their chambers. When the Capital Development Authority attempted to clear the encroachment, all hell broke; lawyers responded negatively and ended up ransacking the Islamabad High Court.
 
This is not the first time that the lawyers have taken the law into their own hands. During the last decade, there have been several incidents, in which they turned violent. The last incident was in December 2019, when the lawyers stormed a cardiology hospital; multiple videos available online would underline the horror of what they did – both in the hospital and on the streets vis-à-vis the police.
 
Why is this getting repeated? The learned courts and the legal fraternity should do something. Not only in Pakistan, but in the rest of South Asia as well, for a common man, the judiciary is the last refuge. It is vital, that this institution protects its sanctity.

 

In Focus
Lawyers storm into chamber IHC’s Chief Justice
Violence garners mixed reactions from legal fraternity
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 8 February, lawyers barged into the chamber of the Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Athar Minallah. The lawyers also caused damage to property by breaking windows and doors of the Chief Justice Block.  The lawyers also abused judges and manhandled the courtroom staff. Further, they also blocked journalists from covering the violent siege at the IHC. The police have registered FIRs against 21 lawyers. Proceedings were suspended immediately.

The unprecedented violence was an apparent retaliation to the demolition of a lawyers’ chamber built on encroached land in 2013. Sources in Dawn said Justice Minallah had been looking into a suo motu notice regarding the above plot. 

IHC Bar Association urges for dialogue; lawyers present six demands
Meanwhile, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and IHC Bar Association (IHCBA) President Haseeb Chaudhry urged the lawyers to hold a dialogue. The lawyers then presented six demands; restoration of the demolished chambers,  immediate release of arrested lawyers, a compensation of Rs 500,000 per chamber, transfer of the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner, sessions judge and superintendent of police, and a 10 acre land for lawyers’ chambers in areas where district courts are transferred. 

Bar associations condemn demolition and violence
The Supreme Court Bar Association the CDA’s move to demolish the chambers. Meanwhile, the IHCBA “regretted the closure of courts and requested the Supreme Court chief justice to hold a judicial inquiry into the matter.” Similarly, Additional Attorney General condemned the events and said “It’s a new low by the lawyers.”

Previously…
On 7 February, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) had launched an anti-encroachment drive wherein dozens of illegal buildings were demolished. This included the lawyers chambers in F-8 and the police took 10 lawyers into custody for resisting the demolition. (Malik Asad, “Lawyers go on rampage in Islamabad after demolition of chambers,” Dawn, 9 February 2021) (Shahid Rao, “Violent black coats barge into IHC CJ Block against demolition of lawyers chambers,” The Nation, 9 February 2021)

 

Pakistan Navy to hold Aman-2021 from February 11
Aman is an effort to foster regional camaraderie, says Rear Admiral

Image Source: Dawn

On 8 February, Pakistan Fleet Commander Rear Admiral announced that the seventh edition of Aman-2021 will be conducted in Karachi from 11 February to 16 February with 45 countries. Aman is a multinational maritime exercise hosted by the  Pakistan Navy every two years.

The upcoming exercise is divided into two phases:  harbour phase and a sea phase. The Commander explained that the harbour phase will include seminars, discussions, and the like while the sea phase will include demonstration of tactical manoeuvres on anti-piracy, counterterrorism, rescue missions. 

Aman to focus on regional stability
The Rear Admiral said Aman is focused on improving regional operability between regions and extra-region navies. The exercise also has a primary focus on counterterrorism and counter piracy. In this context, the Admiral said “Aman-2021 is an effort to foster regional camaraderie, boost interoperability and exhibit a ‘united resolve against multifaceted threats.” (Shazia Hassan, “Navy’s Aman drill grows to host 45 countries,” Dawn, 9 February 2021)

 

PLA donates COVID-19 vaccines to Pakistan’s armed forces 
Armed forces donate to healthcare workers, say “nation comes first” 

 
Image Source: Dawn

On 8 February, the DG-ISPR announced the People’s Liberation Army had donated COVID-19 vaccines to Pakistan’s armed forces. The DG-ISPR said the armed forces will further donate the vaccines to the frontline health workers, because “nation comes first, always and every time.” The PLA donation came a week after China donated 500,000 doses of Sinopharm vaccines to Pakistan on 1 February. (“China donates Covid-19 vaccines to Pakistan Army,” The Express Tribune, 9 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
“Army does not need backdoor contacts with anyone and is doing its job,” says DG ISPR
On 8 February, the Director-General of ISPR Maj Gen Iftikhar rejected the rumours about “backdoor contacts” with opposition politicians to which he stated, “Army does not need backdoor contacts with anyone and is doing its job.” He also warned against dragging the military into political squabbles. Further, he stated that the army reiterated that the army has nothing to do with politics, asserting, “Please keep us out of it, this is not good for anyone.” (“Army denies ‘backdoor contacts’ with opposition,” Dawn, 9 February 2021)

Speaker takes actions against three MNAs for hooliganism
On 8 February, Speaker Asad Qaiser decided to issue letters to three MNAs, including the one belonging to the ruling PTI for hooliganism. According to a handout issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, the speaker has sought an explanation from the MNAs over the incident in which the NA witnessed unprecedented scenes during the session on 4 February when members from both sides created chaos in the House. (Amir Wasim, “Speaker to take action against three ‘rowdy’ MNAs,” Dawn, 9 February 2021)

PM urges Ulema to become part of tackling corruption
On 8 February, PM Imran Khan urged the Ulema and Islamic scholars to assist in ending the menace of corruption from the society, stating that joint efforts of all stakeholders are indispensable to tackle this challenge. He also asked the Ulema to create awareness about the principles state of Madina in society so that people change their perception about corrupt practices. Further, on Islamaphobia, he said, “Unfortunately, we [Muslim world] have failed to convey to the Western world that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism.” (“PM Imran seeks Ulema’s role to root out menace of corruption,” The Express Tribune, 9 February 2021)

SC orders immediately rebuilding the Karak shrine
On 8 February, the Supreme Court ordered the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government to immediately start rebuilding the Karak shrine which was previously vandalised by mobs late December. Further, the court also submitted a timeline for its completion. During the hearing, Evacuee Trust Property Board lawyer Ikram Chaudhry told the bench, “The government had approved Rs30.41 million for the reconstruction of the temple.” (“Top court seeks timeline for Karak temple rebuilding,” The Express Tribune, 9 February 2021)

Senate election ordinance is not presumptive but conditional legislation, says SC
On 8 February, the Supreme Court noted that the ordinance regarding Senate election is not presumptive but conditional legislation. The Chief Justice stated that no one could stop the government from issuing ordinances, however, if the court opinion differs from the government’s position, the reference would be abolished while adding that the ordinance has not been challenged before the apex court yet. (Shahid Rao, “No one can stop govt from issuing ordinance: Chief Justice,” The Nation, 9 February 2021)

PROVINCE
Three labourers shot dead in Kalat
On 8 February, three labourers were shot dead while another was injured in the Mangochar area of Kalat district. According to a senior Levies officer, “Armed men opened fire on the four labourers in the early hours of Monday morning when they were sleeping in their camp in Killi Khurasani,” adding, “The incident seems to be a case of targeted killing.” Further, Home Minister Ziaullah Langove directed the officials concerned to launch an operation for the arrest of the preparators involved in the killing of these labourers.” (Saleem Shahid, “Three labourers gunned down in Kalat,” Dawn, 9 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
Iran assures Pakistan of resumed cross-border travel
On 8 February, the Assistant Commissioner called a meeting at Raahdari Gate in Taftan to discussed border issues with the Marzban Grade-2 of Mir Javeh border town of Iran. During the meeting, Iranian authorities assured Pakistani officials that travel activities would resume shortly for people living along the border. Further, the Marzban Grade-2 stated that the travel gate would be reopened once they receive a signal from Marzban Grade-1. (Ali Raza Rind, “Iran agrees to resume cross-border travel,” Dawn, 9 February 2021)

 
Also read..                                                                                            
Niaz Murtaza reviews the half-term performance of the PTI; according to him, the PTI is struggling midway.
 
Mosharraf Zaidi on Pakistan-US-Afghanistan argues, “delivering the Taliban to the negotiating table is a reach.” On Afghanistan-Taliban-US, Rustam Shah Mohmand writes about the Taliban’s anxieties regarding the new US government relating to the February 2020 deal and using Pakistan to pressurize.
 
Editorials in DawnExpress Tribune, and the News on the latest report of the UN on Afghanistan consider it as a vindication of Pakistan’s position. Syed Nazir Gilani asks Pakistan to convert the Kashmir Solidarity Day from a ritual into a programme.

 


UN Report says the TTP responsible for over 100 cross-border attacks


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 8 February 2021
The Presidential Ordinance on Senate election
After failing to pass a resolution and make the open Senate election as a constitutional amendment, the PTI government took a short cut. It passed an Ordinance through the office of the President. Technically, there is nothing wrong about the strategy. But, politically?
 
The PTI government earlier has also made a reference to the Supreme Court on the same issue. The judiciary yet to respond to the reference; it has neither refused to give its opinion nor has discussed it. Can the government pass an ordinance when the issue is placed before the Supreme Court?
 
The above is a legal question. However, the most important one is the political question. If the objective of an open Senate elections is to make the process transparent, thereby strengthen the democratic and Parliamentary process, then passing it through an Ordinance is defeating the very purpose of democracy. Especially, when the Parliament has failed to reach a consensus on the subject, with the Opposition not agreeing to it.
 
