In Brief
POLITICS
PM Sharif remarks no tolerance for any steps “against the country, its innocent people, and its armed forces.”
On 24 July, The News International reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warned the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against peddling the smear campaign targeting Pakistan and the army chief. While chairing a federal cabinet meeting, he stated: “The perpetrators of the 9 May riots, who had also attacked parliament and PTV and besieged the PM House in the past, have resorted to new tactics to malign the country and its armed forces as a malicious campaign was run against Army Chief General Asim Munir from the official website of the PTI.” He warned that the government would not tolerate any “steps against the country, its innocent people and its armed forces,” reiterating his firm stance on national unity to protect national interests. Following Sharif’s  remarks. the Inter-Services Public Relations Director-General (DG ISPR) Lt General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s called on the government to “stand up against militants and “digital terrorists.” Additionally, Shehbaz pointed out the increasing terrorist incidents, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. He denounced the recent “unacceptable”  incidents involving TTP, which killed several  security force personnel and law enforcement agencies. Referrning to the wave of terrorist incidents as “machination against the country.” Sharif detailed that the government is in contact with the Afghanistan government regarding their involvement. (“PM Shehbaz vows zero tolerance for PTI's 'propaganda against armed forces',” The News International, 24 July 2024)
 
Pakistan needs a “political environment where democracy can thrive, ” says an editorial in The News International
On 25 July, an editorial in The News International titled ‘A recipe for chaos?’  questioned whether the government would ban the PTI, given the “different camps” on a potentially “dangerous precedent set under an ostensibly ‘democratic’ dispensation.”. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced that the government will proceed to ban the PTI “after consultations and legal preparations,” which the  article referred to as a “profoundly misguided step” as it would destroy democratic stability when the economic stability is already deteriorating. The editorial noted that banning a party like PTI, which has “substantial popular support,” is a “self-defeating step” that was taken on the grounds of PTI’s alleged involvement in the 9 May events and its attempts to disrupt the International Monetary deal (IMF) with Pakistan. Though both events were against the national interests and justice must be given, a “transparent legal” process should trump a ban that would only “ “exacerbate polarization and unrest.” This view is shared by majority of the civil society and “saner political voices” who have called for restraint; however, restraint seems to be “in short supply,” given that the government has decided to establish special courts for trials under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. In the past, Peca has faced criticism for allegedly granting “overarching powers to law-enforcement agencies” and violating fundamental rights. The article also maintained that though there is a necessity to combat misinformation and anti-state propaganda, there should be a maintained balance with free expression. The article stressed that “strengthening democratic institutions, fostering inclusive political dialogue, and addressing economic challenges through consensus,” should be the government’s focus and not “banning a political party or introducing problematic laws.” (“A recipe for chaos?,” The News International, 25 July 2024)
 
SC rules right to profess religion is subject to law and morality
On 24 July, the Supreme Court (SC) issued a 27-page judgment on a set of review petitions filed by the Prosecutor General of Punjab, other individuals, as well as organizations over the Mubarak Ahmad Sani case order. It declared that the right to profess religion and religious freedom as enscribed in the Constitution is subject to law, morality, and public order. The SC accepted the Punjab government’s request to relook the Mubarak Ahmad Sani case order. Earlier, on 6 February, the SC verdict overturned the conviction of Mubarak Sani, who was accused of an offence under the Punjab Holy Quran (Printing and Recording) (Amendment) Act enforced in 2021. This prompted a “malicious and slanderous campaign” against the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa according to the government and legal community. Subsequently, the Punjab government challenged the decision and argued that the finding of the 6 February verdict needed to be modified to the extent that the rights of the citizens given by the Constitution are not absolute. A three-judge bench of the SC ruled that no court in the country has the power to legislate, except for what has been provided in the Constitution or the law. The ruling also highlighted the importance of treating enemies with affability and warmth, stating “Our Holy Prophet (PBUH) has been described by the Holy Quran as Rahmatul-lil-Alameen — a blessing, the showering of which was not limited to the Mus­lims alone, but even to adve­rsaries, enemies and all beings.” (Nasir Iqbal, “Right to profess religion subject to law, morality, apex court rules,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Oil and Gas Regulation Authority instructed to deregulate fuel prices 
On 24 July, the Ministry of Energy issued a letter to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra),  instructing the authority to transfer the responsibility of determining fuel prices to the oil industry, setting neoliberal norms in the industry. Currently, four out of eight petroleum products are deregulated, which include jet fuels, hi-octane and furnace fuels. These products are purchased by businesses for industrial use. Meanwhile, consumer end products, meaning petrol, high-speed diesel, light diesel oil and kerosene, remained regulated. Though oil marketing companies are in favour of deregulating the remaining fuels, the move has been opposed by dealers, including petrol pump owners, who contended that this would place their commissions under OMC control. Currently, OMCs earn a margin of PLR 7/87 per litre for petrol and diesel, and dealers earn around PKR 8.7 per litre. An industry experttold Dawn that this move might lead to fluctuating fuel prices, but it could encourage companies to invest in quality and service. (“Energy ministry calls for framework to deregulate fuel prices,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)
 
“Women face a disproportionate number of barriers when trying to enter the workforce,” says an opinion in Dawn
On 25 July, in an opinion in Dawn titled ‘A caring economy,’ Samia Liaquat Ali Khan cited the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report, which noted how women “disproportionately” take on the “burden of caring for children,” causing global female labor force participation rates to dip during and immediately after COVID-19. South Asia is a region where the inequality of the burden of care is much higher. Khan advised companies in Pakistan to look into what factors help women enter or re-enter the workforce, in order to “enhance inclusive workplaces.” Though some companies are focused on “developing their female cohort and talent,” most are of the opinion that employing women is not “good business sense,” as the short-term cost of integration in a largely male work environment holds companies back. The “disproportionate number of barriers” facing women trying to enter the workforce include discriminatory job adverts, which are a result of the “normative patriarchal environment which governs” thoughts. Companies assume that women will eventually leave the company once they get married or pregnant, and the lack of support within their home environment means the assumptions often are true.
 
Khan noted how from a young age, men are considered the “primary breadwinners” while women are made to “feel that they are burdens,” as their roles at home are given no value. However, this is where the “care economy develops.” The opinion took the example of econonimist Nancy Folbre, who identified that caring for others “is highly productive, yet greatly undervalued.” Women are either not compensated or compensated insignificantly for this work, but if they decided to stop providing this service, “the cost to the economy and to society cannot be estimated.” Given that it has a society which “cares for its elders,” Pakistan has an “opportunity to break a negative paradigm” by rewarding men for actively taking on the role of a caregiver and giving women better economic opportunities. Khan suggested that men should be encouraged to take time for sick parents, while women should be encouraged to take up economic activity. If the government and corporate policies help facilitate this change, women can fully understand their rights and find their voices, becoming “confident and powerful.” (Samia Liaquat Ali Khan, “A caring economy,” Dawn¸ 25 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
US seeks USD 101 million to assist Pakistan in fighting terrorism and strengthening economy and democracy
On 23 July, US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu stated that the US administration sought USD 101 million for Pakistan to “strengthen democracy, fight terrorism, and stabilise the country’s economy,” While presenting a  budget request for South and Central Asian Affairs to the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee. The budget seeks a total of USD 1.01 billion in foreign assistance for the South and Central Asian region, to help it “compete with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), counter Russian and Chinese disinformation, and prevent terrorist groups from threatening the US security.” Additional resources would be given to South Asia, for which the president requested USD 585.7 million for the region, a 4.84 per cent increase from the last budget.  Lu stressed that the US wanted the Pakistani government to prevent itself from “further overreliance” on Beijing. In response to a query on how the US is planning to tackle China’s “strong and growing influence” in Pakistan, he explained that the US would supersede Chinese investments. He stated: “China is the past in terms of inves­tment; we are the future.”. (“US seeks $101m to help Pakistan fight terror, strengthen economy,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)
 
Pakistan remains the fourth worst passport in the fourth consecutive year
On 25 July, Dawn reported that the Henley Passport Index released its ranking of the world’s 199 passports, in which passports are ranked based on the number of destinations their holders can access without getting a visa beforehand. Pakistan remained in the bottom five for the fourth consecutive time, and was ranked the fourth worst. Pakistan’s and Yemen’s passports allow their citizens to travel to 33 countries without a visa. The number is higher than only Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. Afghanistan turned out to be the weakest passport this year, with only 26 visa-free travel destinations,  the lowest number recorded in the last 19 years. Another record was established by Singapore this year, which had the strongest passport with 195 visa-free travel destinations for its holders. The passport strength remains a concern for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. (“Green passport in ‘bottom 5’ for fourth straight year,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)
 
PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Police force arrests several armed suspects as part of operation targeting “good Taliban” in Bannu
On 24 July, during a clean-up operation targeting “good Taliban” in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Bannu district, the police force arrested over a dozen armed suspects, while a sit-in continued for the fifth day in southern Bannu for the restoration of peace. A police official stated: “Law enforcement raided three locations in the southern district, rounding up 17 suspects.” They also seized arms and ammunition as well as their vehicles. The suspects were shifted to the local police station where police will determine “their involvement in any terrorism-related or subversive activities.”
At the same time, the protests continued for the fifth consecutive day in the southern district of Bannu, where protestors demanded peace and indiscriminate action against armed groups. The district health department established a free medical camp at the protest site. Bannu Chamber of Com­merce and Industry President Nasir Bangash asserted that the sit-in would continue until 26 July. (Ghulam Mursalin Marwat, “Arrests in Bannu following govt-jirga agreement,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)
 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: CM Gandapur agrees to demands of the Bannu Aman Jirga
On 24 July, sources revealed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur accepted the demands of the Bannu Aman Jirga. These demands included dismantling armed groups in the province, enhancement of night patrols, allowing Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) to conduct search operations, and ensuring that missing persons are presented before courts. Gandapur addressed the Bannu jirga members’ concern during a meeting held on 22 July, and  remarked that the position of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was strategic approach than a conventional military approach. It was decided that the jirga demands would be tabled before the apex committee on 25 July. Gandapur also highlighted the new counterterrorism strategy in which the KP police and the CTD would carry out search operations. During the meeting, he assured that the Jumma Khan Road would soon be reopened for movement. In addition, the Adviser to Gandapur on Information, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, assured that the steps would be taken to eliminate terrorism across the province, and he added: “The Bannu [firing] incident will be addressed in the upcoming apex committee session, including the establishment of a commission to investigate the incident.” (“CM Gandapur accepts demands of Bannu jirga leaders,” The Express Tribune, 24 July 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
“The BJP’s Hindutva project is fundamentally a discriminatory campaign against Muslims and other minorities,” argues an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 25 July, an opinion in The Express Tribune titled ‘Muslims in India facing a thousand shades of hatred’ by Durdana Najam highlighted a “concerted effort” in India to “marginalize” the Muslim community. After the “ultra-right-wing Hindu nationalist” Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power, a generation “steeped in victim mentality” began projecting Muslims as “violaters of human rights,” making their lives a “chore.” A campaign called ‘Ghar Wapsi’ was launched to convert those who had been allegedly forced to convert to Islam, and according to Najam, the mission’s main aim is to bring back “under the Sanatan Dharma the lost, strayed, misled, captured, and stolen Muslims and Christians.” The political history for an ordinary Hindu is a “painful narrative” involving stolen identities and partition, which has today resulted in hate speech and violence against Muslims, as part of which Kashmiri freedom fighters were labelled as terrorists. Najam also pointed out how hundreds of Muslim boys were accused falsely of ‘Love Jihad,’ the practice of Muslim men “alluring Hindu girls” to marry them and then convert them to Islam. In 2023 in Assam, Muslims who constructed embankments to protect communities of flooding were accused of being ‘Flood Jihads’ after an “untimely” monsoon wiped out the flood defences in the Hindu-majority city of Silchar. Five Muslims were arrested on charges of purposely building weak embankments. Similarly during COVID-19, the term ‘Corona Jihad’ was used for Muslims accused of deliberately spreading the virus. This “growing intolerance” agains the community caused a significant backlash against the BJP in the recent elections, and “not a single Muslim” voted for them. The opinion described the BJP’s Hindutva project as “fundamentally a discriminatory campaign against Muslims and other minorities;” however, the recent elections proved that “politics of hate has a short shelf life.” (Durdana Najam, “Muslims in India facing a thousand shades of hatred,” The Express Tribune, 25 July 2024)
 
WORLDVIEW
“The uniting of Palestinian factions in Beijing is another indication of a changing world order,” opines an editorial in Dawn
On 25 July, an editorial in Dawn, titled ‘Hamas-Fatah deal’ discussed the Beijing declaration signed in China, which seeks the “formation of a unity government and the achievement of Palestinian independence at an early date.” The editorial stressed the need for “internal Palestinian unity.” It also noted that the “diplomatic coup” has strengthened China’s image as a “peacemaker” in the Middle East, something which many other foreign powers have failed to do. The declaration was signed by 14 Palestinian factions, including Hamas (which controls Gaza), and Fatah (which controls the West Bank). Both factions have been rivals since 2007. Israel, which the editorial noted h as “no intention of vacating the occupied territories,” was furious with China for inviting Hamas to the talk and further. The editorial claimed that “the idea of a unity government” is more feasible than Israel, the US, and the Arab states’ “questionable schemes.” It argued that the Palestinian people must be given the freedom to “decide their own future” instead of foreign powers, includingIsrael. Further, the editorial underlined China’s major accomplishment in the Middle East in setting its foothold after the Iran-Saudi reproachment. The editorial described this unification of the Palestinian faction in Beijing as “another indication of a changing world order.” (“Hamas-Fatah deal,” Dawn, 25 July 2024)

In Brief

In Brief
POLITICS
Imran Khan dismisses possibility of ‘deals’ with the PPP
On 20 July, at an informal meeting with journalists at Adiala Jail, former Prime Minister Imran Khan accused the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N) of “being two peas in a pod”. He branded them as “products of Form 47”, referring to the document which gives a forecast of the election results. He stated that both parties were “products of ‘manipulated’ electoral processes.” He also stated that he would only “consider” engaging with the PPP if “it was a stepping stone back to power”. He insisted that Pakistan would be able to overcome its current crises through “clean, transparent elections” and “better economic reforms.” Speaking about living in jail, he described the condition in which he is detained as “unsanitary”, and with “inadequate food.” Commenting on the recent Bannu Incident, he condemned the opening of fire by the military on “unarmed civilians during a peace march.” Thereafter, he inquired as to why neither the security footage was released nor a judicial commission was formed for the 9 May events. (“Imran Khan rules out ‘deals’ with PPP”, The Express Tribune, 21 July 2024) 
 
Information Minister Ataullah Tarar refutes Imran Khan’s claims of mistreatment in prison
On 21 July, Information Minister, Ataullah Tarar accused British journalist, Christina Lamb of being “mistaken” In an interview published in The Sunday Times, she had reported on Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s claims of being “caged like a terrorist” and being put in “solitary confinement with barely any space to move.” It isn’t clear how the interview was conducted as access to Khan is “strictly controlled and limited to his legal team and close family members.” According to The Sunday Times, the interview was conducted through his lawyers. Responding to Khan’s claims, Tarar said, Mr Khan “holds three meetings every week with his lawyers, friends, family and political leaders in the ‘presidential suite’ that has been created for him.” He further argued that during Mr Khan’s rule, the members of Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N), were confined in “7 feet by 8 feet death cells”, with no access to medicine and food. On the contrary, Tarar stated that Mr Khan “is enjoying a lavish lifestyle in jail.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt hits back at Imran’s gripes over prison conditions”, Dawn, 22 July 2024) 
 
PTI spokesperson dismisses claims by JUI-F related to the dissolution of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly
On 22 July, Dawn reported on the contradictory statements made by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) and the PTI regarding a possible plan to dissolve the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) assembly to force snap elections. JUI-F claimed that PTI is willing to dissolve the assembly and resign en masse from the parliament for a transparent election, but the PTI denied such claims. The article highlighted that PTI is cautious of dissolving the assembly as its spokesperson Raoof Hasan stated: “Why would we repeat the same mistake.” The mistake he is referring to was the dissolution of the KP and Punjab Assembly in April 2022 by the PTI, just six months after the no-confidence motion against the then Prime Minister Imran Khan. This failed in forcing the government to conduct fresh polls. Hasan also clarified PTI’s stance, stating: “We have decided to remain in parliament and will continue to struggle from within parliament. I have talked to Asad Qaiser and he said that none of our members have given assurance to the JUI-F that we are ready to resign from the KP Assembly.” Although, he asserted that in case of snap elections, the PTI would resign from the KP Assembly by assuring that the PTI would gain all the eight opposition seats.
In a similar manner, JUI-F social media head Ayaz Muhammad noted that there were almost eight to ten meetings between both parties and detailed that in the last meeting, “Maulana Fazlur Rehman shared about the decision of the PTI before journalists.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Wary of ‘past errors’, PTI on edge over resignations,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
The government’s plan to ban the PTI is a “high-risk gamble” that “misreads the mood in the country,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 22 July, in an opinion in Dawn titled “High-risk game,” Maleeha Lodhi reviewed the PML-N’s response to the Supreme Court’s reserved seats verdict in favor of the PTI. She argued that the decision to ban the PTI was a response to this verdict. Lodhi emphasized that if the PML-N goes ahead with the ban, “it could plunge the country into renewed turmoil, even chaos.” Lodhi also emphasized that there was a need for “political calm and stability to fix the economy,” however, government’s actions suggest that either the government does not understand “the nexus between economic and political stability or chooses to overlook it in a state of panic.” The panic refers to the government’s fears that the SIC verdict will open a Pandora’s Box, potentially leading to Imran Khan’s release. Lodhi pointed out the proposed ban on PTI and a PML-N spokesperson’s declaration that the party intends to initiate treason proceedings against Khan reflects how “insecure” the PML-N is feeling as well as its “intolerant mindset.” Lodhi also stressed that after the SC verdict, the government should have forged some modicum of understanding with the opposition, “especially in view of the economic challenge.” The author also noted that if the government goes ahead with its decision, it will face several hurdles, including the fact that the Supreme Court might not “endorse the ban” as if has already recognized PTI as a political party. The political risks of the ban are also “high,” especially banning a national party with high numbers in the parliament “will inevitably provoke turmoil, deepen polarization, and force PTI towards agitation.” This will also exacerbate economic risk as implementing the IMF programme in “an environment marked by political confrontation, turbulence, and uncertainty” would become difficult. (Maleeha Lodhi, “High-risk game,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Pakistan witnesses a dip in overall cotton production, experts blame “climate change” and “inefficiency”
On 22 July, the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association announced a fall in overall cotton production. They revealed that during the current season, overall cotton production has reduced by half compared to the same period in the previous year. Experts cite that this reduction in bale availability is due to “erratic weather patterns” and the failure of the government to oversee that farmers receive fair prices. The association further detailed that until 15 July, 442,000 bales of phutti or raw cotton were brought to ginning factories. This is 48.48 per cent less when compared to the previous year’s record of 858,007 bales. Further, it detailed that Punjab produced 114,375 bales which is 42.49 per cent less, and Sindh has produced 327,666 bales which is 50.29 per cent down from earlier. Sanghar district in Sindh, which is the hub of ginning factories, contributed 80 per cent and 60 per cent of the province’s and country’s overall production, respectively. Cotton Ginners’ Forum Chairman Ihsanul Haq blamed the government’s inability to ensure that the farmers get at least PKR 8,500 per 40-kilo gram rate for their produce as one of the major reasons for the dip in cotton production. He also noted that the adverse weather conditions contributed to low production, especially the excess heat in the May and June months. In addition, the high tax on the ginning sector affected the “undocumented sales” of about 2.5 million by further confirming the running of undocumented businesses in certain sectors, urging the government to upgrade the “track-and-trace system functional.” Karachi Cotton Brokers Forum Chairman Naseem Usman also blamed climate change for the dip in production. (Amjad Mahmood, “Cotton output ‘halved’ by climate change, inefficiency,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
Pakistan can overcome the “population calamity,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial in Dawn titled, “Population calamity,” argued that the “population bomb” in Pakistan has already “exploded,” The editorial made this comment in response to the revelations made by the 2023 digital census report. The report has revealed that the population of the country has increased from 207.68 million in 2017 to 241.49 million in 2023, with one of the highest growth rates of 2.55 per cent. The editorial also pointed out that there are suspicions that the 2023 census, which was published after a year delay, “understates the total population.” The editorial also noted that, according to the census data, if allowed, the population will double by 2050. One of the conservative estimates by the United Nations forecasts that the numbers will increase to 40.3 million which will have massive economic and societal implications, especially related to food security, socioeconomic infrastructure, and public services. The editorial also discussed two contrasting opinions about the country’s population growth; One stresses the “case of rampant poverty and a growing strain on the state’s capacity for public service delivery” and the other on a “demographic dividend that can be harnessed to drive faster economic growth.” The editorial claimed that the growth is more of a “bane than a boon” due to the scarce resources. Further, it delineated a few factors for the population growth, including “religio-cultural beliefs, social taboos, poverty, female illiteracy, and lack of access to birth control and family planning services, etc.” However, it also observed that many countries that had faced such a situation had overcome it. Pointing this out, the editorial argued that even Pakistan can do the same by learning from its “peers” and “implementing functional family planning programs and campaigns.” (“Population calamity,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
The government continues to burden the marginalized salaried class and lets the “hatred and negativity” around itself increase, argues an opinion in The News International
On 22 July, an opinion by Waqar Ahmed in The News International titled, “The salaried also rise,” discussed the federal budget and the salaried class of Pakistan. The author criticized the budget for being heavily influenced by the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) conditions which were aimed at increasing direct and indirect taxes. The author pointed out a very low tax base -where only five million individuals filed their tax returns out of 240 million people- as a major issue facing the country. The author argued that this is an important barrier to “growth” and it also reduces the government’s ability to spend more on public welfare. Further, the author referred to the increase in all the tax rates of the salaried class in the budget as a “sticking point.” He detailed the areas where the tax has increased and underlined that this measure will see 48 per cent in direct taxes which will further burden the already “exploited salaried class.” He referred to the Icelandic Pots and Pans revolution in 2008-2009, peaceful protests initiated in response to inflation and unemployment, and highlighted the establishment of a similar group, the Salaried Class Alliance of Pakistan to protect the rights of the earning class. This group aims to fight for the rights of the professionals. The article further emphasized that this tax provision will increase the problem of brain drain and generate a “feeling of resentment” among the educated. The author lamented that  the government is not determined to eliminate the benefits from “influential connections.” Thus, the author blamed the government for sustaining moves that burden the marginalized salaried class and for letting the “hatred and negativity” towards the government to increase. He also appreciated the aforementioned alliance for its efforts towards fighting for “fair tax policies,” and claimed that the alliance has high potential of succeeding in its objectives. (Waqar Ahmed, “The salaried also rise,” The News International, 22 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
The government can no longer use “vaccine hesitancy and other challenges as its immunity badge” when it comes to tackling the menace of polio, argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial in The News International titled “Polio’s nine lives” lamented that the steps taken by the country to tackle the menace of Polio “has proven insufficient” given that polio cases have continued to surge in 2024. The editorial pointed out that according to reports, Pakistan has recorded its 9^th polio case of the year and the victim is “a year and a half old” child from Zhob. Further, it is concerning that polio cases have seen a 50 per cent increase in the first seven months of this year as compared to last year when six cases had been recorded for the entire year. The editorial also highlighted that the polio epidemic which had earlier been restricted to Pakistan and Afghanistan has also been reported from “the war-torn and occupied strip in the Middle East.” The editorial, however, argued that the rise in polio cases in Pakistan is inexcusable. Given the widespread knowledge that there is “vaccine hesitancy among parents,” the editorial noted that it is “shameful” that the government has been unable to inform people’s opinion in this regard. The editorial acknowledged the government’s efforts to “ensure the safety of children against the virus,” but stressed that vaccine hesitancy along with “medical misinformation” is the real challenge and must be tackled. The editorial strongly remarked that the government can no longer use these excuses as “its immunity badge” and should “do more to eradicate the virus.” (“Polio’s nine lives,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
  
SECURITY
Federal government blames PTI for unrest in Bannu, KP government blames “miscreants”
On 21 July, the federal government alleged that the PTI-led provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was responsible for the unrest during a peace rally in Bannu. The provincial government, however, blamed “miscreants” for the unrest. In a press conference, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar claimed that some PTI members opened fire which caused unrest and injured several. He rejected the inquiry commission established by KP, blaming that the PTI “tried to blame the security agencies for the incident.” He also alleged that PTI has launched a “malicious campaign” on social media to propagate “wrong and fabricated story in Bannu.” He slammed Imran Khan for reinstating the terrorists in the country and stated: “You have always been a Taliban apologist…you were a Taliban sympathizer…”
Separately, a 40-member jirga that has been formed to resolve the unrest will meet KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on 22 July to express public’s concerns. Additionally, the KP Home and Tribal Affairs Department issued a statement in which it noted that the Jirga had held negotiations with the local administration and finalized a 16-point agenda. The statement pointed out that “These points are now under active consideration and those which can be resolved and agreed to at the commissioner/administration level will be done so as soon as possible.” In addition, the statement also confirmed the successful completion of the rally at Pretty Gate, Bannu City, and claimed that there were some “miscreants” who threw stones at the Security Forces Supply Depot and resorted to “small arms fire.” It lauded the efforts by the jirga and urged the public not to listen to the negative propaganda and lies. Further, KP CM Gandapur confirmed his meeting with jirga on 22 July in a video message. (“Manzoor Ali and Syed Irfan Raza, “KP points to ‘miscreants’, Centre blames PTI for unrest in Bannu,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
“Pakistan cannot continue to sleepwalk through its crises,” asserts an editorial in Dawn
On 21 July, an editorial in Dawn titled, “Civil unrest,” highlighted the protests and violent confrontations between security forces and unarmed protestors in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The article explained the unrest by distinguishing the nature of protests before the “new taxation regime” and to the current status. It highlighted that these protests were focused on various security-related issues. For instance, in Balochistan, there were uprisings against the continuing enforced disappearances, and in KP, over the killing of a poet and the Azm-i-Istehkam operation. However, the editorial pointed out that in the post “new taxation regime,” there is a possibility that “public dissatisfaction over rising costs of living could also spill into the streets soon.” The editorial also warned that this a “serious challenge for the government” as the government currently remains focused on the “deteriorating law-and-order situation.” The editorial also stressed that the situation in both KP and Balochistan gives a similar message, that “the people are now intent on pushing back and regaining greater control over their lives.” It urged the government to “lend its people a sympathetic ear” and to stop the situation from growing. The article expressed further concerns, questioning the “state’s legitimacy or the ability to solve ordinary people’s problems.” It further explained the situation in Pakistan by comparing it with Bangladesh and urged the government to put effort into resolving the issues instead of “fanning more flames.” (“Civil unrest,” Dawn, 21 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan urges Germany to take immediate action against the miscreants of Consulate attack in Frankfurt
On 21 July, Pakistan urged Germany to take immediate action against the perpetrators of the “security breach” incident that took place in the Pakistani Consulate in Frankfurt. On 20 July, a “gang of extremists” or a group of Afghan nationals attacked the Pakistan Consulate and attempted to remove and burn the Pakistani flag. The video of the incident went viral in which one of the men was seen holding the Afghan flag. Reports also mentioned that they pelted stones on the consulate building. In this regard, Pakistan condemned the attack and German police for not having made any arrests so far. However, The News International,  reported that some arrests were made for further investigation. The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan summoned the German ambassador in Islamabad to “lodge a strong protest over the vandalism of Pakistan’s diplomatic mission.” The FO stated: “Under the Vienna Conventions on Consular Relations, 1963 it is the responsibility of the host government to protect the sanctity of the consular premises and ensure the security of diplomats.”  In addition, the Pakistan Embassy in Germany also condemned the attack and ensured that the embassy was in contact with German authorities. Further, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated: “We have urged the German government to fulfill its responsibilities under the Vienna Conventions and ensure the security of the diplomatic missions and staff of Pakistan in Germany.” Information Minister Atta Tarar conveyed that the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has been asked to analyze the footage of the incident to make sure whether any Pakistani nationals were involved. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also slammed the Afghan nationals and asked the government to “rethink its hospitality towards Afghan citizens.” He angrily remarked: “There’s a limit to hospitality. They swore at us; they swore at Pakistan. They talk against the integrity of Pakistan. They carry out proper rallies [against Pakistan]. They burn our flags.” 
Separately, The Express Tribune reported that the motive behind the attack might have been to condemn the murder of Gilman Wazir, a poet, and a local political party leader.
Additionally, according to German media DW, the protests were staged to “highlight complaints against Pakistan’s military and intelligence services, which organizers accused of killing critics and political opponents.” It further mentioned that almost 400 people holding the Afghan flag took part in the protest. In a similar manner, ten days earlier to this incident, Afghan protestors who were allegedly linked to a Pakistani political movement carried out a protest outside the Pakistan High Commission in London’s Belgravia area. The protesters were demanding justice for Afghan poet Gilaman Wazir, who was killed in Islamabad. (Zaki Abbas, “Islamabad seeks action on Frankfurt ‘vandalism’,” Dawn, 22 July 2024; “Pakistan consulate in Germany vandalised,” The News International, 22 July 2024; Kamran Yousaf, “FO summons German ambassador over vandalism attack on diplomatic mission in Frankfurt,” 21 July 2024)
 
CHINA/CPEC
Government wants Chinese power plants to switch to Thar coal
On 21 July, Power Minister, Awais Leghari, announced that Pakistan will ask China to shift to Thar coal for its power plants, instead of imported coal. Mr Leghari informed that he will be a part of the delegation which will discuss structural reforms in the power sector, as suggested by the International Monetary Fund. The UN agency raised concerns over “high rates of power theft and distribution losses”, which have led to an accumulation of debt throughout the production chain. These structural reforms aim at reducing “circular debt” i.e. “public liabilities that build up in the power sector due to subsidies and unpaid bills.” In an interview, Mr Leghari opined that the main aim is to convert Pakistan’s “imported coal units to the local coal” as it would “benefit the Chinese-owned plants in Pakistan by reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves.” Such a transition would economize Pakistan’s spending of PKR 200 billion in imports, per year and even reduce the price of electricity to PKR 2.5 per unit. (“Islamabad wants Chinese utilities to use Thar coal”, Dawn, 22 July 2024) 
 
Pakistan releases anthem to celebrate 97th PLA anniversary
On 21 July, The Express Tribune reported that to commemorate the 97th anniversary of the China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Pakistan has “unveiled” an anthem that celebrates the bond shared by the two countries. The lyrics “poetically” captures “the essence of their friendship.” It describes how peaks of the Himalayas seem less significant than the “bond” they hold and its “depths appear shallow next to the strength of” their “friendship.” 
 (“Pakistan releases new anthem honouring China’s 97th PLA anniversary”, The Express Tribune, 21 July 2024) 
 
WORLD VIEW
“The ICJ’s decision comes at a crucial time, and gives much-needed context to the Palestinian question,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial titled “Blow to occupation” in Dawn, described the recent “non-binding advisory opinion” of the ICJ against the “decades-old Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories” as a “legal blow.” The judgment not only recognized that “Israel has been illegally occupying Palestinian land in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since the 1967 war” but also pointed out that this has hindered “the Palestinians’ right to self-determination.” The court in its advisory opinion also urged the international community to not provide “aid or assistance” to Israel. The editorial highlighted the “Israeli settlers’” extreme violence against Palestinians with the backing of the military and noted that this shocks “even many of Tel Aviv’s staunchest foreign backers.” Referring to Israel’s “ongoing slaughter in Gaza,” the editorial further argued that Israel continues to operate with impunity and tramples on “the international ‘rules-based order’, as the global community meekly watches on.” The editorial emphasized that the timing of the ICJ ruling is “crucial” as it provides “much-needed context to the Palestinian question.” The editorial lamented that international pressure on Israel to accept and implement the ICJ’s ruling is “unlikely to happen, as the global order is driven by realpolitik, not principles.” The editorial concluded by stating that “a viable Palestinian state — free from Israel’s stranglehold” is, however, “the only solution to this long-festering dispute.” (“Blow to occupation,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)

“Promoting awareness of legal migration opportunities and the benefits of following legal processes is crucial,” insists an opinion in The News International
On 22 July, in an opinion in The News International titled “Migration in crisis”, Zahra Khalid argued that taking “irregular migration routes” to a foreign country can neither be “justified” nor “guarantee a better life for immigrants.” On interacting with migrants, she stated that they often feel “ashamed of returning empty-handed and guilty for putting their families through emotional and financial strain.” She also highlighted “inhumane incidents” where smugglers “exploit the vulnerability of trafficked individuals.” She illustrates how “some time back, migrants were found dead in a refrigerated truck after entering the destination country through a smuggling network.” She highlights the risks involved in migration, as reflected in the incident when 800 migrants died by using the “dunki” routes. As a solution, she deems it imperative for the government to “educate the youth about the dangers and potential consequences of illegal migration and the benefits of following legal processes” and also highlight “success stories” of people, “who have prospered by working within their home country or through legal migration.” She concluded with the importance of  creating “awareness of legal migration opportunities and the benefits of following legal processes” as “irregular cross-border” migration would make border restrictions “highly ineffective” because countries in the West and Gulf states “are moving to digital IDs and strict immigration policies.” ( Zahra Khalid, “Migration in crisis,” The News International, 22 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Imran Khan dismisses possibility of ‘deals’ with the PPP
On 20 July, at an informal meeting with journalists at Adiala Jail, former Prime Minister Imran Khan accused the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N) of “being two peas in a pod”. He branded them as “products of Form 47”, referring to the document which gives a forecast of the election results. He stated that both parties were “products of ‘manipulated’ electoral processes.” He also stated that he would only “consider” engaging with the PPP if “it was a stepping stone back to power”. He insisted that Pakistan would be able to overcome its current crises through “clean, transparent elections” and “better economic reforms.” Speaking about living in jail, he described the condition in which he is detained as “unsanitary”, and with “inadequate food.” Commenting on the recent Bannu Incident, he condemned the opening of fire by the military on “unarmed civilians during a peace march.” Thereafter, he inquired as to why neither the security footage was released nor a judicial commission was formed for the 9 May events. (“Imran Khan rules out ‘deals’ with PPP”, The Express Tribune, 21 July 2024) 
 
