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PTI geTs ‘LIFe’ bACk As PHC susPenDs eCP’s verDICT on PArTy’s InTrA-PoLLs Wednesday, 27 December, 2023 I 13 Jamada Al-Sani, 1445

Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 178 I 8 Pages I Karachi Edition

BENCH SERVES NOTICES TO ALL g ECP HAD GIVEN VERDICT AS IF IT WAS AN ‘OPPONENT’ RESPONDENTS FOR JAN 9 OF PTI INSTEAD OF A JUST ARBITRATOR: ZAFAR

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PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

HE Peshawar High Court on Tuesday, while fixing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) intra-party election case for hearing, suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) verdict which declared PTI’s intra-party elections as ‘unlawful’ and stripped the party of its ‘bat’ electoral symbol.

A single-judge bench of the PHC, in its order, directed that notices be issued to all respondents for Jan 9 and suspended the ECP’s December 22 verdict.

The court also ordered the ECP to publish the PTI’s certificate on its website and restore the party’s election symbol “keeping in view the urgency, that a political party has been deprived of its symbol and subsequently will lead to confuse the public to their right to vote as per their choice”. On December 2, the ECP had nullified Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s intra-party elections, for the third time since last year, declaring the PTI ineligible for obtaining its traditional electoral symbol of ‘bat’.

In its verdict, the ECP said, “So keeping in view the clear mandate of Elections Act 2017 – it is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated 23rd November, 2023 and failed to hold intra-party election in accordance with PTI prevailing Constitution 2019 and Elections Act 2017, and Election Rules, 2017. Therefore, the certificate dated 4th December, 2023 and Form-65 filed by the alleged chairman, is hereby regretted and rejected accordingly”.

PTI had challenged the ECP verdict in Peshawar High Court.

PTI’s intraparty elections, in

which Barrister Gohar Khan was elected as chairman of the party, were

held on December 2.

The polls had drawn a sharp criticism

PTI hails PHC decision of restoring ‘bat’ symbol

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday lauded the Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) historic decision suspending the verdict of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) pertaining to the PTI electoral symbol “bat”, vowing that the people of the country would bring the most peaceful and unprecedented revolution in the history through their power of vote on February 8, 2024 by bringing PTI into power with thumbing majority.

Reacting to the PHC’s ruling nullifying electoral watchdog’s decision regarding “bat”, the spokesperson fro PTI said that the provincial court provided solid support to the supremacy of the constitution, rule of law, survival and continuity of democracy and people’s right to vote in the country through its significant decision, which would have far-reaching impacts on the political horizon of the country.

He termed the PHC’s decision as a victory for the peaceful constitutional, legal and political struggle of PTI in all respects. PTI spokesperson made it clear that since the inception till today, PTI always carried forward its struggle in the light

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has approached the Supreme Court (SC) seeking nullification of his conviction in the Toshakhana case and the trial court’s verdict.

Lawyers of the PTI’s top leader submitted the appeal against his Toshakhana conviction after rectifying the objections raised by the Supreme Court Registrar’s Office earlier. The SC Registrar’s Office returned Khan’s appeal on December 23, saying the documents attached to the appeal were incomplete and directing the petitioner to refile it with all the relevant papers on January 6.

The appeal was filed by Sardar Latif Khosa under Article 185 of the Constitution.

EX-PM’S CONVICTION, DISQUALIFICATION: The former

prime minister was sentenced to three years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs100,000 by Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Humayun Dilawar on August 5, 2023, after the judge found Khan guilty of graft in the case. Khan’s conviction in the case resulted in his disqualification from holding any public office for five years.

On Saturday, the ousted premier had petitioned the apex court against the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) order in the Toshakhana case as part of his efforts to overturn the conviction in the case to contest the general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.

However, the IHC had dismissed the PTI supremo’s plea seeking suspension of the trial court’s verdict.

In his plea filed in the IHC — the same court that had suspended his sentence — Khan had sought to nullify the conviction.

In the fresh petition, Khan appealed the IHC’s verdict to be stayed, stating that his sentence in the Toshakhana case had already been suspended.

He contended that he is being denied his fundamental right to contest elections due to the suspension of only his sentence instead of the entire order of conviction by the trial court, which bars him from running for office.

The IHC’s two-member bench had on December 21 turned down Khan’s request for the suspension of his conviction, which would have paved the way for his eligibility to stand in elections.

Under the rules governing Toshakhana — a Persian word meaning “treasure house” — government officials can keep gifts if they have a low worth, while they must pay a dramatically reduced fee to the government for extravagant items.

UN alarmed by ongoing Israeli Christmas strikes that kill scores in central Gaza GAZA

AGENCIES

Israel launched fresh air strikes against central Gaza on Tuesday, where the United Nations said it was alarmed by an intensification of Israeli attacks that had killed more than 100 Palestinians in one part of the enclave since Christmas Eve. The days around Christmas have seen an upsurge in the war, particularly in a central area just south of the seasonal waterway that bisects the Gaza Strip. Israeli troops told civilians to leave the area, though many say there is no safe place left to go. “We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza by Israeli forces, which has claimed more than 100 Palestinian lives since Christmas Eve,” said UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Seif Magango.

“Israeli forces must take all measures available to protect civilians. Warnings and evacuation orders do not absolve them of the full range of their international humanitarian law obligations.”

Israel is determined to pursue its goal of destroying Hamas despite global calls for a ceasefire in the 11week-old war, and new concerns the conflict could spread with US and Iran-aligned forces attacking each

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

of the vision and political philosophy of its founding chairman Imran Khan and within the purview and ambit of the constitution and law. He went on to say that PTI leaders and workers have been facing untold state oppression, fascism and the ongoing blind use of force to exclude PTI from the electoral race with great patience, dedication and steadfastness.

PTI spokesperson pointed out that despite the unimaginable series of brutality and the web of conspiracies; they continued their struggle peacefully within the framework of the constitution, law and democratic manners.

He reiterated that the PTI and its leaders and workers would strive peacefully for restoration of true justice system in the country despite all undue bias of the state institutions, the hateful and illegal tactics of the government machinery and the ongoing efforts to crush the largest representative political party of the people in the country. PTI spokesperson stated that they would fulfil the duty of protecting the sovereignty of the people, sanctity of the vote and the protection of democracy without being a victim to any incitement and provocation. STAFF REPORT

Imran knocks at SC’s door against Toshakhana conviction once again STAFF REPORT

as estranged PTI founding member Akbar S. Babar announced that he would challenge the entire process. He had alleged that the PTI had carried out a selection process aimed at throwing out party workers to give the reins to a few lawyers.

Earlier on Monday, the PTI filed a petition in the PHC against the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision invalidating its internal elections and consequently barring the party from getting the ‘bat’ as electoral symbol.

PTI’s legal team, comprising Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar and Shah Faisal Atmankhel, filed the petition against the Election Commission’s decision.

The PTI has prayed to the court, through the petition, that the ECP’s decision should be declared null and void.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

other elsewhere in the region.

Since Hamas killed 1,200 people and captured 240 hostages on Oct. 7 in the deadliest day in Israeli history, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded with an all-out assault that has laid much of Hamas-ruled Gaza to waste. Palestinian health authorities said nearly 21,000 people have been confirmed killed in Israeli strikes, with thousands more feared buried under rubble. Nearly all of the enclave’s 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes, many several times.

Israel says it is doing what it can to protect civilians, and blames Hamas for putting them in harm’s way by operating among them, which Hamas denies. But even Israel’s closest ally the United States has said it should do more to reduce civilian deaths from what President Joe Biden has called “indiscriminate bombing”.

‘The rest were martyred’ Since a truce collapsed at the start of December, Israel has extended its ground campaign from the northern half of Gaza to encompass the entire enclave.

In recent days, fighting in the north has remained as intense as ever, even as southern and central areas now holding hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians have become war zones.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

Audio Leak Case: Defence Ministry submits reply in IHC, suggesting probe through FIA ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Ministry of Defence on Tuesday submitted its one-page reply in the audio leaks case to the Islamabad High Court (IHC).

The case involves former first lady Bushra Bibi, and Najam Saqib, son of former chief justice (CJP) Saqib Nisar. The hearing was presided over by Justice Babar Sattar of the IHC. In its reply, the ministry disclosed the availability of affordable tools for recording audio from smartphones and emphasised the potential manipulation of voice content using artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

Additionally, it highlighted the role of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Wing under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PICA), 2016, and requested the court to direct the cybercrime wing to further investigate the matter. The response also expressed concerns about callers recording calls themselves or any potential phone hacks.

The court then adjourned the hearing of the case till February 19, 2024.

During the last hearing, the attorney general of Pakistan (AGP) informed the IHC that the government had not granted permission for audio tapping to any institution or spy agency. AGP Mansoor Usman Awan further told the IHC that any government agency conducting such recordings was doing so “unlawfully”, as he submitted a report to the court on behalf of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

02

COMMERCE MINISTER RELEASES EARLY TRADE FIGURES, TO SHOW PERFORMANCE NEWS

33.1% growth in trade in first twenty days of December on YoY year basis

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Wednesday, 27 December, 2023 | KARACHI

ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbaS

ARETAKER Federal Minister of Commerce and Industry, Gohar Ijaz, released trade figures of the first 20 days of this month.

Through a statement issued on Tuesday, the minister celebrated what he claimed to be a 33.1 % year on year growth in the past 20 days of December. ”The Ministry of Commerce is pleased to announce significant achievements in Pakistan’s trade sector, ” said Minister of Commerce Dr. Gohar Ejaz adding that the positive trade figures and upwards trend showcases Pakistan’s resilience.

However a controversy ensued over the ministry’s choice of time period for which the data was released. It is believed that the caretaker minister used a cross-sectional data point to show his performance.

According to an official, there was no need to officially release a 20-day trade figure to show performance. The foreign trade performance is usually evaluated monthly, quarterly, half yearly or annually in Pakistan.

Even though the trade figures are accurate, the release of it 10 days before completing the month is surprising.

According to sources, this was the first time that the Ministry released a figure of 20 days.

As per the figures shared by the Ministry of Commerce Exports Surged during the period under question. Pakistan experienced a remarkable year-on-year increase in exports, totaling $479 million in the first 20 days of December 2023, marking a 33.1% growth.

Conversely, imports during the same period decreased by $405 million, indicating a -12.8% reduction and

contributing to an $884 million improvement in the balance of trade for December 2023.

From July 1, 2023, to December 20, 2023, Pakistan’s exports soared to $14 billion, reflecting a notable year-on-year increase of $709 million (5.3%).

Meanwhile, imports dropped from $29.2 billion to $24.3 billion, indicating a $4.9 billion year-on-year decrease and a resulting $5.6 billion improvement in the balance of trade.

Agricultural and food exports witnessed an extraordinary 109.2% year-on-year increase, totaling $574.6 million, while the textile, manufacturing, and engineering sectors showed a commendable 15% increase in exports during the same period.

Key export destinations, including Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, Madagascar, and China, saw substantial growth in Pakistan’s exports.

IPO, PITB collaborate to digitise IPO-Pakistan ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbaS

The Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) and the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) forged an alliance on Tuesday by signing an agreement aimed at digitising and automating IPO-Pakistan.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Director General of IPO, Ms. Shazia Adnan, and Director General of PITB, Saima R. Shaikh here to foster automation and digitalization within IPO. As per details, this collaborative effort seeks to benefit the general populace and businesses across the country.

During the event, Chairman IPO, Farukh Amil, emphasised the significance of increased visibility across multiple platforms and heightened public awareness, which are key priorities for IPO. This strategic approach aims to make IPO more accessible, particularly to the business classes and the youth.

Amil highlighted the ongoing digitisation efforts within IPO, leveraging the support of PITB, as a vital step in modernising institutions in today’s world.

He emphasised the youth’s predominant connection to IT and social media, indicating that this digital initiative will enable them to lodge online complaints

and avail other IPO services conveniently.

Moreover, Amil mentioned IPO’s ongoing efforts to educate the youth about IPO in universities and educational institutions, foreseeing a positive trend in financial education among them.

Anticipating the outcomes of automation within the IPO, chairman Amil highlighted the prospects of enhanced transparency and simplified processes within the institution.

Director General of IPO, Shazia

PPP fears pre-poll rigging through police transfers in Sindh HYDERABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has expressed its concern over the transfers of senior police officials in Sindh. In his letter to the chief election commissioner (CEC), the party’s Central Election Monitoring Cell Incharge Senator Taj Haider, while referring to the transfers of eight police officials made by the Sindh government in the ongoing month of December has said that this step by the provincial government is a violation of section 230 of the Election Act, 2017. The senator writes that a few days ago seven, of eight officers, of the rank of superintendent police (SP) and senior superintendent of police (SSP), had been directed to report to the CPO. It is further written in the letter that eight police officials have been posted in district Kashmore after transferring the SSP to the station. “There is no emergency which has necessitated the transfers of these officials on such a large scale,” the senator writes, adding, “It appears that the Sindh government has made all such postings to exert pressure on voters and to pave the way for the rigging of elections through the involvement of police.” The letter further reads that another matter of concern for the PPP is that a retired FIA DG is now PML-N Sindh president, who can use his connections and wield influence to rig elections. “The recent posting of SP District Matyari is especially noteworthy,” writes the senator. He further states that keeping in view the above-mentioned facts, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is requested to declare all such postings cancelled.

Adnan, expressed optimism regarding the agreement with PITB, stating that within the next two months, online payments and documentation processes will become easier, thus promoting Ease of Doing Business (EODB) within IPO. She detailed the convenience of accessing 27 different channels, including online banking and apps, for documentation and payments.

