In Brief
INTERNAL
ECC approves disbursement of Rs 103 billion for flood victims
On 30 August, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved the immediate disbursement of Rs25,000 each to 4.125 million families affected by the recent rains and floods, involving an additional fiscal impact of Rs103 billion. Additionally, the ECC authorised the signing of agreements with a couple of G-20 countries under the Covid-19 debt relief initiative for the poor nations, announced in April 2020.

UN Secretary-General to visit the flood-affected areas
On 31 August, The News International reported that UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announce UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres would visit areas most impacted by the rain-induced floods in Pakistan in efforts to express solidarity and stand with the people of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), stated that 650,000 pregnant women, of whom 73,000 are expected to deliver next month are in dire need of maternal health service amid the devasting floods in Pakistan. Acting UNFPA Pakistan Representative said, “UNFPA is on the ground, working with partners, to ensure that pregnant women and new mothers continue receiving life-saving services even under the most challenging conditions.” (Amin Ahmed, “More than half million pregnant women among flood-hit in dire need of care: UNFPA,” Dawn, 31 August 2022; Khaleeq Kiani, “Disbursement of Rs103bn to flood-hit families okayed,” Dawn, 31 August 2022; “UN chief to arrive in flood-ravaged Pakistan next week on solidarity visit,” The News International, 31 August 2022)

PTI to take new challenges if voted to power again
On 30 August, Imran Khan admitted to having made blunders after coming to power in 2018 but vowed to take steps that have never been taken before to get the economy out of the crisis if his party gets another chance to rule the country. Imran Khan claimed that if his party came to power again, he will have better knowledge about economic challenges and their solutions, as he has decided to form an ‘economic team’ to assess them beforehand.(Ikram Junaidi, “PTI to take ‘unprecedented’ decisions if voted into power again,” Dawn, 31 August 2022)

Tight security for Imran to appear in IHC
 On 31 August, Imran Khan appears before the Islamabad High Court under tight security. As per the security orders issued by the government earlier today, only lawyers on the cause list will be allowed to enter the high court after security checks, and the court has been secured by barbed wire. At least a thousand junior rank officers and officials have been posted around the IHC, while the Security Division is responsible for providing security inside the court premises. (“Saqib Bashir, “Imran to appear before IHC amidst strict security today,” The Express Tribune, 31 August 2022)

Imran and three others charged with treason case
On 29 August, a complaint has been filed with Islamabad police to register a treason case against Imran Khan, Shaukat Tarin, Mohsin Khan Leghari and Taimur Khan Jhagra on the basis of two audio clips surfaced via TV channels and social media in which a man said to be Mr. Tarin can be heard guiding the two provincial ministers to tell the federal government and the IMF that they would not be able to commit to a provincial budget surplus in light of the recent floods that have wreaked havoc in Pakistan. The audios triggered criticism against PTI and the ruling collation alleged that it was nothing but a conspiracy to derail the government’s deal with the IMF. The complainant said Imran Khan had already stated that Pakistan will default just like Sri Lanka. He alleged that such conspiracies were being hatched at the direction of foreign powers and it was treason. The complainant requested the police take legal action against all four suspects. (Ikram Junaidi, “Treason case sought against Imran, three others,” Dawn, 31 August 2022)

Demands to legislate the limits for state institutions over disappearances
On 30 August, during an event held to mark the International Day of Enforced Disappearances calls were made to introduce legislation to ensure that limits were imposed on state institutions, and former lawmakers and activists demanded that laws that lay down boundaries for the functioning of intelligence agencies should be introduced. A large number of human rights activists, politicians, and lawyers gathered outside the office of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) to demand that the state must act against those involved in enforced disappearances. Former PPP senator Farhatullah Babar said a new legal architecture was needed to tackle the problem of enforced disappearances, and bringing the intelligence apparatus under the ambit of the law should be its central pillar. He further said, “An inadequate Bill was moved in the National Assembly in June 2021 to address the issue, but even that bill seems to have disappeared.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Call to legislate limits for state institutions over disappearances,” Dawn, 31 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Gwadar safe city seeks revised PC-1
On 30 August, Ahsan Iqbal directed the government to revise its PC-1 before the next Central Working Development Party (CDWP) meeting in order to complete the Gwadar Safe City Project (GSCP) in six months. The minister issued the directives while chairing a steering committee meeting to review progress on the GSCP. The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for providing technical and operational support to the Gwadar Safe City Project and to the government of Balochistan which is the main sponsoring agency of the project. During the meeting, the Balochistan chief secretary briefed the minister about the current status of the project. (“Revised PC-1 sought for Gwadar safe city,” The Express Tribune, 31 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Sugar Advisory board gets reconstituted by the government 
On 31 August, The Express Tribune reported that the federal government has issued a notification that reconstituted the Sugar Advisory Board and appointed the federal minister for national food security as its chairman Trade minister, trade secretary, industries and production secretary and food security secretary have been appointed as the members of the board. The notification said that each provincial government will have a representative as a board member. Chairmen of the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association in Islamabad, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa will be included as board members. (“Govt reconstitutes Sugar Advisory Board,” The Express Tribune, 31 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Government to issue permits to facilitate onion and tomato imports from Iran and Afghanistan
On 30 August, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research announced that it would issue permits within 24 hours to facilitate onion and tomato imports from Iran and Afghanistan. Additionally, the ministry has also requested that the Federal Board of Revenue to waive taxes and levies on onion and tomato imports for the next three months and expects that this will be made effective immediately. Meanwhile, on importing food items from India, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail stated that the government would take a decision after consulting its coalition partners and key stakeholders. (Amin Ahmed, “Govt to allow onion, tomato imports from Iran, Afghanistan,” Dawn, 31 August 2022; “Decision to import food items from India after consultation: Miftah Ismail,” The News International, 31 August 2022)

Zahid Hussain, The IMF deal and beyond
Dawn, 31 August 2022
Indeed, the IMF deal has given the country some breathing space but the challenges ahead are far more daunting. We may be out of the ICU but we are not yet out of the woods. Worsening political instability remains the biggest impediment in the way of economic recovery.

Editorial, Miftah’s victory
Dawn, 31 August 2022
The advice for the finance minister is straightforward: he should not dwell too long on this victory. An IMF loan is not all that his legacy should be about. If with his grit, he can start setting some of the economy’s fundamentals on the right track in whatever time he still has in office, the nation will have something to be genuinely grateful to him for.

Shahrukh Wani, How to break the IMF cycle
The News International, 31 August 2022
Our usual practice of getting an IMF loan and ignoring our structural problems will lead us back to the IMF’s door in a year or two. The cycle will continue. Again, and again. To change this, Pakistan must do what it hasn’t done before -- it must reform, meaningfully. It must change a system that subsidises firms that are barely able to export.

Editorial, Pakistan-IMF deal
The News International, 31 August 2022
While now is a good time to acknowledge the hard work that went into achieving this end, it is equally important to realize that this is not time to take a respite. It is also important to recognize that the lion’s share of hard work that went into bringing the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) back to life came from the common folk.

Editorial, Deal and aftermath
The Express Tribune, 31 August 2022
Pakistan is in dire need of inclusive growth, one that caters to human security, as well as doing away with the phenomenon of subsidies and protectionism. Opting for stringent austerity and underscoring on developmental projects through foreign investment and privatisation proceeds are indispensable measures.

Editorial, Rebuild better
Dawn, 31 August 2022
There is only one way to prevent urban centres from coming under further pressure, especially in times of natural calamities like floods which, with climate change upon us, are sure to occur more frequently. After the initial phase of rescue and relief is over, the authorities must embark on a long-term reconstruction plan that involves the development of secondary cities as well as measures to enhance flood resilience in rural areas.

Editorial, Fumigation required
Dawn, 31 August 2022
Rather than the equal application of the law and justice, the common factor is the targeting of those who fall out of favour with the establishment. If we want to progress with fairness, selective justice cannot be our modus operandi.

Abdul Sattar, Learning from catastrophes
The News International, 31 August 2022
The recent floods have not only exposed the flawed development models but also put a question mark over the tall claims of the ruling elite that pretends to be altruistic…If our politicians are really sincere in preventing precious losses in the future, they must purge disaster bodies of non-professionals, clear all waterways and empower local bodies.

Talat Masood, Coping with the climate induced calamity
The Express Tribune, 31 August 2022
It is possible if people lose confidence in the leadership, democracy and economy would suffer badly. One hopes sanity would prevail and Pakistan’s leadership address the woes of the flood-stricken people and set aside their differences for the greater good of the country and its people.

In Brief 
INTERNAL
UN to launch USD 161 million ‘flash appeal’ for Pakistan
On 30 August, Dawn reported that the United Nations is scheduled to launch a USD 161 million ‘flash appeal’ on 30 August in efforts to provide food and cash assistance to Pakistan amid the devastating rain-induced floods. According to Dawn, the United Nations urgently needs USD 34.28 million to scale up immediate relief efforts. Meanwhile, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan called for “burden-sharing and solidarity” in the wake of a “climate-change driven catastrophe” which is expected to worsen. (Amin Ahmed, “UN’s flash appeal today as flood aid trickles in,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

"Literally a third" of Pakistan is under water, says Minister for Climate Change
On 29 August, Federal Minister for Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman termed the rain-induced floods as a "crisis of unimaginable proportions." She said that "literally a third" of Pakistan was under water, describing it as akin to a dystopian movie. Further, Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal said that Pakistan needs more than USD 10 billion to repair and rebuild infrastructure damaged by monsoon rains,
Meanwhile, heavy flow of water coursing downstream from tributaries in the north continued to put pressure on the Indus River in Sindh, threatening to burst its banks after inundating millions of acres of rich farmland due to weeks of non-stop rain. (“Pakistan needs $10bn for flood repairs, rebuilding: Ahsan Iqbal,” Dawn, 30 August 2022; “Heavy water flow threatens to burst Indus banks,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022; “Sherry says ‘literally a third’ of country under water,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022)

SHC admits a petition to lift the media ban on MQM leader
On 29 August, the Sindh High Court admitted a petition filed by former MPA Nisar Ahmad Panhwar requesting the lifting of the media ban on the founder of MQM. The court after hearing the arguments accepted the case and adjourned the hearing. The media ban on the founder of MQM is a violation of Articles 4, 17, 19, and 25 of the Constitution, the petition states, adding that the concerned authorities were approached to remove the ban but no action has been taken. The plea demands that the MQM founder should be given permission for political and welfare activities in the country, and the restrictions imposed on him should be removed. (“Court admits petition to lift media ban on MQM founder,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022)

Shahbaz Gill’s Bail plea gets rejected
On 30 August, the district and sessions court of Islamabad rejected the bail plea of Shahbaz Gill in a sedition case. The court was apprised by Gill’s lawyer that his client was ready to apologize for any misunderstanding in the case regarding inciting mutiny in the army. Special Prosecutor Raja Rizwan Abbasi had argued that sedition was committed 'clearly', adding that the words of the accused Gill were not excusable in any way. Defence lawyer Burhan Moazzam said that the statement of his client was twisted and an FIR was registered against him. (Saqib Bashir, “Court rejects Gill's bail plea,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022)

Delay in curriculum approval raises questions in the Education Ministry
On 30 August, Dawn reported that the Ministry of Education notified the national curriculum for classes fifth to eighth a few months ago. Subsequently, students started the new academic session with new books. However, no curriculum has been notified for students from minority communities. Without a notified curriculum, students belonging to seven religious communities Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Kalash, Bahai, Buddhist, and Parsi have been pursuing education without their religious books. The Joint Secretary of Education Waseem Jamal said that the content of the curriculum was being examined as some experts say the subject of ethics should be continued in schools for minorities while others say more religious education should be imparted to minority students. Further, he said the issue would be resolved within a week and it will be settled by the wishes and aspirations of religious minorities and the rules and regulations of the country. (Kashif Abbasi, “Delay in approval of curriculum for minority students raises eyebrows,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
President Xi gets praise for people-centric development
On 30 August, The Express Tribune reported that President Xi Jinping was praised by speakers at an event organized by Pakistan China Institute. The panellists discussed the prospects of the 20th National Congress of the CPC, which will be held later in 2022. During the event, Pakistan-China Institute Executive Director introduced the “Friends of Silk Road Initiative” which has become a platform to understand China and bridge people-to-people connectivity between Pakistan and China. Further, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar claimed that China is a pillar of peace and stability in the region and a preserver, promotor, and protector of principles of peaceful coexistence in the region. Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong termed Pakistan-China relations as ‘rock-solid’. (“Xi lauded for ‘people-centric development,” The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022)

ECONOMY
 IMF approves seventh and eighth review loan valuing at USD 1.1 billion
On 29 August, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail shared the news of the approval of a loan of USD 1.1 billion under the extended fund facility (EFF) signed between Pakistan and IMF in 2019. The statement from IMF pointed out that the disbursement “brings total purchases (money made available) for budget support under this arrangement to about USD 3.9 billion.” It added, “It is also important to continue to expand social safety to protect the most vulnerable and accelerate structural reforms including to improve the performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and governance.” IMF’s Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair Antoinette Sayeh advised on continuing a tight monetary policy, which she said, “would help to reduce inflation and help address external imbalances,” adding that “maintaining proactive and data-driven monetary policy would support these objectives.” The new coalition government has removed the price caps, with petrol and diesel prices going up by as much as 66per cent and 92 per cent in over a month. On 21 June, Pakistani authorities and the IMF staff mission reached an understanding on the current federal budget to revive the stalled programme as the former committed to generating PKR 436bn more taxes and gradually increasing petroleum levy to PKR 50 per litre. An IMF staff review acknowledged that important progress had been made over the federal budget. (Anwar Iqbal, “IMF approves much-needed $1.1bn payout,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

PKR strengthens against USD after IMF board approval of EFF
On 30 August, PKR began with a recovery of 2.92 PKR in the first hour of interbank trade after finance minister declared on the successful approval of Extended Fund Facility (EFF) by IMF. IMF’s Executive Board completed the combined 7th and 8th reviews of a loan facility for Pak­is­tan, allowing immediate disbursement of USD 1.1 billion to the country. PKR had started falling again from 17 August, losing PKR 8.02 till yesterday (29 August). (Talqeen Zubairi, “PKR gains nearly Rs3 against dollar in interbank as IMF approves disbursement,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

PSX bearish due to flood-related damage to the economy
On 29 August, stock market posted a minor loss and closed down by almost loosing 1000 points in a single day trading. First National Equities Limited Chief Executive Ali Malik said “The damage caused by the floods cannot be calculated yet [but it] is widespread. Inflation in Pakistan will rise very high because crops have been wasted and livestock killed. We will have to become a net importer of these, so foreign exchange will be involved. Secondly, our exports will be reduced and local consumption will rise.” (Talqeen Zubairi, “Floods drag down PSX despite IMF bailout,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

ON INDIA
Government mulling over imports of vegetables from India
On 29 August, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail declared that the government was planning to allow the duty-free import of vegetables and other edible items from India through the Wagah border to minimise the negative impact of rising inflation on the people. Following the announcement, the business community voiced its support for the proposal, but cautioned the government to restrict traders to import only raw vegetable and not finished goods. According to Yasir Bhatti, a Lahore-based importer currently in Kabul, the government must open trade with India by initially getting tomato, onion and other required vegetables. (Khaleeq Kiani, Khalid Hasnain, “‘Veg-imports’ from India floated to control prices,” Dawn, 30 August 2022)

Arifa Noor, The fault lies not in our stars
Dawn, 30 August 2022
But the problem is that climate change is also turning into an excuse. The phrase has become as popular as, say, ‘lockdown’ was two years ago. If anyone needs proof, simply hear talk-show discussions, where the word pops up regularly. It seems to be the excuse we needed to absolve ourselves of responsibility.

Tabinda Ashraf Shahid, Disaster & diet
Dawn, 30 August 2022
It’s about time our policymakers and government departments shed their outdated and failed notions of economic, agricultural, and social development and find ways to incorporate innovative ideas that connect local climate realities to developmental needs. Moreover, while adjusting to the new climatic realities and building resilience through environment-friendly development, there is also a need to focus on developing frameworks for recovering from current climatic impact challenges.

Editorial, International responsibility
Dawn, 30 August 2022
If millions and billions can continue to be poured into wars that kill and destroy, the world can also find funds to restore and rebuild. The cost of the climate crisis must not be for the most vulnerable countries to bear alone. The developed nations must take responsibility to restore at least some of the damage their actions have caused.

Editorial, Food inflation
Dawn, 30 August 2022
One way of improving the supply of essential food items to ease pressure on prices would be to reopen trade with India to allow the import of vegetables and staples through surface routes. That may not tackle the problem completely, but it will provide some relief to inflation-stricken households and allow the authorities to focus on rehabilitating the millions who have been affected by the deluge.

Hassan Aftab, Pakistan’s upcoming nemesis — climate change
The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022
Pakistan must re-think its developmental framework to re-build climate resilient infrastructure to reduce exposure and vulnerability to hazards such as the 2022 floods. There is a need for a concerted effort by the state, and institutions to address the infrastructural inequities experienced by vulnerable communities today. Else, millions will suffer the consequences.

Editorial, A 15th polio case
The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022
A general realisation should be adopted that external help is not for carrying out ulterior motives, but to prevent the virus from spreading to other countries. A single case of wild polio in New York put the entire country in a frenzy. Similarly, in Pakistan, scientific rationality must prevail over fictional discourses.

Editorial, Blame-game politics
The Express Tribune, 30 August 2022
It is regrettable that the Taliban, despite enjoying cordiality with Islamabad, choose to air their grievances through the media. It might lead to regression of ties, and there is no dearth of non-state actors who want to exploit the situation to mess around, and destroy peace in the region.

Mosharraf Zaidi, A scorched earth, now drowning
The News International, 30 August 2022
Pakistan has plenty of both, and has had it for a long time. Disaster management and climate change both have laws, ministries, departments and substantial budgets in Islamabad. Some measure of similar capital stock exists in the provinces too. Where does it not exist? That same place where Pakistani governance goes to die: The District.

G Shabbir Shah, Unlocking the top slots
The News International, 30 August 2022
The senior-most judges must therefore be considered automatically by the JCP & only once the JCP considers them unsuitable can the next in line be considered. In the search for the very best, the JCP may still decide to pick someone from the bottom but at least this time the seniors too would have been nominated and fairly considered by the entire JCP. This would be a win-win for all! The JCP rules cannot be cited as an impediment. They can either amicably be amended by the JCP or struck down on account of being ultra vires the constitution.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan directed to submit his reply in the Toshakhana case by 7 September
On 29 August, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja heard the case and granted more time to Imran Khan in the case of appropriating Toshkhana gifts to him. The Toshakhana case was brought before the electoral watchdog last year after the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) accepted an application on the matter and directed the Cabinet Division to provide information about the gifts received by the then-prime minister Imran Khan from foreign dignitaries. (“ECP asks Imran to submit reply in Toshakhana case on Sept 7,” The Express Tribune, 29 August 2022)

Imran’s ban on live telecast to be moved to IHC
On 29 August, Imran Khan challenged the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority‘s (PEMRA) notice, banning live telecast of his speeches, in the Islamabad High Court. The petition filed by Khan’s lawyers said, “While referring to the violence against party member Shahbaz Gill, Imran had requested to take legal action against those responsible.” It furthered that as a citizen the law has given the right to take legal action and that the PTI chief’s speech was mistaken as hate speech. The petition added that Imran’s stance to call for legal action against those responsible for Gill's "torture" does not fall under hate speech.(“Imran moves IHC against ban on live telecast of speeches,” The Express Tribune, 29 August 2022)

Maintaining of contempt plea of Sharif brothers to be decided by IHC
On 29 August, the IHC reserved the decision on whether it will or will not hear the contempt of court petition against Shahbaz Sharif and Nawaz Sharif regarding the elder Sharif’s return to Pakistan. According to the petition against the Sharif brothers, Nawaz went abroad with the permission of the Lahore High Court due to illness and his brother had submitted an affidavit that Nawaz Sharif would return after his recovery but did not, in fact, return. The petition requested that Nawaz be labelled an “offender” and contempt of court proceedings ensued against both brothers. The court maintained that the petition would have been dismissed with an exemplary fine and concluded that an appropriate order will be issued on the request. (“IHC to decide on maintainability of contempt plea against Sharif brothers,” The Express Tribune, 29 August 2022)

ECONOMY 
PKR slides by 1.34 against USD
On 29 August, PKR remained under pressure due to the destruction of crops which would lead to a higher current account deficit since Pakistan would have to import wheat. Data shared by the Forex Association of Pakistan showed the local currency was changing hands at PKR 222 per dollar at 11:45am, down 0.6 per cent. The United States dollar surged to a 20-year high against a basket of currencies today after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signalled interest rates would be kept higher for longer to bring down soaring inflation. After reaching a record low of PKR 239.94 against the dollar on 28 July, the local currency had recovered to PKR 213.90 in the interbank by 16 August. However, it has since continued to fall, losing PKR 8.1 till Aug 26. (Talqeen Zubairi, “PKR falls by Rs1.34 in interbank market,” Dawn, 29 August 2022)
 
PSX opens the week in red, index slides by 652 points
On 29 August, the benchmark had lost 652.13 points, or 1.53 per cent, to reach 41,939.38 points. Head of Research at Intermarket Securities, Raza Jafri, said: Asian markets are sharply lower today, following the heavy 3pc decline in US markets on Friday. This is playing out at the KSE-100 also.” Jafri said that while the resumption of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was imminent with its executive board set to meet today, the market was also wary because of the floods and the political situation. (Talqeen Zubairi, “PSX mimics global markets, plunges 652 points in early trade,” Dawn, 29 August 2022)

Executive Board of IMF to consider a bailout package for Pakistan
On 29 August, the executive board of the IMF met to consider a bailout package for Pakistan as Islamabad claims to tie up at least 37 billion USD in loans and investments. If the board approves the deal, the IMF will immediately disburse about 1.2 billion USD to Pakistan and may provide up to USD four billion over the remainder of the current fiscal year, which began on 1 July. Pakistan is likely to request emergency help from the IMF’s Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI), which may bring additional funds of up to 500 million USD. (Anwar Iqbal, “Crucial IMF meeting for renewal of loan plan today,” Dawn, 29 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Yaqoob’s accusation ‘Highly Regrettable’, says Pakistan
On 28 August, Pakistan termed the accusations made by Afghanistan’s Acting Defense Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob “conjectural allegations”. In a statement, the Foreign Office spokesperson said that the statement was “highly regrettable” and defied the “norms of responsible diplomatic conduct”. He further said, “In the absence of any evidence, as acknowledged by the Afghan minister himself, such conjectural allegations are highly regrettable and defy the norms of responsible diplomatic conduct.” Afghan defense minister Mujahid accused Pakistan earlier today of providing airspace for US drones to enter his country, characterizing the incursions as a continuation of Washington's "invasion".(“Pakistan terms Afghan minister's comments 'highly regrettable',” The News International, 29 August 2022)

46 Chinese passenger coaches to be received in December
On 28 August, The Pakistani Railways team reached China and after inspecting the prototypes of the coaches and modern high-capacity wagons and receiving training on manufacturing of such rolling stock, the railways will receive 46 coaches of 230 from China in December. The railway is working to upgrade the dilapidated track as the Khanpur-Kotri section is not fit for high-speed train operation. Most of the ML-1 parts are fit for the 120km per hour train operation, and after the completion of the ML-1 project under the CPEC, the entire ML-1 track would have the capacity to bear the rolling stock operations at the speed of 160km per hour. Under 140 million USD contract (Rs31 billion, approximately), the Chinese company is to manufacture 230 state-of-the-art passenger coaches, of which 46 will be provided as completely built units and the remaining 184 will be manufactured in Pakistan by the PR engineers and technical staff under the supervision of the Chinese experts.(Khalid Hasnain, “Railway to receive 46 Chinese passenger coaches by December,” Dawn, 29 August 2022)

Maleeha Lodhi, Fraud and fury in Kashmir
Dawn, 29 August 2022
Delhi’s policies of oppression and subterfuge have been a failure in Kashmir and only intensified the alienation of its people. If and when so-called elections are held, they will be a sham exercise boycotted by most Kashmiris, like previous ones. The only way the dark era in Kashmir can end is if the issue is resolved in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people and UN resolutions. Until then, its tragedy will continue and South Asia will be denuded of peace.