Information Minister Ataullah Tarar refutes Imran Khan’s claims of mistreatment in prison
On 21 July, Information Minister, Ataullah Tarar accused British journalist, Christina Lamb of being “mistaken” In an interview published in The Sunday Times, she had reported on Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s claims of being “caged like a terrorist” and being put in “solitary confinement with barely any space to move.” It isn’t clear how the interview was conducted as access to Khan is “strictly controlled and limited to his legal team and close family members.” According to The Sunday Times, the interview was conducted through his lawyers. Responding to Khan’s claims, Tarar said, Mr Khan “holds three meetings every week with his lawyers, friends, family and political leaders in the ‘presidential suite’ that has been created for him.” He further argued that during Mr Khan’s rule, the members of Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N), were confined in “7 feet by 8 feet death cells”, with no access to medicine and food. On the contrary, Tarar stated that Mr Khan “is enjoying a lavish lifestyle in jail.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt hits back at Imran’s gripes over prison conditions”, Dawn, 22 July 2024) 
 
PTI spokesperson dismisses claims by JUI-F related to the dissolution of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly
On 22 July, Dawn reported on the contradictory statements made by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) and the PTI regarding a possible plan to dissolve the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) assembly to force snap elections. JUI-F claimed that PTI is willing to dissolve the assembly and resign en masse from the parliament for a transparent election, but the PTI denied such claims. The article highlighted that PTI is cautious of dissolving the assembly as its spokesperson Raoof Hasan stated: “Why would we repeat the same mistake.” The mistake he is referring to was the dissolution of the KP and Punjab Assembly in April 2022 by the PTI, just six months after the no-confidence motion against the then Prime Minister Imran Khan. This failed in forcing the government to conduct fresh polls. Hasan also clarified PTI’s stance, stating: “We have decided to remain in parliament and will continue to struggle from within parliament. I have talked to Asad Qaiser and he said that none of our members have given assurance to the JUI-F that we are ready to resign from the KP Assembly.” Although, he asserted that in case of snap elections, the PTI would resign from the KP Assembly by assuring that the PTI would gain all the eight opposition seats.
In a similar manner, JUI-F social media head Ayaz Muhammad noted that there were almost eight to ten meetings between both parties and detailed that in the last meeting, “Maulana Fazlur Rehman shared about the decision of the PTI before journalists.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Wary of ‘past errors’, PTI on edge over resignations,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
The government’s plan to ban the PTI is a “high-risk gamble” that “misreads the mood in the country,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 22 July, in an opinion in Dawn titled “High-risk game,” Maleeha Lodhi reviewed the PML-N’s response to the Supreme Court’s reserved seats verdict in favor of the PTI. She argued that the decision to ban the PTI was a response to this verdict. Lodhi emphasized that if the PML-N goes ahead with the ban, “it could plunge the country into renewed turmoil, even chaos.” Lodhi also emphasized that there was a need for “political calm and stability to fix the economy,” however, government’s actions suggest that either the government does not understand “the nexus between economic and political stability or chooses to overlook it in a state of panic.” The panic refers to the government’s fears that the SIC verdict will open a Pandora’s Box, potentially leading to Imran Khan’s release. Lodhi pointed out the proposed ban on PTI and a PML-N spokesperson’s declaration that the party intends to initiate treason proceedings against Khan reflects how “insecure” the PML-N is feeling as well as its “intolerant mindset.” Lodhi also stressed that after the SC verdict, the government should have forged some modicum of understanding with the opposition, “especially in view of the economic challenge.” The author also noted that if the government goes ahead with its decision, it will face several hurdles, including the fact that the Supreme Court might not “endorse the ban” as if has already recognized PTI as a political party. The political risks of the ban are also “high,” especially banning a national party with high numbers in the parliament “will inevitably provoke turmoil, deepen polarization, and force PTI towards agitation.” This will also exacerbate economic risk as implementing the IMF programme in “an environment marked by political confrontation, turbulence, and uncertainty” would become difficult. (Maleeha Lodhi, “High-risk game,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Pakistan witnesses a dip in overall cotton production, experts blame “climate change” and “inefficiency”
On 22 July, the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association announced a fall in overall cotton production. They revealed that during the current season, overall cotton production has reduced by half compared to the same period in the previous year. Experts cite that this reduction in bale availability is due to “erratic weather patterns” and the failure of the government to oversee that farmers receive fair prices. The association further detailed that until 15 July, 442,000 bales of phutti or raw cotton were brought to ginning factories. This is 48.48 per cent less when compared to the previous year’s record of 858,007 bales. Further, it detailed that Punjab produced 114,375 bales which is 42.49 per cent less, and Sindh has produced 327,666 bales which is 50.29 per cent down from earlier. Sanghar district in Sindh, which is the hub of ginning factories, contributed 80 per cent and 60 per cent of the province’s and country’s overall production, respectively. Cotton Ginners’ Forum Chairman Ihsanul Haq blamed the government’s inability to ensure that the farmers get at least PKR 8,500 per 40-kilo gram rate for their produce as one of the major reasons for the dip in cotton production. He also noted that the adverse weather conditions contributed to low production, especially the excess heat in the May and June months. In addition, the high tax on the ginning sector affected the “undocumented sales” of about 2.5 million by further confirming the running of undocumented businesses in certain sectors, urging the government to upgrade the “track-and-trace system functional.” Karachi Cotton Brokers Forum Chairman Naseem Usman also blamed climate change for the dip in production. (Amjad Mahmood, “Cotton output ‘halved’ by climate change, inefficiency,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
Pakistan can overcome the “population calamity,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial in Dawn titled, “Population calamity,” argued that the “population bomb” in Pakistan has already “exploded,” The editorial made this comment in response to the revelations made by the 2023 digital census report. The report has revealed that the population of the country has increased from 207.68 million in 2017 to 241.49 million in 2023, with one of the highest growth rates of 2.55 per cent. The editorial also pointed out that there are suspicions that the 2023 census, which was published after a year delay, “understates the total population.” The editorial also noted that, according to the census data, if allowed, the population will double by 2050. One of the conservative estimates by the United Nations forecasts that the numbers will increase to 40.3 million which will have massive economic and societal implications, especially related to food security, socioeconomic infrastructure, and public services. The editorial also discussed two contrasting opinions about the country’s population growth; One stresses the “case of rampant poverty and a growing strain on the state’s capacity for public service delivery” and the other on a “demographic dividend that can be harnessed to drive faster economic growth.” The editorial claimed that the growth is more of a “bane than a boon” due to the scarce resources. Further, it delineated a few factors for the population growth, including “religio-cultural beliefs, social taboos, poverty, female illiteracy, and lack of access to birth control and family planning services, etc.” However, it also observed that many countries that had faced such a situation had overcome it. Pointing this out, the editorial argued that even Pakistan can do the same by learning from its “peers” and “implementing functional family planning programs and campaigns.” (“Population calamity,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
The government continues to burden the marginalized salaried class and lets the “hatred and negativity” around itself increase, argues an opinion in The News International
On 22 July, an opinion by Waqar Ahmed in The News International titled, “The salaried also rise,” discussed the federal budget and the salaried class of Pakistan. The author criticized the budget for being heavily influenced by the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) conditions which were aimed at increasing direct and indirect taxes. The author pointed out a very low tax base -where only five million individuals filed their tax returns out of 240 million people- as a major issue facing the country. The author argued that this is an important barrier to “growth” and it also reduces the government’s ability to spend more on public welfare. Further, the author referred to the increase in all the tax rates of the salaried class in the budget as a “sticking point.” He detailed the areas where the tax has increased and underlined that this measure will see 48 per cent in direct taxes which will further burden the already “exploited salaried class.” He referred to the Icelandic Pots and Pans revolution in 2008-2009, peaceful protests initiated in response to inflation and unemployment, and highlighted the establishment of a similar group, the Salaried Class Alliance of Pakistan to protect the rights of the earning class. This group aims to fight for the rights of the professionals. The article further emphasized that this tax provision will increase the problem of brain drain and generate a “feeling of resentment” among the educated. The author lamented that  the government is not determined to eliminate the benefits from “influential connections.” Thus, the author blamed the government for sustaining moves that burden the marginalized salaried class and for letting the “hatred and negativity” towards the government to increase. He also appreciated the aforementioned alliance for its efforts towards fighting for “fair tax policies,” and claimed that the alliance has high potential of succeeding in its objectives. (Waqar Ahmed, “The salaried also rise,” The News International, 22 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
The government can no longer use “vaccine hesitancy and other challenges as its immunity badge” when it comes to tackling the menace of polio, argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial in The News International titled “Polio’s nine lives” lamented that the steps taken by the country to tackle the menace of Polio “has proven insufficient” given that polio cases have continued to surge in 2024. The editorial pointed out that according to reports, Pakistan has recorded its 9^th polio case of the year and the victim is “a year and a half old” child from Zhob. Further, it is concerning that polio cases have seen a 50 per cent increase in the first seven months of this year as compared to last year when six cases had been recorded for the entire year. The editorial also highlighted that the polio epidemic which had earlier been restricted to Pakistan and Afghanistan has also been reported from “the war-torn and occupied strip in the Middle East.” The editorial, however, argued that the rise in polio cases in Pakistan is inexcusable. Given the widespread knowledge that there is “vaccine hesitancy among parents,” the editorial noted that it is “shameful” that the government has been unable to inform people’s opinion in this regard. The editorial acknowledged the government’s efforts to “ensure the safety of children against the virus,” but stressed that vaccine hesitancy along with “medical misinformation” is the real challenge and must be tackled. The editorial strongly remarked that the government can no longer use these excuses as “its immunity badge” and should “do more to eradicate the virus.” (“Polio’s nine lives,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
  
SECURITY
Federal government blames PTI for unrest in Bannu, KP government blames “miscreants”
On 21 July, the federal government alleged that the PTI-led provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was responsible for the unrest during a peace rally in Bannu. The provincial government, however, blamed “miscreants” for the unrest. In a press conference, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar claimed that some PTI members opened fire which caused unrest and injured several. He rejected the inquiry commission established by KP, blaming that the PTI “tried to blame the security agencies for the incident.” He also alleged that PTI has launched a “malicious campaign” on social media to propagate “wrong and fabricated story in Bannu.” He slammed Imran Khan for reinstating the terrorists in the country and stated: “You have always been a Taliban apologist…you were a Taliban sympathizer…”
Separately, a 40-member jirga that has been formed to resolve the unrest will meet KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on 22 July to express public’s concerns. Additionally, the KP Home and Tribal Affairs Department issued a statement in which it noted that the Jirga had held negotiations with the local administration and finalized a 16-point agenda. The statement pointed out that “These points are now under active consideration and those which can be resolved and agreed to at the commissioner/administration level will be done so as soon as possible.” In addition, the statement also confirmed the successful completion of the rally at Pretty Gate, Bannu City, and claimed that there were some “miscreants” who threw stones at the Security Forces Supply Depot and resorted to “small arms fire.” It lauded the efforts by the jirga and urged the public not to listen to the negative propaganda and lies. Further, KP CM Gandapur confirmed his meeting with jirga on 22 July in a video message. (“Manzoor Ali and Syed Irfan Raza, “KP points to ‘miscreants’, Centre blames PTI for unrest in Bannu,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)
 
“Pakistan cannot continue to sleepwalk through its crises,” asserts an editorial in Dawn
On 21 July, an editorial in Dawn titled, “Civil unrest,” highlighted the protests and violent confrontations between security forces and unarmed protestors in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The article explained the unrest by distinguishing the nature of protests before the “new taxation regime” and to the current status. It highlighted that these protests were focused on various security-related issues. For instance, in Balochistan, there were uprisings against the continuing enforced disappearances, and in KP, over the killing of a poet and the Azm-i-Istehkam operation. However, the editorial pointed out that in the post “new taxation regime,” there is a possibility that “public dissatisfaction over rising costs of living could also spill into the streets soon.” The editorial also warned that this a “serious challenge for the government” as the government currently remains focused on the “deteriorating law-and-order situation.” The editorial also stressed that the situation in both KP and Balochistan gives a similar message, that “the people are now intent on pushing back and regaining greater control over their lives.” It urged the government to “lend its people a sympathetic ear” and to stop the situation from growing. The article expressed further concerns, questioning the “state’s legitimacy or the ability to solve ordinary people’s problems.” It further explained the situation in Pakistan by comparing it with Bangladesh and urged the government to put effort into resolving the issues instead of “fanning more flames.” (“Civil unrest,” Dawn, 21 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan urges Germany to take immediate action against the miscreants of Consulate attack in Frankfurt
On 21 July, Pakistan urged Germany to take immediate action against the perpetrators of the “security breach” incident that took place in the Pakistani Consulate in Frankfurt. On 20 July, a “gang of extremists” or a group of Afghan nationals attacked the Pakistan Consulate and attempted to remove and burn the Pakistani flag. The video of the incident went viral in which one of the men was seen holding the Afghan flag. Reports also mentioned that they pelted stones on the consulate building. In this regard, Pakistan condemned the attack and German police for not having made any arrests so far. However, The News International,  reported that some arrests were made for further investigation. The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan summoned the German ambassador in Islamabad to “lodge a strong protest over the vandalism of Pakistan’s diplomatic mission.” The FO stated: “Under the Vienna Conventions on Consular Relations, 1963 it is the responsibility of the host government to protect the sanctity of the consular premises and ensure the security of diplomats.”  In addition, the Pakistan Embassy in Germany also condemned the attack and ensured that the embassy was in contact with German authorities. Further, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated: “We have urged the German government to fulfill its responsibilities under the Vienna Conventions and ensure the security of the diplomatic missions and staff of Pakistan in Germany.” Information Minister Atta Tarar conveyed that the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has been asked to analyze the footage of the incident to make sure whether any Pakistani nationals were involved. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also slammed the Afghan nationals and asked the government to “rethink its hospitality towards Afghan citizens.” He angrily remarked: “There’s a limit to hospitality. They swore at us; they swore at Pakistan. They talk against the integrity of Pakistan. They carry out proper rallies [against Pakistan]. They burn our flags.” 
Separately, The Express Tribune reported that the motive behind the attack might have been to condemn the murder of Gilman Wazir, a poet, and a local political party leader.
Additionally, according to German media DW, the protests were staged to “highlight complaints against Pakistan’s military and intelligence services, which organizers accused of killing critics and political opponents.” It further mentioned that almost 400 people holding the Afghan flag took part in the protest. In a similar manner, ten days earlier to this incident, Afghan protestors who were allegedly linked to a Pakistani political movement carried out a protest outside the Pakistan High Commission in London’s Belgravia area. The protesters were demanding justice for Afghan poet Gilaman Wazir, who was killed in Islamabad. (Zaki Abbas, “Islamabad seeks action on Frankfurt ‘vandalism’,” Dawn, 22 July 2024; “Pakistan consulate in Germany vandalised,” The News International, 22 July 2024; Kamran Yousaf, “FO summons German ambassador over vandalism attack on diplomatic mission in Frankfurt,” 21 July 2024)
 
CHINA/CPEC
Government wants Chinese power plants to switch to Thar coal
On 21 July, Power Minister, Awais Leghari, announced that Pakistan will ask China to shift to Thar coal for its power plants, instead of imported coal. Mr Leghari informed that he will be a part of the delegation which will discuss structural reforms in the power sector, as suggested by the International Monetary Fund. The UN agency raised concerns over “high rates of power theft and distribution losses”, which have led to an accumulation of debt throughout the production chain. These structural reforms aim at reducing “circular debt” i.e. “public liabilities that build up in the power sector due to subsidies and unpaid bills.” In an interview, Mr Leghari opined that the main aim is to convert Pakistan’s “imported coal units to the local coal” as it would “benefit the Chinese-owned plants in Pakistan by reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves.” Such a transition would economize Pakistan’s spending of PKR 200 billion in imports, per year and even reduce the price of electricity to PKR 2.5 per unit. (“Islamabad wants Chinese utilities to use Thar coal”, Dawn, 22 July 2024) 
 
Pakistan releases anthem to celebrate 97th PLA anniversary
On 21 July, The Express Tribune reported that to commemorate the 97th anniversary of the China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Pakistan has “unveiled” an anthem that celebrates the bond shared by the two countries. The lyrics “poetically” captures “the essence of their friendship.” It describes how peaks of the Himalayas seem less significant than the “bond” they hold and its “depths appear shallow next to the strength of” their “friendship.” 
 (“Pakistan releases new anthem honouring China’s 97th PLA anniversary”, The Express Tribune, 21 July 2024) 
 
WORLD VIEW
“The ICJ’s decision comes at a crucial time, and gives much-needed context to the Palestinian question,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 22 July, an editorial titled “Blow to occupation” in Dawn, described the recent “non-binding advisory opinion” of the ICJ against the “decades-old Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories” as a “legal blow.” The judgment not only recognized that “Israel has been illegally occupying Palestinian land in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since the 1967 war” but also pointed out that this has hindered “the Palestinians’ right to self-determination.” The court in its advisory opinion also urged the international community to not provide “aid or assistance” to Israel. The editorial highlighted the “Israeli settlers’” extreme violence against Palestinians with the backing of the military and noted that this shocks “even many of Tel Aviv’s staunchest foreign backers.” Referring to Israel’s “ongoing slaughter in Gaza,” the editorial further argued that Israel continues to operate with impunity and tramples on “the international ‘rules-based order’, as the global community meekly watches on.” The editorial emphasized that the timing of the ICJ ruling is “crucial” as it provides “much-needed context to the Palestinian question.” The editorial lamented that international pressure on Israel to accept and implement the ICJ’s ruling is “unlikely to happen, as the global order is driven by realpolitik, not principles.” The editorial concluded by stating that “a viable Palestinian state — free from Israel’s stranglehold” is, however, “the only solution to this long-festering dispute.” (“Blow to occupation,” Dawn, 22 July 2024)

“Promoting awareness of legal migration opportunities and the benefits of following legal processes is crucial,” insists an opinion in The News International
On 22 July, in an opinion in The News International titled “Migration in crisis”, Zahra Khalid argued that taking “irregular migration routes” to a foreign country can neither be “justified” nor “guarantee a better life for immigrants.” On interacting with migrants, she stated that they often feel “ashamed of returning empty-handed and guilty for putting their families through emotional and financial strain.” She also highlighted “inhumane incidents” where smugglers “exploit the vulnerability of trafficked individuals.” She illustrates how “some time back, migrants were found dead in a refrigerated truck after entering the destination country through a smuggling network.” She highlights the risks involved in migration, as reflected in the incident when 800 migrants died by using the “dunki” routes. As a solution, she deems it imperative for the government to “educate the youth about the dangers and potential consequences of illegal migration and the benefits of following legal processes” and also highlight “success stories” of people, “who have prospered by working within their home country or through legal migration.” She concluded with the importance of  creating “awareness of legal migration opportunities and the benefits of following legal processes” as “irregular cross-border” migration would make border restrictions “highly ineffective” because countries in the West and Gulf states “are moving to digital IDs and strict immigration policies.” ( Zahra Khalid, “Migration in crisis,” The News International, 22 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
PPP suggests that PML-N should handle the “proposed ban on PTI” in a “democratic way”
On 20 July, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) suggested that the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) reconsider its decision of filing a review petition in the Supreme Court against the reserved seats case judgment. PPP cautioned PML-N that the government might not get any relief through this review petition and urged the government to handle the issue of banning PTI democratically. This was conveyed during a meeting convened following PPP’s objection that it was not consulted by the PML-N before it took a decision on the matter. The said meeting focused on two issues, filing a review petition on the reserved seats case judgment and the proposed ban on PTI. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PML-N told to seek ‘democratic solution’ to its PTI problem,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
ECP agrees to implement the SC’s decision on PTI’s reserved seats case
On 19 July, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) agreed to implement the PTI’s reserved seats judgment. The ECP’s media wing informed that instructions had been issued to find the obstacles while implementing the judgment so that the ECP legal team could seek further directions from the top court. When questioned about the notifications of 39 PTI MNAs, a senior ECP official stated: “The Commission still has time for it” and confirmed that notifications for all the 80 MNAs will be issued in one go. Though, he indicated that the legal status of PTI is still questionable citing the party’s “flawed” intra-party elections. Further, the two-day meeting condemned the continuous criticism of the Chief Election Commissioner and the ECP members and referred to the demand for the CEC’s resignation as “ridiculous.” The ECP stated: The commission will not succumb to any kind of pressure and will continue to work according to the constitution and law.” It further clarified that the ECP did not “misinterpret any decision” by detailing that PTI’s intra-party election as “invalid” and the “Bat symbol” was withdrawn under Section 215 of the Elections Act.” The ECP explained that the 41 candidates had been declared as independent candidates because they did not submit their party affiliation and any party ticket. It also claimed that those MNAs joined the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) voluntarily after winning the election. Further, on 23 July, the ECP will hear the PTI’s intra-party election case. The notices have been sent to PTI chairman Barrister Gohar and party spokesperson Raoof Hasan.
Similarly, Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the ruling PML-N alleged the decision of the Supreme Court violates the Constitution and the law, stating: “The decision has trampled constitution.” He further questioned that “Any addition or alteration is like rewriting the constitution. If the constitution and the law gave members three days, from where this 15-day timeline has come in the SC decision?” (Iftikhar A. Khan, “ECP ready to implement reserved seats verdict, with ‘ifs and buts’,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
“Constitutional crisis seems to have been averted,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 20 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Royal tantrum,” discussed the Election Commission of Pakistan’s announcement to implement the Supreme Court’s verdict in the reserved seats case, stating that “the constitutional crisis seems to have been averted.” However, the ECP remains defiant on 11 Supreme Court justices’ finding over the misinterpretation of the bat symbol judgment to not recognize the PTI as a political entity and a violation of the law. The editorial noted that ECP’s implementation “may not be as smooth as one would hope,” however, it also agreed that things were going in the “right direction.” The editorial highlighted that this decision took place amidst various perceptions and warnings all over the media like a ‘constitutional meltdown’ and a ‘looming emergency.’ There were also rumors existed that the ECP would defy the court. It also mentioned Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s warning that “constitutional breakdown is about to happen.” The editorial further reiterated PML-N’s announcement of banning the largest party in Parliament, PTI, and its forced back stepping following the “heavy condemnation” from its friends and foes. The editorial also criticized PML-N’s act of slamming the Judiciary for its “favoritism” and the political opponents for “hatching conspiracies against the country.” The article argued that this stance by PML-N is a “dangerous sign.” Further, it alleged that PML-N has secured majority only because of the “series of patently unjust and illegal decisions taken by the ECP.” With a note on PML-N’s sustained condemnation of PTI for the 9 May issue and its accusations of biases on judiciary, the editorial suggested that the party “back its rhetoric and reverse course.” (“Royal tantrum,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
Two retired judges appointed as ad hoc members in the Supreme Court
On 18 July, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) appointed two retired judges of the Supreme Court, Justice Mazhar Alam Miankhel and Justice Sardar Tariq Masood as ad hoc members for one year. The nomination of Justice Masood was approved with a majority vote of 8-1. However, Justice Munib Akhtar’s nomination, a member of the commission, was rejected on technical grounds. The recommendation of Justice Miankhel was approved by the opposition; however, he later confirmed his unwillingness to accept the offer citing the social media controversy.
Initially, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa recommended Mushir Alam, Maqbool Baqar, Mazhar Alam Miankhel, and Sardar Tariq Masood as ad hoc judges. Later, Justice Mushir Alam and Justice Maqbool Baqar refused to accept the offer. The plan was to appoint these judges for three years as ad hoc judges in the Supreme Court. Akhtar Hussain, who represents the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) in the JCP announced that during the meeting discussions took place on the legal and constitutional matters regarding the appointment. He stressed that discussions were held particularly on the recommendations that have been made under Article 182 of the Constitution, rather than Article 175-A. They also discussed the kind of job to be assigned to the ad hoc judges since it is not a regular one. The meeting also suggested seeking Justice Miankhel for his fresh consent about the offer. He further clarified that the three-judge committee constituted under the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023 will assign the work to the ad hoc judges. He also expressed regret for the evolving opposition against the appointment and underlined that such criticism was only aimed at further polarizing society for petty political gains. (Nasir Iqbal, “Two retired judges ‘brought back’ to apex court as ad hoc members,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
State Bank of Pakistan data reveals increase in FDI compared to last year
On 18 July, the State Bank of Pakistan released data showing an increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to by 17 per cent to USD 1.9 billion in FY24 compared to the previous year of USD 1.62 billion.  The FDI inflows in June alone reached USD 168.7 million in FY 24 compared to USD 122.4 million in FY 23. Chinese investments led in FY24 with USD 568 million despite the political and economic struggles. China remains Pakistan’s leading investor and trading partner, with Hong Kong as the second-largest contributor with USD 358.5 million which is an increase from USD 250 million last year. Significant foreign investments were recorded from various countries, with the United Kingdom contributing USD 268 million, the United States contributing USD 137 million, and Singapore contributing USD 100 million. The power sector attracted the highest foreign investment at USD 799.9 million in FY24. Investments in oil and gas exploration increased to USD 303.6 million from USD 137 million in the previous year. The financial sector, including banks and insurance, attracted USD 208 million, from USD 276 million last year. Inflows in mining and quarrying reached USD 103 million, from the net outflow of USD 220 million in FY23. (“FDI jumps 17pc to $1.9bn,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
Current Account Deficit (CAD) reaches 13-year low
On 18 July, the State Bank of Pakistan released data showing that the country’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) had reduced drastically to 79 per cent, the lowest in 13 years. As per the data released by the State Bank, the CAD fell to USD 681 million from USD 3.275 billion in FY 23. Head of research at Arif Habib Ltd., Tahir Abbas said this decrease was attributed to a 6 per cent reduction in the trade deficit and an 11 per cent increase in remittances. Exports of goods totaled USD 31.09 billion, from USD 27.88 billion in FY23, while exports of services slightly increased to USD 7.8 billion from USD 7.59 billion. Imports of goods were USD 53.17 billion, and services imports were USD 10.12 billion. The State Bank reported a trade deficit of USD 22.08 billion in goods and USD 2.31 billion in services in FY24, from USD 1 billion in FY23. In FY24, the exports grew by 11.5 per cent, a decrease from 14.2 per cent in FY23. There was a minimal growth of of 0.9 per cent in import after a 26.3 per cent decline in FY23. Experts anticipate that the current account deficit will remain low in 2025 if the government continues to control imports and increase remittances. Exporters have expressed dissatisfaction with economic policies, expressing concerns with the finance minister and making public appeals. The economic downturn from reduced imports in FY23 is expected to continue, with a growth rate of only 2.4 per cent in FY24. (Shahid Iqbal, “Current account deficit shrinks to 13-year low,” Dawn, 20 July 2025)
 
SECURITY
Violence during peace rally and terrorist attacks in different parts of KP kill four and injure several others
On 19 July, a series of terrorist attacks and violent incidents in different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed at least four people injured more than two dozen. In Bannu City, a peace rally demanding security in the southern district was disrupted by gunfire that killed one and injured 22 others. The peace rally was taken out following the recent terrorist attack on the Bannu Cantonment. According to official sources, shots were fired from the neighbouring area targeting the security forces’ tents. Security forces fired back. The attack took place when the marchers moved towards the Sports complex building for a public meeting. In this regard, KP government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif stated that the situation was under control and informed that CM Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has ordered an investigation.
Similarly, in South Waziristan, a remote-controlled roadside bomb killed two people. Based on police reports, the attack targeted peace committee commander Ainullah Wazir’s car. Wazir escaped the blast, however, two civilians were killed.
Further, another grenade attack on a police post at the Takht-i-Bahi archaeological site attack in the northeastern Mardan district by unidentified assailants killed one constable Umar Nabi and severely injured two other officers, Shabbir and Muhammad Fayyaz. Subsequently, the Police launched a search operation. (“One killed, scores hurt as violence mars Bannu rally,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
TLP calls off protest in Faizabad after the federal government agrees to increase aid to Palestinians
On 19 July, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) called off its protest at Faizabad following a settlement with the federal government. The government agreed to accelerate support to the Palestinian victims in return for the TLP’s decision to call off the sit-in. This development took place after continued negotiation for the second day. After signing the agreement, Adviser to Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah announced that the TLP would support the government in extending consignments of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. He further assured that a shipment of more than 1000 tonnes of edible items and medicines will be sent to Palestine before 31 July. He also agreed to accommodate more Palestinian students and facilitate health facilities in Pakistan. In addition, it was also agreed Pakistan will send medical assistance in the form of medical and paramedical staff. The PM’s advisor condemned Israel’s actions and referred to it as a “terrorist state.” He called Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal” as per international law and urged the international community and the Muslim Ummah to hold him accountable.
In addition, he declared that henceforth the government of Pakistan will not use the products of companies that influence the war crimes against Palestinians. Efforts to release Dr Aafia Siddiqui who is imprisoned in the US were also decided during the negotiation. (Kalbe Ali, “Week-long agony ends as TLP protesters wrap up Faizabad sit-in,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
PROVINCES
"Threats to freedom of expression, journalists and journalism, which were prevalent during the ‘war on terror’ years persist in KP," argues an opinion in Dawn
On 20 July, an opinion by Aurangzaib Khan in Dawn titled, “Merger and a manacled media,” argued that “threats to freedom of expression, journalists and journalism” that existed during the “war on terror” years are evolving after five years of merging FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) with KP. Citing ongoing terrorist attacks, the author claimed that the progress promised was hampered as journalists tasked to report the region’s challenges themselves are becoming causalities. The author highlighted that “Militancy and the attendant securitization have fostered an oppressive order marked by threats, suspicion, and paranoia, undermining opportunities for peace, dialogue, and development.” By mentioning the “security and combat,” the author argued that the region has failed to withhold the promise as it is again trapped in “an insular, combative and conservative tribal mould.” Even decades after 9/11, the journalists covering FATA continue to face insecurity and it has become a “chronic affliction.” The opinion quoted a tribal journalist: “If there is no safety, there cannot be journalism but controlled information that serves the parties to a conflict more than the people caught in it.” The author also claimed that this insecurity has widened the long-standing gap between the citizens and the state within the tribal districts’ political and governance system. Further, he regretted that “a free media could have facilitated a dialogue between both.” Further, the author believes that the merger of Fata into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was a missed opportunity. Instead of empowering local voices and facilitating free expression, the post-merger communication regime has focused on strategic communication to push government narratives rather than “amplifying and strengthening” citizen voices through free media. The author explained that on one hand, insecurity for journalism has increased and on the other hand, mainstream media’s disproportionate focus on conflict and security issues has undermined local media journalism. Finally, the author stressed that the merger as a “lost opportunity,” as it could have been a model to resolve the issues. Instead, it has failed to ensure freedom of expression and information in the tribal districts. (Aurangzaib Khan, “Merger and a manacled media,” Dawn, 20 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Leaked TTP call reveals planned terror attacks in Pakistan
On 20 July, according to Geo News sources, the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is planning a series of terrorist attacks in Pakistan. In a phone call intercepted by authorities, TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud gave instructions to his lieutenants on how to carry out these attacks. The TTP plans to “plunge the country into chaos” by attacking educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and military and police officers. Noor Wali directed his men to “inflame the security situation in Pakistan,” suggesting a method to conduct bombings on schools or hospitals without claiming responsibility. He also suggested that homes of police and army personnel be destroyed. Other voices heard in the call have been identified as local commanders Ahmad Hussain Mehsud alias Ghat Haji, and Saqib Gandapur. In the call, Noor Wali asked his men to keep the call confidential. This development gives credence to Pakistan’s consistent claims that is certain the TTP leadership is based in Afghanistan and is using Afghan soil to conduct terrorist activities in Pakistan. (“TTP chief’s leaked call exposes terror plots in Pakistan,” The News International, 20 July 2024)
  
Foreign Office asks “foreign capitals” to stay away from Pakistan’s domestic affairs
On 19 July, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch asked foreign capitals to stay away from Pakistan’s domestic affairs. She was responding to remarks made by the US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller over the government’s decision to ban PTI. Miller had stated that it “is a matter of great concern” for the US. In this regard, Baloch stated “The recent decisions by Pakistani courts, including the Supreme Court of Pakistan, show the strengths of Pakistan’s legal and judicial system and the ability of the Pakistani nation to deal with domestic challenges. Commentary from abroad is therefore unwarranted and unacceptable interference in Pakistan’s domestic affairs.”
Separately, she also clarified that the purpose of the recent demarche to Afghanistan is to convey “deep concern over the involvement of the Gul Bahadur group, that is based in Afghanistan,” and Pakistan’s expectation from Afghanistan to take action. She also indicated that Afghan authorities are aware of the whereabouts of these individuals, groups, and their sponsors. She also clarified Pakistan’s position and its policy on deporting illegal Afghan immigrants under the immigration laws and urged Malala Yousafzai, the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize to encourage the countries accepting these Afghan refugees to expedite their repatriation. While responding to a recent judgment from a Kenyan court regarding the murder of journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya, she refused to comment on the “substance of the case, since it remains subjudice in Pakistan.” In addition, she announced the upcoming visit by the Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, from 22 July to 24 July to hold talks with the Pakistani leadership on bilateral relations and regional/global developments. (Mariana Baabar, “Pakistan asks foreign capitals to refrain from interfering in its domestic affairs,” The News International, 20 July 2024)

POLITICS
Opposition leader Omar Ayub accuses intelligence agencies of interfering in parliamentarians’ affairs
On 18 July, during a meeting between PTI leaders and Imran Khan, the party accused intelligence agencies of interfering in the parliamentarians’ affairs and asked them to focus on counter-terrorism efforts. Opposition leader Omar Ayub expressed confidence that “no one could break and ban PTI,” and warned the powers trying to invoke Article 6 against Khan and ban the PTI. He also claimed that Article 6 should be invoked against the Chief Election Commissioner, and noted Khan’s steadfastness in continuing the PTI’s struggle for “haqeeqi azadi” (real freedom). Ayub asked the government to focus on public-related issues like high inflation, instead of working on banning PTI. In addition, he alleged that the caretaker government was responsible for the “wheat import scandal” and that the current government was making profits through privatization. He additionally accused the Special Investment Facilitation Council of planning to gain PKR 30 billion by privatizing PKR 1000 billion worth of government assets. (Ikram Junaidi, “Bid to break, ban PTI will fail, says Omar Ayub,” Dawn, 19 July 2024)
 
TLP protestors stay adamant in their demands; road blockades persist
On 19 July, Dawn reported that Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah held discussions with the leadership of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), in a bid to clear the roads as the residents continued suffering due to the blockade of the main intersection between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Tarar explained that the government was avoiding the use of force to prevent further chaos in other parts of the country as well, and acknowledged the protestors’ challenging the writ of the state. During the discussion, the TLP presented three demands, including the “immediate dispatch of relief goods and items of medical needs to the people of Gaza, declaring Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ‘a terrorist’ and boycotting all Israeli products at the official level.” TLP Chief Hafiz Saad Rizvi declared that the party would not back from its demands and their struggle, including the Faizabad protest, until the demands are met. When asked about the public inconvenience, he blamed the government for ignoring their calls and stated: “But why is the government so afraid of the Israeli pressure? We need to stand on our feet and have belief in our faith.” A senior official of the interior ministry referred to the demands and stated that Pakistan does not recognize the state of Israel, and there are “no Israeli products or services available in Pakistan. (Kalbe Ali and Aamir Yasin, “TLP protesters stick to demands as residents continue to suffer road blockades,” Dawn, 19 July 2024)
 
