Day 17 Pakistanâ€™s Political Crisis: PR Daily Updates

Daily Briefs

Photo : Dawn

27 May 2023, Saturday I Vol 4, No.105

Day 17 Pakistanâ€™s Political Crisis: PR Daily Updates

Peshawar ATC grants bail to 85 suspects and Peshawar ATC grants bail to 85 suspects

PR Daily Brief | PR Team

Taffy Tonia

This is a new section looking at the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan, starting with the arrest of Imran Khan, subsequent violence on 9 May by PTI cadres targeting the Establishment, relief to Imran by the judiciary, response by the government and the Establishment, and the exodus within the PTI. This section provides a daily brief on the political crisis.

On 27 May, following consecutive resignations of PTI members, MPA Qasim Khan Khattak mentioned that along with him Farkhad Khattak , Karak Khalid Riaz Khattak, Haji Nawaz Ganderwal and president of PTI Karak women’s wing Kulsoom Khattak are quitting the PTI over the events of May 9. Qasim said: “Our sacrifices for the PTI are in front of everyone. Additionally, 12 PTI leaders from Punjab left the party over the 9 May riots, condemning violent attacks on military installations by protestors. Additionally, Senator Saifullah Khan Nyazee and singer Abrarul Haq quit PTI to focus on family and health.

On 27 May, former special assistant to the Punjab chief minister Firdous Ashiq Awan and Former Punjab education minister Murad Raas blamed Imran Khan's "advisors" in Lahore for bringing the party to where it is today. Firdous Ashiq Awan said: “My journey with PTI comes to an end today … God willing, our political journey will continue because the reason for our politics is the well-being of the people of our constituency.”

On 27 May, Imran Khan revoked the party membership of all defectors, and the PTI's lawyers wing, the Insaf Lawyers Forum (ILF), approached the Peshawar High Court for the formation of a joint investigation team (JIT) to probe the 9 May violence. He believes justice provides freedom to people by giving them rights. He blames corruption for the problems of overseas Pakistanis looking to invest in the country and he vowed to fight for freedom in Pakistan, claiming to have photos of police setting vehicles on fire on 9 May and that the country is heading towards hyperinflation. He said: “A party comes to an end when its vision comes to an end. The PDM parties are before you, they are helping the establishment, and the election commission and administration are with them so why are they scared of elections? … because their vote bank has finished.”

On 27 May, Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel is expected to hold a press conference to reveal details of PTI Chairman Imran Khan's medical reports. He claims Imran's mental stability is questionable. He said: “Being a narcissist, he is insistent on his lies and calls them the truth. This narcissist has been inciting people and diverting the youth to the wrong path.”

On 27 May,.PTI Chairman Imran Khan only wants negotiations with one institution. PTI leader Farrukh Habib has highlighted Pakistan's economic woes, banning Imran Khan and his party on the pretext of 9 May arson, and rejecting Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel's claims about Imran Khan.

Response From Government
On 27 May, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stated that his party will not resist any move to ban PTI "for promoting extremism and violence". CTD launches search for 9 May arsonists in Islamabad's slums. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah says facts of 9 May need to be placed before people. Prime Minister Sharif has stated innocent protesters will not be punished.

On 27 May, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended the government's decision to try civilians involved in the 9 May violent protests in military courts, calling the protests an act of rebellion. Eight people arrested in Mardan district for vandalising the statues of war heroes have moved the Peshawar High Court, challenging the inclusion of provisions of the Army Act, 1952 and the Official Secrets Act, 1923 in cases against them. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said the Army Act and the Official Secrets Act applies when a person trespasses on a building related to "defence".

On 27 May, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that "red lines" were crossed in a way that was never seen before in Pakistan's history. He said: “On May 9, not a single civilian installation was attacked. Across the world, there have been instances of attacks on civilian installations, but never has it happened that you attack and disrespect your martyrs’ memorials. This is unforgivable

On 27 May, A district court in Lahore issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for PTI President Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi due to his non-prosecution. Maryam Nawaz Sharif alleged that Imran removed COAS as DG ISI and brought Lt Gen Faiz Hamid to stay in power for ten years.