Adnan revealed that the digitization process commenced in October 2023, enabling the submission of 17 forms

through the online system. She emphasised that this advancement eliminates the need for physical visits to the IPO office, as the process has been streamlined through 33 different modules.

Furthermore, Adnan highlighted the primary objective of the MOU, emphasising the need for IPO-Pakistan to digitise its collection and payment system through alternate payment methods, thereby integrating with banking channels for efficient revenue monitoring and streamlined financial operations.

On PITB’s front, Director General Saima R. Sheikh affirmed their institutional support to streamline IPO’s digitization, aiming to enhance efficiency and improve the ease of doing business within IPO. She emphasised that the online process will significantly improve service delivery, making facilities accessible through online systems such as banking and apps.

Sheikh detailed the project’s scope, encompassing the automation and digitization of payment collection via all Alternative Delivery Channels (ADC).

PITB plans to introduce a web-based software solution named PayZen, integrating with IPO-PAKISTAN’s line of business application to digitise payments for collections and payments, ultimately issuing digital challans with

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is witnessing a surge in financial activity, setting the stage for one of the country’s most expensive polls to date. Nomination fees have already reached an impressive total of 655.7 million rupees. The National Assembly race stands out as the epicenter of financial movement, with candidates competing for the 8,312 general seats collectively contributing nearly 250 million rupees in nomination fees.

Notably, the reserved seats for women and minorities have also witnessed significant financial commitments, as 459 candidates and 140 candidates have invested 13.8 million rupees and 4.5 million rupees, respectively. In parallel, the provincial assembly elections reflect a similar enthusiasm, boasting a substantial collection of over 406 million rupees in nomination fees. The lion’s share of this amount comes from the general seats, with 18,546 candidates contributing a hefty sum of 379.2 million rupees. Additionally, reserved seats for women and minorities have attracted 1,365 and 393 candidates, resulting in 27.3 million rupees and 7.8 million rupees, respectively.

PTI’s ex-MPA taken into custody at Multan Airport MULTAN

Staff RepoRt

Massive sell-off wipes out 2,500 points from PSX g

KSE-100 index settles at 59,170.97 points, down by 4.11% from the previous close PROFIT

Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) suffered a bloodbath on Tuesday, bleeding more than 2,500 points, or a fall of over 4% due to a massive sell-off by the major players in the market.

According to the PSX website, the benchmark KSE-100 index settled at 59,170.97 points at the end of the trading, down by 2534.12 points or 4.11% from the previous close of 61,705.09 points on December 22.

The bourse started the day on a negative note and at 9:50 am it shed over 1009.92 points and dipped to 60,695.17 points. The market continued its gradual slide with the KSE-100 eventually losing 1500 points by noon, sinking to 60120 points.

The situation worsened after 2:00 pm, when the market plunged steeply by 2,000 points and at 3:26 the benchmark index nosedived to its lowest level of 59026.81, a decline of 2,678.28 points. This was the biggest single-day fall in KSE-100 history.

Almost all the major sectors of the market traded in the red as the investors offloaded their holdings. The automobile assemblers, cement, chemical, commercial banks, oil and gas marketing companies, oil and gas

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

exploration companies, refineries, and pharmaceutical sectors were among the worst performers.

The exchange traded funds, fertilizer, food and personal care products, insurance, investment banks and securities companies also faced selling pressure.

The market experts attributed the selling pressure to a correction phase after the PSX had shown remarkable growth in the past few weeks, reaching record high levels of over 67,000 points. However, the benchmark index has shed 11% in just nine sessions.

Experts said that the correction was healthy and temporary, and the market would bounce back soon on the back of strong fundamentals and positive outlook.

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

the KP’s financial matters and formulate recommendations regarding the payment of net hydel profits and the royalty of oil

As the general elections, scheduled to be held on February 8, 2024, are approaching so is the crackdown on the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leaders, especially those who have filed their nomination papers, is intensifying. In a latest instance, the party’s ex-MPA from Arifwala Chaudhry Naeem Ibrahim was taken into custody by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) when he arrived at the Multan International Airport from Sharjah on Tuesday morning. Quoting his spokesman, sources told 24News TV channel that the former MPA was arrested despite the fact that a court had granted him bail until December 27. The spokesman further said that Naeem Ibrahim had filed his nomination papers from both the National Assembly and Punjab Assembly constituencies.

Former foreign secretary Riaz Khokhar passes away

NewS DeSk

Govt to extend all-out support for uplift of KP merged districts: PM Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday said that despite the availability of limited resources, the government would extend all possible support to the provincial government for uplift and welfare of the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The prime minister, chairing a meeting to discuss the matters about KP, said that being cognizant of their problems, the federal government stood with the government and people of the province.

He also instructed the authorities concerned to resolve the issues confronting the KP province that had rendered immense sacrifices against terrorism. The prime minister instructed to form a secretarial committee to resolve

Election 2024: Exchequer gets Rs 655.7m in lieu of nomination papers fee

and gas. To be headed by the federal finance secretary, the committee would consist of federal secretaries of planning,

water resources, and petroleum.

Prime Minister Kakar also called for expediting the process of granting the university status to Khyber Medical College of Peshawar and Ayub Medical College of Abbottabad. Prime Minister Kakar said that during the last four months, the caretaker government had introduced reforms in every sector for the benefit of the country and nation as well as for facilitating the next elected government.

Caretaker federal ministers Dr Shamshad Akhtar, Muhammad Ali and Ahmed Irfan Aslam, Caretaker KP Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Arshad Hussain Shah, KP Minister Amir Abdullah, chairmen of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and senior officers attended the meeting.

Former foreign secretary Riaz Khokhar passes away on Tuesday after prolonged illness. The deceased served as Pakistan’s ambassador to China, India and the United States and was undergoing treatment since long due to health issues. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sherry Rehman has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the demise of Riaz Khokhar. She said that late Riaz Khokhar always supported a developed Pakistan and remained ready to share his intellectual views in this connection.

Sherry Rehman prayed for the departed soul in eternal peace and courage for the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude.

20,566 suspected cases of dengue reported in 2023: KP health dept PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

Secretary Health KP, Mahmood Aslam, stated that in the year 2023, there were 20,566 suspected cases of dengue reported. After screening 19,013 cases, dengue was confirmed in 747 individuals. Notably, no fatalities have been recorded due to dengue this year. Compared to the 22,960 cases reported last year, the current figure of 747 cases indicates a significant 97% reduction. These details were released in a statement from his office on Tuesday.

Secretary Health KP- Mahmood Aslam highlighted that despite limited resources and funding, Civil defense and other line departments have demonstrated improved efficiency in tackling dengue. He emphasized that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reports the lowest number of dengue cases in the entire country. Furthermore, Mahmood Aslam shared that over 10 million homes were checked as part of the dengue prevention campaign.

SELF SUSTENANCE INEVITABLE FOR SUCCESS IN THE WORLD: PRESIDENT Wednesday, 27 December, 2023 | KARACHI

P

KARACHI

Staff RepoRt

RESIDENT Dr. Arif Alvi on Tuesday said that self-sustenance is inevitable for the success in the world and expressed the confidence that Pakistan would progress and develop.

Addressing as chief guest on the occasion of the 35th Convocation ceremony of Pakistan Navy Engineering College (PNEC) at Baharia Auditorium here, he said that the world needed intellect at the moment and there was no dearth of it in Pakistan.

Rector National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Lt General (R)

PPP to unveil manifesto for general elections

Mehmood and Commander Karachi Rear Admiral Muhammad Saleem were also present. During the convocation, a total of 368 graduates were awarded Bachelors’ and Postgraduate degrees including the foreign students.

The President also awarded 39 medals to the students on their outstanding performance. Self-sustenance inevitable for success in the world: President Addressing the convocation, President Dr. Arif Alvi appreciated the efforts put in by the PNEC for maintaining high standards of education by providing quality engineers to the evolving industry of Pakistan.

He emphasized that responsibility of PNEC has further increased in present realm

He highlighted that NUST PNEC will continue with its legacy of being the premier engineering and technology institution, fulfilling present day engineering needs of the country.

ECP warns govt employees against participating in political activities ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan People’s Party’s (PPP) electoral manifesto has been finalised, which will likely be announced tomorrow by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari General elections are scheduled to take place on February 8.

After the end of the deadline for submission of nomination papers on December 24, the ECP is currently conducting scrutiny of the papers.

According to sources, the PPP’s manifesto for the general elections 2024 has been finalised after consultation with experts. The announcement will likely be made by PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in tomorrow’s public gathering in Larkana to mark the death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto or in Karachi, the sources said.

According to party sources, the PPP’s manifesto is prepared in the form of a booklet that include the achievements of its former government including rehabilitation of flood victims by constructing new homes for them, expansion of the Benazir Income Support Program, youth card, labor and farmer card extension? The manifesto includes “Bilawal ayega rozgar layega” slogan while mitigating poverty, social security, power generation? employment growth and business industry subsidies Packages are also part of the manifesto?

ECP rejects claims of influence on nomination paper decisions ISLAMABAD

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday firmly denied claims that decisions on accepting or rejecting nomination papers are influenced by reports from FBR, NAB and others.

The Commission’s spokesperson strongly refuted a news item attributed to the spokesperson of the Punjab Election Commission (PEC), that the Election Commission had purportedly made decisions on accepting or rejecting candidate nomination papers upon receiving reports from institutions like NAB, FBR and others. He stated that the Commission had not taken any such decision, emphasizing that the news was entirely false and fabricated, lacking any basis. The media has been informed by the Punjab Election Commission that the scrutiny of nomination papers would persist until December 30. Subsequently, the list of candidates with approved nominations would be unveiled.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday issued a pre-general election advisory, instructing government officers and employees to refrain from participating in political activities.

According to the issued circular, government officials and employees are restricted from engaging in election activities.

The advisory specifies that government officials and employees were prohibited from taking part in election activities. Government officials seeking leave must obtain approval from Returning Officers (ROs), while district officers must seek permission from the District

Returning Officers (DRO) for their leaves.

The ECP advisory stated that the federal government employees up to grade 19 can have their leave

sanctioned by DROs. The advisory specifies that officers in Grade-20 and above are required to obtain leave approval directly from the Commission.

UN alarmed by ongoing Israeli Christmas strikes that kill scores in central Gaza CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

At Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest medical facility in the southern Gaza Strip, medics said 10 Palestinians had been killed in two separate Israeli air strikes.

“There were displaced people and residents inside the house, more than 20 people, children and women.

We managed to rescue some children, but the rest were martyred,” said Khan Younis resident Salah Shaat, describing the aftermath of an air strike at sunset on Monday.

Washington has openly pressed Israel in recent weeks to scale down its Gaza war from a fullblown military assault to a more targeted operation of raids on Hamas leaders. But Israel says it will not stop fighting until Hamas is completely destroyed.

Netanyahu hammered that point on Monday at a meeting with lawmakers after visiting troops in Gaza.

“We are not stopping. The war will continue until the end, until we finish it, no less,” he said.

Netanyahu adviser Mark Regev told CNN on Tuesday that destroying Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, was “a prerequisite for a better future both for Israelis and Palestinians”.

“You won’t have a demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza without first destroying Hamas. You can’t have reconstruction in Gaza, rebuilding the lives of people without first getting rid of Hamas.”

Elsewhere in the region, US forces have come under

attack by Iran-backed militants in Iraq and Syria over Washington’s backing of Israel.

In the latest clash, the US military carried out retaliatory air strikes on Monday in Iraq after a drone attack by Iran-aligned militants on a US base in Erbil left one US service member in critical condition and wounded two.

The air strikes killed “a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants” and destroyed multiple facilities used by the group, the US military said.

There were new reports of new explosions near shipping off the coast of Yemen, where the Iran-aligned Houthi movement has attacked ships it says have links to Israel in the entrance to the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.

On Monday an Israeli air strike killed a senior leader of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in Syria.

On the Lebanon border, Israel said on Tuesday that nine Israeli soldiers and one civilian had been injured by anti-tank missiles fired from Lebanon towards a church, drawing retaliatory air strikes against Hezbollah targets.

“We are in a multi-front war and are coming under attack from seven theatres: Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Judea and Samaria (the West Bank), Iraq, Yemen and Iran,” Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant told lawmakers, listing six places where Iran-backed militants are active, as well as Iran itself.

“We have already responded and taken action in six of these theatres,” he said, without specifying the one that had yet to see Israeli action.

PTI gets ‘life’ back as PHC suspends ECP’s verdict on party’s intra-polls CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Earlier, talking to media person outside Peshawar High Court, PTI leader Babar Awan said his party’s electoral symbol was bat which would remain with it in future too. He said PTI founder had been its chairman in past and would enjoy the same position in future too.

Awan said his party was going to challenge the decision in the PHC and would also move a contempt case in the Supreme Court against Election Commission of Pakistan.

He said as per the apex court order, whoever would impede smooth conduct of general elections would be proceeded against. The PTI leader said pre-poll rigging was underway in Punjab against his party. He said nomination papers were snatched from his party workers and leaders.

Proceedings of the proceedings: As the single-judge started proceedings, Zafar highlighted that when a party provides its intra-party poll details to the ECP, the commission typically issues a certificate and posts it on its website.

“This certificate then renders the political party eligible to receive its electoral symbol.” However, Zafar argued that, as of now, the certificate has not yet been uploaded to the ECP website.