ECP meeting on PTI’s reserved seats verdict remains inconclusive
On 18 July, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) held a meeting to discuss the Supreme Court’s (SC) verdict on PTI’s reserved seat eligibility and its implementation. However, a decision was not reached and an official hinted at the possibility of the ECP needing directions from the SC due to a lack of clarity. The meeting witnessed presentations from several aspects of the case. A senior ECP official noted that the notifications of 39 PTI MNAs who mentioned their affiliation with the party are clear, but the documents of 41 MNAs required “detailed scrutiny.” According to the SC judgment, the 41 MNAs have to be notarized before the ECP within 15 days. Following this, the ECP will publish the list of the returned candidates. However, ECP officials have raised concerns and sought further direction from the SC over who in the PTI should be contacted for verification, blaming the party’s lack of structure. (Iftikhar A. Khan and Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “ECP at a loss over SC reserved seats verdict,” Dawn, 19 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Pakistan Stock Exchange hits a new record reaching above 81,800 points
On 18 July, bulls dominated proceedings at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), with the KSE-100 index hitting a new record high above 81,800 points as investor optimism remained robust. Ahsan Mehanti, MD of Arif Habib Corporation stated: “Stocks closed at an all-time high as investors weighed Fitch Ratings’ projections of a cut in the SBP policy rate to 14 per cent, economic growth rising to 3.2 per cent, expansion of the agriculture sector, the slowdown in inflation and reduction in fiscal deficit to 6.7 per cent.”  At the trading end, the KSE-100 index recorded a hike of 684.25 points, or 0.84 per cent, and settled at 81,839.86. Further, investors also reacted positively to Fitch Ratings’ projections of a reduction in the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) policy rate to 14 per cent and an increase in economic growth to 3.2 per cent. Investor interest was also fuelled by Pakistan’s agreement of USD seven billion with the IMF. Additionally, Topline Securities in their report mentioned that the Pakistan stock market secured a strong momentum driven by sectors like fertilizer, E&P, banking, and auto, supported by companies like Engro Corporation, United Bank, Oil and Gas Development Company, Millat Tractors, and Meezan Bank. The topline added that these sectors together added 423 points. The overall trading volumes increased to 470.3 million shares from 441.3. A total of 457 companies’ shares were traded, in which 242 stocks closed higher, 155 fell and 60 remained unchanged. (“PSX hits new record high as it crosses 81,800,” The Express Tribune, 19 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan hosts 97th anniversary of founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army
On 18 July, Pakistan hosted an event commemorating the 97th anniversary of the founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), at the General Headquarters of the Pakistani Army at Rawalpindi. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, was the chief guest at the event. Major General Wang Zhong, Defence Attaché, officials from the Chinese Embassy, and officers from Pakistan’s tri-services participated in the event. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir, commended the PLA’s contribution to China's defence, security, and national development. He stated: “Relations between the Pakistan Army and the People’s Liberation Army are strong and both militaries continue to engage in bilateral military cooperation, demonstrating the iron-clad brotherhood between the two countries.” Further, Zaidong expressed his gratitude for the event and stated: “We stand ready to work with our brethren to combat terrorism and firmly believe that no force can destroy the iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan and the brotherhood between the two militaries.” (“Pakistan hosts 97th anniversary of Chinese PLA at GHQ,” The Express Tribune, 18 July 2024)
 
“Regional states need to maintain alertness, particularly Pakistan to prevent IS’s blood-soaked legacy” says an editorial in Dawn
On 19 July, an editorial in Dawn, titled ‘Oman terror attack’ discussed the recent sectarian terror attack that took place in the “peaceful sultanate of Oman,” where militants of the Islamic State group attacked a mosque during the Muharram ceremony. Following the attack, Omani police said that three suspects, all brothers and Omani nationals, were responsible and were killed upon resisting security forces. The article stated that Oman has avoided terrorist violence, unlike other Gulf neighbours. In Oman, the Ibadi school dominates the Sultanate with the Sunni majority and a small Shia minority. Similarly, Oman’s politics has also played a role in bridging Iran and Saudi Arabia and helped maintain diplomatic contacts. Thus, the attack was a bid to instigate “sectarian tensions in the sultanate.” The article also cautioned that the IS is next door in Yemen, and urged the Omani authorities to stay “vigilant.”  The editorial further cited the previous attacks of the IS group in Russia and Iran, and claimed that the group has now turned towards “soft targets.” Regional states should thus keep their eyes open, particularly Pakistan, not only due to the history of its “sectarian violence,” but also because of fighting in “IS-Khorasan ‘province’ in the Afghanistan borders. The article warned that the remnants of decade-long IS terrorist outfit should not be allowed to “rebuild and continue its blood-soaked legacy.” (“Oman terror attack,” Dawn, 19 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
“Taliban owe a response in humility,” asserts an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 19 July, an editorial in The Express Tribune titled ‘Is Kabul Listening’ detailed the deteriorating relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The editorial argued that Islamabad’s demand to Kabul to “act instantly against the dreaded elements” is nothing new. It claimed that this signalled how both countries were back at “square one,” as similar demands were made over the last two years. However, the articles observed that there was “either inaction or act instantly against the dreaded elements.” Further, it discussed the terror attack on Bannu Cantonment, where ten terrorists killed eight Pakistani soldiers. Following this attack, the foreign office issued a demarche. The “audacity” of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur militant group to “claim responsibility should have incited action from Kabul on its own, as the rogue elements are based in Afghanistan.” Consistent “excuses from Kabul against the TTP” will just push Islamabad “to the wall.” The editorial advised Kabul to see how its decision to “ignore the sensitivity of the issue is inflicting unparalleled damage not only on interstate relations but also on regionalism.” (“Is Kabul listening?,” The Express Tribune, 19 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
PBS report says Pakistan’s population growth rate is the highest in the region
On 18 July, the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, unveiled a report by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), titled: “First Ever Digital Census Key Findings Report,” in which Pakistan ranked as the fifth most populous country in the world. It also noted that Pakistan has the highest growth rate at 2.55 per cent in the region and added that if it continues, the country will double in 2050. The report further provided the data for the development of urban and rural areas and effective disaster response. The census data detailed that Karachi is the most populous city (20.4 million), and Lahore is the second most populous city (13 million). These are followed by Peshawar (4.76 million), and Quetta (2.59 million). In the overall population of the country, males represent 51.48 per cent and females' data stand at 48.51 per cent. The data also observed that the dominant religion is Islam, and the literacy indicators detail that 61 per cent are literate (ten years and above). The federal minister stated that the data gathered by PBS “will be instrumental in guiding our development efforts and enhancing our ability to respond to natural calamities.”(“Pakistan's population growth 'highest in region',” The News International, 18 July 2024)
 
ENVIRONMENT/CLIMATE CHANGE
“We are still focusing on firefighting rather than diverting our resources to better urban planning,” says editorial in Dawn
On 19 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Urban flooding’ said that despite precautionary measures taken by provincial authorities to cope with monsoon-related emergencies, “millions of dwellers,” especially in Punjab and KP, will have to prepare for “urban flooding and flash floods.” Pakistani cities have experienced “extreme episodes of rain-inflicted flooding that has claimed lives and destroyed property” over the last few decades because they are not prepared to deal with “unpredictable rains.” The damage from these rains, which are increasing in frequency due to climate change, cannot be mitigated through “temporary measures.” As per the editorial, even developed cities are experiencing urban flooding, as “unplanned urbanization” has created “perfect conditions for pluvial flooding.” Thus, Pakistani authorities must concentrate on solutions such as “climate-resilient urban infrastructure” that will protect the people and the economy. However, authorities are “focusing on firefighting” instead of diverting resources to better urban planning. Since Pakistan is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, it should invest in “urban governance, storm-water drainage,” and other measures. Without a “financially empowered local government system” that takes these steps, the country will “only be putting out fires and not preventing them.” (“Urban flooding,” Dawn, 19 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Sindh CM declines PPP’s support to ban any “political party”
On 17 July, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stressed that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has never supported “any move to ban a political party.” While addressing the media, CM Murad urged the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to “adhere to political norms” and stated: “The PTI will have to review its role if it is demonstrating political behavior or not.” His statement comes after the recent announcement by the government of its decision to ban the PTI for “alleged involvement in anti-state activities.” Further, the decision to ban the PTI has drawn criticism from various political actors including veteran PPP leaders Farhatullah Babar and Mian Raza Rabbani. Rabbani emphasized that banning political parties is against “norms of democracy” and urged the government to refrain from such moves. Babar described the idea of a treason case against a political leader as “absurd,” arguing that such decisions would further deepen the political crisis. In this regard, PPPP Secretary General Nayyar Hussain Bokhari said that these leaders merely expressed their opinions and assured that the PPP announced its position only through its spokesperson or relevant persons. (“PPP not in favour of ban on any party: CM Murad,” The News International, 17 July 2024)
 
A Fitch firm’s Risk report on Pakistan predicts Imran Khan’s continued incarceration and toppling of the PML-N led coalition  
On 18 July, BMI, a Fitch Solutions company in its Pakistan Country Risk Report pertaining to the fourth quarter of the calendar year 2024, forecasted that Imran Khan is “unlikely to walk free anytime soon.” In this regard, BMI stated that “Despite several successful legal appeals, opposition leader Imran Khan will remain imprisoned for the foreseeable future.” The report also claimed that the PM Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government may prove “house of cards” in the next one and half years. However, the report also noted that the current coalition government will succeed in IMF-mandated fiscal reforms and will continue to remain in power for the next 18 months. It further warned of possibilities for negative events that would affect growth, stating that, “odds of setbacks, slowdowns, or other adverse consequences are greater than the chances of improvements.”  It further observed that the country’s “fragile political situation could also derail the recovery.” The risk assessment report warned that the risk may erupt from political instability and climatic conditions. Regarding the economic sector, the report projected an increase in growth from 2.4 per cent in FY2024-2025 to 3.2 per cent in FY 2024-2025. The Fitch firm added that “The key risk to this forecast is towards faster-than-expected inflation, which would cause policymakers to slow their easing cycle.” (Ashraf Malkham, “Govt may last only 18 more months, Imran Khan unlikely to walk free soon: Fitch,” The News International, 18 July 2024) 
  
ECONOMY
IMF agreement increases funding prospects for Pakistan, says Moody’s
On 17 July, Global rating agency Moody’s indicated that the staff-level agreement between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pakistan has enhanced the country’s funding prospects. It also highlighted that the sustainability of reforms will be key to mitigating liquidity risks. IMF and Pakistan signed a staff-level agreement on a 37-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement worth approximately USD 7 billion. However, the date of the vote has not yet been announced. In this regard, Moody’s stated that: “If approved, which we expect is likely, the new IMF program will improve Pakistan’s (Caa3 stable) funding prospects. The program will provide credible sources of financing from the IMF and catalyze funding from other bilateral and multilateral partners to meet Pakistan’s external financing needs.” Despite this, Moody’s advised the government to be consistent in achieving a “durable easing of liquidity risks.” The new IMF Extended Fund Facility (EFF) comes with strict reform conditions like broadening the tax base, eliminating exemptions, adjusting energy tariffs, improving state-owned enterprise management and privatization, phasing out agricultural subsidies, and liberalizing trade policy. Further, Moody's also warned that “A resurgence of social tensions due to the high cost of living—which may increase because of higher taxes and future adjustments to energy tariffs—could hinder reform implementation.” (“IMF agreement bolsters Pakistan’s funding prospects: Moody’s,” The News International, 17 July 2024)
 
IMF projects 3.5 per cent economic growth in Pakistan which falls below the government's target
On 17 July, The Express Tribune reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has estimated that the economy of Pakistan will witness a 3.5 per cent growth rate in the fiscal year 2024-2025. This projection, however, is below the Pakistan government’s 3.6 per cent target. According to Pakistan's economic survey, the government could only achieve a growth of 2.4 per cent in GDP during the fiscal year 2023-2024 which failed to meet the 3.5 per cent target set by the government. Pakistan’s economy was set back by several factors like chronic mismanagement, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions from the Ukraine war, and devastating floods in 2022.
Similarly, IMF in its World Economic Outlook cautioned a modest global economic growth for the next two years mainly due to challenges from “cooling activity in the US, a bottoming-out in Europe, and stronger consumption and exports in China.” IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva described these current global economic projections as “tepid twenties.” In addition, IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, underscored that the major global economies’ growth is “aligned.” IMF increased the growth forecast for China to 5per cent for 2024 and the 2025 forecast was raised to 4.5 per cent. Further, the IMF warned of “persistent inflation risks, with elevated service prices and wage growth in labor-intensive sectors.” (Irshad Ansari, “IMF forecasts 3.5% growth for Pakistan in FY25, slightly below govt's target,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2024)
 
ADB Outlook report predicts high inflation for Pakistan in the current fiscal year
On 17 July, The Express Tribune reported that latest the Asian Development Bank Outlook report has predicted high inflation in Pakistan for the current fiscal year. The outlook report raised the economic growth forecast for developing Asia and the Pacific from 4.9 per cent to 5 Per cent and highlighted a more challenging outlook for Pakistan. It mentioned that the inflation rate which had declined from 38 Per cent to 11.8 Per cent will keep surging upwards. It further noted that the country’s debt will see a reduction of 7 per cent from 77 per cent to 70 per cent. Despite this positive forecast, it highlighted that the country’s 62 per cent of revenue will go towards debt repayment during FY2024-2025. The report stated that though the global food prices are predicted to ease, some parts of the country will continue to face high food inflation due to “adverse weather and export restrictions.” (“ADB forecasts high inflation for Pakistan in current fiscal year,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
“People play a pivotal role in any counterterrorism operation,” says an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 17 July, in an opinion in The Express Tribune titled “Importance of public support in CT operation,” Faisal Ali Raja highlighted the importance of “public support” and people in the success of a counter-terrorism operation. He argued that it is important to “keep the sympathies of the public on the side of the incumbent” as the militants also try to garner local support. Raja also highlighted a dilemma that often complicates government action: It is difficult for the state to gauge the “mood of local population” and on the other hand it must act quickly against militants as they “keep on upping the ante with each passing day.” Further, the loss suffered by the locals both at the hands of militants and government action has induced “a sense of detachment and indifference in the hearts and minds of people.” This has made people “neutral in the conflict” and they have become “non-partisan — like spectators in any event.” Raja revealed that this pattern is not unique to Pakistan and “the pattern of public alienation to a CT” can be observed from “Africa to South Asia.” Raja has suggested that before an operation is launched “effort should be made to convince people or at least incentivise them to side the state.” (Faisal Ali Raja, “Importance of public support in CT operation,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
Netblock reports restriction on access to Facebook across multiple service providers in the country
On 17 July, Internet monitor Netblocks revealed “a restriction on access to social media platform Facebook”  during Yaum-i-Ashura or Muharram 10 celebration, across multiple service providers in the country. Yaum-i-Ashura is observed every year to pay ‘homage’ to Imam Husain and other deceased persons of Karbala. In this regard, Netblock stated: “authorities typically restrict mobile internet services” on the occasion. Down Detector, which tracks outages from several sources also confirmed issues in accessing Facebook and Instagram social media platforms.
Earlier, the Balochistan government had also announced mobile phone suspension and internet service blockings during the four days of the occasion. Separately, the Punjab government had also requested the Interior minister to shut down media platforms to control hate speech and misinformation to avoid “sectarian violence.” In response, the Interior minister had deferred the request and stated that PM Shehbaz Sharif will take a final decision in this regard. (“Facebook restricted across multiple service providers in Pakistan: NetBlocks,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)
 
ENVIRONMENT
NDMA issues urban flood alerts to KP and Punjab while KP and Gilgit Baltistan receive GOLF alert
On 17 July, the National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) Emergencies Operation Centre issued an alert warning the possibility of urban flooding in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and other parts of the country due to heavy monsoon rain. The rains are likely to hit Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Islamabad, KP, central and northeastern Punjab from 17 July to 21 July. Earlier, on 15 July, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) mentioned that all four provinces including PoK and Gilgit Baltistan (GB) regions are likely to receive rains and thunderstorms. Furthermore, NDMA in its statement cautioned of strong winds and lightning strikes and advised the responsible departments to take necessary precautions to prevent and mitigate possible effects of flooding.
Similarly, NDMA has issued an alert on possible Glacial Outburst Floods (GOLF) in the mountainous regions of KP and Balochistan due to rising temperatures and anticipated heavy rainfall. Further, the NDMA directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Gilgit Baltistan Disaster Management Authority to cooperate with relevant departments to ensure necessary preparations and emergency response measures. Additionally, departments have been instructed to alert the local communities, tourists, and travelers in the risk areas. NDMA also launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application to provide timely alerts and guidelines. Many glaciers in parts of Gilgit Baltistan have been melting over several years. Earlier, in 2022, as a result of floods due to heavy rains, and glacial melt, over 1700 people had been killed. (“KP, Punjab cities 'at risk of urban flooding' due to monsoon rain,” The News International, 18 July 2024; “NDMA issues GLOF alert for KP, Gilgit Baltistan,” The News International, 17 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistani students urged to keep away from the ongoing violent protests in Bangladesh
On 17 July, The News International reported that the Pakistan High Commission in Bangladesh has urged Pakistani students to keep away from the ongoing violent protests in Bangladesh and “take safety precautions.” The advisory comes amidst violence that has seen six people killed. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar spoke to High Commissioner Syed Ahmad Maroof and took a stock of the situation, enquiring about the “welfare of Pakistanis in Bangladesh.” High Commissioner Maroof informed Dar that a helpline had been opened to ensure access to help. Dar also urged Maroof to be in touch with the local authorities to ensure the welfare of Pakistanis living in Bangladesh, “especially the students living in the Dhaka campus.” Separately, the United States has “urged Bangladesh to uphold the right to peaceful protest.” US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement “We condemn any violence against peaceful protesters. We've been watching this matter very closely, both from our embassy and officials here in Washington.”  (“Pakistani students in Bangladesh asked to stay away from protests,” The News International, 17 July 2024; “US calls on Bangladesh to uphold right to peaceful protests,” The News International, 18 July 2024)
  
AF-PAK
Pakistan issues “strong demarche” to Afghanistan and demands “immediate action” against the terrorists of the Bannu Cantonment attack
On 17 July, the Pakistan government issued a “strong demarche” to Afghanistan after a terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment that happened on 15 July. The government also demanded the Taliban-led Afghan government to take “immediate action” against the perpetrators of the attack. On 16 July, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in its statement mentioned that the attack killed at least eight Pakistan Army soldiers while the militants attempted to enter the facility. The Foreign Office (FO) noted the summoning of the deputy head of mission of the embassy of Afghanistan in Islamabad to “deliver Pakistan’s strong demarche.” The FO claimed in its statement that the attack was carried out by the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group based in Afghanistan which is responsible for the loss of lives of numerous citizens and officials in various attacks inside Pakistan. The statement added that the country has urged Afghanistan to take “immediate, robust and effective action against the perpetrators of the Bannu attack,” and to prevent repetition of such attacks inside Pakistan. In addition, it stressed its “commitment to combat this menace and to uphold its security against all threats.”
Similarly, ISPR stated that the security forces’ timely action prevented a “major catastrophe” and saved several lives. It further lauded the “gallant and selfless action of the security forces.” The ISPR statement mentioned the earlier call from Islamabad to Afghanistan, demanding the extradition of terrorist Gal Bahadur who is the leader of the TTP’s outlawed faction, Hafiz Gul Bahadur group. (“Islamabad urges Kabul to take 'immediate action' against terrorists involved in Bannu attack,” The News International, 17 July 2024)
 
US urges Afghan Taliban to refrain from launching terrorist attacks from their soil
On 16 July, the US State Department urged the Afghan Taliban to refrain from carrying out terrorist attacks from their soil and backed Pakistan’s efforts against terrorism. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller commented on the terrorist attack on the Rural Health Center (RHC) in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Pakistan and stated that these were terrorists coming from the “safe haven in Afghanistan.” He stressed the efforts taken by the US and Pakistan to counter terrorism and stated: “We have a shared interest with the Pakistani people and the government of Pakistan in combating threats to regional security.” Earlier on 15 and 16 July, the terrorists attacked the Rural Health Center (RHC), Kirri Shamozai in the Dera Ismail Khan District and fired indiscriminately on the RHC staff in which seven people including two security forces, and five civilians died.
Additionally, Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder expressed his grievances about the loss of lives. He said: “Pakistan is in a tough fight at times when it comes to fighting terrorists in the region. And so, certainly saddened to - to hear that.” When asked about Pakistan’s demand for modern weapons from the US to deal with such situations, the spokesperson stated “I'm sure that those discussions are happening via those mechanisms to look at Pakistan's requirements and - and what the US can do to support.” (“US urges Taliban to ensure terrorist attacks are not launched from Afghan soil,” The News International, 17 July 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
“Islamabad should not wait until a positive initiative from Modi” to devote efforts “achieving peace and stability,” argues an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 17 July, in an opinion in The Express Tribune titled “Modi’s Pakistan policy,” Dr Shuja Ahmed Mahesar argued that Prime Minister Modi’s “anti-Muslim rhetoric and his aggressive stance during the BJP’s general election campaign did not contribute much to his electoral success.” On the contrary, his “hostile attitude towards Pakistan” solidified his image as a “fascist leader and a bitter enemy of peace.” According to Mahesar, this hindered the BJP from securing a two-thirds majority in the general elections. Due to this setback, Mahesar believes that the Modi government would is likely to move towards course-correction in their third consecutive term and not indulge in “the politics of hate” against India’s 250 million Muslims. Mahesar also alleged that after the break down of diplomatic relations between the two countries in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack, “India began to carry out terrorist activities in Pakistan.” Mahesar further emphasized that “a change in Modi’s diplomatic approach may pave the way for a dialogue between Pakistan and India and improve relations between the two countries.” Further, he advised that Modi must “initiate a dialogue for peace” with Pakistan rather than indulge in “putting pressure on the country through different forums, including BRICS.” He also stressed that given Pakistan’s experience in countering terrorism both countries must cooperate in eradicating terrorism from the South Asian region. Given that both countries are vulnerable to climate change related challenges, they must “jointly fight climatic catastrophes.” Mahesar concluded by stating that even if there are no peace overtures from India, “Pakistan should not wait until a positive initiative from Modi” and “should demonstrate positivity by devoting energies to achieving peace and stability.” (Dr Shuja Ahmed Mahesar, “Modi’s Pakistan policy,” The Express Tribune, 17 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Final decision on banning PTI to be taken after consulting allies, clarifies PML-N
On 16 July, the PML-N assured that no final decision had been made on banning the PTI, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stating: “We need to consult our leadership and allies in this regard. Any decision to ban PTI will be made in accordance with the law and Constitution.” He added that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had documents proving that the PTI “is a foreign-funded party.” Meanwhile, the PPP continued to withhold its official reaction to the decision while the PML-Q cautioned against a hasty execution. A senior leader from the Nawaz camp, Mian Javed Latif, warned that “weakening” national political parties “is not in the best interest of the country.” Defence Minister Khawaja Asif echoed sentiments similar to Dar’s, stating that a “final decision would be taken only after consulting with the government’s political allies.” He also criticized the US for expressing “deep concern” over the decision, and remarked that the “US should also show concern for the oppression and persecution in Gaza.” Also on 16 July, a source told Dawn that Nawaz Sharif had “reluctantly agreed to the proposal to ban the PTI as he was told that his younger brother’s government has to do it.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “PML-N promises to consult allies over PTI ban,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)
 
Defence minister says judiciary should not give verdicts that are “political in nature”
On 16 July, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called on courts to refrain from giving “political verdicts” in accordance with the Constitution, saying that “courts should also get themselves respected and the politicians should not be mistaken as being too weak.” This statement came following the Supreme Court’s (SC) short order in the reserved seats case, which granted the PTI to have its reserved seats for women and non-Muslims. He accused the PTI leaders of lobbying to persuade foreign powers to speak against Pakistan. Asif questioned whether an “institution not commit contempt as it does not dispose of 2.6 million cases,” and emphasized that the judiciary “needs to make itself worthy of respect by giving verdicts in line with the Constitution — that are not political in nature.” He also questioned why the judiciary had not taken notice of the 2018 election results. (“Khawaja Asif urges courts to refrain from ‘political verdicts’,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
“The decision to ban PTI is yet another sign of the state’s desperation,” says an opinion in Dawn
On 17 July, in an opinion in Dawn titled ‘Shadow of authoritarianism,’ Zahid Hussain wrote on the “senseless, self-destructive” decision of the government to ban the PTI, which regardless of implementation, had “jolted the foundations of the existing political power structure.” The recent ruling in favour of the PTI in the reserved seats case came as a “serious blow to the military-backed dispensation,” and was a “damning indictment of the establishment’s efforts to suppress the PTI.” Despite Imran Khan being acquitted in multiple cases and fresh cases being framed to prevent his release, he has remained the “most powerful political leader threatening the establishment-dominated regime.” Hussain described that the “reckless decision” to ban the PTI is “another sign of desperation to hold onto sliding power” and has put the “entire system at the stake.” He claimed that the establishment is evidently behind the plan, highlighting the irony over the fact that Nawaz Sharif, who was removed from power has “become an instrument in the establishment’s game plan,” proving that he has not “learnt any lesson from his own political history.” Though the PML-N has said its coalition partners are on board, statements from these parties have exposed the “divide within,” with the PPP saying it had not even been consulted on the decision. Thus, without the support of any major political party, the “establishment stands isolated.” Though it is unlikely that the apex court will approve the ban, even if it does, the PTI’s “support base will not diminish.” Hussain asserted that if the “election results had not been manipulated,” the PTI would have won a majority in parliament. He concluded by saying that the “shadow of authoritarianism is looming large” at a time when Pakistan is facing economic and security challenges and needs “political reconciliation rather than confrontation.” (Zahid Hussain, “Shadow of authoritarianism,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)
 
PTI chairman claims appointment of retired judges is linked to SC’s reserved seats verdict
On 16 July, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan called the proposal of appointing ad hoc judges at the Supreme Court  an “uncalled-for” move and linked it to the “PTI’s reserved seats judgment.” He expressed suspicion about the proposal and wrote on X: “The move to appoint ad-hoc judges and that too four judges at once and during vacation is uncalled-for and is unprecedented.” Earlier on 12 July, the Supreme Court (SC) in its short order allowed PTI to have reserved seats for women and minorities in all legislatures including the National Assembly. Following this move, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) announced that it was considering appointing retired judges to look after the pending cases in the SC. Khan connected both developments and argued that there has been no single ad hoc judge appointment since 2015. He noted that it had been “decided in principle that adhocism is prejudicial to the independent judiciary,’ meaning the move to “unprecedented” move of appointing adhoc judges would “compromise the entire SC and its judges.” (“PTI links SC retired judges appointment to reserved seats verdict,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
“Using the ‘backlog’ is just an excuse,” says opposition leader on appointing retired judges
On 16 July, the PTI opposed the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) to appoint retired judges to clear backlog cases, calling on the judges to decline the offer. The leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, wrote on X that “CJ Qazi Faez Essa’s [Isa] new ploy to appoint Ad Hoc Judges is nothing but a ploy to ‘fix’ the bench. Using the ‘backlog’ is just an excuse. Target is something else.” He urged the judges to decline the offer if they want to lead a “positive legacy” path and warned that if they did not do so, the nation would remember them as “rubber stamps.” (Ikram Junaidi, “PTI rejects SC plan to appoint retired judges,” Dawn, 17 June 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Plan to double exports “over the next three years is nothing more than wishful thinking,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 17 July, an editorial in Dawn titled, ‘Export delusions’ described the trade ministry’s plan of doubling exports to USD 60 over the next three years as being “nothing more than wishful thinking.” This compares with the IMF projection of a 22 per cent increase in exports during the targeted period, but the editorial questioned whether the new target is backed by a “solid plan or strategy.” Pakistan will need to maintain a consistent growth in its foreign sales by nearly 25 to 30 per cent a year to double its export earnings in the next three years, which requires “vast private investments both in industry and agriculture.” However, given a lack of evidence of “any such thing happening in the foreseeable future,” it can be said that “this fantastic target will remain elusive.” Over the last few decades, Pakistan’s economy has been battling “stagnating exports,” which have been marked by marginal gains in their value and falling global market share. Exporters have said high energy prices, fluctuations in global demand, and domestic policy shifts are the reason behind “their poor performance.” The editorial acknowledged that while these constraints “impede export development,” their impact is “clearly exaggerated by the powerful textile lobby that wants to retain its benefits.” The failure to diversify exports, improve productivity, and enhance technology is just as much to blame. To conclude, the editorial advised that while Pakistan must “increase exports to bridge its trade deficit,” this cannot be done by “coming up with a target that is not backed by a solid plan to increase investment and productivity.” (“Export delusions,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Terrorists kill 15 people in two separate attacks in KP; ISPR blamed Hafiz Gul Bahadur
On 16 July, at least 15 people, including ten soldiers, were killed in two separate attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (KP) Dera Ismail Khan (DIK) and Bannu regions. As per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), on the night between 15 and 16 July, terrorists entered a rural health centre (RHC) in DIK’s Kirri Shamozai area, killing five civilians and two army personnel. Hours before this, militants entered the cantonment in Bannu, opening “indiscriminate fire” on staff and civilians. The ISPR stated that in the early hours of 15 July, ten terrorists attacked the cantonment, and since security forces effectively thwarted this attempt, the terrorists rammed “an explosive-laden vehicle into the perimeter wall of the cantonment.” An ensuing operation by security forces killed all ten terrorists. In its statement, the ISPR banned the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group for the “heinous act of terrorism,” claiming that the group “operates from Afghanistan and has used Afghan soil to orchestrate acts of terrorism inside Pakistan in the past as well.”
 
After the situation died down, on 16 July, on the call of the Bannu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, local elders, political leaders, and activists participated in a rally to call for peace in the region. The Vice President of the chamber, Nasir Bangash, stated that “people will not receive any compensation for their relatives killed in terrorist attacks,” and instead their deaths would be avenged. A complete shutter-down strike on 19 July and a grand peace jirga on 21 July were also announced. Leaders including the prime minister, federal interior minister, and KP governor strongly condemned the attack. Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan also expressed condolences. (Ghulam Mursalin Marwat & Muhammad Irfan Mughal, “Ten army men martyred in south KP attacks,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)

Police force tightens security ahead of Ashura processions in Rawalpindi
On 17 July, Dawn reported that over 6,000 police officers had been deployed in Rawalpindi to ensure security during the Ashura processions, and were tasked with closely monitoring online spaces to curb the spread of religious and communal hatred. Senior Superintendent of Police Operations, Hafiz Kamran Asghar, asserted: “Legal action will be taken against those who spread religious and communal hatred on social media, while all senior officers will be present in the field to personally monitor the security arrangements.” He further assured that his team “used effective communication methods and deployed extensively.” The security measures included the deployment of 6,000 policemen, 900 traffic police officers, and more than 2,900 additional personnel to provide foolproof security for the main procession of ten Muharram, along with 65 other processions and 113 ‘majalis’. The entry points will have a full body search of participants and the procession routes be thoroughly searched by bomb disposal squads with sharpshooters deployed on rooftops. (Mohammad Asghar, “Police on toes to curb online hate, protect Ashura processions in Rawalpindi,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)

EXTERNAL
Terrorist attack in Oman kills six, including four Pakistanis
On 16 July, the Islamic State (IS) state militant group claimed responsibility for a terrorist attack which killed six, including four Pakistanis and one Omani policeman, at the Imambargah Ali ibn Abi Talib mosque near Muscat. The attack targeted a gathering of mourners commemorating the death of Imam Hussain. The Foreign Office (FO) stated that 30 Pakistanis were injured during the shooting and had been taken to various hospitals. Further, the FO noted that the Omani police confirmed that three attackers had been neutralized. The Pakistani ambassador to Oman, Imran Ali, stated that at least 50 Pakistani expatriates were injured in the attack, and that the Indian embassy in Muscat reported one Indian national had been killed and another injured. Though attacks on Shia mosques have plagued the Gulf, the attack was the first for Oman.
 