 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs
Supreme Court observes that the government cannot be prevented from promulgating ordinance
Justice Gulzar Ahmed, Chief Justice of Pakistan, today observed that the government cannot be stopped from promulgating an ordinance. He was referring to the latest ordinance passed by the government relating to open ballot for the Senate elections. Earlier, JUI has filed a case on the subject.

DG ISPR says no backdoor negotiations with the PDM
Multiple news sources in Pakistan today referred to statements and interviews from Major General Babar Iftikhar, the Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG-ISPR), conveying that there are no backdoor negotiations.
 
Pakistan wins a test series against South Africa after 13 years
Today, Pakistan won the second and the final test against South Africa, thereby winning both the test matches. The first match held in Lahore and the second one came to an end today, with Pakistan registering the second win with a comfortable 90 plus runs margin.
 
In Focus
TTP responsible for more than 100 cross-border attacks, says UN Report 
Expected to increase the threat to Afghanistan, Pakistan and the region
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 3 February, the 27th Report of the UN Analytical and Monitoring Team showed that the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was reported to have overseen a reunification of splinter groups that took place in Afghanistan and was moderated by Al-Qaida. The report cautioned that the merger of TTP is expected to enhance the threat of terrorism to Pakistan and the region.
The report cites five entities pledged alliance to TTP in July and August. This increases in the TTP's strength resulted in a sharp increase in attacks in the region. Further, Member State assessments of TTP fighting strength range between 2,500 and 6,000, reporting that TTP was responsible for more than 100 cross-border attacks between July and October 2020.

Report highlights Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism
The report says, several Member States have taken action in recent months against individuals accused of financing Al-Qaida and ISIL, or their affiliates. In Pakistan, authorities highlighted the arrests of individuals engaging in terrorism financing and the freezing of the assets of designated individuals and entities. (“Monitoring Team’s Twenty-seventh report,” United Nations Security Council, 3 February 2020)

UN vindicates Pakistan stand on threats from Afghanistan, says FO
On 7 February, the Foreign Office spokesman said the reports “vindicate our longstanding position on threats posed to Pakistan and the region by groups like TTP, Jamaatul Ahrar (JuA), Hizbul Ahrar (HuA) and their affiliates, based in Afghanistan.” Further, the spokesman said, “Pakistan acknowledges monitoring team’s efforts in exposing the hostile agencies’ sponsored collusion of anti-Pakistan elements in Afghanistan,” adding “Islamabad now expected Kabul to ‘launch a dedicated effort to neutralise this threat’ emanating from Afghanistan.”

Further, reiterated the country’s stand the spokesman said, “Pakistan stands firm in its resolve to partner with international community against the menace of terrorism.” (Anwar Iqbal, “UN vindicates Pakistan stand on threats from Afghanistan: FO,” Dawn, 8 February 2020)

 

Pakistan's National Image: It matters, argues Maleeha Lodhi
Soft power efforts are imperative to correct misperceptions of Pakistan

Image Source: The Daily Times

An opinion in Dawn by Maleeha Lodhi critical of PM Imran Khan’s statement about the irrelevance of promoting a ‘soft image’ of the country says that the projection of this image seems to be based on a misunderstanding and contradicts statements previously made by him. She argues, soft power efforts are imperative for Pakistan to correct misperceptions and project its many positive attributes. 

The importance of ‘Soft Power’
While explaining the importance of ‘Soft Power’ she says that in a dynamic world like today, a country’s reputation and positive image count and play a pivotal role in earning respect and enhancing its diplomatic weight in international affairs. Additionally, she says, building a positive image as part of a soft power strategy is even more important for developing and smaller countries to raise their standing and enhance their outreach in a crowded international environment.

Pakistan’s national image
Lodhi agrees with PM Khan’s view that an image should not be manufactured merely to please others and that the country should “standing on one own’s feet,” however, for Pakistan, which has faced international image problems, owing to mis-characterisations and distortions, it is even more important to undertake soft power efforts to correct such misinterpretations. Further, she says, the country needs to project its positive socioeconomic attributes and rich heritage of arts, civilisation and culture, all which require official recognition that such an initiative is vital for the pursuit of its national goals and foreign policy interests. More importantly, she says that imagination to incorporate such a strategy into diplomacy is what is required. (Maleeha Lodhi, “Why a national image matters,” Dawn, 8 February 2020)

 

PDM’s decision for long-march was unanimous, says Rehman 
“We will chalk out our future political strategy after the sit-in,”

Image Source: Dawn

On 7 February, Fazlur Rehman stated that it was their unanimous decision to stage a sit-in (dharna) in Islamabad after 26 March, adding, “The focus will be on our demands during this protest. All parties of PDM, including PPP and PML-N, have agreed that they will come here and stage a dharna.” Further, he said that the PDM would not come and go away but demonstrate their strength with the support of people, adding “Experience tells us when people come out in large numbers, then strategy changes with each passing day, enabling us to decide what to say today and [what to say] tomorrow and what are the next issues.”

Future strategy to be discussed after the sit-in
Rehman said, “We will chalk out our future political strategy after the sit-in.” Further, he reiterated the alliance’s demands which is re-election, as the elections of 2018 and the present assemblies and the present government were not acceptable. (“All unanimous on long march, sit-in: Fazlur Rehman,” The News International, 8 February 2020)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Govt is pushing the country towards a constitutional crisis, says opposition
On 7 February, senior leaders from the PPP and PLM-N expressed serious reservations over the Elections (Amendment) Ordinance 2021 that the government promulgated. Reacting to the government move, PML-N secretary-general stated that the ‘selected’ government after administrative turmoil was pushing the country towards constitutional anarchy, adding, “the ordinance is another worst attack on the Constitution.” Similarly, PPP’s Sherry Rehman said, “PPP is a staunch supporter of transparency in elections but the overnight ordinance introduced by the government one day after both the houses of parliament were prorogued is a clear attack on the parliament’s inalienable right to amend the Constitution.” (“Opposition rejects govt ordinance on Senate vote,” Dawn, 8 February 2020)

Commission depicts a dismal picture of most revered Hindu sites in the country
On 5 February, the seventh report of the one-man Dr Shoaib Suddle commission submitted a dismal picture of most revered Hindu sites in the country to the Supreme Court. The report highlighted a general picture of decay and obliteration of two of the four most revered evacuee sites in Pakistan. Further, it stated that the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) failed to maintain most of the ancient and holy sites of the minority community and requested the court to direct the ETPB to get involved in the reconstruction of these sites. (Kalbe Ali, “Hindus’ holy sites a picture of neglect, says commission,” Dawn, 8 February 2020)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
America’s new path will have implications for Pakistan, says opinion
An opinion in Dawn stated that with the Biden administration’s renewed interest in international human rights will have far-reaching implications, including Pakistan. However, if Pakistan is trying to re-engage with the US, it will have to review its approach, concerning media crackdown to online surveillance and censorship, arbitrary detentions, disappearances and the persecution of religious minorities. The opinion concluded by stated that one wishes that Pakistan would promote human rights because of the moral imperative, however, the shifting geopolitics are likely to be the actual driving force behind it. (Huma Yusuf, “Human rights focus,” Dawn, 8 February 2020)

 
Also read...                                                                            
On the Senate elections ordinance that the President has promulgated, Dawn questions the need to bulldoze the process, instead of forging a political consensus in the Parliament.
 
Huma Yusuf makes an interesting argument on the fallout on Pakistan of the new US administration’s emphasis on human rights; she argues, that Pakistan will need to review its approach towards media crackdown, arbitrary detentions, disappearances and the persecution of religious minorities. Umair Javed writes on a social issue relating to exploitation of domestic workers in Pakistani households.
 
An interesting editorial in the News, looks at the responses on reservations to conduct local elections in Sindh and Balochistan, unless the 2017 census is corrected. The above is in response to the latest directive from the Supreme Court on local elections.
 
Muhammad Amir Rana makes an argument on making CPEC to address Pakistan’s diverse religious, ethnic and cultural profile. Masud Khan argues in the Nation that CPEC’s success is making India to intervene in Balochistan.
 

"Soft power efforts are imperative for Pakistan to correct misperceptions and project its many positive attributes."

-An opinion in Dawn
by Maleeha Lodhi on 'Why a national image matters'

 


Kashmir at liberty to choose independence or accession to Pakistan, says PM Khan


Photo: Dawn



 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs

Fawad suggests PDM parties merge to form new political party under Fazl
Federal Minister for Science and Technology Chaudhry Fawad Hussain suggested that the opposition parties merge into a new political party instead of an alliance to contest the upcoming local government elections. He said, PDM should contest elections as one political party to achieve "some semblance of a national colour because separately they don't have the ability."

PML-N claims of victory in defamation case against Daily Mail are 'lies'
Adviser to the Prime Minister on Interior and Accountability claimed that the PML-N was declaring premature victory by "giving the perception that Shehbaz Sharif had won his defamation case" against British newspaper Daily Mail after just a "meaning hearing."

 
In Focus
Kashmir at liberty to choose independence or accession to Pakistan, says PM Khan 
PDM criticises govt’s ‘impotent’ response to on Kashmir 
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 5 February, PM Imran Khan while addressing a gathering in Kotli announced that people of Kashmir would be at liberty to decide if they want to be part of Pakistan or as an independent nation even after deciding accession to Pakistan in a United Nations-sponsored referendum. Further, he said, “Once the plebiscite is implemented and Kashmiris join Pakistan, their relationship will be between Pakistan and Kashmiris,” adding, “It’s not because of any fear that we want friendship with you. It’s because we want to rid the Kashmiris of atrocities, we want them to achieve their democratic and human right to self-determination.”

