In Brief
POLITICS
PPP begins long march against PTI government
On 27 February, the Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, accompanied by other PPP party leaders, launched the ‘Awami Long March’ at the Mazar-e-Quaid against the PTI government. Bilawal, calling it a “final push” against the “weakened and unjust” government at the Centre raised a 38-point charter of demands and called for a nationwide and unified movement of all opposition parties to remove the PTI government. (Imran Ayub, “Bilawal kick-starts march to dislodge PM Imran,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

During a press conference he said, “We are very much hopeful that the establishment would remain neutral. And if the establishment stays neutral, Imran Khan is not going to win this no-trust move. The opposition must struggle for a one point agenda — get rid of Imran Khan. And for that purpose we should be on one page and have a joint strategy.” (Imran Ayub, “If establishment stays neutral, Imran can’t survive no-trust move: Bilawal,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

Interior minister claims that opposition is in a deadlock over no-confident motion
On 27 February, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed claimed that the opposition is in a deadlock over their plan of bringing a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan. Similarly, federal Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry said, “We have been hearing for the last 15 to 20 days that the no-trust move was around the corner, but in reality that is beyond their power as they lack the capacity to bring the motion.” (“Sheikh Rashid claims opposition in deadlock over no-trust move,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

JI to meet PML-Q leaders
On 28 February, Dawn reported that the Jamaat-e-Islami has contacted the PML-Q leadership. Further, the report said that the JI leaders plan to visit the Lahore residence of Chaudhrys of Gujrat to inquire after the party president Shujaat Hussain. (“Jamaat-e-Islami leaders likely to call on Chaudhrys,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Five-day anti-polio campaign begins in provinces
On 28 February, a five-day was launched in all the 34 districts of Balochistan for which preparations have been completed. Coordinator of the Emergency Operation Centre, Balochistan, Hameedullah Nasar said, “We have adopted strict security measures to prevent any unforeseen situation. Personnel from Balochistan Levies Force, police and Frontier Corps would be deployed to protect the polio workers,” adding, “As the routine immunisation (RI) is an important pillar of polio eradication initiative, we are trying to provide adequate resources not only for vaccination against childhood vaccine preventable diseases but also working for the expansion of RI service delivery in remote areas to boost coverages.” (“Polio eradication drive begins in Balochistan today,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

Sindh: Karachi world’s fourth-largest polluted city
On 27 February, IQAir organisation in a new investigative report stated that Karachi has turned out to be the world's fourth-largest polluted city as its air quality index has surged to an unhealthy level of 193. According to the report, PM2.5 concentration in Karachi has been recorded 11.8 times higher this month which is above the WHO annual air quality guideline value. The report blamed the rise in pollution to the negligence of the federal and Sindh governments towards environmental reforms. (“Karachi world’s fourth largest polluted city: report,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
EU Ambassador and delegation assure support for the extension of GSP status
On 27 February, Special Representative of the European Union for Human Rights Eamon Gilmore and EU Ambassador in Pakistan Androulla Kaminara during a meeting with Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar gave assurance of their full support in the extension of GSP Plus status for Pakistan. Additionally, during the meeting, the matters related to bilateral ties between Pakistan and EU, trade promotion and the extension of GSP Plus status were discussed. (“EU delegation supports GSP Plus extension,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

Chaman border reopens, resuming trade Pak-Afghan trade
On 27 February, trade resumed between Pakistan and Afghanistan after the Chaman-Spin Buldak border which was closed after clashes between the two countries’ forces was reopened. The border was reopened after a delegation of ulema from Chaman headed by tribal elder Molvi Haji Faizullah Nourzai held negotiations with Kandahar Governor Yousef Wafa and other Taliban leaders. A spokesperson for the Ulema delegation said, “Our negotiation remained fruitful and resulted in opening of the border,” adding, “both sides regretted the clashes which caused loss of lives from both sides.” (Saleem Shahid, “Pak-Afghan trade activities resume as Chaman border reopens,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

Pakistan and India to hold talks on water issues
On 28 February, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan and India will hold talks in Islamabad from 1 March to discuss water issues between the two countries. According to the report, the meeting would be held through the 117th session of the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) in which a 10-member delegation of Indian water experts will arrive in Lahore via the Wagah border to resolve bilateral water disputes. The Indian delegation will be led by Indian Commissioner for Indus Water Pradeep Saxena while Pakistan will be represented by Indus Water Commissioner Commissioner Mehr Ali Shah. (“Pakistan-India water talks to start tomorrow,” Dawn, 28 February 2022)

FM Qureshi speaks with Ukrainian foreign minister
On 28 February, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a telephonic conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba highlighted the “importance of de-escalation” in his conversation with his as Kyiv battles a Russian invasion. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office spokesperson said, “Foreign Minister Qureshi shared Pakistan’s perspective in detail, reiterating serious concern at the situation, underscoring the importance of de-escalation, and stressing the indispensability of diplomacy.” (“Qureshi underscores de-escalation in talks with Ukrainian counterpart,” The News International, 28 February 2022)

ON INDIA
Trade with India is the need of the hour, says PM aid
On 28 February, The Express Tribune citing PM Adviser on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood statement that “Trade with India is the need of the hour and beneficial to both countries … it should open now,” states that the adviser’s initiative to reopen trade with India is indeed the need of the hour.  The report says that this would in turn help improve Pakistan’s economic growth and balance of payments through savings on freight and make our industry more competitive. (“Normalising trade with India,” The Express Tribune, 28 February 2022)

“Whereabouts unknown”
Dawn, 28 February 2022
According to police data, more than 40,000 women were abducted in Punjab between 2017 and January 2022. That means 8,000 females each year, around 650 each month, go missing. The police claim they have recovered or traced 37,140 of them while the whereabouts of 3,571 remain unknown.

“PPP on the move”
Dawn, 28 February 2022
THE PPP’s ‘long march’ on the capital that kicked off from Karachi yesterday appears to be more of a mass mobilization drive in preparation for the fast-approaching 2023 elections than a strategy to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan.

“Telecom boom”
The Express Tribune, 28 February 2022
The country’s telecom sector is witnessing a “paradigm shift” with foreign shipments of mobile phones increasingly contributing to the economy through “foreign exchange earnings, employment generation and transfer of technology.”

“Burdened economy”
The Express Tribune, 28 February 2022
Pakistan's economy is in a struggling mode. Though its macroeconomics indicators are defined, it is a plethora of external factors that is derailing it off and on. The surging current deficit and plummeting of rupee is primarily owing to oil and spiraling food prices on the international market.

“Whither higher education”
The Express Tribune, 28 February 2022
Concerned citizens have long been worried about the state of education, particularly in the sphere of higher education, in the country. A miasma of despair surrounds higher education.

“Violent youth”
The News International, 28 February 2022
In fact, our educational system with its overwhelming religious and sectarian leanings has imparted not harmony and tolerance but self-righteousness that produces a violent and obstinate youth that is drowning in its own bloodlust.

Maleeha Lodhi, “Putin Ukraine gambit”
Dawn, 28 February 2022
The unfolding crisis over Ukraine has heightened the danger of prolonged turmoil and instability in Europe. After weeks of failed diplomacy to avert this crisis, the situation took a fateful turn when President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops to two rebel-held areas of eastern Ukraine and recognized them as independent regions.

Syed Waqar Ali Shah, “Research woes”
Dawn, 28 February 2022
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s research culture leaves much to be desired. There are several indications of why the research produced in the country’s universities is lacking in both original ideas and the development of arguments.

Kamran Yousaf, “Why Pakistan and Russia are getting closer?”
The Express Tribune, 28 February 2022
Pakistan defied the US pressure, considered expanding its relationship with Russia a vital foreign policy objective.

In Brief
POLITICS
PTI to hold long march against PPP
On 26 February, the PTI has planned to start its Ghotki-Karachi march titled ‘Haqooq-i-Sindh March.' As part of the march several central and provincial leaders made their way to the starting point, Kamoo Shaheed area, along the Sindh-Punjab border. ("PTI set to start Ghotki-Karachi march against PPP today," Dawn, 26 February 2022)

Decision for post of PM post success of no-trust motion will be taken by together, says Shehbaz
On 25 February, Shehbaz Sharif while talking to reporters said, “I am thankful to those who have proposed my name for the slot of prime minister… but who says I am taking the office (as premier) for a year or so? The decision about the new prime minister in the wake of the success of a no-trust move will be finalised by  Nawaz Sharif in consultation with opposition parties.” Further, on the no-trust motion against Imran Khan, he said, “Bringing a no-confidence motion is the opposition’s constitutional and political right and no one can dare stop it.” (Zulqernain Tahir, "Shehbaz Sharif won’t like to be ‘PM for a day’," Dawn, 26 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Phase-wise LG election in May and June, says CM Murad
On 26 February, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said in a conversation with Dawn said, “The elections are to be held in two phases. So I think the first phase can be held in the third week of May and then the second one in the first week of June." Further he said, “We don’t have any issue at our end as there are only legal and administrative formalities that take time.” ("CM Murad sees phase-wise LG election in May, June," Dawn, 26 February 2022)

Sindh: Government launches anti-polio drive targeting 10 million children
On 25 February, the provincial government launched an anti-polio drive, targeting over 10 million children. The drive would cover children under the age of five in 30 districts across the province. The drive will continue from 28 February to 6 March. Over 70,000 polio worked and 10,000 supervisors have been employed to carry out the drive. ("Anti-polio drive targeting over 10m children launched in Sindh," Dawn, 26 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Most involved in violence over blasphemy aged 18-30, says Additional Inspector General Police (IGP), Punjab Operations
On 25 February, the Additional Inspector General Police (IGP), Punjab Operations informed the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights that 90 per cent of those involved in blasphemy violence are between the ages of 18 and 30. Further, the committee expressed concern over the incidents of blasphemy, stating that such a reaction from the youth was a matter of deep concern. ("Senate HR body told: Most involved in violence over blasphemy aged 18-30," The Express Tribune, 26 February 2022)

ANP leader cautions the government against undoing the 18th constitutional amendment
On 25 February, Ameer Haider Khan Hoti, leader of Awami National Party (ANP) and member of the national assembly reminded the government that any bid to change the structure of the 18th Amendment would be resisted with full force. He also criticized the statements of the government on the construction of the Kalabagh dam and said the project was detrimental to the rights of smaller provinces. (“ANP leader warns govt against changing 18th Amendment,” The Express Tribune, 26 February 2022)

PPP is on the same page with opposition on press freedom
On 25 February, PPP stalwarts met with delegations from various press bodies like Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CNPE), Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) and Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA). The PPP chairman assured the party’s unwavering support and solidarity in the joint endeavor to fight for the inalienable fundamental, constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Pakistan. (“PPP committed to press freedom, says Bilawal,” The Express Tribune, 26 February 2022)

28 February to observed as black day, says PFUJ
On 25 February, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) announced that they would observe 28 February as black day in their resistance against Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Ordinance 2022, deeming it a “draconian law” intended to restrain media freedom and stifle dissent. The statement from PFUJ said: “The journalist body had never and will never accept such ordinances.” (“PFUJ announces 'Black Day' against PECA Ordinance on Feb 28,” The Express Tribune, 26 February 2022)

ECONOMY
PM assures the nation of over governments steps to protect the poor from inflation
On 25 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan met several ministers and renowned industrialists at his residence. He directed the ministries to not let the poor get affected by price hikes and inflation. He also suggested to pace up the development programs related to health to be completed on a priority basis. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Steps being taken to protect poor from inflation, says PM Imran,” Dawn, 26 February 2022)

Fortnightly indicators suggest a hike of PKR 10 per litre on petroleum products
On 25 February, a national daily reported that due to higher international oil prices, application of additional petroleum levy and currency devaluation petroleum may become more expensive. Based on a new scheme, the government are revised by the government on a fifteen days basis rather than on monthly basis. The government has been increasing the price of petrol by PKR 4 rupees to fulfil its commitments to IMF to take the petroleum levy at PKR 30 per litre which is currently at PKR 17.92 per litre on petrol, PKR 13.30 on HSD, PKR 9.50 on LDO, PKR5 on kerosene and PKR 30 on high octane blending component. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Petroleum prices may go up by Rs10 per litre,” Dawn, 26 February 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
Foreign minister dismisses allegation of camp politics on Pakistan
On 25 February, foreign minister Shahs Mehmood Qureshi apprised the media of the recently concluded visit of PM to Russia. He added that prior to PM's visit to Russia, a senior level contact was made by the USA and the objective of PM's visit was explained. He said, “Pakistan believes that any military conflict impacts the whole region, particularly the developing countries… There is a need to show restraint… Diplomacy cannot be ruled out.” (“Prior to PM’s Russia visit, objective of visit was explained to US, says FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi,” The News International, 26 February 2022)

Fahd Husain "Should the PM have gone to Moscow?"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
It was a tough choice. But Prime Minister Imran Khan made the right one by going to Russia...If Islamabad has been making an effort to build a healthy relationship with Moscow, it is being reciprocated.

Ayesha Ijaz Khan "The Russia visit"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
Although nothing has been gained from the visit, it has, in Western capitals, reaffirmed the view that Pakistan’s foreign policy is adrift.

Pervez Hoodbhoy "Balochistan: the foreign hand?"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
Forcibly disappearing Baloch students won’t eliminate terrorism but will weaken the federation of Pakistan

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob "Diluting electoral credibility"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
The ordinance amending the election law violates the spirit of democracy.

"Highest deficit"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
Each time the external account comes under pressure, the authorities introduce piecemeal emergency measures, such as restrictions on imports. These actions may be work temporarily but are not a durable solution to the problem

"CII on blasphemy"
Dawn, 26 February 2022
In any case, the government should not look to the CII for remedies. More often not, the body has issued extremely controversial statements in the past.

Iftikhar Durrani, “The education paradox”
The News International, 26 February 2022
While the SNC is currently in its infancy, and experts are still in the process of implementing it holistically across different levels, we must also highlight the issue of outdated teaching methods that has contributed to the deteriorating education quality in Pakistan.

Atta-ur-Rahman “Higher education turmoil”
The News International, 26 February 2022
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) needs a new visionary chairperson who strictly abides with the law and who can restore the respect and admiration that it enjoyed in the first decade of its existence.

“Time to rethink PECA”
The News International, 26 February 2022
While hate speech and incitement to violence should always be checked by law, PECA in its current form and with the amendment is not the answer to this challenge.

“Protesting farmers”
The Express Tribune, 26 February 2022
What matters is that food has become unaffordable, and yet, farming has become unprofitable. As the protesters warned, this is a national food security crisis in the making.

In Brief
EXTERNAL
PM Khan meets with President Putin
On 24 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan met with President Vladimir Putin during his two-day official visit to Russia. During the meeting, PM Khan reaffirmed the importance of the Pakistan Stream gas pipeline as a flagship economic project between the two countries. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said that the two leaders held wide-ranging consultations on bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. The statement said, “The prime minister underscored Pakistan’s commitment to [forging] a long-term, multi-dimensional relationship with Russia,” adding, “Recalling the telephone conversations during the recent months between the two leaders, the prime minister expressed confidence that the positive trajectory of bilateral relations will continue to move forward in the future.” (Naveed Siddiqui, “Energy cooperation in focus during PM Imran's meeting with Russian President Putin,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

FM Qureshi meet with FM Lavrov
On 24 February, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Russian Foreign Minister Surgey Lavrov on the sidelines of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Russian visit. During the meeting, they discussed mutual interests. FM Qureshi emphasised that Pakistan-Russia ties had strengthened and accorded special importance to bilateral relations with Russia. (“Qureshi, Lavrov discuss bilateral ties,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

POLITICS
Zardari meets Siraj, NA speaker meets Moonis
On 24 February, Asif Ali Zardari met with Jamaat-i-Islami Emir Sirajul Haq. According to a JI press release, Sirajul and Zardari agreed that the masses were heavily affected due to the inflation and unemployment caused by the PTI’s incompetence and ill-conceived policies.
Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser called on PML-Q’s federal minister Moonis Elahi. Moonis in a tweet said, “Speaker National Assembly @AsadQaiserPTI sb called me and we discussed current situation. I told him that political discussions and consultations are going on. This does not mean any decision has been taken. We are bound to our commitments and will honor them fully.” (Zulqernain Tahir, Ahmad Fraz Khan “Indecision on snap polls a hurdle to no-trust move,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

INTERNAL
SC disposes of AQ Khan’s plea for being infructuous
On 25 February, Dawn reported that a three-judge Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial disposed of a plea instituted Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan seeking enforcement of his fundamental rights, including free movement. This decision came four months after his death. (Nasir Iqbal “Supreme Court disposes of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan’s plea for being infructuous,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

Noor Muqadam ‘s murderer given death penalty
On 24 February, Additional Sessions Judge Atta Rabbani issued a short order according to which Zahir Jaffer had been sentenced to death under Section 302(b) (premeditated murder) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). The court also sentenced 10 years of sentence to his employees, watchman Muhammad Iftikhar and gardener Muhammad Jan. Shaukat Mukadam, Noor’s father thanked the media and judiciary for bringing justice to the act. (Hasnaat Malik, “Zahir Jaffer awarded death sentence in Noor murder case,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022)

PIA hopes to get clearance from the EU
On 24 February, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) CEO Arshad Malik stated, “International auditors may complete the audit of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PIA by next month,” adding, “We are very much hopeful that the EU ban on PIA will be lifted in the wake of this audit.” Further, he said, “We have also started flights to [Syrian capital] Damascus after 22 years. We have also started flights for Malaysia and Iraq and from next month for [Azerbaijan’s capital] Baku and preparations are under way to launch direct flights to and from Australia for the first time.” (“PIA chief hopes EU will lift ban next month,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Eight terrorists killed in Waziristan
On 24 February, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that security forces carried out the operation in the “general area” of Hamzoni in North Waziristan tribal district in wake of reports about the presence of terrorists. In the exchange of fire six miscreants were killed, the statement read. (“Eight terrorists killed in two operations, says ISPR,” Dawn, 25 April 2022)

ON AURAT MARCH
Ujrat, Tahafuz, aur Sukoon are the demands for this year's agenda of Aurat March
On 24 February, the organizers of the Aurat March Karachi, 2022 presented a 17-point charter of demands under the theme “Ujrat, Tahafuz, aur Sukoon” [Wage, Security and Peace] at a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club. The charter read as: “The work of caregiving and of emotional labour shall not be treated as free. We demand social security for all our labour that adds value to both the economy and society. Our labour will not be free anymore. The labour we do to maintain life for others is our own. And, thus, we have the right to consent to work and to say no to forced labor. We also assert the right to say no if we are tired of working. We have a right to say no when we don't want to work for free or under exploitative, subhuman conditions.” (“Aurat March organisers demand social security, implementation of minimum wages,” The News International, 25 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
IHC resumed hearing on petitions to check abuse of power under Peca
On 25 February, Dawn reported that the Islamabad High Court (IHC) resumed hearing on petitions filed by the PML-N, PPP, journalists’ representative bodies and former senator Farhatullah Babar challenging amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (Peca). IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah stated that the Peca is a draconian law and said that political parties should not have invoked the jurisdiction of the court since they could decide such issues within parliament. (Malik Asad, “‘Remorseful’ govt seeks time to check abuse of power under Peca,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Regulatory cover approved for barter trade of Pakistan with Afghanistan and Iran
On 24 February Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) cleared the hurdles of barter trade between Pakistan and its two western neighbours. Provisions in Export Policy Order (EPO) 2020 and Import Policy Order (IPO) 2020 were amended to clear the way for the mechanism to work. Chambers of commerce were roped in from provinces of Pakistan and Iran to establish the code for trade, a similar scheme was applied for Afghanistan. Also on the same day, the ECC decided to build 500,000 tonnes of strategic reserves of sugar and lift 1.2 million tonnes of wheat at a minimum support price of PKR 1,950 per 40kg amounting to PKR 65 billion. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ECC clears legal mechanism for barter trade with Iran, Afghanistan,” Dawn, 25 April 2022)

SBP monthly report indicates dwindling current account deficit
On 24 February, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released its monthly balance of payments (BOP) data. The data showed that Pakistan’s monthly current account deficit (CAD) hit an all-time high of USD 2.55 billion. An increase in imports along with volatile oil prices and intact flow of remittances have put the efforts of the government in vain to stabilize CAD. Despite the approximate increase of approx. 25 per cent improvements in exports the CAD gap has been widening. The trade deficit during July-Jan of FY22 stands at USD 27 billion. The forex reserve stood at USD 16.8 billion. Pakistan paid more than double in the second quarter of the current fiscal as external debt servicing compared to the first quarter FY22 indicated the data. (Shahid Iqbal, “Current account deficit hits all-time high in January,” Dawn, 25 April 2022)

Government clear-headed on putting the economy on right path
On 24 February, while addressing the seminar ‘Investment, Industrialisation, and Exports: Harmonising Sectoral Efforts for Growth’, Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin said: “Our current year’s economic growth will also touch the five per cent mark that depicts we are on the trajectory of sustainable growth,”. He emphasized the government’s intent on rectifying the past government’s wrong economic policies, which put the country’s economy on the verge of collapse. (“Govt’s endeavours set to turn economy around: Tarin,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022)

US authorities fine National Bank of Pakistan worth USD 55 million
On 24 February, the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) announced a USD 20.4m penalty against the bank for anti-money laundering violations. This was the second fine after New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), which imposed a penalty of USD 35 million for "repeated compliance failures." The NBP has been alleged to be involved in anti-money laundering violations, compliance failures. The press release from FRB said: “These continued failures (risk management and compliance programmes) revealed that the branch’s senior management were unwilling or unable to promote a culture of compliance, adequate resources were not provided for compliance programmes, and the bank failed to adequately supervise the branch by allowing problems to worsen year after year. The conditions at the branch demonstrated severe weaknesses, and unsafe, unsound conditions requiring urgent restructuring.” (“NBP fined $55m by US authorities for anti-money laundering violations, compliance failures,” Dawn, 25 April 2022)

ON UKRAINE
The US has not learned from the Vietnam war, says President Alvi
On 25 February, Dawn reported that President Dr Arif Alvi on the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine stated that the United States had not learnt from the past and “fell into another trap.” He said, “I mistakenly believed that the US would have learned a lesson from the Vietnam War and would not fall into another trap.” (“US has not learned from Vietnam, says President Alvi,” Dawn, 25 February 2022)

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Ukraine Dr Noel Israel Khokhar said that the government was working to ensure the safe evacuation of all Pakistani nationals stranded in Ukraine. According to reports, 1,500 Pakistanis, including 500 students, who are residing in Ukraine have been asked to relocate to safer regions. (“Govt working to evacuate Pakistanis stranded in Ukraine: ambassador,” The News International, 25 February 2022)

“Ukraine Invasion”
Dawn, 25 February 2022
Unless speedy efforts at de-escalation are made, the crisis in Ukraine has the potential to morph into a catastrophic conflict that will consume Europe. With regard to Pakistan’s position in this conflict, Imran Khan is the first world leader to meet Mr Putin in the aftermath of the invasion.

“Verdict delivered”
Dawn, 25 February 2022
One of the most closely watched murder trials in Pakistan’s recent history has ended and, given the circumstances of the gruesome case, the verdict is largely what many hoped for.

“Tree plantation drive”
Dawn, 25 February 2022
Another spring and monsoon tree plantation drive has kicked off in a number of cities in continuation of the federal government’s flagship 10 Billion Tree Tsunami project.

“Protesting farmers”
The Express Tribune, 25 February 2022
Chief among their complaints are the massive recent fuel price hike and the unavailability of fertiliser. Other concerns cited include higher prices for electricity, compost, and various farming-related inputs.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, “Diluting electoral credibility”
Dawn, 25 February 2022
It is distressing to see the federal government legislating by presidential decree to the total exclusion of any consultative process both within and outside parliament

Dr Nadia Tahir, “Understanding SBP autonomy”
Dawn, 25 February 2022
State Bank autonomy is a topic that needs serious discussion rather than judgments passed out of context. Should there be reform in order to access loans from donors or the Extended Fund Facility from the IMF? The answer is that essential reform must take place without pressure of any kind.

