POLITICS
NAB directed to continue the investigation in Toshakhana case
On 27 April, Islamabad High Court (IHC) dismissed the petition, which urged the court to inquire about the capacity in which NAB was investigating the alleged corrupt practice case of Imran Khan and his spouse in retaining Toshakhana gifts. The petition demanded that a reason be established and communicated to the Khan by NAB. The bench at IHC observed that the court could not interfere in the course of the investigation. NAB, in its reply also clarified that call up notice were sent to Imran Khan twice while he evaded the procedure nudging the accountability body to start the probe against Imran Khan. (Malik Asad, “Probe Toshakhana case under amended NAB law: IHC,” Dawn, 28 April 2023, “NAB can’t be stopped from probing Toshakhana case: IHC,” The News International, 28 April 2023)
PM wins vote of confidence in a show of unity in lower house
On 27 April, PM secured 180 votes against the required majority of 172 in the National Assembly after a resolution for the vote of confidence was moved by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. PM Shehbaz Sharif thanked the coalition partners and reasserted his stance on respecting powers vested with parliament. He said: “Parliament’s dignity and constitutional status are being challenged. No one can grab parliament’s dignity and its constitutional powers.” He reiterated that the government would only accept the 4-3 verdict of the Supreme Court on the issue of election matters. He questioned why the apex court was only concerned only about the elections in Punjab and not Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. (Waqas Ahmed, “PM Shehbaz wins surprise vote of confidence,” The Express Tribune, 28 April 2023)
PM assures MQM-P on resolving census issues in Karachi
On 27 April, PM met with MQM-P delegation and assured them of an early redressal of the party’s grievances on ensuring accurate population count in Karachi. The MQM-P had resolved not to attend assembly sessions and there were reports on MQM-P considering parting ways with PDM over the census irregularities. MQM-P alleged that PPP, a major coalition partner in PDM, had attempted “systematic alteration” in the ongoing population census. (Syed Irfan Raza, “MQM-P to stay on govt side as PM promises to solve census issue,” Dawn, 28 April 2023)
ECONOMY
US urges Pakistan to fast-track stalled reform to enable successful review talks with IMF
On 27 April, a state department official in charge of Pakistan called on Pakistan to move ahead on stalled reforms sought by the IMF. She said: “The reform(s) that Pakistan and the IMF agreed to are not easy, but it’s crucial that Pakistan take these actions to bring the country back to sound financial footing, avoid falling into further debt and grow Pakistan’s economy.” (“IMF conditionalities: US asks Pakistan to move ahead on stalled reforms,” Business Recorder, 28 April 2023)
Hiked energy and food prices along with the Russia-Ukraine conflict exaggerated BoP crisis in vulnerable countries: ADB President
On 27 April, while interacting with an international broadcast journalist in Incheon Korea, ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa explained that the steep increase in energy price and food prices exacerbated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine has really aggravated the balance of payment of a couple of vulnerable countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka. He shared his amusement on expected crisis in central Asian countries, Caucasus while they proved to be resilient. He asserted that response by ADB on short-term crisis in not mutually exclusive with long term investment agendas. He reminded the host that countries in Asia and Pacific are most vulnerable to climate change. (“ADB lists factors that have aggravated BoP position,” Business Recorder, 28 April 2023)
SECURITY
Explosion and several blasts flowed by gun fire reported late night in Lakki Marwat
On 27 April, multiple attacks, suspected to be terror incidents, were reported from across different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Dawn quoted sources saying that a blast took place near a government PG college where military and security forces were camping. A number of other incidents were also reported in the early hours of 28 April; two in the Janikhel area of Bannu district and one in the Mir Kalam area of Tank district. Dawn reported that there was no official word from the authorities on the situation. (Ghulam Mursalin Marwat “Explosions, gunfire rock Lakki amid reports of more attacks,” Dawn, 28 April 2023)
“Our position is very simple. Tehreek-e-Insaf had resigned collectively to hold general elections in the country. The court would not have changed the definition of collective resignation and the current crisis leading to national elections would not have arisen”
-Ch Fawad Hussain
“Grateful to PML-N Parliamentary Party, and the leadership & legislators of coalition parties for their continued trust in me. Coalition politics is a unique experience in Pakistan's democratic evolution. We are united in strengthening Parliament & saying no to politics of diktat.”
-Shehbaz Sharif
“Economist Intelligence Unit of Economist has issued a detailed report about Pakistan’s economy. It is a tragedy that neither the print nor the electric media has picked up comments & observations made. Same is the case with Govt and opposition.This insensitiveness is suicidal.”
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi
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Faisal Bari, Tuition fee increases
Dawn, 28 April 2023
“The real fear is that the progress we had been making, even if slow and painstaking, in terms of overall enrolment, completion rates and quality enhancement, is very likely to get reversed as long as the financial crisis lasts. And the government, despite all its rhetoric about the importance of education, is not going to do anything about it. We will, if nothing is done, be set back by decades, and those who fall in the school-/university-going age category at the moment, will, together with their families and society at large, have to bear the consequences for decades to come.”