In Brief
POLITICS
Peshawar ATC grants bail to 85 suspects
On 26 May, Peshawar Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) issued an order to release 44 accused of attacking the Faqirabad police station due to a lack of evidence against them. Judge Dr Amir Nazir asked the petitioners to provide two surety bonds of PKR 1,00,000 each. Further, 80 suspects, who were accused of looting Peshawar’s Radio building and ECP regional office, were granted bail. Meanwhile, PTI leader Arbab Jehandad Khan argued filed a bail petition who has been convicted for ransacking the Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway toll plaza. Responding to that, Arbab claimed that he has been falsely accused. Additionally, two other PTI leaders, Qalandar Khan Lodhi and PTI leader Taimur Khalid, have been sent to jail on judicial remand. (“Bail granted to 85 held over violent protests in Peshawar,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Lahore special court orders to arrest Parvez Elahi
On 26 May, Gujranwala Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) filed a case against PTI president Chaudhry Parvez Elahi for embezzlement of development funds. Responding to the case, the Lahore Special Court released warrant orders to arrest Parvez Elahi. Previously, ACE failed to arrest Parvez during the raid. (“Funds embezzlement: Lahore court issues arrest warrants for Parvez,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Hussain accuses Imran Khan of bringing “trained terrorists”
On 26 May, Mian Iftikhar Hussian, Awami National Party (ANP) Secretary General, said that PTI has to take responsibility for the extremity and iterated that his party does not encourage banning the party. Hussain accused Imran Khan of bringing 40,000 “trained terrorists” which led to the current state of unstableness. He added: “ PTI remained a supporter of terrorism.” Further, he said that ANP and its followers were against terrorism. (Saleem Shahid, “ANP opposes party ban, holds PTI accountable for the crisis,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Interior Minister declares the trial of 33 suspects in military court
On 26 May, following the decision made by National Security Committee, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah announced that 19 suspects from Punjab and 14 from KP have been produced in military court for the trial. Responding to the PTI's condemnation of the decision, Shehbaz said that only those who were accused of vandalising military installations are tried under military laws and the rest are tried under anti-terrorism laws. Rana added that the military officials examine what act (the Army Act or the Official Secrets Act) applies to the suspects. Further, he said that 80 per cent of the accused were released on bail. (“May 9 violence: Sanaullah says 33 suspects have been handed over to military for trial,” Dawn, 26 May 2023)

Rizawan Zia arrested for Jinnah House vandal
On 26 May, The Express Tribune reported that Rizwan Zia, the son-in-law of former IGP, was arrested for Jinnah House vandalisation. He was arrested when the geo-fencing location was exposed. According to The Express Tribune, this act depicts the assiduous nature of law enforcement agencies. (“Ex-IGP's son arrested in connection with attack on Jinnah House,” The Express Tribune, 26 May 2023)

PTI disintegrates in KP if Parvez quit, says Adil Shahzeb
On 27 May, Adil Shahzeb said that if Parvez Khattak quit PTI and join Jahangir Tareen, the PTI party may disintegrate and lose supporters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He added that the judiciary has to help Imran Khan. Additionally, Reporter Hassan Ayub Khan criticised the Judiciary's silence on audio leaks. (“ ‘If Parvez Khattak Leaves PTI, Party Over In KP’,” The Friday Times, 27 May 2023)

PIMS report says Imran Khan’s mental health is ‘questionable
On 26 May, Health Minister Qadir Patel reported that Imran Khan’s mental health was questionable as per the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) medical report. He said: “The report says that when we spoke to Imran for a considerable time, his actions were not that of a fit man.” Further, the report mentioned that there was no fracture in his leg. He alleged that Imran Khan was a “narcissist” and misguiding the youth. Accusing Imran as the destroyer of the culture of politeness, Qadir asked PTI: “Is there any social fabric that this party isn’t responsible of destroying?” (“Imran’s Mental Stability ‘Questionable’ As Per Medical Report: Qadir Patel,” The Friday Times, 26 May 2023)

EXTERNAL
The USAID-funded center promotes water and climate resilience in Pakistan
On 27 May, Dawn reported that the Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, established a center through a USD12 million cooperative agreement between USAID and MUET. The center focuses on climate change, water and food security, flood and drought forecasting, groundwater modeling, and other related areas. They have provided assistance during the floods of 2022, including preparing inundation maps, distributing water-saving filters, and providing potable water filtration kits. The center has also facilitated the research and studies of several women, such as Fiza Mansoor, Sadia Allahditta, and Tayyaba Sohail, who are pursuing higher education and conducting research in water resource management. The US Ambassador, Donald Blome, visited the center to discuss partnerships and support for clean energy and sustainable water management. The visit also included visits to power grid stations, wind power projects, cultural preservation projects, and initiatives supporting Afghan refugees and Pakistani communities. (Shazia Hasan, “US Ambassador Blome meets partners in ‘Green Alliance’ framework in Jamshoro,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Pakistani fishermen released by India return home with Edhi Foundation's assistance
On 26 May, The Express Tribune reported that a group of Pakistani fishermen, who were detained by Indian authorities for maritime violations, have been released and returned to Pakistan with the help of the Edhi Foundation. The fishermen, hailing from Punjab, Sindh, and Karachi, were held in Indian jails and were released after completing their sentences. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi played a crucial role in facilitating their return. The Edhi Foundation will transport the fishermen to their homes in Karachi, while the individuals undergo routine investigations before reuniting with their families. (Asif Mehmood, “20 Pakistanis released by India handed over to Edhi Foundation,” The Express Tribune, 26 May 2023)

ECONOMY
Pakistan secures USD 975 million for flood resilience and adaptation projects
On 27 May, Dawn reported that projects worth $975 million, including financing of USD 575 million from the Asian Development Bank and $400 million from the World Bank, have been finalized for implementation in Pakistan. The Integrated Flood Resilience and Adaptation Project (IFRAP) aims to provide housing reconstruction grants, and livelihood support to farmers, and restore essential services in flood-affected areas of Balochistan. Approximately 2.7 million people in calamity-declared districts will benefit from the project, enhancing early warning systems and strengthening institutional capacity. The International Partners Support Group (IPSG) meeting discussed the implementation status of foreign assistance pledges for climate resilience in Pakistan. (Khaleeq Kiani, “World Bank okays $213m for flood protection,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Shehbaz Sharif emphasizes robust entrepreneurship for Pakistan's export growth
On 27 May, Dawn reported that during a textile exhibition in Karachi, the Prime Minister of Pakistan highlighted the resilience and hard work of the country's entrepreneurs in building its export culture. He expressed confidence that with government support and the intellect of the entrepreneurs, Pakistan would ensure the provision of quality export goods to foreign customers. The Prime Minister commended the textile and leather industries for their contributions to promoting exports. He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting various export sectors and emphasized the importance of political stability for economic progress. (Imran Ayub, “PM seeks ideas to lift falling exports,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

PM Shehbaz forms committees to fine-tune budget proposals
On 27 May, The Express Tribune reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz has established seven committees to fine-tune the proposals put forth by the finance ministry for the next fiscal year's budget. One of the key committees, led by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, focuses on pro-poor expenditures. The committee aims to recommend measures for increased salaries, pensions, subsidies, and grants. The proposals may include redirecting subsidies to fertilizer plants for farmers and allocating more funds for electricity subsidies to lifeline consumers. The committees will submit their recommendations directly to the Prime Minister. (Shabhaz Rana, “PM rejects budgetary proposals,” The Express Tribune, 27 May 2023)