Zubeida Mustafa, “Language Day”
It is the duty of the state as well as the people to promote a sense of ownership of all languages and take measures to develop them. The most harmful is the lack of sensitivity shown by the powers that be, commercial interests, the people themselves, and school systems towards mother languages

In Brief
EXTERNAL
PM Khan set to meet President Putin during a two-day official visit
On 24 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Moscow on a two-day official visit. On his arrival he was welcomed by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. He is expected to meet President Vladimir Putin on 24 February. PM Khan’s visit to Russia comes after Nawaz Sharif’s visit in March 1999, after which there was no Pakistani premier that visited Russia. (Adil Shahzeb, “Set to meet Putin, PM Imran walks a tightrope,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

POLITICS
Timing of the no-confidence motion will be jointly decided by the opposition, says PML-N
On 23 February, PML-N Information Secretary Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the decision for the timing of the no-confidence motion against the government would be jointly decided by the opposition and the PDM. She added that the opposition was hopeful of emerging victorious in the parliamentary battle to oust the government “because our goal is based on honesty and to rid the people of inflation caused by the incompetent government.” (“Timing of no-trust move to be decided after consensus, says PML-N's Marriyum Aurangzeb,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Senate Standing Committee discusses measures to discourage out-of-court settlements in rape cases
On 23 February, the Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice discussed measures to discourage out-of-court settlement in rape cases. During the meeting, the committee’s chairman Senator Syed Ali Zafar stated that even if the cases were investigated and prosecuted properly, the witnesses and victims were forced to compromise either by force, influence or through settlements against monetary benefits. He said, “Suggestions must be made to counter this menace,” adding, “it is the constitutional, legal, moral, ethical and fundamental duty of the state to provide security, safety and protection to all its citizens and particularly to those who are most vulnerable like women and children.” (Malik Asad, “Senate body deliberates upon ways to discourage settlements in rape cases,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

Lahore witnesses political huddle of the year
On 22 February, the opposition confirmed their consensus on the no-confidence motion in Lahore. Separately there was some communication established between PML-Q, an ally of the ruling government, and PML-N and PPP. A statement released by PDM and PPP said: The PPP, the PML-N, the PDM leaders have formed a committee comprising all opposition parties to determine the political and legal strategy and the timing of no-confidence motion against Imran Khan,”. PML-Q leader Chaudhary Parvez Elahi also met with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. (Rameez Khan, “Opposition in fresh bid to rope in PML-Q,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022)

NEPRA postpones additional power demanded by discos
On 23 February, during a public hearing NEPRA chairman Tauseef. H. Farooqi asked the discos to resubmit the data on the basis of which the discos sought an additional charge of 28 paise per unit. This is the second time NEPRA has postponed the demands of discos. The net amount of PKR 28 billion was asked on account of quarterly tariff variation in the power purchase price, capacity charges, variable operation and maintenance costs, use of system charges and the impact of transmission. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Nepra delays passing on Rs28bn extra burden to consumers,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: 19-member committee formed to finalise new local govt law
On 23 February, a 19-member committee including 10 members from the ruling PPP and nine from five opposition parties in the house was formed to deliberate on the Sindh Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2022 “to make the new local bodies set-up in line with Article 140-A of the Constitution in the light of the Supreme Court’s direction.” Following the consensus on the members of the committee LG Minister Nasir Shah introduced the Sindh Local Government Bill 2022 and the Sindh Law (Amendment) Bill, 2022 which were sent to select committee with directives to report back within 45 days. (Tahir Siddiqui, “Sindh Assembly select committee formed to finalise new local govt law,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

Balochistan: 10 terrorists killed in Hoshab area
On 23 February, 10 terrorists were killed after security forces conducted an operation in the province's Hoshab area. According to the ISPR, security forces has conducted an operation to “apprehend externally sponsored enemies of peace in Balochistan,” adding, “Once the troops started cordoning [off] the area, [the] terrorists tried to flee their hideout and opened indiscriminate fire whereby a heavy exchange of fire ensued.” (Naveed Siddiqui, “10 terrorists killed in Balochistan operation to apprehend ‘externally sponsored enemies’: ISPR,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
SHC directs authorities to inform families of ‘state-enforced disappearance’ victims
On 24 February, Dawn reported that the Sindh High Court directed the provincial authorities to inform it about the compensation policy for the families of missing persons till 10 March. Further, the court also directed the federal and provincial law officers to assist the court in cases where the family heads had gone missing and families were suffering due to financial constraints. (“Compensation to families of seven ‘state enforced disappearance’ victims sought,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

IHC dismissed petitions seeking Zardari’s disqualification
On 23 February, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) dismissed the petitions seeking disqualification of former president Asif Ali Zardari and the information minister. The court ruled that seeking the disqualification of the elected representative through courts was not advisable as it was prone to a miscarriage of justice. (“Petitions seeking Zardari’s disqualification dismissed,” Dawn, 24 February 2022)

CJP Bandial kickstarts his judicial reforms
On 24 February, a national daily reported that Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Umar Ata Bandial has initiated his ambitious reforms in the judiciary to provide speedy and inexpensive justice. He has overhauled the Case Management System which will now contain a provision of speeding up legal cases. He has ensured that the next CJ, Justice Qazi Faez Isa is included in important consideration of the court. Justice Isa has been given administrative duties along with that important cases are to be assigned to him which was not the case in the past. Justice Qazi Faez Esa has been appointed administrative judge of the Supreme Court research centre affairs. The supreme judicial council has also been overhauled. (“CJ initiates reforms for swift, inexpensive justice,” The News International, 24 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Government has borrowed 80 per cent of more external during the first seven months of this year
On 23 February, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MEA) released its monthly report on foreign inflows. The data showed that the government received total external loans and grants of USD 12.02 billion in the first seven months of the current fiscal year 2021-22 against USD 6.66 billion received in the same period of the last financial year 2020-21. The double amount was due to coincidence of approval of fourth tranche from IMF during the current financial year. USD 2.6 billion were obtained through commercial loans, USD 196 million from bilateral creditors, USD three billion from Saud Arabia, USD 3.329 billion from multilateral creditors. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan gets $12.02 bn loans, grants in seven months,” The News International, 24 February 2022)

China-centric strategy framed to achieve a growth rate of 6 per cent
On 23 February, the planning commission finalized a three-year economic growth strategy that aims at increasing per capita income to USD 2,100. The China-centric has put special emphasis on sectors with a competitive advantage. The sectors focused on are the industrial sector, services sector and agricultural sector. However, there were ministry-based differences in framing the strategy between Ministry of Planning and Development and the Ministry of Finance. The government has reduced the five-year planning to three-year plans in order to cater to fast-evolving global economic developments. (Shahbaz Rana, “6% growth rate by 2025 targeted,” The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022) 

“In choppy seas”
Dawn, 24 February 2022
It is difficult to say who, the PTI or the combined opposition, enjoys the support of the majority of the lawmakers in the National Assembly, but it is clear that Mr Khan is skating on thin ice at the moment.

“Peca amendment”
Dawn, 24 February 2022
A paranoid dispensation is leaving no stone unturned to muzzle any critical voice against it. However, the path it has taken is likely to boomerang, as inevitably does all legislation that goes against constitutionally protected rights.

“Need for tax courts”
The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022
Over Rs3.3 trillion worth of tax revenue claims in 90,000 different cases are tied up in litigation, according to FBR. There is also the problem of how the tax law court is structured.

“Success on polio front”
The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022
It is a milestone achievement for the country especially in a year in which it had to tackle the coronavirus pandemic too. Polio workers deserve a special mention here as they risked their lives in pursuit of the cause.

“Look East reoriented”
The Express Tribune, 24 February 2022
Prime Minister Imran Khan has exhibited Pakistan’s priority for regional integration. He set the tone of foreign policy, before his landmark visit to Russia, by saying Islamabad will desist from being part of any camp in realpolitik, and will be an equal partner in peace and development.

“Challenges in ex-Fata”
The News International, 24 February 2022
Development work in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) has suffered massively – first because of the war on terror and then due to a lack of funds allocated to it.

“From bad to worse”
Dawn, 24 February 2022
In a shocking move, the government has dropped all pretence of respecting constitutional rights and democratic processes by introducing a presidential ordinance to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016.

“Limited or empowered LGs?”
Dawn, 24 February 2022
Local governments need to be protected against encroachments designed to weaken them as effective institutions of representation.

“Governance, transparency and rule of law”
The News International, 24 February 2022
Transparency and rule of law are the guiding principles of good governance. International Organisations have placed transparency and rule of law at the highest pedestal in their definitions of good governance. Therefore, all civilised governments around the world adhere to these principles.

In Brief
Internal
Media's JAC stage a walkout in meeting with officials of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
On 21 February, the media's Joint Action Committee (JAC) called out the meeting with officials as farce. JAC member Shahzada Zulfiqar alleged that the government had acted unanimously without the consent of the press body after passing the PECA (Amendment) 2022. Later a statement released by JAC Saud, "There is a grave trail of examples where the ministry of information is tampering with freedom of speech, muzzling the journalists' right to report, financially crippling media to influence journalism." Post the walkout, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) endorsed their position, announcing, "HRCP stands in solidarity with media for freedom of expression." (Amir Wasim, "Journalist bodies walk out on govt over bid to mute dissent," Dawn, 22 February 2022)

IHC Chief Justice questions the ATA and PECA procedure applied in FIR against Mohsin Baig
On 21 February, while hearing the petitions filed by media personality Mohsin Jameel Baig and his spouse against the registration of FIRs against Mr Baig under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), the Chief Justice issued a show-cause notice to Federal Investigation Agency's cybercrime wing director for "wrongly" invoking Peca sections. The court order stated: "It has been consistently observed and emphasised by the Court that criminalising defamation has profound consequences for democratic values and free speech. Many states across the globe have decriminalised defamation because of its chilling effects on free speech and democratic accountability". (Malik Asad, "IHC lambasts FIA for citing wrong sections of cyber law," Dawn, 22 February 2022)

Around USD 6.7 billion money of Pakistani stashed in Credit Sussie
On 21 February, after a German newspaper leaked the data worth USD 100 billion of hidden wealth on Sunday, it was learnt on Monday that around 1400 Pakistanis had their name on the list, which was leaked. On average, each Pakistani has over Rs841.3 million in his account. The list naming high-risk clients also observed the transfer of money from Pakistan when the NAB was investigating corruption charges against those individuals. Reacting to the leak Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry tweeted: "The story of Panama, Pandora and now the Suisse accounts is – first steal money and then launder it abroad. Corruption and money laundering are the biggest problems of countries like Pakistan. Imran Khan has continuously been raising his voice on this issue asking rich countries to stop this exploitation of the poor countries. Now all money launderers are joining their forces." ("1,400 Pakistanis having accounts?," Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

PM asks the Opposition not to fear anymore
On 21 February, while launching the "national e-commerce portal" Prime Minister Imran Khan said there was potential in Pakistan to achieve USD 50 billion in IT exports which might as well reduce the fiscal deficit. Convinced about the country not defaulting anytime soon, he said the expression of 'not to fear'. Recently Pakistan launched its own public owned online payment platform 'Raast'. (Zaheer Abbasi, " 'National e-commerce portal' launched," Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

ECP concerned at the new clause in Elections (Amendment) Ordinance 2022
On 21 February, the ECP officials and officials from its legal branch met Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Khalid Javed Khan to convey the electoral body's concerns on the recently promulgated ordinance. The meeting remained inclusive; the main cause of concern is allowing the public office-holders to visit any area where an election is scheduled. Last year ECP had directed the PM not to visit Peshawar for a rally as the elections were in process. The ordinance will compromise the fairness/transparency of the electoral process, ECP officials conveyed. (Sardar Sikander Shaheen, "Govt dismisses concerns of ECP," Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

The Establishment has turned neutral: Yusuf Raza Gilani
On 21 February, Leader of the Opposition in Senate Yusuf Raza Gilani while addressing press conference at central Punjab secretariat of the party said that the establishment was no longer partisan of government and sought extensive participation of workers in PPPs' long march against inflation and misgovernance. ("‘Establishment’ no longer partisan of govt: Gilani,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

Provinces
Punjab: LCCI trade delegation visit to Iran
On 21 February, Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) spokesperson shared the details of the recently concluded visit by LCCI trade delegation to Iran. The spokesperson indicated that meeting helped in unfurling new areas of cooperation, joint venture and investment other than bilateral trade. LCCI President Mian Nauman Kabir mentioned that Iran is closest to their hearts and said: “We take Iran as an important neighbouring country and a potential trading partner. We have been maintaining strong cultural and diplomatic relations with Iran.” (“Iran is very close to our hearts: LCCI president,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

Punjab: Mother language day sees demand for Punjabi as the official language in Lahore
On 21 February, also celebrated as Mother Language Day, Punjab Lok Sangat and other organisations organized a rally and demanded that Punjabi be made the official language in Punjab province. There was a demand for teaching Punjabi in all divisions of school education as a compulsory language. The slogans used during the rally were “Sada Haq Aithay Rakh, Chan Punjabi Dhol Punjabi Bol Punjabi Bol Punjabi”. The speakers said that Punjabi language is the flag bearer of culture and heritage of Punjab. (Shoaib Ahmed, “Rally demands Punjabi as official language of province,” Dawn, 22 February 2022)

Sindh: E-tagging of hardened criminals on the cards
On 21 February, taking cognizance of increasing street crimes in Karachi, CM Syed Murad Ali Shah declared that the provincial government will bring a legislation on electronic tagging (E-tagging) of criminals involved in repeated crime. He said: “I want electronic tagging of such criminals to be made so that close eye could be kept on them.” The Electronic tagging is a system in which a criminal or suspected criminal has an electronic device attached to them which enables the police to know if they leave a particular area. (“Hardened criminals: Sindh govt decides to introduce electronic-tagging bill,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

Economy
132 power grid stations declared unsecure
On 21 February, a national reported from the booklet “Security and Protection of Key Point- 2020” showed that 132 grid stations of Karachi Electric (KE), NTDC and Distribution Companies (Discos) have been declared vulnerable in the current security environment across the country. The major observations were, first, overall unsatisfactory security measure in grid stations, second, security arrangements with respect to tools and security gadget is insufficient, third, absence of vetting of employees, fourth, residential colonies around the grid stations require iron fenced boundary walls. (Mushtaq Ghumman, “132 grid stations declared ‘vulnerable’,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

Federal cabinet gives one time umbrella permission to MoF to raise loans from world capital markets
On 21 February, under the “Global Medium-Term Note (GMTN) Programmes” federal cabinet allowed the ministry of finance to raise commercial loans from international capital markets through Eurobonds and Sukuks. The time-consuming standalone transactions were not sufficient to maintain forex reserve and exchange rate stability and hence the umbrella approval was given. However, the Minister for Law and Justice termed “umbrella approval” as legally untenable. (Mushtaq Ghumman, “MoF given one-time umbrella permission,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

HEC receives a higher bid than the reserve price in the first privatization bidding
On 21 February, Privatisation Commission on Monday held a bidding for Heavy Electrical Complex (HEC), a government-controlled entity that is crucial in innovation and science research in the country. IMS engineering placed a bid highest price per share at PKR 99.999 and vouched for 96.6 per cent shares of the entity. However, the bidding was conducted without the approval from the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation (CCoP) The government has committed with IMF that it had advanced plans to privatise two power plants using regasified LNG and two small public banks and complete the process by the end of June 2022, with proceeds to be channelled to debt reduction and poverty alleviation programmes. (Wasim Iqbal, “PC holds bidding of HEC ‘sans CCoP nod’,” Business Recorder, 22 February 2022)

External
PM’s Russia’s schedule announced
On 22 February, the Foreign Office (FO) announced the schedule for PM ‘official visit’ to Russia. The statement from the FO mentioned reviewing bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and regional and global issues. The FO said that Afghanistan and Islamophobia are two likely issues to be discussed. Meanwhile, in a balancing act, Pakistan’s Ambassador retired Major Gen Noel Israel Khokhar met with Ukraine’s First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Emine Dzheppar and expressed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “PM Imran looking to reinvigorate ties during Russia trip,” Dawn, 22 February 2022)
 

“Killing free speech”
Dawn, 22 February 2022
The amendment is a crude attempt by the PTI government to browbeat its opponents and it must not be allowed get away with it. The opposition, media, civil society, and all segments of the citizenry must exercise their democratic rights to oppose this ordinance and ensure that it is rolled back.
 
“Regional trade”
Dawn, 22 February 2022
That intraregional trade in South Asia is among the lowest. There’s growing realization across the region that stronger trade ties and mutual economic dependence can over time build an environment of mutual trust, and help neighbors settle their political and territorial disputes in an amicable manner.
 
“Unsafe city”
Dawn, 22 February 2022
An epidemic of street crime has afflicted Karachi, but other than issuing statements, the authorities seem helpless as armed thugs loot and pillage across the city. In a city where a large number of policemen and Ranger’s personnel are available, it is difficult to understand how armed criminals manage to rule the streets. 
 
“Plight of mine workers”
The Express Tribune, 22 February 2022
Inside a majority of mines, there is no proper warning equipment to caution workers to leave the mine in the event of a gas leak or flooding. Mineworkers are not covered by health insurance; mostly, they get insufficient compensation in case of death and injury.
 
“Cost of power generation”
The Express Tribune, 22 February 2022
The average cost of fuel used for electricity production doubled last month compared to Jan 2021, raising serious inflationary concerns among commercial and residential consumers alike.
 
Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, “Delicate balancing act”
Dawn, 22 February 2022
Pakistan must maintain good relations with both China and the US, no matter how delicate this balancing act may appear to be. Not maintaining a balance and creating an enemy out of one or the other could be costly for Pakistan.
 
Dr Niaz Murtaza, “Economic Stability”
Dawn, 22 February 2022
Economists know regimes can manipulate fiscal, monetary and external stimuli to achieve short-term growth that soon busts. Thus, they review macroeconomic stability too: a mix of low external/fiscal deficits, high employment and GDP growth, low inflation, a stable market-based exchange rate, and high foreign reserves.
 
Muhammad Hamid Zaman, “The invisible heroes”
The Express Tribune, 22 February 2022
Pakistan has had a whole year without a single incident of wild polio is quite remarkable. Too many of the frontline workers were shot dead and abducted by terrorists. Others, who survived, often waited endlessly to be paid their wages by the government. 
 
Sadaf Khan, “PECA, the powerful, and the petty”
The News International, 22 February 2022
An amendment in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, PECA (2016) was long expected, but that the amendment has been brought in through an ordinance is an indication of the desperation with which the government wants to keep other parliamentary parties away from any discourse on a law that has direct implications on political speech.
 

In Brief
INTERNAL
Zardari and Fazl to meet as part of the PPP-PDM alliance
On 21 February, the two-party leaders will meet for the first time since the PPP's withdrawal from the PDM. Even though practically all of the major opposition parties are on board with bringing a motion of no confidence, the roadmap has yet to be finalized. The conference is expected to focus on the procedure for a no-confidence resolution, which is expected to be filed by opposition parties in the near future. (“PPP-PDM ties Zardari, Fazl set to meet today,” The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022)
 
Journalists and political parties have slammed the government
On 20 February, the government's renewed effort to regulate social media and change election laws through presidential ordinances drew intense condemnation from opposition parties, as well as various media and journalist organizations, who called it yet another "blatant" move by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to stifle citizens' constitutional freedoms and silence dissenting voices. The media and journalist organizations said that they will not only seek legal action, but also create a protest movement, in response to what they say is the latest government step aimed at curtailing media independence. (Malik Asad, “Defamation amendment goes against decisions of courts,” Dawn, 21 February 2022)
 
Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act promulgated
On 21 February, President Arif Alvi's Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act Ordinance 2022 is likely to result in circumstances against 'controversial' social media content, as it not only makes online defamation a non-bailable, cognizable offence but also broadens the scope of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Another addition to Peca Section 44 establishes a six-month deadline for the trial's conclusion and requests that the high court appoint a judge under Peca. (Amir Wasim, “Govt faces backlash from journalists, political parties,” Dawn, 21 February 2022)
 
Projects totalling millions of dollars approved for Islamabad
On 21 February, the Development Working Party of the Capital Development Authority has accepted the project concept (PC-1) for a new traffic management solution project on Kashmir Chowk, Murree Road, valued Rs1,385 million. The CDA also gave its approval to the PC-2, which will cost Rs70 million and will be used for surveying, development, and zone planning. The project's goal is to keep Islamabad's planning and estate management in good shape. This technology will also aid in the efficiency and reliability of CDA's internal departmental facilities. By completing the project, the CDA will increase its self-reliance in terms of physical development, land acquisition, and facilities. (“CDA approves uplift projects worth millions,” The Express Tribune, 22 February 2022)
 
PROVINCES
Sindh: New police unit to protect minorities in the worship places
On 20 February, the Sindh police have decided to establish a special unit for the security of minority community houses of worship across the province, with armed troops present 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is adopted to increase the size of the police force, create specific wings for certain law enforcement-related occupations, and fill gaps in certain sectors of traditional policing. (Imran Ayub, “New police unit to protect worship places of minorities in Sindh,” Dawn, 21 February 2022)
 
Punjab: The government intends to combat drug abuse
On 21 February, Dawn reported that the Punjab government plans to launch a "Save a Life" campaign in Lahore by March 15 in order to protect adolescents from drug addiction and involve them in healthy behaviours. According to the report compiled by Social Welfare and Baitul Mal Department, drug usage can result in reduced economic opportunities, jail, addiction, and death. These effects have a huge societal cost. Younger children today have easier access to drugs than in the past, and a greater number of them report they know people who use illegal substances. (Khalid Husnain, “Punjab plans to tackle drug addiction in youth,” Dawn, 21 February 2022)
 
KP: For the second phase of the KP LG elections, a huge number of candidates have filed papers
On 21 February, Dawn reported that in18 districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a total of 32,839 candidates have filed nomination papers with returning officers to run in the second phase of local body polls, which will take place on 31 March. Candidates for mayor and chairman of city and tehsil councils, as well as various seats on village and district councils, including general, youth, peasants, women, and non-Muslims, have filed candidacy papers. Local body elections will be held in 65 cities and tehsil councils, as well as 1,830 village and community councils, in 18 districts across the province in the second round. (Mohammad Ashfaq, “Over 32,000 file papers for second phase of KP LG polls,” Dawn, 21 February 2022)
 
Balochistan: Lack of implementation of Gwadar Pact has resulted in JI protesting
On 20 February, Thousands of Jamaat-i-Islami activists and sympathizers staged a sit-in protest in front of the Quetta Press Club, protesting the government's failure to implement a deal struck with Maulana Hidayat-Ur-Rehman and other leaders of the Gwadar Ko Haq Do campaign. Activists claimed that it was great injustice to the people of Balochistan that they were unable to use the coast and resources of their province. (Saleem Shahid, “JI workers protest in Quetta as govt yet to implement Gwadar pact,” Dawn, 22 February 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
The Saudi crown prince to visit Pakistan in March
On 21 February, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to finalize the dates for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's long-awaited visit to Islamabad, which is expected to take place in March. He last visited Pakistan in February 2019, only days after the Pulwama terror incident. The ties were so deteriorated at one point that Pakistan had to repay a Saudi loan ahead of schedule, an uncommon occurrence in Pak-Saudi relations. (Kamran Yousaf, “Saudi crown prince likely to visit Pakistan in March,” The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022)
 

“Acquittal of Qandeel’s killer”
Dawn, 21 February 2022
Perhaps it is time for legislators to consider making deliberate murder, whether on the pretext of honour or not, a non-compoundable offence. Only then will those with money and clout be prevented from walking free after taking a life. 

“Taxing tobacco products”
Dawn, 21 February 2022
In Pakistan, tobacco claims over 170,000 lives every year — health and potential lost needlessly because of an addiction that brings even the addicts little joy. The power of the tobacco lobby globally is considerable as is the peer pressure that leads many young people to become hooked for life. 

“AGP reports on Railways”
The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022
A recent report from the Auditor General of Pakistan that the Pakistan Railways has incurred operational losses to the tune of Rs333.812 billion in nine years (2011-20) shouldn’t raise any eyebrows.

“Rising food imports”
The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022
Food imports continue to place a heavy drain on the national exchequer, with some estimates suggesting that the price tag this year will exceed $10 billion, compared to about $8 billion last year.

“The divisible pool”
The News International, 21 February 2022
Any delay or undue deductions increases the province’s budgetary backlog. It is understandable that the federal government itself is cash-strapped because of the pressure from the IMF, but it needs to refocus its resources in a more creative manner.