While reiterating Pakistan’s position that the dispute can only be resolved by implementation the plebiscite guaranteed in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, he said, “today I am again suggesting India to resolve this issue [through meaningful dialogue] because there is no way out other than this…. But before that you will have to restore the pre-Aug 5, 2019 status of the occupied territory,” adding, “Agree to give the Kashmiris the right that was promised to them by the world community, and we are ready to talk to you,” he said but made it clear that this offer should not be misconstrued as Pakistan’s weakness. (Tariq Naqash, “Kashmiris can opt for independence after accession: PM,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

No change in Pakistan’s position, remains anchored in the relevant UNSC resolutions, says FO
The Foreign Office spokesperson stated that there is no change in Pakistan’s principled position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and that it remains anchored in the relevant UNSC resolutions. Meanwhile, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi in a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Security Council president Barbara Woodward called on the UNSC to push for the implementation of the UN resolutions on Kashmir. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “UN must exercise its power to implement Kashmir resolutions: Pakistan,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

Relations with India can never be normal until Kashmir issue resolved, says Alvi
President Dr Arif Alvi stated Pakistan’s relations with India would never improve without settlement of the longstanding Kashmir dispute, adding that they have done its best for improving the situation in the region. Further, he said, “our message to the whole world, particularly India, is that we are with the Kashmiris and we will never leave them alone… We will keep on repeating this [message] before the international community.” (“Ties with India can never be normal until Kashmir issue resolved: Alvi,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

Time to end this human tragedy and resolve Kashmir issue, says COAS
COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa via Twitter said, Salute to Kashmiris for their valiant struggle, braving gravest atrocities, human rights violations and lockdown in IIOJK under Indian occupation forces. Time to end this human tragedy and resolve Kashmir issue as per aspirations of people of J&K & UN resolutions.” (“Time to resolve Kashmir issue, says COAS,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

PDM criticise govt for its ‘impotent’ response to developments in Kashmir
The PDM held a meeting in Muzaffarabad where they criticised PM Imran Khan and his government’s “impotent” response to the government of India’s decision of the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A. Further, the alliance alleged, “Mr Khan was imposed on Pakistan under a conspiracy and that the loss of Kashmir was because of the failed foreign policy, silence and cowardliness of Imran Khan-led government in Islamabad.” (“PDM slams govt’s ‘impotent’ response to Kashmir annexation,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

 

Federal Cabinet decides to promulgate ordinance on Senate open vote
Draft prepared by AGP sent to PM, to be circulated among cabinet members

Image Source: The Express Tribune

On 5 February, the Federal Cabinet decided to promulgate an ordinance to amend the Election Act 2017 to hold the upcoming Senate elections through an open ballot. The ordinance is likely to be promulgated in a couple of days.

The enforcement on the ordinance would depend on the outcome of a presidential reference. Further, the government has also sought the Supreme Court’s opinion on whether the Senate elections could be held through open ballot by amending the Election Act 2017.
Further, the Attorney General of Pakistan has prepared the draft of the ordinance and sent to PM Imran Khan and is to be circulated among the cabinet members for approval. (Hasnaat Malik, “Govt decides to promulgate ordinance on Senate open vote,” The Express Tribune, 6 February 2021)

Previously…
On 4 February, the decision for the presidential ordinance was made after the strong demonstration from the opposition in the National Assembly blocking the passage of Constitution Amendment Bill, tabled by the government for holding Senate polls through the open ballot. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt plans to promulgate ordinance for Senate polls through open vote,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

 

ECP proposed conducting local govt elections in three phases
Provinces want to delay the polls to make substantive changes in the local government laws

Image Source: Dawn

On 6 February, Dawn reported that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has proposed to conduct the local government (LG) elections across the country in three phases considering the four-time larger magnitude of the exercise as compared to general polls. Further, as reported to Dawn, all the provinces still wanted to delay the polls on the pretext of their intention to make substantive changes in the local government laws. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “ECP proposes local govt polls in three phases,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Two bomb blasts leave two killed and 20 injured in Balochistan
On 5 February, two people were killed and 20 others injured when two bombs exploded during Kashmir Solidarity Day rallies in Quetta and Sibi. Officials said that the improvised explosive devices (IED) were used for the blasts, once which was place under a truck and another under a bike. (Saleem Shahid, “Two killed, 20 injured in two Balochistan bomb blasts,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

Punjab to generate over 5,000MW electricity through small hydropower project by 2024
On 6 February, Dawn reported that Punjab plans to generate over 5,000MW electricity under short, medium and long-term strategies by 2024 as a means to reduce the reliance on the national grid. The plan also includes 300MW through the launch of several small hydropower projects. Further, Punjab has also floated tenders to launch construction of 12 mini-hydropower projects before June 2021. Further, the government is also set to complete various studies related to solar, wind, biomass resource mapping of the province based on the World Bank locational studies and establishment of coal park at Rahim Yar Khan. (Khalid Hasnain, “Punjab plans 5,000MW power generation by 2024,” Dawn, 6 February 2021)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN 
GB CM discusses Bhasha Dam project with Wapda chairman
On 4 February, Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Muhammad Khalid Khursheed called on Wapda Chairman Lt-Gen Muzammil Hussain (retd) to discuss the hydro development in the region. During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters related to the Diamer Bhasha Dam project and the confidence-building measures (CBMs) undertaken by Wapda in the project area for socio-economic development of the locals were discussed in detail during the meeting. (“GB CM Khalid Khursheed discusses Bhasha Dam project with Wapda chief,” The News International, 6 February 2021)

PAKISTAN’S WORLD VIEW
Nothing less can be expected from the criminal gang running Myanmar says editorial 
An editorial in The Express Tribune critical of the criminal gang running Myanmar and their decision to cut internet access says that nothing less is expected from a military headed by generals that the UN Human Rights Commissioner wants to put on trial for war crimes. Further, the editorial says that Aung Sang Suu Kyi represents a transition towards a system where bad leaders can be replaced before they run their country into the ground. (“Greedy coup,” The Express Tribune, 6 February 2021)

ON CPEC
CPEC knowledge and Research Corridor will enhance the intellectual capacity
An opinion in The Daily times says the academic and research collaboration between China and Pakistan has witnessed impressive growth in the last few decades. The establishment of a Knowledge and Research Corridor between the two countries would be an effective “Develop mechanisms to fully exploit the opportunities arising out of China’s appetite for global talent, and facilitate absorption of their graduates by Pakistani economy.” Further, CPEC knowledge and Research Corridor (CKRC) would enhance the intellectual capacity of the faculty and staff of Pakistani Higher Education Institutes, which will turn the youth force of Pakistan. (Prof Dr Attaullah Shah, “CPEC and China Pakistan Knowledge Corridor,” The Daily Times, 6 February 2021)

 
Also read...                                                                               
Fahd Husain writes, The wrong war saying that on Kashmir solidarity day, Pakistan needed to speak with one voice. It did. But not exactly. The price of political dis-functionality is a steep one.

An editorial in Dawn critical of the Chaos in parliament says Thursday’s session, escalating already simmering tensions and confirming once again that civility and dialogue are unthinkable for both sides. Another opinion by Muhammad Ziauddin asks A drawn first round? arguing that all through the past months the political air in the country has rung with disruptive rhetoric.
 
 

"The divisions between the PTI and opposition parties are clear as day, but both sides, though cheerleaders of democracy by their own proclamations, indulge in behaviour
that hurts the democratic process...Sanity must prevail, for this bitterness is giving no relief to the public."
-An editorial in Dawn
on '
Chaos in parliament'

 

 

 


National Assembly turns chaotic amid open vote debate


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 5 February 2021
Government fails to pass the Senate voting bill; PDM announces a long march. But Pakistan is obsessed with Kashmir
Since Wednesday, the Parliament has been witnessing unruly scenes between the government and opposition members. The government tabled the 26th Constitution Amendment Bill seeking to make the Senate elections based on open voting, instead of the existing process through a secret ballot. For two days in a row, Parliament saw slogans, shouts, abuses and scuffles. Dawn's report says, "Perhaps for the first time in the country's parliamentary history, the treasury members were seen pointing out lack of quorum after staging a walkout from the house to prevent the opposition from delivering speeches." 

Outside the Parliament, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the eleven-member opposition alliance has announced a long march towards Islamabad in March 2021, after giving Imran Khan a deadline to resign on 31 January 2021. The PDM has also announced that it would contest the Senate elections together. It appears that the Opposition and the government are on the warpath. This is a recipe for political instability.

Despite the impending political instability within and outside the Parliament, Pakistan came together to observe "Kashmir Solidarity Day" on 5 February. This year, like the previous year, there was an extra emphasis. Newspapers were full of editorials and opinions on Kashmir; the Nation dedicated the first two pages to remarks by the Prime Minister, President, Chief of Army Staff, Foreign Minister, Interior Minister and the numerous others. 

Perhaps, it is time for the government and Opposition to observe "Pakistan Solidarity Day".

 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs

Kashmir, Kashmir, Kashmir
Today (5 February 2021), Kashmir became the centre of focus for the entire country at federal and provincial levels. Statements were made by the Presidents, Prime Ministers, Chief of Army Staff and other ministers at the federal level. Events and marches were held at provinces level in the respective capitals, with the Chief Ministers and others taking part in the same. 