Zafar argued that the ECP’s directives were illegal, asserting that stripping the PTI of its electoral symbol was also unjust. “With over 0.8 million members, none from within the party raised concerns about the intra-party polls,” he conveyed to the court.

He also questioned the relevance of individuals approaching the ECP. “These are ordinary citizens, not affiliated with the PTI,” the lawyer contended.

He emphasised that judgments in such cases could not be given by civil courts without a proper trial. “The ECP stated that Omer Ayub is not the secretary-general, hence he cannot make any appointments,” Zafar remarked, adding that even if there were errors in appointments, the polls themselves could not be challenged. The PTI had challenged the ECP order earlier in the day and urged the court to fix the matter for hearing at the earliest.

According to the petition, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, the PTI said the ECP order was “without legal authority and jurisdiction”.

The party insisted that the ECP’s proceedings that questioned the PTI’s intra-party polls were “coram non-judice (without jurisdiction) and without lawful authority”. It urged the court to direct the ECP to publish the results of the PTI’s intra-party polls on its website and restore the party’s symbol.

Election symbol is the life of any party: Ali Zafar: Talking to the media after the PHC verdict, PTI counsel Barrister Ali Zafar said the election symbol was the “life” of any party and a basic constitutional right of the organisation and its workers, supporters and voters.

“Today the high court has upheld that basic right and declared that the ‘bat’ symbol belongs to the PTI and restored it.”Zafar said the ECP had given its verdict in the case as if it was an

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The President felicitated the graduating students and their parents and advised the graduates to be active members of society in building a stronger and prosperous Pakistan and keep themselves abreast and with fast changing advancements in technology.

President Dr. Arif Alvi termed the completion of degrees by students as an opening of the doors to the knowledge for the students and said, they must learn more and more.

Commandant PNEC Earlier, Commodore Tauqeer Ahmad Khawaja apprised that PNEC was making all out efforts to provide the best engineering education to its students in multiple disciplines.

Further, he highlighted the achievements of students in various events held at national and international levels. He highlighted the opportunities provided to the students at different forums in order to groom and nurture the young engineers.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of military and civil dignitaries and parents of graduating students.

ATC grants bail to Manzoor Pashteen ISLAMABAD

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of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. He also acknowledged that foreign students were a testimony to the College’s credentials in the engineering sector.

NEWS

“opponent” of the PTI instead of a just arbitrator and also questioned why the lawyers from parties or the government were present in today’s hearing. “It seemed that they were against the PTI together with the ECP,” he said.

Zafar said that the ECP should remain “independent and free”.

Meanwhile, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said the PHC had undermined and eliminated the “conspiracy against the PTI, its symbol and its supporters” with its order. He added that the high court had restored the trust of the party and the nation in the judiciary.

“It seemed as if the ECP were against us, it did not feel as if they were fair,” PTI lawyer Ali Zafar said while speaking to the media outside the PHC alongside Gohar Khan, adding that a symbol is a fundamental right.

“The way lawyers from different parties were arguing in courts today, it seemed as if they were collaborating against PTI. One should not get this perspective, they should stay independent” he said. Gohar said there was a “great need” for the suspension order since nomination papers for the general elections have been filed and the scrutiny process is under way.

He said the PTI had sent its priority list and all the provinces accepted it other than Punjab, adding that the final list issued included all political parties other than the PTI. The PTI chairman said the party would request the ECP to ensure elections were free, fair and transparent, adding that the party had always expressed confidence in the watchdog.

“Our trust was hurt, justice wasn’t done with us but we were discriminated against.”

‘We shall go ahead with election preparation now as SC to ensure free polls’ Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan has stated that we shall go ahead with election preparations after the Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) decision of restoration of PTI electoral symbol of “bat”. Reacting to the PHC’s verdict suspending Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) order regarding PTI electoral symbol “bat”, PTI Chairman said: “Alhamdulillah, ECP order has been suspended, bat as election symbol has been restored.”

Barrister Gohar has said that ECP has been directed to publish our Certificate on its website. “Now we shall go ahead with election preparation as we hope, Supreme Court will ensure holding of elections on time.”

Separately, Barrister Gohar Ali met the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in jail and after consultation, he decided to file a petition in the Peshawar High Court, said the sources.

The ECP’s ruling, reached through an unprecedented scrutiny of a political party’s internal workings, deemed PTI ineligible for an election symbol in the forthcoming general elections.

Citing non-compliance with their directives and failure to conduct intraparty elections in accordance with PTI’s prevailing Constitution of 2019, the Election Act of 2017, and Election Rules of 2017, the ECP outlined its decision in an 11-page order issued on November 23,

The anti-terrorism court (ATC) of Islamabad ordered the release of Manzoor Pashteen, the head of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), granting him bail in two cases of making speeches against the government institutions. ATC judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain heard the bail application of Pashteen, who was arrested from Chaman earlier this month.

During the hearing, Prosecutor Raja Naveed told the court that Pashteen made speeches against government institutions. However, Pashteen’s lawyer denied that his client made such speeches. He said that the case against Pashteen was politicallymotivated. Later, the court granted bail against Rs30,000 surety bonds each in two cases.

Pakistan committed to strengthening ties with China: PM ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday said Pakistan was committed to taking its relationship with China to new heights of cooperation and solidarity. PM Kakar expressed these views as the country’s ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi called on him here at the PM’s Office. The prime minister expressed confidence that Ambassador Hashmi, who recently assumed his responsibilities in Beijing, would play his role in further strengthening ties between Pakistan and China.

Workers’ forced dismissal from media houses unacceptable: Solangi ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Tuesday said that forced dismissals of workers from media houses were not acceptable. It was the government’s responsibility to implement the legal protection provided to media workers and journalists under the law, Murtaza Solangi maintained while talking to journalists who had staged a walkout from the Press Gallery during the Senate session against forced dismissals by their respective media organizations. He said that he stood with journalists and media workers on this issue. The minister said the issue was discussed with the Chairman Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and Senate’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting is also scheduled to meet on Friday afternoon where it will also be discussed with the Chairperson of the panel.

Senate unanimously approves first Parliamentary Caucus on Water Resources ISLAMABAD app

The Upper House of the Parliament on Tuesday unanimously approved the first ever Parliamentary Caucus on Water Resources by adopting a motion moved by Senator Saadia Abbasi of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in this regard. The 334th session of Senate was presided over by Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani. Presenting the motion, Senator Abbasi maintained that under Rule 204 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Senate, 2012, the House might authorize the Senate chairman to appoint a Parliamentary Caucus on Water Resources in the country, comprising the members of the Senate and the Minister for Water Resources as an ex-officio member.

Imran knocks at SC’s door against Toshakhana conviction once again CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

The Toshakhana has been under a microscope ever since the emergence of the allegations that Imran Khan purchased the gifts he received as prime minister at throwaway rates and sold them off in the open market for staggering profits. The 70-year-old cricketerturned-politician was accused of misusing his 2018 to 2022 premiership to buy and sell gifts in state possession that were received during visits abroad and worth more than Rs140 million ($635,000). The gifts included watches given by a royal family, according to government officials, who have alleged previously that Khan’s aides sold them in Dubai.

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BNP's Foreign Gambit

Good news not good enough

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Inflation is still not coming down, which means that the next government will have its work cut out

A Risky Ploy on Bangladesh's Political Chessboard

HOUGH the direction of events should lead not just to a controlling of inflation, but an actual decline in some prices, the latest figures from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics show that inflation measured by the Sensitive Price Index is running at 41.66 percent, the sixth consecutive montbat that it remained at over 40 percent, For a country predicted to have low growth, this means a stagflationary scenario. However, the inflation rate seems not to be responding to the international decline in commodity prices, nor the decline in fuel prices, nor the appreciation of the currency. The continuation of wheat imports meant that there was less wheat imported at a lower price. While wheat imports went down from $ 460 million to $308 million in the first five months of the current fiscal year; the shelf price of flour does not reflect the decline. The price may have been revised downwards by millers, but there has been a recent upward revision of Rs five per kg.

The price of fuel, and thus of transport, including that of people, should have gone down with the world price of oil, but the main decline should have occurred because of the reversal in the decline of the rupee, which had sunk to Rs 307.10 to the dollar by September 5, but which had recovered to Rs 276 by October 16. It has once again declined, and the dollar was selling in the open market at Rs 285.20. Clearly, inflation is far from under control.

The State Bank’s benchmark overnight lending rate has now been at 22 percent for a long period, and cannot be said to have the anti-inflationary effects it was supposed to. It may have squeezed credit for the private sector, and thus allowed the government access to credit, but the punitive interest rate has meant a ballooning of government borrowing. That borrowing has meant a soaring of domestic debt servicing costs, with the government in the dangerous position of having to borrow to meet interest payments. The new government will be selected by the voter on the basis of its perceived ability to bring down inflation.It will have to introduce measures to continue this development if it hopes to avoid a reaction from the voters, which will show itself long before the next accounting at the hustings.

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M. a. Hossain

S the 12th parliamentary general election in Bangladesh approaches on January 7, the whole nation is immersed in the election vibes. However, a shadow looms over the electoral process as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies have chosen to boycott the upcoming election and engage in various subversive activities to thwart it. Needless to say, these undemocratic actions are fueling frustration and discontent among the people and ultimately eroding support for the BNP. The BNP's decision to abstain from the democratic process and rely on foreign powers instead of the people's support is akin to 'politics on deathbed,' as observed by political pundits. This move not only dampens the festive mood surrounding the general election but also risks undermining the party's organizational structure, pushing it into fragility.

Contrastingly, the Bangladesh Awami League (AL), another major political party in the country, has been in power since 2009, ruling the country for a third term. The AL's ascendancy is not solely attributed to its popularity but is also a result of several political missteps by the BNP. In 2014, despite pre-poll surveys favoring the BNP over the AL, the high command of BNP decided not to participate in the general election, opting instead for anarchy and anti-state activities nationwide, which was a great political blunder.

In 2018, the BNP committed another political blunder by abandoning its core demand for a neutral election-time government. This decision left the nation stunned as the party performed a somersault on its electoral manifesto and exploited opportunities for financial gain through the party's nomination process.

In the January 2024 election, the BNP appears to be repeating the mistakes of 2014. Tarique Rahman (BNP's Vice Chairman and de facto supremo) initially sought international support for the pro-democratic movement and the promotion of human rights values in Bangladesh. The Western powers initially recognized the movement but BNP's violent and offensive postures on October 28 undermined democratic values, causing a rift with foreign actors. The party's decision to obstruct people from participating in the democratic process further exacerbates its standing in national politics.

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami

Prospects for Disarmament

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M. A. Niazi

Editor Umar Aziz

Joint Editor

Executive Editor

The Case of India and Pakistan Malaika afridi

HE animosity between the two states with incompatible ideologies can be traced back to the time of partition.Since then, the South Asian region has experienced instability and prospects for stability remain improbable.

The changing security landscape between India and Pakistan is characterized by increasing instability which affects their strategic agendas. India and Pakistan's security is hampered by unresolved territorial disputes, growing military competition, and an increased likelihood of war. Most importantly, the absence of control mechanisms between the two states decreases the possibility of improving the situation and increases the probability of an armed conflict. Deterrence and coercion have taken precedence over cooperation since both regimes prioritize using force to accomplish their national security objectives.

Before publicly declaring itself to be a nuclear weapon state, India sought equal recognition with other major nuclear powers. This influenced its approach to international arms control and disarmament treaties. Pakistan, which cannot afford to compete with India in nuclear affairs, wished to restrict regional atomic rivalry. Both countries are not part of any prominent treaties focusing on disarmament, arms control, and nuclear testing. India did not agree to be a party to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), claiming them to be discriminatory. India's stance post-1998 is that it would only disarm if other nuclear powers do so first. However, India's threat was Pakistan's only resistance to becoming a party to these treaties. According to Adil Sultan (2019), during the pre-nuclearisation stage, Pakistan supported these treaties as long as they prevented its hostile neighbour from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Similarly, both states refused to accept the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT). Pakistan maintains that a Fissile Material "Cut-Off" Treaty would perpetuate regional asymmetries and potentially permanently disadvantage Pakistan against India. This is because India began

producing fissile materials much earlier and is thought to have a significant quantity of unprotected inventory of fissile material. It is also important to note that India enjoys leverage in the international community. India has room to continue developing its nuclear capability with assistance from the USA and other major Western powers. As a result, this lessens India's motivation to participate positively in any international agreements that may limit its goal of becoming a regional or global force.

The history of India’s and Pakistan’s hostile relations has proved that there is a need for disarmament and arms control mechanisms. According to then US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, India and Pakistan were at the brink of a "nuclear conflagration," referring to the Indian strikes in Pakistan in 2019. According to Ijaz Haider (2023), the strike was an election tactic on Modi’s part as elections were coming up in India. Moreover, as both states are unwilling to budge from their hardline stances, there is also little chance for resolution of the ongoing Kashmir issue, which is a significant cause for continued hostility. The decision taken by the Indian government in February 2019 to annex Kashmir has also intensified tensions and weakened strategic stability. Ijaz Haider (2023) further ascertained Pakistan's deterrence strategy, regional peace, and the fragmented global order are significantly impacted

by India's modernization and expansion of its nuclear weapons and the BJP's antagonistic

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

Wednesday, 27 December, 2023

It is crucial to acknowledge the international community's role as one of facilitation rather than interference in the domestic affairs of a sovereign nation.