Maleeha Lodhi, “Season of political realignments”
Dawn, 21 February 2022
If the narratives of both sides (ruling and opposition) remain unchanged it will strengthen the public impression that politics is just a power struggle between them, disconnected from issues that affect them and the country’s future.

Umair Javed, “An elevated disaster”
Dawn, 21 February 2022
One of the major concerns related to local government systems in Pakistan is the usurpation of municipal planning by provincial government entities such as development authorities. Provinces are reluctant to devolve power, and instead rely on cities as a way of extracting financial surpluses or distributing preferential patronage.

Huma Yusuf, “March for justice”
Dawn, 21 February 2022
Whether they like it or not, they are out of their homes: in fast-growing cities, soaring inflation means dual-income households are a necessity; in climate change-struck agricultural heartlands, women have to search farther afield for water, and worker longer hours and erratic seasons in the fields.

Kamal Siddiqi, “Worsening crime scene in Karachi”
The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022
According to local media, more than 50,000 incidents of street crime were reported in Karachi during the first eight months of 2021. Most of these incidents involved motorcycle snatching, mobile phone snatching and car theft.

Ishtiaq Ali Mehkri, “Muster political will to trade across borders”
The Express Tribune, 21 February 2022
It’s time to focus on regional trade. By 2050, China and India will be 20 and 15 per cent of the global economy, respectively. With a demographic growth at 2.5 per cent, Pakistan will have 380 million people by the middle of the century, needing around 2 million jobs a year.
Abdul Jalil, “A revolution of our own”

The News International, 21 February 2022
Pakistan should move towards an optimal laissez-faire economic model. The state should only play the role of a facilitator and arbiter. Tax reforms and other incentives ought to be introduced to entice foreign investors

In Brief
INTERNAL
All requirements for exiting the grey list of FATF met, says the foreign office
On 18 February, the foreign office said that Pakistan had fully complied with FATF requirements for exiting its ‘grey list’. It further said that political inclinations and interests could only keep Pakistan on grey list. FATF plenary meetings are to be held from 21 February to 4 March. Out of 27 action items, Pakistan had completed 26 of them by October last year, and additional action items containing seven items was given in June 2021 regarding loopholes in money laundering. FO spokesperson Asim Iftikhar in response to question on terrorism in Balochistan said, “There is a track record of terrorists getting support from abroad and we are fully aware of that and we will take all necessary steps to bring this cross-border terrorism to a stop.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Only politics can keep Pakistan on FATF grey list: Foreign Office,” Dawn, 19 February 2022)
 
PIA to resume flights to GB areas
On 18 February, a PIA spokesman said that to promote tourism supplemented by good weather has provided opportunity to resume flights. Earlier PIA had planned direct flights to Sydney and resumed flights to Azerbaijan in order to convert the turnover in profitable margin. The flights to GB areas will be from Lahore and Karachi from 3 March. (“PIA to resume Gilgit, Skardu flights on 3 March,” Dawn, 19 February 2022)
 
JUI-F organizes Hijab March in capital
On 18 February, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl organized a hijab march in expressing solidarity with Muskan Khan who resisted her school boys in their anti-hijab sloganeering in India. Further the participants warned that they would stop the Aurat March in Pakistan with sticks as they are spreading indecency in the name of women’s rights. The march was held from D-chowk to the parliament house. (Haseeb Hanif, “JUI-F warns it will stop Aurat March with sticks,” The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022)
 
PM takes a dig at opposition and PDM
On 18 February, while addressing a rally in Islamabad PM challenged the opposition with no-trust motion and added that PTI will come back to power in 2023. He compared the JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman with a twelfth man in a cricket squad who comes as a substitute fielding player. PM further added that nobody can buy Imran Khan and he had proved himself to be Sadiq and Ameen. PM confessed that the biggest mistake of PTI was to let go of Nawaz Sharif and called the PML-N chief, Shehbaz Sharif, a faint-hearted man. (Rizwan Shehzad, “Allowing Nawaz to go abroad was the biggest mistake, admits PM Imran,” The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022)
 
PROVINCES
Punjab: Loopholes start to emerge in Sehat card scheme
On 18 February, a national daily wrote a summary report on the implementation and efficiency of the Sehat card in Punjab province. The Sehat card is placing public hospitals at a disadvantage and private hospitals are reaping the benefits while common people are the ones on receiving end. 80 per cent of the hospitals are from the private sector and there is already a nexus developing between the mafia and the private medical sector, including test labs, pharmacies and consultants. The beneficiaries are as well not informed clearly about the procedure and operators credentials which will impact the quality of medical services in the province. (Asif Chaudhary, “Sehat Cards’ efficacy in question as loopholes emerge,” Dawn, 19 February 2022)
 
KP: Political parties on backfoot as independent emerge in KP LG elections: Report
On 18 February, Pattan, an NGO working on issues of governance and democracy shared the details of its analysis of the results of the KP LG elections (Form XXI) published on the website of the election commission of Pakistan. The report mentioned that mainstream political parties suffer from social malnutrition and could only mobilize 37 per cent of the total votes polled. Another anomaly that was mentioned in the report was an unprecedented number of rejected votes which were higher than the margin of victory in most of the examined forms. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Political Parties bag only 37 pc of votes in first phase of LG polls,” Dawn, 19 February 2022)
 
Sindh: Maritime minister to challenge Sindh governments’ claim over Bundal and Buddo islands
On 18 February, Maritime Affairs Minister Ali Zaidi said that Port Qasim Authority (PQA) will challenge the Sindh governments’ contention that the Bundal and Buddo islands were protected forests. He recalled that coordinates fell within the PQA limits when the PQA act was introduced during the tenure of Z.A. Bhutto in 1973. He stated: “The only point is that it wants to stop development of Pakistan. The provincial government itself is grabbing entire Sindh.” (Muhammad Hussain Khan, “Port Qasim Authority to challenge islands’ protected forest status in court,” Dawn, 19 February 2022)
 
ECONOMY
Draft National Electricity Plan 2022-26 envisages the merger of all energy regulators
On 18 February, a national daily reported that a joint working group is to be formulated for formulating plans for a unified energy regulator. It means NEPRA, OGRA and NEECA will be unified. National Electricity Policy identifies three overarching goals for the power sector, namely, access to affordable energy, energy security and sustainability. Petroleum Division and Power Planning & Monitoring Company (PPMC) is to be the focal point for performing the function of integrated energy planning. (Mushtaq Ghumman, “Energy regulators to be merged for better regulation,” Business Recorder, 19 February 2022)
 
Senate committee approves Banking Companies (Amendment) Bill 2021
 On 18 February, Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue has approved the Banking Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2021 while ignoring opposition from the Ministry of Finance and SBP. The bills propose a fine of PKR one million- and one-year punishment for refusal to provide banking facilities to the consumers on the ground of a politically-exposed person (PEP). The opposition from MoF and SBP was due to the fact that the amendment affects the function of the SBP and consent of PM was not sought as well. (Zaheer Abbasi, “Senate panel approves Banking Cos (Amend) Bill,” Business Recorder, 19 February 2022)
 
1800 MHz spectrum rationalized successfully
On 18 February, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has streamlined the spectrum allotted to telecom companies by rationalizing 1800 MHz. It will lead to better utilization of spectrum used by four telecom companies, Jazz, CMPak, Telenor, and Ufone. PTA stated that technical teams of telecom companies worked round the clock to rationalization without disturbing the telecom services in the nation. PTA statement said ““This will ensure efficient utilisation of contiguous spectrum holdings and better user experience, furthermore, it will be beneficial for the launch of future technologies in Pakistan.” (Usman Hanif, “PTA implements rationalisation plan,” Business Recorder, 19 February 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
PM visit to Russia to commence on 23 February
On 18 February, foreign office spokesperson confirmed that Prime Minister Imran Khan would visit to Russia next, bringing a turnaround in the relationship between the two countries. The last time PM of Pakistan visited Russia was in 1999. It is expected that the visit would focus on how to improve bilateral ties, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Progress is also expected on the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline project that the Russian company would undertake in Pakistan laying a pipeline from Karachi to Kasur. (Kamran Yousaf, “FO confirms PM’s ‘landmark’ trip to Russia,” The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022)

“Finish line in sight”
Dawn, 19 February 2022
It is heartening that since Pakistan embarked in earnest upon the polio eradication drive in the mid-1990s, it has remained steadfast in doing its part to rid the world of this scourge.

“Hostility to Aurat March”
Dawn, 19 February 2022
It is that time of year once again when defenders of the patriarchy spring into action with spurious arguments to protect the status quo. This time, Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri is leading the charge.

“Gas price disparity”
Dawn, 19 February 2022
Increasing gas prices, especially for residential users, will be a tough decision for the government to make despite parliamentary approval of the law in view of the fast-approaching elections, but it is crucial for the financial sustainability of the gas sector and for making expensive LNG imports feasible. 

“HIV breakthrough”
The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022
This success will help streamline the treatment and make it accessible and available to more people who are suffering from this deadly virus in the near future.

“The new US realization”
The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022
The realization in Washington that Islamabad is an indispensable partner in Afghan affairs is encouraging. It is, moreover, a whiff of fresh air as both the countries foment a new way out in their bilateralism by setting aside the prism of security conundrum.

“Bill Gates in Pakistan”
The Express Tribune, 19 February 2022
Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates is on his first trip to Pakistan, a country that he has helped immensely through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and has supported health care and anti-poverty initiatives across the globe.

“Appeasing allies”
The News International, 19 February 2022
The PTI government has reportedly decided to offer more cabinet positions in both the centre and Punjab to its allied parties. This decision seems to come at a time when the opposition parties have been busy meeting the government’s two main allies, the PML-Q and the MQM-P.

Dr. Reza Baqir, “Financial system for all but illicit”
Dawn, 19 February 2022
While technology enables financial inclusion, people need to trust digital financial services.

Issam Hamid, “Reform Agenda”
Dawn, 19 February 2022
A nation of 220 million hardworking and creative people should not be limited to a GDP that is lower than the market capitalization of any one of the world’s top 30 companies and hampered by a slower economic growth rate than most of its regional peers.
 

In Brief
POLITICS
Government to make changes in cabinets soon, says Information Minister
On 17 February, Dawn reported that Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry while talking to Dawn said, “The prime minister will make significant changes in the federal cabinet within two weeks.” According to Dawn, the PTI has decided to make changes in the federal cabinets by inducting leaders from allied parties. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Changes in cabinets coming soon, says Fawad Chaudhry,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

PTI MNA files two petitions against Maryam Nawaz
On 16 February, PTI MNA Aliya Hamza Malik filed two petitions separately against PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz, complaining that the latter had indulged in blackmailing media and creating obscene and unethical trends on social media. The PTI MNA said “Gutter journalism is being carried out in Pakistan under the guise of journalism,”. (Kalbe Ali, “PTI leader Aliya Hamza Malik files petitions in Pemra, FIA against Maryam Nawaz,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: ECP sets 29 May as the date for the first phase of local government polls
On 16 February, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) during a meeting set 29 May as the date for holding the first phase of local government polls in Punjab. During the first phases, LG polls will be held in 17 districts including Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Muzzafargarh, Layyah, Khanewal, Vehari, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Sialkot, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Jhelum and Attock. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “First phase of LG polls in Punjab to be held on May 29,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan promised to sweep the local government polls in Punjab. He said, “The whole party organisation and assembly members will jointly work to win the local government elections in Punjab.” (Imran Adnan, “PTI to ‘sweep’ Punjab LG polls: PM Imran,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

Punjab: PM Imran asks CM Buzdar to expand Punjab cabinet
On 16 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan gave a ‘strategic direction’ to Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar to expand the provincial cabinet to “improve the government’s performance to provide relief to the masses.” Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Political Communication Shahbaz Gill said, “The PTI government will induct fresh blood to help improve performance of the Punjab cabinet.” Additionally, PTI Punjab president Shafqat Mahmood said, “The Punjab government has for quite some time been seeking induction of more ministers [into the cabinet] and the prime minister’s instruction will only expedite the process.” (Mansoor Malik, “PM Imran directs Buzdar to expand Punjab cabinet ‘to serve the masses better’,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

Sindh: Bilawal blames the rise of harassment cases on the non-existence of students’ unions
On 16 February, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stated that the rise of harassment and abuse complaints on the non-existence of students’ unions and activism for the deterioration of educational institutions across the country. Further, on the Sindh Assembly unanimously passing the Sindh Students Union Bill 2019 he stated that political activism in colleges and universities would not only empower the voice of students raised for their rights, but it would also strengthen the institutions, their disciplines and quality of education. (Imran Ayub, “Student unions’ absence gives rise to harassment cases, fee hike: Bilawal,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

Balochistan: Six terrorists killed in an exchange of fire in Buleda
On 17 February, six terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire with security forces in Injirkan Range near the district’s Buleda area. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), “These terrorists were involved in recent firing and attacks on security forces in the Kech district,” adding, “Operations to eliminate such perpetrators of terrorist acts in Pakistan will continue and they will not be allowed to sabotage [the] peace, stability and progress of Balochistan.” (Naveed Siddiqui, “Six terrorists killed in exchange of fire near Balochistan's Buleda area: ISPR,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

Balochistan: Smuggling of urea fertiliser is continuing through different routes to Afghanistan, says minister
On 16 February, Balochistan’s Minister for Agriculture Asadullah Baloch said, “The smuggling of urea fertiliser is continuing through different routes to Afghanistan despite tall claims of institutions concerned about action being taken against smugglers.” Further, he warned that unless immediate measures are taken to stop smuggling of urea fertiliser to Afghanistan, Balochistan may face a serious agriculture crisis in the coming days. (Saleem Shahid, “Minister calls for end to smuggling of fertiliser to Afghanistan,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

INTERNAL
ECC likely to approve the additional grant of PKR 18 billion sought by ECP
On 17 February, the economic coordination committee is likely to take up the matter of providing the ECP with a technical supplementary grant of PKR 18.36 billion. The ECP requires additional grants to conduct local government elections and periodic revision of electoral rolls. The ECC will also consider providing a technical supplementary grant to the housing and works ministry, aviation division and defence ministry. (“ECC may okay Rs18.36b more for ECP today,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022)

Pakistan draws a three-pronged strategy to counter hate speech
On 16 February, the foreign minister addressed the inaugural session of the 8th meeting of the Istanbul Process, on the theme of the “10th anniversary of UN Human Rights Council Resolution 16/18: Looking Back and Moving Forward.” He proposed a three-pronged strategy, first, review of the discriminatory state laws, policies and practices; second, promotion of inter-faith harmony, tolerance and peaceful co-existence, and thirdly, an international instrument to prohibit the dissemination of ideas that incited acts of religious intolerance and hatred. He said, “While people of every faith have been victims of these scourges, Muslims and Islam have borne their main brunt.” (“Pakistan unveils strategy to counter hate speech,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022)

Uzair Baloch acquitted in another murder case
On 16 February, an anti-terrorism court acquitted Uzair Baloch, chief of banned Peoples Amn Committee. Uzair Baloch has been acquitted in 17 cases so far and still, there are more than 50 cases pending against him. Last month he was acquitted in the murder of rangers case. He has been associated with alleged extortion under the patronage of Pakistan Peoples Party and the police high-ups. The same anti-terrorism court acquitted five accused associated with Muttahida Qaumi Movement in the killing of two activists of rival Mohajir Qaumi Movement-Haqiqi in 2013. (Naeem Sahoutara, “Uzair Baloch acquitted in one more murder case for want of evidence,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
US has no choice but to work with Pakistan on the way ahead in Afghanistan, says US Special Representative for Afghanistan
On 17 February, Dawn reported that during a discussion the US Institute of Peace, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom West said, I have productive, good and honest relationships with Pakistani leaders, and they have huge amounts of expertise in their system on these (Afghan) matters,” adding, “And I think we don’t have a choice but to work with Pakistan on the way ahead.” Further, during the discussion, he said, “During the life of the negotiations, from January to August, and in the years before, we were in very close touch with the leadership of Pakistan regarding steps that we urged Pakistan to take to enhance the prospects of a negotiated settlement to this conflict,” adding, “had Pakistan taken some of those steps in a more meaningful and consistent way, I think we would be in a different place today. I genuinely do.” (Anwar Iqbal, “US has no choice but to work with Pakistan, says envoy,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Petrol price hike spark outrage in Pakistan
On 16 February, the country witnessed criticism and dissent by the opposition and section of people across the spectrum in Pakistan against steep price hike of petroleum products. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari rejecting the hike said, “After inflation, unemployment, poverty, dollar, and corruption, petroleum prices have also touched a record high in Imran Khan's government.” Shehbaz Sharif termed the hike “insensitive, heartless and cruel” and urged the masses to teach PM Khan a “befitting lesson at the time of elections.” Meanwhile, the PML-Q and the MQM-P also expressed serious concern over the hike. MQM-P in a statement said that the government was overburdening the people who are already facing the heat of the government’s policy saying, “For how long will the government keep collecting taxes through the people while the filthy rich manage to dodge the tax net?” (“Govt allies join chorus of protest against fuel price hike,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022) (Amir Wasim, “Outrage across country over massive hike in oil prices,” Dawn, 17 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
CJP Bandial assigns important responsibilities to the judge placed at fifth position in seniority list
On 16 February, CJP Umar Ata Bandial and master of the duty roaster handed down important administrative duties to Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan. The CJP has been requested to summon SC full court meetings to discuss issues related to the working of the apex court, which has not been conducted in the last couple of years. The bench headed by Justice Isa has not been listed significant matters and high-profile cases. The SC as an institution has been camouflaged with discretionary powers and periodical transgressions. Last year Justice Isa wrote in his dissent note “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.” (Hasnaat Malik, “Judge, 5th on seniority list, accorded important tasks,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022)      
 
ON CPEC
Senate Standing Committee on Planning and Development reviews provincial inclusivity in CPEC authority
On 16 February, the committee chaired by Saleem Mandviwala of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) shared it concerns on the “sense of deprivation” among provincial representatives in CPEC authority while discussing the CPEC Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2020. In his reply Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on CPEC Khalid Mansoor to the concerns, he said “Why do you object to the due representation of provinces in the CPEC Authority?”. He further said that suggested inclusion of six members from provinces under Article 18 will be discussed with planning ministry. (Haseeb Hanif, “Senate body seeks inclusive CPEC authority,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022)

“Altaf Hussain’s acquittal”
Dawn, 17 February 2022
There is a surreal disconnect between the verdict returned on Tuesday in a London court and the lived reality of the millions who call Karachi home.

“Polluted Ravi”
Dawn, 17 February 2022
The discovery of substantial pharmaceutical pollution in and around the river basin demands immediate action by the government. It must clean up the river whether or not its controversial riverfront city project makes headway.

“PSM employees”
The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022
The largest steel mills once known as the pride of the country had been faltering for the past many years, and came to a grinding halt around seven years ago, after unstoppably suffering colossal losses.

“Rise and rise in petrol prices”
The Express Tribune, 17 February 2022
While government officials have justifiably blamed rising international prices caused by increased global demand and geopolitical tensions, this fact is of little use to the average Pakistani, who will also have to deal with the knock-on effect that fuel prices have on inflation.

Ahmed Bilal Mehmood, “Elections and the courts
Dawn, 17 February 2022
While rejecting the plea of the provincial government for postponing the election, one of the honorable judges on the two-member bench aptly observed that if issuing the election schedule is not the prerogative of the ECP, then this institution should be closed down.

Mansoor Raza, “Revival of unions”
The News International, 17 February 2022
In a landmark decision, the Sindh Assembly recently passed a bill to restore student unions. According to the bill, a student union will be formed in every private and government education institution in the province.

Sajad Jatoi, “Political rhetoric”
The News International, 17 February 2022
As the 2023 elections draw closer, people have one question: what is it that Imran Khan will show as his government’s achievements? Has he got anything tangible which he can refer to when he launches his campaign for the next elections? He should think about this.

In Brief
POLITICS
Bilawal approves the route plan for the long march
On 15 February, the PPP party’s Central Media Office announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has given approval of the route plan for the long march to Islamabad. They announced that Bilawal will began the march at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam in Karachi on 27 February to begin an anti-government long march which will reach Islamabad in 10 days after travelling through 34 cities and towns of the country.  (Amir Wasim, “PPP march to reach capital in 10 days,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

PM yet to consult on new COAS: President Arif Alvi
On 15 February, while talking to the host of a private TV channel President despoiled claims and gossips about PM having consulted President already on two important summaries, one on parliament and another one on an important personality. He added that consultation would happen at an appropriate time. The president also discarded speculation around the no-trust motion adding that the government was not going anywhere. (“Consultation with PM on new COAS hasn’t taken place yet: President Arif Alvi,” The News International, 16 February 2022)

INTERNAL
UK court acquits Altaf Hussain after trial
On 15 February, the Kingston-upon-Thames crown court acquitted the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Altaf Hussain on two counts of ‘encouraging terrorism’ contrary to section 1(2) of the UK’s Terrorism Act 2006. Following the judgement, Hussain said, “The government and the courts of Pakistan should note that this trial had not just judges and a prosecution but also jury members who I have never seen in my life,” adding, “They all heard everything that was submitted as evidence, and the result is before you. Whether it is Pemra (the electronic media regulator in Pakistan) or anyone, they should lift the ban on my speeches.” (Atika Rehman, “Altaf Hussain acquitted after whirlwind trial,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

PIA readies its plan for direct flights to Australia
On 16 February, a national daily reported that Pakistan International Airlines were readying plans for direct operational flights to Australia. The development comes after IATA claimed that PIA will turnaround into profitable domain by 2025. The direct flight from Karachi and Lahore to Sydney would greatly reduce the travelling time from 35 hours to 13 hours. (Bilal Hussain, “PIA gears up for direct flights to Australia for the first time,” The News International, 16 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: ATC rejects MNA Ali Wazir’s bail plea
On 15 February, an antiterrorism court dismissed the bail application of MNA Ali Wazir. The judge dismissed the bail observing that testimonies of two witnesses of the prosecution which were recorded in the case, thus the applicant could not make out a case for grant of bail after arrest. Meanwhile, the sit-in organised by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) for his release continued for the third consecutive day. (“ATC rejects MNA Ali Wazir’s bail plea; Karachi sit-in continues,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

Sindh: Bhand community ends four-day sit-in over murder of six men in Qazi Ahmed
On 15 February, the Bhand community ended their four-day sit-in at the Qazi Ahmed section of the National Highway after Zardari clansmen agreed on the terms of a compromise regarding the killing of six persons. Further, an FIR against the suspects was registered and the deceased were taken to be buried. (“Four-day sit-in over murder of six men in Qazi Ahmed ends,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

Sindh: Forest department notifies islands off Karachi’s coast as ‘protected forests’
On 15 February, the Sindh Forest department in a notification said, “In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 29 of the Forest Act, 1927 and all other powers enabling the government in this behalf, and in supersession of all notification issued in this behalf, the Government of Sindh is pleased to declare the intertidal land (mangrove areas) of Thatta and Sujawal districts described in the following Schedule to be “Protected Forests” with immediate effect. The provision of Chapter IV of the said Act shall be applicable to it.” Further, the notification stated that an estimated area of 750,000 acres mapped through GIS has been declared protected under two schedules of the Forest Act. (Faiza Ilyas, “Sindh govt notifies islands off Karachi’s coast as ‘protected forests’,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

Punjab: Ravi ‘most polluted river’ in the world, says study
On 16 February, Dawn reported that according to a study on pharmaceutical pollution of the world’s rivers, the River Ravi flowing through Lahore has been found to be the world’s most polluted, with active pharmaceutical ingredients posing a ‘threat to environment and human health.’ The study was conducted at the University of York and published by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. (Imran Gabol, “Ravi ‘most polluted river’ in the world,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: ECP rejects petition seeking postponing second phase of LG polls in the province
On 15 February, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) rejected a set of petitions seeking to postpone the second phase of local government (LG) polls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The commission decided that the elections would take place on 31 March as per the revised schedule. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “ECP refuses to postpone second phase of LG polls in KP,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Government enables the highest price increases of petroleum products by PKR 10-12
On 15 February, the government increased the prices of all petroleum products by Rs10 to Rs12 per litre for the next 15 days. The levy has been increased by around 8-9 per cent proportionately. However, the GST is still kept at zero for all the key products including petrol, HSD, kerosene and LDO against 17pc normal GST. The decision comes after price volatility in global oil market due to crises brewing on Eastern frontier of Ukraine. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Petroleum prices reach record levels,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

Pakistan will negotiate hard with IMF over the practicability of benchmarks and new demands
On 15 February, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenues Shaukat Tarin while speaking about the relevance of Personal Income Tax Bills mentioned “We negotiated hard with the IMF in the past and it would be done again as the wish list cannot be implemented in totality,". Mr. Tarin lamented about the tax paying culture in Pakistan and dreamed of taking the GDP to tax ratio at par with Turkey. He added that “Pakistan has failed to achieve long-term sustained growth mainly because of three major reasons including low savings rate, the yawning gap between exports and imports and low agriculture productivity,". (Mehtab Haider, “Withdrawal of Personal Income Tax exemptions: Govt to hold tough negotiations with IMF, says Shaukat Tarin,” The News International, 16 February 2022)

PMO and Finance Ministry does not see eye to eye on the priority of inflation and IMF targets
On 15 February, the PMO sought an additional PKR 200 billion to offset inflation impact on the lower- and middle-income groups. While IMF targets have reduced already constraining fiscal space be it is reaching a target of PKR 4 trillion or keeping the fiscal at a surplus of PKR 25 billion. Shaukat Tarin, when given ideas by PMO to create fiscal space, said it was the job of the finance ministry to carve out fiscal space. The country is experiencing record inflation at 13 per cent and with the recent mini-budget, the government has further the comfortable development expenditure figures. On top of this government is facing a backlash politically in KP and across political circles as there is speculation of a no-trust motion going on. (Shahbaz Rana, “PM Office seeks Rs200b to offset inflation impact,” The Express Tribune, 16 February 2022)

ON AFGHANISTAN
UNSC Panel became the platform for veiled attack on cross border terrorism from Afghanistan and India
On 15 February, while speaking at UN Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) Pakistani representative Umer Siddique urged the UNSC panel to provide political support against perpetrators responsible for cross border terrorist attacks on its soil. He also reminded the panel on uselessness of distinction of terrorism and struggle for basic human rights in context of Kashmir. He said, “We must not allow the hijacking of technical bodies such as this to serve bilateral programmes of hate and aggression.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Pakistan asks UNSC to help stop attacks from Afghanistan,” Dawn, 16 February 2022)

“Proposed SOE law”
Dawn, 16 February 2022
The proposed law is approved and implemented in letter and spirit, it would pave the way for ensuring transparent management and ultimately disinvestment or privatization of most SOEs whose contingent liabilities at almost 8pc of GDP are posing considerable fiscal costs and risk to the country’s debt sustainability.