Imran Khan was quoted: "However much I can, I am raising my voice on your behalf at every forum, and will continue to do so. Whether it is the United Nations, world leaders, European Union leaders, I asked the past president of the US three times to resolve this issue…Rest assured, I said I will be the Ambassador of Kashmir, and I will raise my voice for you everywhere until Kashmir gets freedom." The foreign minister said: We are with you. Our thoughts and passions are with you." There were similar messages from the rest, condemning India and asking the international community to intervene effectively in J&K.

Pakistan plays up the posters in J&K thanking Imran Khan
Today the media gave an extra emphasis on posters appeared in J&K. Pasting the posters, the media also highlighted the content thanking Imran Khan: "Thank you Pakistan, thank you Imran Khan for effectively raising the Kashmir issue at all global platforms."

 
In Focus
National Assembly turns chaotic amid open vote debate
Treasury, opposition call each other thieves, allege corruption 
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 4 February, treasury members and opposition descended into a brawl accompanied by scuffles, slogans, whistles and abuses during the National Assembly session. The Deputy Speaker was surrounded by Opposition members who were protesting against an alleged biased functioning of the House. They accused him of “running the house one-sidedly and not giving them the floor.” 

The chaos was a continuation of the debate on the proposed open voting for the upcoming Senate elections. Treasury members staged a walkout to prevent the Opposition from delivering their speeches and brought an inconclusive end to the bill.  

Parliamentarians raise slogans 
While the treasury members were leaving, the opposition parliamentarians shouted slogans along the lines “look who is running away, thieves are running away” and “go Niazi go.” Similarly, the Minister for Science and Technology said “the ringleader gang of thieves has gone to London, leaving behind his gangsters.” When PPP’s Raja Pervez Ashraf was delivering his speech, the treasury members shouted “Raja rental.” However, he was pushing for a parliamentary committee to discuss and review the proposed bill. 

The Opposition members also criticised the policies of the government and carried placards against the rise in electricity tariff, general price-hike. Some of the placards were alleging corruption by the government and “a compromise on the Kashmir cause.” 

FM Qureshi lashes out
Amid the disruption, Foreign Minister Qureshi said the parliamentarians had displayed enough patience and emphasised that the House cannot function with the prevailing attitude. He said the Opposition had no manners or tradition. (Amir Wasim, “Govt gives up on Senate open vote bill after unruly NA session,” Dawn, 5 February 2021) (“26th Amendment bill: MNAs prefer physical fights to verbal debate,” The News International, 5 Fenruary 2021)

 

Will jointly contest Senate elections: PDM
Long march to be held on 26 March

Image Source: Dawn

On 4 February, the PDM announced that it will jointly contest the upcoming Senate polls. The PDM chief Fazlur Rehman said no constituent party of the PDM will compete against the other; they will jointly field their candidates. The PDM also announced that it would carry out its long march on 26 March and will be called the “mehangai march” to call out the problem of inflation. Fazlur said that smaller rallies from across Pakistan will march towards Islamabad on the said date. 

During the announcement, the PDM reiterated their rejection of their suggested open voting system for the elections. Further, the PDM also rejected the appointment of Azmat Saeed for the one-man committee formed to investigate the Broadsheet scandal. 

PDM leaders indecisive on long march and no-confidence motion
According to Dawn’s sources, the PDM leaders were indecisive on the above two issues but were open to holding more discussions. Maryam Nawaz hinted that there was no plan on how long the march would continue. However, the sources said Bilawal Bhutto was reluctant to continue an indefinite meeting. Similarly, the other parties were not keen on Bilawal’s plan for the no-confidence motion terming it non-viable.
(Asim Yasin and Muhammad Anis, “PDM's march begins on March 26,” The News International, 5 February 2021) (“PDM to start long march on March 26,” Dawn, 5 February 2021)

 

Govt ‘killed democracy’ by dissolving local bodies, says SC
“Instead of derailing the entire system why don’t you want to keep the system running”

Image Source: Dawn

On 4 February, a Supreme Court bench hearing the local government elections case stated that the government had “killed democracy” by dissolving local bodies (LBs) in Punjab before the expiry of their term. While heading the bench, Justice Qazi Faez Isa stated, “You killed democracy and this is unconstitutional and worse than dictatorship,” adding, “Will you throw away the entire local government system if you do not get favourable results tomorrow and an opposition party sweeps the elections.” Further, he asked the government, “Instead of derailing the entire system why don’t you want to keep the system running.”

Raises question whether the media was free in the country
During the hearing, Justice Isa raised the question whether the media was free in the country and asked journalists present in the courtroom to raise their hands if they believed the media was free, to which most of them did not respond, showing that the media is not free. He then observed, “Whosoever sways from the constitution commits criminal offence and should go to jail since media freedom has been ensured in the constitution,” adding, “When you destroy the free press, you destroy the country.”

Pledged to uphold the constitution
Justice Isa while saying that Pakistan was not a fiefdom of anyone pledged, “We (judiciary) would die protecting the constitution.” Echoing the same Justice Baqar said, “No matter whoever chooses to be silent, we will keep on speaking as long as we can.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Govt ‘killed democracy’ by dissolving LBs: SC,” Dawn, 5 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan and Uzbekistan discuss construction of trans-Afghan railways project  
On 4 February, the Ministry of Commerce stated that Pakistan and Uzbekistan have started discussions for the construction of a trans-Afghan railways project to enhance bilateral trade and regional connectivity. The advisor to the PM on Commerce, Textile, Industries & Production and Investment stated, “I am glad to share that I held very productive bilateral meetings in Tashkent with the leadership of Uzbekistan on trade, Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), Transit Trade and Custom Cooperation.” This comes as trilateral talks between Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Afghanistan on Mazar-e-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar railway line was held in Tashkent. (“Trilateral talks held on trans-Afghan railway line,” Dawn, 5 February 2021)

 
Also read...                               

Kashmir occupied the editorials and opinion articles in Pakistan media today. Dawn, in its editorial wrote, "Kashmir is not a piece of real estate about which there is an ownership dispute, but an issue of self-determination." The News has presented the case of "Kashmir's pain". The Nation has announced: "We must strike now, while the iron is still hot." The Express Tribune argues in its editorial that "we have reached a point where world powers must intervene and force India to the dialogue table before we finally reach rock bottom."

Yusuf Zaman writes on the silence of the world leaders as questionable, and "the indifference of the Muslim Ummah is also perturbing." Moonis Ahmar argues, that "no other community in this part of the world has rendered so many sacrifices as the Kashmiri Muslims."

 

"A country needs to have an excellent growth plan, required incentives that align with the plan and a proficient administrative set-up that can carry out growth-related work efficiently. Pakistan has none of these attributes. Hence, we are caught in a vicious debt spiral,
which might prove to be a death spiral."
-An opinion in Dawn
on 'Mortgaging Pakistan'

 

 


Pakistan begins nationwide vaccination drive


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial, 4 February 2021
The forthcoming Senate elections, and how not to conduct it
Yesterday, the government introduced a new bill in the Parliament seeking open voting for the forthcoming Senate election (against the existing secret ballot system) and making those with dual nationality to contest the general elections.

With less than a week (Senate elections are slated for 8 February), this is an ill-timed move. Given the nature of the issue, the subject needs bi-partisan discussion, and should not be bulldozed through the Parliament. Today, the opposition parties are against the idea of an open ballot for the Senate elections; the PTI, if sitting in the opposition would also have not approved the idea. The PTI fears that a secret ballot may lead to horse-trading in the Senate elections and prevent its chances. 

Half of the total 104 Senators would be retiring this month. Currently, the PML-N and PPP have the majority together with 33 and 20 seats respectively. MQM has fives seats, while the PkMAP and JUI have three and four respectively. The PTI, based on the present numbers at the provincial assemblies, is likely to become the single largest party in the Senate. According to the Constitution, 14 members, four women, four technocrats, and a minority member shall be elected by each Provincial Assembly.

For the PTI, it is all about achieving a majority in the Senate, and for the Opposition it is all about disrupting the same. With the PDM likely to announce a road map today (4 February 2021), one should expect an unruly election for the Senate. 

The Senate election is also bound to create heartburn within the political parties. Many loyalists, who could not win the general elections are expecting a reward for their loyalty from their respective leadership.

 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs
"Go Imran Go" slogans and scuffles disrupt the Parliamentary proceedings
For the second day in a row, today (Thursday) the proceedings in Parliament was disrupted, with the ruling and opposition members engaging in a shoving match. The Opposition was against the government tabling a new bill on changing the Senate election procedure.
 
Justice Isa to the Punjab government on local governance: "You killed democracy. It is unconstitutional. It's worse than dictatorship"
Today Justice Qazi Faez Isa as a part of a two-member bench in the Supreme Court came down heavily on the provincial government of Punjab led by the PTI for dissolving the local government system before the expiry date. The local government in Punjab was to expire in January 2022, however, was dissolved by the PTI government in May 2019 itself. Early this week on Monday, Justice Maqbool Baqar had asked for an explanation from all four provincial assemblies on the local government elections.
 
A crucial day for the PDM today
Today, the PDM is likely to meet for a crucial discussion to chart out a road map. Earlier, it had given a deadline to Imran Khan to resign by 31 January 2021. Since it has not happened, the eleven-member alliance has to plan for the next steps today. According to available reports, the PML-N's Nawaz Sharif has given the go-ahead to Maulana Fazlur Rahman to decide the course of action. 
 
The following three decisions are crucial today: a plan of action with street protests and long march towards Islamabad to disrupt the PTI government, Senate election and how to contest the same, the role of PPP within the alliance, if the former has a different plan of actions, especially on resignations from the provincial and federal assemblies.
 