Pakistan, Oman, and the US condemned the incident. Omani police stated on X that “all necessary security measures and procedures have been taken to handle the situation,” and added investigations were under process to uncover the “circumstances surrounding the incident.” The US embassy in Muscat issued a security alert and cancelled all visa appointments. The Foreign Minister of Oman, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, expressed his condolences. Similarly, Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed their condolences and promised assistance to the victims and their families. Sharif reiterated his vow to eradicate terrorism and warned the supporting elements would be brought to justice. Additionally, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the attack. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Four Pakistanis among six slain in rare Muscat terror,” Dawn, 17 June 2024; “PM Shehbaz condemns loss of life in DI Khan, Muscat attacks,” The Express Tribune, 17 June 2024)

CLIMATE CHANGE
US ecologist says temperature in multiple Pakistani cities will increase by five to six degrees
On 17 July, Dawn reported on a web app developed by Professor Matthew Fitzpatrick, an ecologist at the University of Maryland in the US, that predicts the future climate of over 40,000 cities, including major cities in Pakistan. The app, called CityApp also uses data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). It detailed the climate conditions for Pakistan, showing that many regions would be on average five to six degrees Celsius warmer in summers, which could become “horrible” due to extreme heat and weather changes. The app summarized that Lahore’s summers are projected to be 4.7 degrees Celsius hotter and 21.2 per cent wetter by 2080, similar to the current climate of Khairpur, Sindh. If emissions are reduced, Lahore’s weather will become only 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer in 2028 and 19.2 per cent wetter in winter. The app also provided projections for the cities of Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta. Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change had warned in a report published earlier that many regions in the country would become “uninhabitable.” During an interview, Fitzpatrick explained that rapid warming over the past 150 years has been mainly driven by human activities like fossil fuel burning, and urgent action is needed to avert unprecedented climate changes by the end of the century. (Irfan Aslam, “Most cities to be 5-6 degrees Celsius warmer by 2080,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)
 
WORLD VIEW
“Trump remains a threat, Biden a liability,” says an opinion by Mahir Ali in Dawn
On 17 July, an opinion by Mahir Ali in Dawn titled, ‘After the fall’ highlighted that the “incumbent president’s physical and mental health remains a bigger cause for concern than that of his challenger” in American politics. He argued that the incident of attempted assassination against former US President Donald Trump will increase the chances of his re-election. US President Joe Biden's “apparent personal conviction” that he is the only one who can prevent Trump's return to power “does not stand up to scrutiny,” though no one can say that any other alternative to Biden would “be an adequate bulwark against” Trump. Ali stated that the “choreographed coronation” of Trump at the recent convention in Milwaukee was “reminiscent of a Nuremberg rally.” Though Trump has blamed the Democratic campaign for the violence, the motives of the shooter, who turned out to be Republican, are yet to be determined. However, the opinion stated it would be “surprising and disappointing” if Biden does not step aside before the Democratic Party’s equivalent event in Chicago in August. His record as a “borderline segregationist senator beholden to corporate America and the national security state” does not add up to much, and it is “insufficient to claim that Trump would be much worse.” (Mahir Ali, “After the fall,” Dawn, 17 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
37 MNAs submit their affidavit of allegiance for the PTI to the ECP
On 16 July, The News International reported that almost 37 MNAs out of 41 have submitted their “affidavit of allegiance” for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). An additional four of the 41 independent lawmakers supported by the PTI are anticipated to do the same in the next couple of days. Further, The News International was informed by senior PTI leader Shibli Faraz that three senators were in the process of sending relevant documents from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. He clarified that while Riaz Fatyana is being searched, the three lawmakers are Mobeen Arif, Umar Farooq, and Mehboob Sultan. (“Allegiance to PTI 37 out of 41 MNAs submit affidavits to ECP,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
President Zardari meets envoys from seven countries
On 15 July, during a ceremony at Aiwan-i-Sadr, envoys of seven countries including Zimbabwe, Tajikistan, Rwanda, Argentina, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Botswana presented their diplomatic credentials to President Asif Zardari. The president also offered massive investment opportunities and invited foreign countries to invest and benefit from those. He highlighted that the foreign investors should explore investment opportunities in agriculture, livestock, information technology, energy and mining sectors. Further, he expressed his desire to expand the cooperation with all the friendly countries especially in terms of trade, investment and culture. In addition, the President also held separate meetings with all the envoys. At last, he congratulated the envoys for their respective appointments as ambassador to Pakistan. (Kashif Abbasi, “Envoys of 7 countries present diplomatic credentials to president,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
Anti-Terrorism court grants 10-day physical remand for Imran Khan in 12 “9 May” cases
On 16 July, The News International reported that Imran Khan who was arrested in twelve 9 May cases was given a 10-day physical remand by an Anti-Terrorism Court. Imran Khan, who participated in the court’s hearing through a video link stated: “No one conducted an independent inquiry into the May 9 incidents. A petition was filed in the Supreme Court that there should be an independent inquiry into the May 9 incidents.” He further alleged that he was attacked at Gujranwala and wanted to file an FIR, but told the court that it was rejected. After the arguments were heard from the lawyers and the prosecution, the court granted a 10-day physical remand in 12 cases. Similarly, a National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team interrogated Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi at Adiala Jail regarding the Toshakhana case reference. Earlier, on 14 July, Imran Khan and his wife were remanded for eight days by the NAB team. (“ATC allows Imran’s physical remand in 12 May 9 cases,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
PML-N files petition in Supreme Court urging reversal of the reserved seats verdict
On 15 July, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) decided to seek the Supreme Court to recall its judgment on reserved seats. The PML-N claimed that the PTI was a separate party and was not entitled to the relief because it had not filed a similar plea before the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) or any other court. In its review petition, PML-N asked the Supreme Court to recall the ruling in the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) case and to suspend operations until the matter was resolved. Earlier, on 12 July, the apex court in its order had declared PTI eligible to receive reserved seats for women and minorities in the assemblies and also directed the 41 members who contested in the general elections as independent candidates to approach ECP within 15 days to present their party affiliation. This procedure, however, is not provided under the Constitution. In response to this move, PML-N in its petition alleged that the short order rewrites the constitution and claims these procedures are in “stark contradiction to the settled jurisprudence, the constitution and the Elections Act, 2017.” In the petition, it was also mentioned that the short order had provoked a controversy between parties regarding whether the SIC should be granted the reserved seats. In addition, the petition argues that the SIC was the only party that fought the entire case, however, the short order “went beyond the scope of the case, and thus could not be sustained.” It also urged the court to treat SIC and PTI as separate parties and claimed that the “PTI was not entitled to any relief.” (Nasir Iqbal, “PML-N knocks at SC door for review of reserved seats verdict,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
Supreme Court considers appointing retired judges to clear backlog cases
On 16 July, Dawn reported that the Supreme Court was considering appointing retired judges to hear over 54,000 pending cases. It was announced that the Judicial Comm­ission of Pakistan (JCP) — which appoints judges to superior courts will appoint four retired judges as ad hoc members of the court on 19 July 2024. The JCP will consider the names of retired justices Mushir Alam, Maqbool Baqar, Mazhar Alam Mian­khel, and Sardar Tariq Masood for the appointment. However, CJP in his note mentioned that the retired judges will be appointed only if three years have not expired since their retirement. This move is being considered following the record of huge pending cases and continuing new cases. The Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan in its bi-annual report observed that the overall pendency of cases in all courts increased by 3.9 per cent during the second half of 2023. Thereby, the record reaches 2.26 million pending cases. The report also details that almost 82 per cent of the pending cases rest at the district level and the Supreme Court, Federal Shariat Court, and High Courts holds responsible for the remaining 18 per cent of the cases. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC mulling appointment of retired judges to clear backlog,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
Lahore Anti-Terrorism court indicts Former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in 9 May case
On 15 July, Lahore anti-terrorism court indicted Former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi regarding the 9 May case filed at the Shadman police station. On 9 May last year, nationwide protests were demonstrated after the arrest of Imran Khan in a corruption case. Shadman police had filed a case against PTI leaders and activists for attacking and burning the police station. Last week, the prosecution had also shared a copy of the investigation report with Qureshi. Anti-Terrorism Court-I Judge Khalid Arshad held the hearing in Kot Lakhpat Jail where Qureshi pleaded guilty. Judge Arshad adjourned the next hearing till 18 July.
Similarly, in December, Qureshi was implicated in 12 different cases filed by the Rawalpindi district police relating to the 9 May cases. Later, he secured bail in 13 cases in February. He is currently imprisoned in Adiala Jail for eight cases related to the 9 May violence. (Rana Bilal, “Lahore ATC indicts PTI’s Shah Mahmood Qureshi in May 9 case,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Finance division notifies increase in fuel prices
On 16 July, the finance division issued a notification on the latest fuel prices in accordance with the Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) directives. The notification  revealed that the petrol price in Pakistan was increased by PKR 9.99 per litre for the next fortnight due to the rise of oil prices in the international market. This will be effective from 16 July. Similarly, the federal government increased the price of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) from PKR 277.45 per litre to PKR 283.63. This shows an increase of PKR 6.18 per litre. The statement reads: “The Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has worked out the consumer prices, based on the price variations in the international market.” Earlier, in the federal budget 2024-25, the government had increased the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) by PKR 10 per litre (from PKR 60 to PKR 70).  However, the finance division clarified that there will be no change in levies or duties under the new fuel prices, meaning the PDL remains PKR 60 per litre. This is the second time that the government has not increased the levy on petroleum products since the federal budget. (“Petrol price hiked by Rs9.99, diesel Rs6.18 per litre,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
ENVIRONMENT/CLIMATE CHANGE
Heavy monsoon rains and landslides hit Balochistan 
On 16 July, Dawn reported on Balochistan’s sustained monsoon rains and landslides. Monsoon rains have continued to hit northeastern and central parts of Balochistan, causing landslides and suspending traffic on the inter-provincial highway linking the province with Punjab. The Director General of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority highlighted that at least 17 districts have been listed under ‘high alert’ due to the rains. The Sulaiman Range received heavy rains, triggering a landslide along the inter-provincial highway between Barkhan and Dera Ghazi Khan. The heavy downpour and the landslide severely affected the traffic between Balochistan and southern Punjab. About 10-kilo meters of the road between Barkhan and D.G. Khan was damaged. A senior security official stated: “We are making all-out efforts to remove the boulders and mud from the inter-provincial highway.” In Kohlu and Dera Bugti, roads have been affected, with mud houses damaged which left several families homeless. The Nari River, which passes through Sibi and Bolan districts, is carrying flood water. Traffic on the Quetta-Sibi highway has been temporarily suspended due to the Bolan River flowing over a small bridge. (Saleem Shahid, “Monsoon rains, landslides hit parts of Balochistan,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
Climate Change’s “disproportionate effect on women are often relegated or subsumed,” highlights an opinion in The News International
On 16 July, in an opinion titled “The gendered costs of climate change” in The News International Ayiza Rahman highlighted that the “disproportionate effect on women” of climate change is “often relegated or subsumed” due to its massive “scope and scale.” Rahman emphasized that there is now overwhelming evidence for the same. The opinion piece further enumerated ways in which this happens:  Climate induced disasters “disrupt jugular healthcare infrastructure,” including the supply chain of women’s healthcare needs, and contribute to “earning losses, gender-based violence (GBV), exacerbated resource dependency, widening economic inequality, migratory imbalance, and consequently, intersectional vulnerabilities.” Rahman also highlighted some key efforts made on this front, including the adoption of the National Climate Change Policy in 2021 and the Climate Change Gender Action Plan 2022 both of which were “gender-inclusive.”
Rahman argues that one way to fix the problem is make women “agents of change in climate conversations and decision-making.” This will also help in ensuring “climate justice” and “a climate-resilient Pakistan.” (Ayiza Rahman, “The gendered costs of climate change,” The News International, 16 July 2024)
 
WORLD VIEW
“No place in Gaza is safe from Israel’s murderous forays,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 16 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Non-stop massacres” described Israel’s offensive in Gaza as “one of the bloodiest campaigns of extermination against a civilian population in the modern era.” The editorial referred to the recent attacks on the Mawasi refugee camp in Khan Younis and a refugee camp in Nuseirat and argued that no space was safe in Gaza for the civilians, including the safe zones. The editorial also highlighted that those condemning Israeli actions, especially the West, were “shedding crocodile tears over the Palestinians’ suffering” as they continue to “arm and support” Israel. The editorial also accused the Muslim world of being “conspicuous by its absence.” The editorial further argued that Benjamin Netanyahu is “cunningly pretending to talk peace” while pounding Gaza. According to the editorial, this has turned the situation into one where Palestinians are fighting for their “survival.” The editorial concluded that there can only be one of the following to outcomes when the war ends: “either the Palestinians will secure freedom and dignity, or Israel will succeed in its mission of ethnically cleansing this ancient people from their homeland.” (“Non-stop massacres,” Dawn, 16 July 2024)
 
NATO states must shed their “Cold War mentality” to ensure a ‘rules-based’ international order, argue as editorial in Dawn
On 16 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Nato at 75” reviewed the 75 years of existence of Nato. The editorial argued that rather than “bringing long-lasting global stability” the alliance has led to “instability by maintaining a warlike posture that has threatened other states.” For instance, the editorial argues that while the Russian invasion of Ukraine is “unjustified,” continued Nato expansion eastwards contributed to this “collision course.” The editorial further argued that if Nato states are interested in “maintaining a ‘rules-based’ international order,” they must give up “Cold War mentality,” shun “threats and gunboat diplomacy.” A “new global geopolitical order” must be envisioned and created based on “mutual respect, beneficial and sustainable trade, as well as human development.” The editorial emphasized that in a “changed world,” “warmongering and neo-imperial rhetoric” will not do Nato any favors. NATO must stop fueling “forever wars” and equally condemn the “Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, and the ongoing genocidal violence in Gaza” as they do the Ukraine War. The editorial stressed that the ball is in “NATO’s court” and it must decide whether it wants to end its confrontation will its adversaries or “prepare for an era of open-ended confrontation.”(“ Nato at 75”, Dawn, 16 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Imran Khan 'arrested' in dozens of 9 May cases by Lahore police 
On 15 July, Dawn reported that as the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) secured an eight-day remand of Imran Khan in a new Toshakhana case, Lahore police also ‘arrested’ him in connection with multiple cases such as the attack on the Corps Commander House. As per sources, Khan will not be moved to Lahore for probing, due to security reasons, and will instead appear before an anti-terrorism court in Lahore through a video link. According to Deputy Inspector General Zeeshan Asghar, Khan was a prime suspect in 12 cases out of a total of 16 cases recorded by the Lahore police with regard to the 9 May attacks. Police officials said that of all the cases filed against Khan, they would be focusing on two in particular- the Askari tower case and the attacks on the residence of the Lahore corps commander. While the former case is being scrutinized by the Joint Investigation Team, led by Asghar, the latter will be looked into by police higher-ups. (Asif Chaudhry and Akram Junaidi, “Police ‘arrest’ Imran over several May 9 cases,” Dawn, 15 July 2024) 
 
SIC rules out possibility of merger with the PTI
On 14 July, SIC Chairman MNA Sahibzada Hamid Raza told Dawn that following “consultation with the top PTI leadership, it has been decided that the SIC will continue representing itself as the SIC in the NA and the KP Assembly.” The party will have two seats each after the Supreme Court’s (SC) verdict on reserved seats, which allowed the PTI to return to parliament and provincial assemblies. A merger of both parties was ruled out by the SIC in anticipation of “political requirements” in the future. Raza emphasized: “Even after the Supreme Court’s decision he was conveyed to keep the 41 MNAs’ seats. But from day one I have made it clear that these seats are of Imran Khan’s and should go to the PTI.” Earlier on 12 July, the PTI was declared eligible by the SC to receive reserved seats for women and minorities in both national and provincial assemblies. Raza spoke on a potential merger of the parties, and said “mergers of political parties take place in normal times, these are extraordinary times and to anticipate any future situation about the merger of PTI and SIC is not possible at the moment.” PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan noted that his party is “extremely thankful to the SIC chief for standing with the party in such a testing time.” He detailed that Raza would represent the SIC in the National Assembly, while 39 of the remaining SIC MNAs would return to the PTI. (Zulqernain Tahir, “Situationer: SIC, PTI to walk divergent paths,” Dawn, 15 July 2024)
 
“The ECP has lost the public’s trust,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 15 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘‘Complete’ justice’ discussed the “issues about the general election.” The article stated that the foremost among all is the question of “how quickly and fairly the dozens of petitions pending before election tribunals can be resolved.” It went on to discuss the Supreme Court’s verdict on the reserved seats case and mentioned that the “ECP acted unlawfully by disbarring the PTI from contesting the 8 February election.” Further, it questioned the role of the ECP in ensuring that the election tribunals dispensed justice fairly and promptly. The article also criticized the ECP’s decision to appoint retired judges to oversee such cases in the tribunal. The editorial claimed that “the ECP has lost the public’s trust.” The second question discussed was on the Senate elections, where the reserved seats of PTI were given to other parties. The editorial pointed out that this action affected the outcome of the senate elections. It argued that: “If the ECP’s illegal and unconstitutional decisions thwarted the public will and distorted the mandate given to each party by the people, then, for the sake of democracy, this injustice, too, must be undone.” The editorial also underlined that the process should begin from where the “ECP deviated from established rules and procedures.” (“‘Complete’ justice,” Dawn, 15 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Panellists link political stability to economy during ‘Great Debate’
On 14 July, during the Geo News exclusive Great Debate on the economy, experts stressed that “economic and political stability is the cornerstone for the country’s recovery from its downtrodden state of affairs.” The debate focussed on Pakistan’s economic challenges and a suggestion from various experts to guide Pakistan away from the economic turmoil. The Chief of Arif Habib Group, Arif Habib, stressed economic stability and criticized the political leadership for defaulting on necessary reforms, which led to “continued economic woes.” Habib talked about the rupee stabilization’s impact which led to a reduction in inflation, and urged the provinces to accept the tax on agriculture. He claimed this would provide relief to other sectors. Further, Habib raised concerns about the “excessive burden on salaried individuals and the challenges in tax collection from retailers.” He questioned the country’s foreign investment and its efficacy, urging the government to initiate more opportunities inside the country.
 
The Chairman of the All-Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), Asif Inam, discussed the energy sector and argued that 70 per cent of the economic problems came from the high electricity prices. He called on the projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) to address the electricity concerns. Similarly, the CEO of Topline Securities Ltd. Mohammad Sohail, highlighted that though the direction of the budget was correct, there were questions regarding the tax implementation. He noted there is a necessity for IMF and the goal of achieving five to six per cent economic growth to balance the increase in population. Sohail stressed political stability to nurture economic confidence and attract foreign investments. Apart from this, Amar Habib Khan, assistant professor of practice at the School of Business Studies, IBA, discussed the detrimental effect of a 29 per cent corporate tax on investment and underlined the need for agricultural and IT sector development. There was also a discussion on mining and construction aspects. (“‘Great Debate’: Pakistan’s recovery tied to political, economic stability,” The News International, 15 July 2024)
 
“At a time of economic uncertainty, the government’s new measures have put food security into question,” says an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 15 July, an editorial in The Express Tribune titled ‘Flour export ban’ described the government’s decision to ban the export of flour made from imported wheat as “another reactionary measure.” The decision was made amid a strike by the Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA), which led to more than 1,800 flour mills shutting operations to protest tax measures that would “increase their burden” and also increase the prices. These measures, which have come at a “time of economic uncertainty,” have put “food security into question” since the lack of flour supply could have widespread consequences for a population already “frustrated and over-burdened with taxes.” The editorial argued that in a free market, it is the forces of demand and supply and not the government which should determine the price of a commodity. For a long time, the policy of minimum support price for wheat only benefitted the mill owners, middlemen, and bureaucracy, and also led to a lack of innovation in the agriculture industry since farmers “do not invest in new technology” as their incomes are guaranteed. While these policies need to be done away with to enable competitiveness, the government also needs to “improve upon reporting mechanisms at provincial agricultural departments and the federal food ministry so as to ensure food security all the time.” The editorial noted the need for “better policymaking” over “knee-jerk reactions” which will not benefit the common man or Pakistan in the long run.
 
“Pakistan’s potential for sustainable growth in agri-food exports hinges on its ability to generate a significant surplus,” contends opinion in Dawn
On 15 April, in an opinion in Dawn titled ‘The case for agriculture exports,’ Dr Waqar Ahmad and Khalid Saeed Wattoo said that while Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has committed to increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio to 13 per cent within the next three years to secure a USD six billion IMF loan, a similar commitment was not given to the exports-to-GDP ratio. This ratio stands at 10.4 per cent, with many economists suggesting that an increase to 15 per cent could “potentially obviate the need for an IMF loan or external borrowing to address the balance of payments crisis.” Though Pakistan’s exports-to-GDP ratio was at 14.8 per cent in 1990, higher than that of China, India, and Bangladesh, these countries have “predominantly experienced export-led growth” in the last three decades. Meanwhile, Pakistan has failed to achieve similar growth due to “flawed economic policies and the misplaced priorities of successive governments.” The authors pointed out that during the Nawaz Sharif regime, imports became cheaper after the dollar exchange rate was artificially capped at PKR 100 for four years. Though this measure was to keep inflation in check, it “shook the very foundation” of the export sector, disrupted the value chains of exportable products, and led to a transition to a “consumption-based economy.” Currently, Pakistan is struggling to increase its exports while the manufacturing sector is feeling “incapacitated in maintaining its competitiveness in global markets due to a high policy rate of 20.5 per cent,” along with high electricity costs and frequently changing policies. Both authors stated that with the government withdrawing tax-related concessions for the manufacturing sector which has relied on government subsidies historically, manufacturers and exporters have said they would relocate to other countries. The opinion pointed out that agriculture and IT, which are “less capital-intensive,” can be relied upon for export growth. In the agriculture sector, exports are “commodity-based” and the use of high-yielding seeds along with other measures allow the sector to “produce additional volumes for import substitution” and create export surpluses. Thus, the opinion asserted that Pakistan’s “potential for sustainable growth in agri-food exports hinges on its ability to generate a significant export surplus.” (Dr Waqar Ahmad & Khalid Saeed Wattoo, “The case for agriculture exports,” Dawn, 15 July 2024)
 
Ministry of Finance to keep lid on federal financing of development to meet IMF goals
On 15 July, Dawn reported that despite protests from the Ministry of Planning, the Ministry of Finance will keep the lid on federal financing of development and recurrent expenditures through back-loaded releases of funds, with the aim of meeting IMF targets. In a set of fresh notifications, it was highlighted that the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives will authorize 15 per cent of funds for development projects in the first quarter, 20 per cent in the second, 25 per cent in the third, and 40 per cent in the fourth. Earlier, the PTI government had shortened the budget release process for speedy disbursements, implementing a mechanism that made half of the total annual allocations accessible to development projects in the first half. Before the PTI, 40 per cent of development funds would be released in the first six months, and the remaining 60 per cent in the second half of the fiscal year. A front-loaded disbursement mechanism had been set in place to encourage advance releases to executing agencies to appropriately utilize funds. Since the finance ministry would withhold sizeable funds on the grounds of “ways and means of clearance” to slow down development-related disbursements, projects faced delays. Continuous tensions between the finance and planning ministries caused the disbursement mechanism to change in 2022; however, in 2023, the policy was changed again by the finance ministry to ensure the primary cash surplus target was committed to the IMF. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Govt to keep lid on funds to meet IMF targets,” Dawn¸15 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
“The potential repercussions on privacy, civil liberties and democratic processes cannot be overlooked,” says an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 14 July, in an opinion in The Express Tribune titled ‘Questionable intent,’ Haroon Rashid Siddiqi discussed the recent Statutory Notification (SRO) by the federal government under Section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Re-organization Act, 1996, allowing ISI to intercept calls and messages. He criticized the move as it raises concerns about “privacy, civil liberties and the potential abuse of power,” though it intended to boost the “national security framework.” Siddiqi claimed that the new law would lead to the “erosion of privacy rights” as the ability to tap telephone calls grants access to hear “personal conversations and sensitive information.” This would prompt insecurity among individuals who may feel “inhibited from speaking freely.” The author stressed that the new law can become “weaponized against political opponents, journalists, and activists,” and highlighted that in a country with a “precarious” balance of power, these laws could be easily used to “sway political outcomes.” He also observed that the new law poses a threat to press freedom in which, journalism by profession, “thrives on the ability to investigate and report freely.” Siddiqi projected that the new law would face legal and constitutional challenges, arguing that the “broad and vague nature” of the given surveillance powers to the ISI could be seen as a violation of Pakistan’s constitutional protections. The opinion further argued that though national security is “undeniably important,” there have to be “independent bodies, such as judicial or parliamentary committees” to review and regulate the use of those powers. (Haroon Rashid Siddiqi, “Questionable intent,” The Express Tribune, 14 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
“Taliban should take action against its both “good and bad” militants,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 15 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Afghan challenge’ discussed the UN monitoring team’s report on Afghanistan. While the Taliban has “managed to stabilize Afghanistan after decades of conflict,” under its rule, “terrorist groups are flourishing on Afghan soil.” The UN report stated the Taliban is a “transition from insurgency to governing authority.” In this regard, the editorial stated that due to the limited gains, there has been less competition and noted “if the Taliban seek full recognition from the international community, they need to do much more,” stressing the areas of women's rights, and enhancing governance structure. Regarding militancy, the UN report urged the global community to keep “eyes and ears open,” given that the banned TTP has become the largest terrorist group in Afghanistan and developed a relationship with Al Qaeda. The report also claimed that the Taliban rulers are “unable or unwilling” to tackle the TTP threat. The editorial argued that the Taliban should be told to contain militants by referring to “‘good’ militants who support them (TTP, Al Qaeda), and ‘bad’ militants who oppose them (IS-K).” (“Afghan challenge,” Dawn, 15 July 2024)
 
ENERGY
Electricity theft is a problem, but it’s not the sole cause of financial mess,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 15 July, in an opinion in Dawn titled ‘Pakistan’s energy mass,’ Tehmina Asad and Afia Malik said that while energy is the “backbone of civilization and development,” Pakistan’s energy sector is facing a crisis in the form of a “complex web of perpetual circular debt, ill-conceived independent power producers (IPP) contracts, and outdated tariff design.” This situation has been worsened by factors including power outages and rising tariffs. “Decades of mismanagement, overcentralized, and misguided decision-making,” along with the “non-realization of past mistakes,” has caused consumers to face the brunt of “systemic failures.” Though the circular debt worth PKR 2.6 billion is often attributed to electricity theft, theft would not have been “possible without the connivance of the administrative staff.” Discos for their part blame the falling demand on the increasing shift to rooftop solar, while overlooking the impact of commercial load-shedding. The opinion argued that the “underutilization of expensive installed generation capacity for which capacity payments have to be made” is a significant contributor to the financial mess, along with a lack of long-term planning. Most decisions that have been taken were unplanned, while sector managers have continually failed to develop an energy policy which meets the population’s needs as the focus is more on “addition rather than on efficiency.” The tariff design is also a problem because while it allows for subsidies, the “consumer-end tariff is burdened with taxes and surcharges.” Both authors opined that the “governance structure within the power sector is responsible for the mess,” and asserted that the Ministry of Energy should not intervene in company affairs to help enhance accountability. (Tehmina Asad and Afia Malik, “Pakistan’s energy mass,” Dawn, 15 July 2024)
 
WORLDVIEW
“Era of neocolonialism is going to culminate in the form of new technological invasions,” says an opinion in The News International
On 15 July, an opinion by Hassan Baig in The News International titled ‘Colonial wars are back’ said the new colonial wars are between multinational companies and tech giants, which are shaping the current world. He described chips, semiconductors, Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), tariffs and taxes, and supply chains as the new tools of war. Baig stated that this new race is at a peak to “colonize developing countries through the tools of the developed world.” He claimed that the era of neocolonialism would culminate in the form of a new technological invasion that would ultimately exploit third-world countries. The opinion detailed that the developed countries were attempting to rule over the developing countries, which is the reason behind “chip wars and the introduction of trade restrictions on EVs by the US/EU against China.” According to the author, Chip-empowered AI apps have gained the status of king in the technological world, and advanced countries like the US, Russia, China, and the EU are in a race to monopolize chip and semiconductor technologies. The “security paradigm” has shifted from military rule to economic prowess, with strategic arms programs connected to modern software technologies. The tactics and strategic approach of the US and EU and their allied developed countries vis-a-vis China and Russia are almost the same as they used to be in colonial wars. Baig claimed that only the tools of the war have been changed in the new world order and the “old colonial wars are back,” with new technological and tactical moves set to dominate the world. (“Colonial wars are back,” The News International, 15 July 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
“China is the reason why Modi is able to defy the United States by remaining close to Russia,” notes an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 15 July, Shahid Javed Burki in an opinion in The Express Tribune titled ‘India, one part of the multipolar world’ said that the world has four poles- India, the US, China, and Russia- two of which are Pakistan’s neighbours. The fact that New Delhi is being “courted” by the US and Russia and is a “good counterpoint to the rising power of China” proves how India has become one of the four poles “around which the developing world order is being structured.” Burki noted how a few months ago, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hosted by US President Joe Biden, and then later on 9 and 10 July, he was hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The second visit, which coincided with a meeting held by the heads of states of NATO countries, resulted in the US State Department stating: “We have made quite clear directly with India our concerns about their relationship with Russia.” The visit was also criticized by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who said: “It is a huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts to see the leader of the world’s largest democracy hug the world’s bloody criminal in Moscow.” Despite this, Modi is “able to defy the US by remaining close to Russia” because of China. During his meeting with Putin, Modi emphasized: “Any mention of Russia reminds every Indian of an ally that has been with us through good times and bad times, as a trusted friend of India.” He also brought up the “Ukrainian issue with Putin in a low-key manner,” saying that anyone who “believes in humanity is aggrieved at the loss of life in war or in terror attacks.” Moscow described relations with India as a “special and privileged relationship,” with Indian officials who accompanied Modi announcing their goal to expand the annual trade volume to USD 100 billion by 2030. Modi’s announcement of new consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan was “no good news for Pakistan where the security services believe that India uses its consular presence in Russia to create trouble in the restive province of Balochistan.” India is also talking to Russia about building six new nuclear power reactors in the country. Burki highlighted that one of Modi’s many objectives was to show Moscow that while New Delhi is receiving investments from the US, “it has not lost its autonomy.” (Shahid Javed Burki, “India, one part of the multipolar world,” The Express Tribune, 15 July 2024)

In Brief
ECONOMY
Government forced to introduce new taxes amid IMF scepticism
On 13 July, Dawn reported that the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) Chairman Amjed Zubair Tiwana declared that the government had failed to convince the IMF about its enforcement capabilities for increasing revenues. The failure was linked to a poor track record and trust deficit, which lead to an increase in taxation. During a testimony before the National Assembly’s Stand­ing Committee on Finance, chaired by PPP MNA Syed Naveed Qamar, Tiwana stated: “We opposed some new tax measures and managed to protect agriculture-related things but couldn’t convince them about many others. We tried to explain many challenges but couldn’t protect the salaried class.” Likewise, the government has to impose a sales tax on milk though it does not want to. He highlighted that due to the lack of trust in the government’s performance in the last 75 years, the IMF did not accept the argument. Tiwana emphasized the government's commitment to widening the tax net through effective taxation on retailers, exchange rates, and other government policies. In addition, he emphasized that the “FBR would need to ensure 50 per cent growth in taxes to achieve the 40 per cent growth target.” Tiwana assured the panel that new revenue measures introduced in the new budget would not be withdrawn and enforcement would be the top priority to achieve the revenue collection target assigned to the FBR. He acknowledged that withholding taxes were imposed to compensate for the FBR's weak enforcement. (Khaleeq Kiani, “‘IMF scepticism forces govt to impose new taxes’,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)
 
Flour supply paused for the second day as mills continued to strike against Withholding Tax imposition by the government
On 13 July, The News International reported on the discontinuation of flour supply for the second day across the country due to the mills demonstrating against taxation measures by the government. Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA) announced these strikes would continue indefinitely until the taxes were withdrawn. PFMA stated: “We don’t want to create any trouble for the public and that is why the flour milling industry continued to supply flour from 6 July 6 to 10 July, particularly given the sanctity of Muharram,” They added that it became difficult to continue the business by the imposition of withholding tax (WHT), arguing that though the demands were submitted to the authorities, no steps were taken. Further, PFMA stressed the success of the strike by the four mills across the country. The new WHT tax stands at ten per cent, which has been imposed at a rate of two per cent on non-filer dealers, two and a half per cent on retailers, and five and a half per cent on flour mills. With this, the price of a 20-kilogram bag now would cost PKR 185. Similarly, as a result of the strike, the flour supply chain was disrupted heavily and impacted by the shortage in flour pockets.
 
An editorial in Dawn titled, ‘Looming flour shortage,’ stated that “it is hard to argue against the reason compelled flour mills to call a nationwide strike.” It stressed the flour mill owners requested the authorities to “directly collect the said tax from retailers and other players in the chain.” The editorial argued that this was the “deep-rooted problems of inequity and unfairness plaguing our inefficient tax administration.” The editorial further supported the decision of mill owners’ rejection of withholding agents’ status as it will “saddle them with heavy cost” and lead to corruption. The editorial questioned: “What options would the authorities be left with if flour millers refuse to budge from their position?” (“Flour supply disruption enters second day amid taxation dispute,” The News International, 13 July 2024; “Looming flour shortage,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
Two petitions challenge ISI’s power to tap calls and messages
On 12 July, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) admitted a petition filed by six Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) members for a regular hearing, which challenged the federal government’s decision to empower the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to tap citizen calls and messages. The petitioners argued that the notification dated on 8 July 2024 is “ultra vires of the Constitution and the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-Organisation) Act, 1996.” They further stated that “wiretapping or intercepting calls” is possible only after due process under the Fair Trial Act, of 2013. Advocate Zuberi, one of the petitioners, argued that there was no provision for interception or wiretapping calls under the Telecom Act of 1996. The ISI was authorized by the federal government to “intercept calls and messages” due to national security concerns, in response to questions framed by IHC Justice Babar Sattar in the audio leaks case.
 
Similarly, a petition was moved before the Lahore High Court (LHC) by an MPA from Jhan, retired major Ghulam Sarwar, which contended that the impugned notification was an invasion of an individual’s privacy. Justice Farooq Haider recommended for a larger bench to hear the petition as it raises legal questions. Sarwar explained that the exercise of unbridled power and discretion was unconstitutional, and it highlighted a violation of freedom of expression and speech. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh and Malik Asad, “IHC to hear plea against ISI’s call interception powers,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Armed clash between Rad tribes in Dera Murad Jamali kills three tribesmen
On 12 July, an armed clash between two groups of Rad tribes in the Dera Murad Jamali area of Nasirabad district killed three tribesmen. A senior police officer stated that: “The cause of the armed attack was honor killing issue which sparked the armed clash.” Some armed men of one group began firing on a member of the rival group, causing him to jump into a canal and drown. After finding out about the attack, the second group started attacking the house of their rivals in Manjodhori. The firing lasted for almost half an hour, in which two people were killed. Local police arrived at the spot after receiving the information and took the bodies to Dera Murad Jamali Hospital. (Ali Jan Mangi, “Three tribesmen killed in Dera Murad Jamali armed clash,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
Security forces arrest 120 Afghan nations for illegally crossing into Pakistan
On 12 July, security forces arrested 120 Afghan nationals for illegally crossing into the Pakistani area of Chagai district. They were arrested during a search operation by security forces at the Pak-Afg­han and Pak-Iran borders. Officials mentioned that the operation was conducted after a tip-off about the presence of foreigners near borders. During the investigation, Levies officials found that the “arrested Afghan nationals were Uzbek and they were going to Iran illegally in search of jobs.” They were handed over to Afghan border authorities at the Baramcha border crossing point. (Saleem Shahid, “120 Afghan nationals held for illegally crossing into Pakistan,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and Azerbaijan affirm their commitment to boosting ties and bilateral cooperation
On 12 July, Pakistan and Azerbaijan emphasized their commitment to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation in energy, trade, connectivity, defence, and people-to-people linkages. During a meeting with visiting Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted that both countries have excellent relations and underlined the need for more regular engagements between both. He also noted the importance of Gwadar port and stated that central Asian countries and Azerbaijan can benefit from it in terms of trade, connectivity, and tourism. Zardari welcomed the signing of MoUs between the countries, saying these would give a new impetus to bilateral cooperation in fields including commerce, tourism, mines, and culture. Aliyev also agreed on a need to promote business-to-business relations to enhance economic relations. He suggested exploring the possibility of working together in the renewable energy sector.
 