“Border security”
Dawn, 16 February 2022
The fencing of the border with Iran and Afghanistan is a mega project that is near completion and has helped in curtailing not just terrorism but also smuggling and narco-trafficking.

“Qandeel murder case”
The Express Tribune, 16 February 2022
The Lahore High Court has acquitted the prime accused in the Qandeel Baloch murder case, setting aside the earlier decision of a trial court that awarded life imprisonment to him.

“Anti-Muslim France”
The Express Tribune, 16 February 2022
France is now a country where Muslims are “considered guilty until proven innocent”. The media too has reported on how French-born and bred Muslims have left the country as they seek to escape the outright racism they face from French society.

“IMF and SOEs”
The Express Tribune, 16 February 2022
By making legislation and guarantees in this context as a precondition, the IMF may have transgressed its limits or in a way intervened in our sovereign limits, but it is a bitter fact and it needs to be addressed.

“Strategic politics”
The News International, 16 February 2022
While the three major opposition parties – the PML-N, JUI-F, and the PPP – may have agreed on this strategy, the question is whether the opposition has any chance of succeeding at all and what the scenario would be if it does.

Zahid Hussain, “Pushing the Afghan people”
Dawn, 16 February 2022
The seizing of Afghan assets will worsen the suffering of Afghan women and children. And the collapse of the Afghan state would have serious implications for the region and international peace.

Dr. Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “Mantra of civil service reforms: empty promises”
The Express Tribune, 16 February 2022
The upshot of the discussion is that amendments must be brought in rules of business and appointment and promotions per the ideals as enumerated in the manifesto and other proclamation of the PTI. Otherwise, they will remain empty promises.

Saba Gul Khattak, “Pakistan and gender ranking”
The News International, 16 February 2022
Despite progress, why does Pakistan’s ranking register no change on all indices of gender equality? We ascribe it to deep-seated patriarchy that ensures persistent structural discrimination without ever questioning ranking methodologies.
 

In Brief
POLITICS
COAS meets with President and PM on the same day
On 14 February, COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa met President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran. According to the PMO, “Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Prime Minister Imran Khan today. Professional matters pertaining to Pakistan Army were discussed during the meeting.” Meanwhile, the President’s statement said that the COAS “briefed the President about the professional preparedness and measures being taken by the security forces against the terrorist elements,” the presidency stated, adding that the army chief reiterated the resolve “to eliminate militants and miscreants from the country.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Army chief holds rare same-day talks with President Alvi, PM Imran,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

Dont panic: PML-Q MNA calms Imran on Shehbaz Sharif-Chaudhris meeting
Chaudhry Moonis Elahi, the PML-Q MNA assured Imran Khan that the party would stand by the PTI, and asked the Prime Minister to assure his party members regarding the same. A report by the News quoted Moonis Elahi clarifying Shehbaz Sharif's meeting with the Chaudhry brothers as "to inquire about the health of Chaudhry Shujaat." He also was quoted to have said, "The relationship with Imran Khan has been made to carry forward." ("Contact with opposition parties: PMLQ allays govt’s concerns," The News International, 15 February 2022)

PPP warns against any attempt to roll back the 18th Amendment
On 14 February, PPP criticised remarks by various government officials against the 18th Constitution Amendment warning that any changes wo­uld have “disastrous effects” on the federation. PPP Senator Raza Rabbani said, “The 18th Amendment and the parliament are the lifeline that holds the federation together. Any attempt to roll back the 18th Amendment will give rise to extreme movements of nationalism and even federalists can raise the slogan, let the provinces collect all taxes and the federation place its expenditures before the provinces.” (Amir Wasim, “PPP warns against move to roll back 18th Amendment,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

ANP to join PPP’s long march to Islamabad
On 14 February, the Awami National Party announced that it would participate in the PPP’s long march to Islamabad against the PTI government on 27 February. This announcement came after the PPP’s delegation led by Syed Khursheed Shah met ANP central general secretary Mian Iftikhar Hussain. (Ali Hazrat Bacha, “ANP to join Peoples Party long march on Islamabad,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

PDM chief hints at change of plans in long march
On 14 February, Fazlur Rehman while speaking to the media said that long march will not be needed if the opposition finalizes the date of a no-trust move against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government. He said “Asif Ali Zardari is currently admitted at a hospital but we will meet him soon. We will announce the date of the no-trust move after holding consultations. We have expedited our contacts with the ally parties of the government.” (“Fazlur Rehman hints at changing long march plan,” The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022)

FM Qureshi says new criteria are being put in place to judge ministries performance
On 14 February, FM Qureshi shared with the media that new ‘criteria to judge ministries’ performance’ was in the making after several frontline ministries question the rewarding process of ministries. He said that even the USA appreciated the efforts of the foreign office of Pakistan in evacuation efforts during Afghanistan withdrawal. He added that the visit to China was a successful one and European Union had invited the Pakistan Prime minister. Qureshi also answered some questions from media around political developments in the country. (“New ‘criteria to judge ministries’ performance’ in the making,” The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022)

INTERNAL
LHC bench acquits Qandeel’s brother of her murder
On 14 February, the Lahore High Court’s Multan bench acquitted the younger brother Qandeel Baloch of her murder. While speaking to Dawn, the convict’s counsel Advocate Sardar said that the trial court had wrongly exercised its power and awarded punishment to Waseem under section 311 of PPC, despite the pardon given by legal heirs of the deceased. Following this, Justice Sohail Nasir allowed Waseem’s appeal and acquitted him of the murder charge. (Imran Gabol, “Qandeel’s brother acquitted of her murder,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Zardaris agree to hand over 154 acres of the disputed  
On 14 February, negotiations between the Zardari clansmen and the protesting Bhand community made some progress after the former agreed to hand over 154 acres of the disputed 390-acre piece of land in the riverine area of Qazi Ahmed taluka of Shaheed Benazirabad district. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Zardaris withdraw from disputed land in Benazirabad to end row with Bhands,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

Balochistan: Suspect killed during an operation in Pasni, says ISPR
On 15 February, Dawn reported that according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), a leader of a banned terrorist organisation was killed during an exchange of fire with security forces in Pasni city of Gwadar district. The statement added that the exchange of fire took place when security forces conducted an operation in the area. (Mohammad Hussain Khan, “Suspect killed during operation in Pasni,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Security forces kill a terrorist who made a “suicidal attempt” to enter into a military post
On 15 February, The Express Tribune reported that according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces killed a terrorist who made a “suicidal attempt” to enter into a military post in Dossali. Additionally, weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorist. (“Security forces kill terrorist, foil suicide attack bid in NW,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:  LG elections update
On 14 February, SC tells ECP to decide on the dates for the second phase of local government elections in KP province. The direction comes after SC had directed suspension of the second phase of the poll due to weather conditions in some constituencies. While trends from re-polling of 66 tehsils in KP showed that JUI-F was leading with 23 tehsils closely followed by PTI in 21 tehsils. The election commission is yet to declare the official results. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC wants ECP to decide schedule for KP LG polls’ second phase today,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
IHC asks the commission to submit a progress report on missing persons
On 14 February, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the commission for missing persons set up by the court to submit its progress report and its terms of reference (TORs). During the hearing the chief justice observed that the cases of those citizens who went missing in 2016 were clear, however, the progress thereafter was not clear. Further, the court inquired on who was responsible for missing persons. Additionally, the court also summoned the Attorney General of Pakistan for the next date of hearing for assistance in the case. (“Islamabad High Court seeks report in missing persons case,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

ECONOMY
SBP governor sceptic with the risks associated with cryptocurrencies
On 14 February, the central bank released the detailed speech of its governor which was delivered during his address at the Annual Investment Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The speech mentioned, “In Pakistan, we as the central bank have reached a conclusion as of now that, for us and in terms of the core objectives of the central bank, the potential risks far outweigh the benefits,”. The speech further said “Because of their speculative nature, acute price fluctuations and, most importantly, their distributed and decentralised nature, they can pose a risk to financial and monetary stability,”. (Shahid Iqbal, “Cryptocurrencies have more risks than benefits, says SBP governor,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

Standing Committee on finance seeks redrafted version of four bills emanating from IMF requirements.
On 14 February, the national assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance deferred four bills. First, State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Governance and Operations Bill, 2021 due to clause on providing independence to decide the SOE’s own procurement rules. Second, Fiscal Respon­si­b­­ility and Debt Limitation (Amend­ment) Bill, 2021 because of the increased limit on outstanding debts was increased from 6 per cent of GDP to 10 per cent of the GDP and the limit on stock of the total public debt and guarantees was proposed at 70 per cent of the GDP in the new bill. Third, Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of Pakistan Bill, 2021 for requirement of deeper research into bank’s establishment, capital, purpose and power, management and accounts and finance. Fourth, The Modaraba Companies (Floatation and Operations) (Amendment) Bill, 2021 (Government Bill) was deferred due to request from SECP. (“NA panel defers key bills under IMF programme,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Iranian Interior Minister meets PM on border security
On 14 February, Iranian Minister for Interior Dr Ahmad Vahidi called on COAS and Prime Minister in Islamabad. The visit came in the backdrop of recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan that borders both Iran and Afghanistan. PM Khan stressed on joint cooperation to address security issues and peace on the border. ISPR also released a statement after meeting between COAS and Iranian interior minister, the statement also focused on the cooperation between “two brotherly countries is vital for peace and stability in the region.” (“Pakistan seeks joint action with Iran on border security,” The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022)

Pakistan announces wheat transport from India to Afghanistan via its motorways
On 14 February, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhary announced that 60 trucks would reach Wagah Border (Lahore) from Afghanistan to further travel to Attari (India) and collect the first consignment of wheat from Indian authorities. An official stated “At Attari, the India authorities would facilitate the unloading of wheat bags from their trucks and loaded onto the Afghan vehicles. The Afghan trucks would then return to Wagah border where Pakistan Rangers would carry out a detailed security check and the customs authorities check the commodity. After clearance, the trucks would be dispatched for Afghanistan via Torkham where they would be checked again,”. (Khalid Hasnain, “Wheat trucks from Wagah to proceed toll-free till Torkham,” Dawn, 15 February 2022)

“PTM dharna”
Dawn, 15 February 2022
Peaceful movements calling for basic rights must not be termed anti-national simply for disagreeing with the dominant narrative.

“Political games”
Dawn, 15 February 2022
The political scene is heating up fast. With a flurry of important meetings happening in Islamabad and Lahore, and PTI allies breaking bread with opposition leaders, there is a fresh churn in static waters.

“Suicides at varsities”
The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022
The rising incidents of criminal assault on females indicate that they face hazards in the workplace, educational institutions, roads, and streets. If it continues, females would continue to snuff out their own lives, and with this the dreams and hopes of their families as well.

“Export diversification”
The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022
The Asian Development Bank’s ‘Pakistan’s Economy and Trade in the Age of Global Value Chains’ report says that the country has one of the lowest trade-to-GDP ratios in the world at 30%.

“Another lynching”
The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022
It squarely reflects how intolerant we are as a societal unit, and how ineffective valves of redressing grievances have turned out to be. Politicians, administration, and religious scholars have not lived up to the expectations of carving out a rational and considerate society, and this is why extremism thrives.

Navaira Ali, “Increasing Iron”
Dawn, 15 February 2022
Pakistan has one of the highest rates of child malnutrition. Eradicating iron deficiency and malnutrition in Pakistan will need a joint effort from the government, the food industry, and the informed masses so that there is hope for future generations.

Mirza Moiz Baig, “Strengthening Democracy”
Dawn, 15 February 2022
In a robust democracy, service delivery in local government carves a path for local leaders to advance to higher political office. These paths, however, are closed when mainstream parties are divorced from LGs.

M Zeb Khan, “The voter’s dilemma”
The Express Tribune, 15 February 2022
Democracy promotes accountability, transparency, and rule of law only when it truly represents the people and when people own it. Elections, manipulated or poorly participated, hardly make any difference to the integrity and prosperity of a country.

In Brief
POLITICS
Shehbaz visits Chaudhry Shujaat after 14 years
On 13 February, Shehbaz Sharif along with senior party leaders visited PML-Q president Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and provincial president Chaudhry Parvez Elahi. During the meeting, they explained that the PDM had made a “firm decision” to move a no-trust motion against the government in the coming days. The PML-N has reached out to the PML-Q after 14 long years to seek its support in ousting the PTI government. (Mansoor Malik, “Shehbaz visits Chaudhry Shujaat after 14 years, seeks support against govt,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Opposition has “no guts and prowess to bring a no-trust motion,” says Information Minister
On 13 February, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry criticized the opposition for another attempt to remove the PTI government. He said, “It has no guts and prowess to bring a no-trust motion,” adding that the opposition had made such an abortive bid earlier and its current endeavour would also meet the same fate. He said, “The no-trust move can succeed only when the opposition parties are standing on their own feet, but not through beseeching or hatching conspiracies.” (“Opposition anti-govt move won’t succeed, says Fawad,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: PTM staged a rally for the release of MNA Ali Wazir
On 13 February, hundreds of workers of Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) staged a rally from Sohrab Goth to the Sindh Assembly demanding the release of MNA Ali Wazir. The rally was led by PTM chief Manzoor Pashteen who stated, “The government calls itself a democratic one but we are not being allowed to exercise our democratic rights.” (“PTM stages sit-in at Sindh Assembly for release of MNA Ali Wazir,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Sindh: Bhand community, supported by various political parties to hold strike over murder of five men
On 13 February, members of Bhand community refused to bury their dead until members of the Zardari clan who had allegedly killed them in Qazi Ahmed were brought to justice. Their sit-in on the National Highway was led by Syed Zain Shah, Sindh United Party (SUP) secretary-general. Meanwhile, STP chairman Dr Qadir Magsi called for a Sindh-wide strike on 15 February. (“SUP, STP plan Sindh-wide strike tomorrow over murder of five men in Qazi Ahmed,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Sindh: Forest department yet to declare Bundal and Buddo islands protected forests
On 14 February, Dawn reported that the forest department is yet to implement and release a notification on the decision of the Sindh cabinet that declared the Bundal and Buddo islands off the coast of Karachi as protected forests. (Faiza Ilyas, “Notification to declare Bundal, Buddo islands protected forests still awaited,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Sindh: 300 kilos of heroin seized in Karachi city
On 13 February, Minister for Excise & Taxation and Narcotics Control Mukesh Kumar Chawla stated that the department has recovered a huge quantity of heroin, worth more than USD 1.4 billion in a raid in Surjani Town. Terming the raid as the “largest drug bust in the history of Karachi,” over 304 kilograms of heroin, 500kg of charas and 38kg of chemicals were recovered during the raid. (Imtiaz Ali, “Over 300 kilos of heroin worth $1.4bn seized in Karachi city,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Balochistan: Two TTP suspects arrested in Chaman
On 13 February, two key suspects from the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were arrested in a search operation conducted by the security forces in Chaman. According to security officials, the suspects confessed that they belong to Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and the TTP and were working under a TTP commander who is operating from Spin Buldak. The official added that they have also confessed to killing Levies Force personnel in Chaman and are also involved in a grenade attack on Levies officials last week. (Saleem Shahid, “Two TTP men arrested in search operation in Chaman,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Balochistan: Three women and two men were killed for honour in the provinces
On 14 February, Dawn reported according to a police officer, three women and two men were killed in the name of honour in Jaffarabad, Mast­ung and Hub areas during the past one day. (“Five killed for honour in Balochistan,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Kohat hold protests over failure to provide gas
On 13 February, residents of villages along the Indus Highway held a jirga to protest the authorities’ failure to provide gas to them despite a pipeline carrying gas to the Kohat city. Further, the participants threatened to stop gas supply to the city and other areas if their demand was not met. (“Kohat jirga demands gas supply to villages along Indus Highway,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: LG polls, PTI wins six seats, JUIF four, ANP, JI one each
On 13 February, PTI candidate Umar Amin Gandpur won the contest for the Dera Ismail Khan tehsil mayor slot after defeating JUI-F candidate Kafil Nizami in the home constituency of Maulana Fazlur Rehman. PTI candidates in six constituency won the elections while JUI-F won 4 seats and ANP and Jamat-e-Islami won one seat each. A total of 302 polling stations was been set up for the election. (“KP LG by-polls: PTI wins six seats, JUIF four, ANP, JI one each,” The News International, 14 February 2022)

ECONOMY
IMF links the continuation of its ongoing programme with new SOE law by the end of June
On 14 February, Dawn reported that the IMF while highlighting contingent liabilities of the state-owned enterprises (SOEs) at almost eight per cent of GDP, has linked the continuation of its ongoing programme with “parliamentary approval” of the new SOE law by the end of June to ensure transparent management of these companies. In a report, the IMF said, “Contingent liabilities from loss-making SOEs — to the extent not covered by government guarantees — continue to represent additional risks to debt sustainability.” (Khaleeq Kiani, “IMF wants govt to pass new law on state firms’ management,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Iranian Interior Minister visits Pakistan with a nine-member delegation
On 14 February, Iranian Interior Minister Dr Ahmad Vahidi arrived in Islamabad. The minister along with a nine-member delegation is on a day-long visit to Pakistan. On their arrival, they were received by interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed. According to the Ministry of Interior, the Iranian minister will hold meetings with Prime Minister Imran Khan and other government functionaries to discuss issues related to Pak-Iran border management and the exchange of prisoners. (“Iranian interior minister arrives in Pakistan on day-long visit,” Dawn, 14 February 2022)

ON AFGHANISTAN
The world has no option but to engage with the Taliban, says PM Khan
On 14 February, The Express Tribune reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan during a CNN interview urged the international community to engage with the Taliban government. He argued that there was no alternative to the Taliban government and that “no one can replace them right now.” Further, he said, “Is there a chance that if the Taliban government is squeezed there could be a change for the better? No. So the only alternative we have right now is to work with them [Taliban] and incentivise them for what the world wants – inclusive government, human rights and women rights in particular.” (“World has no option but to engage with Taliban: PM,” The Express Tribune, 14 February 2022)

“Right to travel”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
 In his judgment, Justice Tariq Saleem said that the Passport Act did not contain any provision for blacklisting and that the right to travel was globally recognized as one of the basic human rights.

“Few transplants”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
THE factors that together give sustenance to illegal organ transplantation exist here in plenty — greed, abject poverty, ignorance, and weak rule of law.

“Circular railway funds”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
The federal government's announcement of releasing Rs270 billion for the restoration and modernization of the Karachi Circular Railway is great news. However, it remains to be seen whether it is put into reality soon and relieves the commuting pressure of millions of Karachi residents.

“Planned Universities”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
The new universities need to be launched with proper planning, and the aim should be to equip universities with all the required facilities. 

“Account closed”
The Express Tribune, 14 February 2022
Washington has gobbled up half the money and ensured that the other half does not reach the Taliban leadership which is grappling with serious macroeconomic challenges as well as an ever-worsening humanitarian crisis in the country. The Afghan forex account in American banks thus stands closed.

“Democracy report”
The News International, 14 February 2022
Pakistan is now ranked 104th out of 167 countries. Almost all metrics, such as election process and pluralism, government functioning, political engagement, political culture, and civil rights, have been bad.

Maleeha Lodi, “Echoes of the Cold war”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
The Ukraine crisis has pushed Russia and China into a tighter embrace and exposed divisions in the West.

Ammar Ather Saeed, “Modern-day slavery”
Dawn, 14 February 2022
Withholding tax is like modern-day slavery where the state obligates you to work for them without rewarding you for the work that you do for them. 

Safio Bano, “Why women march?”
The News International, 14 February 2022
Aurat March is coming, and so is the never-ending process of trolling and vitriol against it. It has been discussed innumerable times what Aurat March does not stand for. We have kept saying it does not stand for misandry or wreckage of family life, or of our cultural values.
 