Senate elections: First list of the PTI ready
Today, for the forthcoming Senate elections, PTI's Parliamentary committee has prepared a list of names for consideration by Imran. This list, according to the News, includes the following: Shahzad Akbar, Zulfi Bokhari, Sania Nishtar, Abdul Razzak Dawood, Babar Awan, Saifullah Niazi, Dr Zarqa and Nilofar Bakhtiar. 
 
In Focus
Pakistan begins nationwide vaccination drive
Government should educate people on possible side effects, says editorial
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 3 February, the Natio­nal Command and Opera­tion Centre (NCOC) launched the nationwide vaccination drive, “including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.” Commercial Minister Co­u­­nsellor of China Xie Guo­­xiang presided over the launch as the chief guest. The SAPM on health appreciated the frontline hea­lthcare workers (FLHCW) and paid tribute to them for having put their life at risk during the pandemic. He said that Pakistan would procure 17 million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca through Covax by June. 

Vaccination drives inaugurated in all provinces
On the same day, Chief Ministers of Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were the chief guests for the launch of the vaccination roll out in their respective provinces. (Ikram Junaidi, “Countrywide vaccination drive gets under way,” Dawn, 4 February 2021)

Vaccination not recommended for people above 60, pregnant women
However, the SAPM said people above 60 years, pregnant women and lactating mothers should not be inoculated with the Chinese vaccine currently being administered. This is because of the lack of efficacy data for the above group of people. However, the SAPM assured that people in the said age group would be vaccinated with the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. Apart from the above, the Sinopharm vaccine should not be given to people who have pre-existing respiratory, cardiovascular disorders and neurological or blood conditions. (M Waqar bhatti, “Chinese vaccine not suitable for people above 60, pregnant women: SAPM Dr Sultan,” The News International, 4 February 2021)

Editorial calls for instilling trust among public regarding vaccination
An editorial in Dawn suggests that the government should provide a clear picture to the Pakistanis about the possible side effects of the vaccine in order to avoid misinformation. The editorial pushes for regular updates on those vaccinated so that concerns on whether the elites got priority can be addressed. In this way, the government can build among the public. (“Vaccination begins,” Dawn, 4 February 2021)

 

Law minister tables bill for open ballots in Senate elections
Opposition resorts to slogans, hoots, and whistles

Image Source: Dawn

On 3 February, the Minister for Law and Justice tabled a bill in the National Assembly to introduce an open ballots system for the Senate elections. The Opposition tried to disrupt and get the NA’s proceedings adjourned. However, it could not do so due to lack of quorum. 

Opposition disrupts proceedings
Despite the lack of quorum, the opposition carried on hooting, sloganeering and whistling. Members of the treasury and opposition were chanting “go” at each other. Amid the chaos, the Speaker called for a recess after which the Deputy Speaker continued the session.

PML-N voices concerns; federal ministers ask Nawaz to return to the House
PML-N parliamentarian Ahsan Iqbal said the amendment was an attempt to “protect friends of Imran Khan.” He said the amendment enables dual nationals to contest the elections; this provision, according to him, was framed to a federal minister from disqualification. He also accused the Speaker of partial attitude. 

The Minister for Communications and the Adviser to PM on Parliamentary Affairs, said the open ballots system was aimed at preventing sale of parliamentarians. The Communications Minister accused the Opposition of using the Parliament to serve their interests and challenged Nawaz Sharif to return to the House “if he was so patriotic.”

Meanwhile…
On the same day, the Supreme Court said opposing the idea of open ballots was equal to  continuing horse trading. The Chief Justice noted, if “they are opposing it means that they want to continue the system of selling and buying votes.” The Attorney General also reflected the above and said the open ballots system was aimed at ensuring transparency and was not an attempt to malign parliamentarians. (Muhammad Anis and Sohail Khan, “NA turns riotous as govt's open ballot bill presented,” The News International, 4 February 2021)

 

ASFC conducts training launch of Ghaznavi missile
ISPR terms the launch as successful

Image Source: Dawn

On 3 February, the Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) conducted the ‘training launch’ of nuclear-capable ballistic missile Ghaznavi (Hatf-III) as part of its annual field training exercise. According to Dawn, the ISPR announced the “successful training launch” of the Ghaznavi missile.

Ghaznavi (Hatf-III) 
Ghaznavi (Hatf-III) is a solid-fuel, road-mobile, surface-to-surface ballistic missile that has a range of up to 290km. The missile is equipped with a proper terminal guidance system and in the recent past, the ASFC has conducted training launches to check the handling and operating of the weapon system. Further, the Ghaznavi missile has been tested in both day and night modes, depicting the 24/7 readiness of the missile that is considered to be the most accurate ballistic missile in Pakistan’s arsenal. (“Successful training launch of Ghaznavi missile conducted,” Dawn, 4 February 2021)

Previously…
On 20 January, Pakistan conducted another test of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-III, having a range of 2,750 kilometres. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations, “The test flight was aimed at re-validating various design and technical parameters of the weapon system.” ("Pakistan conducts flight test of Shaheen-III missile," The News International, 21 January 2021)

On 7 January, the ISPR said that Pakistan had successfully tested its extended-range guided Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS) called Fatah-1. The MLRS, produced indigenously, has a range of 140 kilometres and has the capacity to carry a conventional warhead. According to Dawn, with the development of the indigenous weapon, Pakistan appears to respond to India’s “development of its conventional capabilities.” (“Pakistan tests multi-launch rocket system,” Dawn, 8 January 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PDM to spell out its strategy for the future
On 4 February, The News International reported that the PDM is set to announce the real agenda it wants to achieve through the alliance, and unfold the future strategy of one of its important components, the PPP especially regarding its plan of a no-confidence motion against the government primarily in Punjab. The entire PDM except for PPP has lost the nerve to continue with this situation any longer given the overall embarrassment the congregation had to digest lately. (Ali Raza, “PDM to unfold future strategy today,” The News International, 4 February 2021)

PROVINCE
Four terrorists killed in North Waziristan: ISPR
On 3 February, four terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire with security forces in the Mir Ali area of North Waziristan. According to Dawn, the ISPR security forces noticed the presence of terrorists in a compound in Mir Ali and once troops cordoned off the area, terrorists opened fire. Further, the ISPR said that these terrorists were involved in kidnapping for ransom, extortion, raids on security forces and IED explosions. (“Four terrorists killed in North Waziristan,” Dawn, 4 February 2021)

 
Also read...                                                                      

IA Rehman reviews the IPU's (Inter-Parliamentary Union) best practices on Parliament and democracy. He argues that the Parliament that the Pakistanis "need and deserve cannot be created without free and fair elections and that is a dream yet to be realised." Fahd Hussain writes about PTI's tough situation in awarding tickets in the forthcoming Senate election, as there are many who are expecting that the leadership would recognize with the same for their contribution to the party. Inam Ul Haque makes an interesting analysis of Pakistan TV channels and comments that the level of "debate on national television is absurdly pathetic".

Nong Rong on the rise of the Chinese economy and its implications on China-Pakistan cooperation elaborates on areas that have helped China to boost its economy, and how that would help the bilateral cooperation. 

And finally, a commentary that argues on the Daniel Pearl murder that there is no evidence has proved Omar Sheikh as the assassin. However, it also argues, that Khalid Sheikh Muhammad killed Daniel Pearl and later was handed over to the CIA in 2003. 

"Pakistan seems to be hurtling along in a direction opposite to the goal of a truly democratic dispensation. A meaningful start towards rebuilding Pakistan will be possible only after the state can be cured of its infatuation with a regressive outlook and concentration of power at the centre."
-An opinion in Dawn
on 'The parliament we need' by I A Rehman

 

 


Pakistan rolls out COVID-19 vaccines


Photo: Dawn



Also Read
Lt Gen Talat Masood makes a list on what should be the high priority for Pakistani leadership. He argues the following: “strengthening parliament, correcting course in civil-military relations, building a firm foundation for the economy, and expanding and deepening relations with friendly countries.” Rustam Shah Mohmand reviews the Transparency International’s recent report on corruption and Pakistan’s position, and tries to find answers for why corruption has increased in the last two years, despite tall claims by the government.
 
Wajid Shamsul Hasan, makes a passionate plea against vilifying Lt Gen Asad Durrani. He writes about a jaundiced view which “is a common malaise among the so-called intelligence community.”
 
On the PDM, an editorial in Dawn argues though the opposition may not be leaking, but remains rudderless. The News, in its editorial also makes a similar observation and comments on the record of a popular movement, overthrowing sitting governments in Pakistan.
 
PR Editorial, 3 February 2021
The first person in Pakistan gets vaccinated. When will the last person receive?
When a 50-year-old doctor, an anaesthetist from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences got vaccinated in Islamabad, he made a record by being the first Pakistani to be vaccinated by the State. The Prime Minister was his witness; this would bring a challenge to end, but also open news ones. Vaccines are finally in Pakistan, and ready to be rolled out across the four provinces. This should address the primary challenge of waiting for the vaccines. Now, it has arrived, Pakistan must address the other challenges of vaccination.
 
First and foremost, would be the number of vaccines available, in relation to the number of people to be vaccinated. Pakistan is dependent on importing vaccines, and is less likely to manufacture within in the near future. The first batch containing 500,000 doses, manufactured by China Sinopharm arrived in Islamabad yesterday from China. The population of Pakistan according to 2017 census is more than 207 million. Where will Pakistan receive the vaccines from for the entire population, and by when? According to a Express Tribune report, Pakistan is expecting 6 million doses from AstraZeneca vaccine by March 2021, and 11 million more by June. Remember, the 207 million figure.
 