While foreign partners can contribute to promoting democratic values and human rights, the ultimate responsibility for shaping political futures lies with the voters. The BNP's boycott raises serious questions about the party's commitment to the people.

In the current context, the BNP and its allies are neglecting the importance of engaging with the native people and leaning more towards foreign actors. This political blunder may lead the people of Bangladesh to question the BNP's commitment and become skeptical about bringing them to power. It would have been a wise political decision if BNP exposed any irregularities of the AL government by participating in the election, rather than also refrain from hindering other representations in the democratic process.

The BNP must heed Henry Kissinger's quote, "America has no permanent friends or enemies, only interests." The people of Bangladesh may not appreciate Tarique Rahman's audacity, who is leading a lavish life in London while issuing detrimental instructions to party leaders and countrymen. It would

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stance towards Pakistan and China. Thus, both sides are advancing nuclear and missile arsenals when there is little framework for communication between the two. This does not make the situation any better either.

History has proved that for every Indian action, there is a Pakistani reaction.

What spurred the initiation of Pakistan's nuclear programme was the Indian threat. The cause behind Pakistan not being party to major international arms control and disarmament treaties is again India's self-exclusion from the treaties. The same goes for the active buildup of arsenals by Pakistan, which is a response to India, and there are numerous other examples when looking into the past.

The deeply rooted hatred and lack of communication between the two have always limited the chances of developing an arms control and disarmament mechanism. In the current global order, the probability of an arms race between nations has increased. It is unrealistic to imagine cooperation between India and Pakistan, especially with the upcoming elections of 2024 in India as Modi's government could target Pakistan as it did in 2019.

The current global situation also proves that international cooperation and disarmament regimes have severely weakened, especially looking at the ongoing Ukraine war and genocide in Gaza. Keeping the historical events and current global situation in view, the prospects of disarmament remain unlikely not just between India and Pakistan but globally, as the regime has weakened.

As mentioned previously, Pakistan mimics the behaviour of India, and unless India takes an initiative towards bilateral or multilateral cooperation, one cannot hope that the situation will change. In today's world, the advancement of technology and the development of nuclear and conventional weapons is on the rise. Therefore, prospects of disarmament remain low and the risk of nuclear war is looming on the horizon.

The writer graduated in Politics and International Relations from the University of London's International Programme. She can be reached at malaika.afridi.9@gmail.com

Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

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M A Hossain, a political and defense analyst based in Bangladesh. He can be reached at: writetomahossain@gmail.com

Not even a superpower could not save Saddam Hussein, Muammar Gaddafi or Osama bin Laden, though once they all had been allies of the West. BNP should reconsider its ties with foreign actors, understanding that Bangladesh holds no ideological or religious significance for Western powers but is viewed through the lens of geopolitical interest

Pakistan mimics the behaviour of India, and unless India takes an initiative towards bilateral or multilateral cooperation, one cannot hope that the situation will change. In today's world, the advancement of technology and the development of nuclear and conventional weapons is on the rise.

Therefore, prospects of disarmament remain low and the risk of nuclear war is looming on the horizon

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be a wise political decision if Mr. Rahman returns to Bangladesh and struggles for his legal battle and the political freedom of the people. Not even a superpower could not save Saddam Hussein, Muammar Gaddafi or Osama bin Laden, though once they all had been allies of the West. BNP should reconsider its ties with foreign actors, understanding that Bangladesh holds no ideological or religious significance for Western powers but is viewed through the lens of geopolitical interest.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's political acumen, emphasizing the true strength of democracy—the people's mandate—may once again rescue her party from political upheaval ahead of the January polls.

That’s why, she has prioritized independent candidates over alliance members labeled as parasite in the electoral process. BNP's reliance on external actors and disregard for the people's mandate is a political blunder that will likely have heavy consequences in the future.

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Mosquito-born diseases surge

THE health department in Sindh province has confirmed a significant increase in malaria cases, with more than double the number compared to the past two years. Simultaneously, dengue cases have recently started to emerge. Official statistics indicate 31,000 malaria cases in Hyderabad division in August alone, along with 828 dengue patients, although no fatalities have been reported. Both diseases are transmitted by different mosquito species, and several factors contribute to their prevalence. Ignorance, unfavourable climatic conditions, poor sanitation, and inadequate preventive measures in rural areas foster mosquito breeding.

Malaria and dengue tests are expensive, making them inaccessible to the economically disadvantaged, earning malaria the label of a “disease of the poor.” Dengue fever cases are also on the rise in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad, with expectations of further increases in the next two months.

The ongoing monsoon season has left stagnant rainwater in many areas, necessitating immediate drainage. In rural regions, a significant portion of the population sleeps with open windows and doors or in open spaces during the summer, creating vulnerability to mosquito bites. To address these issues, health departments and local authorities must conduct mosquito-spraying efforts. Additionally, citizens should protect their homes with mosquito repellents and ensure that clean water containers are wellcovered to prevent the breeding of the specific dengue mosquito.

AMIN WASTOO HOSHAB

Gender gap in Pakistani politics

DEMOCRACY in Pakistan has often been tenuous, marked by interventions and low voter turnout. However, there has been positive progress, with over 21 million new voters, including 11.74 million women, added to the electoral rolls. This narrows the gender gap from 11 million in 2018 to 10 million. Despite these gains, women’s participation in politics faces challenges, including the fear of harassment and societal taboos. In some areas, women are still prohibited from voting. Local authorities must ensure women’s voting rights are protected. Some political parties have also barred women from voting, perpetuating misogyny.

Fortunately, updated election laws now require women’s votes to constitute 10% of the total votes in any constituency, giving them a stronger voice. Social media and increased access to technology have also empowered young women voters. Climate ‘countdown clock’ report launched ahead of key UN talks In 2023, it is crucial to address these issues, as women constitute 49% of the population. Encouraging women’s participation in politics is essential for Pakistan’s democratic future, especially in a challenging political landscape.

MUHAMMAD AMIN KECH

Import duties dilemma

IN an effort to combat Pakistan’s ongoing economic crisis, the caretaker government is considering imposing “prohibitive” regulatory duties on luxury and non-essential imports. Previously, Pakistan implemented a strict import ban to safeguard its foreign reserves, initially yielding positive results in the current account. However, when the government relaxed these restrictions, the Pakistani rupee rapidly depreciated, and the gains in reducing trade deficits were minimal compared to the damage inflicted on productive and export sectors. Now, the government is preparing a more comprehensive plan that may expand the list of restricted products by at least 30 percent. This move raises concerns about the lack of a viable local industry to substitute for these imported goods.

AMIN BALOCH TUNK

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

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Wednesday, 27 December, 2023

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sajjad sHaukat

AKISTAN had played a key role in connection with the agreement signed between the USA and the Taliban on 29 February 2020 in Doha, the capital of Qatar, which resulted in the withdrawal of the NATO forces from Afghanistan.

US top officials, including her special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad. had appreciated Islamabad in this regard.

In the agreement, it was stated that the Taliban would not allow Al-Qaeda or any other extremist group to use Afghan soil to conduct attacks against the countries neighbouring Afghanistan and on Western forces.

After the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, Pakistan’s civil and military leadership repeatedly urged the US-led international community to assist the people of Afghanistan by addressing their humanitarian needs, and to restore their financial and economic aid, as a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was essential for the stability in Pakistan as well as the entire region, including the West.

Bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan increased in the post-Taliban takeover. The then Prime Minister Imran Khan on 23 November 2021 had ordered immediate shipment of humanitarian assistance of Rs. 5 billion to Kabul.

Setting aside Islamabad’s efforts regarding the Doha agreement and aid to Afghanistan, the interim Afghan government failed in stopping cross-border terror attacks in Pakistan.

In this context, in a news release, military’s media wing Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) revealed that the security forces on 12 December 2023 killed 27 terrorists in various intelligence-based operations, conducted to contain the increased activities of terrorists in Dera Ismail Khan

COMMENT 05

Pakistan Warns Afghan Taliban against Protecting TTP Militants A violation of the Doha Agreement

District, while successfully thwarting insurgents’ attacks at a military post in Daraban area —23 brave soldiers embraced martyrdom.

The Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), a terrorist outfit affiliated with the Afghanistan-based Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which emerged on the scene in February this year, took responsibility for the Dera Ismail Khan attack.

Hours after the assault, the Foreign Secretary called in the Afghan chargé d'affaires to deliver Pakistan’s strong demarche. He was asked to immediately convey to the Afghan government to fully investigate and take stern action against perpetrators of the recent attack, demanding, verifiable actions against all terrorist groups— their sanctuaries; that it apprehend and hand over the perpetrators and the TTP leadership in Afghanistan to the Government of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, a terrorist assault unfolded at a police line in Tank, marked by a relentless six-hour exchange of fire between the security forces and the assailants since the wee hours of December 15, this year. Three brave policemen were martyred and three terrorists who were present within the police line territory were eliminated.

In fact, in the recent months, Pakistan witnessed a new wave of terror-attacks by the TTP, particularly in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan after the TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year. The TTP terrorists targeted the installations of the security forces as well as their convoys.

In this respect, the report released by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty on March 29 disclosed: “Militants who carry out attacks inside Pakistan have obtained US weapons left behind in Afghanistan… US weapons have boosted the military capabili-

ties of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and Baloch separatist groups…The Afghan Taliban seized the arms”.

Kabul, for its part, denies the charge.

The reality has been starkly different, as attacks have surged in Pakistan in the past two years.

According to the Islamabad-based think tank, “January this year was the deadliest month in Pakistan since July 2018, with 134 people killed and 254 injured in 44 attacks across the country”.

Besides other terror assaults, at least 44 persons were killed in suicide attack at the rally of the JUI(F) on July 30 in the outskirts of Khar in Bajaur district, which borders Afghanistan.

Pakistan’s Interim Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar stated on November 8, this year: “Since the Taliban have come to power, the terrorist incidents increased in Pakistan by 65 percent, while the suicide attacks have increased by 500 percent...the interim Afghanistan administration is providing support to the Tehreek-e-Talibane-Pakistan, which is using Afghan soil against Pakistan...We shared all the details with the Afghan interim government, but they did not take action against TTP terrorists”.

Earlier, a high-level Pakistani delegation led by the then Defense Minister Khawaja Asif along with ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmed Anjum, visited Kabul on February 22 with the main agenda of countering terrorism and the use of Afghanistan soil by the TTP militants. GDI, the Afghan intelligence agency, briefed the Pakistani delegation and accepted the problem of terrorism originating from Afghanistan soil and pledged to take action.

However, giving a November 1 deadline, Pakistan on October 3 ordered all illegal

Western nations grapple with plots to assassinate Sikhs

immigrants, including 1.73 million Afghan nationals, to leave the country or face expulsion after revealing that 14 of 24 suicide bombings in the country in 2023 were carried out by Afghan nationals. Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch clarified that the decision to deport illegal residents was not specifically targeted at the Afghan refugees, but against all immigrants residing in the country illegally without valid visa documents— the operation was not against the Afghan refugees living legally— the country had been hosting them for several decades despite its economic constraints.

Referring to the TTP militant group, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir who met the interim Foreign Minister of the Taliban government in Rawalpindi on July 14, this year threatened Kabul with an effective response— Pakistan has “serious concerns on the safe havens and liberty of action available to the TTP in Afghanistan”.

As regards the terror assaults in Chitral, the ISPR on September 10 pointed out in a statement: “A large group of “terrorists had attacked two military check posts in Chitral district…Four soldiers were martyred…

Twelve terrorists associated with outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan were also killed during the clashes”.

And the tactical alliance between some Baloch separatist groups and the TTP is most alarming.

Despite the denial of the Afghan administration, reports suggest that TTP terrorists are still being sheltered by the conservative Islamic regime. Hence, Islamabad’s stance has become very tough towards the Afghan Taliban rulers after the latest upsurge of terror attacks by the TTP. Last year, Pakistan targeted militant sanctuaries based in Afghanistan’s Kunar and Nangarhar provinces.

It is mentionable that Pakistan’s Armed Forces and premier intelligence agency, the

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JAPAN TIMES RAMESH THAKUR

MID all the conflicts, turmoil and geopolitical developments in Europe and the Middle East, there is another odd set of developments largely under the radar at present that could yet have a major impact on the Indo-Pacific order unless handled carefully.

I refer to the curious cases of one successful and one thwarted plot to kill Canadian and U.S. Sikhs in North America.

The U.S. has indicted Indian national Nikhil Gupta on charges of trying to hire a hit man to kill a U.S. citizen, widely identified as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a lawyer for Sikhs for Justice, which is campaigning for the creation of Khalistan, an independent Sikh state. The hit man was an undercover U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration officer and Gupta was caught in a federal sting operation. He is alleged to have been acting under instructions from an unidentified Indian official.

Electronic communications establish a link also with the gangland style murder on June 18 of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent British Columbia Sikh leader who had been on India’s most wanted terrorist watchlist. On Sept.

18, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau implicated India in his killing.

Four features of the story are worth noting. First, if India’s spy agencies were involved, the diplomatic fallout should be the least of New Delhi's concerns compared to the sloppiness, incompetence and sheer stupidity of the intelligence agencies. The New York Times wrote on Nov. 30 that diplomats and experts were stunned India would embark on such a high-risk hit. The short answer is: Maybe it didn’t.

Any entry-level aficionado of espionage thrillers could pick apart the plot. India’s top spies would have to be ignorant of Edward Snowden’s revelations of global U.S. surveillance and how the National Security Agency eavesdropped on former German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conversations for decades. The potential returns to India were modest, the risks of detection very high and the consequences of detection very grave, including fatally undermining India’s international campaign against Pakistan as a state sponsor of terrorism.