On the side lines of this visit, a high-level official delegation of Azerbaijan, led by Azerbaijan Minister for Energy Parviz Shahbazov, met Pakistan’s federal minister for Petroleum and Water Resources Dr Musadik Malik, and spoke on enhancing bilateral trade and investment. During the meeting, Musadik highlighted the vast investment opportunities in mines and minerals like gold and copper in Pakistan. The Azerbaijan delegation expressed its keen interest to start working with Pakistan on proposals presented for trade enhancements. (“Pakistan, Azerbaijan agree to enhance bilateral trade, investment,” Dawn, 13 July 2024)

In Brief
JUDICIARY
PBC challenges federal decision allowing ISI to intercept citizen calls in IHC
On 11 July, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) challenged the decision of the federal government to allow Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept citizens’ calls and messages in Islamabad High Court (IHC). The six members of the PBC who are the petitioners asked the court to declare the decision as “null and void.” The petition challenged the SRO 1005(I)/2024 which allows BS-18 or above ISI officers to “surveil citizens in the name of national security” under Section 54 of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Act. The petitioners argued: “Even before the promulgation of Investigation for Fair Trial Act, Section 54 of Telecom Act that empowered the federal government to intercept the calls was ultra vires as it suffered from excessive delegation, granting the federal government unbridled powers and unfettered discretion without sufficient legal and constitutional safeguards.” Similarly, on 10 July, the citizens also challenged the decision of the federal government to tap the phone calls in the Lahore High Court.
Earlier, in May 2023, Justice Babar Sattar of the IHC while hearing a case regarding audio leaks had framed a list of questions and posed them to the stakeholders questioning “which law empowered the executive to record or surveil phone calls.”  (Malik Asad, “Senior lawyers challenge ISI’s surveillance powers in IHC,” Dawn, 12 July 2024)

Discourse around judges’ right to speak should be guided by “the human rights framework,” argues an opinion in Dawn 
On 12 July, an opinion in Dawn titled “Can judges speak?” discussed the “most expressed belief” about the judiciary in Pakistan that is, the “judges must only speak through their judgments” and questioned its truth today. The opinion revealed that in countries like the UK, the idea that judges should not have extra-judicial talks prohibits the judges from speaking to the public. The UK accepted this for 32 years until 1987 when Lord MacKay, stated it was “difficult to reconcile with the independence of the judiciary.” International laws such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) also guarantee the right to the “freedom of the expression including judges along with the right to a fair trial.” This needs the court to be “independent and impartial.” The UN Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary further supports the argument by clarifying the relationship between judges’ right to freedom of expression and the independence and impartiality of the judiciary as “in exercising such rights, judges shall always conduct themselves in such a manner as to preserve the dignity of their office and the impartiality and independence of the judiciary.” In addition, a review of international standards, regional jurisprudence, and academic literature identifies that the Judges are encouraged to not speak related to party policies and not to directly undermine the rights of litigants who “might” believe the judge to be partial.
Similarly, there are certain areas where judges do have a duty to speak as they imply unique contributions. In this regard, the Consultative Council of European Judges (CCJE), an advisory body of the Council of Europe’s recommendations are relevant, argues the opinion. Further, in such cases where judges consider it a “moral duty” to speak, the report cited a judgment by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in ‘López Lone vs Honduras.’ In this case, the court stated that “the prohibition of judges from participating in activities of a party nature should not be interpreted … in a way that prevents judges from taking part in any discussion of a political nature.” (Reema Omer, “Can judges speak?,” Dawn, 12 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
Lack of planning causes demographic challenges, argues an editorial in The News International
On 12 July, an editorial in The News International titled “Population Puzzle” highlighted Pakistan’s demographic challenges in controlling the population. The report revealed that Pakistan is the fifth-most populous country in the world with a population of over 240 million. The editorial also noted that the country’s policymakers have “a myopic view of governance.” The report further argued that the median age population of Pakistan is 20.6 years which means the country has “energetic young people” who can contribute to economic growth. However, the editorial lamented that this is “not the case” for Pakistan as it faces myriad problems when its population increases. This is mainly due to the “lack of planning by the government.” These failures in planning have resulted in people being displaced internally: from smaller towns and villages to urban cities which burdens the cities more. The editorial further states that the increase in population growth was because of the “lack of family planning.” The editorial has recommended a “coherent plan to deal with its growing population” as so far, the country has made efforts to implement family planning programs that were inconsistent. The editorial also underscored that “the investment in education” and “access to education” especially for women is the key way to curb demographic challenges. In addition, it highlighted the effective healthcare facilities in rural areas for family planning. Apart from these two (education and health), socio-economic development also plays a huge role in population control, argued the report. It suggests the need for cultural shift and political and community engagement to address the population challenge in Pakistan. (“Population puzzle,” The News International, 12 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
Allowing “legal” Afghan refugees to stay in the country “a more humane choice than the problematic repatriation campaign,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 12 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Temporary extension” commended the “humane choice” of the cabinet to allow “legal” Afghan refugees” to stay in the country. It noted that “legal” Afghan refugees, meaning those with Proof of Registration cards can stay in the country till 30 June 2025 and stressed the fact that the “reprieve is temporary” as they have to return back subsequently. The editorial highlighted that this decision will affect around 1.45 million Afghans in the country. Afghans fled from their country and the majority of them either ended up in Pakistan or used this country as a “transit point” to reach the third country. Following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has been facing a cohort of refugees and increased security concerns. The editorial emphasized that the repatriation of refugees was in response to “the militants entering the country in the guise of refugees”. The editorial also highlighted that the Afghans who worked for “Western governments or for the Karzai and Ghani administrations — particularly those who were involved in military and intelligence activities” face threats if they return. The editorial thus remarked that the countries involved should speed up the visa process or “those states that spent billions of dollars waging war in Afghanistan must now chip in and help support Afghan refugees.” (“Temporary extension,” Dawn, 12 July 2024)
 
Doha talks induce hope that “situation in Afghanistan will become more conducive,” says an editorial in The News International
On 12 July, an editorial in The News International titled “Afghan refugees” praised the decision of the government to allow a “one-year-extension” for PoR holder Afghan refugees and criticized the earlier decision to repatriate refugees haphazardly. The editorial also hoped that the Doha talks would ease the situation in Afghanistan. The editorial further added Pakistan’s repatriation campaign was justified earlier due to “its security concerns and the increasing cross-border terrorism.” The editorial also suggested that the elected Pakistan government “work with civil society” and all the stakeholders to bring a proper solution to this issue. It also claimed that the 44,000 Afghans who have been approved for relocation to Western countries should be expedited by the Western countries as the “whole Afghan situation is a direct result of Western interventions in the country.” The editorial also mentioned the need for the Taliban government to work together on this issue by easing the restrictions on girls’ education and basic freedoms. (“Afghan refugees,” The News International, 12 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Enhancement of bilateral trade with Baku
On 11 July, referring to a joint deal between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz stated “We have discussed an initial figure of USD2bn of investment” in mutually “beneficial projects.”  PM Sharif and Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev addressed a joint press conference after signing fifteen memorandums of understanding and agreements. The memorandums cover issues pertaining to “Consular Affairs, transit trade, preferential trade, privatization of state property, law and justice, mineral resources, and geology, cultural exchange program from 2024 to 2029” and so on.PM Sharif is also set to visit Azerbaijan in November, where both sides would sign agreements valuing USD 2 billion. Both leaders expressed a strong commitment “to move forward and touch higher levels of achievements in the fields of trade and investment.” PM Sharif also highlighted that Pakistan has always supported Azerbaijan’s stand on Nagorno-Karabakh. President Aliyev responded similarly, “Our state's forward support on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir is our commitment to our brotherhood and also our respect to international law, the rights of Kashmiris have been ignored and violated for decades.” Concerning the climate summit COP29, which will be hosted in Baku, PM Sharif is hopeful that under Aliyev’s “wise stewardship”, “COP29 will deliver on the climate change-related issues of developing countries like Pakistan.”
(“Pakistan, Azerbaijan to expand investment up to $2bn”, Dawn, 12 July 2024; Muhammad Anis & Sales Zaafir “Islamabad, Baku agree to expand investment to $2bn”, The News International, 12 July 2024)
 

In Brief
JUDICIARY
January judgement stripping the PTI of its bat symbol “remains a rolling disaster,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 6 July, in an opinion titled “What a mess,” Asad Rahim Khan argued that the judgement stripping the PTI of its electoral symbol “remains a rolling disaster.” It has led to the parliament being “paralyzed,” legal wrangling over reserved seats, leaving a full bench of the Supreme Court to pick through the mess. Describing the developments in the aftermath of the judgement “as legal jiggery-pokery to suppress the will of the people,” the author argues “elected representatives cannot be denied their rightful strength in the assembly.” The author also brought up the fact that CJP Isa was not a “literalist” earlier and even if he is one now, the Constitution does not allow for the reserved seats to be allocated to the “loser.” Further, even in criminal cases, “literalism was let go.” The author concludes that the question of reserved seats not only “concerns minority representation, but the fate of democracy itself.” (Asad Rahim Khan, “What a mess,” Dawn, 6 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Indirect taxes push weekly inflation to 23.5 per cent
On 6 July, Dawn reported that short-term inflation has risen to 23.59 per cent on a year-on-year basis. This is because of the “tax measures enacted in the budget that led to a high cost of living.” Another factor is the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government’s decision to allow sugar exports, which has inflated the price of said commodity at the domestic level. The index comprises 51 items and this week’s data shows a rise in the price of 29 items, decline in the prices of five and no change in those of 17. In the week ending on 4 July and on a week-on-week basis, the short-term inflation has increased by 1.28 per cent. The government has also reversed the low prices of petroleum and diesel from the beginning of the financial year and also increased sales tax and customs on fresh fruits and vegetables imported from Iran and Afghanistan. Consequently, this has resulted in an inflation of food and non-food items. On an annual basis, some of the goods whose prices have increased in the first quarter include tomato at 161.12 per cent, onion at 79.04 per cent, chilly powder at 55 per cent, and LPG at 21.15 per cent price drops were seen in some items, for example, wheat flour dropped to 28.5 per cent, chicken to 28.23 per cent, cooking oil to 15.17 per cent and so forth. (Mubarak Zen Khan, “Indirect taxes fuel weekly inflation to 23.5 per cent”, Dawn, 6 July 2024)

PM Sharif takes stock of FBR reforms
On 6 July, Dawn reported that a meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the review of the Federal Board of Revenue on 5 July. At the meeting, the PM was informed of the identification of “4.5 million potential taxpayers” and “300,000 new taxpayers” who paid their returns as a result of government measures. Additionally, the tax refunds to 4,000 companies were stopped due to cases of “under-invoicing and forged sales tax refunds.”
 
Hence, to improve transparency, Sharif asked for the installation of modern scanners at seaports, a report consisting of tax evasion estimates and preventive measures as well as the appointment of personnel of excellent professional repute to formulate the taxation policy. On the other hand the FBR, under the PM’s approval has withdrawn powers from 25 chief commissioners in all offices of Large Taxpayer and Regional Taxpayers Offices. A new post was made, termed “commissioner refund” for the swift resolution of refund cases from 1 July. It also issued a notice for the “transfer and postings of 101 officers of the Inland Revenue Service.” (Mehtab Haider, “4.5m potential taxpayers identified: PM,” Dawn, 6 July 2024)

Domestic debt rises to PKR 67.8 trillion
On 6 July, according to The News International, Pakistan’s debt rose by 11.46 per cent during July 2023 to May 2024, from PKR 66.1 trillion to PKR 67.8 trillion. On a year-on-year basis the government debt has risen to 15 per cent in May 2024. The government has been forced to resort to domestic borrowing to due to its “budget deficit, maturing debt repayment and growing interest rates”. However, there are signs of a decrease in inflation as the interest rate was lowered from 22 per cent to 20.5 per cent by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). There looms an accumulation of private credit as “government’s domestic debt increased by 19 per cent to PKR 46.2 trillion”, May experienced a 4 per cent rise on a monthly basis and a 25 per cent rise on an annual basis. On a positive note, the SBP data released on 4 July reflects a decline in foreign debt. In the backdrop of the finalization of a loan with the IMF, there has been an increase in foreign reserves amounting to USD 494 million. (Erum Zaidi, “Public debt increases to Rs67.8 trillion in 11MFY2024”, The News International, 6 July 2024)
 
MEDIA
“Shutting down the internet, phones and social media is not the way to ensure communal peace,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 6 July, an editorial titled “Gagging social media” in Dawn criticized the Punjab government’s suggestion “calling for the gagging of social media apps during Muharram,” as “troubling.” The editorial conceded that security concerns during Muharram are “absolutely valid,” however, cutting off internet and gagging social media are not the solution. This is because “the presence of violent hate groups that have been fanning the flames of communalism in society for decades” is the real problem while “hate material and misuse of social media” are mere symptoms. The editorial further argued that the government’s suggestion can set a terrible precedent and could be used “by some elements within the state to permanently throttle free expression.” The editorial also rightly pointed out other repercussions of the proposed move: countrywide disruption of communication and adverse effect on e-commerce. The editorial also highlighted that such precedents can be used to stifle strikes and protests in the future. Instead of the proposed move, the editorial suggested that “less intrusive and less draconian methods” could be used. For instance, through “greater vigilance and monitoring,” communal harmony can be maintained. (“Gagging social media,” Dawn, 6 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Bomb attack in Mardan kills three and injures five
On 5 July, a bomb attack on the Jalala Bridge at Malakand-Mardan Road killed three people and injured five other, including two children. Local police spokesman, Farman Ali Khan told Dawn that a remote-controlled bomb was planted on the bridge in Takhtbai tehsil of Mardan. The bomb was triggered when a police van and motorcycle rickshaw were crossing the bridge. All three travelling in the rickshaw were killed. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation has been launched to nab the culprits. (Muhammad Jamal Hoti, “Three killed in Mardan bomb attack,” Dawn, 6 July 2024)

AF-PAK
Former Ambassador calls Pakistan and Afghanistan ‘conjoined twins’
On 6 July, The News International revealed that in a statement released by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Pakistan’s former ambassador to Afghanistan, Ayaz Wazir has stated that “challenges and tensions” between Afghanistan and Pakistan is due to the non-existence of a bilateral dialogue. Wazir made this statement while chairing the 5th Round of ‘Pak-Afghan tribal stakeholders dialogue’ held in Peshawar. According to Wazir, “both nations must prioritize negotiations and diplomatic interventions over military options”. Issues related to girls’ education do not get the attention they deserve as in Pakistani and Afghan societies and it is the responsibility of scholars from religious community to engage with the de facto authority of Afghanistan and understand their priorities and concerns. He added, that “Pakistan and Afghanistan are conjoined twins and are never meant not to be separated”, they must collaborate on “strengthening their security against threats from terrorism and prioritize counter-terrorism cooperation” and cease the “blame game.” Former chairperson of Council of Islamic Ideology also attended the dialogue and stated that Pakistan’s hosting of Afghan refugees during periods of unrest in Afghanistan must be acknowledged as “an international humanitarian obligation”, of a “neighboring country.” Assistant Professor from University of Peshawar, Dr. Aamir Raza opined the empowering of ‘jirgas’ or tribal councils “to play a more active role in conflict resolution and community governance,” to “foster dialogue” and build “trust at the grassroots level.” Tribal leaders expressed the “importance of consulting and empowering” them as their local influence and insights could be leveraged, as they are essential in conflict resolution. (Rasheed Khalid, “Pak-Afghan tribal stakeholders’ dialogue”, The News International, 6 July 2024)
 
CPEC
“Pakistan can’t choose between China and the USA,” suggests an opinion in The Nation
On 6 July, in an opinion titled “CPEC to CPEC 2.0,” in The Nation, Sher Ali Bukhari reviewed the historical trajectory of CPEC, its importance for Pakistan, and possible solutions to problems plaguing its completion and effective implementation. The author has argued that Pakistan’s historical support and diplomacy before during “the isolation period of China that acted as a bridge between China and the international community” deepened their relationship over time and in return China proposed the China Pakistan Economic Corridor “CPEC” when it became “the second largest economy in” 2010 and decided to establish BRI. Officially launched in 2013, “Pakistan viewed CPEC as a game changer in the region.” The author has argued that a deep economic partnership between the two “can deepen their strategic relations and become partners in regional peace and connectivity.” The author points out that the journey from CPEC to CPEC 2 has been fraught with difficulties: from the US trying to present “rival plans” to India smearing the CPEC as “debt-trap” and raising objections towards projects located in Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. The author also alleged that India also is engaged in sabotaging the CPEC projects by “covertly attacking Chinese workers and engineers for sabotaging CPEC Projects while instigating terrorism in Baluchistan for crippling Gwadar Port.” The author emphasized that for a successful CPEC, Pakistan must “eliminate the menace of terrorism,” “build political stability,” undertake necessary economic reforms and be cautious about the mounting debt from CPEC. Most importantly, Pakistan should do this without antagonizing the US. (Sher Ali Bukhari, "CPEC to CPEC 2.0," The Nation, 6 July 2024)

INDIA VIEW
“India may not be as robust as advertised,” argues and opinion The News International
On 6 July, in an opinion titled “What to do with India?,” Engineer Khurram Dastgir-Khan highlighted India’s problems and argued that “India may not be as robust as advertised.” He, however, conceded that “Pakistan has its own challenges.” The myriad issues plaguing India range from: “glaring economic inequality,” “relative weakness against China,” increasing unemployment, “crippling mass poverty,” agitated farmers, and “systematic suppression of minorities, especially Muslims.” The author argues that this has put a dent in India’s image. However, the “widening” gap between India and Pakistan’s economic, diplomatic and military strengths has allowed the Modi government to pursue a 'not war, not peace' strategy to punish Pakistan beneath the nuclear umbrella” since 2016. The author suggests that in order to deal with India and “salvage its international reputation,” Pakistan should “stop offering talks to India,” materialize its talk on “regional geo-economics” and eradicate “violent extremism” from the country, deepen its partnership with China and SCO, conduct “discreet but consistent diplomacy with our European partners,” focus on achieving “parity with India’s provisional status in the Nuclear Suppliers Group,” “expose India’s human rights violations across the world” and “invest in studying India. (Engineer Khurram Dastgir-Khan, “What to do with India?,” The News International, 6 July 2024)
 
WORLD VIEW
Labor Party in the UK has taken over “a country weaker and more dysfunctional in almost every way,” argues an editorial in The News International
On 6 July, an editorial in The News International titled “Landslide by Labour” reviewed the recently concluded UK elections and termed the defeat of the conservatives the “worst electoral performance by Conservative Party ever” in terms of seat share. The editorial described the 14 year long Tory rule in the UK as “dismal.” Referring to the Brexit, the “migrant scandal,” and a poor performing economy, the editorial pointed out to the Conservative government’s “total inability to govern their country sensibly.” The party also was unable to “navigate” the divide between “far-right backbenchers and outsiders like Nigel Farage and more pragmatic centrists.” The editorial further argues that the Labor Party has thus taken over “a country weaker and more dysfunctional in almost every way than the one they inherited.”  Describing the win of the Labor Party “a landslide victory,” the editorial commented on the possible changes that this shift in power could bring. The editorial argues that the winning party has “an unenviable task ahead” as not only will it have to deal with a “resurgent far right” but also intra-party divisions. Further, the editorial highlights that the intra-party divide is of the probable new Prime Minister and Labor Party leader Keir Starmer’s own making: His sidelining of previous leader Jeremy Corbyn. This means that the most immediate challenge for Starmer is staying in power. (“Landslide by Labour,” The News International, 6 July 2024)

In Brief
ECONOMY
Consumers to face tariff hike of PKR 5.72 per unit
On 5 July, Dawn reported that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) called for a public hearing on 8 July with regard to a PKR 5.72 per unit increase in the average national tariff, resulting in more than PKR 700 billion in additional burden to electricity consumers during FY24. The sale rate for poor protected consumers would be heavily impacted by this increase, with a rise of over 51 per cent. This hike, which was effective from 1 July as part of the IMF’s “prior action and structural benchmark,” affects all Discos and K-Electric. Earlier on 14 June, a 20 per cent increase in the uniform national tariff had already been announced by Nepra, to ensure PKR 3.8 trillion to ten Discos during FY25. In the case of certain lifeline consumers, the government has come up with minor subsidies and spread out the remaining revenue requirements to other consumer categories. Thus, for “protected consumers” using up to 100 united per month, the tariff was raised by 51 per cent, and for protected consumers using up to 200 units per month, the tariff rose by 41 per cent. For the “unprotected category,” a tariff increase of more than 43 per cent has been suggested. Consumer categories would face a PKR 1,250 per kilowatt fixed capacity charge, on top of which commercial and general services tariff would increase by 17 per cent. A formal notification is expected by 10 July after the power regulator concludes its process. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Another major power tariff hike looms for consumers,” Dawn, 5 July 2024)
 
Power minister announces privatization of all Discos
On 4 July, the Federal Minister for Power, Awais Ahmed Khan Laghari, stated that all power distribution companies (Discos) would be privatized within a year and a half. While expressing commitment to “fixing the system to provide relief to consumers” as distribution companies caused PKR 600 billion in loss, Khan informed that the tariff categories had been revised. Lifeline customers and protected customers will pay PKR 7.65 and PKR 20.48 per unit respectively, while consumers in the third category will pay PKR 42 per unit and subsequent category consumers using 300 to 700 units would pay higher rates. (“All Discos to be privatised, says energy minister,” Dawn, 5 July 2024)
 
Treasury bills, inflows in equity market, and foreign exchange reserves reach record highs
On 5 July, Dawn cited data from the State Bank, which depicted a USD 232 million jump in the inflow of treasury bills during the first 21 days of June, while the net inflow in the equity market reached a ten-year high. Total inflows in FY24 currently stand at USD 706.4 million. The head of research at Arif Habib Limited, Tahir Abbas, stated that this development is due to “high returns on t-bills and exchange rate stability.” He added that the “outlook of exchange rate is stable since talks with the IMF are moving in the right direction and hopes for a new agreement are high.” Abbas projected that if the rupee does not depreciate, “the 20 per cent return on t-bills is the highest in the developing world.” Inflows from the equity market have also reached a new high after ten years, at USD 140 million in the financial year 2024. The foreign exchange reserves have also risen by almost half a billion, from USD 494 million to USD 9.389 billion, owing to receipts from multilateral parties. (Shahid Iqbal, “T-bills, equity see record inflows in FY24,” Dawn, 5 July 2024)
 
Pakistan Economy Watch president blames IPPs for increase in electricity bills
On 5 July, The Express Tribune cited the President of the Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW), Dr Murtaza Mughal, who claimed that Independent Power Producers (IPP) are a threat to Pakistanis and have destroyed the economy, making national development impossible. He advised the government to buy all IPPs from their owners to solve this, for which at least USD five billion would be required that can be arranged by taking loans from international institutions. Mughal explained that the interest on this loan would be nothing compared to the payments made to the IPPs and that the country would be saved from major consequences if IPPs were bought. He pointed out that in May, the energy sector’s circular debt had reached PKR 2,310 billion while payments to the IPPs had reached PKR 1,800 billion. Since the IPP bill is the third largest debt owed to the government, the role of private power producers is a significant reason for the major increase in electricity bills in Pakistan. (“‘IPPs have destroyed country’s economy’,” The Express Tribune, 5 July 2024)
 
Sindh CM highlights major provincial development initiatives taken by PPP
On 4 July, the Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, under the banner of the Sindh Vision highlighted the PPP’s development initiatives in the province over the last 15 years. The power generation based on Thar coal was 3,240 MW, with Thar Coal Block-I and Block-II alone having the power to ensure Pakistan’s energy security by generating power from local sources, thus saving foreign exchange. The economic security of Pakistan could also be guaranteed through ongoing projects such as the Keti Bandar Park of 10,000 MW and the Dhabeji special economic zones. With regard to housing initiatives for those affected by Sindh floods, he said that the focus is on reconstructing houses for 14 million people and that the validation of two million houses has been completed with 150,000 houses being fully constructed. PKR 112 billion has been secured for the construction of 2.1 million houses, and the initiative as a whole bolstered women’s empowerment, generated more than a million jobs, and facilitated financial inclusion. On health, Shah stated that every child in Sindh is within 30 minutes of free emergency care thanks to the PPP’s partnership with the Child Life Foundation, and in 2023-24, more than a million children received emergency care. New chest pain units, surgical bed complexes, neurology wards, and psychiatry wards have been established. Under the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), 1,500 beds, 82 departments, and 3,943 employees are in place. From 2011 to 2024, 3.7 million patients have benefitted from SIUT’s 12 centres in Sindh. Shah added that his government established Pakistan’s first and largest autism centre, allocated PKR 12 billion for social protection for FY25, undertook major development projects in Karachi, and established nine new universities. (“Thar Coal Block I, II to ensure entire country’s energy security: CM,” The News International, 5 July 2024)
 
Bank of Punjab announces plans to expand “footprint into Bahrain and the UAE”
On 4 July, in a note submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, the Board of Directors of the Bank of Punjab approved the business plan to establish a wholesale banking unit (WBU) in Bahrain and a representative office in the UAE to enhance its regional presence and tap into new markets in the Middle East. This establishment is subject to approval from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), after which the Bank of Punjab will initiate the necessary procedures. A spokesperson from the bank stated: “These strategic initiatives are aimed at strengthening our presence in key markets and better serving our customers by offering a broader range of financial services.” (“Bank of Punjab plans expansion into Bahrain and UAE, pending regulatory approvals,” The News International, 5 July 2024)
 
The “unpredictability” of government policies affects “ordinary people,” argues opinion in The News
On 5 July, in an opinion in The News International titled ‘What’s the deal with our solar policy?’ Usama Abdul Rauf noted how the discourse surrounding net metering and solar panel utilization calls on policymakers to “prioritize coherence and foresight in decision-making processes.” The narrative is primarily shaped by the “volatility in inherent policy shifts,” which are exacerbated by the recent government directives in which a 17 per cent tax was scrapped on solar panels. Though it “seemed like a win,” the government now wants to sell extra solar energy back to the grid and make a 50 per cent cut in prices. This “abrupt reversal” showcases why investor confidence remains fragile, seeing as the “government is passing its problems onto everyday people.” Net metering consumers, who mostly come from the middle class, feel the ramifications of this unpredictability the most as they had taken loans to install net metering systems and “alleviate the burden of soaring electricity costs.” Thus the prospect of a 50 per cent reduction in earnings is both a “financial setback” and also a “disheartening blow to their aspirations for energy independence and financial stability.” On the other hand, IPPs get “sweet deals” and “preferential treatment” from the government, getting PKR two trillion for capacity payments while their plants lay dormant. The “asymmetrical nature of governmental largesse in the energy sector” is also highlighted in the concessionary terms given to Chinese IPPs. Rauf pointed out that in the next few years, the deals with IPPs must be rethought as these companies have “held a lot of sway” over Pakistan’s energy sector, and it is time to “ensure that ordinary people aren’t unfairly burdened.” The unpredictability of policies creates a risk of businesses deciding to move their operations outside Pakistan. To prevent this, the opinion advised negotiating fairer deals with IPPs, encouraging local investment in the energy sector, and preventing monopolies. (Usama Abdul Rauf, “What’s the deal with our solar policy?” The News International, 5 July 2024)
 
Government has chosen the “short-term path” instead of the “sustainable one,” argues opinion in Dawn
On 5 July, an opinion in Dawn titled ‘Taxing the Taxed’ by Faisal Bari expressed “huge disappointment” over the new budget, as it is the “same old story” of taxing those already in the net while “appeasing those who are strong.” The government has taken the “easy route” by increasing taxes for the salaried class, remaining unable to tax retailers, agriculturists, real estate owners, and speculators who have “always evaded taxation.” With the salaried class paying 35 per cent in taxes, the “inequity of the system has only increased.” Bari questioned whether private citizens of Pakistan are not citizens, giving the context of a tax exemption given to defence forces and government employees. He also questioned whether the government looked into the Dubai Leaks case, accusing the state of turning “predatory” by not looking after the interests of its citizens. As per the budget, the government has done nothing to cut its expenses and has increased most “non-productive expenditures” in the form of subsidies to privileged sector groups despite the poor struggling to pay their electricity bills. Bari lamented that despite paying high amounts of tax, “citizens get load-shedding and lectures from the government about the virtue of sacrifice.” The opinion contended that if the poor were given decent education and healthcare, one could argue that the tax money was being spent well. However, 26 million children are out of school, 40 per cent of children are malnourished, and Pakistan remains one of the two countries that has been unable to eradicate polio. Bari acknowledged that the government needs to raise revenue to improve the economy, but asserted that this will not happen if those who are already in the next continue getting taxed. (Faisal Bari, “Taxing the Taxed,” Dawn, 5 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Security forces in GB kill terrorist involved in Chilas bus attack
On 4 July, security forces said that they killed an alleged terrorist in an operation, which also led to the death of four Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) scouts personnel and two civilians in Deral Valley, Diamer district. GB Interior Minister Shams Lone said that forces carried out an intelligence-based operation to arrest three wanted terrorists, who were suspected of being involved in an attack last year, which killed nine people in Diamer. According to the GB government spokesperson, Faizullah Faraq, in the joint operation conducted by the army and GB scouts, Shah Faisal, the suspected mastermind of the attack, was killed. Zahidullah, his accomplice, was injured, and the third terrorist was still on the loose. Zahidullah and the two injured civilians were sent to a government hospital in Deral. Dawn cited Lone who said that the situation is normal in the region, while Faraq told Dawn that the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Road were shut as “precautionary measures.” (Jamie Nagri, “Terrorists involved in Chilas bus attack killed in GB”, Dawn, 5 July 2024)
 
PROVINCES
Punjab: Government wants social media to be shut from Muharram 6 to 11 to control hate content
On 5 July, Dawn reported that the Punjab government asked the interior ministry to shut down social media apps from Muharram 6 to 11, to control the dissemination of hate material and misinformation, thus avoiding sectarian violence. As per sources, the government decided to make this request after getting reports that ‘external forces’ were sharing hate content and memes, including elements across the border. Both the Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order (SCCLO) and the Punjab Home Department said that most hate content was disseminated through social media apps which could be used in spite of an internet suspension. After an SCCLO meeting on 4 July, the Home Department in a letter to the interior ministry requested “social media platforms — Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, etc. — be suspended across the province from Muharram 6 to 11 to control hate material, misinformation and to avoid sectarian violence.” A source added that after the government found that there were more reports of hate material being shared, it realized that the “simple suspension of internet and mobile jamming may not work in the current circumstances.” SCCLO member and Cabinet Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani said that the “dissemination of hate content creates bad blood and spoils the overall environment particularly during Muharram.” (Mansoor Malik, “Punjab govt wants social media gagged for six days of Muharram”, Dawn, 5 July 2024)

In Brief
JUDICIARY
“In Pakistan, justice of any form is, more often than not, difficult to come by,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 4 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Elusive justice” enumerated and discussed the major barriers to justice in Pakistan. The editorial revealed that in a seminar in Karachi on the matter, judges and prosecutors from across the country agreed that there is a “need to urgently reform the colonial-era Code of Criminal Procedure” as it was “the biggest hurdle they faced in ensuring justice.” Other suggestions put forth in the seminar included:  “improved coordination and communication between investigators and prosecutors” to avoid “insufficient or defective evidence,” preventive measures to tackle “frivolous and false litigation,” “depoliticisation of the police” and “proactive legislation on legal reforms.” Further, the editorial described the legal system as “fundamentally broken.” Some of the problems plaguing the legal system delineated by the editorial include: “antediluvian laws,” corruption, understaffing and “inept prosecution and perverse penal systems.” The editorial urged the legislators to proactively fill the existing gaps in the judicial apparatus and emphasized that “the fundamental principles of justice — fairness, equality and entitlement” need to be “institutionalized” before the judicial system in Pakistan can “fulfill its responsibilities.” (“Elusive justice,” Dawn, 4 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Pakistan expected to clinch IMF deal this month
On 4 July, Dawn reported that Pakistan is expected to clinch an IMF deal worth more than USD 6 billion this month having considered and met all of the conditions put forth by the international lending agency. In order to fulfill demands set by the IMF the government has set “challenging revenue targets in its annual budget.” In this regard, the Minister of State for Finance, Revenue and Power, Ali Pervaiz Malik stated “We hope to culminate this (IMF) process in the next three to four weeks.” He further stated ““There are no major issues left to address, now that all major prior actions have been met, the budget being one of them.” The government has set a tax revenue target of PKR 13 trillion for the current the fiscal which is a 40 per cent increase from the previous fiscal. Similarly, the fiscal deficit target has been fixed at 5.9 per cent of gross domestic product which is a significant drop from 7.4 per cent target of the previous year. Malik conceded that these targets have made the budget “unpopular” and would prove to be “burdensome for the local economy.” (“All conditions met for new IMF bailout, says minister,” Dawn, 4 July 2024; Mehtab Haider, “All IMF demands met, new deal to fetch over USD 6 billion: govt,” The News International, 4 July 2024)

Auto industry concerned over duty exemption 
On 4 July, Dawn reported that the financial bill of 2024-25 has introduced a fifteen per cent regulatory duty on imported vehicles valued above 1300 cc. Chairman of Pakistan Association pot Automative Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), Abdul Rehman Aziz, stated that there was an anticipation for “strong measures to discourage the illegal trade of used car imports” as it enables accumulation of black money. He added that the expected sales volume was to arrive at 135,000 units with 35,000 units of imported used cars. However, in the FY 2023-2024, more than 50,000 Pakistanis lost their jobs due to an “influx” of used cars in the market. Aziz also spoke about the “illegal hawala channels” used to make transactions with Japan and the sale of such vehicles locally. An assembler has suggested withholding tax on the vehicle price instead of the engine size. (Aamir Shafaat Khan, “Duty exemption for small used cars irks auto industry,” Dawn, 4 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Former Senator Hidayatullah Khan killed in an IED blast in Bajaur
On 3 July, five people were killed in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast that happened in Sesai village of Mamund tehsil, Bajaur tribal district. Former independent Senator Hidayatullah Khan was also among those killed. Deputy Superintendent of Police Bakht Munir revealed that “Mr Khan was on his way to attend a planned campaign event for his nephew when his vehicle was targeted by an IED.” Malik Irfanullah, a police officer and the senator’s close relative was also killed in the blast. The bomb disposal squad revealed that around 5 kg to 7 kg of explosives were used in the explosion. The police spokesman termed the incident an act of terrorism even though no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The attack has been widely condemned in Pakistan, including by President Asif Ali Zardari, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, the Awami National Party,the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam and several others. Separately, according to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), a “high-profile terrorist” named Irfan Ullah alias Adnan, was killed in an intelligence based operation in Bajaur district. He was alleged to be involved in acts or terror against the security forces and extortions and targeted killings of civilians. (Anwarullah Khan & Adam Khan Wazir, “Ex-senator among five killed in Bajaur blast,” Dawn, 4 July 2024)
 