Second distribution challenges – from arrival to provincial and then to district capitals, including storage and transportation. As the distribution starts, politics will creep in. The question will be on: which province gets how much and by when? On day one, as all the Chief Ministers of the provinces inaugurate the vaccination drive, they are enthusiastic and euphoric. But, as days progress, they would feel the political pinch in vaccinating the right amount of people at the right time.
 
Third, awareness. A section has been refusing to take even polio vaccination, despite the availability and the network. Worse, they have been apprehensive and even against the polio vaccination. Pakistan would need a larger awareness campaign to convince the pessimists.
 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs
Vaccination starts across four provinces
Following the arrival of 500,000 doses of vaccines from China, Pakistan began the vaccination drive across the provinces. The first person was vaccinated in Islamabad yesterday. Today (Wednesday) Sindh, Punjab, KP and Balochistan started with the vaccination drives. Except for KP, the Chief Ministers of other three provinces were present on the occasion.
 
FIA to investigate the phone hacking of Justice Isa
According to a news report, the Federal Investigation Agency would examine into the complaint made by the Supreme Court on hacking Justice Isa’s phone. News reports had earlier quoted a statement from the Supreme Court on Tuesday: “It is intimated to all and sundry that the cell phone of Hon’ble Justice Qazi Faez Isa has been hacked…There is suspicion that misguiding communication can be made from his lordship’s number to anyone with ulterior motives, therefore, the communication purportedly made from his lordship’s cell phone, which his lordship had not sent may be treated as fake and false.”
 
 
In Focus
Pakistan rolls out COVID-19 vaccines
NCOC targets vaccination of 70 million Pakistanis for herd immunity
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 2 February, Pakistan launched the COVID-19 vaccine inoculation programme by vaccinating the frontline health workers. The first jab was given to a 50-year old anesthetist and critical care specialist of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims). 

Prime Minister Imran Khan thanked his team which helped procure the vaccines and also extended his gratitude to China. On 3 February (today), the countrywide vaccination drive will begin. 

PM assures equal distribution of vaccines
Imran reiterated that vaccines will be equally distributed to all provinces; the government is also confident all Pakistanis would be vaccinated by the end of 2021. However, the first tranche of vaccines will be transported depending upon the number of healthcare workers registered in each province as a priority. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan begins vaccine roll-out,” Dawn, 3 February 2021)

NCOC charts out nationwide plan
The National Command and Operations Centre calculated that of the 220 million Pakistani population, 100 million would have to be vaccinated after leaving out people under 18 years of age. Of this, to reach herd immunity, Pakistan would have to vaccinate 70 million. To procure vaccines for 70 million people, the NCOC plan has shortlisted three avenues. First, by engaging bilaterally with a manufacturing country; second, through the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisations (GAVI); lastly, through the private sector. 

China has already provided half a million doses which would inoculate 0.25 million people. Further, Pakistan has booked vaccines for 20 million people with the Chinese firm Cansino. The country hopes to procure vaccines for 45 million people through GAVI. With this, it would secure vaccines for 65.25 million of the target population. The rest would be covered by Russia’s Sputnik-V vaccine, with which Pakistan is negotiating, and through private sectors. 

However, the SAPM estimates that the actual number would come down to 40-50 million of the population as many would refuse to take the jab. (Fahd Husain, “SITUATIONER: Govt confident of vaccinating all citizens by year-end,” Dawn, 3 February 2021)

 

Finance Ministry signs deal to clear dues of IPPs 
Rs 450 billion dues to be cleared in two instalments

Image Source: The News International

On 3 February, Dawn reported that the Finance Ministry had agreed to clear dues worth Rs 450 billion of Ind­ependent Power Producers (IPPs). This would be carried out in two instalments of two instalments of 40 per cent and 60 per cent over six months. According to Dawn's source, the Energy Ministry had been finalising a plan on 2 February to be presented to the Economic Coordination Com­m­ittee (ECC) for formal approval on 3 February (today). 

Government set to pay dues after signing PPAs
According to the agreement, the government would clear 40 per cent of the dues after signing the amended power purchase agreements (PPAs). This amount would be paid as follows: one-third in cash, one-third in Pakistan Investment Bonds (PIBs) and one-third in five-year Islamic Sukuk. The second instalment of 60 per cent, which will be paid by August, would also follow the same structure. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Finance ministry to clear IPPs dues in two tranches,” Dawn, 3 February 2021) (Khalid Mustafa, “Revised power tariff: All 47 IPPs sign Master Agreements,” The News International, 3 February 2021)

 

Pakistan and UK move closer to signing the extradition treaty
Interior Minister, British High Commissioner meet

Image Source: Dawn

On 1 February, the first batch of 500,000 doses of Sinopharm vaccine from China arrived in Islamabad On 2 February, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed and British High Commissioner Christian Turner reached an understanding towards the signing of the extradition treaty. Once signed, Pakistan would be among the 100 countries that have such agreement with the UK. Pakistan has previously tried to sign the treaty; however, the UK expressed its reluctance on the bases that it does not sign extradition treaties with the countries subjected frequently to military rule. 
Currently, the UK and Pakistan have no formal extradition treaty, however, the UK though Section 194 of the UK Extradition Act 2003 contains provisions for special “ad hoc” extradition arrangements. (“Pakistan, UK inch closer to inking extradition treaty,” Dawn, 3 February 2021)

Previously…
In 2019, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, in a joint press conference with FM Shah Mahmood where the former stated, “Let me say it straightforward. The UK will never sign any treaty allowing for politically motivated extradition.” In response, Qureshi assured that “no extradition treaty signed by the UK would ever allow for politically motivated extradition.”

Hesitance to signing the extradition treaty 
While the UK has expressed hesitancy to signing the extradition treaty on the grounds that it could be used for politically-motivated cases, they would prefer signing the treaty as a means to extradite from Pakistan those involved in social crimes in the UK. Conversely, for Pakistan, the motive for signing has a strong underlying political mandate. 


In Brief
INTERNAL
SC orders Omar Sheikh to be moved out of death cell to ‘rest house’                 
On 2 February, the Supreme Court ordered Omar Sheikh to be moved out of his death cell to a rest house while remaining in state custody, saying, “Though the detenue (Omar Sheikh) is entitled to be freed, he should be moved to a comfortable residential environment out of the Karachi prison to something like a rest house.” Further, the SC is to issue a written order allowing Sheikh’s family to meet him between 8 am and 5 pm. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC wants Omar Sheikh moved out of death cell to ‘rest house’,” Dawn, 3 February 2021)

Durrani judgement is a living testimony of conspirators to uproot democracy in Pakistan, says opinion
An opinion in The Daily Times critical of the allegations against former ISI Asad Durrani says that such statements Belittling a national hero. The author says that Durrani who dared to expose the dirty game of deceit by his army chief General Aslam Beg, late President Ghulam Ishaq Khan who plotted to overthrow PM Benazir Bhutto’s government should only be commended for his actions. Further, it says, Durrani’s affidavit in the Supreme Court and the subsequent judgement is a living testimony to the indictment of the then army chief, then president and conspirators to uproot democracy in Pakistan. (Wajid Shamsul Hasan, “Belittling a national hero!,” The Daily Times, 3 February 2021)

ON CPEC
23 CPEC projects passed says, Asim Bajwa
On 2 February, CPEC Chairman Lt Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa gave a detailed briefing on the CPEC projects being carried out in the Balochistan. At the meeting, he stated that 23 projects related to energy, road infrastructure, industrial cooperation, social and economic development and Gwadar development have been formulated out of which a 1,320-megawatt coal-fired power plant project has been completed in Hub whereas the Gwadar smart port city masterplan project has also been completed. (“23 CPEC projects passed: Chairman Asim Bajwa,” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2021)

ON INDIA
Pakistan and India must resolve Kashmir dispute in a “dignified and peaceful manner,” says COAS
On 2 February, (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa stated “Pakistan and India must resolve the longstanding issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner as per the aspirations of people of Jammu and Kashmir and bring this human tragedy to its logical conclusion.” However, he added, “we will not allow anybody or any entity to misinterpret our desire for peace as a sign of weakness.” Further, he said, “We stand firmly committed to the ideal of mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. It is time to extend hand of peace in all directions.” (“It is time to extend hand of peace in all directions: army chief,” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2021)

 

"It would be premature to write off the alliance, even if it is manifesting a discernible lack of vigour. The combined opposition is still strong, and the PTI’s misgovernance in various sectors remains its Achilles heel."
-An editorial in Dawn on 'PDM adrift'

 


Government passes CPEC Authority bill


Photo: Dawn



Also Read
Muhammad Hamid Zaman analyses the vaccination challenges facing Pakistan and a possible roadmap to move ahead in vaccinating. The News, in its editorial, also addresses a similar issue relating to registration for vaccination.

Qaisar Shareef argues that there is a unique opportunity to build positive relations with the US, and lists the same relating to Afghanistan, Iran, China and India.

Shahid Rahim counters an argument made earlier on how to address Pakistan's power sector, and makes a case against privatization and competition. 