In Brief
EXTERNAL
Biden administration frees frozen Afghanistan assets for relief and 9/11 victims
On 11 February, the US president signed an executive order to release assets belonging to Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) after the same had been blocked in August 2021. The assets would be split into half; the first half will be used by DAB and the other half for compensation to 9/11 victims. The statement said: “Even if funds are transferred for the benefit of the Afghan people, more than $3.5 billion in DAB assets would remain in the United States and are subject to ongoing litigation by US victims of terrorism.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Biden releases frozen Afghan assets,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)
 
Export of 14 commodities to Kabul to be allowed in local currency
On 11 February, Commerce Advisor Abdul Razak Dawood tweeted the list of 14 commodities that will be exported to Afghanistan in local currency terms. While launching State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan’s digital portal and a mobile application on the eve of its golden jubilee golden, he said: “We are depending more on textiles. We should be forward-looking and focus on the services sector and other non-traditional sectors,”. (“Export of 14 items to Kabul allowed in rupee,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)
 
INTERNAL
Qureshi questions performance criteria for ministries, as the Foreign Ministry gets the eleventh spot
On 11 February, Shah Mehmood Qureshi wrote to Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Establishment Arbab Shahzad and questioned the manner of rewarding and ranking the top 10 ministries by PM Khan. Other than foreign ministry, IT, Finance, Housing, Information and environment ministry were dropped from the top ten list. The PTI allies also criticized the reward openly; MQM which holds the IT ministry said: “We [MQM] have increased IT exports of the country by 50pc, but we were nowhere on the top ten list,”. Advisor on establishment Mr Shehzad in his response to Qureshi’s letter said “If Mr Qureshi thinks that his ministry should have come on the top position, it is his right [to think that way]. But what we have mentioned in the report, it was based on the data we received,”. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Qureshi turns dissenter, scorns reward criteria,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)
 
The medical board constituted by the Punjab government finds medical reports of Nawaz Sharif incomplete and unacceptable
On 11 February, it was reported that the medical board was not satisfied with the lack of clarity and information available in the medical report of former PM Nawaz Sharif. The former PM had submitted the same report to LHC for seeking more time to return as the report had advised to not travel due to Nawaz suffering from heart and kidney ailments and diabetes, and the doctors have barred him from visiting public spaces, i.e., airports, planes, and other crowded places, due to coronavirus. (“Medical board terms Nawaz Sharif's reports 'incomplete',” Business Recorder, 12 February 2022)
 
Smart lockdown and SOP in Pakistan saved precious lives: WHO Representative of Pakistan
On 11 February, while speaking at a news conference in Islamabad WHO Dr Palitha Gunarathna Mahipala appreciated government efforts and commitment to fight the Covid pandemic. Referring to the global average positivity rate, the country president said the positivity rate was less than 10 per cent and better than the global average. PM Khan took the news to a top-level meeting convened to review the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) plan of action ahead to deal with the pandemic. (Amin Ahmed, “Smart lockdowns ensured protection of downtrodden people: PM,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)
 
PDM announces no-trust move against PTI regimes in centre and provinces
On 11 February, after a closed-door meeting in Model Town Lahore, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) leaders announced their agreement on bringing a no-trust move against PTI. Speaking to the press PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said: “We will first complete the homework, prepare the ground, complete the numbers and then announce the date. We will sit again if the numbers are not complete.” Shehbaz Sharif in response to a question said: “Who will move forward to get rid of the government since the people are suffering? We will try our best to dislodge the government in view of the desires of the people”. (“PDM agrees to no-trust move against PTI in centre, provinces,” The Nation, 12 February 2022)
 
ECONOMY
Auto sector sales on a positive trend in year-on-year comparison for first seven months
On 11 February, a national daily reported that overall sales for 7MFY22 stood at 131,459 units compared to 81,569 units in the first seven months of the previous financial year of 2021. The car sales jumped by 61.5 per cent, truck sales by 80 per cent, jeeps/pickup vehicle sales were up by 56 per cent and 16 per cent rise in demand for tractors. However, the two-wheeler, three-wheeler and buses did not perform well. Among the car companies, Suzuki sold the highest number of units followed by Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. (Aamir Shafat Khan, “Auto sector posts robust sales in seven months,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)

Remittance inflows reach another record of USD 18 billion for 7MFY22
On 11 February, the State Bank of Pakistan shared data related to remittances and home remittances sent by overseas Pakistanis were USD 1.6 billion more compared to what Pakistan received in the first seven months of the previous financial year of 2021. The highest inflows came from Saudi Arabia (USD 4.574 billion) followed by UAE (USD 3.38 billion), the UK (USD 2.467 billion) and the USA (USD 1.7 billion). However, January usually receives less compared to other months due to seasonality but the remittance has been on a robust growth trend. (Rizwan Bhatti, “Jul-Jan FY22L: Record $18bn remittance inflows received by the country,” Business Recorder, 12 February 2022)
 
PROVINCES
Sindh government passes Student Union Bill 2021
On 11 February, the Sindh Assembly unanimously passed the Sindh Student Union Bill to revive the student unions so as to promote an environment for social interaction and exchange of ideas and with restriction on violence and gun culture in educational institutions. Sindh Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mukesh Kumar Chawla read the objectives of the bill as “The student unions and their activities will promote students success by offering a variety of programmes, activities, services and facilities that, when taken together, represent a plan for the development of community at university/college level,". (Hafeez Tunio, “Sindh Student Union Bill passed,” The Express Tribune, 12 February 2022)
 
List of constituencies released by ECP for local elections in Punjab
On 11 February, ECP has issued a preliminary list of constituencies for holding local government (LG) polls in Punjab. At least 2,544 neighbourhood councils and 3,128 village councils have been formed under Election Act 2017 and the Punjab Local Government Ordinance 2021. Voters may challenge the demarcation of their respective constituencies till 25 February said the press release by ECP. (Amjad Mehmood, “ECP issues lists of constituencies for local polls in Punjab,” Dawn, 12 February 2022)

“Larkana jail crisis”
Dawn, 12 February 2022
The current issue in the Larkana Central Jail is a charge sheet against all relevant agencies. This occurrence should serve as a wake-up call for the administration, which should begin revamping the jail system to prevent similar crises from erupting in other parts of the country.
 
“Impoverished districts”
Dawn, 12 February 2022
The majority of the districts of southern Punjab are among the most underdeveloped and deprived in the province in terms of basic public services such as health, education, safe drinking water supply, sanitation, etc.
 
“Collective Mobility”
The Express Tribune, 12 February 2022
The fact that over one million commuters used the Green Line buses in Karachi in less than a month demonstrates the need to increase such quick collective transportation in the megacities
 
“Pay raise”
 The Express Tribune, 12 February 2022
Islamabad gave federal government employees in many sectors a 15% raise, averting a potentially embarrassing protest by employees who have become increasingly vocal about the impact of inflation.
 
“Circular trap”
The News International, 12 February 2022
Only a long-term solution to the continuing power-sector issue can be found in a comprehensive reform strategy and effective implementation.
 
“Life as a woman”
The News International, 12 February 2022
The four stories of women from four different parts of Pakistan demonstrate the need for stricter laws and their enforcement, which would guarantee their protection no matter where they go or how they dress.
 
Syed Saadat, “An unhealthy card”
Dawn, 12 February 2022
The program's main selling point — national healthcare coverage — is also its worst flaw. It is attempting to provide services to everyone rather than focusing on those who are truly in need.
 
A G Noorani, “Engage the Taliban”
Afghanistan wishes to engage in an open dialogue with no preconditions on any side. By dealing with the Taliban, the international community would gain and offer relief to the Afghan people. As a result, both parties will benefit.
 
“Beware the power of digital platforms”
The Express Tribune, 12 February 2022
Digital technologies can readily be used to fuel hate, to surveil, or even muffle dissent.

In Brief
POLITICS
PM Khan admits that he could not bring “change” as promised
On 10 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a ceremony held to award certificates to the top 10 best performing ministries and divisions said that he could not bring the “change” he had promised due to “faults” in the system. He said, “In the beginning we wanted to bring change immediately through revolutionary steps, but later realised that our system was incapable of absorbing shock.” Further, he said, “The biggest problem is that there has been no connection between the government and the interest of the country.” He went on to ask the ministries to keep the national interest foremost and work on “out of the box solutions” to deliver the most. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran admits failure to bring about promised change,” Dawn, 11 February 2022)

Bilawal criticises government for handing out ‘best performance’ certificates to only 10 ‘blue-eyed’ federal ministers
On 10 February, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stated that Prime Minister Imran Khan himself admitted failure of his entire cabinet when he awarded ‘best performance’ certificates to only 10 ‘blue-eyed’ federal ministers. He added that the PM had committed a ‘great injustice’ to Multan for depriving FM Qureshi of the award. Further, criticising the PTI government he said, “We will not let the ‘selected’ cause more harm to the people of Pakistan. We will tell the public about the facilitators of this incompetent government,” adding, “Now, the government’s allies are also changing their views and we will pass through the constituencies of the allies and tell them the verdict of the people. We will expose every facilitator of Imran Khan on the way to Islamabad.” (Imran Gabol, “Bilawal waxes satirical about top-10 ministers,” Dawn, 11 February 2022)

INTERNAL
COAS Bajwa visits Ordnance Centre and Fauji Foundation in Karachi
On 10 February, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa attended the Colonel Commandant Ceremony at the Ordnance Centre, during which he installed Major General Syed Shahab Shahid as Colonel Commandant of the Ordnance Corps. Additionally, he also the PAF Air War College Institute. During his visit, he said, “Superiority in modern-day battlefield could only be maintained if we remain alive to contemporary challenges and are prepared to tackle them in line with emerging modern concepts.” (“Army chief visits Ordnance Centre, Fauji Foundation in Karachi,” Dawn, 11 February 2022)

Kissan Card essential to end urea subsidy to fertilizer manufacturers, says ministers
On 10 February, three federal ministers during a fertiliser policy review meeting stated that speedy distribution of Kissan Card was essential to end general subsidy on urea. According to the press statement said, “If we cannot provide subsided essential raw material to the farmers, [then] there is no value of Kissan Card,”. The development comes amid demand for upgradations in existing fertiliser policy was introduced in 2001 as new challenges like depleting reserves are coming up. (“Ministers back Kissan Card to end subsidy on urea,” Dawn, 11 February)

PROVINCES
Government invites opposition again on legislation on South Punjab
On 10 February, vice chairman of PTI and foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi again wrote letters to President Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shahbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urging them to cooperate on legislation regarding the establishment of the new South Punjab province. The letters were sent to the respective chambers of the leaders in the parliament. The letters sought nominated names from the opposition parties who would go on to become part of the standing committee dedicated to draft amendment bill on the creation of the province. (Rizwan Shehzad, “FM Qureshi again invites Shehbaz, Bilawal for legislation on South Punjab,” The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
No provision in the Passport Act to blacklist citizens, says LHC
On 10 February, Lahore High Court (LHC) judge Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh struck down para 51 of the Passport and Visa Manual 2006, which the federal government invokes to blacklist citizens. The judge said that the Passport Act 1974 did not contain any provision for blacklisting and added “Section 8 of the Act empowers the federal government only to cancel, impound or confiscate a passport while ‘blacklisting’ is a separate concept and has a different connotation.” The judge said right to travel is a basic human right now and restrictions, if any should not only be reasonable but also in public interest. (Wajih Ahmed Shiekh, “Passports Act has no provision to blacklist citizens, says judge,” Dawn, 11 February)

Trust deed on Avenfield properties isn’t legally forged, says IHC
On 10 February, while hearing appeals against the conviction of PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz and her husband retired Captain Muhammad Safdar in Avenfield properties reference, the IHC bench dismissed the claim by NAB that the trust deed was forged. The bench comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani said “The trust deed can be termed back-dated or that the font used in the said document was different, but this cannot be called forgery.” The bench questioned the admissibility of the documents received by NAB from the law firm Mossack Fonseca. It questioned whether these letters were admissible under the Pakistani Qanoon-i-Shahadat (law of evidence). ( Malik Asad, “Avenfield trust deed can’t be called forged: IHC,” Dawn, 11 February)

EXTERNAL
Rejects West’s suspicion about CPEC; US always used Pakistan, says PM Khan
On 10 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan during an interview with Dr Eric Li, Director of the Advisory Committee of the China Institute of Fudan University rejected the “suspicion” of the Western countries about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar port. He claimed that both the projects were a great opportunity not only to Pakistan and China, but also to the entire region. Further, on the US he said, “Whenever the US needed us, they established relations, and Pakistan became a frontline state, and then abandoned it and slapped sanctions on us,” adding, “The US helped us at that time, but as soon as the Soviet Union left Afghanistan, the United States imposed sanctions on Pakistan.” (“US always used Pakistan, says PM Imran Khan,” The News International, 11 February 2022) (“PM Imran dismisses West’s suspicion about CPEC,” The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022)

NSA meets with British High commissioner, agree to further strengthen bilateral ties
On 10 February, National Security Advisor (NSA) Dr Moeed Yusuf met with British High commissioner Christian Turner. During the meeting, the two sides agreed that the international community should continue to engaged to avert a humanitarian crisis and economic collapse in Afghanistan. NSA Moeed said, “It will be imperative for the regional and international partners to constructively engage with Afghanistan by supporting the country's economy, reconstruction, rehabilitation and humanitarian needs.” High commissioner Turner said, “The UK government looks forward to strengthening the relationship with Pakistan in years to come by capitalising opportunities to advance shared goals of security, stability, and prosperity in South Asia.” Further, they agreed to further strengthen bilateral ties in multiple spheres, including trade and investment. (“NSA, Turner call on world to avert Afghan crisis,” Dawn, 11 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) approves a revised circular debt management plan (CDMP) for power division
On 10 February, the power division conceded that the projected fiscal requirement of approximately USD 2.56 billion for debt management was unrealistic. To cover up for the required fiscal space an additional Rs2.17 per unit increase in base uniform national electricity tariff in July 2022 was suggested. The statement realised by the CCoE said “During the meeting, the CCOE reviewed the current situation and projections of the power sector circular debt while approving the CDMP, Aligning the CDMP with the latest forecast is a continuous process for accurate monitoring”. (Khaleeq Kiani, “‘Unrealistic’ circular debt management plan revised,” Dawn, 11 February)

ON ENERGY
K-3 nuclear power plant to achieve Commercial Operation Date (COD) by March 2022
On 10 February, a national daily reported that the seventh nuclear power plant, K-3 in the final stages of commissioning under Agreement for Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy’ between the governments of China and Pakistan in 1986 will become operational from March 2022. K-1 has been decommissioned and K-3 post-commissioning will take the total installed capacity to 3620 MW. This commissioning of K-2 and K-3 would increase the share of nuclear power in the energy mix of Pakistan by 10 per cent. (“K-3 nuclear power plant to begin operations from March.” The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022)

“Student unions’ revival”
Dawn, 11 February 2022
The editorial calls for restoring student unions in order to inculcate “a culture of debate and respect for difference of opinion” to take root, which was banned under the Zia regime.

“Saindak approval”
Dawn, 11 February 2022
The Chinese firm working on the Saindak Gold and Copper Mine project in Balochistan has now been issued a 15-year lease renewal by the Economic Coordination Committee. However, Balochistan's ability under the 18th Amendment to make choices about the project and to hold international bids to grant the lease of precious metals mines is infringed by the ECC's decision.

“Drug trafficking in schools”
The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022
“Drug Trafficking incident exemplifies Pakistan’s overall deteriorating society, in which mental illness is on the rise and corruption is widespread,” says the writer.

“Debt per person”
The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022
According to the report by the finance ministry, under the PTI government, debt per person has drastically increased. Additionally, the report seems to have cherry-picked numbers, especially GDP to project the government’s performance look better. However, this is very misleading to the general public.

“The nationality syndrome”
The Express Tribune, 11 February 2022
Following ECP’s order to terminate PTI legislator Faisal Vawda, the debate on dual nationality is rising. Nevertheless, whether we agree with it or not, the law explicitly states that no lawmaker can be a dual national.

“Playing politics”
The News International, 11 February 2022
The editorial identifies “our national political situation appears to have devolved into a situation in which both the ruling party and the opposition are more concerned with power plays than with citizens' rights and present challenges.”

Khwaja Ahmad Hosain, “A house divided”
Dawn, 11 February 2022
The opinion says “Disagreement and debate are considered healthy in a civilian setting. When this turns into personal attacks on colleagues' integrity and behavior, the institution is jeopardized.”

Dr Pervez Tahir, “How low can higher education go”
The Express Tribune,11 February 2022
The author questions “the bad news on economy and polity has overshadowed the worst news on higher education. How low can it go?”

In Brief
POLITICS
“Imran is a coward and is running away from elections,” says Bilawal
On 9 February, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while addressing party workers in Multan, dared Prime Minister Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and announce a fresh election to test his claims of the people being on his side. He said, “Imran is a coward and is running away from elections,” adding that he would not dissolve the assembly because he did not have any public support. (Imran Gabol, “Bilawal dares PM Imran to dissolve NA to test public support for govt,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

PM feeling ‘immense pressure’ of anti-govt march, no-trust move, says PML-N, PPP
On 9 February, the opposition criticized Prime Minister Imran Khan for for sticking to his “thief mantra” since taking office. The PML-N and PPP claimed that PM Khan was feeling “immense pressure” of their planned anti-government march on Islamabad and a no-trust motion to remove him. PML-N information secretary Marriyum Aurangzeb said, “Imran Khan desperately tried and miserably failed to come good to his pledge of being dangerous. The nation has recognised the Imran mafia that calls everyone thieves while looting the people and national wealth with both hands. But now his corrupt and evil deeds are about to send him packing. Imran is whining and screaming.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “Opposition takes PM Imran to task for ‘thief mantra’,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

Opposition could not get required numbers for no-confidence against the government, says Interior Minister
On 9 February, Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said that the opposition could not bring no-confidence motion against the government in last three and half years despite its several claims. He added that the opposition could not defeat the government and that the establishment was completely neutral and stood with the ‘elected’ government. (“Opposition can’t get required numbers for no-trust: Sheikh Rashid,” The News International, 10 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: Students hold demonstration demanding restoration of student unions and reduction in fees
On 9 February, several student organisations held a demonstration demanding restoration of student unions and reduction in fees of all educational institutes in the province. Further, their withdrawal of an affidavit they are asked to sign at the time of admission, pledging to stay away from political activities, free health facility, 50 per cent concession in transport fares on student cards and anti-harassment committees with equal membership of female students. (Imran Gabol, “Demonstration in Lahore for restoration of student unions, reduction in fees,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

Hub dam maintenance to be recovered from Sindh and Balochistan government
On 9 February, National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Water Resources directed the two provinces to pay their liabilities to the Hub Dam authorities within 30 days. Hub Dam was constructed in 1981 and the two provinces never paid for expected cost of the construction in a 1:2 ratio. The Sindh and Balochistan province are to pay PKR 1.211 billion and PKR 541.25 million respectively.  (Khaleeq Kiani, “Sindh, Balochistan told to clear Rs1.75bn Hub Dam dues,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

INTERNAL
190 million Covid-19 vaccines administered across the country, says NCOC
On 9 February, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) announced that 190 million Covid-19 vaccines were administered in the country. According to the NCOC data, over two million doses were administered for the second consecutive day, taking the total number of doses of seven different vaccines given so far to 190,001,984. Meanwhile, the national positivity ratio was recorded at 8.2 per cent. (Ikram Junaidi, “Pakistan administers over 190m doses of Covid-19 vaccines,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

Revival of terrorists will be not allowed at any cost, says COAS
On 9 February, while addressing the 247th Corps Commanders’ conference at the GHQ COAS Qamar Javed Bajwa said, “We have come a long way in our fight against terrorism. Armed Forces, with the support of the nation, have conducted successful operations against terrorists of all hue and colour. Their desperate attempts for revival won’t be allowed to succeed,”. Statement by ISPR said COAS was satisfied with operational preparedness of the formations and directed all formations to concentrate on maintaining high standards of basic military training to ensure effective execution of operations in conventional/sub-conventional domain. (Kamran Yousaf, “COAS vows to crush terrorists’ revival attempts,” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022)

Pakistan Railways' deficit running at USD 68 million
On 9 February, National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Railways was informed by Pakistan Railways (PR) that work on  ML-1 railway line from Karachi to Peshawar had been completed from their side. ML-1 is part of CPEC aimed at overhauling and upgrading the infrastructure on existing lines. The panel was also told by Federal Minister for Railways that deficit had reached USD 68 million. (Waqas Ahmed, “PR deficit stands at Rs12b, NA panel told,” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022)

Pakistan telcos not enthusiastic about government’s plan for launching 5G
On 9 February, the government constituted a high-level committee comprising several important ministers to auction 5G telecom services across the country. The launch is a paradigm shift for the telecommunication companies are yet to upgrade the network with new chips, antennas and upgrades. The IT minister said, “We want to keep all the options open and we will keep the TORs [terms of reference] of 5G license flexible because the 5G launch will benefit the country’s economy and its people, and the telecom companies will also enter the new horizon of technology.” However, Jazz Telecom CEO said, “If there was a demand for faster internet, we can provide that through a more robust 4G infrastructure.” Another senior executive said, “The average revenue per unit was around $8 a decade back which has dropped to $1.50 now, whereas the exchange rate was hitting the investments of companies on infrastructure.” (Kalbe Ali, “Telcos wary of govt’s 5G launch plan,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
Demands for presidential system unconstitutional says LHC
On 10 February, Dawn reported that the Lahore High Court ruled that the demand for a presidential system of government in Pakistan was against the basic structure of the Constitution. This ruling came after Justice Jawad Hassan dismissed a writ petition that sought directions to the cabinet division to decide an application that seeks a referendum for the presidential system in the country. He said, “The writ of mandamus can only be issued, under Article 199 of the Constitution, to a person to do what is required by law to do,” and observed that the plea for holding a referendum goes against the basic structure of the Constitution regarding democracy. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “Demands for presidential system unconstitutional: LHC,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

Media act is being used to curb freedom of expression, says IHC CJ
On 9 February, Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) Chief Justice Athar Minallah claimed that The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 was being used to curb freedom of expression in the country. He made this statement while hearing a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President. He said that Section 6 of the act is against the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan as it would grant the state license to prosecute journalists. (“'Media act being used to curb freedom of expression',” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Government move to facilitate trade with Afghanistan
On 9 February, Afghanistan Inter-Ministerial Coordination Cell chaired by NSA Moeed Yusuf decided to continue the waiver in trade with Afghanistan. The waiver of Electronic Import Form (EIF), a mandatory process of banking transactions for trade purpose would not be required in imports from Afghanistan. (“Govt move to facilitate trade with Afghanistan,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

ECC extends its approval for K-Electric and Metallurgical Construction Corporation (MCC) of China in gas and copper respectively
On 9 February, Economic Coordination Committee headed by Pakistan approved the pricing guidelines for pricing of regasified LNG to be supplied for K-electric as per the measure and regulation of OGRA. In another development in the same meeting, the ECC approved for extension of lease contract between aindak Metals Ltd (SML) and Metallurgical Construction Corporation (MCC) of China for Saindak Copper-Gold Project for another 15 years i.e., until Nov 1, 2037. The ECC also recommended a review of the financial aspect of the project annually by the professional expert agencies. (Khaleeq Kiani, “ECC extends Saindak contract to Chinese firms,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Fiscal deficit surges by 33 per cent
On 9 February, Finance Ministry released asummary report on fiscal health. Due to the requirement of the IMF, there was an uptick in Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and hence led to a surge in deficit. Current expenditures were equal to 92% of the total federal government expenditures and over 38 per cent of them were spent only on paying interest on loans. The budget gap stood at USD 10.545 billion for the first half of the fiscal year, the government has put a target cap of approximately USD 23 billion on the fiscal deficit. (Shahbaz Rana, “Budget gap widens 33% in July-December,” The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022)

ON KASHMIR
NA body condemns international community and UN for “intentional silence over the vicious acts” in Kashmir
On 9 February, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan on condemned rights organisations and the United Nations for their alleged “intentional silence over the vicious acts” in Jammu and Kashmir. Further, the chairman of the committee condemned the Indian forces for their alleged “brutal activities” in JK. Meanwhile, during the meeting the committee scrutinised the budgetary proposals relating to the Public Sector Development Programme for the financial year 2022-23 of the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and GB. (Amir Wasim, “NA body condemns UN over silence on Indian-occupied Kashmir,” Dawn, 10 February 2022)

“UN Report on Terrorism”
Dawn, 10 February 2022
According to the UN report, the first since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan; predicts that past close links between the TTP and Taliban will pose a threat to Pakistan. Moreover, as per the report, TTP and Al Qaeda have collaborated with ETIM, a Uighur extremist group, to attack Chinese strategic interests in this country.

“Vawda’s disqualification”
Dawn, 10 February 2022
The ECP's judgment to bar PTI Senator Faisal Vawda from serving in the legislature for the rest of his life due to his dual nationality is a reminder of effective governance by the judiciary and democratic institutions like ECP.

“Rape for honor”
Dawn, 10 February 2022
The heart of the problem lies “in the institutional acceptance of the archaic idea that a woman marrying a man of her own choice is guilty of bringing ‘dishonor’ to her family or tribe.”

“Pakistan as an honest broker”
The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022
Islamabad, according to the Prime Minister, can help bridge the gap between the United States and China.

Tariq Khosa, “Threats from within”
Dawn, 10 February 2022
To establish a stable and secure Pakistan, free from internal threats, both the state and society must engage in serious dialogue.

Nadia Agha, “Persistent disparity”
Dawn, 10 February 2022
Due to lack of disparities in health and education are stronger which in turn hinders the development of women.

Imtiaz Gul, “Time for us to reciprocate China’s spirit?”
The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022
China’s unflinching support to Pakistan is manifested in the Winter Olympics motto: Together for a shared future.” However, is Pakistan ready to reciprocate?

Dr. Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, “Why insurgencies and terrorism?”
The Express Tribune, 10 February 2022
The state’s relaxed approach has allowed organizations to extend their power and create commotion in the country.

M Asif Khan, “Our disastrous preparedness”
The News International, 10 February 2022
Pakistan cannot afford to overlook, and those responsible for neglect and poor readiness must be held accountable to the nation after years of planning and investment.

In Brief
PROVINCES
Punjab: South Punjab most deprived region in terms of basic services, says UNDP
On 9 February, Dawn reported that according to the ‘South Punjab Regional SDGs Indicators Comparison with Centre and North’ a report prepared by the UNDP in partnership with South Punjab Secretariat states that South Punjab is the most deprived region in the province in terms of basic services, such as sanitation facilities. The report states, “As a result of the study, we now understand that about 55pc of the population is living below 50pc of median income (per capita) in the rural south region of Punjab. Thirty-one per cent of the population in the south is living below the national poverty line whereas this percentage is lower in centre and north Punjab.” (Amin Ahmed, “South Punjab is most deprived region in province: UNDP,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

Sindh: Cabinet’s sub-committee on local government finalises amendments to LG law
On 8 February, the Sindh cabinet’s sub-committee on local government agreed on points to make amendments in the Sindh Local Government (Amendment) Act 2021. This is on account of the Supreme Court’s decision and proposals given by various political parties. Further, the committee decided on that a comprehensive law would be introduced and mayors, municipal committees and town committees would be empowered as much as possible. (“Cabinet body finalises amendments to Sindh LG law,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

Balochistan: PM Khan announces 15 per cent increase in the salaries of FC and Rangers personnel
On 8 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a ceremony in Naushki announced a 15 per cent increase in the salaries of Frontier Corps (FC) and Rangers personnel. He said, "I do realise that the salaried class is facing difficulties and I assure you that we want to [improve] the economic situation so that we are able to further increase people's salaries." Additionally, on Balochistan, he said, "Balochistan is lagging behind [the rest of the country] ... and so, we aim to focus on it and funnel funds to the province as our revenue increases," adding, "We will carry out development work here to such an extent that nobody will listen to elements who provoke people here against the government and armed forces." PM Khan was accompanied by the Balochistan chief minister and governor during which he was given a "detailed briefing" on the security situation in the area. (“PM Imran announces 15pc raise in salaries of FC and Rangers personnel during Naushki visit,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

POLITICS
Shehbaz Sharif meets with MQM leaders; MQM leaders meet with PML-Q
On 8 February, Shehbaz Sharif reached out to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) in an effort to remove the PTI government. During the meeting, Shehbaz suggested that the MQM break ties with PTI. Meanwhile, MQM leaders met the PML-Q leadership and decided to ‘go ahead together’ in the future. (Zulqernain Tahir, “MQM seeks time as Shehbaz tries to woo govt ally,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

Long march and no-confidence move against the PTI government will go side by side, says PPP
On 8 February, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf stated that the PPP’s plans of a long march and no-confidence move against the PTI government will go side by side. He said, “We have both options of long march as well as no-confidence. The long march will be held outside parliament, while the no-confidence option will be used inside parliament.” (“Long march, no-confidence to go side by side: Raja Pervaiz,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

PPP and PML-N senators criticised over corruption and money laundering
On 8 February, prominent leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) were criticised in the Senate over alleged corruption and money laundering. Meanwhile, the opposition raised objections against the absence of the minister as followed to stage a walkout over the same. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “PML-N, PPP criticised in Senate,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

PTI Senator Faisal Vawda disqualified from holding the seat of senator
On 9 February, a three-member bench of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has disqualified PTI’s senator Faisal Vawda for concealing his dual nationality at the time of filing his election nomination papers in 2018. Talking to a news channel former ECP secretary Kanwar Muhammad Dilshad said that Vawda falls into the category of lifetime disqualification like former PM Nawaz Sharif and Jahangir Khan Tareen. (Nausheen Yousaf, “ECP disqualifies PTI's Faisal Vawda in dual nationality case,” The News International, 9 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Educationists question government intention of mishandling HEC
On 8 February, educationists A.H. Nayyar, Pervez Hoodbhoy, columnist Mosharraf Zaidi and former senator Farhatullah Babar held a press conference at the National Press Club. They criticized the resolution passed by the education secretary which mentioned reduced tenure for chairman of Higher Education Commission (HEC), delegation of powers of chairman to executive director. HEC is an autonomous organisation responsible for regulating universities. Pervez Hoodbhoy said that the government was trying to evade accountability of someone as the HEC had received huge funds during war on terror. (Kashif Abbasi, “Govt criticised for clipping powers of HEC chairman, minister defends move,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

TTP still active with up to 5000 fighters, says UN report
On 3 February, UN Security Council Committee concerning Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities sent its report to UNSC secretariat. The report said that TTP continues to operate under Noor Wali Mehsud based in Afghanistan. The report also said that the return of Taliban to Afghanistan could make Afghanistan a safe heaven for Al-Qaeda and number of other terrorist groups in Central Asia and beyond. The report sees a convulsion between Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIP), Al Qaeda, TTP and Jamaat Ansarullah to plan attacks on Chinese interests in Pakistan, Tajikistan and elsewhere”. (Anwar Iqbal, “TTP still active with up to 5,000 fighters: UN,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

ECONOMY
More needs to be done than just levying more taxes: IMF
On 8 February, IMF’s Resident Representative Ms Esther Perez Ruiz said   “We want Pakistan to attain a long-lasting and durable growth. And for this there is need to first endeavour to implement the macroeconomic policies, leading to the country’s economic development,” while speaking to the office-bearers of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She said Pakistan monetary and fiscal policy must promote IMF’s principled values to make sustainable and inclusive growth. (“IMF wants Pakistan to ‘do more’ than just levying taxes,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

WB seeks four prior actions for the second phase of the loan plan
On 8 February, World Bank’s Country Director Najy Benhassine and his team met Finance minister Shaukat Tarin and executives of the Ministry of Finance at the ministry. Under the Resilient Institutions Strengthening Programme (RISE-II), a multi-million program agreed with World Bank Pakistan will focus on strengthening fiscal and debt management institutions and inter-governmental arrangements to improve macro-fiscal stability. For further continuation of the program, four conditions have to be met before WB to continue flow of loan money. The conditions for the authorities are to ensure harmonisation of General Sales Tax (GST) among the federal and provincial governments, control rising debt burden through amendments to the Fiscal Responsibility & Debt Limitation Act 2005, bring uniformity in provincial property valuations for tax purposes and ensure complete clearance of GST refunds. (Khaleeq Kiani, “World Bank seeks ‘actions’ for 2nd phase of loan plan,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Exports to USA, China and UK on a positive trajectory
On 8 February, according to the data released by SBP USA remained the top destination for exports followed by China and UK. Exports to the USA increased by 45.95 per cent to USD 3.32 billion in the first half of FY22. Exports to China during the same period stood at USD 1.33 billion and that to the UK stood at USD 1.14 billion. While exports to Saudi Arabia dropped USD 195.68 million compared to USD 244.23 million in the previous six months. (“Exports to US, China, UK surge,” Dawn, 9 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn explains PTI’s decision to “Brand Imran” to save its sinking political fortunes. It can be well summarized as “the very fact that PTI leaders want Mr. Khan to lead the campaign even for local government polls betrays their nervousness about their party’s electoral chances in view of the public’s frustration.”

An editorial in Dawn on “Ajmal Pahari’s release” says “it is on occasions such as the release of Shahnawaz, better known as Ajmal Pahari, that the public’s trust in the country’s justice system falls to new lows.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Child custody” discusses the proposed amendment of the Guardians and Wards Act of 1890. Reportedly, “if their father is unable to maintain their children, divorced and widowed moms will be entitled to obtain custody of their children under the proposed law.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Indispensable ally” discloses Pakistan and Saudi’s multifaceted relations. The author says, “because it has the underpinning of being state-centric, the all-weather friendship is independent of political narrative.”

An editorial in The News International on “Cross-border attacks” examines the latest UN report compiled by experts; it predicts that Afghanistan has become "a safe haven for extremists with utmost freedom like in no other time in recent history", is concerning. For Pakistan, it implies that TTP’s resurgence is assured.

An opinion in Dawn by Zahid Hussain on “Growing security concerns” iterates that the “attacks by the Baloch insurgents have coincided with increasing TTP militancy.”

An opinion in Dawn titled “A deadly nexus” sheds light on the close link between poverty and environmental deterioration. The author says “together, poverty and environmental degradation are inflicting serious blows by pushing the poor deeper into the quagmire of hunger, malnutrition, disease, and destitution.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Pakistan’s bureaucratic callousness” concludes “Pakistan’s colonial and power hunger bureaucracy has been a great contributor to this degenerative national plight.”

In Brief
POLITICS
Opposition parties’ express serious concerns over the alleged partisan conduct of Senate Chairman
On 7 February, opposition parties in the Senate expressed serious concerns over the alleged partisan conduct of Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani. PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui said, “The joint opposition has decided to play a more dynamic role in the Senate. From now on, violation of the rules and regulations and unabated use of discretionary powers by the chairman will not be allowed.” Further, he said that the opposition was preparing a memorandum regarding its reservations which would be presented to Sanjrani, adding, “If these concerns are not addressed, the next step will be proposed.” (Amir Wasim, “Opposition vows to give tough time to govt in Senate,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

PML-Q refuses to join PPP ‘misadventure’ after Zardari reaches out
On 7 February, Dawn reported that the PML-Q told Asif Ali Zardari that they cannot become part of any “political misadventure” because of their alliance with the PTI. Further, the party stated the PML-Q’s trust deficit with the PML-N leadership is another factor that stops them from forming an alliance. This came after Zardari paid a visit to the Lahore residence of the Chaudhrys to discuss a strategy to oust the incumbent government. (Mansoor Malik, “Govt ally PML-Q refuses to join PPP ‘misadventure’,” Dawn, 8 February 2022) (Rizwan Shehzad, “Zardari reaches out to PML-Q for support,” The Express Tribune, 8 February 2022)

People have no better option than PTI, says PM Khan
On 7 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan during a meeting directed the party leadership to get ready for the local body polls. In this regard, he announced the start of a mass-contact campaign in which he will hold public meetings across the country. Further, he claimed that that the people of Pakistan have “no better option than the PTI.” (“People have no better option than PTI: Imran,” The Express Tribune, 8 February 2022) (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran to kick off ‘pre-poll’ roadshow,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

Maulana Fazlur criticizes the federal government for ‘mortgaging’ the SBP to IMF
On 7 February, Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticised the federal government for ‘mortgaging’ the State Bank of Pakistan to the International Monetary Fund for getting a loan. He said, “The State Bank of Pakistan is not answerable to Pakistan [after debt agreement with the IMF].” Further, he criticized the PTI government for ‘poor’ economic policies and burdening the taxpayers. (Muhammad Irfan Mughal, “Maulana Fazl flays govt for ‘mortgaging’ State Bank to IMF,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Finance minister meets BoD of K-Electric over privatization
On 7 February, Shaukat Tarin met investors of K-Electric and assured them to clear the way for privatization. Important approvals and major stake of the company had been stalled by delays in government clearance. The majority stake is to be given to Shanghai Electric Power. The power purchase agreement of the government with K-Electric had expired in 2015 and that is also waiting for approval. (Zafar Bhutta, “Govt to clear way for K-Electric’s sale,” The Express Tribune, 8 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Families of missing persons hold protests in Swat
On 7 February, families of the missing persons held a demonstration in front of the Swat Press Club demanding the authorities to let them know about their whereabouts. Further, they appealed to the Chief Justice of Pakistan, the army chief and the prime minister to help in tracing the whereabouts of the missing persons. (“Family members of missing persons protest in Swat,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

Balochistan: Remotely donated bomb explosion injures two FC officials
On 7 February, two frontier corps officials were injured while conducting a routine patrol in Quetta. The bomb was fitted in a bike parked near the road. The Interior minister while referring to the uptick of terrorist attacks in Balochistan said, “I do not want to comment on the talks here. The Taliban have intervened but the incidents that occurred in the past week could increase. They could rise [further],”. (Ghalib Nihad, “Two Frontier Corps officials injured in bomb blast on Quetta's Sariab Road,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

Balochistan: A total of 84 people involved in illegal fishing were arrested in one day
On 7 February, the provincial fisheries department, the Maritime Security Agency and Pakistan Coast Guards arrested the people involved in illegal fishing and seized four trawlers. The action and patrolling have increased after a month long sit in protest against several issues including illegal fishing trawlers. (Behram Baloch, “84 people involved in illegal fishing arrested near Gwadar,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Chinese investors exempted from about 37 approvals for investment projects
On 7 February, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on CPEC Khalid Mansoor announced that Pakistan has decided to exempt Chinese investors from about 37 approvals for investment projects. Further, he stated that China has promised to consider request for debt rollover, extension in currency swap, additional financial support. He stated that this was “the highest-level communication” Prime Minister Imran Khan had with the Chinese political and business leadership during his visit to the country. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Chinese investors exempted from project approvals,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

COAS meets with Saudi Arabia’s Interior Minister
On 7 February, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with the Interior Minister of Saudi Arabia Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud Bin Naif Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud in Rawalpindi. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, the current situation in Afghanistan and bilateral defence relations between the two countries were discussed. Further, COAS Bajwa stated that Pakistan values its historical and brotherly relations with Saudi Arabia and acknowledges its unique place in the Islamic world. (“Pakistan values historical, brotherly ties with Saudi Arabia: COAS,” The Express Tribune, 8 February 2022)'

ECONOMY
RDA inflows rise to 38 per cent on a year-on-year basis in January
SBP released the data on Roshan Digital Account inflows. The data showed that for the month of January 2022 the inflows amounted to USD 222 million, higher by USD 61 million in the January month of 2021. So far around USD 3.38 billion have been received since the start of the scheme in September 2020. A major chunk of these funds is parked in Naya Pakistan Certificates which offer a lucrative return in dollars as high as at the rate of 6.5 per cent annually. (Kazim Alam, “Roshan Digital Account inflows jump 38pc in January,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

Government pays USD 1.353 billion in the first quarter of FY22
On 7 February Ministry of Economic Affairs (EAD) shared its report on foreign economic assistance and subsequent disbursement of loan repayment for the first quarter. USD 1.036 billion were paid in form of principal payment while USD 317 million were paid in form of interest amount. Commercial banks received the highest share of disbursement (USD 427 million) followed by World Bank (USD 292 million), ADB (USD 273 million), IMF (USD 259 million) and subsequently others. Total assistance received was USD 3.216 billion, 50 per cent of this amount was sought from multilateral partners. The Foreign Economic Assistance (EFA) is mainly received in the shape of programme financing, budgetary support, project financing and commodity financing. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan services $1.353bn foreign loans in July-Sept,” The News International, 8 February 2022)

ON AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan senate calls for averting humanitarian crises in Afghanistan
On 7 February, Senator Mushtaq Ahmad of the Jamaat-i-Islami moved a motion to discuss the developing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and its role and impact on Pakistan. The motion brought uniform consensus of members from both sides of the aisle. Discussion on talks with TTP and their role in bringing insurgents in Balochistan was also discussed. (Iftikhar A Khan, “Afghan humanitarian crisis to affect Pakistan, warn senators,” Dawn, 8 February 2022)

ON SPORTS
Full Australian squad named for Pakistan tour
On 7 February, Cricket Australia (CA) has named the squad of players who will be touring Pakistan, the team comprises the same members who won the Ashes recently. The only addition is spinner Ashton Agar. Australian Cricketers' Association chief Todd Greenberg said “It's a very important tour. The players completely understand our contribution to the global game and we don't have an expectation that we can sit here and expect teams to tour our country and not contribute ourselves." (“Pak vs Aus: Full-strength squad named for Pakistan tour,” The News International, 8 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn titled “Meeting IMF demands”  says that it would be a mistake to assume that Pakistan had met all the IMF demands through “prior action.” Nevertheless, “more conditions directly affecting the low-to-middle income segments of the population have yet to be implemented,” says the author.

An editorial in Dawn on “CPEC concerns” highlights that the entire project has lost its initial momentum, further creating “anxiety” due to lessened attention given to it today.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Educated but unemployed” provides an insight into the dire situation of unemployment figures. The editorial lists; “the lack of sufficient investment, worsening energy crisis, unsatisfactory education system and the demographic explosion” as the reasons behind it.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Cementing CPEC-II” says “Islamabad made its geostrategic inclinations loud and clear by rallying behind Beijing.”

An opinion in Dawn by Arifa Noor asks “Will the PPP and PML-N achieve anything more this time except for adding to the pressure on Khan?”

An opinion in Dawn on “SBP autonomy” examines the claims made between the opposition and the ruling. The opposition says it “will give the IMF sway over the SBP and on the other hand, PTI claims it to be a key bill to enhance SBP efficacy. Who’s right?”

An opinion in The Express Tribune writes “questions are not about converting PM House into a university but how we think about technology and higher education.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune draws an important analysis on the nexus between exports and tax investment. “A lucid understanding of the tax-investment-exports nexus is essential for achieving sustainable economic growth alongside strengthening PKR against foreign currencies,” speaks the author. 

An opinion in The News International declares that “Pakistan’s second war against terror began sometime in 2020 or 2021, much like the first one began without anyone in Pakistan wanting to acknowledge that a new war had begun.”

In Brief

PM’s VISIT TO CHINA
Relation with China ‘cornerstone’ of Pakistan’s foreign policy, says PM Khan
On 6 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan on concluding his official visit to China stated that the Pakistan-China relationship was “the cornerstone of its foreign policy” as Islamabad and Beijing reaffirm their support on issues “concerning each other’s core interests.”

During his visit, PM Khan met with Chinese premier, leaders of several countries and chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission. Further, he also met with corporate leaders and investors.

According to a 33-point joint statement released after the meeting of PM Imran with Chinese President Xi Jinping, “The leaders of the two countries held in-depth exchange of views on the entire spectrum of bilateral relations as well as the regional situation and international political landscape.” It added, the Pakistan side expressed its “commitment to One-China Policy and support for China on Taiwan, South China Sea, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet,” while, “The Chinese side reaffirmed its support for Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence and security, as well as promoting its socio-economic development and prosperity.”  

The two signed agreements and memorandum of understanding in the fields of trade, infrastructure, industrial development, agriculture modernisation, science and technology and socio-economic well-being of local people.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi while terming the visit as “extremely successful and productive, more than their expectations” stated that he would be going on a follow-up visit to Beijing in March where he would also participate in a conference of the “immediate neighbours of Afghanistan.” (Amir Wasim, “FM Qureshi says will make follow-up visit to China next month,” Dawn, 7 February 2022) (Kamran Yousaf, “Ties with China 'cornerstone' of Pakistan’s foreign policy: PM,” The Express Tribune, 7 February 2022) (“Pakistan, China pledge to maintain defence cooperation momentum,” The News International, 7 February 2022) ( Syed Irfan Raza, “Islamabad, Beijing vow to boost links at all levels,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

POLITICS
People have already lost trust in the government, says Bilawal
On 6 February, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari while addressing a public meeting in Naseerabad, Balochistan claimed that the people have already lost trust in the PTI government, adding that it was high time the parliament showed the door to the ‘selected’ rulers by expressing no confidence in the government. Further, he said that the PPP would launch a long march for the protection of the democratic rights of the people. (Ali Jan Mangi, “PTI govt has lost people’s trust: Bilawal,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry in response to Bilawal’s statements said, “The situation for the opposition will deteriorate even further because no conspiracy against Prime Minister Imran will ever succeed,” adding, “ties between them [opposition factions] have deepened ever since billions of rupees unearthed from the bank account of Maqsood chaprasi. Bilawal is under the wrong impression… he can't launch a short march, let alone a long one.” Further he sarcastically offered to provide “camels and horses” for the PPP’s long march. (“Fawad offers ‘camels and horses’ for PPP’s long march,” The Express Tribune, 7 February 2022) (“Bilawal incapable to lead even 'short march’ let alone a long one: Fawad,” The Express Tribune, 7 February 2022)

PML-Q promises to continue supporting the PTI
On 7 February, Dawn reported that the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) has promised to continue supporting the PTI governments at the Centre and in Punjab. PML-Q leader and Punjab Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi said, “Prime Minister Imran Khan is an honest man and has sincere intentions to serve the country and masses.” Further, he added that did not see any no-trust move coming against the PTI government. (Waseem Ashraf Butt, “PML-Q reassures PTI govt of its support,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

MQM-P and ANP agreed to join hands for strengthening democracy and other causes
On 6 February, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM-P) and Awami National Party (ANP) during a briefing stated that they had agreed to join hands for strengthening of democracy, elimination of terrorism and devolution of power to the grassroots level in the country. Further, they stated that both parties had decided to forget the past mistakes, adding that there might be a difference of opinion in politics but there was no confrontation between ANP and MQM. (“ANP, MQM ready to forget past ‘mistakes’,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

PML-N to mull on no-confidence motion proposed by PPP
On 7 February, the PML-N stalwarts are to discuss the no-confidence motion proposed by the PPP. The development becomes interesting as PML-N has to weigh the option of waiting and gaining more legitimacy over abrupt elections. The decision is also important for the future of the Pakistan democratic movement. (“PML-N bigwigs discuss PPP proposal on no-trust move today,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Five soldiers killed as terrorist target post in Kurram
On 7 February, Dawn reported that five soldiers were killed and four others were injured when terrorists from across the Afghan border attacked a post in Kurram tribal district. Following the attacks, the Inter-Services Public Relations stated that Pakistan strongly condemned the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for activities against Pakistan and expected the Afghan government not to allow such activities in future. (“Five soldiers martyred as Afghan-based terrorists target post in Kurram,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

Balochistan: CM Bizenjo visit Frontier Corps camp in Nushki
On 6 February, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo and Senate Chairman Mohammad Sadiq Sanjrani visited the Frontier Corps headquarters and paid tribute to the martyrs and soldiers who repulsed armed attacks in Panjgur and Nushki areas and killed the terrorists behind the assaults. He said, “The terrorist incidents in Nushki and Panjgur are a clear example of this, where the FC soldiers secretly punished the terrorists who carried out the cowardly attacks and also sacrificed their lives to protect the homeland.” (“CM Bizenjo, Sanjrani visit FC camp in Nushki,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

Balochistan: Methane gas explosion in a mine in Quetta kills five workers
On 5 February, officials of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority informed that due to accumulation of methane gas in coal mine some 300 feet inside the mine caused an explosion and killed five workers. The mine was closed and enquiry has been ordered into the incident. (“Five workers killed in Quetta coal mine explosion,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
IHC to deliberate on petitions against ICT local governance today
On 7 February, the Islamabad High Court is to take petitions against Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Local Government Ordinance 2021 passed by the PTI government. The metropolitan corporation Islamabad ceased to exist on 15 February 2021 and the current legislation is yet again time-barred. It does not provide tenure protection to the elected local government. (Malik Asad, “IHC takes up petitions against ICT local govt ordinance today,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

ECONOMY
New taxes to be proposed in the budget for achieving revenue targets
On 7 February, a national daily reported that the upcoming budget would entail additional taxes worth USD 2.451 billion and added revenue target of around USD 8.835 billion. The raised target are in consonance with article IV consultation with IMF which has imposed additional six conditions on Pakistan. In its evaluation, IMF noted, “several quantitative criteria were missed and gaps in implementing particularly the fiscal and structural reform agenda arose amid challenging circumstances, including the Covid-19 pandemic and spillovers from Afghanistan, but also a waning decisiveness to push forward agreed reforms.” (Khaleeq Qiani, “New taxes worth Rs430bn mooted in next budget,” Dawn, 7 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn titled “Quiet diplomacy” highlights Major General Babar Iftikhar’s rejection of the statement given by the Indian Army chief on a ceasefire between the two countries. However, the author agrees that Backchannel diplomacy has resulted in “encouraging results” among the two.

An editorial in Dawn on “Xi-Putin Summit” sends out “a strong message to the West, that China and Russia are displaying convergence on a number of key global issues.”

An editorial in Dawn titled “Unauthorised plates” highlights “initiation of strict action against violators of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance pertaining to fabricated vehicle number plates.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune emphasizes due to the lack of governmental institutions, several private universities have taken over. However, these universities are set up “without receiving accreditation from the Higher Education Commission.”

An editorial in The News International titled “The opposition returns” stresses on the PPP and PML-N’s decision to unite in order to facilitate the launch of a no-confidence movement against PTI is a realization to “up the optics game as joint opposition”

An opinion in Dawn on “Dilemmas of opposition” by Maleeha Lodhi writes “an effective opposition will need to resolve its internal problems and offer real policy alternatives.”