The second notable feature is India’s response. A surprised India says such activity is not government policy; because they impinge adversely on India’s own security interests; they are “a cause of concern for both countries”; a high-level committee has been set up to examine the inputs; and, based on its findings, necessary follow-up action will be taken. Gupta’s known history vindicates India’s response about the “nexus between organized criminals, gun runners, terrorists and others.”

Third, this contrasts sharply with India’s response to Canada two months earlier. Trudeau had cited unspecified “credible allegations of a potential link” to Indian agents. India rejected the charge as “absurd and motivated” and denounced Canada as a “safe haven” for “terrorists, extremists and organized crime” — language normally reserved for Pakistan. A Foreign Ministry

Ramesh Thakur is emeritus professor at the Australian National University and a former United Nations Assistant Secretary-General. Of Indian origin, he is a Canadian and Australian citizen.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations and can be reached at: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

The key issues that will define Middle East politics in 2024

From undercover stings to diplomatic tensions, unpacking the Sikh hit man plots spokesman said India was “willing to look at any specific information that is provided to us. But so far we have not received any such specific information.”

Canada should have let the police complete investigations, charge alleged killers, give evidence of official complicity (forensic analysis, witness testimony, CCTV and/or surveillance photo, audio and text intercepts) and then request Indian assistance in judicial proceedings.

This is what the U.S. has done and hence the cooperative Indian response. By contrast, two months later, there is still no specific evidence forthcoming from Ottawa. Instead, in effect Trudeau said: We know you are guilty.

Now help us prove it.

Thus India’s response to the U.S. is consistent with that to Trudeau’s allegations. Meanwhile, even after the U.S. indictments, in a possibly telling sign of self-confidence, there is no detectable sense of embarrassment or panic in Indian official circles or media commentary. Of course, if official culpability is established, India will deserve the opprobrium heaped on it.

So far we have only the boastful claims of the alleged, unnamed accomplice himself of his status and connections. The outfit he supposedly belonged to is a paramilitary force engaged in counterinsurgency operations, not in espionage. The quid pro quo was supposedly the dropping of criminal charges against Gupta in Gujarat. Except state police have found no record of any case against any Nikhil Gupta.

Once the paymaster is identified, we will have a better sense of the choice between a state sanctioned and a rogue operation. India’s law enforcement and domestic intelligence services are highly politicized.

In the pre-Narendra Modi era, on one occasion the finance minister brought in private experts to sweep his premises for bugs he suspected might have been planted at the behest of the home minister, a potential leadership rival.

In other words, in Donald Rumsfeld’s memorable phrase, there are far too many “known unknowns” to come to firm conclusions just yet. Let’s just see how this plays out before rushing to judgment. In the meantime, a greater concern for India’s "Quad" partners in the IndoPacific continues to be its illiberal instincts and actions.

The latest example is the expulsion from Parliament of firebrand opposition lawmaker Mahua Moitra on dubious grounds and procedure. Worldly, wise, articulate and eloquent, she has been deadly effective at skewering the Modi government.

Fourth, Western countries need to introspect on the long term risks of harboring diaspora extremists.

Often, the animating spirit of immigrant activists is sectarian hatreds imported from their countries of origin. With little interest in or commitment to the values of their adopted countries — of reciprocal respect, tolerance and inclusion — they find Western countries convenient safe havens from which to carry on their homeland struggles. They therefore represent a threat to the social cohesion and foreign policy interests of the host countries.

Canada in particular needs to explain how a shady character like Nijjar acquired Canadian citizenship in the first place. Trudeau is fond of saying “diversity is our strength.” Not so fast, said most Canadians in a recent poll: Diversity can come with problems alongside benefits.

Recalling the genocidal chants of “Gas the Jews” and “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” would we quibble with India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar that freedom of speech does not extend to “incitement to violence”?

ISI, have successfully broken the backbone of the foreign-backed terrorists. Peace has been restored in Balochistan, Karachi and other vulnerable regions.

But, in the recent past, terrorist attacks particularly in Balochistan show that external spy agencies, especially RAW, want to damage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In this context, in November 2020 at a joint press conference and a joint press briefing, the then DG of ISPR MajorGeneral Babar Iftikhar and the ex-Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had unveiled a dossier containing “irrefutable evidence” of India’s sponsorship of terrorism in Pakistan.

It notable that the TTP is designated a global terrorist organisation by Pakistan, the USA and the United Nations.

So, Pakistan needs to develop a global or regional consensus in order to force the Taliban regime to abandon its patronage of the TTP which also presents a serious threat to Afghanistan’s own security and that of other regional countries.

At this critical juncture, Pakistan is facing multiple problems and crises internally and externally, which are increasing political and economic instability in the country.

From time to time, security forces, especially the Army, are contesting terrorists’ attacks in various regions of the country. Besides killing the militants, some Army soldiers are, also, being martyred in exchange of fire. So, Islamabad should not lose its patience with the Afghan Taliban’s inaction. Otherwise, the TTP which has connections with India and other anti-Pakistan terror outfits will further worsen Pak-Afghan ties.

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MIDDLE EAST EYE SANSOM MILTON

HIS year has been a turbulent and eventful one for the Middle East, marked by geopolitical shifts, escalating conflicts and tragic disasters. As we reflect upon the tumultuous events of 2023, it is crucial to consider what next year might hold for the Middle East.

Over the past year, major political developments, in particular the Saudi-Iranian deal and the normalisation of Assad's Syria, seemed to hold the potential to reshape the region, with reduced tensions and openings for resolving protracted conflicts. Yet 2023 also witnessed conflict escalation, with the outbreak of fighting in Sudan in April and Israel's barbaric campaign in Gaza from October. Moreover, a series of disasters, natural and man-made, in particular Libya's Derna dam collapse and earthquakes in Turkey, Syria and Morocco, brought huge civilian suffering and a combined death toll of over 53,000.

None of these major events were particularly foreseeable, yet they have been defining moments in the region in 2023. Despite the unpredictability of events, certain key trends have emerged, likely to significantly shape the Middle East as we move into 2024.

GAZA WILL LOOM LARGE Firstly, Israel's ongoing campaign of destruction in the Gaza Strip is poised to continue shaping the region's agenda into early 2024. Israel's national security adviser last week indicated that the operation could extend for months, suggesting a protracted, asymmetric conflict likely to further reduce the Strip to rubble. Even if a long-term ceasefire were to be reached soon, the fundamental issues surrounding Gaza, including security and governance, remain unresolved and will dominate regional discussions.

In particular, the issue of who bears the responsibility of rebuilding Gaza will loom large over policy discussions, as the Arab states and western donors that have previously funded reconstruction following multiple rounds of destruction will inevitably face a major dilemma in whether to do so once more. The repercussions of this campaign extend beyond immediate geopolitical consequences. As highlighted at the 2023 Doha Forum, Israel's actions, which amount to collective punishment and crimes against humanity, have ignited a wave of anger among the youth across the Middle East and beyond. This sentiment is not just a fleeting reaction, but rather one that is expected to resonate for years, possibly decades, influencing the sociopolitical landscape of the region. Whether in 2024 or in years to come, this demographic and political fault line will eventually contribute to the collapse of peace treaties between Israel and various Arab states, such as Egypt and Jordan, as authoritarian leaders struggle to remain in touch with popular sentiment, which is resolutely anti-normalisation.

CHANGING GEOPOLITICAL LANDSCAPE Secondly, the United Nations' role in the Middle East, particularly in 2023, has been marked by notable failures, casting doubt on its efficacy in the region. The UN's inability to deliver an effective response to the humanitarian crisis following the earthquake in northwest Syria, and its inaction during Israel's extensive campaign in the Gaza Strip, have highlighted these shortcomings.

These events have not only raised questions about the UN's capacity to manage regional conflicts but also its relevance in the changing geopolitical

landscape. In response to these challenges, 2024 may witness the first tentative steps towards regional cooperation in conflict prevention and post-conflict reconstruction. With global governance mechanisms faltering, Middle Eastern countries are increasingly recognising the need for regionally rooted solutions.

This shift is facilitated by the gradual thawing of regional tensions, allowing for collaborative, regionally coordinated approaches to emerge that draw on cultural familiarity and geographical proximity, thus offering a workable alternative to external interventions. However, such regional solutions must overcome the challenges of political divergences and historical rivalries, which require new platforms for regular dialogue and cooperation. Thirdly, the economic landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region in 2024 is set to be heavily influenced by the adverse spillover effects of the Gaza crisis.

The International Monetary Fund has already downgraded its 2024 economic outlook for the Mena region, citing significant impacts on trade, investment confidence and tourism. This economic downturn is particularly acute in conflict- and crisis-affected countries such as Yemen, Syria and Sudan, which are not only struggling to resolve ongoing conflicts but are also grappling with rampant inflation and supply-chain disruptions.

These challenges risk further exacerbating the economic divide within the region, with these nations potentially getting left behind in the broader push for economic diversification and stability.

In this context, nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are making notable strides in shifting away from oil dependency, focusing on sectors such as technology, sports, tourism and renewable energy. However, the challenge for 2024 will be to navigate these economic headwinds while ensuring that diversification efforts are both inclusive and sustainable. The success of these strategies will be vital in determining the long-term economic resilience and growth of the Mena countries, especially as the global economy increasingly moves towards green energy and digital innovation.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS Finally, the imperative to prioritise disaster preparedness in the Middle East is more pressing than ever as we look towards 2024.

The past year has starkly highlighted the region's vulnerability, particularly with the devastating earthquakes in northern Syria, Turkey and Morocco, and the catastrophic floods in Libya. These disasters have not only caused immense humanitarian and socioeconomic harm, but have also laid bare the region's lack of preparedness for such calamities.

The scale of destruction experienced in 2023 serves as a crucial wake-up call. It underscored the need for Arab states to significantly invest in disaster preparedness, including the development of robust infrastructure, enhanced early warning systems and effective emergency response mechanisms.

As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, the likelihood of such natural hazards increases, making it imperative for the region to adopt comprehensive strategies for disaster mitigation.

While global attention often shifts to geopolitical conflicts, such as the recent escalation in Gaza, the importance of disaster preparedness must not be overshadowed. The Mena region's capacity to anticipate, respond to, and recover from major disasters is a key determinant of its future resilience and stability.

As we move into 2024, placing disaster preparedness high on the regional agenda is essential, ensuring that the difficult lessons of the past year translate into actionable and sustainable strategies for the future.

Sansom Milton is a Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies in Doha, Qatar. He is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. He was previously a Research Fellow at the University of York in the UK.

06 NEWS

NO PEACE UNTIL HAMAS CHIEFS ARE DESTROYED, VOWS NETANYAHU

I

TEL AVIV

AGENCIES

SRAEL bombed Gaza on Tuesday after its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed there won’t be peace until Hamas’s rulers are destroyed and Palestinian society is “deradicalized.”

The army said it had struck more than 100 targets in 24 hours, including military sites and tunnel shafts in central Jabalia and Khan Yunis in the south, as heavy ground combat continued.

The withering military campaign launched after the Hamas attacks of October 7 has caused mass civilian casualties and widespread hunger, reducing much of the coastal territory to rubble.

The UN World Health Organization reported “harrowing” accounts of entire families killed during Christmas Eve strikes on the Al-Maghazi refugee camp in the central area of the Gaza Strip.

Global concern has mounted and international calls for a ceasefire have multiplied but Netanyahu vowed to stay the course in an op-ed published in the Wall Street Journal late Monday.

“Hamas must be destroyed, Gaza must be demilitarized and Palestinian so-

ciety must be deradicalized,” he argued.

“These are the three prerequisites for peace between Israel and its Palestinian neighbors in Gaza.”

Once the fighting ends, he said, “for the foreseeable future Israel will have to retain overriding security responsibility over Gaza” and build a “temporary security zone on the perimeter” of the territory.

Netanyahu had earlier visited Israeli troops inside Gaza, then reportedly told a meeting of his conservative Likud party

Pakistan deported Afghans waiting for US resettlement WASHINGTON REUTERS

Pakistan’s huge deportation drive has forcibly repatriated scores of Afghans awaiting resettlement in the United States, an advocacy group and Afghan applicants say, adding that Pakistani authorities often ignored US embassy letters of protection.

That complicates the efforts of such Afghans, as the US has shuttered its embassy in Kabul and they must also grapple with human rights restrictions and stubborn financial and humanitarian crises in their homeland.

Islamabad began expelling more than a million undocumented foreigners, mostly Afghans, on Nov. 1, amid a row over accusations that Kabul harbours Pakistani militants, a charge the ruling Taliban deny.

More than 450,000 Afghans have returned home, the United Nations says, many now living in difficult winter conditions near the border.

At least 130 Afghans being processed for US special immigration visas or refugee resettlement in the United States have been deported, said Shawn VanDiver, president of #AfghanEvac, the main coalition of groups helping such efforts.

He cited data from coalition members and details provided to the US government by its Islamabad embassy, which he has seen. Pakistani police have arrested more than 230 such Afghans, although about 80 have since been released, he added.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior US State Department official said the United States had “no formal way to track these kinds of cases”, adding that the number of Afghans deported while awaiting US resettlement was “very small”.

Pakistan’s foreign and interior ministries did not respond to requests for comment. As the clock ticked down to Nov. 1, the US embassy e-mailed protection letters to some 25,000 Afghans to prove to authorities they were being processed for resettlement in the United States, after its last troops left Kabul in 2021.