Kulsum Ahmed and Farah Said, Unlocking women’s potential
Dawn, 29 August 2022
Shifting to a culture that values women’s economic participation will take time…The Quaid pointed out the importance of the role of women even before Pakistan came into existence. But we fall very short after 75 years. Could we achieve the Quaid’s vision, of a nation at its height of glory with women side by side with men, in time for Pakistan’s 100th birthday?

Editorial, I-voting by Pakistanis abroad
Dawn, 29 August 2022
It is for the legislators, and not the courts, to decide on a reasonable time frame and a prudent course of action. Aside from logistical considerations, the need to ensure secrecy of the ballot is paramount. Anything less would provide yet another reason for election results to be disputed and generate controversy.

Editorial, Smog master plan
Dawn, 29 August 2022
Finally, it seems, the authorities are waking up to the effects of Lahore’s year-round poor air quality that intensifies the smog challenge in the colder months. However, based on whatever little has been revealed of the master plan, it is difficult to establish its effectiveness on the ground.

Dengue threat
The Express Tribune, 29 August 2022
Another widespread outbreak would strain government resources and pose severe problems for the government in terms of allocating resources for the different crises. Our frail healthcare system would also struggle to manage the virus outbreak along with Covid and facilitate flood victims. Thus, the municipal administrations and the public should stay vigilant and take safety measures.

Touqir Hussain, Domestic foreign policy issues
The News International, 29 August 2022
Though for years diplomats tried to overcome Pakistan’s diminished international standing and problems at home to punch above their weight, that is no longer possible. The gap between Pakistan’s diplomacy and its foreign policy has now closed. Pakistan may not be isolated but is certainly stranded. And it continues to live dangerously. That is sad. Pakistan had so much going but it has squandered its strengths and treasured its weaknesses.

Editorial, Working together
The News International, 29 August 2022
If the PTI thinks that political rallies cannot take a backseat even for a few weeks, this is on them and not on the media. Finding conspiracies in everything may be the PTI’s forte but it doesn’t take away from the fact that any effort to help the flood victims will fall short. The coming months, especially a harsh winter due to climate change and major impending foot shortages, will be difficult for the flood victims and the country – and we will need everyone to pull together on this.

Editorial, Rule by mob
The News International, 29 August 2022
If vigilante justice and lynching continue, society is likely to break down rapidly. In this scenario the role of law enforcement and the courts becomes pretty significant. The blasphemy laws have been weaponized to cower into submission not just minorities but anyone who dare stand up for their rights. It is long past time for rule of law to be upheld and for the state to show that it treats everyone equally regardless of creed.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Government decides to deploy the army in all provinces amid flooding
On 27 August, Dawn reported that the government has decided to deploy the army in all provinces to help the civilian authorities in rescue operations in the calamity-hit areas. According to Dawn, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah stated that the Punjab government had requisitioned the army’s deployment in Dera Ghazi Khan, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa wanted the army’s assistance in Dera Ismail Khan. Meanwhile, Balochistan sought the deployment of the personnel in Nasirabad, Jhal Magsi, Sohbatpur, Jafarabad and Lasbela districts while Sindh also sought the military’s help in the flood-hit districts.  (“Army called in as KP faces flood threat,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)

UN to release USD 160 million Flash Appeal for Pakistan
On 27 August, Dawn reported that the UN has decided to launch a USD 160 million Flash Appeal to help millions of people affected by monsoon rains in Pakistan. Foreign Office spokesman Asim Iftikhar said: “A UN Flash Appeal is going to be launched on Tuesday 30 August simultaneously from Geneva and Islamabad.” Further, he claimed that the UN flash appeal was very significant, and it would trigger the international community’s response as well as bilateral assistance from other countries. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “UN plans $160m Flash Appeal,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)

Search warrant for Imran’s house sought
On 27 August, Dawn reported that Islamabad police have asked the high command to issue a search warrant for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s Banigala residence in connection with the case against Dr Shahbaz Gill, while a satellite phone and a weapon recovered from the ap­­artment allotted to Mr Gill at Parliament Lodges have been sent for forensic examination. Also, the police have made a list of PTI leaders who were at the house on 8 August and the media persons who had contacted the leaders. The list was prepared through geofencing and call data records of the people present there. (Munawer Azeem, “Search warrant for Imran’s house sought,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Writ petition signed in LHC against handling over control of PIA assets
On 26 August, Lahore High Court was requested to restrain the federal government from striking a “deal” with Qatar allegedly for selling 51 per cent shares of the Pakistan Internat­ional Airlines (PIA), and handing over the administrative control of the national flag carrier and the Islamabad International Airport to the Gulf state. The lawyer explained that PPRA rules would apply to all financial transactions since both the PIA and the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority were federal government entities. He argued that the federal government did not get approval of the parliament before making the impugned deals for the Qatar investments, whereas the PIA has been converted into a public limited company through PIA Conversion Act 2016, passed by the parliament. (“LHC moved against ‘deal with Qatar on PIA control’,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)

FATF to visit Pakistan  for deciding the country to  remove from the grey list
On 27 August, The News International reported that the Financial Action Task Force is set to visit Pakistan in the first week of September to assess rules, regulations, and strengthening of institutional mechanisms in order to decide on removing the country from the grey list. The FATF had placed Pakistan on its grey list in June 2018 and despite making many efforts, Islamabad was not removed from the list. Ironically, Pakistan had to implement two different action plans simultaneously and now the country has fully implemented all action plans. The FATF team will scrutinize arrangements placed by the ministries, relevant departments, regulators, and law enforcement agencies to verify whether or not these systems and procedures were sustainable to combat money laundering and terror financing on a permanent basis. (“FATF team to visit Pakistan next month,” The News International, 27 August 2022)

ECONOMY
PTI’s provincial government blamed to halt IMG deal progress
On 26 August, the coalition government took exception to PTI’s “attempts to jeopardise the IMF loan programme” just days ahead of the Fund’s board meeting. Citing non-payment of arrears of around PKR 100 billion by the federal government, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government had refused to implement the IMF loan precondition for the surplus budget. Provincial Finance Minister Taimur Saleem Jhagra countered the blame saying, “Let me remind you of the criticality of the issues. Perhaps most importantly, to resolve the budget allocations for ex-FATA, which, in the absence of an updated NFC Award, are decided at the discretion of the federal government. The existing funds for ex-FATA are also insufficient to meet the monthly salary expenditure of the employees.” (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Govt slams PTI for ‘jeopardising IMF deal’,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)
 
SPI continues on weekly trend, breaks all-time record again
On 26 August, a report issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics indicated that the prices of 23 essential commodities have increased in just one week ending on 25 August. During the last one week, the weekly inflation rate in the country increased by 1.83 per cent to reach a record high level of 44.58 per cent. Inflation measured by the Sensitive Price Index has reached the highest level in the history of the country due to an increase in the prices of petroleum products and disruption in the supply of commodities due to floods and heavy rains. (“Inflation breaks all records, climbs to 44.58%,” The Express Tribune, 27 August 2022)

Flood-hit farmers to get higher agriculture credit  
 On 26 August, The State Bank of Pakistan set a little higher Rs1, 800 billion agriculture credit target for 2022-23 in the backdrop of massive damages to agriculture by unprecedented floods caused by historic monsoon rains. The current year is under the immense pressure of devastating flash floods across the country. No official data is available about the loss of crops, livestock, and other related valuables in the agriculture sector, a brokerage house initially estimated a total loss of Rs900billion. The SBP has assigned an annual agriculture credit disbursement target of Rs1.8 trillion to the financial institutions for the current fiscal year to cater to the agriculture credit demand. (“Shahid Iqbal, “SBP sets higher Rs1.8tr agri credit target to help flood-hit farmers,” Dawn, 27 August 2022)

Editorial, Emergency
The News International, 27 August 2022
Those who have been affected don’t just deserve media headlines but a concerted national effort for their relief and rehabilitation process. It will take years to rebuild their lives, and that too after the government and the public come together. Things have already been delayed far too long. The only plan to rescue our own is to act now; there can be no plan B here.

Dr Shuja Ahmed Mahesar, Climate change and food security paradigms in Pakistan
The Express Tribune, 27 August 2022
Pakistan as a food importer from a variety of countries, including Ukraine, must take efforts for ensuring domestic production which has already been wrecked by heavy rain. Thus, government must preempt the flooding and start 3-R activities of rescue, relief and rehabilitation for flood victims.

Editorial, Ravaged agri lands
The Express Tribune, 27 August 2022
Climate change is a global phenomenon, a collective failure, and must be treated or solved as such. Apart from the need to bring international agricultural and conservation experts on board to tackle these issues, Pakistan must ferociously advocate for fighting climate change at international level. Officials must put politics aside and do what is necessary by realising that the people and the country are at grave risk.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Unceasing political vendetta
Dawn, 27 August 2022
The PPP and PML-N had learnt their lessons and agreed on the rules of coexistence in 2006 after both parties heavily suffered through the loss of the top PPP leadership, martial law, exile, the coup against the PML-N government etc. The PTI doesn’t have to learn the hard way; it can scrutinise the past sufferings of the PPP and PML-N and refrain from making the same mistakes.

Aijaz A. Nizamani, RDA and agri investment
Dawn, 27 August 2022
If overseas Pakistanis are given formal incentives to invest in agriculture back home — in their own villages at the beginning, and in the broader agriculture sector later — they will find new opportunities to grow their wealth.

Editorial, Looming shortages
Dawn, 27 August 2022
Farming communities form the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and their suffering will directly affect the entire country if it is not alleviated quickly. There needs to be a coordinated effort to rebuild and restore as soon as the rains subside and the floodwaters recede.

Editorial, Child brides
Dawn, 27 August 2022
The outdated traditions, which consider girls as a burden to be shed by having them marry early, keep alive a practice that is linked to a number of societal and health-related issues… It is time the authorities took stock of this sinister practice that is detrimental to the well-being of millions of young girls across the country.

Mohsin Saleem Ullah, Do we need a toothless NAB?
The Express Tribune, 27 August 2022
In absence of an impartial and effective accountability bureau, it’s unachievable to strengthen the democratic norms, clamp down on corruption practices, and foster Pakistan’s dwindling economy. What is important is to understand that accountability is a key to the success of a country.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Pakistan declares ‘national emergency’ amid rain-induced floods
On 25 August, the government declared a ‘national emergency’ amid the rain-induced floods which killed 937 people and left at least 30 million without shelter, terming the monsoon rains a “climate-inducted humanitarian crisis of epic proportions.” Further, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Sindh reported the highest number of deaths as 306 people lost their lives due to floods and rain-related incidents while Balochistan reported 234 deaths whereas Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab recorded 185 and 165 deaths, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minster Office (PMO) announced that the international organisations and financial institutions announced an immediate assistance of more than USD 500 million to mitigate the damages caused by the monsoon rains.

Further, UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) allocated USD three million to UN agencies and partners in Pakistan to respond to floods. Additionally, the All-Pakistan Chinese Enterprises’ Association announcing a donation of PKR 15 million to the PM’s Flood Relief Fund. (Zaki Abbas, “Pakistan declares emergency in the face of calamitous floods,” Dawn, 26 August 2022; Syed Irfan Raza, “Donors pledge $500m for flood relief efforts,” Dawn, 26 August 2022; Amin Ahmed, “UN announces $3m to its agencies, partners,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

Imran Khan granted interim pre-arrest bail in two cases
On 24 August, Imran Khan an Anti-Terrorism Court (ACT) in Islamabad granted Imran Khan an interim pre-arrest bail in two cases registered against him in connection with a PTI rally held on 20 August. The ATC judge granted Imran Khan an interim bail till 1 September against a surety of PKR 100,000. Further, an additional sessions judge granted him interim bail until 7 September in the case pertaining to the alleged violation of Section 144 against a surety of PKR 5,000. Previously, Imran Khan was booked in a terrorism case for his remarks about a female judge and violation Section 144 (ban on public gatherings exceeding four persons) in Islamabad on the day of the rally. (Tahir Naseer, “Former PM Imran granted interim bails in terrorism, Section 144 cases,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: PPP withdraws from NA-118 in PML-N’s favour
On 25 August, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza declared his party’s support for PML-N’s candidate in NA-118, Dr Shizra Mansab Ali, Murtaza said that PPP is sharing the burden of difficult decisions taken by the PML-N government in these difficult times. The decision to withdraw a candidate from NA-118 was taken despite stiff opposition from its local leaders that wanted the party to contest elections and keep its voter base intact. Asked whether the withdrawal of candidature is benefiting the PTI, he said that it is not so because their voters are with them. (“PPP withdraws from NA-118 in PML-N’s favour,” The Express Tribune, 26 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Emergence of “grey market” dries up foreign currency in open market
On 25 August, PKR fell on the fourth consecutive day and closed at PKR 219.14 per USD. The open market quoted the dollar at about PKR 10 higher than the interbank market, currency dealers said, as all foreign currencies were in short supply, including the dollar, Saudi riyal and UAE dirham. Bankers pointed out that when the dollar reached a peak of PKR 239.5 in the interbank market last month, banks were charging in the range of PKR 245 to PKR 248. Bankers also said they were facing pressure to artificially maintain the dollar rate on the lower side. Zafar Paracha, general secretary of the Exchange Companies Association of Pakistan (ECAP) said, “We were selling $25 to $30 million a day in the banks just a couple of weeks ago, but it has now fallen to $3 to $4 million.” He blamed “a strong grey market” which was offering a better price and smuggling to Afghanistan as in Kabul, the dollar is selling for an equivalent of about PKR 240, attracting smugglers to make a quick buck. The SBP’s foreign exchange reserves dropped USD 87 million to USD 7.809 billion during the week ended on 19 August, central bank data showed on Thursday. Reserves of commercial banks now stand at USD 5.711 billion, making the country’s total reserves at USD 13.521 billion. (Shahid Iqbal, “Foreign currencies dry up, rupee continues to fall,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

Improving demand shows oil prices edging up
On 26 August, oil rose as much as the signs of improving fuel demand, although further gains were capped as the market awaited clues from the US Federal Reserve chairman on the outlook for rate hikes. Despite uncertainty over the pace of rate hikes in the United States to tackle soaring inflation, worries about oil demand destruction eased this week, putting the benchmark oil contracts on track for gains of around 3pc for the week. (“Oil prices edge up on signs of improving demand,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Qatar to follow a policy of no-cash like Saudi Arabia; UAE offers investment
On 25 August, following the conclusion of the three-day visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Qatar, a government official told Dawn that Qatar has not offered the immediate provision of USD 2 billion in cash to Pakistan but renewed its interest in buying the two LNG-fired power plants that Islamabad was initially reluctant to sell without a competitive bidding process. A member of the PM’s delegation said that Qatar again showed its interest in investing in LNG-fired Haveli Bahadur Shah and Baloki power plants. Finance Minister Miftah Ismail said: “After the $3 billion investment commitment by Qatar, there is no funding gap, hence, no immediate requirement for the $2 billion cash.” The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has asked Pakistan to increase the gross official foreign exchange reserves to USD 16.2 billion by June next year, pointing out a hole of USD 4.5 billion that has to be filled by securing commitments from the bilateral creditors. The king of Saudi Arabia on 25 August also directed to make a USD 1 billion investment in Pakistan after a similar announcement was made by the UAE a few days ago. (Shahbaz Rana, “Qatar did not offer $2b in cash,” The Express Tribune, 26 August 2022)

Saudi Arabia announces USD one billion investment in Pakistan
On 25 August, Saudi Press News Agency reported that King Salman bin Abdulaziz has directed the Saudi government to invest USD one billion in Pakistan to confirm Saudi Arabia's "support of the Pakistani economy and the Pakistani people." FM Bilawal via Twitter welcomed the investment commitment. He also said he had briefed Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister on the flood situation in Pakistan. (“Saudi king directs govt to invest $1bn in Pakistan: report,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

ON JUDICIARY
LHC decision against the sale of evacuee land to be upheld by the Supreme Court
On 25 August, the Supreme Court ruled that a federal minister did not enjoy any authority under the laws governing the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) to approve sale of evacuee land either in his direction or in relaxation of any provision of the law. Two-judges, a two-judge Supreme Court bench had rejected a plea challenging the order of LHC that declared illegal sale of commercial property belonging to the ETPB in Raja  Bazaar worth billions of rupees to a real estate investor. The Bench released judgment regarding the welding of this decision made by LHC. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC upholds LHC decision the  against the sale of evacuee lad,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

ON MILITARY
Army speaks of taking a tougher approach against TTP
On 25 August, COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa while speaking at the 250th Corps Commanders Conference said, “Directed formations to maintain operational readiness and efforts to counter, terrorism particularly in KP & Balochistan must continue.” The ISPR press release at the conference did not give any details about the emphasis on counter-terrorism operations. Gen Bajwa’s assertion about the continuation of the kinetic operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces comes in the backdrop of growing public resentment about the return of TTP fighters. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Army top brass hints at tougher approach against TP,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

ON SPORTS
Departmental sports to be revived, says PM Sharif
On 25 August, PM Shehbaz Sharif speaking at a cash prize distribution ceremony for nine athletes announced the resumption of departmental sports, bringing to an end the prevailing uncertainty amongst the sports community. A ban on departmental sports was imposed during Imran Khan’s tenure as the PM. The decision taken almost three years back had left hundreds of sportsmen jobless and resulted in the closing down of sports sections of major departments. The gold medal winners at the Commonwealth Games, Arshad Nadeem, and Nooh Butt, were given PKR five million each with Inam Butt and Zaman Anwar receiving PKR two million each for silver medals. All five athletes received Rs1 million each for winning bronze. (Abdul Mohi Shah, “PM announces resumption of departmental sports,” Dawn, 26 August 2022)

Asfand Yar Warraich, Belling the cat
Dawn, 26 August 2022
Pakistan is fast approaching a dangerous convergence of destabilising factors: a youth bulge with very little prospects, a festering crisis of identity, accelerating religious fanaticism and climate change…Trust in the system is shattering, aided by a post-truth world where disinformation runs rampant and opinions are formed on WhatsApp forwards. What will ultimately be birthed into this void is an ideological monstrosity that no force in this country will be able to control.

Hamzah Khan, More the merrier?
Dawn, 26 August 2022
Internal population redistribution such as this will not only reduce the burden on our sprawling megacities, but also lead to cultural diversification and acceptance in mono-cultural regions. Considering such a transformation has the potential to completely alter the sociopolitical map of the country, the question remains, which leaders would be willing to implement it?

Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Man-made catastrophes
Dawn, 26 August 2022
Pakistan is in the midst of a man-made disaster. Our flawed development model has made our lives insecure in both the urban and rural areas. This pattern of development has robbed us of the monsoons — our season of romance, raindrops, walking in the rain, and singing songs.

Editorial, Politicking amid floods
The Express Tribune, 26 August 2022
The health and safety of millions of Pakistanis should take precedence over partisan politics. But no party appears interested in a ceasefire, even a unilateral one. It appears not one leader recognises that good rulers are also good at serving the public. Where people were hoping that historic devastation would bring historic unity in response, pettiness is the only thing that has been on display.

Editorial, Structural problems
Dawn, 26 August 2022
That may be a — temporary — relief, but it has been achieved with borrowed money. The tough part is to address the long-standing structural issues plaguing the economy by boosting domestic productivity and exports, wooing private FDI to reduce debt, tackling balance-of-payment troubles and putting the economy on a sustainable, and faster growth path.

Editorial, Indian missile incident
Dawn, 26 August 2022
Suffice it to say, New Delhi needs to ensure that such blunders are not repeated while our military must remain alert so that the country is protected from all external threats. In a combustible regional atmosphere, and with such powerful weapons involved, there simply can be no room for error, especially when mistakes such as this one have the potential to spark conflict.

Editorial, Mystery grenades
Dawn, 26 August 2022
Clearly, the Sindh police force needs to stop taking the storage of dangerous materials so lightly. It also needs to be better trained and better equipped so that such tragedies can be avoided in the future.

Raoof Hasan, On the brink : The Friday Column
The News International, 26 August 2022
Khan is a larger-than-life persona. He is a courageous leader bearing impeccable qualities who is committed to asserting Pakistan’s freedom. His vast support base stretches to all parts of the country and his stature is acknowledged internationally. The challenge is to bring Pakistan back from the brink. Only a person with legitimate people’s mandate can do it. That person is Imran Khan. It is onward to early, free and fair elections.

Editorial, Debt for debt
The News International, 26 August 2022
The EFF provides a short-term answer to our external debt problems, but in the medium-to-long term, our balance of payments will remain stressed without serious structural reforms. Pressures on the foreign currency reserves and on the exchange rate of rupee will resurface very sharply if efforts are not made to bridge the trade gap. The government has to increase the tax-to-GDP ratio. A farm tax that the high and mighty have long resisted should be introduced forthwith.

Editorial, Vicious cycle
The News International, 26 August 2022
Despite the PTI’s past and its politics, it is unfortunate that the coalition government, which had made many a speech against human rights violations and politically-motivated cases in the recent past, is resorting to tactics we have seen too many times before.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Imran Khan blames ‘neutrals’ for the ongoing crackdown on the PTI
On 21 August, Imran Khan while addressing a political gathering at Rawalpindi’s Liaquat Bagh alleged that the ‘neutrals’ in reference to the military establishment, were responsible for the ongoing crackdown on the PTI. He said, “On May 25, when the police used violence against us, I was told by insiders that the police were ordered from above, which means that neutrals pressurised them to give PTI workers a thrashing,” Mr Khan said and questioned whether the “neutrals were really neutral.” Further, on the ECP he claimed, “The chief election commission[er] is giving every decision against us … I got information from the inside that he [the CEC] was not doing anything on his own but there was pressure from above.”

Further, he claimed that the PTI was the “biggest party at the federal level” and any attempts to break the party would hurt the country, adding, “Political parties are the glue that keeps the country together.”

Following this, Imran Khan was booked under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (punishment for acts of terrorism) regarding his comments at his Islamabad rally. Later on, 22 August, the PTI issued a warning stating that Imran Khan would be a “red line”, as reports of Imran Khan’s imminent arrest made the rounds. Meanwhile, Imran Khan moved the Islamabad High Court seeking pre-arrest bail.