Ishaq Dar discusses economic relations with US Ambassador Donald Blome
On 27 May Business Recorder reported that Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar held a meeting with US Ambassador Donald Blome to discuss the deep-rooted bilateral relations between Pakistan and the United States, particularly in the areas of economy and trade. Dar shared the government's economic policies and priorities to address the challenging economic environment and promote stability and growth. Ambassador Blome expressed confidence in the government's programs for economic sustainability and pledged support for further enhancing bilateral economic, investment, and trade relations. The meeting also covered. (“Blome briefed about IMF’s ambivalence,” Business Recorder, 27 May 2023)

PROVINCE
Peshawar BRT operator raises concerns over unpaid dues
On 27 May, Dawn reported that the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operator Daewoo Pakistan and LMK-Resources Pakistan, responsible for the intelligent transport system and fare collection of Peshawar's BRT system, have raised concerns over the provincial government's failure to clear outstanding dues amounting to over Rs500 million. The companies claim that the funds are available with TransPeshawar, the government-owned company, but political interference and payment delays are hindering the resolution. The non-payment is causing a severe financial burden on the companies and may disrupt the transportation service, affecting the livelihood of thousands of people. (Mansoor Ali, “Peshawar BRT at risk of closure as operators denied Rs500m payments,” Dawn, 27 May 2023)

Pakistan on Twitter

“I want to thank the government for putting my name on the ECL as I have no plans to travel abroad, because I neither have any properties or businesses abroad nor even a bank account outside the country.If and when I do get an opportunity for a holiday, it will be in our northern mountains, my favourite place on earth.”
-Imran Khan

“See what changes this government has brought in people's lives. After the end of Tehreek-e-Insaf government and today's price comparison: 132% increase in the price of flour, rice 88%, chicken 72%, dal masoor 71%, milk 44%, sugar 37%. Such a disaster has not happened in the history of Pakistan. Maybe that's why you don't hear about inflation in the media these days.”
-Asad Umar

“The primary questions for Pakistan’s businesses & economy are: Where depreciation of rupee will stop? 310…and where discount rate will reach +21%….? Will these ever be reversed. What is plan B? A time has come to be realist, nationalist, non egoist & pro people. Save Pakistan.”
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi

Also read...

Faisal Siddiqi, People, sword, pen
Dawn, 27 May 2023
“The destiny of this nation lies in the balance between the people, the sword and the pen. As a first step towards such balance, three things are required: immediate free and fair elections, removal of the corrosive deadlock among Supreme Court judges and the removal of the insecurity of the military leadership of any future political reprisals.”

Dr. Norman Ahmed, Quetta’s challenge
Dawn, 27 May 2023
Quetta needs effective interventions to control and plan population densities, which would involve altering routes to facilitate movement, regulating commercial centres and providing open public spaces. Complex squatter settlements such as Kharotabad and Ghausabad are often seen as criminal hideouts. Devising a digital street-monitoring system at an expanded scale and strictly controlling exit-entry points can, among other measures, help lessen urban violence and reduce terrorism attempts. Elected and empowered local governments must also be revived in Quetta as elsewhere in the province.

Neda Mulji, Reading culture
Dawn, 27 May 2023
“Digital reading programmes make assessing and benchmarking easier so that no child falls through the cracks. Many of these programmes record reading achievement in the form of reward badges or certificates of completion, which motivate readers to continue the effort. With digital support, students learn to read and comprehend faster than ever before.”

Reema Omer, Justice, not vengeance
Dawn, 27 May 2023
“Victims and the people of Pakistan have the right to truth and justice in relation to the May 9 riots and the destruction of public and private property, but this is only possible after perpetrators are convicted after transparent, fair trials. Opaque, secret and unjust military trials of select accused may be used to extract vengeance, but there should be no doubt they have little to do with ensuring accountability or the rule of law.”

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Day 17 Pakistanâ€™s Political Crisis: PR Daily Updates

Peshawar ATC grants bail to 85 suspects and Peshawar ATC grants bail to 85 suspects

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