A US State Department spokesperson said Washington had also supplied Pakistan with a list of Afghans “in the US resettlement pipelines” after it unveiled the deportation plan in October.

VanDiver and two Western diplomatic sources, who requested anonymity to discuss the issue, said local authorities had ignored the letters in many instances.

“The letters matter in some cases and not in others,” said VanDiver. “Not all local officers are abiding by it.” The senior State Department official said the United States has examples of police respecting the letters, but gave no details.

that “we’re not stopping… We’re intensifying the fighting in the coming days.”

The bloodiest ever Gaza conflict erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

They took 250 hostages, of whom 129 remain inside Gaza. Israel launched extensive aerial bombardment and a siege followed by a ground invasion. The campaign has killed 20,674 people, mostly

women and children, according to Hamas-run Gaza’s health ministry.

‘Great destruction’ The Israeli army published footage showing its troops moving through the muddy war zone of shattered buildings as gunfire rings out, tanks churning up dust and a soldier firing a heavy machine gun from a window. The army says 158 Israeli soldiers have been killed inside Gaza.

AFPTV images from Gaza City’s devastated and largely deserted Tal alHawa area showed dirt roads winding through mountains of rubble amid multistorey buildings pancaked by strikes or standing askew. “By God, the destruction is very great and all the owners of the place have been displaced to the south,” says one Palestinian man. “May God help people through the misfortunes they are in.” Video footage from inside the city’s Al-Quds Hospital showed an empty ward with a hole blasted into a wall, broken window glass strewn across the floor and medical equipment covered in a layer of dust. Some residents of AlMaghazi refugee camp returned to the ruins of their homes after strikes that Gaza’s health ministry said killed at least 70 people. Reporters were unable to independently verify that toll.

Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, a historical symbol of love and bravery for country, people SHARJEEL INAM MEMON

It has been 16 years since Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto left us, but the pain of her tragic death remains fresh. Reflecting on this great tragedy, the soul still trembles today, as terrorists attacked and brutally martyred her in Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi, on December 27, 2007. This tragic event not only shocked the people of Pakistan but also democratic forces worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy of grief, sorrow, and sadness transmitted from generation to generation.

Even today, people often ask the question: when the martyr Ms. Benazir Bhutto knew in advance that her life was in danger, why did she return to her homeland after ending her 8-year exile? The answer to this question is that Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto was not only aware of the danger but also believed that some national and international forces had conspired and planned to kill her.

Not only had foreign governments informed him about this plan, but she herself had also briefed some world leaders and media representatives about it. She had formally informed the then President General Pervez Musharraf about the project. Despite this, she returned home and personally answered this question.

In an interview, she expressed, "We are individuals who engage in discourse. We possess ideology and emotions. We know how to live and die. History is woven with the sacrifice of martyrs. The very fabric of history is crafted by the threads of revolution."

On October 18, 2007, as Shaheed Bibi was leaving Dubai, numerous individuals cautioned her against returning to her homeland due to the imminent threat to her life. However, she persistently reiterated, "I will not abandon my people.

We live and die alongside them."

When she landed at Karachi Airport on the same day, there was a cheering sea of people welcoming her. It was a historic day when the people of Pakistan decided they wanted a peaceful, developed, and democratic Pakistan under the leadership of Mrs. Benazir Bhutto.

In October 2007, a revolution unfolded in Pakistan. Anti-democratic and anti-people forces utilized the power of gunpowder to suppress people's power. By targeting Ms. Benazir Bhutto through terrorists, they demonstrated their intent to physically sever Shaheed Bibi from the people at any cost and ruthlessly implement their plan.

About 200 democrats were martyred, and hundreds were injured in this terrorist incident. Ms. Benazir Bhutto was spared in this incident, but the pages of her unpublished book, "Reconciliation," were stained with the blood of the martyrs.

In this book, a solution was provided to eradicate terrorism worldwide, including Pakistan, and to establish a peaceful global society. The aim is to foster democracy globally and eliminate the gap between the rich and the poor. This will only be possible when the path of reconciliation is embraced everywhere, replacing conflict.

This implies that Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto arrived in Pakistan on October 18, 2007, with a significant mission as a world leader. The fulfillment of this mission was only possible if she lived among the people of Pakistan and initiated the struggle.

The initial step of her mission was to reinstate democracy in Pakistan. Following that, terrorism was to be eradicated by uniting the democratic and peace-loving forces globally, and poverty should be eliminated by fostering a conducive environment for democratic and political processes worldwide. Completing this mission was not feasible by remaining distant from the people.

Following the tragedy that occurred in Karachi on October 18, 2007, party leaders and other well-wishers advised the late Ms. Benazir Bhutto to leave Pakistan again and conduct her campaign from abroad.

After the tragedy on October 19, 2007, when she conducted a press conference at Bilawal House in Karachi, a journalist asked her whether, despite the events of October 18, she would continue running a public relations campaign for the elections.

To this, she replied without any pause, "Those people also want me not to run an election campaign and go back. They wish for real democracy not to be restored in Pakistan. However, if democracy is not restored, the dangers for Pakistan will increase. I will stay with my people."

Then the world witnessed Shaheed Bibi initiating a public relations campaign once again. In every meeting, she used to declare, "I have risked my life for democracy in Pakistan."

After the October tragedy, he added more to his book "Reconciliation" and wrote in one place, "I suffered the punishment of my father's arrest, imprisonment, and murder, and I knew that such wounds of the soul never heal. I was ready to do anything to spare my children from the pain I endured at my father's death. However, this was the only thing I could not do."

From these words of Mrs. Benazir Bhutto, it is not difficult to infer that she loved her children dearly and did not want to subject them to the shock of her death.

Yet, she consciously accepted her death. During the election campaign, she once visited the shrine of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh and sat there alone for several hours, closing all the doors of the shrine.

On that very day, people realized that Shaheed Bibi was certain about her death. Despite this, she resumed the election campaign. Even during this period, people continued advising her not to attend meetings.

But she used to respond that if I do that, the dangers for Pakistan will increase and hen, that happened. On December 27, 2007, she was martyred in public.

Today, if there is democracy in Pakistan, it is the result of the sacrifice of Shaheed Bibi. Shaheed Bibi is a metaphor of bravery and courage in history.

Shaheed Bibi is a metaphor of love for her country and her people.

The enduring bond she established with her land and people through her sacrifice will remain forever. We all owe it to the blood of Shaheed Bibi to continue her mission of restoring true democracy in Pakistan.

Wednesday, 27 December, 2023 | KARACHI

China unveils countermeasures against US entity, individuals over Xinjiang BEIJING

STAFF REPORT

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday announced countermeasures against U.S. intelligence and data company Kharon and two individuals over Xinjiang.

Kharon provided a “basis” for illegal U.S. sanctions on Xinjiang and that the company’s Director of Investigations Edmund Xu and Nicole Morgret, a U.S. human rights analyst and former researcher at the Center for Advanced Defense Studies, were denied entry into China, including the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told the media at a daily briefing on Tuesday.

All assets of Kharon and the duo in China will be frozen, and they’re banned from engaging in transactions, cooperation and other activities with organizations and individuals within the territory of China, Mao added.

The move came after the U.S. added two Chinese officials and three companies to its sanctions list over alleged links to human rights abuses against Uygur and other ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Mao told reporters that the Chinese side expressed strong opposition and has lodged solemn representation to the U.S. over its action while condemning it as yet another serious interference in China’s internal affairs and a gross violation of international law and basic norms of international relations.

The U.S. move also “tarnishes China’s image and seriously damages the legitimate rights and interests of relevant Chinese officials and enterprises,” Mao said, urging the U.S. to revoke its illegal unilateral sanctions and stop implementing the so-called Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and other erroneous bills.

“If the U.S. is bent on moving ahead, China is ready to make a due response,” said Mao. Phase-II of China’s space environment monitoring project enters trial operation The second phase of China’s ground-based space environment monitoring network, the Meridian Project, has entered the stage of joint debugging and trial operation.

The phase II project comprises 16 stations, 58 observation points and 195 sets of space weather monitoring equipment. Together with the first phase, it will make the Meridian Project the world’s largest comprehensive space environment monitoring network and provide data support for improving the precision of space weather forecasts.

“The second phase of the Meridian Project is currently in a stage of comprehensive debugging, joint testing and trial operation. We will make every effort to complete state acceptance next year and put it into operation,” said Wang Chi, an academic at the Chinese Academy of Sciences who serves as the commander-in-chief of the phase II project.

Blast near Israeli embassy in New Delhi, all staff unharmed NEW DELHI

AGENCIES

Indian police were investigating reports of a blast near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi on Tuesday that did not cause any casualties.

Officers cordoned off the embassy as they combed through the surrounding areas following the report of the late afternoon blast. Officials were still inspecting the area but it was reopened to the general public.

There was no information suggesting anyone on the street had been hurt.

Israel’s foreign ministry in a statement reported “an explosion” near the embassy.

“We can confirm that around 5:20 there was a blast at close proximity to the embassy,” Israeli Embassy spokesperson Guy Nir told Reuters. “This evening… an explosion occurred in close proximity to the embassy,” Ohad Nakash Kaynar, Israel’s deputy head of mission in New Delhi said in a statement.

“All our workers are safe, all our diplomats are safe.

Our security teams are working in full cooperation with the local Delhi security, and they will investigate the matter further.” Teju Chitri, a security guard working at a nearby government languages training institute, told the Press Trust of India news agency that he heard the explosion, which took place in a tightly controlled neighbourhood home to government buildings and diplomatic missions.

“I heard a blast … I came outside and saw smoke coming out from near a tree,” Chitri said.

Nothing was found in the search operation three hours after the blast, an official involved in the investigation told Reuters.

Wednesday, 27 December, 2023 | KARACHI

CORPORATE CORNER smartNet announces fiber lease deal in collaboration with one Network and cybernet

ISLAMABAD: SmartNet Private Limited, the technology arm of Capital Smart City and a key entity in the HRL Group of Companies is pleased to announce a groundbreaking Fiber Lease Agreement in collaboration with One Network and Cybernet.

This partnership enables SmartNet to deliver terabytes of data every second to Capital Smart City, Lahore Smart City, and affiliated projects on motorways. The high-speed connectivity strengthens Capital Smart City's position as a technological leader, enhancing capabilities in IoT, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and advanced technologies.In addition to supporting Silicon Valley connectivity and motorway projects, SmartNet aims to contribute significantly to Digital Pakistan, promoting technology exports. The establishment of an incubation center demonstrates a commitment to fostering innovation and technological entrepreneurship. PR

Leading Pack: oPPo A78 sets standard for style and power – Pre-orders now open

LAHORE: Brace yourselves as OPPO announces the much-anticipated launch of the OPPO A78 in Pakistan, promising a device that redefines smartphone excellence. With a sleek Ultra-Slim Retro Design, 67W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge, 90Hz FHD+ AMOLED Display, and Dual Stereo Speakers, the A78 is set to lead the pack in its category.Lightning-Fast Charging, Long-Lasting BatteryThe A78 boasts the lightning-fast 67W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge and a 5000mAh battery, providing one of the fastest charging speeds in its price range. The battery is optimized for longevity, offering up to 1,600 charge and discharge cycles, ensuring a seamless performance for up to four years.Immersive Audio-Visual ExperienceFor the first time in the A series, the A78 features a 90Hz FHD+ AMOLED screen, delivering a visually stunning experience. The Dual Stereo Speakers and Real HD Sound 3.0 provide crystalclear surround sound, making it a treat for entertainment enthusiasts.. PR

oGDcL installs water filtration plant in Gorsian Village of Gujjar Khan Tehsil

ISLAMABAD: The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan's premier Exploration and Production (E&P) company in the petroleum sector, inaugurated a Reverse Osmosis Plant in village Gorsian of Tehsil Gujjar Khan, Rawalpindi district to ensure the provision of clean drinking water for the local community.As the major contributor to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Pakistan's corporate sector, OGDCL remains committed to transforming the lives of communities residing in and around its operational areas. With a strong emphasis on the well-being of the people, OGDCL's CSR initiatives continue to play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs of the communities it serves.The inauguration ceremony, organized by OGDCL's CSR department, was attended by local political figures and a large number of local residents. The local community appreciated OGDCL's initiative, recognizing the company's commitment to social responsibility and its role in enhancing the quality of life in the area. PR

Policy dialogue illuminates crucial role of regulatory bodies in cooperative education

ISLAMABAD: In a landmark gathering convened at the Riphah Institute of Public Policy, Islamabad, a Policy Dialogue on the Role of Regulatory Bodies in Cooperative Education unfolded, underscoring the pivotal significance of regulatory frameworks in shaping Pakistan's educational landscape.

Distinguished luminaries and key stakeholders representing diverse sectors graced the event, fostering an enriching discourse on the subject matter. Chairman National Technology Council, Mr. Imtiaz H Gilani; Senior Vice President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Faad Waheed; Chairman of the National Agriculture Education Accreditation Council, Dr. Fayyaz Ul Hasan; Program Director of the National Business Education Accreditation Council, Mr. Ahtesham Ali Raja; President of the National Council for Tibb, Hk. M Ahmad Saleem. PR

BASHIR RIAZ

The evening of 27th December, 2007 was filled with harrowing sorrow. I was lost in thought when a phone call pierced through the silence. Amir Mir informed me that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was seriously wounded in a bomb blast while coming out of a jalsa in Rawalpindi and she was being taken to a hospital. It felt as if my whole world came crashing down around me.