The PTI has also decided approach the court against the bad imposed by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) on Imran Khan’s live telecast. (Tahir Naseer, “Pakistan ‘over-financed’: SBP acting governor,” Dawn, 22 August 2022; “Imran moves IHC for pre-arrest bail in terrorism case,” Dawn, 22 August 2022; Aamir Yasin, “PTI chief alleges ‘neutrals’ behind crackdown on party,” Dawn, 22 August 2022; “PTI warns Imran Khan a ‘red line’ as reports of warrants for his arrest make rounds,” Dawn, 22 August 2022; Ikram Junaidi, “PTI to challenge ban on live telecast of Imran’s speeches,” Dawn, 22 August 2022; “Imran fires ‘warning shots’ at police and judiciary,” Dawn, 22 August 2022)

PTI’s Woman leader shot dead
On 20 August, PTI local woman leader Nargis Mengal was shot dead by unknown armed men in the capital. Armed men on a motorcycle opened fire at Nargis Mengal near Shaheen Bungalows, killing her on the spot. Hospital officials said that she had several bullet injuries which caused her instant death. (Saleem Shahid, “PTI’s woman leader Nargis Mengal shot dead,” Dawn, 22 August 2022)

ON CPEC
Pakistan to review proposal to recieve upfront cost for CPEC projects
On 21 August, Pakistan is reviewing a proposal to receive upfront 20 per cent of the total cost of five China- CPEC projects as deposits in the central bank in a bid to get breathing space amid declining foreign exchange reserves. As per the proposal, Pakistan can receive at least USD 1.4 billion in its central bank out of the total cost of USD seven billion. In return, these five projects that are facing years of delay will be put on the fast track for implementation. According to the proposal, Chinese companies will not be allowed to take back these funds in any shape, including for opening Letters of Credit. (Shahbaz Rana, “Pakistan mulls taking upfront cost,” The Express Tribune, 22 August 2022)

ON GILGIT BALTISTAN
Revenue authority to be set up through legislation
 On 20 August, Assembly passed legislation to set up a revenue authority. The bill titled “Gilgit-Baltistan Revenue Authority Bill 2022” was tabled by Javed Ali Manwa and passed with a majority, with four opposition members also voting in favour of the bill. (Jamil Nagri, “Bill passed to set up GB revenue authority,” Dawn, 21 August 2022)

ECONOMY
PTI on a comfortable lead in Karachi by-election
On 21 August, by-election on NA-245 was conducted. According to unofficial results, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) won the by-election of Karachi’s NA-245 and retained its mandate from the constituency in a major boost to the party a week before the local bodies’ elections in the city giving setback to MQM and TLP. PTI Sindh chapter president Ali Zaidi tweeted: “The result of NA-245 proves that the people of Pakistan are behind Imran Khan. If the imported government makes any foolish move to arrest Imran Khan, I fear the people of Pakistan would block the whole country.” (Imran Ayub, “In major boost, PTI wins Karachi by-election,” Dawn, 22 August 2022)

IMF board members get staff reports
On 21 August, Pakistan moved closer to clinching a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as all 24 members of the Fund’s executive board have received copies of a staff report required to complete the process. The board is meeting on 29 August to consider the report on the completion of seventh and eighth reviews of USD 6 billion loan package signed in 2019. The board will also consider to extend the facility till June 2023. A diplomatic source on the question of outcome of current agreement told Dawn: “But the present government has taken the sting out of anti-corruption tools, which may encourage corruption. The IMF would prefer to have an arrangement that could curb corruption but was not restrictive.” (Anwar Iqbal, “IMF board members get staff reports,” Dawn, 22 August 2022)
 
EXTERNAL
Jordanian princess in Pakistan to review nutrition programme
On 21 August, Princess Sarah Zeid of Jordan arrived in Karachi on a week-long visit to Pakistan in her role as a Special Adviser on Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition of the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP). She will visit several nutrition projects to see how the government was addressing malnutrition and particularly stunting that affects 12 million or up to two-thirds of children in Pakistan. She will also visit the Benazir Income Support Programme to review the progress of Benazir Nashonuma Programme. (Amin Ahmed, “Jordanian princess arrives to review nutrition programme,” Dawn, 22 August 2022)

Maleeha Lodhi, Economic cost of uncertainty
Dawn, 22 August 2022
The irony is that all major political parties actually agree on the fundamental elements of economic policy…Despite this convergence, their efforts to seek political mileage drives them in the opposite direction, which puts the accent on their divergences at the cost of the country’s economic stability.

Syed Kaleem Imam, Apolitical policing
Dawn, 22 August 2022
After 75 years of experimentation, it should be clear by now that interference in the police’s work has only imperilled our lives and honour, denied citizens of their right to protection, as well as brought us to disrepute in the international community. The people of our country deserve better.

Huma Yusuf, Beyond legislation
Dawn, 22 August 2022
Pakistan has a less precious relationship with its reputation, and feels no threat from the media or civil society. And its sociopolitical dynamics, as they veer to extremes, are likely to enable rather than condemn the future use of torture. Sadly, irrespective of what laws end up in the books, torture is likely to persist as a national shame until we reweave our national fabric.

Editorial, Climate catastrophe
Dawn, 22 August 2022
Climate change is no longer an abstract doomsayer’s warning: the climate has changed, and it has caught us completely unprepared…The changing climate requires a bottom-up approach to adaptation if we want to survive. That should be the primary focus once the reconstruction starts.

Editorial, Agricultural reform
Dawn, 22 August 2022
If this sector is to be turned around and to contribute to economic growth, the government will have to radically overhaul its agricultural policies, keeping smallholder farmers at the centre. There is no shortcut to food security and economic prosperity.

Editorial, Suicides in Chitral
Dawn, 22 August 2022
It is unfortunate that the incidence and causes of suicide remain under-researched in Pakistan… he authorities should take valuable lessons from the Chitral study to reorient their social and economic development priorities. True development stems from a change in behaviour, and not merely from an increase in the number of schools, colleges and jobs.

Editorial, Belligerent politics
The News International, 22 August 2022
The PDM government was expected to be different, but has gone right back to short-term, petty politics. Ideally, the constitution and the law should take their course – without resorting to colonial-era tools of suppression like threats of treason or sedition. Unfortunately, idealism has little space in today’s politics in Pakistan.

Nadeem Iqbal, Cost of living
The News International, 22 August 2022
The need is to develop a price management structure with active consumer groups’ engagement. The decisions should be based on district-level statistics of demand and supply of essential commodities and future price projections. Otherwise, even though inflation may subside because of some macroeconomics factors, consumers remain vulnerable to commercial exploitation in violation of constitutional principles of policy.

Saad Ur Rehman Khan, A new kind of politics
The News International, 22 August 2022
Khan’s sway over the people appears to be winning them over, and perhaps this is why there is so much focus on the PTI’s ‘record-breaking rallies’ over social media. Khan’s stint at the Throne may have been short-lived, but his tactics to influence the people remain very much relevant to what resonates with the majority of people in Pakistan.

Editorial, Adhere to reason
The News International, 22 August 2022
It goes without saying that in an era of social media empowerment, official bans on electronic media have lost their veracity. Similarly, clamping down on political mobilisation, freedom of speech and association stand ultra vires to the Constitution, and no democratic government can go ahead with it…Politics of point-scoring are detrimental to national interests.

Editorial, The deadly inflation
The News International, 22 August 2022
The SBP governor’s formal appointment after a hiatus of four months, likewise, should come to bail out the ad hoc decision-making process. The incumbent is the first to be appointed on the heels of a constitutional amendment empowering the central bank, and it is high time for him to manage the intricacies of exchange and interest rates, as well as the scourge of inflation.

In Brief
ECONOMY
Pakistan is ‘over-financed,’ says SBP acting governor
On 19 August, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Acting Governor Murtaza Syed during a meeting with top management of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) said that Pakistan is “over-financed,” thanks to the recently secured USD four billion of additional financing commitments from friendly countries. Further, he stated that the International Monetary Fund programme has guaranteed that the country’s financing needs will be fully met over the next 12 months, claiming, “This will provide an additional boost to Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves in 2022-23.” (“Pakistan ‘over-financed’: SBP acting governor,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

Govt revises last fiscal year’s budget deficit after statistical discrepancy surfaces in federal accounts
On 19 August, the Ministry of Finance released the fiscal operations summary in which the federal budget deficit rose to Rs5.61 trillion which is 8.4 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in fiscal year 2021-22 that ended on 30 June, against a target of just under Rs4.4 trillion making. The deficit is Rs1.9 trillion or 51 per cent higher than the figures in the fiscal year 2020-21 – the third year of the PTI government.  This comes after nearly Rs200 billion statistical discrepancy surfaced in the accounts. (Shahbaz Rana, “Rs198b discrepancy surfaces in federal accounts,” The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022)

Inflation reels weekly increase in SPI, breaks all-time records
On 19 August, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) published it weekly Sensitive Price Index (SPI), a stock of 51 essential items from 50 markets in 17 cities across Pakistan. With the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) showing an increase of 3.35 per cent in the week that ended on August 18, the year-on-year increase went up to 42.31 per cent. The previous highest-ever yearly increase was recorded in the week ending on August 5 at 38.63 per cent. During the last week, the price of tomatoes went up by 20.28 per cent, chicken 7.57 per cent, onions 2.30per cent, powdered milk 2.03 per cent, eggs 1.63 per cent, pulse moong 1.42 per cent and potatoes 1.07per cent. As for non-food items, electricity for the first quarter went up by 6.83 per cent, petrol 2.96 per cent, and cigarettes 1.69 per cent.

As for a year-on-year comparison, The prices of pulse masoor increased by 111.02 per cent, diesel 108.77 per cent, petrol 94.53 per cent, onions 94.43 per cent, cooking oil (five litres) 72.96 per cent, mustard oil 71.08 per cent, chicken 69.04 per cent, vegetable ghee (one kilo) 68.56 per cent, vegetable ghee (2.5 kilos) 67.05 per cent, electricity for Q1 63.03 per cent, washing soap 61.92 per cent, pulse gram 58.93 per cent, gents sponge chappal 52.21 per cent, pulse mash 51.51 per cent  and garlic 36.59 per cent. Further, the prices of chili powder decreased by 43.42 per cent, sugar 16.55 per cent, and jaggery 1.96 per cent on a year-on-year basis. (Jawad Zulfiqar, “Inflation breaks record as SPI exceeds 42%,” The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022)

National Priority Sectors Export Strategy (2023-2027), a five-year policy launched to achieve growth in exports
On 19 August, as part of the Strategic Trade Policy Framework 2020-25, Ministry of Commerce unveiled NPSES, with a focus on 10 priority sectors, including engineering goods, leather, processed food and beverages, fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, pharmaceuticals, software development and services, business process outsourcing, logistics and institutional coordination. The International Trade Centre (ITC) is working with the government of Pakistan with financial support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the UK government, through the Revenue Mobilisation, Investment and Trade Programme (ReMIT) to support the development of the NPSES. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Export strategy for 10 priority sectors unveiled,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

Government approves major changes to LNG policy
On 19 August, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on removed replaced, Article 6.2(a) of the LNG Policy, 2011 with amendments that provide Third-Party-Access (TPA) to new LNG terminals and associated facilities developed by the private sector without any government guarantees or off-take commitments on an optional basis on negotiated tariff with first right of use for terminal developers, operators, and their associated undertakings. The change is to facilitate Qatar’s investment in Pakistan’s LNG supply chain including terminals and LNG supplies. In doing so, it also allowed all LNG terminals, including those already operational, to utilise their spare capacity that is not contracted by the government. As a result, existing gas pipeline capacity for new terminals may be limited. The TPA for the un-used capacity of LNG terminals contracted by public sector entities will be mandatory and regulated by Ogra. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt okays major changes to LNG policy,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two terrorists killed in Mir Ali area of North Waziristan
On 20 August, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that two terrorist including a commander were killed in an intelligence-based operation in the Mir Ali area of North Waziristan. According to the ISPR, these terrorists were involved in "terrorist activities against security forces, preparation of IEDs and killing of innocent citizens." (“Two terrorists, including commander, killed in Waziristan IBO,” The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Protest against JUI-F against lawlessness
On 19 August, a large number of people attended the protest sit-in arranged by JUI-F in the Bajaur tribal district to urge the authorities to fulfil their responsibility of providing protection to the local residents and maintaining peace. The “peace sit-in” meant to make an urgent appeal for improving the law and order situation by ending the wave of violence against the activists of JUI-F and other parties was started after Friday prayers. They termed such gatherings necessary for bringing improvement in law and order in the district. According to them, the law and order situation had deteriorated over the past several months in the region. (“JUI-F starts protest sit-in against lawlessness in Bajaur,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

Balochistan: Cash assistance for flood-hit people launched
On 19 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched Rs37.2 billion flood relief cash programme to disburse Rs50,000 cash assistance in two install­ments among 1.5 million affected families each in the country, particularly in Balochistan where hundreds died and infrastructure was damaged the most by floods amid heavy monsoon rains. Fund are being given through the Benazir Income Support Programme in collabo­ration with the National Disaster Manage­ment Authority and other allied departments. He said that the disbursement of cash would be completed within three days as assured by the NDMA chairman to help rain-hit people afford their food and other immediate needs. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Rs37.2bn cash assistance for flood-hit people launched,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

Punjab: Police raid at PML- N MNA’s residence
On 20 August, Dawn reported The Punjab police raided the residences of at least a dozen PML-N MPAs in several cities of Punjab after warrants were issued for their arrest for their alleged involvement in the violence witnessed in the Punjab Assembly during the chief minister’s election on16  April. The warrants were issued after Qilla Gujjar Singh police approached a local court in Lahore seeking the arrest of the lawmakers for their failure to join the investigation, despite the issuance of several summonses. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, Zulqernain Tahir, “N lawmakers evade Punjab police action,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan urges the US release Afghan’s frozen funds
On 19 August, Foreign Office spokesman Asim Iftikhar once again urged the United States again to unfreeze Afghan funds held in New York. He said that these funds should be released urgently and “in a manner that would make it easier for the interim authorities to utilise this money.” Further, he reiterated that Pakistan too wants that the release “shouldn’t be done without strings attached.” (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Pakistan again urges US to unfreeze Afghan assets,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
Standing Committee observes loopholes in the process for appointment of judges to the Supreme Court
On 19 August, the Standing Committee on Law and Justice of Senate observed loopholes in the process for appointment of judges in the Supreme Court. The committee emphasised on the need for empowering the parliamentary committee for such appointments. The committee’s chairman, Barrister Ali Zafar claimed that the two most important things were transparency and security in the process of appointment and removal of judges. (Malik Asad, “Parliament panel sees loopholes in judges’ appointment process,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

CJP wonders whether parliament can make self-serving laws
On 19 August, Umar Ata Bandial expressed whether the parliament could be expected to make “self-serving legislation” when it’s in a “transitory period and the elections have to be held”. He observed during the hearing of a challenge by the PTI council in NAO that “We are the guardians of the Constitution and it is not a joyful enterprise for the courts to do legislation instead or show over activism. But we have to protect the Constitution, the constitutional machinery and the rule of law,” (Nasir Iqbal, “Can parliament make ‘self-serving’ laws, wonders CJP,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

INTERNAL
ECP reveals revealed that four million voters are dead
On 29 August, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) informed the Senate Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs that a door-to-door verification of voters in the country in preparation for the upcoming by-polls and the general election 2023 has revealed that four million votes are no longer alive. The ECP secretary said, “More measures are also being taken to verify voters in coordination with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and improve the Results Transmission System (RTS) used in the elections.” (“Verification reveals 4m voters dead, Senate panel told,” The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022)

MQM warns of reviewing its decision on Sindh LG polls participation
On 19 August, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) in warned that it would review its decision to participate in the upcoming 28 August local government elections in Karachi and Hyderabad in protests over “unjustified delimitation, fake voters’ list and less count of population in the National Census 2017.” MQM-P convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said, “I am here to ask the president, prime minister and those who are guardians of law and Constitution to suggest to us where we should go for justice.” (Imran Ayub, “MQM warns of reviewing decision to participate in Sindh LG polls,” Dawn, 20 August 2022)

Editorial, The CPEC riddle
The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022
Now with the threads of CPEC closely knitted with the Planning Division, it has come as a challenge. The staggering Chinese investment that Pakistan was supposed to realise in its infrastructure, energy and industrial projects is yet to make an impact. Improving the situation obviously requires some innovative startups.

Raashid Wali Janjua, The power of lies
The Express Tribune, 20 August 2022
Populist leaders who are a step short of fascism find the social media driven political environment most propitious for the dissemination of their adamantine certainties and demagoguery. It no longer matters what they are saying is truth or not; what really matters is what is believed.

Editoral, Tough tasks ahead
The News International, 20 August 2022
Governor Ahmed is taking the reins of the central bank at a time when the government is preparing to institute fresh revenue measures by imposing new taxes…The bottom line is that there is no autopilot for the economy. Minister Ismail and Governor Ahmed will do well to work in close coordination to maintain a semblance of normalcy at a time when nothing is normal either domestically or globally.

Editorial, Truth must out
The News International, 20 August 2022
It is in this spirit that any and all allegations must be properly investigated and the truth must come out. Was the PTI’s politics all about vengeance when it was in power? Yes. Was Shahbaz Gill an enthusiastic supporter of witch-hunts and abuse thrown at the PTI’s opposition? Yes. Does that justify custodial torture? No. And that’s where the debate must end.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, ECP: after the verdict
Dawn, 20 August 2022
The greatest loophole in political finance monitoring is that the ECP generally does not undertake any scrutiny of the statements of accounts submitted by political parties and legislators. It simply publishes the statements as received unless a complaint is received, like it was about PTI accounts in 2014. The ECP should enhance the capacity of its political finance wing both in terms of the numbers and expertise.

Editorial, Changing tune
Dawn, 20 August 2022
Mr Gill remained in the headlines for the tug of war over his custody as well as concerns over his physical well-being…The Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention and Punishment) Bill, 2022, just landed in the Senate after passage from the National Assembly. It would be a great shame for this government if it emerges that it is not serious about putting an end to inhumane practices under its watch.

Editorial, Lifting import curbs
Dawn, 20 August 2022
Instead of increasing the tax base to raise the abysmally low tax-to-GDP ratio of 9.2pc, it has chosen to further milk existing taxpayers. No matter how tough times are, the present crisis can be an opportunity to put our house in order by taxing the sacred cows of our economy.

In Brief
EXTERNAL
COAS meet with US CENTCOM chief
On 18 August, COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) General Michael E Kurilla at the Pakistan Army General Headquarters (GHQ). According to the ISPR the Centcom commander had a one-on-one meeting with the army chief during which "matters of mutual interest, regional security situation, and stability, defence and security cooperation particularly military to military ties were discussed." Following this, a delegation-level meeting was held during which Pakistan Army’s counter-terrorism efforts and contributions toward regional peace and stability were discussed. (“Gen Bajwa, US Centcom discuss regional security situation, stability in meeting at GHQ,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

PM Shehbaz meets with the newly-appointed Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan
On 18 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with newly-appointed Australian High Comm­issioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins. During the meeting, Hawkins expressed desires to resolve to increase and diversify the existing relations between Australia and Pakistan. He also appreciated Pakistan’s role in safe evacuation of their nationals and others from Afghanistan. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Pakistan wants peaceful ties with India: PM Shehbaz,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

INTERNAL
Chinese model to be followed for modern economic development
On 18 August, while addressing CPEC green development, a High-Level Dialogue organized by Sustainable Development Policy Institute Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan would follow the Chinese model of economic development as modern economic development is possible only with the continuation of political stability, social solidarity, and economic policies. He further said that in 2013, the government had started work on nine SEZs under CPEC during the previous regime but could not complete them. “If these SEZs were completed, China’s industrial relocation would have taken place in Pakistan today.” He said Pakistan and China were starting work on several green energy projects which would help in improving the environment, adding that most of the solar and wind energy projects would start a new era of sustainable economic development in the country. (“Pakistan to follow Chinese development model,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2022)

TTP does not intend to fight with any political or religious party
On 18 August, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) issued a statement which alleged that TTP was keen on the success of peace talks with the government of Pakistan and some pro-western groups were frustrated as the situation in Pakistan showed signs of improvement owing to its peace talks with the government. It said that TTP had reiterated its stance on many occasions that it wanted real peace in the country. It added that TTP was neither anti-state nor was it working for anti-Pakistan powers. TTP recently denied its involvement in extortion, amid the resurgence of armed groups in Swat, Dir and other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Awami National Party recently highlighted the issue of extortion and resurgence of militants in the province. (“TTP warns nationalists against levelling allegations,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Preparations for next general polls to get started
On 19 August, The Express Tribune reported that the ECP has directed its officials to prepare the lists of polling staff and stations and also sought the proposed lists of staff from the provincial election commissioners. For the upcoming election polls, the election staff will be trained on modern lines instead of traditional methods,  They will be made aware of the electoral provisions included in the Constitution. In the new delimitation, the number of general seats of the National Assembly has been reduced from 272 in the present assembly to 266. The reduction of six seats came in accordance with the 25th Constitutional Amendment, following the merger of erstwhile Fata with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. (“ECP orders preparations for next general polls,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
LHC dismissed petition for disqualification of PM and ministers
On 18 August, the Lahore High court dismissed as withdrawn a petition filed by PTI seeking the disqualification of Shehbaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Rana Sanaullah Khan. Justice Shahid Waheed asked the counsel of the petitioner under what law the respondents could be disqualified. The counsel sought time to prepare his arguments, but the judge turned down the request of the council, reminding him that he first got the petition fixed in summer vacations and was now seeking time for arguments. The counsel sought permission to withdraw the petition, which the judge allowed and dismissed the petition as withdrawn. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “LHC dismisses petition for ouster of PM Shehbaz, ministers,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

ON CPEC
No investment was made by CPEC Authority, says Iqbal
On 18 August, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Prof Ahsan Iqbal praised China’s continued support for Pakistan, saying Beijing had been supporting infrastructure development since Xi Jinping during his visit to Islamabad in 2014 announced investing USD 46 billion under the CPEC. However, he criticized the CPEC authority saying the entity has not been able to attract any investment ever since its inception in 2019 to ensure uninterrupted progress on its projects and coordination among the departments concerned. He further said, “Not a single dollar has been invested” in the CPEC project after the creation of this authority. (“‘CPEC body brought no investment’,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Government to introduce mini-budget before IMF board meeting
On 18 August, during a press conference Finance Minister Miftah Ismail announced new revenue measures of PKR 50 billion (USD 250 million) and lifted ban on all non-essential, or luxury, imports to meet yet another lateral demand of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He added that tax relief measures for real estate, capital markets, banks and so on had been postponed for now. On the issue of expensive luxury imports he said: “With my limited resources, I will prioritise flour, wheat, cotton and edible oil instead of iPhones and cars. We will remove the bans but impose prohibitive duties in the form of regulatory duties, customs duties and sales tax, so their import does not materialize.” He said the government had also complied with power tariff adjustments and would ensure that all subsidies are funded in the budget, Pakistan has pledged to generate PKR 153 billion (765 million) of primary surplus between revenues and expenditures excluding debt servicing. The finance minister said the government would now promulgate an ordinance over the next few days to charge variable taxes to traders. Mr Ismail said the government had removed sales tax on power subsidy paid out of budget. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Mini-budget to render luxury imports ‘out of reach’,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)
 
Jameel Ahmad appointed as SBP governor
On 18 August, President Dr Arif Alvi has approved the appointment of Jameel Ahmad as the new governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). He will serve a five-year term, the finance ministry said in a statement. The SBP governor is a co-signatory of the Letter of Intent that is a prerequisite for clinching a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). (“Jameel Ahmad appointed as SBP governor,” The Express Tribune, 19 August 2022)
Separately, on 18 August, data shared by SBP indicated that Foreign exchange reserves held by the SBP witnessed an uptick of USD 67 million to USD 7.897 billion during the week ended on Aug 12. Holdings of the banks were USD 5.716 billion while the country’s total reserves were USD 13.613 billion. (“SBP reserves up by $67m,” Dawn, 19 August 2022)

Aqdas Afzal, Democracy and prosperity at 75
Dawn, 19 August 2022
We are also going to require democratic reforms, thereby introducing campaign finance reform, proportional representation and, perhaps, even quadratic voting. And, in the next 75 years, democracy must not remain a mere procedural idea — only confined to elections; rather, democracy must be given the room to become a substantive institution ensuring representation, responsiveness and accountability.

Muhammad Raafay Khan, Religion & politics
Dawn, 19 August 2022
Exclusion of religion from mainstream politics will only lend more legitimacy to the reactionary narratives propagated by certain religiously inspired groups. Allowing faith its rightful place in Pakistan’s political discourse is critical for a progressive, democratic, and cohesive society.

Editorial, Pawn sacrifice
Dawn, 19 August 2022
Military involvement in politics is bound to invite criticism from political quarters. Mr Gill, on the other hand, stands accused of fomenting discord within the military’s ranks, which, if proven in a court of law, is a much more severe offence compared to mere criticism.

Editorial, Frozen conflict
Dawn, 19 August 2022
Former Indian premier Manmohan Singh had once suggested that Siachen be transformed into a “mountain of peace”. It is time the current Indian administration took up Mr Singh’s suggestion, and Pakistan should respond to such overtures. If there is progress in ending this face-off on the roof of the world, forward movement can also be made in the overall peace process.

Syed Mohammad Ali, Pakistan’s human security challenges
The Express Tribune, 19 August 2022
Pakistan will need to allocate more resources for human security even if that comes at the cost of taking these resources away from maintaining conventional military capabilities. Using these newfound resources, a more effective and responsive policing and justice system will need to be put in place.

Shahzad Chaudhry, Seventy-five years on
The Express Tribune, 19 August 2022
History tells us every nation will have its moment when it finds its coherence under a leadership that will guide its destiny. Our best days lie ahead and there is nothing more exciting than to look ahead in a journey this young nation has set on.