PR Editorial, 2 February 2021
Pakistan's Supreme Court orders immediate release of Omar Sheikh: What next?
Today (2 February 2021, Tuesday), the Supreme Court asked the government to immediately release Omar Sheikh, one of the primary accused in the case of Daniel Pearl's abduction and killing. Last Thursday, the Supreme Court ordered the same, while responding to the Sindh provincial government's appeal against the Sindh High Court's decision in 2020. Last year, the Sindh High Court issued a verdict on the case, finding Omar Sheikh and a few others guilty only of kidnapping and not the murder.

The Sindh provincial assembly filed a review petition last Friday. Yesterday, Pakistan's Attorney General appealed to the Supreme Court; the latter refused to stay the order by the Sindh High Court and gave a one-day space for the government before releasing Omar Sheikh. Today, the Supreme Court followed up with its earlier decision and asked the government to release Omar Sheikh to a rest house for two days with security.

So what next for the government of Pakistan? The US has already demanded that Omar Sheikh be handed over for a trial. Though Pakistan does not have an extradition treaty with the US, in the past it did not prevent them from handing over a few individuals who had links with al Qaeda and the Taliban. However, Pakistan may be reluctant to hand Sheikh to the Americans; there are serious concerns about how he landed in Pakistan 20 years ago, how he networked with the militant groups based in Pakistan, and how he ended up in the Indian jail. There are also serious concerns on how he was asked to be released by the Indian Airlines plane's kidnappers in 1999. Furthermore, how did he end up Karachi in 2002 to kidnap Daniel Pearl? What was he doing between 1999 and 2002? Whom was he in touch with inside Pakistan during this period?

Or, will Pakistan place Sheikh in detention in another case?

These are tough questions; Pakistan may not want Omar Sheikh to reveal them to the US. With the next round of FATF meeting coming in March, where Pakistan's position in the greylist is to be discussed, it would not want to attract any negative statements on terrorism, terror finance and links with al Qaeda and Taliban.

 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs
Supreme Court orders to government to move Omar Sheikh from a prison to a guest house
Today (Tuesday), after giving a one-day space for the government yesterday, the Supreme Court ordered it to move Omar Sheikh from the prison in Karachi to a guest house. The Supreme Court has also ordered the government to provide security for the guest house and provide him with access to his family members between 0800 and 1700 hrs.

PDM to meet on 4 February 
The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) will meet on 4 February 2021, to decide the future course of action, after the failure of their ultimatum to Imran Khan to resign by 31 January. It has been reported that besides an action plan, the PDM would also discuss internal differences withing the eleven parties alliance on 4 February.
 
In Focus
Government passes CPEC Authority bill
Opposition resorts to sloganeering
 
Image Source: Dawn
 

On 1 February, the government passed three bills, including the CPEC Authority bill, and presented two Ordinances despite the chaos created by the Opposition. The other two bills were Public Private Partnership Authority (Amendment) Bill 2020, and the Pakistan Single Window Bill 2020. However, the Opposition insisted on speaking about the economy instead of discussing the proposed bills. 

Opposition raise slogans 
When the Speaker began reading the  clauses of the bills, the Opposition started shouting slogans and called for the Speaker’s release (“Speaker ko riha karo”). Further, the Opposition resorted to calling the government officials electricity thieves, wheat thieves and the like. 

Parliamentary Secretary bashes Opposition
Parliamentary secretary for commerce criticised the Opposition, especially PML-N. She referred to the PML-N party meeting held last week and said “an unelected member had made the parliamentarians hostage.”

Previously…
In October 2019, President Arif Alvi had introduced the CPEC Authority Ordinance before Imran Khan visited China. The government was able to acquire an extension of 120 days for the ordinance; the extension lapsed in May 2020 due to the  government’s failure to get it passed in either of the two houses of parliament. It was reintroduced in October 2020 in the National Assembly. (Amir Wasim, “Govt bulldozes CPEC Authority bill through NA,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

 

Balochistan Education Minister highlights acute shortage of teachers
Learning poverty and gender gap in province higher than national figures

Image Source: Dawn

On 1 February, Balochistan Minister for Education handed out appoin­t­ment letters among 388 male and female teachers. However, he noted that the province did not have enough teachers. He highlighted that many schools in the province had to be closed down because they had just one teacher. Once, he/she retires, the schools - referred to as ghost schools - remain closed. 

However, he said the government was making all-out efforts to address the issue and called on the media to expose the corruption in the education department. (Salim Shahid, “Balochistan faces acute shortage of teachers: minister,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

Learning poverty at 80 per cent in Balochistan
According to the Annual Statistics of Education Report (ASER) 2019, the learning poverty in Balochistan stands around 80 per cent surpassing the national figure of 75 per cent. Learning poverty is measured by “tracking learning for ALL 10 year olds in low and middle income countries who cannot read and understand a simple text, whether they are in school or out of school.” Further, the report says only 30 to 40 per cent of children in Balochistan in the age group 3-5 age group attend pre-school, second only to KP which had newly integrated FATA within it. Further, in the 6-16 age group, 21 to 30 per cent of the children are “out of school” (not in school). Further, 18 per cent of the girls are out of school in Balochistan. (“Annual Status of Education Report, ASER-PAKISTAN 2019” (Provisional), ASER Pakistan Secretariat, 29 January 2020)

The gender gap
According to the UNICEF, “Pakistan has the world’s second-highest number of out-of-school children” -  approximately 22.8 million children. In the figures, geography and gender play an important role. For example, 78 per cent of girls in Balochistan are out of school while the figure stands at 58 per cent in Sindh. (“Education: Giving every child the right to education,” UNICEF)

 

First batch of Chinese vaccines arrive in Pakistan
Inoculation process to begin on 3 February (tomorrow)

Image Source: Dawn

On 1 February, the first batch of 500,000 doses of Sinopharm vaccine from China arrived in Islamabad through a special PAF flight. Foreign Minister Qureshi thanked China and said the vaccines sent by China are a “proof reflecting Pakistan and China's friendship.” Ambassador Nong Rong agreed and thanked Pakistan for granting emergency approval and for conducting the Phase 3 trial of the vaccine. (Mariana Babar, “500,000 doses of Chinese vaccine arrive in Pakistan,” The News International, 2 February 2021)

Inoculation process begins tomorrow
A senior official from the Ministry of National Health Services told Dawn that the inoculation process would start on 3 February. He, however said, the plan and logistics have not been released because of security issues. The SAPM on Health told Dawn that the vaccines would be dispatched to different provinces on 2 February (today). (Ikram Junaidi, “As vaccine arrives, inoculation process to start tomorrow,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

Editorial highlights concerns regarding registration process
An editorial in The News International says the SAPM and Foreign Minister deserve the credit and accolade for procuring the vaccine from China. While acknowledging the need to vaccinate the health workers first, the editorial raises concerns about the registration process for the rest of the population. It opines that the absence of clear policies will lead to hijacking of the process by the powerful. It concludes by asking if the NCOC will be able to coordinate with the National Database & Registration Authority to vaccinate the elderly first as per the proposed plan; it urges all authorities to not complicate the process for people who are already under the stress of the pandemic and economic hardships. (“Registration for vaccination,” The News International, 2 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
TLP to resume protests against the government for not honouring the agreement 
On 1 February, a central leader of the Tehrik Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) told The News International, “Instead of implementing the agreement between the PTI government and TLP leadership after a three-day sit-in in Islamabad on November 17, 2020, the government has stepped up victimisation of TLP and is placing dozens of its leaders and workers in the Fourth Schedule.” As a result, the TLP is considering resuming protest across the country against the government for failing to implement the agreement which called for expelling the French ambassador and taking other measures for organised blasphemy of the Prophet (SAW) in France. (Asim Hussain, “Agreement not honoured: TLP considering resuming protest,” The News International, 2 February 2021)

Attempting to knockout Fazlur on technical grounds will see no results, says an article
An article in The News International says that the four veteran leaders of the JUI-F, who were expelled from the party are attempting to knock out Maulana Fazlur Rehman on technical grounds in an attempt to secure power. However, the article says that even if they were to succeed it is unlikely that it would have an impact on the stature and standing of Fazlur within his party, in the PDM or on the overall political scenario. (Tariq Butt, “Attempts for technical knockout: Move intended to dent Fazl’s high-profile political role,” The News International, 2 February 2021)

FM rejects opposition’s criticism of ‘diplomatic isolation’
On 1 February, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi rejected the opposition’s criticism of ‘diplomatic isolation.’ He stated, “The foreign policy is linked to state’s interests,” while calling on lawmakers of the opposition for a briefing on external affairs and developing consensus on different issues related to it. Further, he warned against the creation of rival views on relations with the external world. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “FM rejects claim Pakistan stands diplomatically isolated,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

SC to maintain the status quo on Daniel Pearl for a day
On 1 February, the Attorney General requested the Supreme Court to suspend the Dec 24, 2020, Sindh High Court (SHC) order in the Daniel Pearl case, citing global implications and serious consequences. Further, the AG highlighted that the high court had restricted the federal government from issuing any preventive detention order when there was a mandatory requirement to issue notice and hear the AG before issuing such orders. However, the SC decided to maintain the status quo for a day instead of granting any stay against the SHC order. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC maintains status quo for a day in Pearl case,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

ON INDIA
Aviation Minister claims Indian lobby behind PIA plane seizure
On 1 February, Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan alleged that there was an Indian lobby’s behind the seizure of the PIA passenger plane in Malaysia last month. Further, the minister accused the then PLM-N government of acquiring planes for PIA from a foreign firm at higher than the market value, claiming that the previous advisor on aviation tried to take bribes in the lease deal of the plane, alleging that the adviser was “controlled” by some Indians. (“Minister sees Indian lobby behind PIA plane seizure,” Dawn, 2 February 2021)

 
 

"The PTI government is obsessing with curriculum because it’s easier to tinker with it than fix the education standards.."
- An opinion in Dawn on 'Educating Pakistan'

 

 


PTI may be the single largest party, but may not have the majority in Senate says an analysis


Photo: Dawn



PR Editorial,1 February 2021
The PDM after 31 January deadline
What next for the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), an alliance of 11 political parties that includes the PPP, PML-N and JUI-F?