In November, Shaheed Bibi had invited journalists to a dinner. After the dinner, she told Amir Mir that if anything were to happen to her then he could mention General Musharraf.

After a while, Amir Mir broke the news to me that Bibi was martyred in the suicide attack. I was devastated and the earth felt like slipping away from under my feet. People were angry everywhere and started burning public property to express their distress.

In such volatile circumstances, going to Larkana was like inviting death. I couldn’t decide whether to go to Islamabad or

07

OIL EDGES UP AS INVESTORS EYE MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS AND US RATE CUT NEWS

O

PROFIT

REUTERS

IL edged higher on Tuesday, finding support from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and investor optimism that the U.S. Federal Reserve would soon start cutting interest rates, boosting global economic growth and fuel demand.

While hopes of rate cuts and conflict in the Red Sea have led to a rebound in crude prices, Maersk’s announcement of a restart of shipping routes through the waterway has alleviated supply concerns to a certain extent, said CMC Market analyst Leon Li. Brent crude futures rose 18 cents, or 0.2%, to $79.25 a barrel by 1208 GMT while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was up 3 cents at $73.59.

“The lack of oil supply disruptions is offsetting the support to prices from ongoing geopolitical tensions in

the Middle East,” said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo, adding that trade was thin and in a narrow range typical of holiday periods.

Volume is light because some markets are closed for public holidays.

Both oil benchmarks registered gains of about 3% last week after Houthi attacks on ships disrupted global shipping and trade while the Israel-Hamas conflict shows no sign of easing.

chief of Naval staff attends Indian ocean Naval symposium in Bangkok ISLAMABAD PR

Chief of the Naval staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf visited Thailand to attend eighth Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs at Bangkok. The event involved panel discussions on issues related to cooperation in maritime security of Indian Ocean and Blue Economy- ways forward for sustainable development of IONS members.

During IONS Conclave of Chiefs bilateral meetings between Chief of the Naval Staff and naval leadership of IONS member states were also held. CNS called on Commander of Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, C-in-C of Royal Thai Navy, Deputy C-in-C of Russian Navy, Commander of Royal Navy of Oman, CNS of French Navy, Commander of Iranian Navy, Fleet Commander of Royal Navy, UK and Vice Chief of Japan Maritime Self Defence Force and discussed

matters of mutual interest. Admiral Naveed Ashraf focused on PN contributions to regional maritime security and emphasized on collaboration between the regional navies to enhance maritime security of the region. He also stressed upon greater collaboration between Indian Ocean countries to exploit potentials of blue economy.

cDA arranges christmas celebrations for all christian employees

ISLAMABAD: The administration of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) arranged Christmas Celebrations for all Christian employees who are working in the institution as well as for the residents of the city. Christmas Celebrations were held on Tuesday 26th December, 2023 at Open Air Theatre Shakirparian, Islamabad like every year. Christian employees of the Authority were attended the celebrations along with their families. Special entertainment items for children were also persented.

The purpose of organizing this event was to participate in the happiness of Christian employees and to encourage them.It should be noted that the CDA administration has already been approved Christmas allowance and advance salary for all Christian employees working in the institution on the occasion of Christmas. In this regard, non-gazetted employees have been paid full basic salary while gazetted employees have been given half basic salary as bonus payments. Similarly, allowance payments were also made to the regular and daily wages employees as per the regular pay scales.On this occasion, the Christian community said that this will surely increase the happiness of the Christian employees of CDA and they will be able to celebrate their religious festival in a better way in this era of inflation. PR

FGeHA postpones auction of class-III commercial plots, a fuel station

The Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) announces the postponement of the Auction event for Class-III Commercial Plots in Sector G-13 & G-14 and a Fuel Station Plot in the Mauve Area, Sector G-14/4, Islamabad.

It is worth to mention that for the said auction a media campaign was also launched in leading newspapers of Pakistan and auction was scheduled on 27th and 28th December 2023.

The decision to postpone the auction has been made in consideration of unforeseen circumstances. The new date for the auction will be announced in due course, providing ample time for interested parties to prepare for this significant opportunity. PR

Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) is an initiative to formalise a regional maritime collaborative forum. Pakistan formally became member of IONS in 2014. PN proactively participates in IONS as it provides a platform to the participating nations to work together for regional peace and maritime security through a collaborative approach.

TPL Properties to list its REIT Fund I on PSX

KU conference calls for promotion of interfaith harmony in country

The Department of International Relations of the University of Karachi in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony organized a national conference on “bridging beliefs: interfaith harmony in Pakistan”, at the KU Chinese Teachers Memorial Auditorium on Tuesday.The national conference calls to promote the interfaith harmony culture in the country, and emphasized the importance of interfaith harmony, tolerance, love, dialogue, acceptance, and respect for all religions and faiths.The speakers urged that it would play a key part in developing a society that will not allow intolerance at any level. They shared that diversity is beauty and we need to find unity in this diversity.

They mentioned that respect, acceptance, and tolerance are the way forward for Pakistan. PR

sindh governor visits residence of DGPR to condole death of his mother-in-law

PROFIT

NEWS DESK

The Board of Directors of the TPL REIT Management Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of TPL Properties, on Tuesday granted its approval to list TPL REIT Fund I on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). According to a notice sent to PSX by TPL Properties, the fund will be offered to the public through a fixed-price listing where existing unit-holders will sell their units at a price determined by TPL REIT Management Company Limited (TPL RMC), the manager of the fund. TPL REIT Fund I has a net asset value of PKR 28.99 billion. However, the listing process will follow the regulations of the Securities Act, 2015 and the PSX Regulations, and will require the consent of the anchor investors and the regulators. The fund will also disclose the material information as required by the law.

Iesco says gang stealing transformers, cables and other equipments

ISLAMABAD: According to IESCO spokesperson, a group of thieves is active in different areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, which is stealing electricity transformers, underground cables and other equipment, due to which not only the consumers of electricity have to face long-term power outages, but the company is also facing financial losses IESCO management and concerned SDOs have lodged applications against these elements in the respective police stations and apart from this various teams of IESCO are also active in the field to catch these thieves and hand them over to the law enforcement agencies. IESCO management requests the respected customers to support IESCO by fulfilling their moral and national responsibility and if any unauthorized or suspicious person is seen near the electrical installations, immediately report it to the concerned SDO offices, IESCO Help. Line No. 118 or Central Complaint and Monitoring Cell Islamabad phone numbers 0519252933-34. PR

Custodians of a legacy

Larkana. Eventually, the next day, I decided to go to Larkana. Along the way, we saw torched vehicles and felt the country was in mourning. When we arrived in Garhi Khuda Bux, the burial had taken place already and there was a sea of grief-stricken faces around us.

When we reached Nodairo, we found out that Asif Ali Zardari was not there. He called while we wee traveling back and we tried to do condolence but I could not find any words as my mind felt numb due to a huge sense of loss. Her struggles and achievements flashed across my mind. She was the first woman Prime Minister of the Muslim World. She fought courageously against dictatorship. She was a leader recognised internationally for her political acumen. Programmes have been introduced in universities to honour her legacy.

Shipping companies had stopped sending vessels through the Red Sea and imposed surcharges for rerouting ships. The Red Sea connects with the Suez Canal, a major shipping route used for about 12% of global trade.

Maersk’s statement on Sunday cited deployment of a US-led military operation designed to ensure the safety of commerce in the area. Germany’s HapagLloyd will decide on Wednesday how it will proceed with its Red Sea routes after suspending shipments there, a spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Two explosions in the Red Sea were reported by a vessel sailing off the coast of Yemen on Tuesday shortly after two unmanned aircraft were sighted, a British maritime authority said.

Oil also found support from expectations that the Fed wil cut interest rates next year. Lower interest rates cut consumer borrowing costs, which can boost economic growth and oil demand.

In 1999, a conference was organised for women and during that time, she invited me to join her in Portugal. At the conference there, she spoke about political and social role of women and everyone applauded her talk. She took out the time to answer all the questions and mingled with the participants who were all eager to meet her.

Apart from Europe, the Arab World also gave Shaheed Bibi immense respect, and she was known as the Daughter of Islam. Shaheed BB was a leader who represented a democratic and progressive Pakistan on the international level. She was the first woman Prime Minister of the Muslim World. She fought against the tyrannical rule of dictators who actively tried to oppress her and the workers of Pakistan People’s Party. However, Shaheed BB always stood side-by-side along with her people not only during her

KARACHI: Governor Sindh, Mr. Karman Khan Tessori visited the residence of Director General (Public Relations), Sindh and the Press Secretary to Governor Sindh, Muhammad Saleem Khan to offer condolence on the sad demise of his Mother-inLaw, who died the other day. While expressing his condolence to the family members, Governor Sindh said that we all belongs to Allah and have to returns to our creator. He prayed Almighty Allah to rest her departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage and fortitude to bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. PR

BIsP receives 5,372 applications for ‘BIsP saving scheme’ so far

ISLAMABAD: The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has recently launched its 'Savings Scheme' with the primary goal of instilling financial independence and promoting a savings culture among consumers enrolled in the scheme.Under BISP Saving Scheme 5,372 applications have been received to date. Following the application submission, a 'Registration' process will be initiated, and upon successful completion of this stage applicants will become eligible for the 'Savings Scheme.'This initiative aims to provide a financial buffer for unexpected expenses and emergencies. Eligibility for the scheme is extended to needy families of BISP whose poverty score is up to 40 PMT not having regular employment. A substantial number of applications have been received from various regions, including 3,416 from Punjab province, 1,135 from Sindh province, 397 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 176 from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, 117 from Balochistan, 79 from Gilgit Baltistan, and 52 from Islamabad. These applications have been submitted through the web portal provided by BISP. PR

life but also in death.

Shaheed Bibi simultaneously fought on several fronts. She was a mother as well as a father to her children. Despite personal engagements, she managed to take out time for party work and kept an eye on the global politics. She used to work on her computer for 5 hours every day, writing articles and publishing her statements on various matters.

A beautiful aspect of Shaheed Bibi’s personality was that she had a generous soul and cared for the poor. She used to feel the pain of others just like her own. When she became the Prime Minister, she helped numerous families. She always supported her party workers when in need as well. She had a special fund that she utilised to help people associated with journalism and literature. Once, she gave a tip of Rs. 100,000 to the caretaker of Pak Tea House, bringing joy to his household. She helped scores of people through me. She gave employment opportunities to several people. A lot of people benefited from her generosity. Even

today, the less fortunate ones remember the kindness of Shaheed Bibi and keep her in their prayers.

After Shahadat, the entire World recognised Bibi as a great leader. Just like her parents, Shaheed BB had a lot of charisma. I witnessed all her traits and her personality first hand as I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to accompany her everywhere. For this reason, she referred to me as her shadow. She was very kind to me, and the trust she bestowed upon me is invaluable and an asset for me.

In her life, she shone like a bright star in the hearts of the people, and in her death, the glow of the star continues to guide her people in the direction of democracy and peace.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Bakhtawar, and Asifa are the custodians of her legacy. I am confident that they will follow in the footsteps of their mother and will carry forward her mission of serving the people.

THE WRITER IS THE FORMER PRESSSECRETARY TO BENAZIR BHUTTO

Wednesday, 27 December, 2023

PM FOR PRIORITIZING CLIMATE RESILIENCE FINANCE ASPECTS IN BALOCHISTAN HYDRO PROJECTS NEWS

C

ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has stressed prioritizing climate resilience and climate finance aspects in hydro projects of Balochistan and reiterated government’s commitment for leaving no stone unturned for progress and prosperity of the people of province.

He was chairing a meeting to review important matter relating to Balochistan province. The meeting was attended by Caretaker Chief Minister Ali Mardan Domki, Balochistan Education Minister Dr Qadir Baloch, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir, Caretaker Federal Minister for Planning Sami Saeed, Federal Minister for Law and Water Resources Irfan Aslam and other relevant senior officials, said press release issued by PM Office Media Wing.

On the occasion, the Balochistan Chief Secretary briefed participants of

the meeting about different projects of the province.

The caretaker PM directed for expediting the matters related to the construction of two-lane highway from Khuzdar to Karachi, observing that with its construction, the different parts of the country would get an alternate leeway, besides strengthening of the linkages.

He also asked for an immediate resolution of the financial issues faced by the universities in the province.

The caretaker prime minister directed for constitution of inter-provincial committee with regard to matters of Kachhi Canal project and the inclusion of caretaker minister for planning and caretaker chief ministers of Punjab and Balochistan provinces as its members.

The committee would be tasked to finalize proposals about the restoration and expansion of the canal. A directive was also issued for the construction of check dams to utilize water from the hilly rivulets and streams and protection of Kachhi Canal and Pet Feeder from the

Pakistan govt to outsource eight airports, Senate told ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Tuesday said Pakistan was committed to taking its relationship with China to new heights of cooperation and solidarity. PM Kakar expressed these views as the country’s ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi called on him here at the PM’s Office.

The prime minister expressed confidence that Ambassador Hashmi, who recently assumed his responsibilities in Beijing, would play his role in further strengthening ties between Pakistan and China. STAFF REPORT

hilly torrents.

PM Kakar ordered for formulation of a comprehensive mechanism over registration and fitness of vehicles in the province in collaboration with the National Highways and Motorways Police and National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

The meeting was apprised that for holding of free and fair elections in the province, the caretaker provincial government was taking all possible steps and in

The Pakistan government has decided to outsource eight airports phase-wise, Advisor to PM on Aviation Farhat Hussain Shah told the Senate on Tuesday.