Muhammad Ali Siddiqi, First resolution
Dawn, 27 April 2023
“I have risen from that position — a position I have never forgotten in the best days of opulence and abundance. He has given me wealth, a dutiful and wise wife, many children, a palace to live in, a robust health, and honour, and respect. And, what is more valuable than everything else — a sincere feeling for my community. I have held all these pleasures for over 50 years. What more do I need? What for should I be anxious to live longer? Believe me, mankind would have been forced to take to suicide on an organised basis if the possibility of natural death had not existed. Endless life would have become a tedious experience, a full-fledged calamity.”
Aasim Sajjad Akhtar, China’s world?
Dawn, 28 April 2023
“The US establishment is certainly fearful of Beijing’s rise, which is why it is patronising a China-bashing campaign; many Western progressives are rightly resisting Washington’s prosecution of what they see as a ‘new Cold War’. But as we approach the 137th commemoration of the workers revolt of 1886 — May Day — it is necessary to demand that the prospective Chinese rulers of our putatively shared world demonstrate their commitment to working class internationalism and live up to the principles of the Chinese revolution.”
Dr Pervez Tahir, Reducing the burden of defence budget
The Express Tribune, 28 April 2023
“These include construction and rehabilitation of markets, educational institutions, hospitals and communication infrastructure. Around 85% of these have been completed. A total cost of Rs162 billion was mentioned. Where did this money come from? In Gwadar, where the army is providing security to the CPEC projects, the army chief announced a number of projects for the welfare of the local people from his own budget. An amount as big as Rs162 billion could not possibly have come from the army’s budget.”
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“There are those who were present but have denied such crass deviance ascribed to Bajwa by the two”
-An opinion in Dawn, ‘ Pakistan’s India policy ’
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In Brief
ECONOMY
Political and Judicial crisis, Ishaq Dar will not be attending the IMF spring meetings
On 7 April, reports The Express Tribune on Finance Minister Ishaq Dar cancelling his visit to the United States, scheduled to meet with the IMF. The high power delegation was set to meet on 10 April to discuss the smooth transitioning and removal of hurdles for the staff-level agreement. Dar said, "I am not going due to the domestic state of affairs, "stating that due to ongoing political uncertainty and the Judicial crisis, he has decided to halt his meeting duties. In the absence of the finance minister, there would be a cancellation of meetings with their Saudi Arabia counterpart. The altered plan Finance Secretary Hamed Yaqoob Sheikh and Economic Affairs Secretary Kazim Niaz would take part and represent Pakistan in the IMF spring meetings. (Shahbaz Rana, "Dar pulls out of WB-IMF spring meetings,” The Express Tribune, 7 April 2023)
IRSA announced Sindh and Punjab regions to face water shortages during the Kharif season
On 6 April, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) announced the approval of 27 per cent and 10 per cent water shortages in the regions of Punjab and Sindh during the Kharif seasons. It is estimated that Punjab would receive 30.864 million acre-feet (MAF), Sindh 28.202 MAF, KPK 0.823 MAF, and Balochistan 2.848 MAF. They also announced the setting up of a committee to determine to regulate and account for losses. ("Irsa okays 27pc water shortage for Punjab during Kharif season,” The News International, 7 April 2023)
SECURITY
National Security Committee to meet with the coalition government
On 7 April, PM Shehbaz Sharif called for a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC). COAS General Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, heads of the air force and the navy, and federal ministers would attend the meeting. It is assumed that the government would consult on the issue of militancy and seek support for the delay of polls. Besides, the military previously briefed the government on the terrorist outfits making the environment not conducive for elections. It is also speculated that they would also discuss the conditions of imposing an emergency owing to the current political climate. Imran Khan criticized the meeting calling it a bid to pit the military against the judiciary and said, "Try and use security as a pretext for postponement of electionsThis will pit armed forces directly against not just judiciary but also the nation." (Syed Irfan Raza," NSC meeting called today to ‘revisit’ militancy threat,” Dawn, 7 April 2023)
"I said on 16 December, 2021 that on account of current & fiscal account status this state is not a 'going concern'. The objective was to get this country ready for correction.What we have done ourselves for this except begging. Countries only survive if people are happy & prosper."
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi
“The term of the caretaker government cannot be extended by moving the date of the election forward. The caretaker government cannot go beyond the third week of April. All decisions of ministers will be unconstitutional.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain
“What can be the worst revenge of nature than that 13 parties who called themselves democratic and protector of the constitution for many decades are now refusing to fight the election against the one person whom they all called "Selected" together.”
-Senator Aon Abbas Buppi
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Editorial, Political catwalk
The News International, 7 April 2023
“If the government needs to make concrete plans regarding how it sees future politics, the PTI needs to figure out once and for all who it's up against: the constant U-tuns need to be retired now. And most importantly, if both sides of the political wrangling need to resolve their differences, so do the institutions. It's time for everyone to behave like adults now.”
Ishrat Husain, Reviving agricultural growth: Part - II
The News International, 7 April 2023
“Improving the efficiency of water use including equitable distribution could save an additional 12 maf, not only mitigating the adverse impact of climate change but further boosting overall GDP by 0.9 per cent and agriculture GDP 4.2 per cent on average.”
Raoof Hasan, Election bells tolling
The News International, 7 April 2023
“Faced with the prospect of their political demise, the criminal conglomerate is breeding conflict and chaos. For the state to survive, it is imperative that institutions continue operating in accordance with the constitution. It is that time in Pakistan’s history when without let or hindrance all instruments of power, when called upon, should assist the SC in undertaking a constitutional duty.”
Dr Pervez Tahir,Democracy’s toughest test
The Express Tribune, 7 April 2023
“The difference is on the date. Insistence by the coalition government to wait until October is in the hope to regain some lost political capital, mainly by improving the economy… Let the general elections be held sooner than later. Political problems should be resolved politically. Who knows it better than the seasoned politicians in the coalition.”
Shahzad Chaudhry,The final sin
The Express Tribune, 7 April 2023
“The SC has ordered elections. This is the first step to resolving this multifaceted breakdown of order. This is what the Constitution also ordains. To be on the wrong side of both for short-term gains and convenience is failing the state and its people. Let it not be said we were found siding the wrong. Let it not be ‘the sin’ which finally sank the ship down fully. God forbid.”
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“ If not specifically mentioned in the constitution,
even the obvious leads to acrimony and long drawn out legal battles”
-An opinion in The Express Tribune,‘Democracy’s toughest test’
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In Brief
JUDICIARY
SC: Disregarding Supreme Court direction to remove the registrar
On 4 April, the Supreme Court's six-member bench overruled Justice Qazi Faez Isa’s direction to remove registrar Ali. The court supported Registrar Ishrat Ali’s circular stating that CJP only has the power to issue Suo Motu. The observers retracted the letter by Justice Isa asking to remove the registrar from his services. The bench stated that Justice Isa had no connection and that the assumption was unwarranted. Justice Isa is also found in violation of well-settled law and the order was beyond his jurisdiction. (“Fresh bench overrides Justice Isa’s order on suo motu cases,” Dawn, 5 April 2023)
Legal experts praise SC verdict but foresee’s confrontation
On 5 April, reports Dawn over the Supreme Court verdict of holding the Punjab election on 14 May. The legal experts have expressed the verdict was in tune with constitutional priority but also expect the possibility of confrontation over the verdict. Barrister Rida Hosain stated that the court against all odds was able to put the Constitution in front. Lawyer Mirza Moiz Baig said, “uncontroversial and there was, perhaps, never any doubt in this respect.” The common fear expressed by the legal experts was over the possible “backlash” the verdict might incur. Additionally, they questioned the procedure and expressed apprehension over the confrontation between the executive and judiciary. (“SC verdict ‘hailed’, but experts fear fresh confrontation,” Dawn, 5 April 2023)
ECONOMY
Cotton production sees a 34 per cent decline in 2023
On 5 April, reports Dawn there has been record four-decade decline in domestic cotton production to 4.9m bales in 2023. The Ginning data reports there has been a decline of 34 per cent in production. The dip is due to catastrophic floods in the Sindh and Southern Punjab region. Where individually Sindh saw a 46 per cent decline and Punjab saw a loss of 32 per cent forcing textile industries to rely on imports. Additionally, factors like pests, disease and changing weather patterns with water shortage have furthered plunged the production. (“Cotton output decline,” Dawn, 5 April 2023)
Pakistan rupee hit a record low of PKR 287.29 per dollar
On 4 April, the PKR rate hit a record low falling to 0.78 per cent. The Pakistani currency is now close to PKR 287.29 per dollar. The country faces extreme financial and economic constraints where the IMF bailout programme has put intense pressure on Pakistan's economy. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and a delegation is set to meet with IMF to restart the loan programme. The delay in IMF funding will make the Pakistan rupee fall further. The primary reason for the fall in PKR is the scarce supply in the State Bank of Pakistan, and the delay fo staff-level agreements with the IMF. (Erum Zaidi, “Rupee touches record low as IMF talks drag,” The News International, 5 April 2023)
“Today’s decision is the last blow of this conspiracy which started by re-writing the constitution and presented it to Imran, the Ladla of the bench, by re-writing the constitution of the Punjab government. To be selected.”
-Maryam Nawaz Sharif
“It is the right of political parties to protest against the controversial decision of the three-member bench. When justice, legal and moral requirements are not fulfilled, questions will definitely arise on the decisions. We have not one but several reservations about the decision of the three-judge bench. The composition and division of the bench made the process itself controversial.”
-Senator Sherry Rehman
“The same should be the case with the rest of the channels, but the lure of advertisements and the fear of PEMRA make the channels to partner in the campaign against Maryam Nawaz and the non-league abuse of judiciary.”
-Ch Fawad Hussain
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Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Where do we go from here?
Dawn, 5 April 2023
“Since, according to the law, the bench is to be formed by the chief justice and the two senior-most judges, chances are that an enlarged bench or a full court may hear the appeal. In the meantime, the chief justice may also initiate proceedings against the newly passed bill and even declare it unlawful.”
Editorial, Elections, or else
Dawn, 5 April 2023
“The chief justice, meanwhile, still has a chance to salvage the situation. He should not continue to ignore the concerns being raised from within his court and without. It is important that the full court be convened post haste to settle all remaining questions.”
Zafarullah Khan, Judicial reforms: Now or never (Part-I)
The News International, 5 April 2023
“Currently, the nomination (one for one post of judges) made by the commission is considered by a committee. However, the 19th Amendment has diluted the powers of parliament.”
Editorial, More crises?
The News International, 5 April 2023
“As for elections in Punjab, the caretaker government has said that it will implement the court’s orders but political observers say that if the government delays in releasing funds, it would not be in the ECP or the caretakers’ hands. What the SC does in this case will lead to another executive versus judiciary faceoff.”