Land-to-Air missile FN-6 successfully test-fired by the Pakistan Navy
On 3 July, the firing of FN-6 missile which is a land-to air missile was tested by the   Pakistan Navy (PN). The test was successful. A statement by the ISPR revealed that Pakistan Navy’s ground-based air defense system was used to test the firing of FN-6 missiles. PN’s Ground-Based Air Defense System successfully engaged the aerial objectives during the test. Commander Coast Vice Admiral Raja Rab Nawaz, who was the chief guest for the occasion “expressed full satisfaction over the operational preparedness of Pakistan Navy’s Ground-Based Air Defense System.” (“PN successfully test-fires land-to-air FN-6 missile,” The News International, 4 July 2024)
 
“A streamlined military operation is urgently needed,” argues and editorial in The Nation
On 4 July, an editorial titled “Bajaur Again” in The Nation lamented the killing of Former Senator Hidayat Ullah Khan in an IED blast in the Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The editorial revealed that the slain senator had also highlighted “the issues plaguing former FATA, including the vulnerability of politicians in the constituency.” The editorial further referenced the killing of independent political candidate Rehan Zeb Khan before the elections in January in Bajaur and revealed that such targeted killings of politicians are not a novelty in the region. The editorial also revealed that “Bajaur remains one of the areas hardest hit by terrorism” with deep penetration of the terrorists. Lamenting the “ever-compromised” security situation in the area, the editorial has emphasized the need for a “streamlined military operation.” The editorial also suggested that the recently announced counter-terrorism operation, Azm-e-Istehkam, “must take shape sooner rather than later.” (“Bajaur Again,” The Nation, 4 July 2024)
 
PROVINCES
Southern Punjab can play an important role in the “political economy” of Pakistan, argues an opinion in The News International
On 4 July, in an opinion titled “Southern Punjab needs attention” in The News International, Hassan Baig has argued that policymakers must direct their attention to Southern Punjab as given its “semi- or quasi-provincial status, it is expected to play an important role in the “political economy” of Pakistan. Despite being the country’s biggest province, the region has not received appropriate attention leading to a situation that is “dismal.” Southern Punjab has a huge “demographic” and “economic potential.” It is the most productive region when it comes to the agriculture sector with all three of its divisions – Multan, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan, being highly fertile. This region alone contributes 52 per cent to Punjab’s total agricultural production. 40 per cent of the province’s population also lives in this region. Some issues that need focus are: water scarcity in the region, climate change induced problems, poverty, low literacy rate and “deprivation leading to alienation.” The editorial points out that the alienation has resulted in calls for a separate province. The editorial agrees that efforts need to be made “to create a full-fledged province, as promised to the people of southern Punjab.” (Hassan Baig, “Southern Punjab needs attention,” The News International, 4 July 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
Motivations behind external support for terrorist activities warrant further investigation, argues an opinion in The Express Tribune
On 4 July, in an opinion titled “RAW-backed alliance of TTP and BLA out to target CPEC” in The Express Tribune, Durdana Najam highlighted four reasons that that has pushed India in “the international spotlight” in recent times. She discussed in detail the fourth reason: “India’s influence on the Taliban government in Afghanistan its role in fostering an alliance between the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) to sabotage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).” Najam argues that this alleged role played by India was confirmed by TTP’s Khawaraj Defence Shura Commander Nasrullah alias Molvi Mansoor in a video played by Balochistan’s Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove during a press conference. In the aforementioned video, Nasrullah who was arrested by the Pakistani security agencies in an intelligence based operation, points fingers at the Indian Intelligence Agency, RAW for extending “full support” to the Afghan Taliban government, the TTP and the BLA Majeed Brigade group. He revealed that RAW’s mail goal was to “disrupt the CPEC project.” He claimed that “building terror hideouts in Khuzdar, Balochistan, sabotaging the Pakistan-China relationship, and carrying out kidnappings for ransom to create a narrative of forced disappearance” were all part of this strategy. Further, Nasrullah alleged that TTP Chief Noor Wali Mehsud and and BLA Majeed Brigade Commander Bashir Zaid regularly meet with the RAW official at the Indian Embassy in Kabul and both the TTP and BLA have received “financial and logistical support from the agency.” With this information as backdrop, Najam has argued that there is a need to thoroughly investigate the motivations behind external support for terrorist activities in Pakistan. She has also emphasized that terrorists should not be allowed to flee and regroup in Afghanistan, “even if it requires crossing into Afghanistan.” (Durdana Najam, “RAW-backed alliance of TTP and BLA out to target CPEC,” The Express Tribune, 4 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Imran Khan’s detention is an “internal matter,” says government and the US
On 2 July, the government and its allies rejected recommendations made by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention regarding Imran Khan’s detention, calling it a conspiracy against the institutions. Earlier on 1 July, the group had said that the politically motivated cases against Khan were “without legal basis,” which is why the appropriate measure would be to release and compensate him. In response, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar rebuffed the legally non-binding recommendations, asserting that Khan’s detention, which was done as a result of legal action by courts, is an “internal matter.” He stated that Khan, who is in jail as a convicted prisoner, “is entitled to all rights under the Constitution and laws, as well as international principles.” On the same, the US State Department said on 1 July that Khan’s detention is “an internal matter for Pakistan.” Separately, Awn Chaudhry, a former confidant of Khan and currently a government ally, blamed PTI leaders for “hatching a conspiracy against Pakistan,” and being involved in “the worst kind of corruption.” (Syed Irfan Raza, “Govt, US call Imran’s trials ‘an internal matter’,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
Imran Khan addresses party divisions and US resolution while speaking to media reporters
On 2 July, Imran Khan admitted to groupings in the PTI while ruling out any forward bloc in the party, saying he would speak to both groups on 4 July. He ruled out any major differences within the party, adding that there would be “separate judgements for party leaders who faced torture and those who left after seeing their files (of cases against them).” Khan addressed slogans raised against PTI’s Umar Ayub, which had been seen as a sign of internal divisions, and said that Ayub has “sacrificed immensely for the party and has seen a lot of hard times.” Speaking on the resolution passed by the US House of Representatives which called for a probe into alleged poll irregularities, Khan said that it “raised the same questions as those mentioned by Pildat, Fafen, and Pattan.” Given that the whole country along with domestic and foreign media have “questioned the transparency of the election,” it proves that “everyone knows that the election was rigged.” On speculations of whether the PTI had lobbied in the US for this resolution, he argued that despite being the “strongest lobby in the US,” even Israel could never bring such a resolution in its favour. Additionally, Khan asserted that the current government “is a product of rigging, and the whole country is running on lies,” while blaming the interior ministry for harming cricket. (“Imran admits to grouping in PTI,” The News International, 3 July 2024)
 
Legal warrants should be a mandate for states to initiate “surveillance of any individual,” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 3 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Orwellian state’ claimed that the “security apparatus” listens to what ordinary citizens say on their phones, reads messages exchanged between people, and watches what they do on the internet. This observation was made following information submitted to the Islamabad High Court (IHC), which revealed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has “forced telecom companies to implement a mass surveillance system through which up to four million citizens can be monitored at any given time with the click of a button.” The editorial explained that in “Orwellian nomenclature,” this system is known as the ‘Lawful’ Intercept Management System (LIMS), and is run without any checks and balances, enabling “the intrusive eyes and ears of unnamed intelligence agencies to spy on anyone they want.” Recently, news headlines have covered leaked phone calls involving prominent citizens, after LIMS’ existence came to light following IHC Justice Babar Sattar demanding answers from the state on who had the power to conduct such surveillance of citizens. In his order, Sattar noted that data was “being collected without any human intervention or legal warrant,” and was being shared with unnamed agencies. The editorial pointed out that “any citizen at any time can be made vulnerable by the state simply listening to and watching what they are doing and using that information to blackmail them.” While acknowledging that there are “good justifications” for keeping tabs on criminals and terrorists, the state must be required to secure legal warrants as such immense power has the “potential for abuse and the consequences for personal freedoms can be disastrous.” (“Orwellian state,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
PBS data shows 10.54 per cent rise in exports and 0.84 per cent fall in imports during FY24
On 2 July, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) released data showing a 10.54 per cent rise in Pakistan’s merchandise exports from USD 27.72 billion in 2022-23 to USD 30.64 billion in 2023-24. Exports remained positive from July 2023 before turning negative in January, and then regaining momentum from May till June. Exports reached their highest level at USD 31.78 billion in 2021-22, though there was a drop to USD 27.54 billion in the next year. Initiatives by the caretaker government caused a significant export boost in FY24 to USD 30.65 billion. In June, exports increased from USD 2.35 billion a month earlier to USD 2.53 billion, growing by 7.34 per cent. There was negative growth in January (8.38 per cent), February (7.49 per cent), March (0.39 per cent), and April (1.06 per cent). PBS projected an export target of USD 32.3 billion for FY25, indicating a 6.6 per cent increase. However, exporter associations have warned the government over possible negative implications of the tax measures in the FY25 budgets, saying that they could cause a decline in export earnings. On imports, the PBS data showed a 0.84 per cent fall in FY24 compared to FY23, from USD 55.19 billion to USD 54.73 billion. The import target for FY25 has been kept at USD 57.3 billion. Comparing June to May, the trade deficit widened by 30.39 per cent from USD 1.83 billion to USD 2.39 billion. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Exports increase to $30.7bn in 2023-24,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
Slowdown in construction activities causes fall in domestic cement sales during FY24
On 3 July, Dawn reported that a slowdown in construction activities led to a 4.6 per cent fall in domestic cement sales from 40.01 million tonnes in FY23 to 38.18 million tonnes in FY24. Export despatches saw an increase of 56 per cent from 4.56 million tonnes in FY23 to 7.11 million tonnes in FY24, causing a meagre rise of 1.6 per cent in overall cement despatches, from 44.58 million to 45.291 million tonnes. The spokesperson of the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association highlighted the role played by the domestic market in the cement district and called for the attention of policymakers towards the 4.6 per cent decline in domestic sales during FY24. He also pointed out that while the situation requires a reduction in duties and taxes on cement, the decision of the government to double excise duty in the FY25 budget will hamper demand. (“Local cement sales fall on slump in construction,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
PM Sharif calls for enhancing bilateral trade volume with Tajikistan during two-day visit
On 2 July, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the need for expansion in bilateral trade between Pakistan and Tajikistan, while mentioning that the current trade volume did not mirror the strong ties between the two countries. Currently, he is in Dushanbe for a two-day visit, where he addressed a presser alongside Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon and announced the signing of several MoUs. He also assured Rahmon that he would work closely to strengthen ties in the fields of agriculture, education, health, and investment. On strengthening bilateral trade, Sharif said both countries would have to fix targets and transport goods from Karachi port to Tajikistan through Afghanistan, and then from Dushanbe to Karachi via Afghanistan through a rail-road project. He noted Pakistan’s interest in being a part of the China-Tajikistan-Afghanistan trade corridor project to broaden multilateral regional trade, expressing confidence separately over the completion of the CASA-1000 power project. Speaking on security, Sharif lamented that both countries have been victims of terrorism, and said to Rahmon that both countries could collectively combat terrorism. Rahmon underscored the brotherly relations between both countries.
 
According to an editorial in The Nation titled ‘Central Asian Pivot,’ since it is a part of China’s connectivity vision and shares historic cultural and religious links, Tajikistan is a “natural partner” for Pakistan. It can help with providing “transit connectivity, and gas and electricity transmission lanes,” becoming a “central pivot” in South-Central Asia. Since Pakistan faces “persistent setbacks” from its Western neighbour, China is its alternative to send its exports to Central Asian countries. Thus, the editorial advised that Sharif should “discuss the completion of the ongoing CASA-1000 and the possibility of new projects.” With China as its “ever-green friend” and Russia as an “emerging partner,” Pakistan has more opportunities than challenges in the “regional web,” but must “maximize bilateral trade volumes and increase codependency with Tajikistan.” (“PM seeks more bilateral trade with Dushanbe,” Dawn¸ 3 July 2024; “Central Asian Pivot,” The Nation, 3 July 2024)
 
UN ambassador calls on UN to help end conflict in Gaza following Israel evacuation orders
On 2 July, a UN agency warned that around 250,000 would be affected by new Israeli orders for evacuation from Khan Younis, after which Pakistan called for urgent intervention to stop the conflict in Gaza. Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Munir Akram, emphasized that there is “no more apt situation calling for urgent intervention to stop the genocide than in Gaza where the international community has failed to restore peace.” During a UN General Assembly (UNGA) debate, Akram questioned where the “original eloquent proponents of the R2P are,” lamenting that some “block” the UN Security Council from “demanding a ceasefire, while others supply arms to Israel, even after the ICJ called to stop this plausible genocide.” He pointed out that Resolution 2735, which calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, has not been implemented, and stated: “Is this not a situation where the Security Council, acting under the Genocide Convention, reinforced by the R2P doctrine, should intervene to offer protection to the victims in Gaza?” He urged the UNSC to “urgently” consider creating a UN-led force to protect Palestinians while calling on the international community to find the best way to prevent genocides and war crimes. (Anwar Iqbal, “Pakistan seeks urgent UN intervention to stop Gaza genocide,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
US envoy to Pakistan expresses desire increase durability of bilateral relations
On 2 July, the US Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, said in the US Embassy in Islamabad that though the US and Pakistan have had to tackle multiple challenges, those who have “worked together to strengthen this relationship have always recognized that the partnership” has been a “part of a longer journey toward increased prosperity and security” for both countries. He contended that both countries emerged from a “hard-won struggle for independence,” and leaders of both countries share an obsession with “discussing the very purpose” of their societies and politics. Blome noted the “leading role” of American businesses in employing Pakistanis “from top to bottom, training them to the highest technical and management levels,” and also in bringing “American values of openness, transparency, and community citizenship.” Further, he expressed pride in being a part of the US-Pakistan ‘Green Alliance,’ for which the US has contributed USD one billion, and called it a “transformative initiative committed to support Pakistan as it strengthens climate resilience.” Blome detailed the US’ investments in healthcare, such as USD nine million to address tuberculosis and more than USD 85 million to address malnutrition. (“Pak-US partnership part of longer journey toward prosperity, security: Blome,” The News International¸ 3 July 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
Judicial commission unanimously appoints Justice Aalia Neelum as first LHC chief justice
On 2 July, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) unanimously approved the elevation of Justice Aalia Neelum to the position of chief justice of the Lahore High Court (LHC), making her the first woman to hold this position. Neelum was enrolled as an advocate in 1996, later becoming a Supreme Court (SC) advocate in 2008 before being elevated to the LHC in 2013. The Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), Qazi Faez Isa, headed the JCP and approved her elevation after considering three other nominations. Justice Shafi Siddiqui was also unanimously recommended by the JCP to fill the vacant seat resulting from Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi’s elevation to the SC. On 7 June, Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan had been elevated to the SC, vacating the office of the LHC chief justice. According to a ‘well-informed source’ to Dawn, Neelum, who was third in the seniority list of LHC judges, was elevated despite the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) advocating for adherence to the principle of seniority. A few PBC members had also written a letter to Isa on the matter before Neelum’s appointment, in which they stated: “We hope that in the case of the appointment of chief justice in the LHC, seniority principle will be adhered to promote credibility of the judiciary system in the country.” (“LHC gets first woman chief justice Aalia Neelum,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
Afghan Taliban delegation meets Pak officials on sidelines of Doha-III conference
On 3 July, The News International reported that an Afghan Taliban delegation led by Afghan interim government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid met with Pakistani diplomats on the sidelines of the Doha-III conference. The Pakistani Ambassador to Qatar, Muhammad Aejaz, hosted a dinner for the Afghan Taliban delegation which was also attended by senior diplomats including Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Durrani and the country’s Deputy Head of Mission in Kabul Ubaid Ur Rehman Nizamani. Durrani said that both sides discussed developments at the conference along with “bilateral and regional issues.” Aejaz also took to X to state that both countries “remain neighbours and brothers and have a lot in common, including a strong desire for regional peace and security.” As per diplomatic sources, it was an “unusual meeting,” though the Afghan interim government thanked Islamabad for supporting Kabul’s stance in the conference. (Azaz Syed, “Cross-border terrorism row: Afghan Taliban, Pakistan diplomats meet in Doha,” The News International, 3 July 2024)
 
Experts link Taliban takeover to rising terrorism in Pakistan during panel discussion
On 2 July, human rights lawyer Syed Muaz Shah noted a surge in the number of Afghan refugees in Pakistan from 1.44 million to 2.18 million since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan in 2021. During a panel discussion, he noted Pakistan’s sovereignty in carrying out its repatriation policy, in spite of many Afghan refugees being in a situation where they wanted to settle and work in Pakistan. Shah also recognized their right to seek refuge and work in Pakistan under international law. During the discussion, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) expert Brigadier Shozab Majeed pointed out that Pakistan has been able to manage Afghan refugees without foreign assistance since 1996, though it has put pressure on Pakistan’s economy. He advised providing those opportunities to Afghan refugees that would add value to Pakistan and help combat its economic burden and prevent an increase in terrorism. Additionally, former Secretary of Defence, Lt Gen (retd.) Asif Yasin Malik called for incentivising Afghan refugees to repatriate as part of a well-planned and urgent policy action in collaboration with the UNHCR and the Afghan interim government, to ensure the safety of Pakistanis. (Rasheed Khalid, “‘Influx of refugees increased after Taliban takeover’,” The News International, 3 July 2024)
 
The situation is “back to square one” despite Doha-III conference, contends editorial in The News
On 3 July, an editorial in The News International titled ‘Doha talks’ said that despite the Doha-III conference, the situation between Afghanistan and the rest of the world remains “pretty much unchanged,” majorly because the Afghan Taliban delegation did not “pledge to make any reforms on key points of contention such as the exclusion of women and girls from education and other areas of civil life.” The international community for its part “did not make any concessions of its own,” meaning that the “entire scenario is stuck at square one.” While the men who lead the Afghan Taliban are “famed for their resilience” and are unlikely to budge, it is “hard to argue their intransigence is leading to any kind of freedom or liberation for their people.” The editorial pointed out that most other Muslim countries allow women to get an education. Aside from this, the problem of cross-border terrorism, which has “disproportionately affected Pakistan,” is still unresolved as Pakistan remains isolated on the global stage. Despite a meeting between Afghan Taliban and Pakistani officials, it is unclear if there will be any concrete improvement as “similar meetings in the past have not yielded the desired results.” During this meeting, the Pakistan side highlighted that 700,000 Afghans have fled to Pakistan since August 2021, and called for a “conducive environment in Afghanistan for repatriation.” The editorial concluded by questioning what can be done next since the Afghan Taliban will not “budge on women’s party” and the international community will not budge on “helping the Afghan people out.” (“Doha talks,” The News International, 3 July 2024)
 
CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT
Senator Rehman presents annual climate agenda, says government is not solely responsible to combat climate change
On 3 July, The News International reported that the Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Senator Sherry Rehman, presented the annual climate agenda. Announcing plans to summon the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in the next meeting of the Senate’s Committee to discuss monsoon preparedness, she noted: “There is a forecast for unusual monsoon rains in the country. We will receive briefings from the NDMA and the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on forecasts and government measures to manage the rains and potential damages.” Rehman said that committee meetings would be held twice a month while public hearings on climate change issues would be held twice a year, highlighting the importance of collective action in tackling climate change as citizens too must play their part in saving the environment. She spoke on the committee’s focus on renewable energy, asserting that Pakistan “must continue to advocate for the implementation of promises made.” Though constitutional constraints result in the committee’s decision being non-binding on the provinces, Rehman assured that she would “continue to raise climate-related issues of the Islamabad Capital Territory in every committee meeting.” Speaking on the problem of water scarcity, potential droughts, and desertification by 2024, she stated that Balochistan and Sindh are already facing a water crisis while Pakistan’s glaciers are rapidly melting. For this, the committee “will invite the Ministry of Water Resources and other relevant institutions to discuss the water scarcity and the available solutions.” Additionally, on the concern of plastic pollution, Rehman detailed that she “banned the dumping of plastic waste in Pakistan’s maritime boundaries,” calling on the committee to “encourage and ensure a plastic-free world for future generations.” (“Sherry presents annual climate agenda before Senate panel,” The News International, 3 July 2024)
 
Poor execution and “injudicious utilization of funds” weaken disaster preparedness, says editorial in Dawn
On 3 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Coping with disaster’ stated that monsoons in Pakistan come with the “fear of urban flooding, flash floods, and accompanying devastation.” Given the number of times that the Met Office issues warnings of extreme rains and floods, it raises the question of preparedness and of how well Pakistan’s disaster management authorities and civic agencies can “cope and provide relief to the affected communities.” The editorial lamented that the response to the “increasing number of extreme weather events” across Pakistan has “consistently fallen short.” Though successive governments have promised to upgrade urban infrastructure and enhance the disaster management capacity, “little has actually been done,” causing a loss of life and property every year. The “poor execution of these plans and the injudicious utilisation of funds before and during the monsoons” is to be blamed for this. Even in 2024, both national and provincial disaster management authorities have “activated their emergency operations” and told civic agencies to stand ready in case of a potential crisis. However, few believe that this year will be different from the past as it is “impossible for disaster mitigation efforts to keep pace with extreme weather events.” Nonetheless, while many other countries have been investing in urban infrastructure and training civic agencies, in Pakistan, “even large cities like Karachi and Lahore remain ill-prepared and ill-equipped.” The editorial ended by contending that while Pakistan cannot reverse climate change, it can engage in better planning and execution to better “prepare itself to protect its citizens and infrastructure.” (“Coping with disaster,” Dawn, 3 July 2024)

In Brief
POLITICS
Anti-Terrorism Court issues non-bailable warrant against Ali Amin Gandapur
On 1 July, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) dismissed the exemption pleas from attendance of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and PTI leader Aamir Mughal and issued non-bailable warrants against the two. The case pertains to charges filed against Imran Khan and others at the Sangjani police station and I-9 police station. While hearing the case, Judge Sipra stated that not being in the city was “not a valid reason for absence” and that the onus of attendance lay with the accused. He further warned their absence on 8 July after which a day to day hearing is supposed to begin will result in the accused being declared “proclaimed offenders.” Additionally, the court also sought a response from the superintendent of Adiala Jail regarding the appearance of PTI founder Imran Khan via video link. (“Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for Gandapur,” The News International, 2 July 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
Election Commission of Pakistan not a subordinate institution, says CJP Isa
On 1 July, while hearing appeals filed by the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) pertaining to the non-allocation of reserved seats to women and non-Muslims, CJP Isa emphasized that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was “not a subordinate institution to the Supreme Court or the government but an independent authority conferred with a constitutional role to conduct elections.” In this regard, the CJP stated “We may have differences with the conduct of the commission, but we will interfere only when ECP deviates from the Constitution and the law.” Further, the court stated that it could only “exercise its jurisdiction” over the ECP if it has grounds to believe that the latter has “gone beyond the constitution.” The SC also directed the ECP to base their calculations based on formula for reserved seats using the 2018 election results, both after excluding and including the independents. This is so that the bench can understand the difference between the two. Additionally, on the question of alleged rigging in 8 February elections, the SC noted that the court could not review “the conduct of the elections” unless a case comes to it from a lower court regarding the same as it only an appellate body. Separately, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUIF) agreed with ECP’s decision on non-allocation of reserved seats to the SIC and told the Supreme Court that the ECP was right in denying the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) reserved seats for women and minorities in the National and provincial assemblies. (Nasir Iqbal “CJP comes to ECP’s rescue on reserved seats,” Dawn, 2 July 2024; Sohail Khan, “ECP rightly denied SIC reserved seats, JUIF tells SC,” The News International, 2 July 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Annual inflation for 2023-24 reached a “staggering” 23.41 per cent
On 1 July, data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics revealed that the annual inflation for 2023-24 reached a “staggering” at 23.41 per cent. This also means that the recorded inflation “surpassed” the government’s budgetary target set at 21 per cent. The inflation remained high due to increase in prices electricity, gas, and essential kitchen items. The data also revealed that the average monthly inflation “fluctuated over the year.” The headline consumer inflation witnessed a fluctuation over the months: with 28.3 per cent in July 2023, 31.4 per cent in September and started to decline in January 2024. According to the Finance Ministry, the dip in recent months can be attributed to “coordinated policies, lower global commodity prices, improved food supply and the high base effect.” The Ministry also revealed that medium-term inflation is expected to “normalize in FY25 and FY26 due to improvements in the agriculture sector and anticipated favorable global and domestic conditions.” Declining inflation is the key reason that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) cut the key interest rate by 150 basis points, “the first reduction in four years.”(Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Inflation remains elevated at 23.41pc,” Dawn, 2 July 2024)
 
T-bills continue to attract foreign investors
On 2 July, The News International reported that the State bank of Pakistan’s data reveals that Rupee-dominated T-bills continue to be attractive for foreign investors. According to SBP’s data, the bonds attracted a net investment of USD 57 million in June 2024 which has brought the total foreign investment in T-bills through Special Convertible Rupee Accounts (SCRAs) to USD 444 million in the period July 2023 to 7 June, 2024. In May 2024 alone, the inflow amounted to USD 230 million which is the highest monthly inflow in four years. Macroeconomist Ammar Habib Khan explained the situation to The News “due to higher interest rates and the lower expected depreciation of PKR, there has been some movement of US dollars into Pakistan, with investors investing in our local treasury bills.” He further stated “basically means that we have a positive real interest rate, which is why dollars can find more returns here.” (“Foreign investment in T-bills hits $444m,” The News International, 2 July 2024)
 
Closing of Pakistan Steel Mills “about 20 years and several billion dollars too late,” argues an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 2 July, an editorial The Express Tribune argued that the decision to cut off utilities to the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) by the government has come “about 20 years and several billion dollars too late.” This is because even though the PSM has been non-functional since 2015, the laying off of the staff took several years and utilities kept being provided “to keep industrial equipment in working condition.” This has meant a loss of billions for the government. The editorial considers the recent decision to fully shut down the mill as a prudent one given the lack of interest in either privatizing the mill and alternative uses of the land by the federal and provincial governments. Further, proposals for a new mill at the site had also seen vehement opposition earlier and any effort to sell off the mills parts would prove to be “extremely cumbersome” and involve “a lot of due diligence because of the relatively high amount of foreign interest.” Thus, the editorial argues that handing over the PSM to the Sindh government which wants to use the land for “general industrial use, including an export processing zone” makes most sense “especially since the new occupants of the land could be convinced to take over the responsibility and cost of disposing of equipment, which would normally have been borne by the government.” (“Rust in peace, PSM,” The Express Tribune, 2 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Digitized Pak-German Wood Working Centre inaugurated
On 1 July, Special Assistant to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister for Industries, Commerce and Technical Education, Abdul Karim Tordher inaugurated the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system at Pak-German Wood Working Centre. The Centre is a subsidiary of the Small Industries Development Board (SIDB). Others present at the occasion included the Managing Director of SIDB KP, Habibullah Arif, Deputy Managing Directors (DMDs), Nauman Fayyaz, Sahibzada Zulfikar and the Manager of Pak-German Wood Working Centre, including officers and staff. An official statement revealed that the “affairs” of the Centre had been digitized using the “latest software” and all information pertaining to the working of the Centre will now be available online. The digitization was undertaken in order to ensure “modernism and transparency in the performance of the centre as well as better planning of the resources, financial affairs, human resources, purchases and other matters of the organization.” (“Pak-German Centre digitized,” The News International, 2 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
“Limited engagement with the Taliban” is the most feasible option, argues an editorial in Dawn
On 2 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “Limited choices” delineated the “limited choices before the international community” pertaining to their possible engagement with the Afghan Taliban regime and argued that none of these choices are “good ones.” The editorial further highlighted the dilemma of the international community stating that given the human rights record of the regime and its adverse treatment of women and their rights, it is not “advisable for foreign countries to fully embrace the Taliban” without securing guarantees. However, isolating the Afghan Taliban is also not a prudent option as it would mean leaving millions of Afghans, especially its women at the mercy of the regime. In the past, isolating the Taliban had resulted in its moving even closer to Al Qaeda. The editorial argues that “the most feasible course” then is a “limited engagement with the Taliban,” while simultaneously pressuring them change their stance towards women. The full international recognition of the regime should also be made contingent upon their lifting their “stringent curbs on women’s freedom.” The recent decision to involve Taliban representatives in UN-backed discussions in Doha about “the future of Afghanistan” seems to reflect this sentiment. (“Limited choices,” Dawn, 2 July 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
India and Pakistan exchange list of prisoners
On 2 July, India and Pakistan, through a diplomatic channel, exchanged lists of prisoners that each have in their custody. According to a press release by the Foreign Office, these lists are exchanged every year on 1 January and 1 July every year in accordance with the Consular Access Agreement of 2008. The list shared by Pakistan revealed that there are “254 Indian or believed-to-be-Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen in Pakistani jails.” The list shared by India revealed that there are “452 Pakistani or believed-to-be-Pakistani civilian prisoners and fishermen in Indian jails.” Further, a list containing 38 Pakistani defence personnel who are missing and thought to be in Indian custody since the wars of 1965 and 1971was also shared by India. Pakistan has called for “immediate release and repatriation of all Pakistani prisoners” that have served and finished their sentences in India. It has also sought consular access to those physically and mentally challenged in India custody believed to be Pakistani nationals in order to ascertain their nationality. Pakistan has “urged” India to ensure “the safety, security, and well-being of all Pakistani or believed-to-be-Pakistani prisoners.” Due to the government’s efforts, 62 Pakistani prisoners were released in 2023 and 4 have been released in the current year so far. (“Pakistan, India exchange lists of prisoners”, The News International, 2 July 2024)
 
India’s win in T20 World Cup is a win by the “best team,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 2 July, an editorial in Dawn titled “India’s victory” reviewed India’s win the recently concluded T20 World Cup and argued that the “best team,” a team “that held its nerve best when the stakes were the highest” won. The editorial highlighted the best performances of the match: Virat Kohli’s batting, Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling and the most talked about catch by Suryakumar Yadav and argued that India had dominated the series consistently. The editorial also lauded that India “backed” both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma despite their low strike rates and most importantly they kept “faith.”The editorial further argued that the India team looked well placed to win the Cup even without Kohli and Sharma and that the lesson from the tournament is “There is a need to constantly improve to be the best.” (“India’s victory,” Dawn, 2 July 2024)

In Brief
ECONOMY
Auto sector players remain positive on the entry of China’s BYD into Pakistan
On 30 June, Dawn reported on the optimism of auto sector players regarding China’s BYD entering Pakistan in collaboration with Hub Power Company Ltd (Hubco), to locally assemble electric vehicles (EVs) to benefit exports. GM Marketing Division, MG JW Automobiles Syed Asif Ahmed, advised that BYD’s entry “in Pakistan should be looked at from a global perspective instead of [a] regional one,” saying that China would focus on other potential EV markets following restrictions in North America, Europe, and India. This means that “Pakistan can benefit from this global shift by converting its internal combustion engine (ICE) to electric cars, thus reducing fuel bills.” Ahmed noted the importance of bursting “myths” about how EV production in Pakistan would cost more than fossil fuel vehicles and explained: “The breakeven period at the current price of EV versus petrol/diesel-driven vehicles is 1.8 years. The breakeven is calculated taking into consideration the acquisition, operational and maintenance cost of EV versus burners.”
 
On a question of why assemblers are focusing on EVs instead of introducing petrol-driven cars for low and middle-income classes, he said that Pakistan has an inverted pyramid for the automotive market as the demand for high-priced cars is higher. With regard to the future expectations of sales of EVs given limited buyers in Pakistan, he said that since the adoption rate is rapidly increasing, EVs will take less than three years to experience high demand if given the right environment. Currently, in Pakistan, six brands are actively promoting EVs while foreign and local investors are waiting for a conducive business environment in which they can develop charging infrastructure. (Aamir Shafaat Khan, “More competition to amp up electric vehicles adoption,” Dawn, 30 June 2024)
 
Government announces nine per cent increase in gas rate to meet “prior action” of IMF
On 30 June, the government issued a notification saying that there would be a nine per cent increase in gas rates for industrial captive power units from 1 July in order to meet a “prior action” of the IMF. During a special meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), presided over by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the decision was taken to comply with the IMF’s prior action for a three-year loan programme. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra), which had set a PKR 180 per unit reduction in gas prices for FY25 to meet gas companies’ requirements, later went on to ask the government to absorb a PKR 132 billion price cut to combat circular debt. In a summary to the ECC, Ogra stated that “for the anticipated surplus revenues, they may include previous years’ shortfall to the extent of cushion available in the upcoming revenue requirement.” Following this, the ECC approved a 9.1 per cent increase in the gas sale rate to captive plants of the general industry. Meanwhile, the petroleum division stated that Ogra had determined estimated revenue requirements (ERR) for FY25 for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd (SSGCL). The “cumulative revenue requirements of both the Sui companies are PKR 897 billion for 2024-25,”  with SNGPL requiring PKR 607 billion revenue and SSGCL requiring PKR 289 billion. Further, the ECC was notified that 349 industrial units had captive power plants for 523 gas connections. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Gas rates for industry hiked to meet IMF demand,” Dawn¸1 July 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan must act as a sovereign state without foreign interference, says editorial in Dawn
On 1 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Resolution 901’ wrote about Pakistan’s decision to dismiss Resolution 901 passed in the US House of Representatives, as “interference” in Pakistan’s internal affairs and an “attempt to undermine the state.” However, while the US Congress saw 85 per cent of its membership voting 98 per cent in favour of a “full and independent investigation of claims of interference or irregularities” in the 8 February elections, Pakistan’s counter-resolution “did not pass with the same overwhelming support.” The simple majority in Pakistan’s parliament was mainly due to the PTI’s refusal to vote in favour as it was “not consulted.” Instead, the party revelled in the “world’s self-appointed ‘democracy police’ rebuking the Pakistani government.” The editorial opined that the failure of Pakistan’s lawmakers to “stand united in the face of foreign criticism may not have been unexpected, given the vitiated political climate,” but lamented that matters have reached a point where “representatives do not care if the world perceives Pakistan as a house divided.” Those who did not vote in favour were branded as ‘terrorists’ and ‘enemies of the state’ who did not deserve to “call themselves Pakistanis.” Considering this “propensity to spew venom against political opponents,” it is unsurprising that parliamentarians cannot find common grounds “even where questions of national sovereignty are concerned.” The editorial emphasized that though incidents of violence and arbitrary detention highlighted in Resolution 901 are “realities for the Pakistani people, it is not up to a foreign parliament to dictate” how Pakistanis should run Pakistan. Thus, the demand for a transparent inquiry into the elections can only be made by the people of Pakistan. In conclusion, the editorial argued that the “US has its own messy legacy to consider of sabotaging democratic governments and propping up dictators around the world.” Pakistan’s problems are its own to resolve, and it must “learn to act as a sovereign state” after suffering from foreign interference.” (“Resolution 901,” Dawn, 1 July 2024)
 
China is committed to its diplomatic philosophy of creating a mutually-beneficial system, notes opinion in The News
On 1 July, in an opinion in The News International titled ‘Five principles in modern China’s policy, practice,’ Shakeel Ahmad Ramay underscored the importance of historical context when understanding China’s diplomatic philosophy and international relations policy. China’s aspiration to “transform enemies into friends and friendship into brotherhood, a testament to the transformative power of diplomacy,” is reflected in its Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. These were presented by the then-Chinese Prime Minister Zhou Enlai during the signing of the Sino-India agreement. Though China’s adherence to this philosophy has faced challenges such as the “harsh behaviour of Western powers,” it has successfully remained resilient and committed to its diplomatic philosophy. Ramay outlined two distinctive characteristics of the five principles- the first is that the principles “ask us to depart from the past mentality of alliances and work on building partnerships,” and the second is that they “encourage engagement for a win-win economic and development cooperation.”
 
China uses these principles as both rhetoric and also a framework in which it takes “practical actions to demonstrate its will to move on the path of peaceful co-existence,” as part of which it has “successfully avoided alliance-building by working on partnership-building.” Ramay noted the consensus among the community of leaders and experts who believe that China “never pursued hegemony” and instead strived for a “fair and people-centric governance system” along with “dignity-based interaction.” However, China’s President Xi Jinping thinks that since China is now a major power, it will have to be “more dynamic” and adopt a “proactive approach” to shape a respectful and mutually beneficial global system. The opinion noted that this vision “triggered a transition from peaceful co-existence to cooperative, peaceful, and prosperous co-existence.” As part of a community with a shared future, China launched initiatives such as the BRI and GDI. Ramay concluded by stating that this vision is helping eliminate the End of History and the “self-assumed righteous behaviour of Western countries,” which is why an “overwhelming majority of countries have subscribed to the vision.” (Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, “Five principles in modern China’s policy, practice,” The News International¸1 July 2024)
 
SECURITY
Government should be more transparent about Azm-i-Istehkam, says editorial in Dawn
On 1 July, an editorial in Dawn titled ‘Nebulous definition’ expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, saying that it is “worrying that a major counterterrorism initiative announced amidst a dramatic surge in violent incidents seems so untethered from specifics.” The government for its part has “prevaricated about its actual scope and intent,” and has resorted to playing “down its ambitions” after facing “stiff resistance from representatives of the battle-fatigues areas” where the operation is expected to be executed. Though unnamed security sources have confirmed that there would be no mass displacement of civil population or a large-scale military action, it has raised even more questions as to what the operation will be. The editorial mentioned how Pakistan’s ambassador to the US, Masood Khan, recently sought “small arms and modern equipment from Washington” for the operation. During this, he explained that the initiative has “three components: doctrinal, societal and operational.” Separately, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif spoke about potentially “pursuing terrorists in hideouts based in Afghanistan.” However, the editorial argued that these developments seemed to “contradict assurances of the limited scope of kinetic operations” and also contradict what Asif “recently stated about Pakistan not seeking help from Washington for the initiative.” The editorial therefore questioned why there is a “glaring disconnect between what the government intends to do and what it is publicly stating.” If the government wants the operation to be successful, it should “communicate clearly and share a consolidated programme with all stakeholders.” (“Nebulous definition,” Dawn¸1 July 2024)
 
SOCIETY
Government must eliminate myths surrounding polio vaccine, argues editorial in The News
On 1 July, an editorial in The New International titled ‘A stubborn virus’ lamented how the lifelong medical condition of polio, of which there are eight recorded cases in 2024, “could have been avoided had the child received the crucial vaccination.” In 2023, there were six cases, but in the first six months of 2024, the tally has been surpassed already with six cases in Balochistan and two in Sindh. Though environmental sampling helps indicate the virus’ presence, “there has not been any significant action towards tackling the problem.” While Pakistan managed to eradicate polio a few years ago, the “lack of care shown towards maintaining the now-lost status has led to a situation where the polio keeps reappearing now and then.” Official sources have claimed that “thousands” of Pakistani parents “refused to get their children vaccinated” during the last campaign, proving that “anti-vaccine misinformation and propaganda” is still “one of the most formidable barriers to polio eradication.” The editorial pointed out how the virus reemerged during and after the PTI government, showing the possible failure of the Imran Khan-led administration to handle a “top public health priority.” This misinformation, which may have spread more rapidly during the Covid era, has resulted in a dangerous atmosphere for polio workers.
 
Calling on the government to acknowledge that “even one child is too many,” the editorial explained that the government had continuously ignored the “myths and conspiracy theories surrounding the polio eradication programme.” In order to change this “rigid mindset,” the government should take different approaches such as informing parents on the importance of vaccines at the time of their child’s birth and asking schools to gift children in lower grades if they show their vaccination certificates. While the government’s door-to-door campaign is “commendable,” more must be done to “eradicate this stubborn virus” from Pakistan. (“A stubborn virus,” The News International, 1 July 2024)
 
Punjab ready to launch sixth polio eradication campaign of 2024
On 1 July, the Punjab province will roll out its sixth special polio eradication campaign of 2024 in five districts, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Bahawalpur, Lodhran and Muzaffargarh, as part of which over 4.5 million children will be immunized. The head of the polio programme in Punjab, Khizer Afzaal, announced the campaign which will involve over 32,000 polio workers and last for five to seven days, to prevent the local transmission of the virus caused by the movement of mobile populations. He vowed: “With successful campaigns, all samples will be turned negative and children be safeguarded.” Afzaal also expressed confidence in the province’s polio surveillance network to detect any virus circulation and launch a timely response. During a special ceremony of the campaign, Afzaal was joined by renowned cricketers, who urged parents to cooperate with polio teams. (“Punjab set to launch anti-polio drive today,” The News International¸1 July 2024)
 
AF-PAK
Afghanistan “cannot sit idle for reasons of complicity,” says an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 1 July, an editorial in The Express Tribune titled ‘Evolving discord’ highlighted a “visible discord” between Pakistan and Afghanistan as a result of the security situation, and blamed Kabul’s “vendetta-laden rejoinder to Defence Minister Khwaja Asif’s submission that Islamabad could opt for hot pursuit” as being the “root of confusion.” The Taliban leadership had “failed to evaluate where it had blinked,” and Asif thus highlighted the “pathetic equation on the borders” and the Taliban’s failure to keep its promise of “checking non-state actors.” As per data cited by the editorial, in the last five months of 2024, there was a spiral of 80 per cent of terrorist activities inside Pakistan since the TTP remained “unchecked on Afghan soil,” a violation of the Doha Accord 2020 under which the Taliban must “exterminate terror characters apart from ushering in an inclusive government.” The editorial argued that it is “high time for the reclusive dispensation in Kabul to realize that Pakistan has gone out of its way to support the Afghan brethren,” and advised that Afghanistan should act against “unscrupulous elements that are out to destabilize the region” instead of resorting to “knee-jerk reactions.” As a result of the uptick in terrorism that Pakistan is facing, it was compelled to redraft a “counter-intelligence operation in the name of Azm-e-Istehkham.” The editorial concluded by asserting that since the regrouping of the “terror apparatus is an existential threat,” Afghanistan cannot “sit idle for reasons of complicity” and thus must act “in all sincerity.” (“Evolving discord,” The Express Tribune, 1 July 2024)
  
PROVINCES
Sindh: Poor governance has turned Karachi “into ruins,” argues editorial in The News
On 1 July, an editorial in The News International titled ‘This city we once knew’ described Karachi as a city where “prolonged load-shedding of gas and electricity” has become a norm and street crime a “never-ending saga,” making the city an “unlivable” one where “life is at its worst.” Citing the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) in which Karachi is among the five least livable cities, the editorial stated that living in Karachi “has become a soul-crushing experience for almost all classes.” While the elite are protected from financial issues but are vulnerable to a “dismal law-and-order situation,” poor and low-income households face challenges including minimal job opportunities, lack of affordable housing, and water and gas shortages. Meanwhile, the authorities continue to “ignore the plight of the residents” and instead shame them for their “lack of civic habits.” The editorial noted how “improper planning” has resulted in residential neighbourhoods turning into multi-storey buildings “with poor facilities,” to make up for the “ever-increasing housing demand and as a solution to government inaction.” This situation in Karachi, which has stayed the same for years, is largely due to the “lack of political activities” as the city “does not have impassioned candidates interested in governing.” The editorial concluded by questioning for how long stakeholders would “continue to abandon the country’s metropolis,” which has now “turned into ruins.” (“This city we once knew,” The News International¸ 1 July 2024)

Zafar Mirza, ‘New politics at last’
Dawn, 31 May 2024
“The quagmire is evident in our debt-driven economy and shameful human development indicators. Our neonatal mortality rate is second only to that of Lesotho, a sub-Saharan African country. If considered by region, the neonatal mortality rate in Balochistan alone would be the highest in the world. Two indicators put together speak volumes about the mess we have created in Pakistan by ignoring the people: 26 million of our children are out of school, which is the highest number in the world and around 40 per cent of children suffer from stunted mental and physical growth — that is, uneducated, stunted children. But these children are not yours or mine. They are out there somewhere. Sometimes we catch a glimpse of the tip of these icebergs from the windows of our air-conditioned cars, but we never realise the depths of the submerged mountains.”
 
Syed Mohammad Ali, ‘Withering freedom of expression’
The Express Tribune, 31 May 2024
“It should not be surprising to note that less than a quarter of the global population is now considered to be living in countries which are described as being ‘open’ or offering ‘less restricted environments’ to freely express opinions. This categorisation is based on the Global Expression Report, which offers a data-driven assessment measuring the freedom to express, participate, and communicate ideas not only by journalists and activists but also by ordinary citizens.”
 
Kamila Hyat, ‘Where are we headed?’
The News International, 31 May 2024
“In the first place, there appears to be a complete absence of any kind of policy planning. Indeed, this has been the story of Pakistan, decade after decade, since it was created in 1947. At an average of every 20 years, a new education policy is put in place. This is not the right way to take forward education, or for that matter anything else, on an incline, which will lead to success and achievements in that field. A consistent policy is required to reach any destination. Wavering along a path which twists and turns in various directions according to the whims and fancies of the current government simply diverts from this. At the present moment, we have a situation where at least half of the population is functionally illiterate and perhaps a far larger percentage than that is barely able to write a simple sentence in any language. This ability is expected of a grade 5 student, according to international educational standards.”
 
Editorial, ‘‘Mob justice’ courts’
Dawn, 31 May 2024
“Ideally, the criminal justice system and the existing courts should have the capabilities to investigate and try cases of mob violence. But because this alarming trend appears to be growing, special courts could be used to deal with the problem. If the state does establish ‘mob justice’ courts, they need to be staffed with regular judicial officials, and not members of the clergy. Moreover, they should deal with cases of alleged desecration, as well as mob violence committed in the name of punishing ‘criminals.’ These institutions should not go the way of antiterrorism courts, which were set up to deliver ‘speedy’ justice, yet have failed to live up to their mandate.”
 
Editorial, ‘This land is our land?’
The News International, 31 May 2024
“All this leads one to question what the point of gaining independence was if our leaders do not plan on reforming or doing away with the laws of our former colonial masters. If the empire was unjust, how can its laws be otherwise? Aside from an outdated legal system, this issue also points to a highly unequal one. A poor man’s house or shop can become an encroachment but an expensive housing colony built over seized farmlands is apparently all above board. More pertinently, the spread of encroachments is largely a consequence of the inability to provide adequate housing to the poor. This should be the solution to the encroachments, not furthering the destitution of the underprivileged by forcing them from their homes.”

Editorial, ‘Escalating crime’
The Express Tribune, 31 May 2024
“To address this spiraling crisis, heightened police presence in crime hotspots should be visibly heightened to deter potential offenders. Such dedicated police units must be better equipped with advanced technology and resources to track and apprehend criminals swiftly. Apart from this, corruption within the police must be eradicated through stringent accountability measures. The police force itself must undergo a comprehensive overhaul.”

In Brief 
POLITICS
Imran Khan acquitted in two more 9 May cases
On 30 May, a district and sessions court in Islamabad acquitted Imran Khan in two more 9 May related cases due to “insufficient evidence.” The reserved verdict was announced by Judicial Magistrate Umar Shabbir. The cases were registered in the Shahzad Town police station, after Khan’s arrest on 9 May from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) premises that had triggered nationwide protests including attacks on military installations. PTI lawyer Mirza Asim Baig stated that the FIR was lodged against Imran Khan accusing him of Section 109, however, no evidence had been provided. According to the Judicial Magistrate’s verdict, the FIR had accused Khan of inciting others. The verdict claimed insufficient evidence to prove Imran Khan’s guilt and it stated “the court cannot proceed with the case against the PTI founder based on such evidence.” Earlier this month Khan had also been acquitted in another 9 May case registered at Khanna Police Station. (“Court acquits Imran in two May 9 cases,” The Express Tribune, 30 May 2024)
 
Council of Islamic Ideology reiterates its demand for the establishment of a special court to try ‘mob vigilantism’ cases
On 29 May, the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) in a meeting condemned the mob vigilantism culture in the country and reiterated the demand for the establishment of special courts to investigate cases related to it.  The meeting was convened after a frustrated mob went on a rampage following rumors that some torn pages of the Holy Quran had been found outside the home of a Christian in Sargodha’s Mujahid Colony on 25 May. The meeting was chaired by  CII’s new head, Dr Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naimi. The council also issued a statement condemning the act: “The Council condemned the sacrilege of the [Holy] Quran and those who attacked the Christian families and their homes, and urged “severe punishment” for the both sides. Dr Niami also stated that “There is an urgent need to impart awareness and knowledge among citizens that they cannot take law into their own hands, especially since mob justice is against the teachings of Quran and Sunnah, as well as the Constitution.”

In September, a similar meeting had been called to discuss the 16 August Jaranwala incident and establishment of special courts had been suggested to the government. A similar suggestion had been made by the CII in December 2021 after a mob lynched Priyantha Kumara Diyawadanaa. , (Kalbe Ali, “Council of Islamic Ideology suggests special courts to try ‘mob justice’ cases,” Dawn, 30 May 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
Government reveals whereabouts of “missing” poet to IHC
On 29 May, the government disclosed the whereabouts of the “missing” poet Ahmed Farhad Shah to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) revealing that he had been arrested by the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir police. Later, he was kept in the Dhirkot Police Station and an FIR was filed. AGP Mansoor Usman Awan informed the IHC judge that Shah was arrested under Section 186 of the "Azad Penal Code" (APC), the PoK version of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). An FIR was filed for “obstructing the discharge of official functions.” However, his family stated that he had been shifted to Muzaffarabad station and charged with many cases. SSP Muzaffarabad Yaseen Baig confirmed that Mr Shah had been given to the Saddar police, where he faced various sections of APC, Telegraph Act, and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. He also claimed that Mr Shah was produced before the Magistrate and remanded in custody for three days. The revelation pushed the IHC to question functions of spy agencies into a grey area. Justice Kayani also asked whether there was any rift between the judiciary and other institutions. Earlier, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani farmed 12 questions related to the functions and obligations of spay agencies like Inter-Services Intelli­gence, Military Intelligence, and the Intelligence Bureau. (Malik Asad and Tariq Naqash, “‘Missing poet’ resurfaces in AJK police custody,” Dawn, 30 May 2024)
 
ECONOMY
PML-N organizes a special meeting to review upcoming budget preparations
On 29 May, a special meeting was held by the PML-N to review the upcoming year’s budget preparations. In the meeting, it was decided that the financial plan will be finalized in accordance with the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s demands. Proposals for “drastic” cuts in the government expenditure were also mulled over. The budget might, however,  be delayed to the second week of June due to PM Shehbaz Sharif’s scheduled visit to China from 4 to 8 June. The National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, however, will be held as per plan on 3 June.  According to Dawn, the budget process is being directly monitored by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and his team. Several forums seeking finalization of macroeconomic targets and determining the size of the public sector development program (PSDP) are waiting for the final clearance from the team. Preparation for the formal summaries and their calculation for the Annual Planning Coordina­tion Committee meeting is lined up for 31 May. (Zulqernain Tahir and Khaleeq Kiani, “‘Pro-people’ budget in the works at Jati Umra huddle,” Dawn, 30 May 2024)
 
Pakistan has received foreign loans amounting to USD 7.14 billion in the current fiscal
On 30 May, The News International reported that Pakistan has received a total of USD 7.14 billion dollar in foreign loans in the first ten months of the current fiscal. This is not inclusive of the USD 3 billion provided by the International Monetary Fund under the Standby Arrangement (SBA) programme. If this is added, the total disbursement would amount to USD 10.3 billion, which is lesser than USD 13 billion which was received during last ten months of the previous fiscal. The USD 7.14 billion dollar in foreign loans also includes USD 100 million oil facility from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) facility of ITFC. However, the requested oil facility on deferred payment by Pakistan from Saudi Arabia has not been resumed yet. Separately, the Ministry of Finance has accepted that expenditure remains “expenditure remains under significant pressure due to rising mark-up rate.” This has been managed by adopting “a prudent expenditure management strategy” leading to a reduction in mark-up rate.  Consequently, a primary surplus of 1.5 per cent of GDP has been achieved raising hopes that the full-year primary surplus target of 0.4 per cent of GDP can be met. (Mehtab Haider, “Pakistan receives $7.14bn inflows in first 10 months of fiscal year,” The News International, 30 May 2024)
 
SECURITY
Another girls’ school attacked in North Waziristan
On 27 May, the Golden Arrow Public School for girls in Shakhimar village, in North Waziristan was set on fire during the night by unidentified miscreants. The furniture, ceiling, and computers were all destroyed.  The school was established with the help of the Pakistan Army’s Seventh Division and the Shakhimar Welfare Society. Earlier in March, the school had been fired at by unidentified armed men causing damage to its solar system. The local people denounced the incident and demanded swift reconstruction of the school. Previously, on 10 May, a private school for girls in Shewa tehsil in North Waziristan had been blown up by suspected militants. (“Girls’ school torched in Waziristan,” The News International, 29 May 2024)
 
Pakistan’s nuclear programme does not commit to ‘No First Use (NFU) policy, says National Command Authority advisor
On 29 May, during a seminar at the Centre for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Adviser to the National Command Authority (NCA) Lt Gen (retired) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai stated that Pakistan’s nuclear programme does not commit to ‘No First Use (NFU) policy regarding nuclear weapons. There have been speculations around Pakistan’s stance on NFU as it has deliberately maintained “ambiguity” in response to India’s stance. Kidwai further stated: “The Indian gung-ho leadership may like to think about it there should never ever be a doubt in anyone’s mind, friend or foe, that Pakistan’s operationally ready nuclear capability enables every Pakistani leader the liberty, the dignity and the courage to look straight into the Indian eye and never blink.” His statement has come at a time when there are “contentious discussions about Pakistan’s nuclear programme during the ongoing Indian elections.” Kidwai also hinted at the need for “Advancements in technology including what is referred to as emerging technologies” to boost the nuclear programme. In addition, he went on to highlight the horizontal nuclear weapons deployment of robust tri-services. It includes Army Strategic Force Command (ASFC) at land, Naval Strategic Force Command (NSFC) at sea, and in the air with Air Force Strategic Force Command (AFSC). Vertically it includes increasing destructive weapon yields and range coverage, he added.

Similarly, Director General of the Arms Control and Disarmament Affairs (ACDA) branch of the SPD, retired Brig Zahir Kazmi mentioned some of the emerging and enduring threats to the country’s nuclear programme. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “‘Pakistan doesn’t have No First Use policy’,” Dawn, 30 May 2024)
 
Four Pakistani nationals killed and two injured -in cross-border firing by Iranian forces
On 28 May, four Pakistani nationals were killed and two others injured during a firing by Iranian forces along the Judar-Bacharai border in the Washuk district of Balochistan. A senior official from the Mashkel administration confirmed: “Iranian forces opened fire inside the Pakistani border.”An official posted at the border revealed that the killed and injured Pakistanis were involved in the supply of Iranian smuggled oil. However, Akhtar, one of the injured, stated that they were waiting for the oil consignment when they were fired at.  He also revealed that four Iranians had been killed and taken away by the Iranian forces. (Saleem Shahid, “Four killed in firing from across Iranian border,” Dawn, 30 May 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
EXIM Bank of the US interested in financing the Reko Diq gold and mines project in Pakistan 
On 30 May, The Express Tribune reported that the Export-Import (Exim) Bank of the United States has shown interest in funding the Reko Diq gold and mines project. The estimated cost of the project is expected to be between USD 6 billion to USD 6.5 billion and the project requires USD 3 billion to USD 3.5 billion in debt financing. Pakistan is considering a US loan for the procurement of earth-moving machinery for the Reko Diq project. The loan, however, is contingent upon granting preferred creditor status to the Exim Bank, a status which is available only to multilateral lenders. The matter has been discussed at the level of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and the US Ambassador to Islamabad, Donald Blome. The spokesman of the finance ministry, Qamar Abbasi, also said that “a number of financial institutions are exploring the possibility of financing the Reko Diq project.” A spokesperson for the US embassy underscored that the US is committed to working with Pakistan to promote the US-Pakistan trade, investment, and overall economic relationship. If all sides agree to a deal, it would be the first major US investment in Pakistan in decades. Based on the Saudi Arabian investors’ briefing, the project is expected to have a life of at least 40 years and is expected to be completed in two phases with a combined process capacity of 80 million tonnes per annum. The US lending would also help in securing loans from other creditors.. (Shahbaz Rana, “US interested in giving loan for Reko Diq mining project,” The Express Tribune, 30 May 2024)

MARITIME
MSC Anna, the largest ever container vessel, docks at South Asia Pakistan Terminals (SAPT)
On 29 May, MSC Anna, the largest container vessel docked at the South Asia Pakistan Terminals (SAPT). The vessel is 400 meters long and equipped with a capacity of 19,368 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU). The Karachi Port Trust referred to it as “a testament to the country’s growing maritime capabilities” and “a significant milestone in the maritime history of Pakistan.” The Hutchison Ports Pakistan welcomed the vessel. CS Kim, CEO of Hutchison Ports Pakistan stated: “Hutchison Ports Pakistan is proud to host such massive ships, reflecting our commitment to enhance Pakistan’s maritime industry.” Larger vessels are expected to reduce shipping costs, boost government revenue, enhance port activities, bolster trade and contribute to economic growth. (“Maritime milestone for Pakistan as ‘largest’ container vessel docks at KPT,” The News International, 30 May 2024)

I share the grief of the families who lost their loved ones in the accident. Balochistan government should ensure better treatment of the injured. There is a need to create a new traffic mechanism with the help of modern technology to prevent accidents, citizens should also play their role: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari - PPP   Imran Khan's message has always been clear: the Armed Forces must stay within their constitutional bounds. Whenever they have chosen to go beyond & act against their own people, the country has paid a heavy price including the break-up of Pakistan. Unfortunately, the lessons of history have not been learnt as the same mistakes continue to be repeated with the same disastrous results. - Imran Khan   Another U-Turn by Imran Munafiq Khan. Now he’s saying that America was not involved in conspiracy, only Bajwa was. “After 11 months in prison, I am certain that this ordeal orchestrated solely by Gen Bajwa. I hold no one else responsible”. What about “Absolutely Not” now? JHUTA! - Saad Kaiser

“In Pakistan, health inequalities are visible to the naked eye.” -An opinion in Dawn, ‘Plugging the gap’

Rafia Zakaria, ‘The approaching verdict’
Dawn, 29 May 2024
“However, at the end of the day, a felon is a felon, and a felon is what Donald Trump will be if the jury of 12 New Yorkers decides that the prosecution has met its burden of proof and shown beyond reasonable doubt that the former president did, in fact, order his attorney to pay hush money to Daniels and then lied about it on his business records. The prosecution’s main witnesses, Stormy Daniels herself and the attorney Michael Cohen, performed well on the witness stand. While the defence was able to poke some holes into the credibility of attorney Michael Cohen, it is unclear if this helped, because the fact that a shady character like Cohen would be Trump’s attorney boosts the perception that Trump was doing shady things. Similarly, Daniels was able to hold her own on the stand despite protracted efforts by Trump’s attorneys to highlight her work in the sex industry as the basis for her lack of credibility.”
 
Abdul Rafay Siddiqui, ‘It’s a seth’s world’
The News International, 29 May 2024
“The employee is at the mercy of the ‘seth’ – the supreme leader who not only controls the working hours of the employee but may also control the personal time of the employee. WhatsApp messages, phone calls and emails after working hours have been normalized and considered accepted practice to fulfil company goals and objectives. Every matter has become urgent. We may recall from our childhood that when our parents came home from work, they would spend time with their children, watch television, have dinner and help with our homework. However, today’s children will grow up watching their parents work on laptops, even after their parents have arrived home. This is not a healthy work-life balance.”
 
Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, ‘Do we need a Charter for Change?’
The News International, 29 May 2024
“First things first, let’s recognize that Pakistan is not lacking in policies. On the contrary, there is an abundance of policies and counter-policies across various sectors, each designed with specific objectives in mind. However, the implementation of these policies often occurs within isolated departmental boundaries, leading to missed opportunities for synergy and collaboration. This lack of an integrated approach results in policies that do not complement or support one another, ultimately undermining their effectiveness. This fragmentation is particularly problematic for a country like Pakistan, where interrelated challenges require cohesive and coordinated responses.”
 
Editorial, ‘First steps’
Dawn, 29 May 2024
“On Saturday, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur finally attended the SIFC meeting to which he had previously not been invited, and it seems to have gone well. The federal information minister later issued a glowing appraisal of the development, stating, “I think today’s meeting was held in a very cordial atmosphere with great positivity […] I think the good thing is that a message of unity was sent after today’s SIFC meeting that the centre and the provinces are on one page.” Mr Gandapur, too, described it as “a very good meeting”, while iterating that his province’s resources should benefit both its residents and the larger country. He promptly apprised his party chief, Imran Khan, of the discussion in a visit to Adiala Jail. Then, on Monday, the KP chief minister also managed to reach an understanding with the ministers of interior and power over his province’s power issues, signalling a shift away from his government’s confrontational stance.”
 
Editorial, ‘Hostage to the mob’
The News International, 29 May 2024
“Pakistan has decided to ignore the ever-evolving problem of intolerance that has been eating away the country’s social fabric. Last week, mob violence in Sargodha once again reminded authorities of their failure to protect minority communities in the country. According to reports, on Saturday (May 25), a Christian family was targeted by a mob when the family’s neighbours alleged they were guilty of blasphemy. Other members of the Christian community were also attacked. Thankfully, the situation was brought under control after the police rescued the two Christian families and thwarted the lynching attempt. The incident was dangerously similar to the Jaranwala mob attack last year that left scores of homes and buildings belonging to Christians burnt and severely damaged.”

In Brief 
POLITICS
President Gilani signs two ordinances (Elections Act (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) (Amendment) Ordinance 2024)
On 27 May, Acting President Yousuf Raza Gilani signed two ordinances on the recommendation of PM Shehbaz Sharif. After the approval from the federal cabinet the ordinances were promulgated. The two ordinances signed were the Elec­tions Act (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) (Amendment) Ordinance 2024 into law. The NAB ordinance extends the remand period of the accused from 14 to 40 days and the sentence period of an officer convic­ted of framing cases based on ill will is reduced to two years from five years. On the other hand, under the Elections Act Ordinance 2024, retired judges will become members of the election tribunals alongside those serving Earlie, he previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and caretaker administration had amended the legislation to prevent the NAB from investigating instances involving less than PKR 500 million. Similarly, the earlier amendment had shortened from the remand duration from 90 to 14 days. (Syed Irfan Raza, “President signs NAB, election ordinances,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)
 
IHC overrules objection raised on PTI’s petition against the CDA act
On 27 May, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz overruled the objection raised by the IHC registrar’s office to a petition filed by the PTI against the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) raid on its central secretariat. The registrar’s office had objected on the grounds that the petition was filed without due authorization. The hearing was scheduled for 28 May, however, on account of a public holiday, the case will be rescheduled accordingly. The PTI in its petition termed the attack on its secretariat as “without having lawful authority, mala fide, political victimization, without adopting a due process of law and contrary to the provisions as enunciated under the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973.” The petition further mentioned that members of the PTI Central Finance Board Arshad Dad and Naseem ur Rehman bought the plot as per the agreement signed on 17 July 2020 from Sartaj Ali. The PTI in its petition condemned the acts of CDA and the police for unlawfully demolishing the Central Secretariat and requested the court to announce CDA illegal. (Malik Asad, “IHC overrules office objection to PTI petition on office razing,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)
 
Nawaz Shariff to be re-elected as the President of PML-N after six years
On 28 May, Dawn reported that Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is set to be re-elected as the PML-N president in a general council meeting of the ruling party at Lahore. He is all set to contest the election after six years of losing his President’s office due to a Supreme Court decision in the Panama Papers case in 2018. He is likely to be re-elected unopposed even though 11 party members have received nomination papers. PML-N Punjab President Rana Sanaullah also hinted at his re-election in a press conference. Sanaullah highlighted that after Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, it was Nawaz Sharif who “made the party vibrant.” The announcement of his re-election came when the members of the PML-N Punjab passed a resolution which said “Nawaz Sharif was disqualified in 2017 by the Supreme Court through a conspiracy. Now it’s time that he assumes the office of the party president and leads the party to new heights of popularity.” (Zulqernain Tahir, “Nawaz set to retake PML-N reins after six-year hiatus,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Government mulls removing tax exemptions for high-income individuals
On 28 May, Dawn reported that the government is likely to “revoke” tax concessions given to high-income individuals. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had advised the Pakistan government to treat both salaried individuals and non-salaried individuals’ income as personal income which will increase the tax burden on the salaried class. However, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) disagrees as both cannot be treated equally. Until now, the “revenue measures” devised for the budget 2024-25 are PKR 500 billion and are likely to change after the IMF’s final projections. FBR estimates the autonomous revenue will surpass PKR 1,150 trillion in the Fiscal Year 2025.  It also suggested raising the tax exemption for the salaried class to PKR 1.2 million in 2024-25. Later, the decision was changed downward to PKR 900,000 from the existing exemption limit of PKR 600,000. FBR has discussed pension tax changes with the IMF, which aims to match salary slabs to pensioner income. The FBR has objected to a salary slab for pensioner income and proposed an alternative mechanism for taxing richer pensioners. The FBR has calculated no revenue impact of tax on pensions. The IMF has asked the FBR to collect taxes from traders and wholesalers. No agreement has been reached to increase regulatory tariffs on imports, and the government plans to raise existing withholding tax rates and introduce new ones. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Budget 2024-25: Govt considers proposal to withdraw tax waivers for the rich,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)
 
SECURITY
23 terrorists killed and seven troops martyred in KP, reveals ISPR
On 28 May, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) revealed that 23 terrorists and five soldiers had been killed in three separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). On 26 May, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Hassan Khel area of Peshawar, during which Captain Hussain Jehangir and Havildar Shafiq lost their lives. Further, six terrorists were neutralized and several hideouts were discovered. On 27 May, in an operation carried out in the Tank district, security forces attacked the terrorists’ location and killed ten of them. Another operation was carried out in the general area of Bagh, Khyber District, wherein, the security forces killed seven terrorists, while two terrorists were injured. Additionally, due to intense fire exchange, five soldiers died. The funeral was held at Peshawar Garrison, which was attended by General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and a large number of military and civil officials. (Muhammad Anis, “In 24 hours: 23 terrorists killed, 7 troops embrace martyrdom in KP,” The News International, 28 May 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
China supports Pakistan’s Bisham attack inquiry findings
On 27 May, the Xinhua news agency stated that Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning has backed Pakistan’s probe into the 26 March suicide attack which had killed Chinese engineers in Bisham and emphasized that eliminating terrorism is in the “interest of all countries.”  The development came after Pakistan claimed that the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), based in Afghanistan, and hostile foreign intelligence agencies were responsible for the Bisham attack. However, China’s remarks have no specific mention of Kabul. Mao Ning stated: “China supports Pakistan in continuing to get to the full bottom of what happened, and hunting down and bringing to justice all the perpetrators.” She further showed China’s unwavering support for the two nations to strengthen security cooperation and ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan. Mao Ning urged all the countries in the region to boost counter-terrorism operations by referring to terrorism as a “common enemy of humanity and a scourge against regional development and stability.”
 
Separately, on 27 May, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had demanded the arrest of three alleged terrorists and the entire leadership of the banned TTP for their involvement in the Bisham attack by the Afghan interim government. (“Beijing ‘supports’ Bisham attack probe findings,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)
 
PROVINCES
KP: CM and Interior minister discuss and devise a plan to resolve the electricity issue
On 27 May, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi discussed the electricity issue and devised a mechanism to resolve it. Federal Minister for Energy Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and the federal interior secretary also participated in the meeting. During the discussion, CM Gandapur expressed concern over the 18hour daily load shedding plaguing the province and stated: “We have come together to ensure that losses in the system will be addressed and mechanisms will be put in place to prevent them.” CM highlighted the several meetings held between Naqvi and Leghari and said until the mechanism is fully developed, the Centre will provide relief for the province. He also promised the implementation of solar energy for the public’s benefit. Leghari commented that despite partisanship, the federal government and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf have “recognized the damages done to this country” and come together for a solution.  Leghari also confirmed the devised plan will be announced on 28 May.  (Usama Iqbal, “Centre, K-P bury the hatchet to tackle power woes,” Dawn, 27 May 2024)

Balochistan: Assembly adopts resolution for the establishment of a committee on CPEC and on ‘Youm-i-Takbeer’
On 27 May, the Balochistan Assembly passed a resolution to establish a special committee to monitor issues related to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. Provincial Finance Minister Mir Shoaib presented the resolution in the assembly and was adopted by the house. Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti stated that even though Balochistan is an important player in the CPEC, the “effects” of CPEC though apparent in other provinces are “not visible” in Balochsitan. Separately, Provincial Minister Abdul Rahman Khetran passed another resolution on ‘Youm-i-Takbeer’ to felicitate the day Pakistan became the seventh nuclear power in the world and the first in the Islamic world on 28 May 1998. Further, he praised the country’s scientists, military leadership, and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for conducting nuclear explosions. (“Balochistan to set up panel on CPEC,” Dawn, 28 May 2024)

When in the government of Imran Khan When Dr. Abdul Qadir Sahib died, he did not get the official protocol and neither did Imran Khan attend his funeral. - Imran Bilal   Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif congratulated the Acting President on his son Ali Qasim Gilani's historic victory in the by-elections from Constituency 148. - PPP   The patriotism and hard work of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan late and deceased made Pakistan a nuclear power country today. We thank Allah, and pay tribute to Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan. We seek forgiveness from Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan. - Sharjeel Inam Memon

“State elements now face a unique challenge in sustaining their hegemony.” -An opinion in Dawn, ‘More difficult now’

Umair Javed, ‘In defamation’s name’
Dawn, 27 May 2024
“Before getting into these in detail, there is sufficient ground to wonder whether a defamation law of this nature helps in addressing its targeted problem in the first place. There is no denying that the widened use of social media outlets has created an oversupply of information, much of which is free from the burden of factual rigour or accuracy. It is also true that the proliferation of such information happens at a much faster rate now, with intended, or otherwise, effects taking place more rapidly and at a wider scale.”
 