An opinion in Dawn on Punjab’s aborted devolution plan, the author writes “the key issue now is the design of the local government itself. This is particularly concerning for Punjab.”

An opinion in Dawn by Huma Yusuf believes after the PM termed 2022 as the “year of the youth,” however the implications on policy changes or resource allocation are skeptical. Moreover, she thinks that “those with dreams are wondering where to turn.”

An opinion in Dawn by Muhammad Amir Rana, a security analyst tries to answer “why Pakistan has chosen to put together pieces of its security approaches in the first place.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Truth, trust, and democracy” draws a parallel between “what is happening in the United States has relevance for a country such as Pakistan”

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Pakistan’s war on terror- II” speaks “Baloch insurgency has always been backed by regional and extra-regional players.”

In Brief
POLITICS
Shehbaz contacts Bilawal for a luncheon
On 5 February, Dawn reported that Shehbaz Sharif contacted Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and invited him for a luncheon meeting. The two leaders are to have discussed the current national political scenario. (“Bilawal accepts Shehbaz’s lunch invitation,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Earthquake tremors felt in parts of Pakistan
On 5 February, Pakistan Meteorological Department stated that tremors were felt in Islamabad and adjoining areas after an earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck the Hindukush region. According to the PMD, the earthquake had a depth of 210 kilometres with its epicentre in Afghanistan. (“Earthquake tremors felt in parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad and Peshawar,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

Special Medical Board retained by Punjab Cabinet on suggestion from AGP
On 4 February, Panjab government decided to retain SMB to assess and give its opinion about Nawaz Sharif’s physical health condition and capacity to travel back to Pakistan from the UK. One officer Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department said, “Mr Sharif’s medical reports submitted by Dr Shawl have been sent to the SMB headed by professor of medicine Dr Muhammad Arif Naeem to assess and give its opinion for onward submission to the Attorney General of Pakistan through the Punjab home department,”. (Mansoor Malik, “Punjab govt retains medical board to assess Nawaz’s health,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: CM removes SSP for crackdown on MQM-P rally
On 4 February, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah ordered inspector general of police to remove SSP-South and order disciplinary proceedings against the officer. This came after an inquiry report found him responsible for leading a police crackdown on Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan workers who had staged a protest against the local government law outside CM House earlier in January. (Imran Ayub, “Murad Ali Shah removes SSP for crackdown on MQM-P rally in red zone,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

Balochistan: Terrorist are delusional in the province, says CM
On 4 February, Chief Minister Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo stated that elements involved in the terrorist attack in Panjgur and Nushki will be brought to justice. He announced compensation for the party workers of JUI-N who died in the Science College bomb blast last month. Separately, DG ISPR shared that security forces killed three terrorists in clearance operation after getting a major intelligence tip-off in Kech district of Balochistan. The statement said, “Security forces encircled the well dug out [hideout] and [engaged] in an intense exchange of fire.” (“Three terrorists killed in clearance operation in Balochistan's Kech: ISPR,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Second phase of LG elections suspended after Peshawar High Court order
On 4 February, Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) directed all the ECP staff and returning officers to not issue public notices till further orders. The judgement from the PHC had come due to petitions filed which maintained that five districts in Hazara division were snowbound and that will not enable effective electoral participation. Meanwhile Jamaat-i-Islami KP leader said that the party will approach Supreme Court to challenge the PHC decision. (Mohammad Ashfaq, “Process for next phase of KP LG elections suspended,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
Armed forces are regulated under constitutional provisions, says CJP
On 4 February, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Umer Ata Bandial stated that the armed forces are regulated under constitutional provisions and are called to help civilian democratic institutions under special circumstances. (“Armed forces regulated under constitutional provisions: CJP,” The News International, 5 February 2022)

Review petitions against Justice Isa rejected in minority judgment
On 4 February, Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial dismissed all the review petitions and upheld its earlier short order of June 19, 2020, as well as the subsequent detailed reasons in their entirety. He said “Judges occupy an exalted position in society as dispensers of justice. They are amongst the elites in society. Therefore, neglecting their duty to search and confront the truth goes against the express command of Almighty Allah who has warned against providing preferential treatment to privileged persons,” Justice Bandial mentioned that all materials require an explanation before supreme judicial council (SJC) to maintain the integrity of Justice Isa. (“Minority judgement in Justice Qazi Faez Isa case rejects all review petitions,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

ECONOMY
IMF demands six more requirements in its detailed report
On 4 February, IMF slapped six new conditions on Pakistan to continue in enabling Pakistan dealing with structural reforms. First, increasing individual income tax rates and reduce both the number of rates and income tax brackets to enlarge tax net, second, establish develop finance institution to reduce SBP burden of refinance facilities, third, to finish the recapitalisation of the two private sector banks that are undercapitalised, fourth, to keep working on the energy subsidy reform for residential consumers i.e., to increase the effective tariff of the unprotected slabs by at least 50 paisas per unit, fifth, to seek parliamentary approval of new state-owned enterprises law in line with the IMF recommendations and lastly, new regulations for companies awarded public procurement contracts for Rs50 million and above. (Shahbaz Rana, “IMF slaps six new conditions on Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 5 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
BoI and NDRC sign agreement for industrial cooperation
On 4 February, Pakistan’s Board of Investment (BoI) and China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) signed a ‘Framework Agreement on Industrial Cooperation’ that would facilitate relocation of industries and investment from China to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Pakistan. This agreement came after PM Khan held a series of meetings with executives of China’s leading state-owned and private companies, interacted with NDRC chairman He Lifeng to discuss on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. (Amin Ahmed, “Accord signed with China for industrial cooperation,” Dawn, 5 February 2022)

ON SPORTS
Australia to tour Pakistan for a month to play cricket
On 4 February, Cricket Australia confirmed its month-long tour which would comprise three tests, one odi series of three matches and a T20 match as the last leg of the tour. This is fist time after 24 years when Australia will challenge Pakistan at its home turf. (“Australia confirm first Pakistan tour in 24 years,” The Express Tribune, 5 February 2022)

ON INDIA
PM Khan calls on international community to stop India's alleged “genocidal acts” in J&K
On 5 February, in view of ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “It is time the world takes notice of India's grave human rights violations in IIOJK which include crimes against humanity, war crimes & genocidal acts as well as the threat of forced demographic change.” He alleged that such actions were a “complete violation” of the Geneva Convention. Further, he said, “Pakistan stands united with our Kashmiri brothers & sisters and committed to their legitimate struggle for self-determination. Modi's fascist policies of oppression & violence have failed to crush the spirit of the Kashmiri resistance in IoK.” Meanwhile, the Senate adopted a resolution urging India to reverse the actions it initiated on and after 5 August 2019. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Pakistan calls upon India to reverse Aug 5 actions,” Dawn, 5 February 2022) (“PM Imran reaffirms Pakistan's support, calls on world to stop India's 'genocidal acts' in IoK on Kashmir Day,” Dawn, 5 February 2022) 

An editorial in Dawn highlights the new report findings compiled by Sindh Suhai Sath, a local NGO on “honor killings”. The report found 48 men and 128 women were murdered by their immediate families last year.

An editorial in Dawn sheds light on “IHC’s verdict” terminated allotment of plots for judges and bureaucrats. The essence is that “land allotments must e made with a view to providing shelter and not in conformity with the powerful.”

An editorial in Dawn applauds State Bank’s effort to digitization of financial services through Raast, an instant payment system. The system is expected “to trigger a huge transformation of the financial services in Pakistan by providing an efficient infrastructure for fund transfers.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune talks about the uptick in terrorist activities in Balochistan. The author believes “dissent in the under-developed province makes it easy for the enemy to tap the resentment among youth.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Protecting trees” emphasizes Rawalpindi administration actions following Lahore High Court orders on banning deforestation in the regions of the mountain and hill areas.

An opinion in Dawn by Fahd Husain writes “the next 60 days, and the 60 after that is crucial for PTI, PML-N, PPP, and JUI-F.”

An opinion in Dawn on “Another scam in the making” by Pervez Hoodbhoy says Pakistan University of Engineering & Emerging Technologies to be constructed at “PM house is unworkable, wildly extravagant, and must be stopped.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune iterates “an economic consensus is happening behind the super-charged political posturing.” The author believes that "whichever party comes to power after elections will have its role pre-ordained."

An opinion in The Express Tribune underlines “the readjustment and realignment of the Durand Line would be fatal for Afghanistan.”

In Brief
PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two Police officers killed in Nowshera
On 3 February, two policemen were killed and one was injured after unidentified attackers opened fire on a checkpoint in Jalozai area of Nowshera district. According to Nowshera district police officer three armed men had opened fire on the policemen with pistols when they were signaled to stop for checking. (“Two policemen martyred in Nowshera,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

Balochistan: 13 terrorists killed in cleanup operation
On 4 February, Dawn reported that the Inter-Services Public Relations has stated that security forces have killed 13 terrorists while “successfully” repulsing two separate attacks in Panjgur and Naushki districts of Balochistan. The ISPR claimed that communication between the terrorists and their handlers allegedly in India and Afghanistan was also intercepted. (“Security forces kill 13 terrorists in cleanup operation,” The Express Tribune, 4 February 2022)

Punjab: Cabinet approves investment in RUDA industrial zones among other important developments
On 3 February, cabinet committee of the province entered into an agreement with a Saudi investor for investment in industrial zones 2A and 3A under Ruda. The cabinet committee reviewed and approved the Punjab Aquaculture Development Corporation Act 2021, transfer policy of special education department, sale of 15,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Gilgit-Baltistan. An approval to conduct a door-to-door survey of Benazir income support program was also given to education department. (“Punjab cabinet panel approves investment in Ruda industrial zones,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

Punjab: PM recommends making effective LG system in Punjab
On 3 February, PM Imran Khan directed the Punjab government to ensure an effective and public welfare-oriented local government (LG) system in the province. He said “directed the Punjab government to ensure an effective and public welfare-oriented local government (LG) system in the province.” He was convinced that effective local government enable in national development. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran asks Punjab to make LG system effective,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

POLITICS
Opposition rants at government for failing to implement NAP for rising terrorist attacks
On 3 February, opposition was in one tone over government’s failure to implement National Action Plan to contain and eradicate terrorism. PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari said, “We need to eradicate nurseries of terrorists. The ones who are attacking soldiers are enemies of the country and the nation. The soldiers are the proud sons of the nation,”. (Amir Wasim, “Non-enforcement of security plan blamed for rising terrorism,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

INTERNAL
New proposed civil service rules to bar holding dual nationality
On 3 February, Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat was apprised of the ‘The Civil Servants (Amendment) Bill, 2021’ moved by Senator Afnan Ullah Khan. The bill was introduced during parliament sitting on 17 January. The debate on serving government and having a dual nationality has been building up in Pakistan. Dual nationality holder officers are currently working in interior division, power division, aviation division, finance division, petroleum, commerce ministry, establishment division, information ministry, railway and others. (Malik Asad, “Amendment barring dual nationals to impact 20,000 bureaucrats,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

Punjab government asked to produce fresh medical report of Nawaz Sharif
On 3 February, attorney general of Pakistan (AGP) requested the provincial government to produce the fresh medical reports of Nawaz Sharif before the special medical board for evaluation. Both Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif had given undertakings and commitment before Lahore High Court which enabled Nawaz to leave the country on medical grounds. (Nasir Iqbal, “AGP wants Punjab’s special board to examine Nawaz’s reports,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan still a strategic partner, says the US State Department
On 3 February, the US Department of State spokesperson Ned Price during a press briefing said, “Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it’s a relationship that we value across a number of fronts.” Further, on Pakistan’s close relations with China he said, “We’ve made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country around the world to choose between the United States and China,” adding, “It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.” (Anwar Iqbal, “Pakistan still a strategic partner, reaffirms US,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

PM Khan arrives in China
On 4 February, Prime Minister Imran Khan was received by Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Jianghao, Chinese Ambassador Wu Jie and Pakistan's Ambassador to China Moinul Haq on his arrival in China. PM Khan who is on a four-day official visit will be attending the opening ceremony of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and hold bilateral meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. The meetings are likely to focus on the promotion of trade and economic cooperation, CPEC and other regional and international matters. (“PM Imran Khan reaches China on four-day visit,” The News International, 4 February 2022)

Balochistan CM meets with British High Commissioner, agree to increase British investment in various sectors
On 3 February, Chief Minister Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo met with British High Commissioner Christian Turner in Balochistan. During the meeting, the two sides agreed to increase British investment in various sectors in the province. Additioanlly, they agreed that Balochistan’s Board of Investment and Trade would consult the British Deputy High Commissioner for trade for follow-up measures. Further, Turner mentioned the stance of the Balochistan government on Reko-Diq project and stated that resumption of work on the site would strengthen confidence of foreign investors in Balochistan. (“Britain to increase investment in Balochistan,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to operationalise oil facility
On 3 February, Federal Economic Affairs Minister Omar Ayub met with Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki in Islamabad. During the meeting the two sides agreed to operationalise the Saudi Arabia’s oil facility for which previously an agreement worth USD 1.2 billion for the import of petroleum products was signed on 29 November 2021, between the two countries. According to the agreement, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) will extend the financing facility up to USD 100 million per month for one year for the purchase of petroleum products on a deferred payment basis. (Irshad Ansari, “Islamabad, Riyadh agree to step up oil facility,” The Express Tribune, 4 February 2022)

ON CPEC
Parliamentary committee for CPEC call for joint dispensation of security mechanism
On 3 February, the National Assembly’s Parliamentary Committee on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) during a meeting noted that most of the burden of security was being taken by the army. The committed called on the police and other stakeholders to also play their role in dispensation of security mechanism. Additionally, the committee recommended that the meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on security of CPEC should be held regularly. (Jamal Shahid, “Joint Working Group on CPEC’s security urged to meet regularly,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Inflation and current account deficit to remain two major problems for current year: SBP Governor
On 3 February, while speaking at a forum organised by Swiss embassy in Islamabad, SBP Governor Reza Baqir said the economic growth in Pakistan could come down to 4.5 per cent. He said that Pakistan will bear this downgrowth and inflation and CAD could be responsible for that. According to IMF the inflation is to remain in double digit for the year and would pick up more pace before gradually waning down. In midst of high inflation IMF has demanded a requirement to increase the gross official foreign exchange reserves to USD 21.2 billion by June 30, which currently stands at around USD 16 billion. The governor also responded to queries of foreign dignitaries present in the event. (Shahbaz Rana, “Growth may slow down to 4.5%: Baqir,” The Express Tribune, 4 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
PHC seeks records of three judges for elevation as additional judges of the high court
On 3 February, the Peshawar High Court sought records of the proceedings of the parliamentary committee on the judges’ appointment regarding the non-confirmation of three judicial officers for elevation as additional judges of the high court. The came as the bench was while hearing two petitions that challenged the decision of the parliamentary committee against confirming the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) for the judges’ appointment. Further, the petition asked court to declare the decision of the parliamentary committee of not confirming the JCP-recommended names as high court to declare unconstitutional and illegal. (Jamal Shahid, “Peshawar High Court seeks record in judges appointment case,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

IHC declares housing projects for judges and bureaucrats in Islamabad as illegal
On 3 February, while dealing with two identical petitions, the two-judge bench comprising of Chief Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani gave the judgment in the petitioner favour. The judgement declared allotment of plots at subsidised rates by the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) in sectors F-14 and F-15 of Islamabad as illegal. The court said “Surprisingly, the list of successful beneficiaries posted on the website included senior members of the bureaucracy and serving and retired judges of the superior judiciary. Virtually every judge of the district judiciary of Islamabad was amongst the beneficiaries. Ironically, they included judicial officers who were kept under observation either for incompetence or having questionable repute. It also included those judicial officers who were dismissed from service pursuant to disciplinary proceedings or who had opted to resign,”. (Malik Asad, “IHC strikes down subsidised plots for judges, bureaucrats,” Dawn, 4 February 2022)

ON INDIA
DG ISPR condemns ceasefire claim from Indian COAS as misleading
On 3 February, following the claim made by Indian COAS that ceasefire at LoC was due to India’s position of strength DG ISPR tweeted back on the claim. He said, “Indian COAS claiming LOC ceasefire holding because they negotiated from position of strength,is clearly misleading. It was agreed only due to Pak’s concerns 4 safety of ppl of Kashmir living on both sides of LOC. No side should misconstrue it as their strength or other’s weakness.” (“Indian COAS' claim on LOC ceasefire negotiation misleading: DG ISPR,” The Express Tribune, 4 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn on “More attacks” in Balochistan stresses on not just an increase in the number of attacks but also deadlier than ever. “The Baloch insurgents seem to have to change their tactics and have upped the ante, throwing a huge challenge to Pakistan’s security forces and intelligence agencies”, says the author.

 An editorial in Dawn titled “Tough IMF demands” seeks the government to “increase its focus on measures to strengthen productivity, investment, and private sector development, reform state-owned enterprises”. The only question is; if PTI can deliver all of this in an already sorry state of the economy.

 An editorial in The Express Tribune iterates that because of systemic faults, ordinary citizens are yet to reap the benefits of large profits made by the business class.

 An editorial in The News International on “Judicial work” claims that the judiciary is plagued by two important challenges; scandalisation of judges and a massive backlog of pending cases. With the new CJP, the hopes of the judiciary have heightened.

 An opinion in Dawn poses an important question: “Why this urge to control and police dress, body, communication and interaction and why can they not be trusted to make good decisions about their conduct on campus?”

 An opinion in Dawn on Justice Ayesha Malik’s appointment is skeptical that “a single induction will magically erase the considerable obstacle faced by women lawyers throughout the country.”

 An opinion in Dawn on “State of Justice” writes that with the appointment of Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, “the long-suffering ethnic voices are screaming out, yet again, asking to be heard.”

 An opinion in The Express Tribune declares that “corruption and elite capture provide only a partial explanation for why Pakistan remains debt-ridden and inequitable.”

In Brief
INTERNAL
NSP document is not static and government is open to constructive criticism
On 2 February Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs Andleeb Abbas mentioned that the NSP was an open document and government was open to review it. Opposition parties had demanded extensive discussion on the document which could never take place. The secretary said that objective of the NSP was to leverage the symbiotic relationship between human security, economic security and military security. (Rizwan Shehzad, “Govt open to ‘revisiting NSP,” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2022)

POLITICS
Interior minister rejects comments on presidential system or imposes a state of emergency
On 3 February, Dawn reported that Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed rejected the idea that there are plans introduce the presidential system or impose a state of emergency in the country, terming them “nothing more than rumours.” Further, on the opposition to the PTI, he said, “If anyone is interested in bringing a no-confidence motion against the PM, they can go for it. It is up to the opposition to garner the support of members in sufficient number.” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Interior minister rules out presidential system, state of emergency,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

FGEHA prefers patwari system over digitised land records, says official
On 3 February, Dawn while speaking to Former FGEHA IT director Najam Alvi said that despite the PTI’s commitment to removing the patwari system, it seems the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) is not interested in digitising land records and making the land acquisition process more transparent. However, FGEHA Director General Tariq Rashid while speaking to Dawn said that the authority was committed to the digitisation of land records and stating that a ‘Request for Proposals’ had been issued for the purpose, however, that they were not been able to find a suitable firm to carry out the project. (Malik Asad, “Govt body prefers patwari system over digitised land records,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: CM promises to take every opposition party on board over LG law
On 2 February, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said that in order to further amend the local government law in its ‘true’ spirit “we will incorporate the suggestions of the opposition, Jamaat-i-Islami, Pak Sarzameen Party and others in the LG law as has been agreed by the minister in his talks with them.” Further, he said, “When the MQM held protest outside CM House, the same night I called Aminul Haq to condemn whatever happened with them and offered him that we could hold talks on whatever demands they have regarding local government law. You would surprise to know that he appreciated my offer, but then never came up with any response.” (Imran Ayub, “CM Murad pledges to take opposition parties on board over LG law,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: PPP wins Abbottabad Cantonment Board slot with PTI support
On 2 February, PPP and PTI jointly defeat the PML-N candidate in the election for the office of vice-president of Cantonment Board, Abbottabad. According to Dawn’s sources, the PPP nominee was elected vice-president with the support of PTI members. (“PPP wins Abbottabad Cantonment Board slot,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

Balochistan: Two terrorist attacks repulsed in Panjgur and Noshki, says ISPR
On 2 February, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that terrorist attempted to attack security forces' camps in Balochistan's Panjgur and Noshki in two separate attacks however, both attacks were successfully repulsed while inflicting heavy casualties to terrorists. According to the ISPR, in Panjgur, terrorists tried to enter a security forces' camp from two locations, “However, timely response by troops foiled terrorist attempt. During intense exchange of fire one soldier has been martyred. Terrorists have fled while their casualties are being ascertained.” Similarly, in Noshki, terrorists attempted to enter a Frontier Corps (FC) camp which was “promptly responded,” leaving four terrorists dead. (Ghalib Nihad, “ISPR says attacks repulsed in Balochistan's Noshki and Panjgur; 4 terrorists killed,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

Balochistan: Government decides to bifurcate Lasbela district
On 3 February, Dawn reported that the Balochistan government has decided to bifurcate Lasbela district by establishing a new district comprising Hub, Winder, Gaddani, Sakran and Dureji. The proposal was presented by senior provincial minister for local government and rural development Sardar Muhammad Saleh Bhootani, who told the cabinet that it was the long-standing demand of the people of PB-49 constituency to set up a new district. (“Lasbela bifurcated, Hub made new district,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

Punjab: CM determined to tackle poverty
On 2 February, Chief Minister of Punjab Sardar Usman Buzdar said he was convinced to solve the problems of backward areas and would further engage in targeted development of such areas. He announced his determination while inaugurating several projects in Dera Ghazi Khan division. (“CM says he is on mission to eliminate poverty,” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2022)

Islamabad: NA standing committee on interior defers Islamabad’s LG bill for further amendments
On 2 February, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior deferred the Islamabad Capital Territory Local Government Bill 2021 on the grounds that amendments may be made by the committee. The chairman of the committee said, “We will make some amendments related to education sector of Islamabad. While, the upper age limit of representative of youth in local government will also be increased from 18-25 to 18-30.” (“NA body defers capital’s LG bill for further amendments,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
CJP Bandial to face the test of seniority principle in future appointments to SC
On 2 February, a national daily elaborated the challenges the new CJP is likely to face during his term. Chief Justice of Pakistan, Umar Ata Bandial who himself has taken a stand on ineffectiveness of principle of seniority as sole criterion for promotion is set to deal with dissent in premier capacity. The last six appointments in SC have been made without following the seniority principle. With regard to Sindh High Court Chief Justice Ahmed Ali Sheikh, who is a senior judge and expecting a promotion to SC, justice Bandial told Judicial commission of Pakistan “The commission cannot overlook a deficiency nor relax the criteria for nominating a permanent judge to the Supreme Court,”. (Hasnaat Malik, “Seniority principle to be major test for new CJP,” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2022)

ECONOMY
IMF board clears USD 1 billion tranche
On 2 February, the executive board of IMF concluded Article IV consultation with Pakistan and approved continuation of the extended loan arrangement. This will bring total budget support to about USD 3 billion which amounts to 106 per cent of the Pakistan’s IMF quota. IMF projected real GDP growth of Pakistan at 4 percent in FY 21. A statement from IMF said “recent economic and financial policy efforts, however, were appropriate to safeguard macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability,”. (Anwar Iqbal, “IMF projects Pakistan’s real GDP growth for 2022 at 4pc, approves waiver request,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

ON CPEC
ADB releases its report on CPEC and Pakistan
On 2 February, Asian Development Bank released a report titled “Economic Corridor Development in Pakistan: Concept, Framework, and Case Studies”. The report lays five strategies to make the CPEC a successful venture. First, government needs to consider urbanisation and industrialisation a co-processes and government should work towards affordable and reliable public services arising out from such fusion. Second, the government should consider affordable housing for factory and low-income labour force. Third, roles of federal, provincial and local governments need to streamlined, Fourth, SEZs should be fully utilised as a spatial economic unit to create synergy between urban and industrial development processes. Fifth, selection and prioritising a geographic area based on economic potential along with strong political commitment. The study concluded by stating that economic corridor development would be successful if the framework presented in the report is planned and executed well. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Without structural reforms, CPEC won’t yield results, says ADB,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
PM to leave for China on 3 February
On 2 February, PM Imran Khan held several parliamentary meetings before his trip to China and got detailed briefings on various projects related to CPEC, SEZs, trade, IT and agriculture. The visit is also aimed Pakistan showing solidarity with Beijing when US and its western allies have decided to boycott the opening ceremony of winter Olympics. Pakistan has clarified that it will not be a part of block politics and the current visit is aimed at conveying the same message after revival of EFF program with IMF. (Kamran Yousaf, "PM leaves for China today to attend Winter Olympics.” The Express Tribune, 3 February 2022)
 
Mian Mansha optimistic about backdoor diplomacy between India and Pakistan
On 2 February, business tycoon and chairman of Nishat Group, Mian Mansha said “If things improve between the two neighbours, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi could visit Pakistan in a month,” during a gathering of business in Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Mia Mansha was recently appointed as chairman of British Asian Trust in Pakistan. He revealed that backdoor diplomacy between India and Pakistan had been going on since the since summer of 2021. He futher added “If the economy does not improve, the country may face disastrous consequences. Pakistan should improve trade relations with India and take a regional approach to economic development. Europe fought two great wars, but ultimately settled for peace and regional development. There is no permanent enmity.” (“Backdoor diplomacy with India ongoing, may bear fruit: Mian Mansha,” Dawn, 3 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn titled “CJP’s remarks” highlights his recent address, a day before he was sworn in as the Chief Justice. “Justice Umar Ata Bandial has identified scandalization of judges and a massive backlog of cases as crucial challenges facing the judiciary.”