Editorial, Legally correct
The Express Tribune, 5 April 2023
“The helmsmen are well advised that challenging the dictates of the Constitution and the writ of judiciary will only risk contempt of court charges, apart from deepening the prevailing politico-legal crisis that is already having a damaging effect on the economic situation of the country. The only go-to approach is to prepare for election and be ready to accept the people’s verdict in the spirit of democracy and constitutionalism.”
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“Non-compliance with the court’s orders will cause
matters to spin out of everyone’s control.”
-An opinion in Dawn, ‘On a collision course’
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In Brief
POLITICS
Elections: Three-member bench to deliver the verdict today
On 4 April, the three-member bench heard the election delay petition and the questioning of Suo Motu powers amid raging opposition. The judges asked the ruling coalition to submit in writing that they want to “boycott” the court proceedings. While the government stated that they never issued a boycott but rather expressed their lack of confidence in the three-member bench. Additionally, the bench questioned the AG over the delay of elections. CJP offered to slash the salaries of judges and ECP to provide for elections funding. He urged the need for political parties to come together saying, “There is still time that the political parties should come to a settlement in the wake of acrimony and violence,” Furthermore, CJP hinted that while the full court bench was not possible but a full court meeting of all judges was. The court is yet to announce a verdict amid ensuing drama and controversy. (Nasir Iqbal, “Ruling on PTI’s election petition likely today,” Dawn, 4 April 2023; “Verdict due,” Dawn, 4 April 2023)
Call for APC to resolve the issue of the election
On 4 April, The Mediators coordinator Imtiaz Alam called for five nationalist parties PDM, PPP and PTI to conduct an All Party Conference. These efforts were appreciated by Representatives of five nationalist parties from Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the MQMP. He satiated that he plans to reach Bilawal Bhutto and Shehbaz Sharif soon to discuss the matters. Additionally, he condemned the worsened political environment and expressed his concerns over the ongoing judicial crisis. (Asim Yasin, “Nationalist parties, MQMP for dialogue on polls,” The News International, 4 April 2023)
EXTERNAL
PTI clarifies the issuance of visas to Israel, calls on the government over its position on trade with Israel
On 3 April, PTI Senior Vice President Dr Shireen Mazari said: “Visas were issued to [Pakistani] citizens to practice their religion. There is a huge difference in travelling and doing trade between two countries without having diplomatic relations.” In the state of Pakistan, at the issuance of a passport, it mentions that “the passport is valid to travel any country, but Israel”.
On 4 April, Senators from PTI sought an explanation in the upper house of parliament from the government over trade ties with Israel. Referring to reports about exporting food samples to Israel, Senator Mohsin Aziz reminded the Senate about Pakistan’s principled stand on Palestine. (Iftikhar A Khan, “PTI asks govt to explain position over ‘Israel trade’,” Dawn, 4 April 2023; Ikram Junaidi, “PTI govt issued Israel visa for travel, not trade, says Mazari,” Dawn, 4 April 2023)
ECONOMY
Dar to lead Pakistani delegation at WB and IMF’s annual spring meeting in Washington
On 4 April, Dawn reported that Finance Minister will lead and take part in the annual meeting of the World Bank and IMF which brings the IMF Board of Governors, finance ministers of member states, heads of their central bankers, parliamentarians, private sector executives, and academics to discuss issues of global economic concerns. Bilateral packages are not discussed but they do provide an opportunity for member states to campaign for their packages. Pakistan is still discussing policies to complete the ninth review of Pakistan’s extended Fund Facility. (Anwar Iqbal, “Dar to attend IMF, World Bank meetings next week in Washington,” Dawn, 4 April 2023)
Editorial: Ballooning public debt in Pakistan
On 4 April, The Express Tribune published an editorial on the recently published report by the finance division on public debt in Pakistan. The editorial asserted that the government’s capability to sustain the total public debt has become weaker over time. Currently, at USD 232 billion, Pakistan needs to service 28 per cent of its debt in one year, which stands at USD 65 billion. The report attributed high-interest rates as one of the leading causes to witness a surge in domestic debt. The editorial claimed that borrowing and adjusting may not work for Pakistan anymore as the world becomes bipolar. (“Unsustainable public debt,” The Express Tribune, 4 April 2023)
ON INDIA
Dawn editorial: Weaponised religious procession in India
On 4 April, Dawn published an editorial on communal violence in India. The editorial asserted that riots in the recent past in India were caused by BJP’s Hindutva sarkar. The state’s intervention in such provocation has become hopeless under the current regime. The editorial called the current state of things in India a dark time for minorities. (“Communal riots,” Dawn, 4 April 2023)
“Today we stand at a crossroads in our constitutional history where we can either become Turkey or become another Myanmar. Each one of us has to choose whether to stand with the constitution, rule of law and democracy like the Justice Movement or side with the corrupt mafia, the law of the jungle and fascism.”
-Imran Khan
“Why is Pakistan a nuclear state of 240 million so weak that her political & economic decisions made in Washington, London, Beijing,Riyadh or Dubai? National disgrace.High inflation, unemployment, current A/c & fiscal crises is there with no politico-economic correction ahead. Beware.”
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi
“SC has upheld the constitution. Kudos to CJ Bandial. ECP had no right to extend the election date to October. Now the fed and provincial govt plus the ECP are on trial. Implement or defy the constitution.”