The PDM had set a deadline of 31 January for Imran Khan to resign. Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of the PPP, has tweeted that the "selected PM has failed to resign by the deadline" set and has also "missed the opportunity to step aside in a respectable manner", so that there could be a transition to democracy with free, fair and transparent elections.

Bilawal's tweet either sets the tone or merely repeats the rhetoric. There have been numerous statements by the Opposition that Imran Khan has been "selected"; meaning, the Establishment played a role in the 2018 elections, thereby ensuring the PTI's victory. This is what is underlined by the subsequent note that Pakistan needs a "transition to democracy" and "free, fair and transparent elections."

Now, the 31 January deadline is gone, what next for the PDM? Imran Khan and the PTI has not yielded to the demands, and are unlikely to do so. This means the PDM will have to look towards Plan B – the street protests and the long march to Islamabad. The next PDM meeting is scheduled on 4 February; most likely, this would happen – an announcement of protest politics, and a long march to Islamabad.

But how far will the PDM go? This would depend on how united they stand on issues. Already, there is a divide within over resignations from the national and provincial assemblies. While the rest of the PDM is in favour of this idea, the PPP is not. Also, how far will the Establishment stand outside and watch the protest politics? These two factors will decide the nature of the PDM's road map.

 
Pakistan Today at 1900 hrs

The first batch of COVID vaccines arrive from China; Pakistan calls it as a practical proof of friendship
Today (1 February 2021), Pakistan received the first batch of COVID vaccine containing 500,000 doses, manufactured by Sinopharm from China. Pakistan has asked for another one million doses. In an event, the foreign minister of Pakistan thanks China and highlighted the vaccine delivery as a practical proof of the bilateral relationship between them. The Chinese Ambassador who also took part in the event underlined that Pakistan was the first country to receive the Chinese vaccines.

The Supreme Court extends the detention of Omar Sheikh for one day, on Sindh government's request
On Monday, Pakistan's Supreme Court has given a day more to the Sindh government to release Omar Sheikh from detention. Last week, the Sindh government filed a review petition against the Supreme Court's verdict.

The Supreme Court issues notice to all four provinces over local elections
On Monday, the Supreme Court issued notice to all four provinces - Balochistan, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, asking why they have not conducted the local governments' elections in the provinces. These local governments' tenure came to an end in these four provinces during 2019-20 itself.

 
In Focus
PTI may be the single largest party, but may not have the majority in Senate, says an analysis
Senate elections seem to be worrying the government, says editorial

Image Source: The Express Tribune
 

On 1 February, an analysis in Dawn said, though PTI is likely to emerge as the single largest party during the Senate elections in March, it may not gain control of the upper house. In March, 52 of the 104 Senators will retire; of this, polling for four seats of erstwhile FATA will not be held. Therefore, polling will be held for 48 seats - 12 each from KP and Balochistan, 11 each from Punjab and Sindh and two from Islamabad. 

Dawn predicts party wise numbers
According to Dawn’s calculations, if all MPAs vote strictly in accordance with the party policy, it would lead to a hung Senate as the government and opposition have almost equal seats. By these calculations,  PTI is expected to win 21 seats, PPP and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) would win six seats each and the PML-N, five. Adding to the rest of the Senators, the PTI will have 28 seats in total, PPP - 19, PML-N - 17 and BAP - 13. However, the number of PTI seats would also depend on its adjustments with allies. (Amir Wasim, “PTI to emerge as largest party in a hung Senate,” Dawn, 1 February 2021)

Editorial hopes for solution to disagreement on open ballots
An editorial in The News International says the government seems to be worrying about the Senate elections. It cites Imran Khan’s push for open ballots to prevent changing party loyalties and says this would not address the underlying corruption in the political system. Further, it refers to the development funds released for MNAs and MPAs and opines that Imran has become a part of the political system he was previously opposing. It concludes that development funds are not a solution to the political climate and hopes the government and opposition reach a consensus on open ballots to prevent corruption and ensure fair elections. (“Handling the Senate,” The News International, 1 February 2021)

 

PDM's deadline ends, with PTI ignoring it
Article highlights opposition’s failure to achieve target

Image Source: Dawn

On 31 January, Bilawal Bhutto said Imran Khan “missed the opportunity” to quit on the deadline set by the PDM. He said, by rejecting the ultimatum, Imran had prevented a smooth transition to a free and fair democracy. Further, he alleged the current government was pushing for new rules for the upcoming Senate elections to rig them because it could sense its defeat. (Kashif Abbasi, “PM missed opportunity to quit with dignity, says Bilawal,” Dawn, 1 February 2021)

Article highlights differences within PDM 
An article in The News International says the PTI government’s refusal to resign reflects failure on the part of the PDM. The author says the opposition gave an ultimatum to the government "without any deep reflection or even a consensus within the PDM.” He highlights the divided views of the PDM parties - whether to submit resignations or to contest the by-elections. This is because Asif Zardari has always been “opposed to any move that brings down the system” while the JUI-F and PML-N stay firm. However, the author concludes that the biggest question is whether the PDM has been able to create a rift between the PM and “the powers that be.” (Tariq Butt, “After failing to force PM’s resignation: PDM faces challenging circumstances, differing strategies,” The News International, 1 February 2021)

No-confidence motion, long march on the cards
On 31 January, Bilawal tweeted that the no-confidence motion and long march would be discussed in the upcoming PDM meetings. However, the PML-N has been skeptical about the same and Asif Zardari had previously intervened and assured her that the PPP was open to all options. (Rameez Khan, “Ball in PDM’s court as Jan 31 deadline ends,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2021)

 

Inflation rate eases to 5.7 per cent says, Asad Umar
PM approves hike in petrol and diesel prices 

Image Source: Dawn

On 31 January, Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar stated that the government’s efforts to reduce inflation were showing results with the consumer price index and core inflation both being at a two-year low. This is the fourth consecutive fourth month where the inflation pace was on a downward trajectory. Further, he said, “Inflation continues to decline. January inflation (CPI) is down to 5.7%.” (“Inflation reduced, claims PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 1 February 2021)

PM Imran Khan via Twitter said, “More good news on the economic front. Our efforts to reduce inflation are now showing results. Consumer price index & core inflation are both now lower than when our government was formed,” adding, “I have told my economic team to stay vigilant & ensure that inflation stays under control.” (Shahbaz Rana, “Inflation eases to over two-year low,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2021)

PM approves a minimal increase in petrol and diesel
On 1 February, The News International reported that PM Imran Khan rejected the summary of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority’s (Ogra) for petrol price hike by Rs13.18 per litre and approved a minimal increase of Rs2.70 per litre. Previously, the Orga proposed an increase of Rs13.18 per litre in petrol price, Rs12.12 and Rs11.10 in prices of highspeed diesel (HSD) and kerosene oil respectively, however, taking into account public interest PM Khan approved an increase of Rs2.70 per litre in petrol price, Rs2.88 for HSD, and Rs3.54 and Rs3 per litre in the prices of kerosene oil and LDO respectively. (“Petrol, diesel prices raised again,” The News International, 1 February 2021)


In Brief
INTERNAL
PAC document reveals NAB’s official position on Broadsheet scam
An article in The News International says that an official document of a sub-committee of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) reveals the NAB’s official position on how and on whose recommendation the approval the payment of USD 1.5 was paid to a person who turned out to be a fake representative of Broadsheet LLC. The document showed the NAB claiming that the payment to Broadsheet LLC (Colorado) was made with the approval of the then prime minister Yousaf Raza Gillani. Further, it revealed that there was also a direct liaison between the then minister of law Farooq H Naik, chairman NAB Naveed Ahsan and Ahmer Bilal Soofi, an international law expert. (Ansar Abbasi, “PAC document reveals NAB’s stance on Broadsheet scam,” The News International, 1 February 2021)

Corruption is the mother of all evils, says NAB Chairman
On 31 January, Chairman of the NAB Justice (R) Javed Iqbal stated that corruption is the mother of all evils and is the biggest obstacle to the development and prosperity of Pakistan. Further, he stated that he strongly believes in the eradication of corruption, adding that it is the bureau's priority to make Pakistan corruption-free as the fight against corruption is a national duty. (“Corruption-free Pakistan only motto of NAB: Justice (r) Javed Iqbal,” The Nation, 1 February 2021)

EXTERNAL
FM hopes new US administration would play an effective role on the Kashmir issue
On 31 January, FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that he hopes that new US administration would play an effective role in the solution of Kashmir issue. He argued that the Kashmir issue was not an internal matter of India but a globally recognised dispute. Further, he stated that there was no backdoor diplomacy or chance of bilateral trade with India, adding that the added through the shared dossier “We apprised world that India was trying to destabilise Pakistan through terror incidents.” (“FM hopes US to play role on Kashmir dispute,” The Nation, 1 February 2021)

 

"The PDM has almost fizzled...The opposition in Pakistan needs to learn from the example of Nelson Mandela and Pakistan’s own dissidents in the past who always preferred to go to jail rather than compromise."
- An opinion in The News International 
on "Women, politics and opposition'

 


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