Mohammad Ali Babakhel, ‘Moving bombs’
Dawn, 27 May 2024
“The militants also use parked VBIEDs, which resemble SVBIEDs but are parked at a location and detonated remotely. Parked VBIEDs lack drivers and function as larger, disguised stationary IEDs. Different vehicles provide varying storage capacities to place explosives as needed, effectively targeting and ensuring maximum damage. Usually, VBIEDs are employed by terrorists against large targets to facilitate forced entry and create significant impact. To increase the explosion’s impact, a few SVBIEDs were designed and used on some occasions by IS with rooftop rocket pods and a firing mechanism that enabled the drivers to suppress fire from the SVBIED’s target. In some instances, explosives are mounted on the doors and windshields’ interiors to direct as much of the explosive power of the blast forward and to the sides. The payload arrangement also included crude oil to increase the primary blast effect upon detonation of the main payload and ensure that the remnants at the site were burned, causing more losses.”
 
Amanat Ali Chaudhry, ‘Multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow’
The News International, 27 May 2024
“Given the importance of the SOTF, Pakistan has taken a lead role in shaping the agenda and outcome of the summit. Apart from participating actively within the Group of 77 and China (developing countries) on development issues, Pakistan has organized a cross-regional group of like-minded countries, including Algeria, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Egypt, Eritrea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Nicaragua, Nigeria, the Russian Federation, Sri Lanka, Syria, Venezuela and Zimbabwe, to ensure that the ‘Pact for the Future’ upholds the core principles of the UN Charter and promotes the interests and priorities of the Global South. Pakistan has emerged as a pivotal voice in the ongoing negotiating process.”
 
Ali Hassan Bangwar, ‘Poverty in Pakistan’
The Express Tribune, 26 May 2024
“Poverty is the inability of people to afford basic necessities of life. In other words, it’s a condition in which a person is constrained (financially, among others) from affording the necessities of life. A poor person, in this regard, is one who is financially constrained from buying the needful. There are two commonly applied parameters for measuring or quantifying poverty: the poverty line, also called the breadline or poverty threshold, and the multidimensional approach to poverty.”
 
Editorial, ‘Mercury rising’
Dawn, 27 May 2024
“SHOULD we expect a political heatwave this summer? The climate seems to be rather conducive to it. The two largest parties are once again on the warpath, with a slew of troubling developments precluding any hopes for the long-awaited normalisation of political temperatures. In Lahore, the chief minister of Punjab has approved the registration of fresh cases against the PTI leadership, this time for “building a hateful narrative against state institutions”. It appears that the PML-N government will rely on the odious defamation bill it recently passed in the Punjab Assembly to go after its chief rival.”
 
Editorial, ‘Journalists in danger’
The News International, 27 May 2024
“Yet another journalist has lost his life, this time 40-year-old journalist Nasrullah Gadani who worked with a Sindhi daily called ‘Awami Awaz’. Gadani was shot by some unidentified armed men in Ghotki, Sindh a few days ago and succumbed to his injuries on Friday. The now-silent timeline of Gadani on different social media sites shows the work of a journalist who was passionate about holding the powerful to account. He regularly covered protests held in different parts of Sindh against the area’s influential landlords. His wide range of work could easily explain why some thought that his voice had to be silenced. Journalism in Pakistan has become a dangerous territory where investigative stories involving powerful and influential people usually put a journalist’s life in danger. In August 2023, journalist Jan Mohammad Mahar was shot dead by unknown assailants in Sukkur. In 2021, journalist Nazim Jokhio was found dead at a Malir farmhouse.”

In Brief
POLITICS
PTI criticizes CDA action, accusing government of “fascist tendencies” and predicting “system collapse”
On 24 May, at a news conference held at the PTI’s now partly demolished central secretariat, PTI’s Core Committee Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan accused the Capital Development Authority (CDA) of “violating” the “sanctity” of the party’s secretariat by “invading” it. He also argued that systematic targeting of the PTI was aimed at diverting attention from the recently revealed “Dubai leaks.” Gohal Ali Khan revealed that a petition has already been filed in the Islamabad High Court against the CDA’s action and that the case would be heard on 27 May. He was supported by other PTI leaders present at the scene. Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub stated that the demolition has sparked an “intifada” for the “restoration of democracy” and vowed to continue the struggle against the government. PTI leader Raoof Hassan alleged “state tyranny” against PTI for the last two years and also revealed that Imran Khan has expressed concerns regarding threat to his life. However, PML-N MNAs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Anjum Aqeel have defended the CDA stating that the action was in tune with the law. (Kalbe Ali, “Livid over office demolition, PTI predicts ‘system collapse’,” Dawn, 25 May 2024)
 
JUDICIARY
LHC Chief Justice denounces strike culture, denies wanting confrontation
On 24 May, Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Khan stated that the bench did not want confrontation with anyone and reiterated that it “took two hands to clap.” His remarks come in the wake of his confrontation with the lawyers, where latter called for strikes against the “unilateral” decision by him to shift courts from Lower Mall to Model Town. One of the lawyers’ protests had also turned violent due to clashes with the police leading to the former calling for a nationwide strike. The chief justice revealed that there were 1.4 million cases pending in the district judiciary attributed this to the “culture of strikes.” However, he also reiterated “90 per cent of the lawyers were professional” and agreed with him that strikes should end. According to the chief justice, the strike has adversely affected case filing as the courts have been shut for 73 days. He further asserted that respect was about give and take, stating that “If there is no respect for the courts, then do not expect it from us either. We would act according to the law and do nothing outside of it.”(Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “‘Judiciary does not want confrontation with anyone’,” Dawn, 25 May 2024)
 
SECURITY
All Makran Transport Union strike disrupts traffic along the coastal belt of Balochistan
On 25 May, The Express Tribune reported that a strike by the All Makran Transport Union which entered its third day on 24 May has severely impacted travel “along the coastal belt of Balochistan.” Passenger buses and trucks have been stopped at Gwadar leading to traffic disruptions across the three districts of Makran division – Panjgur, Kech and Gwadar. This has impacted not only local travelers but also patients traveling to Karachi and pilgrims at the Iran-Pakistan border. The transporters have been protesting against alleged “unnecessary” checking by security forces on two highways: the Coastal Highway and the RCD Highway. In response to these claims, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti had directed the provincial home minister to look into the allegations. (Syed Ali Shah “Makran travel disrupted by transport strike,” The Express Tribune, 25 May 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
CPEC-II to be launched in China next month
On 24 May, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to visit China in the first week of June for the official launching the second phase of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC-II). While the focus on the first phase was on infrastructure and energy projects, CPEC-II will focus on agriculture, the Main Line-I of Pakistan Railways, businessmen-to-businessmen deals and realignment of Karakorum Highway (KKH), among others. The prime minister while addressing a meeting of representatives of the Chinese companies expressed intent to benefit from China’s experience to boost Pakistan’s IT sector and exports. Describing the partnership between both countries he stated, “China has an important role in Pakistan’s development. It has always helped Pakistan in difficult times for which the entire nation, including me, is grateful to the Chinese leadership and the people.” Further, he provided security guarantees for the Chinese people and businesses in Pakistan reiterating that “The government has taken all possible measures to ensure foolproof security of the Chinese citizens in Pakistan.” He called for investment Chinese investment in various sectors emphasizing the electric and hybrid auto sector. He also expressed an interest in learning from the modern technology employed by China in agriculture highlighting Pakistan’s agriculture dependent economy. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM to visit China in June to join formal launch of CPEC-II,” Dawn, 25 May 2024)
 
Foreign Office rejects fresh Indian Supreme Court order on Jammu and Kashmir
On 24 May, in a weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch “rejected” a new order of the Supreme Court of India which has “upheld” its earlier judgment that had accepted the Modi government’s move to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370 of the Constitution. In this regard, she stated “We reject the fresh order of the Indian Supreme Court just as we had rejected the earlier order of 11 December, 2023. Two verdicts fail to recognize the internationally recognized disputed nature of Jammu and Kashmir... Indian Supreme Court judgments cannot distract the international community’s attention from the gross and systemic human rights violation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” She reiterated that “Kashmiris” had the right to self-determination and termed the Modi government’s move “unilateral” as it did not take into account “the will of parties in the dispute — Kashmiris and Pakistan.” Separately, she also “welcomed” the decision by Ireland, Spain and Norway to recognize the state of Palestine and termed the announcement a “milestone” in the Palestinian people’s fight for right to self-determination.  (“FO rejects Indian SC order on held Kashmir,” Dawn, 25 May 2024)

PROVINCES
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Provincial government announces PKR 1.7 trillion budget for upcoming fiscal year
On 24 May, the PTI-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government presented its first budget for the upcoming fiscal year (FY25) amounting to PKR 1.7 trillion. This is an unprecedented move as it is rare for a provincial government to unveil its budget before the federal government presents its financial plan. This move has irked the Centre with Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervez Malik terming the move “irresponsible” and blaming the PTI of “bringing the country to the brink of bankruptcy.” The projected expenditure in the budget of PKR 1.65 trillion is 21 per cent higher than the current fiscal which amounted to PKR 1.3 trillion. PKR 416 billion has been earmarked for development “mainly focusing on social protection, law and order and economic development.” PKR 29 billion has been allocated for wheat subsidy, PKR 28 billion for the flagship Sehat Card Plus programme, and PKR 12 billion for three youth employment programmes. A ten per cent hike has been announced with respect to salary and pension for government employees and pensioners. Further, an increase in the minimum wage from PKR 32,000 to PKR 36,000 per month has also been announced. (Manzoor Ali, “KP budget 2024-25: KP draws Centre’s ire by pre-empting federal budget,” Dawn, 25 May 2024 & “KP govt to unveil its first Rs1.6tr budget today,” Dawn, 24 May 2024)
 
Sindh: Temperature crosses 51 degree Celsius mark, heatwave like condition to continue
On 25 May, temperatures in Sindh crossed the 51 degree Celsius mark. According to the Meteriological Department, the maximum recorded temperature was 51 degree Celsius in Mohenjo Daro, followed by Jacobabad and Khairpur, each recording 50 degree Celsius. Karachi recorded a temperature of 36.7°C with 55 per cent humidity and hot weather conditions are likely to continue in the city. The Med Dept daily advisory has predicted “very hot” weather in almost most parts of Sindh for the next 24 hours. Further, in the upper districts of Sindh, temperatures are likely to remain “six to eight degree centigrade above normal.” In the coastal areas of the province, “humid conditions” are likely to prevail. (“Temperature crosses 51°C in Sindh as heatwave continues,” Dawn, 25 May 2024)

Mirza Moiz Baig, ‘Democratic breakdown’
Dawn, 25 May 2024
“Section 8 of the Act establishes tribunals which may comprise non-judicial members appointed by the executive in consultation with the Lahore High Court chief justice. The tenure of such members shall be renewable every 18 months, subject to their performance being satisfactory. Section 8(6) delineates three-pronged criteria to gauge a member’s performance, with 50 per cent marks reserved for adhering to statutory timelines, and 25pc each for competence and integrity. By placing adherence to statutory timelines on a higher pedestal than competence and integrity, the Act allows a member to pass muster even where his judgements are egregiously unlawful or motivated by extraneous factors.”
 
Danyal Adam Khan, ‘Unglamorous dreams’
Dawn, 25 May 2024
“Even a political demand for establishing LGs has yet to gain public traction. For one, tensions in the national and provincial arenas are already so electrifying that they consistently hold the country’s imagination captive. In such instability, it is difficult to get attention spans to rest on seemingly boring matters of local governance. Secondly, public expectations from representatives are entirely warped, wherein we look towards national-level legislators to perform tasks that are categorically the domain of LGs. Thirdly, LGs are too small, scattered, and fractured of a polity to lobby for their own collective rights.”
 
Dr Miftah Ismail, ‘Myopic policies, distorted prices’
The News International, 25 May 2024
“Microeconomics studies show how individuals choose to allocate various scarce resources. Another name for microeconomics is price theory, which tells us that prices play a vital role in efficiently allocating resources. I start with this to emphasize that one important reason we are economically backward is because our government usually sets the wrong prices of things that it sells, distributes or influences -- and thus causes inefficiency and misallocation of resources in the economy. In fact, almost all shortages (or excess capacity) of, say, gas and electricity, wheat and sugar, or cotton and sugarcane can be understood as a misallocation of resources due to wrong prices. Prices that are set due to political consideration and not based on sound economic principles.”
 
Editorial, ‘More pledges’
Dawn, 25 May 2024
“The pledges from our friends in the Gulf are reassuring, but the multibillion-dollar question is: when will they materialise? Perhaps the Saudis and Emiratis are waiting for the IMF to green-light the next loan to Pakistan before releasing their own funds. Though the IMF loan has yet to be approved, Fund officials have described discussions with the government as “fruitful”, saying that “significant progress” has been made towards a staff-level agreement. Hopefully, once the loan is approved in the near future, the investment agreements signed with Gulf partners will start taking firmer shape.”

Editorial, ‘The misogyny toll’
The News International, 25 May 2024
“That people in the 21st Century can still demand money from a woman’s parents for marriage as though they are doing them some kind of favour by taking their daughter off their hands is reflective of the fact that many Pakistani women are still seen as less worthy than men and are second-class citizens when it comes to the protection of their rights. While stricter laws against dowry might have some impact, it is unlikely that they will eradicate the practice. The experience of neighbouring India, where dowry-related deaths and abuse are still a problem, can attest to this. What is needed is a cultural transformation that ends with women being viewed as just as valuable, capable and worthy of jobs, property and education as men.”

Aasim Sajjad Akhtar, ‘Hot capital’
Dawn, 24 May 2024
“Then again, hope should not be the only fall-back plan. It is not as if global warming is an unknown phenomenon, or that most people are unfamiliar with the lexicon of climate change. There are many, in fact, who whip out terms such as ‘mitigation’, ‘adaptation’ and ‘resilient development’ at will. And ‘experts’ are said to be working in tandem with donors, governments and businesses to usher us towards a ‘just transition’ away from fossil fuels. Pakistan’s quota of experts has increased markedly since the 2022 floods. They gather increasingly regularly at conferences on climate change, both at home and abroad. Consultants are hired and reports written. But virtually nothing changes.”
 
Tahir Mehdi, ‘Making hay of wheat’
Dawn, 24 May 2024
“Farming families fight against many odds to secure these two top food items; among these odds is the most taxing, unforgiving and unpredictable one — the market. Over the last century, our agriculture has transformed from family need-driven subsistence farming to market-oriented commodity production. The relationship with the market, however, has not evolved into a stable, trustworthy bond. Farmers thus vacillate between market logic and a subsistence mindset, while making cropping decisions. Growing wheat exemplifies this.”
 
Abdul Sattar, ‘Why is Nawaz Sharif upset?’
The News International, 24 May 2024
“Many analysts believe that Sharif was kicked out from the power corridors of Islamabad for allegedly picking a fight with the powers that be, but his unceremonious departure was never vehemently protested. On the contrary, it was celebrated by his detractors who accused him of corruption and poor governance. Many might justify these complaints arguing that Pakistani people tend to buy the propaganda of ‘invisible powers’ who not only control the media but have always dominated the mainstream narrative. They are the ones manufacturing a lethal propaganda against politicians branding them corrupt, incompetent and illiterate.”
 
Editorial, ‘App for GBV survivors’
Dawn, 24 May 2024
“But the high volume of incidents — over 63,000 reported GBV cases in the past three years — reflects that the app will struggle to succeed if it functions in isolation. As all provinces are equipped with laws for domestic violence, far-reaching structural reforms, which focus on a societal shift through comprehensive training, sensitisation, recruitment of female police, and resources for law enforcement and officers of the court, are essential. Moreover, awareness drives must evolve so that people can challenge customs.”
  
Editorial, ‘Toxic violence’
The News International, 24 May 2024
“Around the world, political differences are voiced through words. When these differences turn personal and violent, there is something really wrong with the political arena. It is important for the government to bring the political temperature down. Fingers will be pointed at each other but it is time for political parties to put a stop to this culture of hate, intolerance and toxic polarization. Pakistan needs breathing space and healing. The PTI should also consider taking a step in the right direction – parliament and talks with its political opponents. Peaceful protests are a democratic right but we have seen how quickly these protests can turn violent. Everyone needs to take a step back and calm down. Let political differences be resolved through political dialogue.”

Shahzad Sharjeel, ‘In hot & sour soup’
Dawn, 23 May 2024
“On June 24, 2007, the Lal Masjid brigade attacked a Chinese massage parlour in the heart of Islamabad and bundled off seven Chinese nationals to the mosque complex. Tomes have been written in favour and against the ensuing military operation. There is never a single reason that dictates policy decisions in such matters. However, one of them could have been the packets of calcium tablets sent by concerned Chinese citizens to its foreign ministry. Among its interpretations was that this was a test of the Communist Party’s backbone in the face of threats to its citizens abroad.”
 
F.S. Aijazuddin, ‘Deniable truths’
Dawn, 23 May 2024
“Fallaci, a consummate professional, taped every interview. Often though, these precautions were not enough. The tapes of her sessions with Israeli leader Golda Meir mysteriously disappeared from a locked hotel room in Rome. Col Qadhafi’s detailed mention of their contents made Fallaci suspect him of masterminding the theft. She transcribed her notes faithfully but found that some of her interviewees like Gen Giap wanted her to print only their version. She humoured Giap, and then printed her own report with it. (Her interview with Giap so impressed Dr Kissinger, he agreed to be interviewed by her.) Others regretted their remarks afterwards and demanded that their indiscretions should be excised. Dr Kissinger did not share her humour when she quoted his admission that he saw himself as “an amazing, romantic character [,] the cowboy who rides alone into the town with his horse”.”
 
I Hussain, ‘Against the tide’
The News International, 23 May 2024
“Corruption seems woven into the nation’s political fabric, evidenced by rumors of a costly and unnecessary wheat deal that sapped $1 billion from Pakistan’s already scanty foreign currency reserves. This mismanagement has impacted Punjab’s farmers, who face reluctance from local procurement centers to buy their wheat due to lack of funds and storage facilities, pushing some to consider burning their unsold harvest. The alleged financial bungling leads to questions about the utility of caretaker governments. They add on layers of cost to the exchequer without delivering significant policy changes, and often exacerbate issues, as seen in the wheat import fiasco. A constitutional review of the necessity of caretaker governments may be warranted.”
 
Editorial, ‘Energy inflation’
Dawn, 23 May 2024
“Energy inflation has been a major cause of the surging cost of living over the last couple of years. Even though headline inflation came down to just above 17pc last month from its peak of over 38pc last May, the planned hike in energy rates could again push up prices during FY25. With the government trying to secure yet another loan from the IMF to preserve the country’s new-found economic ‘stability’ and improve its credit rating, the authorities have also shared with the Fund their plans to raise gas prices from August and the base electricity tariff from July. In addition, the government would be required to increase taxes to boost its revenues by 1.5pc of GDP. These measures will again drive up inflation, burdening the people with even more costs. The household budgets of the majority, especially those in the low- to moderate-income bracket, are already stretched thin; further erosion in their purchasing power and reductions in real wages will thrust them far beyond breaking point.”
 
Editorial, ‘Flooding threats’
Dawn, 23 May 2024
“In the long term, a comprehensive disaster management strategy is essential. The Scaling-up Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF-II) in Northern Pakistan project by UNDP and the Green Climate Fund is a laudable initiative. It includes constructing protective infrastructure, slope stabilisation measures, and early warning systems. However, more is needed. As has been described in these pages, continued investment in infrastructure is crucial. Building flood barriers, improving drainage systems, and regularly monitoring glacial lakes with satellite technology can mitigate the impact of GLOFs. Pakistan should collaborate with international climate bodies for technical expertise. Sustained community involvement is equally vital. Local groups and leaders must foster awareness and preparedness through campaigns, drills, and forming disaster risk reduction committees. Establishing emergency response teams within villages can ensure swift action. By fostering a culture of preparedness, we can protect lives from the mounting threats posed by climate change.”

Naveen Hussain, ‘Preparing for crises’
Dawn, 22 May 2024
“A Karachiite of my acquaintance owns a small farm which has previously been used for weekends in the country. He fears that with rising inequality and hunger, civil unrest will increase. And if the US initiates another regional war, Pakistan may get dragged in again. He is preparing to move to his farm to become a full-time homesteader. He believes that this will be the safest place to ride out any coming storm. Homesteading is an off-grid, self-reliant lifestyle. His farm is well stocked with fruit and vegetables, and he rears a few chickens and other animals. Solar panels provide electricity, and he has a water bore for clean drinking water. This is classic homesteading. All that’s needed is to store non-perishable foods and pickle and preserve surplus fresh foods.”
 
Rafia Zakaria, ‘Warrants for war criminals’
Dawn, 22 May 2024
“Unsurprisingly, Khan’s statement was met with criticism from all sides. Hamas leaders accused him of equating the victims of the war with the perpetrators. Israel’s deputy attorney general in turn denounced the action, calling it completely “divorced from facts” and accused it of making a “mockery of the heinous charge of genocide”. The request for warrants is now with the judges of the ICC, who will evaluate whether the evidence submitted by Karim Khan is adequate for the warrants to be issued. If they decide that there is adequate evidence submitted in support of the arrest warrants, these will then be issued. Once issued, the warrants can be enforced in any one of the 124 countries that are signatories to the treaty that created the ICC, which is “the world’s only permanent international court with a mandate to investigate and prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes”.”
 
Farhan Bokhari, ‘Cost of reversal’
The News International, 22 May 2024
“In brief, Pakistan’s way forward will just not lead towards greater stability surrounding the economy, irrespective of the costs enforced on consumers – including solarized ones. In recent years, Pakistan’s electricity consumers were encouraged to adopt solar generation as a way to increase power generation, using a natural source with no fuel cost involved. The practice has clearly become popular with a variety of consumers, from the high end urban ones to rural dwellers. The idea of ‘net metering’ as repeatedly mentioned encouraged consumers to sell the power they generated to the national grid, while getting billed for any power consumed on top of what was sold. In many instances, consumers who ran surpluses were given an electricity credit for future use.”

Editorial, ‘Bulldozed bill’
Dawn, 22 May 2024
“In a demonstration held after the Monday session of the Punjab Assembly, the Lahore Press Club president recalled that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had joined the protests when the PTI had been attempting to strengthen Peca to make it more effective in suppressing public criticism. But here she was now, going ahead with equally condemnable legislation “aimed at gagging the media”. Was her earlier position based merely on political expediency? Has her party considered what the consequences of such a law would be in case it once again runs afoul of the powers that be? The last time this happened, its leadership was still able to vent its frustration and publicly name those whom it held responsible. The ability to do so kept it alive politically. The next time it happens, the party and its leaders would be condemned to suffer in silence thanks to the law they have just passed.”
 
Editorial, ‘A plan against plans’
The News International, 22 May 2024
“All that transpired in 2014 was not really just about individuals. It ended up destroying the roots of democracy in Pakistan. After the Musharraf era, both the PPP and the PML-N tried to establish a new democratic order envisioned in the Charter of Democracy (CoD). It did not mean that they didn’t do politics against each other – they did, from the PPP imposing Governor rule in Punjab to Nawaz’s long march for the restoration of judiciary to his role in the Memogate case, both parties opposed each other politically. The one thing they did not do was hatch conspiracies against each by using interventionist institutions to oust each other’s governments. The other thing they did do was form a consensus on provincial autonomy and other such issues – the 18th Amendment and NFC Award were two examples of what political parties could achieve if parliament worked together for the betterment of the people. Politicians were taking back the space that was ceded in the Musharraf era. The media and judiciary also grabbed some space for themselves.”

Arifa Noor, ‘Budgeting without people’
Dawn, 21 May 2024
“Indeed, other than having a finance minister who says the IMF is unavoidable, little else has changed. The constants in terms of our ‘solutions’ have been around well after 2018. We continue to look for manna to drop from the heavens to bail us out. This manna, for as long as I can remember, continues to be an injection of foreign funds. If earlier it was in the shape of foreign aid and development for the troublesome part of the world we are located in, during the PTI’s times, it was going to be a sudden and miraculous increase in ‘exports’ once Ishaq Dar’s exchange rate policy had been consigned to the dustbin. But a couple of years of a punishing deterioration in the value of the currency and it dawned on many that exports couldn’t provide the miraculous solution. Then came the latest eureka moment — Pakistan needed foreign direct investment (FDI).”
 
Ajaz Ahmed, ‘Climate resilience’
Dawn, 21 May 2024
“Since Pakistan has yet to invest in decarbonisation to achieve Nationally Determined Contributions targets etc, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure could be a win-win situation. It would allow the economy to decarbonise and also develop resilience to climate shocks. Making infrastructure resilient to climate shock would mean a marginal increase in the total investment cost. But, not only would these be recouped soon, the extra effort will increase the lifetime of an asset. Nevertheless, investments in climate-resilient and low-carbon infrastructure need a fundamental transformation of critical infrastructure systems, which should be reflected in the projects’ planning, design, and delivery. A crucial element is to incorporate this aspect into the public procurement process, while considering different proposals.”
 
Myrah Nerine Butt, ‘The value of domestic work’
The News International, 21 May 2024
“The compensation is also gendered; we are willing to pay men more for the same work than women, often citing reasons like they are the primary breadwinners or perform better quality of work or have stronger work ethic. There is no recognition that a man’s uninterrupted work ethic may rest on the labour of a woman taking care of his family back home. Women’s income is seen as supplementary to support household expenses without the recognition that they may still be the primary breadwinners or be running single-family households. There is also little to no recognition that this work requires a certain level of skill. There is little additional compensation for a more skilled or experienced worker.”
 
Imtiaz Gul, ‘Pak-US CT partnership: are we missing the point?’
The Express Tribune, 20 May 2024
“Curiously, the joint statement does not mention those Baloch groups that regularly claim responsibility for terrorist attacks. Nor does it allude either to Jaish al-Adl, which Iran considers a direct threat to its integrity, or the Chinese-centred ETIM, also called Turkestan Islamic Party, TIP. Secondly, we don’t find the word ‘Afghanistan’ in the joint statement, although everybody knows where the TTP, Jaish al-Adl, TIP, ISKP as well as the Baloch groups enjoy safe havens.”
 
Editorial, ‘Reproductive health’
Dawn, 21 May 2024
“These appalling numbers outline the drastic impact patriarchy and prejudice have had on women’s progress by hindering the right to contraceptives, safe birth facilities, maternity care and necessary sexual and reproductive health services. Experts believe that girls and women will be a wasted opportunity for Pakistan’s fiscal health and social framework. The exclusion of sexual and reproductive health from political agendas and educational curricula is seen as a primary reason for this, alongside censorship of sexual health knowledge in a conservative culture. For matters to improve, the media should play a constructive part in birth control programmes and disseminate information regarding family planning and choice.”
 
Editorial, ‘Problematic frontiers’
The Express Tribune, 20 May 2024   
“The unrest in Kurram district of K-P is a case in point, where tribal clans across the Kharlachi border crossing were in a gunfight. Same is the case even inside ex-FATA agencies where locals and foreign elements, who have made Pakistan their new home, are often at odds. The attack on security forces in North Waziristan and the revulsion in Chitral and elsewhere in the frontier-province underscores the element of human contraction in perceptual horizons. This is where opting for a militaristic solution is ill-advised, and the solution should be carved out in a conventional negotiated manner.”
 
Editorial, ‘Bishkek violence’
The News International, 21 May 2024
“The Bishkek incident is a sign of the growing racism and xenophobia in Central Asian states where local residents see foreign students as a threat. These feelings of animosity rise because the new immigrants compete with the locals for jobs and other resources. On the government level though, international students are a vital cog for running the economy. These complexities are not in a government’s hands. But what Pakistan can do is to provide consultancy and counselling services to students to teach them how they can prepare themselves for any untoward incident.”

Maleeha Lodhi and Ahmad Junaid, ‘Beyond the economic crisis’
Dawn, 20 May 2024
“To be sure the IMF’s bailout package and rollover of foreign loans helped to avert a breakdown. The government is now in discussions with the Fund for a larger, longer-duration loan deal, which will be the country’s 24th IMF programme. But meeting IMF conditionalities cannot be the be-all and end-all of economic policy. An IMF package is necessary but not sufficient to achieve durable stabilisation and chart a path to resilient economic growth. A Fund programme should be one component of the country’s own long-term plan and strategy. It cannot serve as its substitute.”
 
Abdullah Khalid, ‘Serving digitally’
Dawn, 20 May 2024
“The true impact of digital transformation in Pakistan hinges on its implementation at the grassroots level by local governments. While digitalising local governance can revolutionise service delivery, citizen engagement and governance through improved transparency and accountability, local bodies often lack the resources and technology to serve effectively. Digitalisation, supported by necessary legislative and financial empowerment, can modernise services, facilitate citizen feedback and promote accountability, ensuring that every community benefits equally from digital advancements through superior access and digital literacy.”
 
Faateh Nasir, ‘Cutting through the red tape’
The News International, 20 May 2024
“It appears that the winds of change are upon us, as the arrival of this ‘investment’ will ease the task of our Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, as he negotiates a structural bailout programme with our patrons in the West. The $5 billion deposit by the Saudi government, would not only serve to re-assure the IMF regarding Pakistan’s active network of friends, but also signals tacit support from the White House. As per US diplomat Donald Lu’s testimonial wish to see Pakistan as a “country that’s peaceful, democratic, and prosperous”, it is quite clear where Washington currently stands. The present government has seemingly restored the status quo, between the traditional benefactors in the US and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
 
 Imtiaz Gul, ‘Pak-US CT partnership: are we missing the point?’
The Express Tribune, 19 May 2024
“The killing of five Chinese engineers — working at Dasu dam — near Bisham in March also belongs to the endless string of the perpetual terrorist violence, not only claimed by TTP but also Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and similar Baloch groups. These are just a few glimpses of the litany of proxy terrorism that has been rocking Pakistan for years. It intensified after the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021 and rose to alarming levels after the TTP unilaterally revoked the temporary ceasefire in November 2022.”
 
Editorial, ‘Wheat price crash’
Dawn, 20 May 2024
“Punjab’s farmers are going through difficult times, exacerbated by policy failure and the import of over 3.4m tons of wheat shortly before the bumper harvest on the direction of the caretaker government. The imports had facilitated traders to make quick bucks at the cost of both farmers and urban consumers who paid higher prices for low-quality imported wheat. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was quick to set up a probe committee to pin responsibility for the decision to import at a time when the country had adequate stocks from the last harvest and authorities were expecting a record wheat output on the back of a significant increase in the area under cultivation.”
 
Editorial, ‘Violence in Bishkek’
The Express Tribune, 19 May 2024   
“Pakistan’s Foreign Office, after setting up necessary liaison with authorities in Bishkek, have called upon the students to remain indoors till the volatility subsides. But media postings from the students indicate a state of exigency, and they are in need of immediate security. Same is the case with other foreign students, as the situation is fluid and there is no real-time information on what is going on. Video clips emanating from the restive campuses are full of brutality, and it seems the locals are on a warpath. Apparently, it is a free-for-all as a case of mistaken identity.”
 
Editorial, ‘A second chance’
The News International, 20 May 2024
“Several surveys and news programmes carried out by private outlets show that many children have to face false charges. A child involved in a road accident, for example, is charged with terrorism. Or a child involved in mobile snatching is implicated in a drug case. For children from low-income families, these complexities make matters worse. Their financial constraints mean they remain stuck behind bars for a long time. Children need to be disciplined, but they should also be given a chance to improve themselves and that can only be done when children have access to a team of trained people who can help them rehabilitate and become highly productive citizens of the country.”

Muhammad Memon, ‘Elevating pedagogy’
Dawn, 18 May 2024
“Teaching is a noble profession. While educators impart knowledge and prepare students for exams, they also inspire and groom young minds for practical life. Many senior and devoted teachers are trusted as policy partners. The profession, however, demands that practitioners gather knowledge and skills and adopt modern methods to have a lasting impact. This profession, despite being highly valued across the world, has been denied the respect it deserves in Pakistan. Moreover, as compared to medical, engineering, legal and other occupations, teaching is considered a low-wage profession. However, times are changing as, in the past few years, teachers’ salaries and benefits have increased substantially. Hence, it is time that the hackneyed perception prevalent in society changed so that more people become inclined to join this fine force.”

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, ‘Saga of reserved seats’
Dawn, 18 May 2024
“On May  6, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court suspended the order of the Peshawar High Court which had denied 77 reserved seats to the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and distributed the seats to other political parties in the assemblies instead. The order of the Supreme Court bench resulted in the immediate evaporation of the ruling coalition’s two-thirds majority — at least for the time being. The simple majority of the present dispensation at the federal and provincial levels is, however, not threatened even if the final order of the SC allocates the disputed seats to the SIC. The question of allocation or otherwise of the reserved seats to the SIC in the assemblies is a very important one which has been raised for the first time and will almost certainly require interpretation of the Constitution and Elections Act, 2017.”

Editorial, ‘Ominous demands’
Dawn, 18 May 2024
 “The cash-strapped government opened talks with the IMF this week in search of a larger and longer bailout. Nobody expects ongoing engagement with the IMF to be easy, even if the discussions are anticipated to go smoother than before. However, the reports about the demands being made by the Fund and alternative proposals being put forward by the authorities sound quite ominous for the average Pakistani household and salaried classes. A report in this newspaper, for example, says the government is considering a “move to introduce ‘carbon tax’ on petroleum and similar products”. The new levy will be in addition to the petroleum levy of Rs60 per litre on fuel. The report quotes anonymous sources trumpeting the proposed carbon levy as a means to access global green finance, and cheaper loans and grants from multilateral institutions.”