Ishrat Husain, Seventy-five years of Pakistan’s economy
The News International, 19 August 2022
Pakistanis consume more than they save – both the government as well as households. They import more than export, have low investment rates in private and public sectors but aspire to grow beyond their means. Unless these recurrent imbalances of fiscal, trade, financial, savings investment gap are bridged the situation would remain unchanged.

Taha Ahmed Khan, Alienating a city
The News International, 19 August 2022
Perhaps the gains will be substantive if the root causes are addressed through serious efforts by institutions all across the board by considering genuine political players as part of the solution, not part of the problem.

In Brief
EXTERNAL
UK and Pakistan sign agreement to return foreign criminals and immigration offenders
On 17 August, UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and Pakistan Interior Secretary Yousaf Naseem Khokhar signed an agreement under which foreign criminals and immigration offenders from the UK can be returned to Pakistan. Patel said, “I’m proud to have signed a new landmark agreement with our Pakistani friends to return foreign criminals and immigration offenders from the UK to Pakistan. This deal shows our #NewPlanForImmigration in action, as we deliver for the British people,” “I make no apology for removing dangerous foreign criminals and immigration offenders who have no right to remain in the UK. The British public have quite rightly had enough of people abusing our laws and gaming the system so we can’t remove them.”  Meanwhile, the Pakistani High Commission said, “The agreement renews and updates, in a bilateral context an earlier agreement between Pakistan and the European Community regarding readmission of persons residing without authorisation concluded in Oct 2009. The bilateral agreement was necessitated by the exit of the UK from the European Union.” (Atika Rehman, “UK inks deal to return ‘criminals’ to Pakistan,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

Immediate aid from the US to Pakistan’s disaster relief
On 17 August, The US announced an additional USD one million disaster aid grant to Pakistan after heavy downpours inundated and damaged various parts of the country. Antony Blinken stated that the US stood by Pakistan in times of distress and offered “support to flood victims and would continue to work together to mitigate future impacts of the climate crisis.” According to the US Embassy, US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome issued a declaration of humanitarian need and in response, the USAID would provide USD 100,000 to the affected populations. (“US to give Pakistan aid for 'immediate disaster relief',” The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022)

ON CPEC
PM Shehbaz agrees in principle to abolish the CPEC authority
On 17 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in principle approves the abolish the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Authority subject to consent by China. Federal Minister for Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal while confirming the development said, “This is in the interest of CPEC that the authority should be dissolved to ensure fast implementation of its projects.” This decision was made with the objective of fast-track the implementation of the CPEC projects and the planning and development ministry argument that the authority has remained controversial since its inception. Previously, on 16 August, Ahsan Iqbal reviewed the progress of CPEC projects and preparation for the next Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting. (Shahbaz Rana, “PM gives nod to abolish CPEC Authority,” The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022)

INTERNAL
ECP to take up disqualification case against Imran Khan in Toshkhana case
On 18 August, A five-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikander Sultan Raja will hear the reference in the Toshakhana case. Article 63 of the Constitution disqualifies an elected or chosen as a member of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) unless […] he is sagacious, righteous and non-profligate, honest and ameen, there being no declaration to the contrary by a court of law. Former prime minister Nawa Sharif was disqualified under the same provision. (Saqib Virk, “Hearing on Imran’s disqualification reference today,” The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: PM assures relief to flood-hit people as death toll rises
On 17 August, Shehbaz Sharif expressed serious concern about the devastation caused by the recent floods across Pakistan, vowing that the provision of humanitarian relief to the affected people was a high priority of his government. The torrential rain and flash floods ravaged many parts of Balochistan and the government called upon the Centre to provide a special package of Rs60 billion for the repair of infrastructure and rehabilitation of flood-hit families. Officials put the death toll across the province at 205 after floodwaters swept away five people near the Saranan area of the Pishin district and no rail and road link between Quetta and the rest of the country despite all-out efforts for the past several days. (Saleem Shahid, Syed Irfan Raza, “Death toll in Balochistan rises to 205,”; “Relief to flood-hit people will be provided on priority: PM,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Militants will not be allowed to disturb peace, says Swat Jirga
 On 17 August, the leaders of different political parties addressing a conference organized by the Swat Quami Jirga said that they will not allow militants to disturb the peace. The local leaders of all political parties except PTI besides elders, traders, transporters, lawyers, and youth activists attended the conference. They condemned FIRs lodged by police against the peaceful protest recently and also condemned the proposed route of the second phase of the Swat Expressway and termed it the economic murder of the people of Swat as it disturbs the environment. (“Militants won’t be allowed to disturb peace: Swat jirga,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

Sindh: The second phase of LG polls is to be started as ordered by the Supreme Court
On 17 August, The Supreme court after three days of continuous hearing on a set of petitions ordered the ECP to go ahead with the second phase of local government elections in Sindh. Umar Ata Bandial said the process to hold the local government elections cannot be stopped at this stage. the bench, consisting of the CJP, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, and Justice Ayesha Malik, had taken up a set of petitions filed by the MQM, PTI, and others against the Sindh Local Government Act (SLGA) as well as seeking postponement of the second phase of local government elections in Sindh, slated for Aug 28. The advocate general drew the court’s attention to the guidelines suggested by the Sindh High Court through a 2016 judgment in a similar case for carrying out the delimitation process for local government elections. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC tells ECP to go ahead with second phase of LG polls in Sindh,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

Punjab: River Ravi following at 29,000 cusecs and had a normal look, says Flood Forecasting Division
On 17 August, the Flood Forecasting Division officials stated that the river Ravi was flowing at 29,000 cusecs and had a normal look. The officials stated that although India released 171,000 cusecs of water in two days, the dry bed phenomenon worked in favour of Pakistan and only 29,000 cusecs arrived at Shahdara. The official said, “Speed of flow drops, massive quantity of water is lost in quenching riverbed’s thirst and duration of water flow increases. It is precisely for this reason, flow in the Ravi at Shahdara is completely normal. To put the flow in context, the bridge on the Ravi at Shahdara is designed for 235,000 cusecs and Wednesday’s flow is a paltry 29,000 cusecs.” (“Flow in Ravi well under control,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Government reaffirms its intent to sustain monetary and fiscal stability in its LOI to IMF
On 17 August, IMF Country Representatives Esther Perez Ruiz announced that the Fund’s Executive Board meeting for Pakistan’s combined seventh and eighth reviews under the EFF has been scheduled for 29 August. On 15 August, Pakistan had dispatched its Letter of Intent (LOI) to IMF. The LOI had mentioned commitment by government to introduce  monthly PDL increases of PKR10/litre for petrol and PKR 5/litre for diesel on 1 September 2022, followed by increases of PKR 5 per month for both fuels until the PDL reaches PKR 50. Also, the government will phase out Ehsas Ration Riyat Programme during the fiscal year. The government would remain committed market determined exchange rate. State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) interventions will remain guided by market conditions and the objective of rebuilding reserve buffers to bring reserves up to a more prudent level of at least 2.2 months of import coverage by end-FY23 notwithstanding the difficult external environment. Moreover, the government would upgrade the Debt Management Office (DMO) which will be responsible for designing and implementing debt management strategy in line with World Bank and IMF. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt commits more taxes as IMF board meets on 29^th,” Dawn, 18 August 2022)

Government to borrow over USD 34 dollars over the next two months
On 18 August, The Express Tribune reported that in order to repay the maturing old debt of financial institutions, government has planned to borrow PKR 6.78 trillion from commercial banks over a period of two months – August and September 2022, mainly to repay previous loans and to finance its budget deficit, that is 93 per cent of USD 34 billion. Current net debt (domestic and foreign) stands at USD 300 billion, equaling to 89 per cent of the size of the economy. A big chunk of new debt is utilised to repay the old one and pay interest cost on the total debt. Besides, it is partially used to finance infrastructure development projects like roads and dams and the defence budget. According to the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) auction calendar for T-bills and PIBs, the government will raise USD 26 billion through sale of three-month to 12-month T-bills in August and September 2022. The government is due to repay USD 28.65 billion to commercial banks at the maturity of their investment in T-bills during the two months of August and September 2022. (Salman Siddiqui, “Govt to borrow Rs6.8tr from banks,” The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022)

Kulsum Ahmed, Farah Said, Pakistan’s untapped potential
Dawn, 18 August 2022
Women’s participation in the workforce in Pakistan has been consistently low, hovering below 25pc...However, in Pakistan, the uncomfortable truth is that social norms are the overarching constraint. Ultimately, husbands and fathers need to encourage their wives and daughters to work and value their contribution, and women need to use their education and contribute to both society and their households.

Riaz Riazuddin, Our living standards
Dawn, 18 August 2022
Can we improve our standards of living in spite of our incompetent provincial governments? Yes, we can, even as individuals. We need to improve our households’ cleanliness and hygiene to the greatest extent possible. We should not throw our garbage in front of our households. We need to send our children to school to the extent we can afford to do so. Are we doing our bit satisfactorily?

Editorial, The fall guy
Dawn, 18 August 2022
With stability slowly returning to the economy and domestic capital markets starting to show some signs of calm, this should have been a time to keep focus and remain steady, not to go public with a schism in their ranks. The follies keep adding up, eroding any faith left in this government. One wonders whether any maturity will be forthcoming.

Editorial, Never-ending scourge
Dawn, 18 August 2022
All political and religious stakeholders must act at once to express their support for the national polio programme and pledge to keep the cause of polio eradication above petty politics. The price of not doing so would be a terrible one for the country’s children.

Editorial, Polio martyrs
The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022
While the threat of violence is an obvious factor in derailed vaccination efforts, it is disappointing that all of our federal and provincial governments over the past several years have failed to open people’s eyes to the need for and safety of vaccination.

Editorial, Polio attack
The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022
For Pakistan to officially be declared a polio-free country, it would need to go three consecutive years without a single case of polio. Despite all the progress that has been made, we are still far away from reaching that number. The speed with which polio spreads means that unless every child is vaccinated the following year will have more confirmed cases than the one preceding it. By failing to contain polio we are only destroying our children’s futures.

Editorial, Debt quagmire
The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022
Total debt-servicing has jumped to Rs5.5 trillion, pushing the government to cut on the PSDP allocation. The refurbished deal with the IMF will be a stop-gap arrangement, and a long-term settlement will remain on the table. Policies are needed to buckle up the currency and at the same time dig out avenues to pay off the liabilities by cracking down on assets and holdings made with dirty money.

Inam Ul Haque, Anti-military propaganda, political expediency and pitfalls
The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022
Every politician worth his/her salt has used Military as a stepping stone to rise in politics. Those pseudo analysts, who from safe-havens abroad, contribute their pearls of wisdom on the present civil-military relations would do well to come over to Pakistan and endure some hours of lead-shedding with us.

Durdana Najam, Healthcare neglect amid political circus in Punjab
The Express Tribune, 18 August 2022
The political circus in Punjab had rendered the entire health sector incapacitated. One of my reliable friends only yesterday took his cook to Services Hospital Lahore for treatment. The surgical and emergency departments were filthy and in disorder… The highlight is that the Commission has been without a Board for the last seven months. This means no committees. This also means that the Commission cannot decide on any complaint, issuing licences, human resource matters or issues related to inspection and monitoring.

Feisal Naqvi, Fixing judicial appointments
The News International, 18 August 2022
The idea that there is some mystical formula which will result in the infallible selection of worthy Supreme Court judges is a fallacy. It is time to retire the myth and put our faith where the constitution places it: in the combined wisdom of all the members of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.

In Brief
INTERNAL
PPP raises concern over government’s decision on petrol hike
On 16 August, Asif Ali Zardari expressed his concern over the federal government’s decision to increase the price of petroleum products by Rs 6.72 for the next fortnight, saying that “consultation on such decisions” was important. Zardari said that PPP and other coalition parties had joined the government to give relief to the people, calling it “our top priority”. Miftah Ismail, in a series of tweets earlier today, said that the government had not imposed new taxes on petroleum products and the changes had been accorded to purchasing by the Pakistan State Oil. (“ Zardari expresses concern over Shehbaz govt’s decision to raise petrol prices,” Dawn,17 August 2022)

Senate committee expressed concern over PNSC crisis
On 16 August, the Senate Standing Committee on Maritime Affairs expressed concern over the administrative crisis in the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC), triggered by the refusal of the former chairman to hand over charge to his successor, on the basis of a stay order. The committee meeting, presided over by Senator Rubina Khalid, was informed that Shehbaz Sharif had appointed Rear Admiral Jawad Ahmed as the chairman of the PNSC on 5 August and the new chairman went to the PNSC headquarters the same day to take charge. However, the former chairman of the state-owned entity, Mr. Rizwan Ahmed, refused to vacate the office on the grounds that he had obtained a stay order from the Sindh High Court. The committee said that non-compliance with the prime minister’s order was a criminal offense, and the chairperson of the committee directed the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to take stern action against Mr. Ahmed and curtail his financial and administrative powers. (Kalbe Ali, “Senate panel expresses concern over crisis in Pakistan National Shipping Corporation,” Dawn, 17 August 2022)

Elahi challenges ECP’s domain to hear intra-party polls case
On 16 August, Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi challenged the jurisdiction of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in deciding the intra-party elections of his party, the PML-Q. Elahi’s counsel contended the PML-Q was without a leadership since the ECP’s decision. A five-member bench of the ECP, headed by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja had heard the petition against the removal of PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain from his post as well as the holding of the intra-party polls. (“Elahi challenges ECP’s domain to hear intra-party polls case,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022)

Shahzad Akbar to be placed on no-fly list
On 16 August, the federal cabinet consented to place the names of two of Imran Khan’s close aides Mirza Shahzad Akbar and Ziaul Mustafa Naseem on the no-fly list over their alleged involvement in a financial scam, at the request of the National Accountability Bureau. On the recommendations of the Ministry of Interior, the cabinet approved the inclusion of 10 persons on the Exit Control List, removal of 22 persons from ECL, and grant of one-time permission to three persons. Both Akbar and Naseem are presently in the UK. As per practice, if a person whose name is placed on ECL is abroad, he is arrested on his return and handed over to the relevant law enforcement agency. (Syed Irfan Raza, “Ex-PM’s adviser Shahzad Akbar placed on no-fly list,” Dawn 17 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Two police officers on polio duty killed in Tank
On 16 August, two police officers providing security to polio workers were killed after “unknown terrorists” opened fire on them in Tank, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Following the incident, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “Police force has been rendering unmatched sacrifices against terrorism,” the report quoted the prime minister as saying, adding that he expressed the commitment to eliminate the “menace of terrorism.” (“2 police officers on polio security martyred by firing in KP’s Tank,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Thousands protest in Lower Dir against lawlessness
On 16 August, thousands of people protested the non-arrest of the culprits behind the attack at PTI MPA Liaqat Ali Khan in Timargara, Lower Dir. They accused the government of inaction in the face of increasing lawlessness and said that police failed to arrest the culprits behind the attack despite the passage of 12 days. A complete shutter-down was also observed across the district on this occasion. (Syed Amjad Ali Shah, “Thousands protest in Lower Dir against lawlessness,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022)

Balochistan: Cabinet decides to set up commission for missing persons
On 16 August, the cabinet decided to constitute a high-powered parliamentary commission on the issue of missing persons. The body will be headed by the home minister and include two members each from the government and the opposition and the summary of the commission should be submitted to the Chief Minister. The provincial cabinet reviewed the situation in the wake of the devastating rains and floods. An official of the Board of Revenue informed the cabinet about the human and financial losses caused by floods in the province. The cabinet ordered the completion of surveys about losses caused by the floods and rains so that relief and rehabilitation work could begin soon. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan cabinet okays commission on missing persons,” Dawn, 17 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Flow of remittance slows down to a five month low
On 16 August, the Central Bank reported that the flow of remittances sent home by overseas Pakistanis slowed down to a five-month low at USD 2.52 billion in July of the current fiscal year mainly due to the lesser number of working days in the month. Remittances slowed down to USD 2.52 billion in July compared to USD 2.76 billion in June. The inflows decelerated 7.75 per cent compared to the same month of last year, as the extended holidays in the Middle East due to Eid, Hajj, and Umrah seasons during July kept their business centers closed including the money senders. (Salman Siddiqui, “Remittances dip to 5-month low,” Dawn, 17 August 2022)

ON CLIMATE CHANGE
Pakistan likely to be water scarce by 2025, says Climate Change minister
On 17 August, The News International reported that Federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman claimed that Pakistan is the eighth most-affected country by the climate change globally and likely to be water scarce by 2025. She added that the country is also in the grip of food, climate, water, population and environmental crisis. Further, she highlighted that Pakistan had faced 152 extreme events in the last two decades with constant shifts in rainfall patterns, intensity and frequency. She added, This is unprecedented and we need to prioritise adaptation action beyond mitigation and work in these sectors will reduce our vulnerability to climate change.” (Pakistan to be water scarce by 2025: Sherry” The News International, 17 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
CJP asks Sindh govt to explain factors determining constituencies
On 16 August, while hearing a petition, filed by Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and others, Chief Justice Bandial observed that the difference in population of some union committees was more than 100%. A three-member bench, headed by the chief justice and including Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Ayesha A Malik, took up the MQM-P leaders’ petition against the Sindh government, pertaining to the delimitation of constituencies for the local body elections in the province. He added that everything was not proportionate to the population in Pakistan as the largest province in terms of area had the least population. Justice Malik asked about the basis on which the Sindh government had made the delimitation of constituencies. (“CJP asks Sindh govt to explain factors determining constituencies,” The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
COAS gets UAE’s highest civil award
On 16 August, UAE President Mohammad bin Zayed bestowed his country’s highest civil award, “Order of Zayed,” on COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa. King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, President Xi Jinping of China, former US President George Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, other major global and GCC leaders have received the coveted award. (“COAS gets UAE’s highest civil award,” The News International, 17 August 2022)

Pakistan may seek 15-year LNG deal with Qatar
On 17 August, The News International reported that Pakistan may seek a 15-year LNG contract with Qatar on a G2G (government to government) basis — two cargoes in a month with a reopening price clause after 11 years. Pakistan was also likely to offload PIA shares to hand over the management of the national flag carrier either to Qatar or the UAE on a G2G basis. Apart from it, the Islamabad airport was also proposed to be handed over to any of the two countries. In addition, there is a proposal to sell out two RLNG-based power plants, Haveli Bahadur Shah and Balloki. The 1,223 MW Balloki combined-cycle gas-fired power plant has over 61 per cent efficiency. Under the proposal, the buyers will be responsible to provide LNG to both the power plants, but they will have to pay for using the infrastructure of LNG terminals and pipelines. (Kalid Mustafa, “Pakistan may seek 15-year LNG deal with Qatar,” The News International, 17 August 2022)

Zahid Hussain, A dangerous dead end
Dawn, 17 August 2022
It is a very serious situation with no political solution in sight. Political uncertainty makes it harder to stabilise the economy. Even early elections are not going to resolve the political crisis in this atmosphere of confrontation. It is an extremely unfortunately position for a county that has just celebrated the 75th anniversary of its independence.

Rashid Amjad, Against heavy odds
Dawn, 17 August 2022
A real strength of the economy which, sadly, remains exploited and neglected, are women — despite some significant progress since the 1980s with the rise of an active women’s rights movement. Together with its youth bulge, Pakistan’s women could propel the economy to a higher, more sustainable and equitable growth path if given the opportunity to realise their full potential.

Editorial, No end to hostility
Dawn, 17 August 2022
The question is: can people and the country’s fragile economy afford another political crisis due to the Punjab-centre confrontation? It is time for all parties to rise above such petty tactics and hostilities for political gains and pull the country back from the brink.

Editorial, New banknote
Dawn, 17 August 2022
Having crossed the 75-year milestone, it is important for the country to stay rooted but be progressive in its aspirations and cognisant of the hopes of its youthful population, especially its women. This commemorative banknote fittingly captures that spirit through its thoughtful design.

Editorial, Climate concerns
The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022
As for the other impacts, a recent UN report estimated Pakistan’s annual climate change-related economic losses as high as $26 billion a year, with fears that losses would increase until concrete action is taken. This makes Pakistan, in economic terms, the most at-risk country in South Asia, and among the most at-risk in the world if we exclude tiny island nations.

Editorial, Pakistan’s feat
The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022
The launch ceremony on the eve of Independence Day prided itself in saying that the product has the capacity and potential to become a sought-after export commodity. This achievement underscores the fact that there is no dearth of potential, and the tangibles especially among the youth can be buoyed by just ensuring the right environment.

Editorial, Perils of warfare
The Express Tribune, 17 August 2022
It’s time for Washington to read between the lines, and step back from the brink. There is a lot to interact with China, and animosity would be the last thing. At a time when the global economy is literally banking on mass production and investment, which obviously comes from China, provoking Beijing in a war is a self-centred and myopic approach. Let Taiwan be on its own.

Editorial, Petrol and politics
The News International, 17 August 2022
Keeping fossil fuel prices linked with international prices has also had the desirable impact of dampening demand at the pump, helping Pakistan save precious foreign exchange at a crucial time. This is precisely the policy posture necessitated by the IMF-sponsored economic reform programme. Here's hoping the Fund’s executive board, due to meet in a week or so, has no problem greenlighting the restoration of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Pakistan needs to keep its head above water.