-Shafqat Mahmood
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Dr. Niaz Murtaza, State meltdown?
Dawn, 4 April 2023
"One fears cataclysmic actions by institutions against each other — executive against judiciary or vice versa — and even within. Strangely, the institution in Pindi mostly responsible for this mess is acting aloof, perhaps letting civilians create such a mess that it can again present itself as the sole saviour. Or perhaps, stung by its failed hybrid play, it is unsure of what to do. Just as the world catches a cold when the US sneezes, Pakistan sees chaos when the establishment experiences uncertainty."
Mosharraf Zaidi, Why Saudi Arabia won’t bail us out
The News International, 4 April 2023
"But a more ambitious and globally competitive Saudi Arabia than what fifty, sixty and seventy something Pakistani decision-makers can conceive demands quick, competent and decisive deal making. Absent this kind of serious engagement, Pakistani elites will be lucky to score a billion here, two billion there. Such funds continuing to trickle into Pakistan’s treasury to help prevent an apocalyptic technical default will, over the longer term, actually erode the quality of fraternal relations between the two countries. It is hard for a soaring falcon to consort too readily with an ostrich that prefers burying its head in the desert sand."
Editorial, Energy reality
The News International, 4 April 2023
"A recent study by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) highlights a largely ignored fact about Pakistan’s energy crisis. It says that only 40 per cent of Pakistanis have access to clean cooking energy. The research further says that women in rural areas have to face two acute challenges: go on a difficult journey to collect biomass for energy and suffer the health burden of respiratory issues caused by exposure to harmful smoke."
Editorial, National carrier’s dilemma
The Express Tribune, 4 April 2023
"PIA, of late, has never been treated as a company or a services sector, but rather as an entity to serve the officialdom. It was never in the professional hands as other regional airlines, who took advantage of the fissures to capture the entire Pakistani aviation market. Grounded planes, mishaps and lack of accessories, to keep it in the air, are some of the irresistible problems, and lastly politics of connivance had shattered it to the core. PIA demands restructuring on a war-footing basis and that too by credible professionals."
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“Pakistan’s reason for not taking part seems to have been the China factor.”
-An opinion in Dawn, ‘Democracy Summit’
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In Brief
ELECTIONS
Supreme Court: Three-member bench set to hear petition against election delay
On 3 April, the Supreme Court's three-member bench headed by CJP Umer Ata Bandial is set to hear Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa election issues. Additionally, they would take up PTI’s petition against ECP postponing elections and the Suo Motu matter. PDM has expressed dissatisfaction over the court hearing and plans to boycott the proceedings as the court declined the full court bench demand. There have been objections against the hearing by the three-member court where allegedly the Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan plans to submit a lack of trust petition on behalf of the PML-N, PPP and JUI-F. Imran Khan has expressed full faith in the judgement of the three-member bench court. (Muhammad Saleh Zaafir& By Sohail Khan, “All eyes on SC hearing in election delay case,” The News International, 3 April 2023 )
ECONOMY
US-Pakistan: Delegation to visit Washington for the IMF’s annual spring meeting
On 3 April, The News International reports that the Pakistan delegation plans to visit Washington DC attending the Annual Spring meeting of the International Monetary Fund from 10 -16 April. The high-power delegation would include Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance and Economic Affairs division secretaries and the SBP governor. The visit aims to present a fresh proposal to IMF and the World Bank for the dollar inflow. Additionally, they would propose to combine the remaining 10th and 11th reviews under the Extended Fund Facility (EEF) for USD 6.5 billion. The IMF programme is closing its deadline on 30 June and the 10th review got delayed. Besides that, the SBP foreign exchange reserves stood at USD 4.2 billion much lower than the asked obligation. Currently, the IMF looks into getting verification by the bilateral partners of Pakistan like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar if they could provide USD 6 billion in assistance. (Mehtab Haider, “Dar, team to visit US to attend IMF, WB meetings,” The News International, 3 April 2023)
JUDICIARY
Dawn: Pawns in the political chess game
On 3 April, Dawn’s editorial reported that the political rivalry between PML-N and PTI would preoccupy all state institutions and branches. As the country faces political turmoil, the state branches have now become pawns of the political chess game where currently the Judiciary is the victim. Judiciary has become a battleground where more barrage is fired by PML-N significant Nawaz Sharif who blames the apex court for the crisis. The current collation government's sudden interference in Judicial functioning led to amending the power under the ‘practice and procedure act.’ (“Politicising the judiciary,” Dawn, 3 April 2023)
Shehbaz Sharif: discusses the possible outcome against the delayed election case
On 2 April, PM Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with legal experts to discuss the outcome of the provincial election delay case. The discussants stated that the three-member court might indict federal authorities for not following the court mandates and delaying elections within the 90-day stipulated period. The coalition government plans to propose to the court to clarify the “ambiguity” of the seven-member bench and quantify who accepted and rejected the PTI petition. The meeting urged that they would again demand a full-court bench and in case rejected they would boycott the proceedings. (Amjad Mahmood, “SC to be urged to clear ‘ambiguity’, PM told,” Dawn, 3 April 2023)
Supreme Court is publicly divided, reports the Express Tribune
On 3 April, The Express Tribune reports on the snowballed crisis between the ruling coalition government and the CJP. Despite the apex court being reduced to just a three-member bench from nine, the supreme court would hear the petition against the issue of the delayed election. Additionally, this proceeding has garnered much criticism, especially from the ruling coalition. PMshehbaz Sharif has expressed “no confidence” in the bench and demands a full-court bench. While the court seems divided and the full court would provide a diverse perspective. (“1997 crisis: a replay,” The Express Tribune, 3 April 2023)
SECURITY
36 per cent decline in militant attacks, says a think tank report
On 3 April, Dawn reports on the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) recording a 36 per cent decline in militant attacks in March 2023. They aggregated that there were 37 attacks where 57 victims lost their lives and injured 72 people. This compared to February when there were 59 attacks which killed 58 victims and injured another 134 is a sizeable decline. They also reported a decline in suicide bombings where only one such incident took place. In Balochistan, there was a 50 per cent decline in attacks but saw a rise in the death toll where 11 attacks killed 28 people and injured 35. Major improvement can be observed in the KP tribal region where only six militant attacks took place in March against the top sixteen in February. Mainland KP saw a rise in militant attacks numbering 16 which killed 21 people while Punjab witness zero attacks in March. To curb the militant activities, 25 operations were conducted by the security forces which successfully halted several attacks by confiscating ammunition and resources. (Ikram Junaidi, “Militant attacks drop by 36pc in country as death toll stays same,” Dawn, 3 April 2023)
PROVINCE
Karachi: PTI upset with Pervaiz Elahi contacting the MQMP
On 3 April, PTI party president Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi contacted MQMP disappointing PTI General Secretary Arsalan Taj without consulting the local parliamentarians on board. He said, “ The PTI Karachi believes that the MQMP should not be contacted until it quits the coalition government of Pakistan Democratic Movement in the Centre,”. The PTI observes MQMP as supporters and part of the government, saying; “We have informed our party leadership about our decision. We believe that the MQMP is still a part of the government,” (Arshad Yousafzai, “Karachi PTI miffed at Elahi’s contact with MQMP,” The News International, 3 April 2023)
“Today we stand at a turning point in our Constitutional history where we can be like Turkiye or become another Myanmar. Everyone must choose whether they stand, as PTI does, with Constitution, Rule of Law & democracy; or with a corrupt mafia, law of the jungle & fascism.”
-Imran Khan
“Two events yesterday: 1. PDM files reference against 3 judges’ Oder & 2. IK saying that Bajwa was seeking peace with India. A paradigm change. Tomorrow:Monday April 3, 2023 will be an eventful day deciding future Pakistan. Let it not be like April 4 when one Ex PM was executed.”
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi
“Reopening of Khunjrab Pass is critical to accelerating trade between Pakistan & China. The govt is determined to unpack the full potential of CPEC by making it the centerpiece of our economic diplomacy for the region. Trade & connectivity are the building blocks of prosperity.”
-Shehbaz Sharif
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Huma Yusuf, Rebuilding trust
Dawn, 3 April 2023
“Democracy supporters wondering how to tackle the present crisis should consider establishing well-governed grant programmes to support journalism. And the media should change tack to better charter these tumultuous political waters, showing itself deserving of such public trust.”
Dr Naazir Mahmood, The 20th and 21st amendments
The News International, 3 April 2023
“Some observers considered both amendments as a betrayal of the democratic cause and parliamentary supremacy; they believed that parliament should not bend to any arm-twisting from non-political institutions, which also should not ask for constitutional amendments. Some religious parties called the 21st Amendment a conspiracy to turn Pakistan into a secular state.”
AAH Soomro, Who cares about the economy in this political tug of war?
The Express Tribune, 3 April 2023
“The system may not change. Whether the elections take place this month or in August, the faces are likely to be the same with the same mundane, old fashioned and copycat policies. These people living in posh houses with multi-million-dollars’ worth of wealth cannot possibly feel the problems of 220 million people. Optimists willing to change the system either become part of the system or die trying.”
M Zeb Khan, Disorientation of the media
The Express Tribune, 3 April 2023
“The basis of our governments being the opinions of people, the very first object should be to keep that right; and were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
Kamran Yousaf, Tough choices
The Express Tribune, 3 April 2023
“Pakistan has calculated that attending the democracy summit would have more disadvantages than advantages. As the IMF programme hangs in the balance, China is the only country which can bail Pakistan out. Therefore, it is not wise to antagonise China, officials here believe. That was the reason Pakistan stayed out of the summit. Will the gamble pay off?”
Shahid JavedBurki, China’s expanding geographic reach
The Express Tribune, 3 April 2023
“Some of the Pashtuns who have drifted back into the country were expelled when the Pakistani military carried out an effective campaign against the Taliban who were operating from the bases in North Waziristan. They are now drifting back, targeting the military and the Shiite community. Could the Beijing-sponsored deal with Saudi Arabia and Iran bring peace and relative prosperity to the tribal belts in the areas that border Afghanistan and Pakistan?”
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In Brief
INTERNAL
Meeting of the government allies
On 31 March, PM Shehbaz Sharif invited allied parties in the federal government on 1 April, aiming to discuss the judicial, economic and political crisis. They plan to discourse on the role of CJP in the top court and its powers, where recently Justice Umar Ata Bandil turned down the request to form a full court hearing in matters of elections proceedings. The PML-N government accused the judiciary of “bench fixing” and “discriminatory” judgments. They are demanding the formation of a full court deciding on the matters of elections. This comes to light after the federal government curtailed CJP powers by passing the Practice and Procedure bill, which removed the Suo Motu powers. The proposed bill now distributes the power within a three-member committee. Additionally, PTI submitted a written assurance to Supreme Court to remain peaceful if election transparency is ensured and they would hold rallies only in areas where security is ensured. (Rizwan Shehzad, “PM calls allies’ meeting amid govt-CJP face-off,” The Express Tribune, 1 April 2023; “PTI pledges peaceful conduct in elections,” The Express Tribune, 1 April 2023)
Lahore High Court: Leasing of 45,000 acre Punjab land to army halted
On 01 April, according to a report inthe News International,the LHC halted the 45,000-acre Punjab land handover to the army who wanted to lease it for corporate agriculture farming. The joint venture was signed on 8 March leasing land in the district of Bhakkar, Khushab and Sahiwal. Justice Abid Hussain Chattha ruled the barring of the “lease of state land” for the above-mentioned reasons. Additionally, it argued that the mandate and scope of the caretaker government are limited and they should be limited to performing day-to-day functions and not making permanent policy decisions. ( Numan Wahab, “LHC stops handover of 45,000-acre Punjab land to army on lease,” The News International, 1 April 2023)
Nawaz Sharif urges the formation of full court
On 31 March, Nawaz Sharif supported the call for the formation of the full court to hear petition against the delay of elections and PTI. He called the three-member bench contentious and that a “terrible joke” was being played against the people of Pakistan. Additionally, he questioned the need for the formation of the three-member bench and urged the presence of the full court. He stated that these are major issues with ramifications and that they should be brushed aside. Furthermore, he was disappointed by the overall state of Pakistan's economy and criticised the wrong decisions made by those in power. (Murtaza Ali Shah,“ Ex-PM questions rationale behind three-member bench,” The News International, 1 April 2023)
JUDICIARY
Suo Motu proceeding: Justice Mandokhli and Justice Afridi issue a dissenting note
On 31 March, Supreme Court Judges Jamal Khan Mandokhail and Yahya Afridi wrote a dissenting note over the Suo Motu proceeding held on 1 March. Justice Mandokhali stated that the court order was dictated during his absence and without consultation. He further state that he wanted to resolve the matter without any controversy and that he and other political parties raised the matter but they did not respond. Additionally, he said that these matters should be resolved in the full court and said, “I would be available if the full court gets constituted, otherwise I pray that the decision of my co-member judges establishes the supremacy of the Constitution.” (“Justice Mandokhail prays for institution,” The News International, 1 April 2023)
President approves withdrawal of Justice Isa from CMA and curative review reference
On 31 March, President Arif Alvi approved the withdrawal of the curative review reference and Civil Miscellaneous Application (CMA) against Justice Qazi Faez Isa. Justice Isa was accused of acquiring three properties in London without disclosing them under wealth return. The withdrawal comes after the advice proposed by PM Shehbaz Sharif who asked for the withdrawal claiming that the accusations were “baseless” and “flimsy”. The PM accused the previous government of framing Justice Isa and that it was a conspiracy to divide the independence of the judiciary. (“President okays withdrawal of reference against Isa,” Dawn, 1 April 2023)
PROVINCES
Sindh: Georgia to become Sindh’s sister-state
On 23 March, Dawn reported on a press release that the US State of Georgia and the province of Sindh are set to establish sister-state relations under a resolution passed by Georgia’s legislature. The press release said that Farooq Mughal, the first Pakistani Muslim American elected to the Georgia House of Representatives, was instrumental in getting the US government and Georgia House of Representatives members to support this resolution. (“Georgia to become Sindh’s sister-state,” Dawn, 23 March 2023)
Sindh: Stampede during food distribution claims 12 lives in Karachi
On 31 March, at least 12 women and children were killed in a deadly crush at a Ramazan food and cash distribution centre, set up by a private company in Karachi. On 31 March, CM Murad Ali Shah announced PKR 500,000 compensation for the legal heirs of each deceased during the stampede. He also announced PKR 100,000 for each injured person. Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that the factory management did not inform the police or district administration about the distribution of charity. (Waqas Ali, “Runaway inflation, ill-planned handout distribution blamed for stampede,” Dawn, 1 April, 2023)
Punjab: Protest over poor arrangements for free flour distribution
On 31 March, hundreds of people of staged a protest rally and sit in protest in front of local administration office in Bahawalnagar. There was dissent against reducing the number of flour distribution points from 19 to three. The provincial government had issued a provision for free flour distribution during Ramzan month. Dawn quoting an anonymous revenue official reported that a scam of millions of rupees was being done in the guise of a free flour scheme. (Ejaz Chaudhry, “Protest against poor arrangements for free flour distribution,” Dawn, 1 April, 2023)
Balochistan/KP: Terrorist ‘sensitisation’ activity claims one life
On 31 March, a press release from ISPR said that a soldier embraced martyrdom during an exchange of fire with terrorists in the Mir Ali area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district. The report added that senior serving and retired officers, soldiers, relatives and a large number of people attended the funeral where the sepoy was laid to “rest with full military honour”. Separately, in Sibi, Balochistan, a terrorist was killed during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the general area of Noshman. The ISPR added that multiple ambushes had been laid along different routes in the area frequented by terrorists for the past two days based on credible information. (“Soldier martyred during exchange of fire with terrorists in North Waziristan: ISPR,” Dawn, 1 April, 2023)
ECONOMY
Consumer Price Index recorded at 35.4 per cent on a year on year basis
On 31 March, weekly data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) indicated that Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation clocked in at 35.4 per cent on a year-on-year basis in March 2023 compared to 12.7 per cent in March 2022. As per PBS data, the food group, which commands a significant weight i.e. 34.58 per cent in the inflation reading, remained the major driver behind the increase. Dawn quoted an analyst who said: “Going forward, inflation is expected to stay in this range at least for the next two months, it will recede from June onwards due to high base effect.” The monthly economic update and outlook for the month of March released by Finance Division mentioned recovery yet to be seen after lagged effect of floods, and production losses, especially of major agriculture crops. CPI inflation in urban and rural areas increased to 33.0 per cent and 38.9 per cent respectively on a year-on-year basis in March 2023. (“Pakistan’s CPI inflation reading in March clocks in at 35.4% YoY,” Business Recorder, 1 April, 2023)
Public debt stood at USD 253.4 billion by December 2022
On 31 March, Finance Division issued an update on its debt management portal indicating that Pakistan’s public debt has increased to PKR 52.721 trillion by December 2022 from PKR 49.194 trillion end of June 2022. The domestic debt stood at 63 per cent and external debt 37 per cent with maturity profile of 28 per cent I year followed by 21 per cent 2-3 years, 16 per cent 4-5 years, 18 per cent 6-7 years, 8 per cent 9-10 years and 10 per cent 10 years. The total debt of the government stood at PKR 47.964 trillion and government deposits with banking system stood at PKR 4.757 trillion by end December 2022. The T-Bills/GDP ratio reduced from 10 per cent (end June 2022) to 7 per cent (end December 2022); the government carried out gross issuance of around PKR 4 trillion of Pakistan Investment Bonds, out of which, 81 per cent was through floating rate bonds. The impact of other economic flows during July-December 2022 was mainly due to the rupee depreciation against US dollar by almost 11 per cent which resulted in an increase in total public debt by PKR 2,268 billion. (“Public debt increases to Rs52.721trn by Dec 2022,” Business Recorder, 1 April, 2023)
NEPRA approves uniform tariff raise by PKR 3.23 per unit
On 31 March, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has formally approved surcharge of PKR 3.23 per unit for all categories of consumers across the country sans protected domestic consumers using up to 200 units per month. Express Tribune attributed the decision to an understanding between IMF and authorities to pay mark-up on Pakistan Holding Limited (PHL) loans and clear circular debt. NEPRA was informed by the representative of the Power Division that presently the financial obligations of the government are around PKR 2.6 trillion, which includes over PKR 1.7 trillion payables to IPPs and PKR 765 billion of PHL loans. The Power Division stated that option of provincialisation of Discos, decentralisation of Discos through independent Boards with accountability through KPIs, improvement in loss reduction through investments, outsourcing of high loss feeders, cost reduction through negotiations with IPPs, increasing the share of renewables, exploring the options of PPP and circular debt management plan are all being considered to remove/minimise inefficiencies so that 2 to 3 years down the line, Discos could be transformed. (Mushtaq Ghumman, “All categories of consumers: Nepra approves Rs3.23/ unit surcharge,” Business Recorder, 1 April, 2023)
“There are indications that Pakistan's parliament, which is controlled by the governing coalition, might well ask the Supreme Court to disqualify Imran Khan from running for election and even prohibit PTI in the next few days.”
-Zalmay Khalilzad
“Today, the case of their workers imprisoned by this government of criminals will be raised not only in the courts but also in front of international human rights organizations. The leaders of Tehreek-e-Insaf around the world should inform their elected local representatives and politicians about this ongoing fascism in Pakistan.”
-Imran Khan
“Strongly condemn the custodial torture that is being done on our workers & ldrs including Amjad Niazi, & now, from what I have learnt, on Hassaan Niazi who was first abducted, immed after he got bail, & then named falsely in another FIR. Shameful fascism & law of the jungle.”
-Imran Khan
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Editorial, Vox populi
Dawn, 22 March 2023
“They should remember that no force will be enough to legitimise their actions if they are deemed to have conspired together to subvert the Constitution just to prevent the PTI from securing a mandate from the public. If the PML-N will not see reason, the other parties should reconsider their role in this ugly game.”
Zahid Hussain, The clock is ticking
Dawn, 22 March 2023
“What is happening now may not be unfamiliar to Pakistani politics that has remained stuck in a vicious cycle of vendetta, but the current chaos seems far more consequential, with the country on the verge of economic collapse. The clock is ticking but our power elite appear to be least troubled by the gathering storm.”
Editorial, Political crisscross
The Express Tribune, 22 March 2023
“All of them are alive and kicking in their renewed circumference, and enjoy public support. Thus, a similar misadventure with the PTI would only vindicate its current stance. The approach should be to come up with a level-playing field under the ambit of law and constitution, and let the people decide.”
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“The clock is ticking but our power elite appear to be least troubled by the gathering storm.”
-An opinion in Dawn, ‘The clock is ticking’
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