An editorial in Dawn discusses the new proposal made by International Air Transport Association to save Pakistan International Airlines. However, the author believes the plan either to be anything new or out of the box.

An editorial in Dawn titled “Supreme court on LGs” heralds the apex court’s decision to provide “meaningful authority and responsibility in the administrative, political and financial spheres.

An editorial in The Express Tribune emphasizes the Sindh government’s efforts to provide door-to-door vaccination and to involve social workers to get better outcomes.

An editorial in The Express Tribune voices out for a zero-tolerance policy for violence; an approach taken by the ECP lately in KP.  Primarily, if they intend to conduct a peaceful and transparent electoral process, then such a policy is the need of the hour.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Soaring Inflation” predicts “double-digit enigma will stay on and keep on browbeating public welfare in the country.”

An editorial in The News International on “State of the media” stresses on “Pakistan still have a long way to go before saying that the country’s journalists are truly free to do their jobs, especially without risking their jobs.”

An opinion in Dawn on “LGs and welfare” iterates “with a renewed focus on conducting LG elections, the issue of grassroots governance has bounced back into the news and policy cycles”

An opinion in Dawn by Ahmed Bilal Mehboob writes “the voting on the SBP bill last week reflected our politicians’ causal approach to lawmaking.”

An opinion in Dawn by Yasmin Ashraf speaks heaps about Pakistan’s education system. “The cycle continues but the authorities in Pakis­tan are more concerned with carrying out war-like raids on schools to ensure the learning of religi­ous texts, banning jeans, and making dupattas mandatory, never mind the fundamental moral-code at stake in this corrupt system of education”, the author says.

An opinion in The Express Tribune on “Russian strategy and the Ukraine crisis” believes that “Russia under Putin vies for the revival of its glory, forcing similar retreat on the US from Europe”

An opinion in the Express Tribune by Imtiaz Gul says “PM Imran Khan’s Beijing visit will most likely take the Sino- Pakistan relations to new levels.”

An opinion in The News International on “The realities of growth” iterates that the rebasing of national income accounts has opened new channels of “confidence to the government to boast about its economic successes.”

In Brief
JUDICIARY
Justice Umar Ata Bandial sworn in as the 28th Chief Justice of Pakistan
On 1 February, Justice Umar Ata Bandial took oath as the 28th Chief Justice of Pakistan. He was administered the oath of office by President Arif Alvi. Justice Bandial will serve as the CJP until 16 September 2023. Before taking the oath, Justice Bandial spoke about his plan on how the apex court will function during his term. He said, “The differences in judges’ opinions in matters of law arise from our individual perceptions and this diversity brings richness to our understanding.” (“Justice Umar Ata Bandial sworn in as 28th Chief Justice of Pakistan,” Dawn, 2 February 2022) ("Profile: Who is the new chief justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial?," Dawn, 2 February 2022)

Supreme Court restricts Sindh from undertaking projects within LG domain
On 1 February, the Supreme Court restricted the Sindh government from undertaking new projects in the province that would fall within the domain of the elected local government, without prior consultation and consent of the local government. Former CJP Gulzar Ahmed, while heading a three-judge bench, announced the judgement in the open court emphasising that Article 140A of the Constitution casts a mandatory obligation on the provinces to establish a local government (LG) possessing meaningful authority and responsibility in the political arena, and administrative and financial matters. (“Supreme Court stops Sindh from undertaking projects within LG domain,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: PHC orders local body polls in Hazara after Eidul Fitr
On 1 February, the Peshawar High Court’s Abbottabad Circuit Bench ordered the rescheduling of the second phase of local body elections in five snow-bound districts of Hazara division. The court directed the Election Commission of Pakistan to hold polls in Torghar, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Kohistan after Eidul Fitr instead of March 27. (Muhammad Sadaqat, “Peshawar High Court orders local body polls in Hazara after Eidul Fitr,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

INTERNAL
Militant attacks declined slightly in January, says PICSS report
On 2 February, Dawn reported that according to statistics released by Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), the number of violent attacks decreased from 28 to 24 during the month of January 2022. The report stated that there was no improvement in the security situation of the country as the number of causalities increased despite a slight decrease in the attacks. The report cited that in January, militants carried out 24 attacks in which 42 people were killed which included 22 security forces personnel, 16 civilians and four militants and 79 others were injured, including 62 civilians. (Ikram Junaidi, “Militant attacks declined slightly in January: report,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

IATA reveals five-year business plan for PIA
On 1 February, IATA Consultancy proposed a five-year business plan for Pakistan International Airline (PIA) to the Minister of Finance Shaukat Tarin and Federal Minister of Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan. The proposed plan suggests financial restructuring, independent decision making, re-organisation of company structure, restrictions to core business, financial discipline and human resource (HR) rationalisation cost controls. Additionally, it proposed reviewing destinations, fleet planning exercises and network expansion to increase PIA’s network spread and passenger uplift. Further, the implementation of the plan would push the PIA assets from the current USD 1.196 billion to USD 2.183 billion by 2026. (“Business plan for PIA unveiled,” Dawn, 2 February 2022) (Bilal Hussain, “IATA’s business plan sees PIA making profit by 2026,” The News International, 2 February 2022)

Foreign funding cased adjourned after PTI’s request
On 1 February the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) adjourned the hearing of PTI foreign funding case to Feb 9 after PTI lawyer Anwar Mansoor Khan sought an adjournment on his health grounds. The development comes after the ECP had allowed sharing of the scrutiny committee’s report which had been kept confidential so far. (“Foreign funding case adjourned on PTI’s request,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: MQM, PTI to continue to fight against local government law
On 2 February, following the Supreme Court verdict on local government, the MQM-P said, “Now the burden falls on the provincial government to follow the SC orders and implement it and make a fresh law in consultation with political forces of the provinces,” adding, “The MQM has definitely led this fight but it’s the success of every single person living in Sindh. From Karachi to Kashmore and from Hyderabad to Ghotki, this SC verdict empowers the oppressed people of Sindh and explains true definition of democracy. But let me make it very clear. It’s just a milestone and not a destination. You will find MQM on the ground to continue this struggle till the achievement of the desired results.”

Similarly, the PTI minister Asad Umar said, “Supreme Court rules elements of Sindh Local Government 2013 Act in conflict with the constitution,” adding, “PTI and MQM view that Sindh local govt act is not in line with constitution vindicated. Our struggle for the rights of Sindh citizens to have empowered local governments will continue.”

Meanwhile, the JI Karachi chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman said, “I welcome the SC orders on a case pertaining to empowerment of local government,” adding, “But I can only hope that Justice Gulzar Ahmed should have come up with more clarity about the decision. He should have directed the federal and provincial governments to incorporate the chapter regarding power and authority of local government in the Constitution.”

The PPP has not yet made a statement on the verdict as it would discuss the issue in the cabinet meeting on 2 February. (Imran Ayub, “Call for consensus Sindh local govt law gets louder after landmark SC order,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

Balochistan: Government approves launch of health card scheme among others
On 1 February, the cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo approved registration of peasants for Kissan card, starting recruitment on vacant posts on merit. The cabinet approved amendments to the Land Review Act, 1967; e-Stamp Roll, 2021; and Balochistan Fisheries Rules, 1971. Draft on Balochistan Forest Act, 2021, aimed at ensuring protection of forests and wildlife, was also approved along with the draft on  industrial development and Balochistan Archaeology Rules, 2021. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan approves health card scheme,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

ECONOMY
Government receives its targeted USD 1 billion sukuk proceeds
On 1 February, the Ministry of Finance announced that it had received the raised USD 1 billion proceeds against participants offering up to USD 2.7 billion. In the first seven months of current FY, the forex holding had shrank by USD 3.88 billion while during the first 21 days of January the forex holding shrank by USD 1.4 billion. (Shahid Iqbal, “Pakistan receives $1bn sukuk proceeds,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

PBS monthly price indices show inflation at 2 years high
On 1 February, PBS released its Monthly Price Indices for January 2022 with the new base year 2015-16. As per the report the consumer price index rose to 13 per cent in January, the highest level in two years.  The inflation in January was the fifth straight month when inflation constantly increased. After the recently passed SBP amendment act the price stability responsibility has passed on to SBP from the government. The Wholesale Price Index jumped to 24 per cent in January, indicating that prices would remain very high in the coming months. The Sensitive Price Index, comprising goods largely used by the poor and lower-middle-income groups, also remained at 20.9 per cent, according to the PBS. (Shahbaz Rana, “Inflation skyrockets to two-year high,” The Express Tribune, 2 February 2022)

POLITICS
Long march aimed at demanding the establishment should be neutral, says Bilawal
On 1 February, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari demanded the establishment should remain impartial in the active politics, adding that if the establishment was neutralised, they could achieve their objective successfully. He also denied claims that the PPP has any link with the establishment. Further, he said, “We don’t want to lay a siege to the parliament, nor the Prime Minister House. We want to go for the option of a no-confidence [motion against the government]…[for] any extreme step by the [opposition] political parties may lead to a crisis in the country.” (Amjad Mahmood, “Long march objective is neutrality of establishment: Bilawal,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

FM Qureshi warns the opposition not to rely on the ‘compromised leader’ like Gilani
On 1 February, FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi while speaking in the Senate criticised Yousuf Raza Gilani stating that the opposition should not to rely on the ‘compromised leader.’ Additionally, he rejected Gilani’s announcement that he would resign, stating that it was just a drama and that Gilani would continue to hold on to the position. Further, he questioned how Gilani could have become leader of the opposition when the PML-N had more seats in the Senate. (Muhammad Sadaqat, “Peshawar High Court orders local body polls in Hazara after Eidul Fitr,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

EXTERNAL
Interior minister of Saudi Arabia to visit Pakistan
On 1 February, the interior ministry of Pakistan informed that Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdul Aziz bin Saud bin Naif is set to arrive in Pakistan on February 7 at the special invitation of his Pakistani counterpart Sheikh Rashid Ahmed. Saudi official will meet key government and security officials. (“Saudi interior minister to arrive on February 7,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

Pakistan optimistic over US approval for new envoy Masood Khan
On 1 February, the Pakistan Embassy in Washington told a national daily that “Mr Khan’s “agrément is under process and the State Department will approve and send it back soon, perhaps in the next two to three weeks,”. Recently there was misinformation campaign against Mr Masood Khan which caused anxiety among one of the republican lawmaker in USA, who wrote to state department to reject the nomination. (Anwar Iqbal, “Pakistan hopes US will soon approve new envoy Masood Khan’s nomination,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

ON INDUS WATERS
Indian Commissioner for Indus Waters to visit Pakistan to attend the annual meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission
On 2 February, Dawn reported that the Indian Commissioner for Indus Waters is scheduled to visit Pakistan in March to attend the annual meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission. Pakistan Commissioner for Indus Waters Syed Muhammad Mehr Ali Shah announced, “The annual meetings, under the Indus Water Treaty, are always liable to be held before March 31 each year, alternatively in Pakistan and India. Last year, we had attended the annual meeting in India and this time it is their (Indian delegation) turn to attend the same in Pakistan,” adding, “They had earlier informed us about the visit on Jan 17 after we wrote to them about the meeting schedule. But later they requested us to postpone it owing to the Covid-related restrictions. Now, they have informed us that they will visit in March. The date has not been decided yet but the meeting will be held before March 31.” (Khalid Hasnain, “Indian Commissioner for Indus Waters to visit Pakistan in March,” Dawn, 2 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn titled “How is FBR helping?” probes into “what has the FBR done to make evaders pay their taxes? And what has it done to help those who want to pay taxes?”

An editorial in Dawn on “Persecuted media” highlights the plight of journalists in 2021. According to the report compiled by the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors concludes that “the situation today, is worse than during the previous two years.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Senate in a shambles?” expresses Yousaf Raza Gillani’s resignation is a déjà vu for the opposition. Nevertheless, the author calls for “issue-based politics to reign.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Coal discovery” says it is good news for Pakistan and Sindh especially as it can breakaway Pakistan from the shackles of power shortage and lift up the economy.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “UN report on Taliban” claims there have been incidences of “credible allegations of killings, enforced disappearances, and other violations.” But it's worth noting that the report has not been available to the general public yet.

An editorial in The News International argues in support of local governments to have higher decentralization of power and increased decision-making authority as it is crucial for effective governance.

An editorial in The News International on “Targeting minorities” says “for decades, religious minorities have been led to believe that their lives are expendable, that their safety is not a priority.” But it’s time that the government reversed this notion and protect all citizens as mandated in the Constitution.

An opinion in Dawn by Zahid Hussain expresses “the implications of the population explosion seem to be lost on our political leadership.”

An opinion in Dawn discusses a “noisy debate” around the 21st Amendment concerning parliament approval of military courts. Rather calls for strengthening of “civilian justice system and protecting its judges.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune speaks “Pakistan’s progress has been slow and unable to keep pace even with South Asian Standards.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune regrets to inform that “there are thousands of innocent people charged despite having alibis.”

An opinion in The News International by Ayaz Ahmed brings out the correlation between NSP and deep-seated corruption in the country. The author suggests implementing a stringent anti-graft policy to execute NSP smoothly.

In Brief
POLITICS
Gilani resigns from the post of the opposition leader in Senate
On 31 January, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani announced that he has resigned as the leader of the Opposition in Senate. His resignation comes amid criticism over his absence from the last session when the government passed a bill giving complete autonomy to the State Bank of Pakistan. He said that “some turncoats” accused him of helping the government, adding “I am not astonished by the harsh words from my opponents, but I am astonished by the silence of my well-wishers.” (Rizwan Shehzad, “Gilani resigns as opposition leader in Senate,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2022)

Senate passed a resolution against a presidential system of government
On 31 January, the Senate passed a resolution against a “systematic campaign” to introduce the presidential system of government in the country, warning that such a move would have “disastrous consequences” for the federation, adding that they “resolve that it will preserve and protect the parliamentary form of government as envisaged in the 1973 Constitution.” The resolution was table by the PPP on behalf of the lawmakers of the opposition. (Amir Wasim, “Senate adopts resolution in support of parliamentary form of govt,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

PML-Q and PTI members meet Bilawal and join PPP
On 31 January, a former minister and others from the PML-Q and the PTI met with Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in Lahore announced joining the PPP. They include, ex-forest minister Rai Ijaz Ahmad Khan, Advocate Rai Azeem Saeed, independent candidate for National Assembly seat Noorul Ain, Shoaib Rahim Vithra (a PTI ticket holder from Chichawatni) and PTI’s Sahiwal district leader Suhail Rahim Vithra. (“PML-Q, PTI leaders meet Bilawal in Lahore, join PPP,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

INTERNAL
ECP shares part of PTI foreign funding report to petitioner
On 31 January, ECP handed over volume eight of the confidential record of PTI foreign funding to petitioner Akbar S. Babar. On January 18 the ECP had overturned the decision of scrutiny committee  to keep the foreign funding investigation report confidential. The ECP said “All documents of the foreign funding case are part of the public record and plea to keep them secret is not acceptable,”. (“ECP hands over PTI foreign funding record to petitioner,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Gwadar rights leader warns of long march if agreement not implemented
On 31 January, Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, who led the ‘Gwadar Ko Haqooq Do’ movement warned of a long march in Quetta if the Balochistan government does not implement the accord the signed between him and other leaders of the movement for ending the sit-in. (“Gwadar rights leader warns of long march,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Balochistan: Coastal line divided into seven zones to curb illegal fishing
On 31 January, Chief Secretary Mathar Niaz Rana announced that the Balochistan government has decided to divide its 750km coastal line into seven zones to curb large trawlers from illegally fishing along the Makran coast. Additionally, the division would also help security agencies take action against the offenders. (“Balochistan coast divided into seven zones to curb illegal fishing,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Sindh: Pak Sarzameen Party continues its sit-in for the second consecutive day
On 31 January, the Pak Sarzameen Party continued its sit-in on the second consecutive day amid ongoing talks with the PPP government. They maintained their demands for an empowered local government system, effective municipal authorities and control of city administration over institutions ranging from health to education and building control to development authority. Founder and chief of the party Syed Mustafa Kamal said, “We are not here for any vested or political interests, but for the rights of Karachiites, for our future generations and ensure that they get much better city and environment,” adding, “We welcome the gesture of the Sindh government if it wakes up to our call and decides to hold talks but we are interested only in one-point agenda — empowered local bodies. So any talks or engagement for less than this will be wastage of time for both of us.” (“PSP sit-in enters second day amid talks,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: PM asks representatives to learn from ‘mistakes’ committed in the first phase of local government elections
On 1 February, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan urged the elected PTI representatives from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to learn from ‘mistakes’ committed in the first phase of local government elections in the province. Additionally, he asked them to increase public interaction before the second phase of the polls scheduled for 27 March. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Imran wants PTI leaders to gear up for KP polls,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Terrorist killed in North Waziristan tribal district
On 31 January, ISPR released a statement regarding killing of a wanted terrorist, Mobeen alias Majrooh, in Dossali area of North Waziristan. The statement added that ome weapons were recovered from the terrorists’ hideout. (“Terrorist killed during operation: ISPR,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Islamabad: Two traffic wardens shot dead
On 31 January, two traffic police were shot dead in the daylight while executing their duties in Kohat. A case under sections 7 ATA, 320, and 120 B had been registered against the terrorists by the regional counter terrorism department. (Abdul Sami Paracha, “Two traffic wardens shot dead,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

JUDICIARY
SHC ordered the police and Rangers to produce two missing persons
On 31 January, the Sindh High Court, Sukkur bench ordered the police and Rangers to produce two missing persons, on the next hearing scheduled for 9 February. The bench ordered that if both the missing persons are not produced on the date, the bench will allow the petitioners to register cases against the law enforcement agencies’ officers concerned. (“Production of two ‘missing’ persons on Feb 9 ordered,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Accountability court acquits PML(N) members among 16 others in Saaf Paani reference
On 31 January the accountability court acquitted 16 out of 20 accused filed by NAB Lahore in Saafi Paani reference investigation. Taking to the twitter, PML(N) President Shehbaz Sharif tweeted “I thank Allah Almighty for the acquittal of former MPA Raja Qamarul Islam, Waseem Ajmal along with 16 accused in the ‘Saaf Pani’ case, The fog of political vengeance is gradually dissipating and the light of truth is spreading,”. (“Court acquits 16 in Saaf Paani NAB reference,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
Trade with Afghanistan through the Torkham border remained suspended for the second day
On 31 January, trade with Afghanistan through the Torkham border remained suspended for the second day after protesting Khugakhel tribesmen and local administration failed to reach an agreement over the release of an elder and reopening of the main road leading to the border crossing. (“Torkham trade remains suspended,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Turkmenistan and Pakistan to initiate the dialogue on TAPI project
On 31 January, the energy ministers of both countries met and discussed energy import projects, gas pricing and change of gas delivery point at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. The ministers agreed to start formal discussions on multi-billion dollar Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project and the possibility of a power transmission line between the two countries. The share of LNG in gas grid of Pakistan is 24 per cent and Pakistan energy dependence will be diversified after TAPI. The 1820-km pipeline has a two-phased construction plan by Turkmenistan which held about 85pc stakes in the joint TAPI Pipeline Company with 5pc shareholding each from Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Technical working group on TAPI gas pipeline to meet today,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

Foreign minister dials Uzbekistan Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Khafizovich Kamilov over bilateral relations
On 31 January, Shah Mehmood Qureshi held a telephonic conversation with Uzbek Foreign Minister and discussed entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation with a special focus on trade and economic relations and connectivity. Mr Qureshi underscored the importance of peace and stability in the region and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Trans-Afghan Railway project. (“Qureshi, Uzbek FM discuss bilateral ties,” The Express Tribune¸ 1 February 2022)

ECONOMY
PM summarily rejects proposed hike in petrol prices
On 31 January Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Political Communication Dr Shahbaz Gill revealed that PM rejected the proposed petrol hike by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to be implemented in February as the hike was due to inflation all over the world. He added that PM wanted to protect people from inflation and took decision it their interest. (PM Imran rejects proposed hike in petroleum prices. (“PM Imran rejects proposed hike in petroleum prices,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2022)

Four development projects approved by Executive Committee of the National Economic Council
On 31 January, Ecnec approved four development projects, mostly in Punjab province, involving an estimated cost of USD 2 billion. First project approved was Punjab Arterial Roads Improvement Programme (PARIP), second, Punjab Rural Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Project (PRSWSSP), third, Kharian-Rawalpindi Motorway project on BOT model and last project which got approval of Ecnec was Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme K-IV, 260 MGD Phase –I. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Ecnec approves Rs448bn development projects,” Dawn, 1 February 2022)

FBR exceeds its seven-month target of tax collection
On 31 January, it was revealed that FBR had exceeded its tax collection target for previous seven months of FY22. The highest tax was collected from imports, amounting to 53 per cent of the total collection. However, the monthly target was missed even after imposing 17 per cent sales tax on almost every consumable item. The net collection for July-January months stood at USD 19.09 billion. (Shahbaz Rana, “Beating target, FBR collects Rs3.35tr,” The Express Tribune, 1 February 2022)

An editorial in Dawn on “Judicial Independence” exclaims the Supreme Court’s decision to reverse its order against allegations previously made to the wife of Justice Qazi Faez Isa. The author says this decision “will go a long way in protecting the independence of the judiciary and safeguarding judges from pressure tactics by the executive.”

An editorial in Dawn on “NSA’s visit” to Afghanistan to discuss humanitarian requirements and economic engagement between the two nations. Reportedly, security challenges arising from Afghanistan were not discussed, nevertheless, there are “substantive outcomes.”  

An editorial in Dawn on “Clergyman’s killing” gives a grim reminder of increasing acts of terrorism against minority religious groups. The author gives a wake-up call to the authorities to be more vigilant.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Power tariff hike” warns citizens to brace themselves for “another jump in prices.” This decision is purely motivated by the IMF, nevertheless, “it will affect most of the industrial, agriculture and commercial sectors.”

An editorial in The Express Tribune highlights that the cotton stocks will run out in a few weeks. The author claims that if the government rather than “harping on record exports, must address the problem” with trade deficient widening every day.

An editorial in The Express Tribune on “Reviving KCR” says that “Karachi has one of the worst transport systems in the world due to lack of planning, negligence, and corruption.”

An opinion in Dawn titled “Teaching Labour” believes that “there’s a little understanding of labor as a holistic subject”, says Zeenat Hisam.

An opinion in Dawn by Owen Bennet-Jones deduces that “Pakistan is a country of resistance, even dictators have found it difficult to suppress dissent.”

An opinion in The Express Tribune by Hamid Zaman emphasizes that “perhaps there is a disappointment is not because Higher Education Commission is not doing enough, maybe it is trying to do too much.”

An opinion in The News International on “Climate change and the NSP” regrets that the NSP does not call for “strengthening country’s institutional capacities to address climate crisis; which is both complex and multifaceted.”