In Brief
ECONOMY
Government set to dispatch letter of intent to IMF
On 16 August, The News International reported that Islamabad has made a fresh request to the Fund staff for making some slight changes in it. Now the mini budget will be unveiled through the promulgation of the Presidential Ordinance to fetch additional taxes. Pakistan has also made a request to the IMF for augmenting the EFF programme by USD one billion, increasing it from the existing USD six billion to USD seven billion and also jacked up the timeframe from September 2022 to June 2023. The signed LoI will be circulated among the board members for reviving the stalled Fund program 15 days prior to holding the IMF’s Executive Board meeting on 28 August. (Mehtab Haider, “Govt to send LoI to IMF today,” The News International, 16 August 2022)

Net public debt and liabilities increase up to USD 300 billion
On 15 August, the State Bank of Pakistan released year-on-year financial indicators and shows that Pakistan’s total debt and liabilities reached PKR 59.7 trillion by June 30, compared to PKR 47.844 trillion in FY21. The year-on-year growth in debt and liabilities was 24.8 per cent in FY22, compared to a growth of just 7.3 per cent in FY21. The net debt and liabilities now stand at 89.2 per cent of the GDP. Total debt and liability servicing rose to USD 27 billion in FY22 compared to USD 22.84 billion in FY21. Pakistan had to pay USD 15.071 billion as external debt servicing in FY22, compared to USD 13.424 billion in the previous fiscal year. It increased by 21.6 per cent in FY22, compared to 2.5 per cent in FY21. The central government’s gross domestic debt (without external debt) was USD 155 billion by June 30, FY22, against USD 131.325 billion by the end of June FY21. The general government’s external debt rose to USD 86.134 billion in FY22 compared to USD 82.5 billion in FY21. The bifurcation shows that interest accounted for about 25 per cent of the principal amount of debt. (Shahid Iqbal, “Pakistan’s debt burden up Rs11.8tr in FY22,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

INTERNAL
Hearing fixed for the PTI plea in funding case
On 16 August, PTI‘s application against the ECP decision in the prohibited funding case was fixed for hearing in Islamabad High Court today. PTI has challenged the commission's decision in the high court on the basis of the fact-finding report in the case. The petition has requested that the proceedings on the report be suspended and the show cause notice issued by the commission should be suspended as well. (“PTI plea in funding case fixed for hearing,” The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Sindh: Government launches week-long anti-polio campaign to inoculate over 9.9 million children
On 15 August, the Sindh government launched a launched a week-long anti-polio campaign to inoculate over 9.9 million children under five. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah formally launched the drive at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH). The campaign is scheduled to be held until 21 August in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions and then extended to Shaheed Benazirabad, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur, and Larkana divisions. (Tahir Siddiqui, “Week-long drive to vaccinate 9.9m children against polio begins in Sindh,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Sindh: LG law is ‘discriminatory’ says MQM
On 15 August, MQM told the Supreme Court that section 10 (1) of the SLGA, 2013 was discriminatory as it deprived the party of any opportunity to have its own mayor to serve Karachi and other cities of the province. Representing MQM, Barrister Dr. Farogh Naseem argued before the top court that through section 10(1) of the SLGA, the Sindh government had violated the Supreme Court’s 2014 directions in which the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was empowered to delimit local government constituencies under Article 140-A, 218 and 222 of the Constitution and the federal, Sindh and Punjab governments were asked to make laws to enable the ECP to delimit constituencies of local governments. Headed by Umar Ata Bandial, the Supreme Court bench also comprising Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Ayesha Malik, had taken up a set of petitions filed by MQM, PTI, and others against the SLGA .(Nasir Iqbal, “MQM terms Sindh LG law ‘discriminatory’,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:  Landmine blast injures Khar tehsil Chairman
On 15 August, Khar tehsil council chairman Haji Said Badshah was injured along with his two companions in a landmine explosion in tehsil at about 9:30 am. Police said that the vehicle of Badshah was hit by a landmine planted along the roadside and is under investigation to find the elements behind the attack. A team of medical workers immediately reached the area and shifted all the injured to the district headquarters hospital in Khar for treatment after providing first aid to them. The officials were told by the doctors that the condition of the wounded persons was stable. (Anwarullah Khan, “Khar tehsil chairman among three injured in landmine blast,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Balochistan: ANP alleges province being pushed into fire, demands judicial probe into police shooting in Harnai
On 15 August, Awami National Party (ANP), a coalition partner in the Balochistan Awami Party-led provincial government, and some opposition members demanded formation of a judicial commission, headed by a senior judge of the high court, to probe into alleged killing of an ANP activist. It is pertinent to mention that neither the local police, nor the Balochistan government, nor the military have addressed the alleged incident and the subsequent protest. ANP parliamentary alleged that police and local administration were not registering an FIR against those who fired on the protesters. (Saleem Shahid, “Demand for judicial probe into Harnai shooting,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Assembly accepts adjournment motion over lawlessness in Swat and Malakand Division
On 15 August, an adjournment motion on the ‘deteriorating’ law and order situation in Swat and other districts of Malakand division and tribal districts for general discussion was jointly tabled by MPAs of the opposition MMA. It added that a wave of lawlessness had swept through the region and, after repeated incidents of targeted killings, some armed men held officials of the law-enforcement agencies, including a deputy superintendent of police, hostage in Swat. (“KP Assembly admits opposition’s motion for debate on Malakand ‘lawlessness’,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

ON MILITARY
Discussion over the appointment of next chief of Pakistan’s Army
On 16 August, Dawn reported that a senior PML-N member has stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif could initiate discussions on the appointment by the end of August and finalise the decision by mid-September. According to Dawn, four of the six top Lt-Gens at the time of Gen Bajwa’s retirement will be from the same batch, while a fifth is senior to almost the entire lot. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Who will be the next army chief?,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
US and Pakistan officials discuss options got COAS visit to Washington
On 16 August, while speaking to diplomatic sources, Dawn reported that the United States and Pakistani officials are considering various options for COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa to visit the United States in late August or early September. Previously, COAS Gen Bajwa urged the US to assist Pakistan in securing an early disbursement of funds from the IMF. Additionally, he spoke with US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. (Anwar Iqbal, “US, Pakistan discuss options for Gen Bajwa’s visit to DC,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

UAE to join hands with Pakistan in setting up Plasma Farming Facilities
On 16 August, Dawn reported that the Ministry of National Health Services in a landmark development discussed the development of the plasma farming facilities (PFF) with the UAE. A UAE mission, which is on a visit to Pakistan, aims to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of PFF in Pakistan based on WHO standards as the blood services in the country are mostly provided by hospitals’ blood banks with no functional separation of the plasma processes into production and utilization. It was a significant development as Pakistan does not have even a single PFF despite the fact that there are a few hundred thousand patients suffering from an immunodeficiency disorder. After the visit, the team will furnish a feasibility report for the execution of the project, and later on, plasma fractionation establishment shall be considered. (Ikram Junaidi, “UAE to help Pakistan set up plasma farming facilities,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

ON FATF
FATF team to arrive in Pakistan for ‘on-site’ visit in September
On 16 August, The Express Tribune reported that a team of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is expected to visit Pakistan in September to conduct “on-site” visit. During the visit the team would verify the steps taken by Pakistan to curb money laundering and terror financing before it finally exits the watchdog’s grey list. (Kamran Yousuf, “FATF team due next month for ‘on-site’ visit,” The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022)

ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Mehdi Shah to be appointed as the Gilgit- Baltistan governor
On 15 August, President Dr. Arif approved the appointment of Syed Mehdi Shah as the Gilgit-Baltistan governor, through a statement, the Presidency said the appointment of Syed Mehdi Shah was made under Section 33(3) of the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 on the advice of the prime minister. As the party finalized the name of Mr. Shah, Prime Minister Sharif sent a summary to President Alvi for the appointment. He was elected as the first chief minister of GB from 2010 to 2014 when the post was created under the GB Self-Governance Order 2009 during the PPP regime. (Jamil Nagri, “Mehdi Shah appointed GB governor,” Dawn, 16 August 2022)

Arifa Noor, Question of age
Dawn, 16 August 2022
The PDM (especially the PML-N) has to get its act together. The message aside, it is losing the war of the medium. Its image, its culture and consequently its message are suffering in comparison with a party which is seen as the party of the youth and offers a compatible culture and image. Why are the rest not moving ahead and, instead, clinging on to the ways of the 1990s? Dare anyone ask this question?

Editorial, Shared goals
Dawn, 16 August 2022
There are people in both camps who remain obstinate in their refusal to engage with the other. Till such immaturity holds sway, there is little hope for sense to prevail. It is high time that all parties realise that negotiation on the economy does not need to be held hostage to political rivalries.

Editorial, Making amends?
Dawn, 16 August 2022
Sovereignty must always be guarded, but dragging foreign countries into domestic political affairs is a bad idea. Mr Khan has his eyes set on Islamabad and he knows that if he is re-elected and returns to PM House, he will have to repair relations with the US. The only question is that from now till election day, will Mr Khan stick to this narrative, or again change course?

Editorial, Economic ‘growth’ in 75 years
The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022
As for taking pride in becoming one of the world’s largest economies, this is only because of our unmanageable population growth. Our GDP-per-capita is actually among the lowest in the world. Per capita GDP for the world has grown over 30-fold since the 1950s, which means we actually trail the world. For this, all of our leaders since independence should hang their heads in shame.

Editorial, Building an economy
The News International, 16 August 2022
We have already seen the havoc populist policies can wreak on a struggling economy. Let there not be a constant repeat of this. Sooner or later, all must realize that economic progress on solid grounds is tightly linked with the constitutional supremacy of democracy and rule of law. We cannot go on any further while begging and borrowing from others.

Editorial, Judiciary on trial
The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022
Next general elections in Pakistan are just around the corner. It is time for the new government at the Centre and in the Provinces to make merit the cornerstone of governance and allow the judges to step back and do what they do best.

Editorial, Celebratory firing
The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022
A general consensus must be reached among the masses that celebratory firing not only leads to innocent deaths but the loud bang of gunfire affects frail senior citizens who seek shelter in their homes during such occasions.

Politics of delimitation
The News International, 16 August 2022
In a notification issued in December 2021, the Sindh government gave a green signal for the delimitation of constituencies in Karachi Division… Since delimitation of constituencies of the local government is the part of the process of organizing and holding elections, the ECP should have the power to carry it out. Even if it is accepted that it’s the jurisdiction and responsibility of a provincial government to carry out delimitation, there are certain principles that need to be followed effectively.

Editorial, Sound of silence
The News International, 16 August 2022
By 2030, Pakistan’s population is expected to cross 285 million; it doesn’t have the resources to cater to this population growth rate and yet infant and maternal mortality rates – healthcare concepts that should ideally be easily talked about – become an uphill task in the face of a conservative society that views population planning with inherent scepticism. Instead of celebrating our heroes, we make them controversial, cloaking everything under an arbitrary value system that belies logic.

Editorial, Astroturf removal
The Express Tribune, 16 August 2022
Hockey, the national sport of Pakistan, has been in a free fall for decades. The national team struggles to compete even in major tournaments due to lack of travel and expense funds. This is indeed an injustice on those who put their lives at stake to play for the country, and for sports in general in Pakistan.

In Brief
INTERNAL
National Assembly hold Minority Convention for the first time
On 11 August, a minority convention was held in the National Assembly to commemorate the speech of Muhammad Ali Jinnah regarding the freedom and equality of minorities in the then constituent assembly on 11 August 1947. This was the first meeting of its kind in Pakistan’s parliamentary history. During the meeting, a unanimous resolution was passed for the rights of minorities, in which all the representatives of the all minority communities declared parliament as the centre of their hopes. Meanwhile, NA Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf announced that the minority convention would be held on 11 August every year. (“NA hosts ‘Minority Convention’ to uphold their rights,” Dawn, 12 August 2022)

We will celebrate Pakistan's “real freedom” on 13 August, says Imran Khan
On 11 August, Imran Khan stated that during the rally on 13 August Pakistan's “real freedom” will be celebrated. Further, while addressing the convention of the minority community he said, “If there is no justice in a society, that society cannot develop. There is no justice in the animal society … the powerful rule, but there is justice in human society and justice means implementing human rights.” Additionally, he assured the minority community that “we will protect the rights of the minorities in Pakistan, as we are the protectors of the rights of the minority community.” (“Imran says he will show how to achieve ‘real freedom’ on 13th,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022)

PPP calls for reviewing the seven-year-old National Action Plan
On 11 August, PPP Senator Raza Rabbani while speaking to Dawn called for revisiting the policy of engagement with the TTP and review of the seven-year-old National Action Plan (NAP) against terrorism. Further, he suggested that the new NAP should be prepared by the Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS) having representation of all stakeholders. Further, while speaking on the increased terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa he said, “These attacks suggest the need to revisit NAP as also the policy of engagement with the TTP as it also no longer seems to have a unified command.” (Amir Wasim, “Raza Rabbani for revisiting policy of engagement with Tehreek-i-Taliban,” Dawn, 12 August 2022)

Meanwhile, The Express Tribune reported that the government is preparing a ‘contingency plan’ to deal with the resurgence of the TTP. Additionally, according to The News International, the TTP has established a check-post on the Balasoor Top besides moving in other areas of Matta tehsil of Swat district. (“Govt cobbles up plan to tackle TTP resurgence,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022; “TTP militants set up ‘checkpost’ in Swat,” The News International, 12 August 2022)

Politicians are required to respect the national institutions, says Asif
On 11 August, Khawaja Asif while addressing the soft launch ceremony of the 11th International Defense Exhibition and Seminar -2022, said that “leaders of all political parties were required to respect the national security institutions, warning that if anyone showed disrespect, he would definitely face the law.” According to Asif, the motto of IDEAS-2022 ‘Arms for Peace’ highlighted “our commitment to the international community for peace and harmony”. He added: “Besides meeting the domestic requirements our defense products are now gaining market shares at the international level as well.” (“Asif says politicians required to respect national institutions,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Qasim Suri avoids FIA notice and gets court stops action against the ex-speaker
On 12 August, Dawn reported that Qasim Suri challenged the call-up notice issued to him by the FIA. In its ongoing probe into the case, the Peshawar High Court restrained the FIA from taking any action against the former National Assembly speaker. The bench directed the court’s office to fix for hearing in the last week of August the petition that requested the court to set aside a notice issued by the FIA to Qasim to appear before an inquiry officer in connection with the probe into two bank accounts managed by the former speaker from 2018 till 2013 as the PTI provincial head. The petitioner wants the inquiry to be declared illegal and based on mala fide. (Malik Asad, “Court stops action against ex-speaker, Suri ‘ignores’ FIA notice,” Dawn 12 August 2022)

Punjab: Criticism over removing Astroturf in Lahore’s National Stadium
On 11 August, Former hockey Olympian Manzoorul Hasan Senior said that the Punjab government’s decision of removing the Astroturf from the National Hockey Stadium for the PTI public rally was described as a great loss of hockey. It is the biggest hockey stadium in Asia and has hosted several momentous tournaments such as the World Cup. He questioned Sports Minister Malik Masood’s claim that the turf was being replaced and now it would be installed in Sargodha and that it had to be changed by the Buzdar government because it was already quite old. He further stated that the decision to change the turf had already been taken by the previous government so it was not being replaced owing to the public rally. (Mohammad Yaqoob, “Punjab takes the flak for removal of Lahore's National Stadium AstroTurf,” Dawn, 12 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
ARU and FBR officials to face action for Justice Isa’s case
On 12 August, The Express Tribune reported that the government has decided to take action against heads and officials of the Asset Recovery Unit and the Federal Board of Revenue for misusing their authority in the Justice Isa case. The cabinet has formed a ministerial committee to fix responsibility on the ARU and the FBR heads and officials. They exceeded or misused their authority in the case and present its recommendations to it in two weeks. The law and justice minister will be the convener of the body. The members also demanded that Mirza Shahzad Akbar, the then adviser on accountability, as well as the officials of the ARU and FBR, should be held accountable. (Zafar Bhutta, “Justice Isa case haunts ARU, FBR officials,” The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Forex reserves to fall near three-year low
 On 11 August, data from the central bank showed that SBP foreign currency reserves fell to their lowest level in almost three years at USD  7.83 billion as of 5 August from USD 8.385 billion a week earlier on debt payments. Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves fell by USD 648 million or 4.6 per cent to USD 13.561 billion and those of commercial banks dropped 1.6 per cent to USD 5.730 billion. The central bank in a statement said that the debt repayments are expected to moderate during the next three weeks of this month as the reduction in the reverse was due to the external debt payments. (“SBP’s forex reserves fall to near 3-year low of $7.4bn,” The News International, 12 August 2022)

New taxation programs worth Rs 15 billion ahead IMF meeting
On 12 August, Dawn reported that the government has decided to introduce new taxation measures worth Rs15 billion in the next few days as part of the agreement with the IMF to revive a loan program. The new measures are expected to be taken ahead of the IMF board meeting scheduled for 24 August, which among others will approve the release of a USD 1.17 billion tranche for Pakistan as part of the extended fund facility. The IMF board meeting is planned for late August once adequate financing assurances are confirmed, by imposing taxes on the products. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Govt mulls Rs15bn new taxes ahead of IMF meeting,” Dawn, 12 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
US shares Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of a Pakistan at peace, says US Ambassador
On 11 August, US Ambassador Donald Blome during his visit to the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah said that the US shares Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of a Pakistan at peace with itself and its neighbours, a Pakistan of religious tolerance, economic prosperity and social inclusion. Further, he said, “This year marks 75 years of bilateral relations between the United States and Pakistan. The United States values our long-standing cooperation with Pakistan and has always viewed a strong, prosperous, and democratic Pakistan as critical to the US interests.”  (“US values long-term ties with Pakistan: Blome,” The News International, 12 August 2022)

PM Shehbaz meets with newly-appointed EU Ambassador to Pakistan
On 11 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the newly-arrived envoy of the European Union to Pakistan, Dr Riina Kionka. During the meeting he expressed hope that the GSP Plus scheme, would continue beyond 2023, stating, “With current GSP Plus scheme mutually beneficial, trading ties between Pakistan and EU should be enhanced. Pakistan will continue to be part of the arrangement beyond 2023.” Further, he said, “Pakistan attaches high importance to its relations with the EU as well as its historically close and cooperative bilateral ties with EU member states.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Shehbaz hopes for GSP Plus status to continue beyond 2023,” Dawn, 12 August 2022)

Faisal Siddiqi, Judicial Commission controversy
Dawn, 12 August 2022
The future of the judiciary lies in the hands of our present Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial, and the future chief justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa. I cannot think of two better CJPs to lead this institution if only their judicial legacy, and not their immediate power positions, is the focus of their attention.

Editorial, Militancy redux
Dawn, 12 August 2022
There have been increasing reports over the past month about them establishing their presence in the area. But that begs the question why, of all the TTP chapters, are only militants from the Swat chapter evidently returning home? What are the terms of the ceasefire that the Pakistani state has agreed with them? Have they been allowed to return without laying down their arms, contrary to what had been publicly stated?

Editorial, Rising militancy
The News International, 12 August 2022
From Nek Mohammad to several other deals, we have seen how the TTP has not abided by any agreements in the past. It is important for Pakistan to now set some ground rules and then approach any such negotiations. With a political and economic crisis on the one hand and the hydra of terrorism rearing its head again on the other, any attemps atdealing with the TTP must be formed via consensus and a well-thought-out plan. Pakistan cannot afford such a security nightmare at this time.

Editorial, Distorting history
Dawn, 12 August 2022
Partition should definitely be discussed, but by unbiased scholars of repute from both countries, not by semi-literate fire-breathing ideologues that seek to use history as a tool to forward their divisive agendas, and capture a few votes.

Syed Mohammad Ali, Cooption and elite capture
The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022
The cooption of identity politics may somewhat alter what power looks like, but not what power is, what it aims to achieve, and how. We in Pakistan must pay more heed to this phenomenon of elite capture, and how the manipulation and cooption of socio-political movements continues to enable the perpetuation of glaring inequalities within our midst.

Editorial, Money in politics
The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022
Strongly enforced spending caps can be problematic in bigger constituencies and areas with higher advertising costs, but they are still probably the easiest place to start. Donor transparency is another area which needs to be investigated. This could be done through a public database which parties and candidates must regularly update with every political donation received and details of how funds are spent.

Dr Pervez Tahir, Budget speeches FY1949/2023
The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022
As Pakistan became independent in the fifth month of FY48 (April-March), the first budget speech related to FY49. It resonates considerably with the FY2023 speech, except for the deficit.

Editorial, Economic hope-line
The Express Tribune, 12 August 2022
It’s time for Pakistan to walk a tightrope, and ensure that the burden that has piled up on the masses is lessened. With inflation at over 22% amidst a battered rupee, a lot of microeconomic homework is needed. While the tranche from IMF and commercial loans from friendly states might bail us out of the exigency situation, the country is in dire need of a sustainable economic policy, coupled with political stability. The scale of spending against income is up for a litmus test.

In Brief
INTERNAL
Raid on Gill's driver's house 'legal,' says ICT police
On 10 August, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) stated that the raid conducted on PTI Shahbaz Gill’s driver’s house was ‘legal.’ The police claimed that they were collecting “all evidence” related to the case. They said, “Wherever legal action is required, the police will do its job," adding that the scope of this particular case could be extended to other provinces beyond Islamabad. Further, they said that legal action would be taken against those who were found “concealing evidence or erasing evidence.”

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Parvez Elahi said that he advised the PTI leadership to disassociate itself from the anti-army statement given by Shahbaz Gill adding, “I have given a statement against Shahbaz Gill’s tirade against Pakistan Army, which is an important national institution, and asked him whether he had gone out of his senses.” (“ICT police says raid on Gill's driver's house 'legal',” The Express Tribune, 11 August 2022; Mansoor Malik, “Elahi advises PTI to distance itself from Gill’s remarks,” The Express Tribune, 11 August 2022)

TTP claims not involved in Dir lawmaker attack
On 10 August, the TTP denied involvement in the recent armed attack on PTI MPA Malik Liaquat Ali Khan. Additionally, the TTP ‘strongly’ condemned the attack and was carrying out an investigation to check whether any of its members were involved in it. (“TTP claims not involved in Dir lawmaker attack,” The News International, 11 August 2022)

Qasim Suri gets notice to appear before FIA over Fund’s probe
On 10 August, FIA summoned Qasim Khan Suri among four other PTI leaders to appear in person before the agency today in a case about the ECP in a prohibited funding case. The financial watchdog pointed out that Rs5.3 million were withdrawn from the PTI accounts in the aforementioned three years out of the total deposited Rs5.5m in the same period. The agency said, "The bank account where the money was transferred is registered in the name of Qasim Khan Suri and three other PTI leaders. “Replying to the notice Suri responded that none of their leaders will appear before the FIA as the Islamabad High court has already declared such notices unconstitutional.” He added the money was deposited into the official account of the PTI from 2011 to 2013 and the funds were used for party affairs. (Ghalib Nihad, “FIA summons PTI's Qasim Suri, other leaders in funds probe,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: One killed in grenade and bomb attacks in Khuzdar and Noshki areas
On 10 August, one person was killed and 10 others were injured in grenade and bomb attacks in Khuzdar and Noshki areas in Balochistan. According to the police, unknown motorcyclists targeted a stall selling Pakistani flags and other decoration items in Khuzdar while an improvised explosive device planted in a vehicle was used in Anam-Bostan road in Noshki. (“One killed, 10 injured in grenade, bomb attacks in Khuzdar and Noshki,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)

Sindh: Assembly fails to meet for 100 working days for the first time
On 11 August, Dawn reported that the Sindh Assembly for the first time in the past many years met only less than 100 working days in the current parliamentary years. The Rules of Procedure stated that “the house shall meet for not less than one hundred working days in each parliamentary year”, it remained in session for just 71 days in the current parliamentary year ending on 12 August. The Sindh Assembly did not observe the timings of sittings from 10 am to 2 pm as per the assembly rules. Mukesh Kumar Chawla said that the assembly could not meet for 100 days as per assembly rules mainly due to devastating rains of monsoon season, though monsoon rain started on 4 July. (Tahir Siddiqui, “For first time, Sindh PA fails to meet for 100 days in parliamentary year,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)
 
Sindh: 130 villages submerged after the rise in the Indus River
On 11 August, Dawn reported about 130 villages came under water and standing crops worth millions of rupees were destroyed in the riverine area after rising in the Indus river across many districts of Sindh. The district administration and irrigation department had made joint efforts and started patrolling along the dyke while flood-fighting material and machinery were made available. Officials said that water would start receding in the river in the districts within two or three days and it did not pose any harm to embankments. (“130 villages in Sindh's riverine area come under water after rise in Indus level,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Militant search still in process in Swat Mountains
On 10 August, police said that a search operation was being conducted in different areas to arrest the militants who opened fire at a police party two days ago in the mountainous area bordering Swat and Dir districts. Following the incident, the district police, counterterrorism department, and Elite Force reached the spot and extended the search operation to adjoining areas. A video being circulated on social media purportedly shows a man claiming to be a Taliban militant interviewing DSP Khan and two officers, who as per unverified claims, belonged to Pakistan Army. (Fasal Khaliq, Haleem Asad, “Search for militants in Swat’s mountains continues,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
COAS Gen Bajwa arrives in UK for official visit
On 10 August, the ISPR said that COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa arrived in the United Kingdom on an official visit. During the visit, the army chief would attend the passing out parade at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, as the chief guest and also meet with the military leadership of the UK. (“COAS Gen Bajwa arrives in UK,” The Express Tribune, 11 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Rupee gains Rs 4.9 in Interbank, says FAP
On 11 August, the rupee which has been consistently recovering after falling to a record low last month continued its upward momentum. It gained Rs 4.91 to reach Rs 217 against the dollar in the interbank market, according to FAP. Malik Bostan attributed the rupee’s continued recovery to several factors, including the expected release of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) tranche by August 19 to 24 which he said had created confidence among investors and ended the crisis the market was facing. He further said that oil prices had dropped internationally and imports had been reduced due to the government’s measures, all of which had positively affected the exchange rate. (Talqeen Zubairi, “Rupee continues upward momentum, gains Rs4.9 in interbank,” Dawn, 11 August 2022)

Zahid Hussain, Return to the dark ages
Dawn, 11 August 2022
It’s apparent that the TTP is being protected by the Haqqani faction of the Afghan Taliban. The initial euphoria among a section of the Pakistani ruling elite after the Taliban took Kabul last year should have vanished with the spillover effects of the conservative regime in the country.

Shahid Mehmood, Pakistan’s economic potential
Dawn, 11 August 2022
The good aspect though is that the above can be achieved with little government intervention. Although the history of economic management in this country is stacked squarely against such a happenstance, let’s hope for its sake that things take a turn for the better.

Editorial, Khorasani’s killing
Dawn, 11 August 2022
So far the TTP has remained quiet about the fate of negotiations. There was a statement from the terrorist group eulogising Omar Khalid Khorasani’s so-called ‘services’ to the ‘cause’, but nothing about the status of the talks. Certainly, if the more hard-line group within the TTP prevails, we can assume talks will most likely break down.

Editorial, Gross overreaction
Dawn, 11 August 2022
The government has already done considerable damage to itself with its indelicate handling of the situation. It would be well-advised to step back and desist from setting a precedent that it may be made to rue one day.

Editorial, Money in politics
The Express Tribune, 11 August 2022
The same would also apply to private groups and individuals financing political campaigns. Criminal penalties, as long as they are fairly applied, would be more than enough to change the face of Pakistani electioneering, certainly making it cleaner and, hopefully, a little more representative.

Editorial, Gill’s arrest
The Express Tribune, 11 August 2022
Soaring cost of living and plummeting employment stare us right in our face, and have been compounded with an irresistible rise in oil and energy prices. To add misery are the monsoon floods which have devastated standing crops. It’s time to collectively address these public issues, and not to indulge in pricking political balloons.

The strange case of Imran Khan
The News International, 11 August 2022
Imran Khan is then protected by a mysterious phenomenon. How long he can live with this and survive in the political scenario of Pakistan is unclear. But for now, despite all the knowledge of his political naivete and his lack of ability to run the country, he remains a figure to be reckoned with and could be a force on the political playing field in the coming years, unless recent moves are to be broadened.

In Brief
PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Four soldiers killed in North Waziristan suicide attack
On 9 August, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that four soldiers were killed in a suicide blast at a military convoy in the Mir Ali area of North Waziristan district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.  According to the ISPR, intelligence agencies have begun investigations to find out details about the suicide bomber who carried out the attack and his handlers and facilitators. (Naveed Siddiqui, “4 soldiers martyred in North Waziristan suicide attack: ISPR,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

Punjab: PTI’s participation in by-polls gets questioned by Gilani
On 8 August, Yousuf Raza Gilani while attending the mourning processions in Multan raised questions against PTI participation in the National assembly by-election. He said, “Since PTI MNAs are not participating in the assembly session after submitting their resignations, they have no right to contest the by-election.” He further said people would vote for a candidate having the ability to represent them in the National Assembly instead of a candidate whose party was boycotting the assembly after submitting resignations. (“Yousuf Raza Gilani questions PTI participation in by-poll,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

Balochistan: Tightened security deployed in the capital during Muharram
On 8 August, Quetta’s DIG Syed Fida Hussain Shah while addressing a press conference stated that 8,000 security personnel, including 2,000 Frontier Corps and Levies personnel, had been deployed in the provincial capital while Pakistan Army would be on standby during the Muharram 10 procession. Besides, helicopters will provide aerial surveillance and mobile service will remain suspended throughout the day. DIG Shah said routes of the procession had been sealed and foolproof security arrangements had been made despite the absence of Muharram-related threats. He also urged the organizers of the processions and congregations to ensure the implementation of SOPs issued by the Balochistan government for Muharram. (Saleem Shahid, “8,000 officials deployed for Ashura security in Quetta,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Delay in Dasu Hydro Power Project to cost up to USD 500 million
On 08 August, a Water and Power Development Authority official informed The News International that WAPDA hydroelectric company has sought an extension in COD (commercial operation date) for three years till 2026-27 from National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) in its petition with the regulator. An officials said, “The project was approved in 2014 with a cost of Rs586 billion. The World Bank has also provided funding, which is equal to 20 per cent of the total cost. Now under the new scenario, the cost overrun during three years is feared to increase by Rs100 billion. This will cause an increase in the cost of the project to almost Rs686 billion.” (Khalid Mustafa, “Rs100bn cost overrun likely to hit Dasu hydropower project,” The News International, 09 August 2022)

INTERNAL
Taliban confirms TTP leader’s killing in Afghanistan
On 8 August, Taliban spokesman Muhamamad Khorasani confirmed the killing of senior Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader Omar Khalid Khorasani and two others in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, TTP officials urged the Taliban government in Afghanistan to investigate the incident and unearth “spies” who could be responsible for the death of senior TTP leaders. (Tahir Khan, “Senior TTP leader Omar Khalid Khorasani killed in Afghanistan, Taliban spokesperson confirms,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

TLP to hold Nazriya-e-Pakistan march from Liaquat Bagh till Faizabad Interchange
On 9 August, The Express Tribune reported that the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has announced that it will hold the Nazriya-e-Pakistan march from Liaquat Bagh till Faizabad Interchange on 13 August. According to TLP leader Pir Inayatul Haq Shah stated that they had given an application to the Islamabad administration more than a month ago seeking permission to hold the conference at the Parade Ground, however, the additional deputy commissioner and the AC has denied permission citing sanctity associated with the month of Muharram. (“TLP to hold Nazriya-e-Pakistan march on Aug 13,” The Express Tribune, 9 August 2022)

PML-N raises disqualification for Imran Khan in Toshkhana Reference
On 8 August, Rana Sanaullah while talking to reporters stated that PML-N is confident that Imran Khan is going to be disqualified in the Toshakhana reference as he has not declared in his assets the amount he received from the sale of state gifts. He further said, “A standard has been set by disqualifying Nawaz Sharif for not receiving salary from his son’s company. If he can be disqualified over it then Imran Khan is certain to face the same fate for not declaring millions of rupees in his assets that he got after selling the Toshakhana gifts.” Last week, the government filed a reference with the ECP seeking disqualification of Khan from holding public office for allegedly acquiring gifts from the Toshakhana state repository. (Zulqernain Tahir, “PML-N certain of Imran’s disqualification in Toshakhana reference,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Army gets appreciation from Bill Gates for Polio drive support
On 8 August, ISPR in a statement said Bill Gates in a conversation with General Bajwa appreciated the Pakistan Army for supporting the national polio drive and ensuring proper reach and coverage of polio campaigns, particularly through the involvement of community leaders. The statement said that matters related to healthcare particularly Pakistan’s commitment to comprehensive polio eradication were discussed. COAS appreciated Gates and his foundation’s efforts towards this noble cause and assured him of continued full cooperation for polio-free Pakistan. (“Bill Gates lauds Army for supporting polio drive,” The Express Tribune, 9 August 2022)

ECONOMY
China contributes 97 per cent of imports from nine regional countries of Pakistan
On 8 August, State Bank of Pakistan released data on trade balance. The country’s exports to Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives account for a small amount of USD 4.590 billion, just 14.43 per cent of Pakistan’s total global exports of USD 31.79 billion in FY22. Whereas, imports from these countries edged up to USD 17.814 billion in FY22 against USD 13.826 billion over the corresponding period last year, an increase of 28.84 per cent. The bulk of the regional exports share, which accounts for 60.58 per cent, is with China while the remaining is for eight countries. As far as imports, imports from China grew 30.03 per cent to USD 17.296 billion during the period under review against USD 13.301 billion over the last year. The bulk of 97.09 per cent imports is coming from China alone while the remaining imports are from other eight countries. As a result of huge imports, Pakistan’s trade deficit with the region expanded during the period under review. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Trade deficit with neighbours widens in FY22,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

ON MILITARY
Lt Gen Faiz Hameed appointed Bahawalpur corps commander: ISPR
On 8 August, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) a press release announced that Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed has been appointed the Bahawalpur corps commander. Previously, he was serving as the Peshawar corps commander after being appointed to the office in October 2021. He had previously served in the ISI as the head of internal security and comes from the army’s Baloch Regiment. His appointment had come at a very crucial time when both external and internal security challenges seemed to be growing. In its press release, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) named Lt Gen Sardar Hassan Azhar Hayat as the new Peshawar corps commander. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant general and appointed as the military secretary in 2020. (“Lt Gen Faiz Hameed appointed Bahawalpur corps commander: ISPR,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

ON ENERGY
OGRA suggests to government to initiate gas sector reforms
On 8 August, Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has asked the government to immediately create a National Gas Transmission Company (NGTC) classified as a “strategic asset” to begin with gas sector reforms and open up the gas market for competition and facilitate bridging a massive demand-supply gap currently facing the country. According to data, supply of natural gas in Pakistan half to that of the demand. In a presentation to government, OGRA discussed challenges to reforms and country’s perceived investment risk, overall economic conditions, and zero private sector participation in midstream and downstream. OGRA has highlighted that optimum capacity utilisation of infrastructure was an important element of gas sector reforms and a third party access (TPA) regime was already in place for the gas pipeline network, but “Sui companies’ fear of losing customers is a bottleneck.” The World Bank (WB) backed gas-sector reforms that envisage the dismantling of two gas utilities; Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Ltd (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd (SSGCL), into at least five public-sector companies. There would then be at least five fresh licences that include a transmission operator and four distribution companies, each having provincial boundaries as their sales areas to supply only domestic gas to residential consumers with the approval of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) after provinces reach consensus. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt asked to begin gas reforms, set up transmission firm,” Dawn, 9 August 2022)

Arifa Noor, Whack-a-mole
Dawn, 9 August 2022
It is worth asking if the PDM will actually achieve what it wants from the changes to NAB, except in the here and now. Its only other net gain has been to cement the perception it removed the PTI government to save its own skin. Whether they will be able to breathe easy for long is another matter altogether.

Dr Niaz Murtaza, The nation at 75
Dawn, 9 August 2022
Since the 1980s, the middle class has made a return to politics but via extremist and populist parties like MQM, TLP and PTI. A move to middle-class politics is seen globally as the main path to improved politics and progress. But in Pakistan, it has actually made politics worse and given extremist and populist rather than mass politics.

Editorial, Beyond the pale
Dawn, 9 August 2022
Mr Khan’s relentless vilification of the opposition in language that ill behoves a national leader has contributed much to the polarisation that manifests itself in the vitriol spewed on social media. When such ugliness is unleashed, everyone at some point suffers the fallout.

Editorial, Celebrate the athlete
Dawn, 9 August 2022
It’s high time Pakistan’s sports authorities realised how elite athletes should be treated. Officials should also let go of the age-old practice of taking the credit…The truth is that Arshad has proved himself worthy of all that. It’s time that athletes like him are celebrated for their achievements.

Editorial, Arshad’s gold
The News International, 9 August 2022
Our athletes like Arshad, Nooh and wrestler Inam Butt have shown that they are among the world’s best and can help end Pakistan’s medal drought in the Olympics. All we need is to fully invest in them and other promising sportspersons. Over the years, we have hardly seen the state take an interest in Pakistani athletes – until any of the athletes brings home a medal.

Mashhood Hassan Azam Awan, Judicial reforms
The News International, 9 August 2022
All court rooms must be connected via the internet and video link to other such courts across the country and even foreign embassies or consulate generals. It will help expedite the disposal of cases which get adjourned due to the unavailability of counsel or witnesses.

Rayan Naseer, Financial crisis
The News International, 9 August 2022
The future depends entirely on whether all stakeholders in Pakistan’s economic landscape, including the business community and political parties, are willing to put aside their differences and come up with a national economic policy that must be implemented regardless of which party comes to power. This will help ensure continuity, restore the confidence of foreign donors and investors, and bring some semblance of hope to a populace in distress.

Shazia Anwer Cheema, Forthcoming energy crisis in Pakistan
The Express Tribune, 9 August 2022
Pakistan is already faced with multidimensional issues because of a lack of storage facilities, no planning, depleting foreign exchange reserves, and the absence of broad-based alternative energy sources… Energy, food, and security will remain in the shadows until they become a ghost and stand right in front of us to receive due attention.

In Brief
INTERNAL 
TTP’s top commander Omar Khalid Khorasani killed in Afghanistan
On 8 August, The Express Tribune reported that a vehicle carrying senior commanders of the TTP, including Omar Khalid Khorasani was targeted by an explosive device in eastern Afghanistan. According to a source, “A vehicle reportedly carrying TTP Mohmand chief Omar Khalid Khorasani, aka Abdul Wali Mohmand, Mufti Hassan and Hafiz Dawlat Khan, was targeted in Sharki village, near Margha, in Bermal district of Paktika province.” Meanwhile, TTP has not yet confirmed these killings.  (Shahabullah Yousafzai, “TTP’s top commander Omar Khalid Khorasani reportedly killed in Paktika blast,” The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022)

Role of money to be regulated by Fafen
On 7 August, The Free and Fair Election Network called upon parliament and political parties to strengthen the regulations on political finance to curtail the role of money in elections. It noted that unchecked use of money in electoral exercises practically deprived the majority of the population of exercising their right to contest elections. In a statement, it asked the parliamentary parties and those outside the Parliament to develop a consensus on critical electoral reforms, including those required to regulate the use of money in elections.It also recommended strengthening the legal framework to regulate expenses incurred during an election by contesting candidates and political parties alike, and timely scrutiny of assets and liabilities submitted by the members of parliament and provincial assemblies.(Iftikhar A.Khan, “Fafen seeks reforms to regulate role of money in politics,”Dawn,8August 2022)

Imran Khan announces a 'counter-fascism' strategy on 13 August against the governement
 On 7 August, Imran Khan said that in order to counter the 'fascist' government led by coalition parties, he will announce a strategy to “counter this fascism” during a rally at Islamabad’s Parade Ground on August 13. The decision to organize what Mr. Khan termed ‘Azadi March’ a day before Independence Day was taken by the PTI leadership on 6 August (Ikram Junaidi, “Imran to spell out ‘counter-fascism’ strategy on Aug 13,”Dawn,8 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Protests laid off for 24 hours by North Waziristan
On 7 August, The elders from the settled districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa approached the Jirga of the Uthmanzai tribe and requested them to end their three-week-long protest against the incidence of targeted killing and to reopen the roads and bazaars. Dozens of loaded vehicles had been stranded on the highway. Trade with Afghanistan via Ghulam Khan Border crossing has also been halted due to the closure of roads in the district. The elders, in accordance with the Pakhtun traditions, also presented sheep to the Jirga as Nanawati, which is a way of seeking reconciliation or mediation. According to the local traditions, Nanawati is always accepted. Officials said that the tribe had accepted the Nanawati and postponed their strike for the next 24 hours. (“North Waziristan tribe puts off protest for 24 hours,” Dawn, 8 August 2022)

Balochistan: Reko Diq Deal gets questioned by Economic Forum President
On 7 August, Balochistan Economic Forum President, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai expressed reservations over the recently signed agreement on Reko Diq between the Balochistan government and Barrick Gold Corporation, saying serious concerns needed to be addressed before implementing the project.He said “More and more voices were now being raised against the compromise solution with the investor and calling for autonomy and mineral rights. Corruption and malpractice in awarding contracts, shares in the income beyond royalties and shares of locals in revenue were also the issues that have hampered projects in the past.” He added that Pakistan had suffered international embarrassment due to the six billion USD penalty imposed on the country for the Reko Diq case. (“Questions raised over Reko Diq deal,” Dawn, 8 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Pakistan’s trade with ASEAN reaches USD 11 billion in 2022
On 7 August, the Chairman ASEAN Committee Islamabad (ACI) Ambassador Nguyen Tien Phong stated that Pakistan’s trade with ASEAN had reached approximately USD 11 billion in the fiscal year 2022. Further, the chairman highlighted that the regional comprehensive economic partnership (RCEP) carried huge economic potential, adding that the paradigm shift from geo-politics to geo-economics in Pakistan would enable the country’s economy to reach milestones. (“Pakistan’s trade with ASEAN topped $11b in 2022,” The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022)

Pakistan to bridge external financing gap of USD four billion, says SBP
On 7 August, Acting Governor SBP Dr Murtaza Syed stated that Pakistan will soon bridge its external financing gap of USD four billion with the help of friendly countries under the IMF condition in the face of huge pressure on foreign currency reserves. Further, he stated that inflation would persist in a higher range for the next 11 to 12 months, so the central bank was seeking an inflation target in the range of 18-20 per cent on an average for the current fiscal year 2022-23. (“Pakistan to soon bridge external financing gap of $4 billion: SBP,” The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022)

ON INDIA
Pakistan rejects India’s statement on OIC
On 7 August, the Foreign Office rejected India’s comments made by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) regarding a statement of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The FO spokesperson said, “No amount of repetition would turn a falsehood into truth. In the interest of justice as well as durable peace and security in South Asia, India must honour its commitment to the Kashmiris and to the world community by faithfully implementing the UNSC resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir dispute.” (“FO rejects New Delhi’s ‘ludicrous comments’ on OIC stance,” Dawn, 8 August 2022)

ON SPORTS
First Gold bagged by Arshad Nadeem in Commonwealth
On 8 August, Dawn reported Pakistan’s first javelin gold by Arshad Nadeem in Birmingham Commonwealth Games. This is Pakistan’s first athletics medal at the games since 1966 and the first javelin gold for the country, it was Pakistan’s second gold in Birmingham. Arshad’s first effort was 86.61 metres.He launched a mark of 90 meters in the penultimate round, becoming only the second Asian to cross the mark after Taiwan’s Chao-Tsun Cheng 91.36 meters. He also broke the Games record of 88.75m by South African Marius Corbett that stood since 1998. (“Arshad Nadeem tears record books to win javelin gold at CWG,” Dawn ,8 August 2022)
 

Huma Yusuf, Climate discourse
Dawn, 8 August 2022
A holistic approach to climate literacy is missing…Pakistan’s challenge will be to develop myriad education and awareness initiatives to target different constituencies based on how they are likely to be affected. These initiatives must be inclusive, region-specific, and focused on adaptation and resilience.

Neda Mulji, Misplaced priorities
Dawn, 8 August 2022
Many higher education institutes function without a cohesive plan for monitoring effort, goal achievement and overall student experience. Those that have plans in place have not been able to sustain them beyond the initial phase. Students are at the heart of the learning environment, yet we haven’t learnt to give them a student-centred environment that can prioritise their academic needs and well-being.

Editorial, An unseemly dispute
Dawn, 8 August 2022
Over the years, the apex court through a series of orders and judgements concentrated the power to steer the commission’s proceedings in the person of the CJP. As friction over recent appointments to the Supreme Court illustrates, that dominant role has become untenable. Chief Justice Bandial must lend an ear to his fraternity.

Editorial, Polio nightmare
Dawn, 8 August 2022
It is extremely unfortunate that the battle against polio and the future of children at home and abroad has become collateral damage in the political bullfights going on in the country, a concern also expressed in the IMB report. When will those wielding power in the country realise that continued political instability is disastrous for any nation’s health?

Maleeha Lodhi, A crisis of trust?
Dawn, 8 August 2022
Trust can be rebuilt if political leaders learn to rise above themselves and give primacy to public concerns over partisan interests. If they also accept that opponents are not enemies to be vilified and vanquished but rivals in political competition. Confidence in institutions too can be built if constitutional restraints and rules are observed in deeds, not just words.

Umair Javed, Unsustainable trajectory
Dawn, 8 August 2022
What is becoming apparent, though, is that this model is increasingly unsustainable — both in terms of people actually buying into it when inflation wipes away basic subsistence, let alone any dreams of the future; and politically — with the occasional crumbs and the frequent coercion being sufficient to keep them in line.
 
Daud Khan, The need to prioritise agricultural development
The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022
Agriculture, particularly small holder agriculture, is the only way we can make progress on national development goals. The government must give due attention both to the reform agenda as well as to design, and above all to the implementation of projects and programs.

Editorial, Accumulated waste
The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022
With the growing threat of climate change, provincial authorities must work with the municipal administration to tackle solid waste management issues. Citizens must also realise their responsibility and dispose of garbage in designated areas to avoid creating landfill sites in residential areas.

Editorial, The ballot roulette
The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022
The experiment to hold bye-polls on nine seats will be an exercise in jeopardy, and lead to more political polarisation as well as creeping instability. The economic chips are already down and a sense of civic unrest is in the air. It is incumbent upon political forces to call it a day and rework a conciliation for resourcing to ballot collectively.

Editorial, Opportunistic politics
The Express Tribune, 8 August 2022
Any doubts that the PML-N is going to sit back and relax are also a misreading since the party has already hinted at legislation that could allow Mian Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan without legal trouble. At the end of it all, electoral politics in the country seems to be just a ruse to either show up a political rival or to get out of a legal pickle. The people win nothing in the face of ‘power shows’ and political opportunism.

In Brief
ON PTI FUNDING CASE
ECP issues notice to Imran Khan, fixes hearing for 23 August
On 5 August, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) issued notices Imran Khan and summoned him on 23 August with regard to the prohibited funding case, Dawn.com reported.  According to the ECP, the case titled “Notice to Chairman Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf in terms of Rule 6 of Political Parties Rules 2006, in compliance of judgement by the commission dated Aug 2 in case title Akbar Sher Babar” has been fixed for hearing on 23 August. Additionally, the ECP also issued a notice to Imran Khan with regard to his disqualification on 16 August. (Malik Asad, “ECP summons Imran over funding case, disqualification,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

FIA constitutes five-member team to oversee PTI funding probe
On 5 August, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) constituted a five-member team to supervise the inquiry teams of FIA’s respective zones investigating matter related to the ECP’s order in the PTI’s prohibited funding case. The monitoring team would be headed by FIA director Mohammad Athar Waheed and would be responsible for coordination with and guidance to the respective inquiry teams in each zone. (Malik Asad, “FIA constitutes team to oversee PTI funding probe,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

Opposition asks Imran Khan to name the “neutrals”
On 5 August, the ruling coalition asked Imran Khan to name the “neutrals” who gave him guarantees over Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja’s appointment. PML-N’s Malik Ahmed Khan and PPP’s Saeed Ghani at separate meetings said, “We demand of you to name the neutrals.” Malik said, “Did Gen Qamar say this to you? And if yes, please have some audacity … have some courage … say it. If Gen Faiz Hameed said this, please take his name and say it.” He added, “where did the neutrals come in? If you, or any member of your party, has the courage, come forward and name them. Also, tell us who do you call neutral – is it the army chief or the DG ISI or the institution”? (“PML-N, PPP ask Imran to name ‘neutrals’,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

INTERNAL
PML-Q intra-party polls suspended by ECP
On 5 August, a four-member bench of the ECP, headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, on a plea filed by PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, restrained the party from holding intra-party polls and adjourned the hearing till August 16. Speaking to reporters after the ECP hearing, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Shujaat’s son, maintained that an “illegal” attempt was made to remove the party president. As the intra-party tussle continued, Shujaat, flanked by Cheema, had held a news conference in Lahore, wherein he termed the reports of rifts within the party “false narratives”, and called for a reunion of the party. (“ECP suspends PML-Q intra-party polls,” The Express Tribune, 6 August 2022)

 ECP redraws constituencies for next elections
On 5 August, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) published the final list of 266 constituencies of the National Assembly and 593 constituencies of the four provincial assemblies for the future general elections, based on the Sixth Population and Housing Census, 2017. The list created 266 general seats for National Assembly; 593 for four provincial assemblies. Accordingly, Punjab had been allocated 141 National Assembly and 297 provincial assembly seats. Sindh has 61 and 130 seats, respectively, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been allocated 45 and 115 general seats, respectively, and Balochistan got 16 and 51 seats, respectively. There would be three general seats for Islamabad in the National Assembly. (“ECP redraws constituencies for next elections,” The Express Tribune, 6 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Punjab: PM Shehbaz Sharif visits flood affected areas in south Punjab
On 5 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited flood-hit areas in south Punjab including Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur. During his visit, he was briefed about the ongoing relief and rehabilitation work in the two areas, including food supply, drinking water and basic health facilities to the displaced people staying at temporary shelters. Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz called for a joint survey by federal and provincial governments to assess the damages.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Sherry Rehman issued warning of more rain after the federal cabinet declared a “monsoon emergency.” She said, “According to the Pakistan Met Department, the country will experience more rains in the coming week. Islamabad, Kashmir, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and Sindh will receive heavy rainfall from August 6 till 9.” (Tariq Saeed Birmani, “PM Shehbaz visits flood-hit areas in south Punjab,” Dawn, 6 August 2022; Jamal Shahid, “Monsoon emergency in place as minister warns of more rains from today,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

Balochistan: Child Marriage Bill stuck halfway for eight years
On 6 August, Dawn reported the pending Child marriage Bill, in Balochistan Assembly for the last eight years in draft state for cabinet approval. A consultation held in collaboration with the Education Youth Empowerment Society, Blue Veins, and Girls Not Brides, decided that a committee comprising all stakeholders would be formed to initiate dialogue with the heads of political parties on the issue of child marriage and reach a consensus on the age limit. The participants expressed serious concern over the negative attitude of religious parties and some other quarters regarding the child marriage bill. Female legislators said that while women MPAs made all possible efforts to reach a consensus on the age limit and persuaded the male MPAs to support the child marriage bill, they faced strong opposition from the religious parties’ legislators on the issue of the age limit. (“Balochistan’s child marriage bill in limbo for eight years,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)
 
Punjab: Protest against dynasty politics of Shah Mahmood Qureshi by PTI
On 5 August, PTI workers held a protest demonstration in Multan against Shah Mehmood Qureshi for giving a party ticket to his daughter Meher Bano Qureshi as a candidate for the by-election in NA-157. The constituency is considered a stronghold and home seat of Shah Mahmood Qureshi. A large number of PTI workers lodged a protest outside the ECP office in Multan against Mr. Qureshi and his family for promoting dynastic politics in the party. They said Shah Mehmood Qureshi had fielded his son Zain in PP-217 Multan and now he had given the ticket to his daughter making them agitate against the family. (Imran Gabol, “By-poll in NA-157: PTI workers protest candidature of Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s daughter,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Sensitive price index seeing increasing trend on a weekly basis
On 5 August, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) data showed that  inflation measured by the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) increased by 0.82 per cent from the previous week, mainly due to a slight increase in perishable food products. Last week, a 3.68pc increase was noted in the SPI, which was the highest since the change of the base year for measuring the SPI. The year-on-year increase in the SPI was 38.63pc, the highest ever recorded. This is the highest increase recorded on a year-on-year (YoY) basis. (“Weekly inflation continues to rise,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

Cash margins on imports reversed by SBP
On 5 August, SBP reversed the cash margins on imports from 100 per cent to 25 per cent and in some cases to zero, showing the strength of confidence of the policymakers hoping for a better outcome of negotiations with the IMF and friendly countries. The current government, which just a few days ago was facing a serious threat of a country’s default on external payments, took the daring step of reducing the cash margin to the lowest level. The claims of the finance minister played a key role in bringing down the dollar value in the currency market, and the speculative part of the exchange rate vanished in a single session as the dollar lost over Rs9 two days ago. (Shahid Iqbal, “SBP reverses cash margins on imports,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
COAS reaches out to UAE, Saudi Arabia for bailout package
On 5 August, DG ISPR confirmed that Gen Bajwa, the chief of army staff (COAS), received a telephone call from UAE President. Pakistan is in talks with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China to provide the necessary funding. When Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif travelled to Saudi Arabia in April, he returned empty-handed as Riyadh had not given any firm assurance. The reason the army chief had to play a role stemmed from the fact that other countries perhaps were not ready to accept the assurances of the civilian leadership. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are particularly working in tandem with the IMF and other Western countries on financial assistance for Pakistan. (Kamran Yousaf, “COAS reaches out to UAE, Saudi Arabia for bailout package,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
Factions in the judiciary to be avoided by amending JCP rules
On 5 August, Senior JCP member Akhtar Hussain wrote a letter to the CJP stating that the issue would not have cropped up if the meeting had not been ‘abruptly terminated’ and a formal vote and final decision were recorded in the minutes at its end. While emphasizing that the fierce and evident division that cropped up within the judicial institution was not in the national interest, Mr. Hussain highlighted that the only solution to avoid factionalism, which was unfortunately prevailing, was to amend the JCP rules and frame more objective, transparent and measurable criteria and processes for the nomination and appointment of judges. He further said that it was necessary to consult all commission members before deciding to release the audio recordings to relax the rules. (Nasir Iqbal, “Changes in JCP rules urged to avoid ‘factions’ in judiciary,” Dawn, 6 August 2022)

Reema Omer, Paterfamilias?
 Dawn, 6 August 2022
The most striking flaw in the SC opinion is that it considers initiation an “act of mere procedure.” The truth could not be more different. Control over initiation has resulted in the CJP acting as a gatekeeper to the Supreme Court, with the power to block the appointment of deserving judges by refusing to recommend their names.

Muhammad Waqar Rana, Judging the process
The News International, 6 August 2022
The appointment and removal procedure of judges requires serious review and reconsideration. Not only the judiciary but other branches of the government should also be taken on board as the real stakeholders here are the people of Pakistan. Numerical strength in the Commission may have momentary winners but it will terminally affect the institution of the judiciary that must be protected and saved as it is the last guarantee for rule of law, rights and constitution.

Editorial, Economic restructuring
Dawn, 6 August 2022
We will not be out of the woods unless we decide to deal with such structural imbalances as very low agricultural and industrial productivity, an unsustainable tax-to-GDP ratio of just above 9pc, poor documentation of the economy, wasteful public sector expenditure, inefficient state-owned businesses and the exclusion of the vast majority of people from the financial system. Sadly, the government has so far shown no signs of addressing these issues.

Editorial, Extinction risks
Dawn, 6 August 2022
In a country like Pakistan — which is only just starting to wake up to the breathtaking diversity of its natural endowments — the findings of the analysis are unlikely to cause much of a stir, except perhaps in the small community of enthusiasts, scientists and researchers studying biodiversity in the country.

Riaz Riazuddin, Our exchange rate woes
Dawn, 6 August 2022
The only prudent course of act­ion for the federal government is to announce a date for general election free from generals and other non-constitutional influences. A credible interim go­­vernment will go a long way in reducing political un­­certainty and pave the way to establish the democr­atic writ of Pakistan’s citizens. This is the only option to lessen exchange rate and other economic woes.

Season of discontent
The Express Tribune, 6 August 2022
Apart from providing instant relief to the distressed, what is needed is an inbuilt mechanism to respond to such calamities. Provision of eatables, bedding and clothing in devastated far-flung areas should take precedence over mere pronouncements of cash disbursals, which in many cases end up in scams. Rehabilitating the catastrophic localities should follow-suit on a war-footing basis.

Rida Tahir, The state and the disappeared
The News International, 6 August 2022
Pakistan must affirm its commitment to end enforced disappearances by ratifying the ICAED. Further, all disappeared persons must be immediately released. Missing persons who have been detained as a result of allegedly committing recognizable crimes must be brought before a court as all citizens are granted the right to a fair trial (Article 10-A of the constitution of Pakistan). Lastly, the government of Pakistan must investigate and prosecute those who are responsible for carrying out enforced disappearances.

Editorial, Defanging NAB
The News International, 6 August 2022
While FIA, the SBP and other bodies are there to keep a check on some forms of financial corruption, perhaps what is really needed is not a toothless accountability mechanism but one that is so robust as to not be swayed by political considerations, or vindictive justice or petty witch-hunts. An accountability body can only be effective if it is seen as non-partisan and scrupulous. But the government and its political actors too wear the same heavy crown.

In Brief
ON PTI FUNDING CASE
PTI withdraws case against CEC; Red Zone sealed to stop protesters from gathering outside ECP
On 4 August, the PTI withdrew a reference against Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja in view of adding evidence and highlight further legal aspects. While announcing the decision, Fawad Chaudhry said that the reference would be filed again after adding more evidence against the CEC, including amendments to the initial verdict and subsequent addition.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan accused the ruling coalition of using the ECP to control the “people of Pakistan.” He said, “They [the incumbent government] bought the loyalties of our people then they used money in an attempt to break our party and after suffering a shock defeat in Punjab by-elections despite rigging attempts, they are now trying to control the people through the ECP.”

On 4 August, authorities partially sealed the Red to stop members of the PTI from coming out on streets and protesting in front of ECP office. While speaking to Dawn, police officials stated that the area was sealed after an alert from the Special Branch of police stated that activists and leaders of PTI would stage a protest in front of ECP. (Malik Asad, “PTI withdraws case against CEC ‘to add more evidence’,” Dawn, 5 August 2022; Munawer Azeem, “Red Zone sealed to stop PTI workers from gathering outside ECP,” Dawn, 5 August 2022; “Imran says ECP being used to control masses,” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2022)

IHC issues notice to speaker and ECP over PTI resignation
On 4 August, the Islamabad High Court issued notices to the NA speaker, its secretary, and the ECP on a petition filed by the PTI against acceptance of its lawmaker’s resignations. The PTI argued that the resignations of all its 123 MNAs had been accepted months ago and the present speaker had no “lawful authority or jurisdiction” to verify the resignations as the former deputy speaker had already approved them. During the hearing, PTI’s counsel Faisal Chaudhry submitted the copy of Mr. Suri’s approval of resignation to the IHC acting chief justice. The party requested the court to direct the speaker to accept all resignations at once. (Malik Asad, Imran Gabol, “Notices to NA speaker, ECP over PTI resignations,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

INTERNAL
NAB passed amidst opposition protests
On 4 August, The National Accountability (Second Amendment) Act 2022 was passed through the Senate after Shahadat Awan moved the motion amid strong protests by the opposition parties who termed the legislation an attempt to turn the NAB into a “toothless” organization.  The motion was opposed as the coalition government wanted to save its leadership by restricting NAB. PTI leader Syed Shibli Faraz said the motion was passed by a government facing serious corruption charges with 60 per cent of its cabinet members on bail. The protest continued and the opposition senators stood up in their seats after a voice vote that allowed the house to consider the bill. They chanted slogans, ripped up copies of the agenda, and gathered around the speaker’s podium to register their disapproval. Subsequently, the opposition members walked out of the house before the bill was passed. (Iftikhar A Khan, “NAB bill passed amid PTI uproar,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

Hamza to see Nawaz Sharif to explain by-elections failure
On 4 August, Hamza Shahbaz arrived in London to ‘give an explanation’ to Nawaz Sharif about the party’s humiliating defeat in the crucial by-polls in Punjab at the hands of PTI. Nawaz Sharif had been told at a party meeting about ‘reasons’ for PML-N’s defeat, he wanted to have an ‘in-person explanation’ in this regard. He was supposed to give explanations for poor coordination with Maryam Nawaz as he had not taken her lawmakers to his cabinet and followed Nawaz’s instructions when he was the chief minister. (Zulqernain Tahir, “Hamza off to London to ‘explain away Punjab by-polls drubbing’,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Grenade attack hurt 14 and claim one life
On 4 August, unknown motorcyclists hurled the grenade at the stalls selling national flags and other decoration items in connection with the upcoming Independence Day. The grenade exploded near the stalls, killing one man and injuring 14 others. (Saleem Shahid, “One killed, 14 hurt in Quetta grenade blast,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Army sepoy and terrorist killed in North Waziristan IBO
On 4 August, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in general area Miran Shah, North Waziristan district, on the reported presence of terrorists in which a sepoy of the Pakistan Army was killed in an exchange of fire with terrorists. According to the ISPR, the terrorist remained actively involved in terror activities against the security forces. On July 23, the security forces apprehended a high-profile terrorist commander and killed three others in two separate IBOs in different areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkwa’s North Waziristan district. (“Army sepoy martyred, terrorist killed in North Waziristan IBO,” The Express Tribune, 5 August 2022)

Sindh: PTI to move Supreme Court to empower LG system ahead of 28 August polls
On 4 August, The PTI challenged before the Supreme Court, the 6 July Sindh High Court verdict of refusing to delay the local government elections and sought immediate compliance of the apex court’s 1 February directions regarding an empowered local government system before 28 August as the second phase LG elections are scheduled to be held on 28 August. The petition argued that the scheme of Article 140-A  of the Constitution and the 1 February judgment of the apex court necessitated a prior and meaningful devolution of political, administrative, and financial powers to local governments before elections were held. The petition, moved jointly by Rabia Azfar Nizami and Sidra Imran, cited the Sindh government and ECP as respondents. (Nasir Iqbal, “PTI moves SC for empowered LG system ahead of Aug 28 polls in Sindh,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister meets with US ambassador
On 4 August, Chief Minister Mahmood Khan in a meeting with the US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome expressed his gratitude to the US for the cooperation extended to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. CM Khan said, “The KP government and people highly value the US cooperation being extended in various fields.” Further, during the meeting the two sides discussed US cooperation with Pakistan on economics development, commerce, educational partnerships, and investments that have helped the region and its people. (“US ambassador meets KP CM,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

Pakistan rejects reports of airspace being used by a US drone strike
On 4 August, the Foreign Office spokesperson rejected reports that Pakistan’s airspace had been used by a US drone strike in Kabul killing al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri. The spokesperson said, “I would refer you to the statement that we have issued (earlier) on this incident, and that is our stated position. There is no evidence of this action having been undertaken using Pakistan’s airspace, so this is something that I can add to that.” (Mariana Baabar, “No Pak airspace used for US drone strike in Kabul: FO,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Government to control imports for the next three months, says Finance Minister
On 5 August, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail stated that the government would control imports for the next three months. He said, “I will not allow imports to increase for three months and, in the meantime, we will come up with a policy. I understand that growth will be reduced for a bit but I have no other choice.” Further, he said, “When there was pressure, we imported a lot of oil and gas. At this time, we have [stock of] 30 days for diesel and petrol. We have furnace oil [supply] for six months. We are very comfortable in terms of our energy security and energy supply, and other obligations. We will control imports for the next four months.” (“Govt to limit imports for next 3 months: Miftah Ismail,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)

PKR appreciates against USD on import restrictions and positive sentiment around IMF deal
On 4 August, the local unit was traded at 224 after gaining 2.15 during intraday trade. It appreciated 2.65 per USD or 1.17 per cent against the dollar to close at 226.15. July trade numbers reduced pressure on the rupee, improving the outlook for the country’s fragile current account balance. The country’s trade deficit also fell 47 per cent month-on-month to USD 2.6 billion in July, driven by a drop in imports. Total imports dropped to USD 4.9 billion in July 2022 from USD 7.9 billion in the previous month, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported. (Riaz Andy, “PKR to Dollar: Rupee appreciates further as Pakistan slowly recovers from currency crisis,” The News International, 5 August 2022)

Restrictions imposed on supplementary grants for tighter fiscal controls
On 4 August, the Ministry of Finance in an office memorandum to all the government ministries, divisions and related departments explained the extreme conditions to be fulfilled by the principal accounting officers (PAOs) of all ministries and divisions before seeking supplementary allocations. For ensuring tight fiscal control, the government has put restrictions on technical supplementary grants (TSGs) in the first quarter and imposed a ban on supplementary expenditure, both for developmental and current expenditure, throughout the current fiscal year, except in extreme and exceptional cases. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt puts tighter fiscal controls in place,” Dawn, 05 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
‘Anti- Institution’ drive gets questioned by SC
On 4 August, a two-bench Supreme Court bench took up the petition of violation of fundamental rights violation against PTI leadership for an alleged hate campaign targeting armed forces,, the Supreme Court and the ECP. The court asked the council to convince it that the present matter was an issue of public importance and that it could intervene under Article 184(3) against the private persons on the grounds of public interest. The court observed that it could invoke Article 204 whenever it deemed appropriate by initiating notice and taking action. The petition argued that it was in public knowledge that after his ouster as Imran Khan had been issuing provocative, derogatory statements in his interviews, at political rallies, and on social media which harms the good reputation of the national institutions. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC questions plea over ‘anti-institution’ drive,” Dawn, 5 August 2022)
 
ON GILGIT-BALTISTAN
JIT formed and security tightened after sectarian violence on 30 July
On 4 August, police tightened security arrangements in Gilgit amid tension in the city after violence claimed two lives and left 22 people injured last week. FIR had been registered under anti-terrorism law and raids were under way to arrest the remaining suspects. Pillion riding on motorcycles has been banned in Gilgit and 4G mobile internet will remain suspended till Ashura. Home Secretary Iqbal Hussain Khan said all Muharram processions across Gilgit-Baltistan were being monitored. (Jamil Nagri, “Security tightened in Gilgit,” Dawn, 05 August 2022)

ON INDIA
PM Shehbaz accuses India of using "unbridled force" in Jammu and Kashmir
On 5 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif via Twitter accused India of using "unbridled force" in Jammu and Kashmir. He said, "Today marks the third sombre anniversary of India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019 aimed at changing the internationally recognised disputed status of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and altering the demographic structure of the occupied territory,"  adding, "The Jammu & Kashmir dispute has been a battle of hope against overwhelming odds, of courage against fear & of sacrifice against tyranny. Today, we pay rich tributes to all the martyrs of IIOJK for their ultimate sacrifice & to their families for their resolve & courage." Meanwhile, Pakistanis observed the "Yaum-e-Istehsal" across the country in retaliation to the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A of the Indian constitution on 5 August 2019. (“Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir: PM Shehbaz condemns India's use of 'unbridled force' in IIOJK,” Dawn, 5 August 2022; “In support of Kashmiris Pakistan observes Yaum-e-Istehsal today,” The News International, 5 August 2022)

 Shahzad Chaudhry, When equivalence inflicts its own cost
The Express Tribune, 5 August 2022
The Constitution must be the touchstone for this transitory period even if it partially conforms to the structures laid out in it. The military-legal system should support such transitional arrangement as a one-time measure under most challenging socio-economic and security environment.

Editorial, PTI in the dock
The News International, 5 August 2022
At the end of the day, the ballot box – and not a court of law – should be giving the ultimate verdict. This may be lost on all political actors though, who in the frenzy to become the new blue-eyed darlings of the system seem to have forgotten even recent history.

Faisal Bari, Life is a struggle
Dawn, 5 August 2022
Maintaining price stability is, in many ways, even more important than growth. Especially in situations where the state does not offer any safety net or services to the vulnerable. The situation, even for lower middle income-level earners, is very precarious right now. It is hard to see how we are going to get out of this one.

Zafar U. Ahmed, Economic governance framework
Dawn, 5 August 2022
Unstable governments with circumscribed authority cannot overcome interest groups. How far such a governance framework can be agreed upon and then implemented will determine the long-term economic viability of the country. A strong and prosperous country reflects upon its citizens as well as state institutions.

Editorial, Gutting NAB
Dawn, 5 August 2022
The haste with which the government is proceeding is giving strength to criticism that it is only interested in protecting its leaders’ interests. This cannot be condoned. If it does not want NAB around, so be it; but the government must share alternative plans for how it will put an end to the corruption endemic in our state apparatus.

Editorial, More conditions, what?
The Express Tribune, 5 August 2022
What political and geo-strategic cost it will entail is anybody’s guess, specifically keeping in view the upheavals in the region. Pakistan’s economic format is down and out, and it necessitates drastic measures to rehabilitate it into normal breathing space. Loans and conditionalities, coupled with ad-hocism, have pushed it at the cliff.

Editorial, Rupee recovery
The Express Tribune, 5 August 2022
Still, bringing the overall deficit under control is in itself an achievement, as the previous PTI government seemed unable to control it, even before fuel prices skyrocketed. While an ideal situation would have seen exports rise, ever so slightly, at this point, balancing the books remains the priority.

Shaheer M Ashraf, Unravelling the Kashmir knot
The Express Tribune, 5 August 2022
Pakistan must re-evaluate its Kashmir policy by attempting to de-escalate tensions with India and normalise relations. While this may not be possible in the short term due to India’s contemporary political landscape, it is a course of action that must be pursued when the time is right. Military involvement on both sides of the border should be decreased.

Editorial, Plastic menace
Dawn, 5 August 2022
Moreover, Pakistan has a serious solid waste management problem; as per UN figures, plastic consists of nearly 9pc of municipal solid waste. It makes sense then to recycle waste…In Sindh’s case, the federal minister for climate change should ensure her party, which rules the province, enforces the ban, while a national plan to fight plastic pollution is the need of the times.

In Brief
ON PTI FUNDING CASE
“Imran Khan should be made an example of,” says PDM chief
On 3 August, the PDM coalition decided to submit a reference against Imran Khan based on Article 62 (1)(f) of the Constitution, following the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision in the prohibited funding case against the party. Further, Maulana Fazlur Rehman demanded that “Imran Khan should be made an example of,” adding, “A reference should be filed against Imran Khan as he is no more Sadiq and Amin (truthful and honest).” He added that whether it is Imran Khan or Dr Arif Alvi, there should be immediate resigning because they have proven to be criminals, adding that “all the political parties had decided to initiate action” against Imran Khan and his party as they were now “proven criminals.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Imran be made an ‘example’ of, says PDM,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

‘Neutrals’ vouched for CEC Raja, says Imran Khan
On 3 August, Imran Khan in an interview with BBC Urdu said that the “neutrals” had guaranteed that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja was the right man for the job. He said, “We made a major mistake by accepting this man. The neutrals did not say anything but Sikandar Sultan Raja did not let EVMs [electronic voting machines] come on top of his agenda,” adding that Raja’s name came up during the deadlock for the post of the CEC during his tenure. Further, he said that the PTI would approach the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) against the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and CEC. (“‘Neutrals’ had vouched for CEC Raja: Imran,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

Tighten security outside ECP office ahead the protests
On 4 August, shipping containers were placed ahead of the PTI’s planned protest outside the Election Commission of Pakistan’s office. The PTI, which has demanded Sikandar Sultan Raja’s resignation, is scheduled to stage a protest outside the electoral office. The PTI’s protest was called in anticipation of the prohibited funding verdict. Imran Khan said only a parliamentary delegation of the PTI would go to the ECP office and convey that the party had lost confidence in the electoral body but the authorities could not take chances hence doubled the security to the place. In a statement, Islamabad SSP said that no one would be allowed to enter the Red Zone. He said that 2,000 officials from Islamabad police, Frontier Corps and Rangers had been deployed. (Shakeel Qarar, “Barricades in place, security beefed up ahead of PTI’s protest outside ECP,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

INTERNAL
ANP protests Imran’s ‘indecent’ remarks against Pakhtuns
On 3 August, Awami National Party leaders and workers on demonstrated against PTI chairman Imran Khan for allegedly using indecent remarks against Pakhtuns. ANP spokesperson MPA Samar Haroon Bilour, former MPA Yasin Khalil, Sana Gulzar Advocate, Sher Rehman, trade leader Mujabur Rehman and large number of workers gathered in front of the Peshawar Press Club to register their protest. Bilour said Imran Khan did not know the Pakhtun culture and tradition. She also criticised PTI government for what she said turning Peshawar, known to be the city of flowers, into heaps of garbage with poor cleanliness and sanitation system. (“ANP protests Imran’s ‘indecent’ remarks against Pakhtuns,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Lieutenant General Asif Ghafoor appointed as the Commander XII Corps (Quetta)
On 3 August, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement said that Lieutenant General Asif Ghafoor has been appointed as the Commander XII Corps (Quetta), replacing Lt Gen Sarfraz Ali, who was killed in a helicopter crash. Lt Gen Ghafoor previously served as the ISPR head. (Naveed Siddiqui, “Former DG ISPR Asif Ghafoor appointed Commander XII Corps,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: PM visits flood hit areas ensuring rehabilitation
On 4 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the collective efforts by federal and provincial governments and departments were necessary to ensure the early rehabilitation of people affected by flash floods and torrential rains. He visited the flood affected regions of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and lauded the efforts of the NDMA and provincial disaster management authorities for striving to rescue and relieve the affected population. During the briefing, he was told that the floods had damaged around 11,000 households in the district and caused two deaths besides injuring seven others and has announced compensation for the same. (“PM urges joint efforts for early rehabilitation of flood-hit areas” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Rupee stronger innings against the dollar brings it to 223 per USD
On 3 August, the rupee closed at 228.80 after recording its highest single-day gain against dollar in the interbank trade. The dollar had slumped 4.19 per cent against the rupee, the highest since 2 November 1998, when the greenback fell by PKR 5.10. The latest trade numbers showing a decline in import numbers also helped in appreciation of the rupee along with better sentiment on Pakistan getting closer to securing tranche from IMF. (Riaz Andy, “Dollar free fall continues, trades at Rs223 in interbank,” The News International, 4 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
Woman’s right to be “maintained” by her husband, says Supreme Court
On 3 August, the Supreme Court ruled that  a woman’s right to be “maintained” by her husband was absolute under Islamic law as long as she remains “faithful and discharges her own matrimonial obligations.” This statement was made during the hearing of an appeal moved by Haseenullah against a March 9, 2020, Peshawar High Court (PHC) ruling. Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah in a written judgement said, “A Muslim husband is bound to maintain his wife even if no term in this regard is agreed to between them at the time of marriage or she can maintain herself out of her own resources,” adding, “This is a male-dominated society; men since ages have always been more concerned about their rights by using religion for their own convenience, especially in matrimonial matters, but forget religion when it comes to their duty and obligation towards women.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Wife’s right to be ‘maintained’ by husband is absolute: SC,” Dawn, 4 august 2022)

EXTERNAL
Japan and Pakistan sign an agreement for Multan drainage system
On 3 August, Ambassador of Japan Wada Mitsuhiro and Mian Asad Hayaud signed an agreement under which the Japanese government will provide USD nine million to Pakistan for upgrading the mechanical system for sewerage and drainage services in Multan. The project will address urban flooding issues in Multan by upgrading the sewerage equipment to effectively maintain the sewer pipes and channels for sustainable sanitation in the region. At the signing ceremony, Parliamentary Vice-Minis­ter for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Honda Taro pledged to take efforts to strengthen the friendship between the two countries in the sectors of  sanitation,health, disaster prevention and expanding trade  and investment. (Amin Ahmed, “Japan to provide $9m for upgrading Multan drainage system,” Dawn, 4 August 2022)

China provides another SAFE deposit for an amount of over USD 2 billion
On 4 August, The News International reported that China has rolled over USD two billion loan in State Administration Foreign Exchange (SAFE) deposits for cash-strapped Pakistan’s economy amid dwindling foreign exchange reserves. So far in totality, China has rolled over a USD 4.3 billion loan, including USD 2.3 billion in commercial loans and now USD two billion in SAFE deposits, making it possible for Islamabad for bridging the external financing gap with a whopping amount of USD 35.9 billion for the current fiscal year. However, Pakistani authorities have been awaiting for confirmation from friendly countries, especially from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Qatar, and the UAE for bridging the financing gap of USD four billion identified by the IMF. (Erum Zaidi and Mehtab Haider, “China rolls over $2bn loan for a year,” The News International, 4 August 2022)

OPEC Fund signs a loan worth USD 72 million for the Mohmand dam
On 3 August, the government signed an agreement with the OPEC Fund for International Development for the provision of USD 72 million to the country for the Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project. In addition to generating 1,300 megawatts of electricity, it will enhance Pakistan’s water storage capacity by 1,293-million-acre feet (MAF), provide food security buffer, supply 13.32 cubic of clean drinking water to the residents of Peshawar and create more than 6,000 direct job opportunities for the local people. In March this year, the government had secured a USD 180 million loan from IDB for the project. However, it was still seeking over USD 500 million to bridge the financing gap. IDB President Dr Muhammad Al Jasser had said back then that the bank took pride in working alongside its partners to support Pakistan in a strategic project of national importance. (“Govt secures $72m more for Mohmand Dam,” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2022)

ON SPORTS
Gold for weightlifting bagged by Nooh in CWG
On 3 August, Pakistani weightlifter Nooh breaks the CWG records for in the +109 kg weightlifting event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Nooh brought a bronze medal home from 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast and before that he has been consistently winning silver and bronze medals at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships from 2015 till 2017.Nooh said, “I can say that the stakes for the Commonwealth Games are so high for me because I want all these years of hard work in 12 to 14 years of my life -- that I have put in to at least show here. I want to win the Olympics too. I would have if I was fit enough, but the bottom line is to win and make my country proud, to finally see better results.”(“Pakistani weightlifter Nooh breaks CWG records for gold,” The Express Tribune, 4 August 2022)

Shiza Malik, Co-opting causes
Dawn, 4 July 2022
Corporations seeking to champion women’s rights can use their massive resources to develop products that are not injurious to human health and use packaging that does not pollute the planet…The responsibility of a profit-making enterprise is to pay tax and ensure fair trade and sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. Anything else is just marketing eyewash.

Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Redefining disasters
Dawn, 4 July 2022
The National Disaster Management Authority is a focal agency for implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. The NDMA and its provincial counterparts will fail again and again — unless district disaster management authorities are notified and empowered to support local governments in climate-resilient development.

Editorial, To ban or not to ban?
Dawn, 4 July 2022
The party and its chairman, whose boastful narrative about their being the only entities concerned with accountability and transparency in Pakistan, now stand rudely exposed. Their opponents can use that as ammunition to build a political case to take to the public, but they must trust the democratic process to have the final say.

Editorial, Improving fundamentals
Dawn, 4 July 2022
It is unrealistic to expect the current administration to undertake economic reforms when much of its effort is focused on firefighting day-to-day problems to avoid defaulting. But once the IMF programme is in place, and other multilateral and bilateral assistance starts flowing in over the next few months, it will be time for the government to begin the real work and execute reforms for long-term, sustainable growth.

Imran Jan, No country for well-wishers
The Express Tribune, 4 July 2022
The Zardari and Sharif families stuffed the cash in bags that were outbound. Imran Khan, however, brought the money home. Secondly, the two corrupt czars mentioned above stole the foreign bound cash. Imran Khan earned the inbound money abroad. Even if the supposedly misappropriation of cash for charitable causes is taken into consideration, the money has landed in Pakistan instead of ending up in Swiss accounts.

Editorial, More conditions, what?
The Express Tribune, 4 July 2022
What political and geo-strategic cost it will entail is anybody’s guess, specifically keeping in view the upheavals in the region. Pakistan’s economic format is down and out, and it necessitates drastic measures to rehabilitate it into normal breathing space. Loans and conditionalities, coupled with ad-hocism, have pushed it at the cliff.

Ali Uzair Bhandari, Structured discretion, unstructured courts
The News International, 4 July 2022
The Supreme Court currently has over 50,000 pending cases. Within the next few weeks, the Supreme Court will have five vacancies out of 17 seats, nearly one-third of its total capacity. There are no signs of an emerging consensus that will allow these seats to be filled. But this is a stalemate our justice system can ill-afford.

Editorial, Economic buoyancy
The News International, 4 July 2022
They must spare us the usual election-year political shenanigans involving populist decisions and policy slippages and stick to the reform agenda Pakistan has signed up to. Absent a realization of the importance of the economy’s structural health on the part of our rulers, that is our only hope of charting a sustainable path to low inflation, respectable growth, and hopefully, at some point, even prosperity.

In Brief
ON PTI FUNDING CASE
PTI received funding from prohibited sources, says ECP
On 2 August, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) unanimous ruled that the PTI did receive prohibited funding and issued a notice to the party. The Commission in its verdict claimed that the PTI received funds from Arif Naqvi, 34 foreign nationals and 351 foreign-based companies. Additionally, the PTI took ownership of eight accounts, kept 13 hidden and failed to mention three. The commission also found form-1 submitted by Imran Khan to be “grossly inaccurate.” Further, the commission issued a notice to the PTI seeking an explanation on why the fund should not be confiscated.

Following the verdict, Fawad Chaudhry said that most of the money was from overseas Pakistanis. He said, “I don’t understand why the PML-N, the JUI and the PPP have declared overseas Pakistanis the enemy. We consider overseas Pakistanis to be the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and will continue to rely on them for our funding,” adding that this was never a case of “foreign funding” and this had been proven with the ECP’s decision and claimed that the accounts that were supposedly undeclared were not directly linked with Imran Khan.

Previously, on 1 August, Imran Khan called for protests outside the ECP’s office in Islamabad for 4 August to demand Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja’s resignation. Further, he reiterated that during his government’s they tried their best to introduce Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) to ensure "free and transparent elections" however, "But the CEC sabotaged our hard work to secure the system of rigging for two parties (PPP and PML-N)." (Fahad Chaudhry, “Prohibited funding was taken by PTI, ECP rules,” Dawn, 2 August 2022; “Imran issues fresh call for protest outside ECP office in Islamabad on August 4,” Dawn, 2 August 2022)

POLITICS
Shujaat calls for the reunion of the PML-Q
On 1 August, PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat reached out to Chaudhry Parvez Elahi asking him to put an end to differences. While addressing a press conference he stated that that “false narratives” were being spread regarding the split within the party, added that those close to Elahi issued “false” statements. Further, he explained the reasons that led to discord between him and Elahi and called for the reunion of the party that has seen a clear divide over the election of the Punjab chief minister polls. (Kalbe Ali, “Shujaat extends olive branch to Elahi,” Dawn, 2 August 2022)

INTERNAL
Another set of TTP talks concludes in Kabul
On 1 August, a 12-member Pashtun Jirga concluded another round of talks with the leaders of the TTP Kabul in a bid to resolve the issues regarding the merger of tribal areas with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and modalities for the return of the members. The negotiations according to the barrister Muhammad Ali did not fail but continued as meetings are still happening with the TTP and the officials. He said that “both the sides have shared their reservations and are trying to address them.”(Tahir Khan, “Pashtun Jirga concludes another round of talks with TTP in Kabul,” Dawn, 2 August 2022)

Portal launch in Pakistan by TikTok
On 1 August, TikTok launched its creator portal in Pakistan @tiktokcreatorspakistan, as a one-stop shop for educational resources on content creation for creators on its platform. The portal is a series of videos that will provide guidance, tips, and tricks to help creators maximize their in-app diversifying content creation on the platform. (Shahzia Hasan, “TikTok Creator Portal launched in Pakistan,” Dawn, 02 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Assembly passes resolution for removing ECP chief passed
On 1 August, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assembly passed a resolution, moved by PTI expressing serious reservations about the ECP and demanded the immediate resignation of the ECP commissioner and the members. Finance Minister Taimur Salaam Jhagra moved the resolution which was passed with a majority and there was a disruption in house proceedings as the opposition members were not allowed to speak on the merits or demerits of the resolution which was against the parliamentary norms and traditions. (“KP Assembly passes resolution for removal of ECP chief,” Dawn, 2 August 2022)

Balochistan: Flood devastation continues in many parts of the country killing dozens
On 1 August, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his anger over the non-provision of food and other facilities to the flood-affected families and ordered strict actions against the provincial administration as 27 people were reported to lose their lives in the torrential rains. Several incidents of river flooding, damaged roads, crops and public properties were reported in Gilgit and other parts of the country. During his visits to the affected area, PM Sharif affirmed that federal and provincial governments had been making all-out efforts to provide help to the affected population. (Tariq Naqash, Jamil Nagri, “Dozens more killed as flood devastation continues,” Dawn, 2 August 2022)

ECONOMY
Investor sentiment improving on long-term sovereign bonds, rupee to strengthen soon: News International Report
On 02 August, quoting a senior official, The News International reported that with the revival of the IMF programme, clouds of default hovering above the policymakers will evaporate for a short term, as Pakistan will have to generate its ability to raise non-debt creating inflows in order to avert risks of default on permanent basis. The official informed that Pakistan paid outstanding USD 40 million on account of repayment of Islamic Sukuk bond. Pakistan paid all its outstanding repayments in July 2022 and obligations in the future will be repaid on time, the official added. Pakistan’s dollar-denominated sovereign bonds have stabilised after investor sentiment improved and the local currency bounced back, changing the view the country is in danger of defaulting on its debt amid shrinking foreign reserves The official gave two reasons behind currency depreciation, first, global surge in the US dollar and second, domestic fundamentals like widening current account deficit. The financing needs stem from a current account deficit of around USD10 billion and principal repayments on external debt of around USD 24 billion. (Erum Zaidi, Mehtab Haider, “Sukuk bond: Pakistan repays $40m,” The News International, 2 August 2022)
 
Inflation recorded highest since global recession in Pakistan: PBS
On 01 August, consumer inflation accelerated to its highest in 14 years in July on runaway food prices, stoked by eroding rupee. Consumer price index (CPI) inflation rose to 24.93 per cent in July, whereas in July 2021, it was recorded at 8.4 per cent, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistic. On a month-on-month basis, CPI-based inflation increased 4.3 per cent in July 2022 as compared to an increase of 6.3 per cent in the previous month, and an increase of 1.3 per cent in July 2021. Despite State Bank’s 800 basis points discount rate hike in FY22, from 7 per cent in July 2021 to 15 per cent now, inflation is skyrocketing. The central bank is once again preparing for another rate hike amid a surge in global commodity prices, rising import bills and falling currency value. Over the previous month, electricity charges increased 39.35 per cent, motor fuel 7.35 per cent, construction input items 3.18 per cent, washing soap/ detergents/ match box 2.45 per cent, cotton cloth 2.21 per cent, liquefied hydrocarbons 1.99 per cent, electrical appliances 1.48 per cent, plastic products 1.40 per cent and furniture and furnishing 1.30 per cent. (Israr Khan, “Inflation jumps to 14-year high of 24.9pc,” The News International, 2 August 2022)

JUDICIARY
Supreme Court does not interfere but extend its support in effective discharging of its duties
On 02 August, Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial Monday said the Supreme Court (SC) while heading a two-member bench hearing a case pertaining to cancellation of registration of a medical student observed that the apex court will not do the work of other institutions, but will enable them to discharge its duties effectively. He said: “We have done the same during the recently held by-elections. We did not interfere in the affairs of any institution but backed them and consequently fair, free and transparent elections took place.” (“SC doesn’t interfere: CJP,” The News International, 02 August 2022)
 
PPP Senator brings bill to strengthen PC in the appointment of superior court judges
On 01 August, Senator Farooq Hamid Naek tabled a bill in the Senate that seeks a constitutional amendment to Article 175A of the Constitution, which deals with the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court, high courts and the Federal Shariat Court. According to the statement of object and reasons, Naek stated that pursuant to the 18th Constitutional Amendment, appointments in the superior courts are processed through two forums: Judicial Commission (JC) and Parliamentary Committee (PC). The only new thing being recommended is ‘Initiation Committees’ for the initiation of nomination(s) for the appointment of judges of the high courts. He said that the PC members across the party lines had apprehensions that the role of the Committee and its members has been marginalized to the extent of elimination and the committee has become a mere post office. The only new thing being recommended is ‘Initiation Committees’ for the initiation of nomination(s) for the appointment of judges of the high courts. (“Senate bill seeks to amend Article 175A,” The Express Tribune, 02 August 2022)

Arifa Noor, Karma and the economy
Dawn, 2 August 2022
The political parties need to first create an internal consensus on what needs to be done to fix the economy and the price those in power will have to pay before they hold forth on charters and economic consensus. The internal criticism directed against the likes of Miftah Ismail and Hafeez Shaikh is proof enough of that.

Editorial, Ceding space to TTP
Dawn, 2 August 2022
If the TTP abides by the state’s rules of engagement, then talks may have a chance of succeeding. But the militants cannot be allowed to set the agenda, with the state meekly agreeing to all their unreasonable demands.

Editorial, Taking stock
Dawn, 2 August 2022
If the prime minister really wants to know why there isn’t enough food, water or medicine in relief camps after two months of continuous devastation, it is most likely because the provincial government and administration both either failed to heed repeated warnings of the impending disaster or chose to ignore them. The callous disregard for the suffering of the people in either case is quite apparent.

Editorial, Renewable energy plan
Dawn, 2 August 2022
The proposed plan should also incorporate strict quality control parameters for manufacturers, pass on the price benefit of local production to consumers and make cheaper financing available for rooftop solar systems.

Tahmasp R Razvi, A bench-mark
The Express Tribune, 2 August 2022
All political parties must respect the courts. Instead as members of the legislature, they should introduce laws or amend the existing laws whereby the formation of benches becomes more transparent. Unfortunately, our legislators are busy fighting each other and have forgotten their foremost duty.

Editorial, Impartial electoral body
The Express Tribune, 2 August 2022
The election body has a primitive role to play in public representation. It goes without saying that the maturity of democracy rests in an invincible and powerful election commission. As the country inches closer towards general elections, an impartial electoral body is indispensable.

Dr Ayesha Razzaque, All business as usual at the HEC
The News International, 2 August 2022
he PDM while in the opposition had said all the right things on so many problematic policies and decisions taken by the PTI government in the education sector – the SNC, the poorly thought through amendments to the HEC Ordinance, the near stagnant education budget, and a few others.

Editorial, High on inflation
The News International, 2 August 2022
The revival of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) should then allow Pakistan access to international financial markets and pacify domestic markets once more. His detractors may then be thankful for Dr Miftah Ismail’s steady hand at the tiller at this trying hour.

In Brief 
ECONOMY
The country's economic challenges are temporary, says FM; IMF to disburse the next tranche of USD 1.2 billion
On 31 July, the Finance Ministry and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said in a joint statement: “The formal [IMF] Board meeting to disburse the next tranche of USD 1.2 billion is expected in a couple of weeks. At the same time, macroeconomic policies—both fiscal policy and monetary policy—have been appropriately tightened to reduce demand-led pressures and rein in the current account deficit.” According to the statement, an extra USD 4 billion cushion was planned over the next 12 months. Finance Minister while responding to a question clarified that his intention was to save Pakistan from default and inflation and growth were not his main priority. The statement added that the rupee had overshot temporarily but it was expected to appreciate over the next few months. (“Country’s economic woes are ‘temporary’,” The Express Tribune, 01 August 2022)

On 01 August, Dawn quoting diplomatic sources reported that International Monetary Fund (IMF) is likely to start the process for releasing the seventh and eighth tranches of a $6 billion loan programme for Pakistan. The sources said Pakistan tried to get the board’s approval before the summer recess (Aug 1 to 12) and sent several officials to Washing­ton to persuade the Fund to do so. But other sources said Pakistan had been warned “not to allow the political situation to go out of hand”. The government had further been told that “street violence and protests by the opposition or a government crackdown on PTI leaders can have a negative impact on the deal”. (Anwar Iqbal, “IMF likely to begin tranche release process this week,” Dawn, 01 August 2022)

ECC approves taxes up to PKR 30 billion to avoid default on oil and gas
On 31 July, at a special meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet presided over by Finance Minister Miftah, the government decided to impose additional taxes  to avoid international default on oil and gas payments and keep the staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) intact. It also approved a supplementary budget grant of PKR 30 billion for immediate payment to state-run Pakistan State Oil (PSO) facing international payment obligations of about PKR 270 billion till August 28. While the petroleum division made a pitch for total PKR 133 billion payments, the finance ministry explained that there was “no budgetary allocation in current fiscal year” for this account; therefore, financial support has to be arranged through a supplementary grant. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Rs30bn taxes to be imposed to save PSO from default,” Dawn, 01 August 2022)

EXTERNAL
Formal Consent to COAS to speak to the US on IMF
On 01 August, The News International reported General Qamar Javed Bajwa approached the US administration with the permission of Shehbaz Sharif for early disbursement of funds from the IMF. The PM and the Army chief had a discussion on the economic situation and during the same discussion, certain measures were agreed to be taken and other steps to secure the country from a crisis limitation. According to the International media report, General Bajwa telephoned Wendy Sherman and appealed to her to expedite the 1.2 billion USD by the IMF. (Ansar Abbasi,” PM Shahbaz Sharif permitted COAS to speak to US administration on IMF,” The News International, 1 August 2022)

INTERNAL
Massive Robbery of assets in PSM, demand for probe issued
On 01 August, The Express Tribune reported that the ministry of industries and production called the FIA to start an immediate probe into the revelation of assets worth Rs 10 billion being stolen from Pakistan Steel Mills in collusion with some officers in the management. They said that the main plant was not being protected from thieves, which was impossible without the security personnel's knowledge. The matter appeared mainstream as the Labor union of PSM wrote to the minister and demanded immediate action to protect the national assets from the l voters. (Kashif Hussain, “FIA tasked to probe ‘massive theft’ at ailing Steel Mills,” The Express Tribune, 1 August 2022)

PROVINCES
Balochistan: Two Earthquakes in a row strike the coast near Pasni
On 31 July, according to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre, two consecutive moderate earthquakes struck off the coast near Pasni in rain hit Balochistan. The first with 5.6 magnitude and the second with 5 magnitude at 6:42 pm and 6:52 pm casualties or infrastructural damages were reported as the area was flooding from the torrential rains and authorities makes ways to rescue thousands of people who have been left displaced due to flooding in many districts of Balochistan. (Qazi Hassan, “Consecutive earthquakes strike the coast near Pasni; no casualties reported,” Dawn, 1 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Pakistan –TTP comes to an end without results
On 01 August, The Express Tribune reported that the talks between Pakistan and TTP have reached a deadlock as the militant group has refused to budge from its demand for the reversal of the merger of erstwhile Fata with the KP Province. In the latest push, Pakistan sent a second delegation in a week to break the stalemate following the visit of the delegation of ulemas on Saturday but had a deadlock as the prospects were not clear.(Kamran Yousuf, “Taliban-brokered TTP talks end in deadlock,” The Express Tribune, 1 August 2022)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Thai Buddhist monk and others visit the Peshawar Museum
On 31 July, a Buddhist Monk Arayawangso along with 20 followers from Thailand visited the Peshawar Museum along. Arayawangso who is going to write a book by researching the Buddhist relics in Taxila, Havelian, Swat and Peshawar said, “I want to tell the world that the smiles of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Thailand match each other.” Further, Dr Abdul Samad, the director archaeology and museums said that in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, there were holy places of six religions of the world. “Like the people of Peshawar, the food of Peshawar is also of high quality.” (“Thai Buddhist monk visits Peshawar Museum,” Dawn, 1 August 2022) 

Punjab: Thirteen people cut off constable’s body parts in the name of honour
On 1 August, Dawn reported that thirteen people cut off the nose, both ears and a lip of a constable in the name of honour in the Sajjowal area of Jhang in Punjab. According to the constable’s family member, the accused had suspicion that Qasim had illicit relations with his wife. However, previously, the police station had registered a case against Constable Qasim under sections 354 (assault on woman), 384 (extortion) and 292 (pornography) of the PPC. (“Constable’s body parts cut off in name of honour in Jhang,” Dawn, 1 August 2022)              

Maleeha Lodhi, Political meltdown
Dawn, 1 August 2022
Confrontation between the coalition government and PTI and the lack of dialogue between them rules out negotiations to resolve the ongoing crisis. Both look towards the courts to settle essentially political issues and conflicts. This may not be new in the country’s chequered political history but is now occurring with a frequency that underlines the breakdown of politics amid escalating tensions.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Institutions crumbling?
Dawn, 1 August 2022
Pakistan had been managing its affairs in a unique fashion and the state’s overdependence on one or two state institutions over the past many years created serious issues for the growth, competence and morale of the other institutions. Serious soul-searching is required to address the grave matters.

Editorial, Musical chairs
Dawn, 1 August 2022
The recent change of government in Punjab has triggered another round of musical chairs, with the provincial bureaucracy once again being upturned based on the whims of its new political overlords.. The system must change to provide greater security of tenure to professional officers who simply want to focus on discharging their responsibilities, and to create greater disincentives and penalties to weed out civil servants who prioritise their own interests over their responsibility to the state.

Amal Hashim, Resilient or resigned?
Dawn, 1 August 2022
Karachi is by no means a pretty and aesthetic city and the increasing gap between the rich and poor is huge. However, all this is limited to hardly two to three per cent of Karachiites, and is largely concentrated in District South. The rest of the city just puts up with the grind of everyday life. It is perhaps necessary to have another word for this city rather than resilience. Without this crucial change in narrative, we will keep living in a world of make-believe.

Editorial, Old habits die hard
Dawn, 1 August 2022
The army chief’s recent foray into economic diplomacy may have been driven by concern but it nonetheless underscores his institution’s outsize footprint in all things Pakistan. What does it tell the international community about who is the sovereign power in the country?

Kamran Yousaf, Is the West punishing Pakistan because of China?
The Express Tribune, 1 August 2022
As Pakistan’s options become limited with a looming economic crisis, Western powers, through IMF, are putting pressure on Islamabad to revisit its ties with Beijing. This puts Pakistan in a tight situation. But even if Pakistan makes some adjustments under Western pressure, the country’s economic woes will be far from over.

Editorial, Terror attacks rise
The Express Tribune, 1 August 2022
TTP too must realise that radical demands are of little important when the greater threat of uncertainty looms large and both countries stand at the precipice of collapse. Terror attacks by outlawed groups and reactionary responses by the military will only cause more bleeding at a time when concerted efforts are required to strengthen the region amid a fluctuating global order.  

Editorial, Balochistan floods
The News International, 1 August 2022
Unless the government in the centre works on a reform package that includes both financial and political rights, this sense of deprivation will persist. Rain and flooding is likely to get worse in the coming years due to global climate change but it does not have to end up killing people. The least the state can do for Balochistan is to ensure better disaster management.

Editorial, Polio rising
The News International, 1 August 2022
Polio vaccinators have been putting their lives in danger as there have been dozens of attacks in which many vaccinators and their guards have lost their lives. The government needs to revisit its entire strategy for KP; if the polio issue further spirals, we will have lost years of dedicated work.