Shah in his statement before the Senate stated that Pakistan earlier announced to outsource Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi airports, but now has decided to outsource eight airports. The aviation advisor said the outsourcing will be done phase-wise through open bidding. Earlier, the Aircraft Owners and Operators Association of Pakistan (PAOOA) opposed the coalition government’s “unilateral” decision to outsource the country’s top airports without following the PPRA rules.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) had approved the draft Transaction Advisory Agreement reached with the International Finance Corporation for outsourcing of three airports.

The ECC was informed that the outsourcing of three airports has been initiated within the scope of the Public-Private Partnership Act-2017 to engage private investors through a competitive and transparent process to run the airports, develop appertaining land assets and enhance avenues for commercial activities and garner full revenue potential.

PTI’s ex MNA Jamil Ahmed joins PML-N

ISLAMABAD

Baloch protesters demanding an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in their province on Tuesday complained of their Islamabad sit-in being subjected to alleged harassment from unknown individuals despite the presence of the capital city police.

The accusations were levelled by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), organiser of the Baloch long march in Islamabad, and several figureheads associated with the movement.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, the BYC said “masked persons” had arrived and fled with a speaker on a white Toyota Vigo, terming the incident a “shameful act of Islamabad administration

and the state”.

“The Islamabad police and the state should stop harassing peaceful Baloch protesters,” the BYC said.

In a later post, it said “at 3:15am our sound system was stolen by the ‘unknown people in civil dress’ despite the presence of multiple police and surveillance cameras.”

The BYC questioned the alleged lack of a police response to the issue and questioned how the individuals had “fled easily”.

Dr Mahrang Baloch, one of the long march organisers, also made the same allegations. The footage shared by her showed Islamabad police personnel present at the scene.

Another organiser, Sammi Deen Baloch, said much the same.

Mahrang later said while speaking to the media that when the police were asked to stop the

LAHORE

KARACHI

Former MNA of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Capt (Retd) Jamil Ahmed has joined Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). He made the announcement while addressing a press conference along with PMLN leader Nehal Hashmi in Karachi on Tuesday.

Chairman Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) Mehran Ali Shah, Habibullah Memon and others also announced to join PML-N on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Nehal Hashmi said that those ruling Sindh for last 15 years have given nothing to Malir expect devastation and kept masses deprived of basic facilities.

He said that people of Malir always elected PPP but will be now they will be liberated of vandalizers.

Nehal Hashmi said that the PML-N will get victorious from Malir in upcoming election and would change the destiny of people.

Qureshi detained under 3-MPO in Adiala Jail for 15 days ISLAMABAD

Vice Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Shah Mahmood Qureshi who set to be released from Adiala Jail on Tuesday was detained for a period of 15 days in the jail under 3-MPO. The Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner issued directives for the detention, stating Qureshi’s release may “pose a threat to peace and security.”

It mentioned that the CPO had proposed a 45-day detention period on the recommendation of the relevant station house officer (SHO). The district intelligence committee also concurred with the assessments of the police and security authorities.

While granting Qureshi the right to appeal, the order detained Qureshi in the Adiala Jail for 15 days.

The development comes days after the Supreme Court granted bail to former prime minister Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case.

However, both leaders were not released immediately due to their involvement in other ongoing cases.

individuals, personnel of the force replied that the matter was not in their domain.

Mahrang alleged that the police were facilitating the individuals. “This is the limit and what the Islamabad administration is doing … they were facilitators of that attempt,” she added.

Lawyer and human rights activist Jibran Nasir condemned the alleged incident, saying that “it is a moment of shame and sadness to see our ‘guardians’ using such crude tactics.”

The Islamabad police has yet to publicly comment on the matter.

Meanwhile, PML-N Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed said he visited the sit-in camp and it was a “painful, heart-wrenching experience with so many families still searching for their missing loved ones!”

Punjab election chief seeks CS, IG’s help to conduct transparent elections STAFF REPORT

STAFF REPORT

this regard, all the directives of the Election Commission of Pakistan were being implemented. The meeting was also apprised of the mechanism for enhancing the tax and non-tax revenues in the province and it was added that the tax revenue collection system was being digitalized.

A briefing was also given over the steps taken for industry status to the mining sector. For the miners, a special Rescue 1122 center was established in District Quetta, it was added.

Baloch protesters allege harassment by unknown individuals amid police presence AGENCIES

STAFF REPORT

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan committed to strengthening ties with China: PM

As the deadline for the submission of nomination papers concludes, the Punjab Election Commissioner, Saeed Gul, has officially reached out to the provincial chief secretary and inspector general of police, underscoring the executive’s obligation to support the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in ensuring the conduct of free, fair, and transparent elections in the country.

In a written communication dispatched through a special messenger on Sunday, Gul expressed deep concern, stating that his office was inundated with numerous applications from almost every district of the province, coupled with media reports circulating that candidates, particularly those affiliated with the Pak-

istan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), were being mistreated by the police personnel.

This mistreatment is not confined to the periphery of the Returning Officers’ Offices but extended within the premises, involving the scrutiny and confiscation of their nomination papers.

“Such actions constitute a clear violation of electoral laws, especially the essence of Article 218(3) of the Constitution, as well as the directives of the Election Commission.”

He highlighted that his office had forwarded numerous complaints and applications to the respective offices and authorities concerned, urging immediate necessary action to control the situation.

Regrettably, “no such action has been taken thus far, and instances of misconduct persist”.

Benazir Bhutto stands as nation’s living movement, radiant torch: Bilawal LARKANA

STAFF REPORT

Chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday said the nation eloquently commemorates the indelible legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the first democratically elected woman prime minister of the Islamic world as well as esteemed leader of the world, saying that the “Daughter of the East” stands not only as a historical figure but as a living movement and a radiant torch.

Her nationalistic spirit, enduring struggle and steadfast leadership destined to be ingrained in the hearts and minds of the Pakistani nation, he said while sharing a reflective message on the occasion of 16th martyrdom anniversary of slain Chairperson of PPP Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to be celebrated on Wednesday.

He said that her mother remained ardently dedicated he life to the noble cause of transforming the

country into a genuine welfare state, guided by the visionary ideals of the nation’s founding leaders.

He said that throughout her life, BB Shaheed bound together Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan like a harmonious chain. “Her tragic assassination was a malevolent scheme, strategically targeting the momentum of advancement and the realization of Pakistan’s vision for enlightened moderation and a democratic society,” he added.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari pointed out that on the one hand, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, as the PPP chairperson, took the ideology of the Quaid-e-Awam and his party to new heights through her philosophy and unparalleled struggle, while as a political leader, she always represented the real populace by becoming the voice of the common man and the downtrodden classes of the country.

“On the other hand, as a prime minister, she strengthened the na-

tional defense by giving the gift of ballistic missile technology, protected the rights and took the farreaching measures by ensuring the welfare and development of country’s salaried class, farmers, workers, minorities, women, children and the elderly,” he added.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari assured the nation that the election manifesto to be presented by the PPP in the fast approaching general elections would resonate with the visionary aspirations and missions set forth by the Quaid-eAwam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.

Expressing unwavering dedication, he affirmed that his party staunchly upholds the cherished philosophy of its martyred leadership, saying, PPP is determined to make the dream of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto a reality, that Pakistan should be the model of excellence for the world as a prosperous, progressive, egalitarian and strong democratic federal state.

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR SUNRISE

ZUHR

ASR MAGHRIB ISHA

6:20

1:30

3:45

Two die as Parachinar bound bus comes under attack in Hangu 7:00

5:10

6:45

PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

A passenger bus travelling from Peshawar to Parachinar in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu came under attack by unidentified assailants, resulting in the death of two passengers and leaving four others injured. According to local police, the bus was en route to Parachinar when it was targeted by armed individuals within the jurisdiction of the City Police Station. As a consequence of the firing, two passengers lost their lives on the spot, while six sustained severe injuries. The wounded were promptly transferred to DHQ Hospital Hangu for immediate medical assistance.

District Police Officer (DPO) Nisar Ahmed Khan visited the hospital, expressed condolences, and said that a search operation to apprehend the perpetrators has been initiated. Hospital authorities report that the condition of the four injured passengers is critical.

Earlier this month, at least 10 people lost their lives and 25 others were injured when a passenger bus came under gunfire by unidentified men on Karakoram Highway in Chilas town, Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Diamer Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Arif Ahmad said the tragic incident occurred at 6:30pm in the Hudur area of Chilas when the bus came under fire and went on to collide with an oncoming truck.

No group had claimed responsibility for the attack and the motive for the shooting was not clear.

ANP fears losing electoral symbol in a ‘balancing act’ PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

Central Senior Vice President Awami National Party (ANP) Ameer Haider Khan Hoti on Tuesday expressed fears that snatching of his party’s electoral symbol was also being mulled over in a balancing act to prove another judgment right.

The ANP leader’s comments came after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) reserved its verdict on the party’s request for the grant of six months to conduct intra-party elections, risking the possibility of losing its polls symbol ‘lantern’.

The commission had earlier deemed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) intra-party polls “unconstitutional” and revoked its claim on the iconic electoral symbol.

“May Allah prove it wrong, but they might take a decision against the ANP to prove one judgment right,” Ameer Haider Hoti said in a speech, adding that this move was being attempted to be executed in a similar fashion as verdicts against Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif and Jahangir Khan Tareen were delivered.

Hoti said some secrets better be kept confidential as they wanted to forget them. However, he requested the concerned quarters that whatever the decision is taken it should be in accordance with the law and Constitution of the country.

“According to the law, the intra-party elections have to be held within five years and their five years for the polls will complete in May 2024,” he said.

The senior ANP leader said they would not forget if new wounds were inflicted.

On December 22, a five-member ECP bench, headed

by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, heard the case of ANP intra-party elections.

Statement on ‘bat’ symbol exposes Khattak-ECP ‘collusion’: Marwat PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senior Vice President Sher Fazl Marwat has demanded authorities take notice of Pervez Khattak’s recent statement whereby “he had claimed that ECP had offered him bat electoral symbol but he denied the offer.”

Marwat, speaking to the media outside the Peshawar High Court, asserted that only the Election Commission can assign party symbols and questioned Khattak’s motive for proposing an alternative emblem. “Why was there a need to offer the bat symbol?” Marwat asked, highlighting that Khattak had already formed his own party separate from PTI. “Pervez Khattak’s statement exposes the collusion between him and the Election Commission,” he further claimed, emphasizing that the cricket bat has been and will remain PTI’s sole symbol.

Marwat also addressed his own political future, revealing that PTI founder Imran Khan had nominated him to contest the NA-32 Peshawar election in the last party meeting. “I am ready to contest from NA-32 if the party decides,” he declared, but added that he is not opposed to other arrangements. “I am not stubborn and will accept whatever decision the party takes,” he assured. On the legal front, Marwat expressed confidence in PTI chairman Imran Khan’s eventual release on bail in all pending cases, including the cypher, Toshakhana, and Al-Qadir Trust matters.

‘Oct 23 Judgment’: SC registrar returns contempt plea against defence secretary ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Supreme Court Registrar’s Office on Tuesday refused to entertain a contempt petition filed by civil society members against the defence secretary for “deliberately and malafidely” violating the court’s October 23 judgment that had declared trials of civilians in military courts unconstitutional.

The SC registrar office returned the petition with objections, saying the judgment already stands as suspended and therefore, the contempt petition is not maintainable.

In a nine-page petition, the civil society members, through their counsel Faisal Siddiqi, argued that civilians arrested in connection with the May 9 and 10 riots should be tried under criminal courts, ending their illegal detention under military authorities.

The petition maintained that the apex court has been “disobeyed” by the “alleged contemnor” for violating its previous ruling “passed in constitutional petition Nos. 24 to 28, 30, and 35 of 2023″.

It further stated that Defence Secretary LtGen (r) Hamooduz Zaman Khan “deliberately” violated an order passed in October declaring

military trials of civilians under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952, as “unconstitutional”.

Moreover, the petition highlighted that the arrested accused have been under “unconstitutional detention” for the last 43 days.

The civil society members also stated that the defence secretary had failed to issue an order for the transfer of custody of the accused persons to the criminal court and demanded an end to the continuing detention by military authorities as “unconstitutional”, terming it a clear violation of court orders.

The petition requested immediate compliance with the previous order to uphold the

“majesty of law”.

A five-judge bench of the apex court on Oct 23 unanimously declared the trial of civilians in military courts as null and void and ordered that the 103 accused in cases relating to the violence on May 9 and 10, 2023 be tried under ordinary criminal laws.

The court through the 4-1 majority also declared certain clauses of the Army Act as ultra vires the Constitution and of no legal effect. One judge of the bench, reserved his verdict on one para, though siding with the bench on the remaining paras.

The bench, led by Justice Ijazul Ahsan

and including Justice Muneeb Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Mazahir Naqvi, and Justice Ayesha Malik heard the petitions that had challenged the trial of civilians allegedly involved in the May 9 violence in the military courts.

The petitions were filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan; chief justice (retd) Jawwad S.Khawaja; Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA); Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan; Karamat Ali; Zaman Khan Vardag; Junaid Razzaq; Hafeezullah Niazi; Lt Col (retd) Inam-ulRahiem and Naeemuddin Qureshi.

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot No 66-C, 1st Floor, 21st Commercial Street, Phase-II (Extension), DHA Karachi and printed at Ibn-e-Hassan Printing Press, Hockey Stadium, Karachi, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 021-35381208-9. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk