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Rs 15.00 | Vol XIV No 179 I 08 Pages I Karachi Edition

Thursday, 28 December, 2023 I 14 Jamada Al-Sani, 1445

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Police neither disclose case in which arrest was made, nor whereabouts of two-time ex-foreign minister

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We must not become a state where human rights and dignity are violated without fear: President

Qureshi’s daughter writes to ECP on her father’s ‘unlawful abduction’

STAFF REPORT

TI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi was manhandled and rearrested by police officials outside Adiala Jail on Wednesday upon his release following bail granted by the Supreme Court in the cypher case last week,. Qureshi was released from jail on bail after the Rawalpindi DC withdrew 3-MPO order issued yesterday for 15 days detention of the former foreign minister.

The police authorities are yet to clarify and comment regarding the case in which the PTI leader was taken into custody.

In a post on X, the PTI said that Qureshi was again arrested from outside the Adiala Jail after being released on bail in the cipher case. The party said that the order issued yesterday by the Rawalpindi DC had been withdrawn.

Footage shared by the party on Instagram showed Qureshi, clad in a cardigan and a shalwar kameez, attempting to speak to police personnel gathered outside the jail while he remained inside its premises. However, an official wearing the Punjab police uniform refused to listen and proceeded to shove Qureshi out the gate and toward an armoured police vehicle.

“Look at this. What is this?” Qureshi said as he was pushed the entire way to the van while the crowd yelled at officials to be careful. Qureshi said that police were making a mockery of the Supreme Court’s orders. “They are arresting me again in a false

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STAFF REPORT

case,” he said. “I represented the nation, I am innocent and I am being targeted for political revenge without any reason,” he said.

On Friday, the top court had granted bail to former prime minister Imran Khan and his close aide Qureshi in the cypher case against surety bonds of Rs1 million each. Qureshi’s daughter had said she expected her father would be released as his arrest was not required in any other case.

UNENDING ‘POLITICAL TRIBALISM’ Commenting on the arrest, senior politician, writer and journalist Mushahid Hussain Sayed posted on X (erstwhile twitter) a footage of TRT World, showing manhandling of former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi outside Adiala Jail.

Mushahid Hussain Sayed wrote on his official account: “While the world around Pakistan is being transformed, at home, the country remains mired in an unending ‘political tribalism’, with such shameful scenes not only making Pakistan an international laughing-stock, but also a pointer towards the country’s slow-motion descent into a lawless Republic of Fear! Having wasted the past 2 years in political squabbling, it’s time to pull back from the precipice as Pakistan in 2024 needs a new beginning & much-needed healing touch!”

Yesterday, Qureshi’s family had arrived at Adiala Jail to pay his surety bond but before they could obtain the robkar (release order), it emerged that Rawalpindi Deputy

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vice chairman, Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s daughter Mehr Bano Qureshi moved the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) against the ‘illegal arrest’ of her father.

As per details, the application filed in the ECP stated that former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was detained illegally and the way he was treated could affect the transparency of the general elections 2024. Mehr Bano Qureshi urged the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)

Commissioner (DC) Hassan Waqar Cheema had issued an order for the former foreign minister’s 15-day detention under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO).

However, a subsequent notification issued by the DC, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, said that the detention order had been withdrawn.

“The detenu shall be released from the jail forthwith, if he is not required to be detained in any other case,” it said.

‘DISGRACEFUL ARREST’ The PTI strongly condemned how Qureshi was arrested in a post on social media platform X.

IHC to capital police: Stop treating Baloch protesters like ‘enemies’ ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday asked the capital police to not treat the Baloch protesters as “enemies”.

Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb’s remarks came as he heard a petition filed last week challenging the protestors’ arrests and denying them the right to protest in Islamabad.

The hearing was attended by the senior superintendent of police (SSP) operations, the advocate general (AG) Islamabad and the lawyer representing the oragnisers of the protest, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).

Expressing his indignation, Justice Aurangzeb asked the SSP operations whether the order to treat the protestors ‘harshly’ was given by him. “You make some people sit in your lap while you treat others like this”, the judge remarked as he referred to the mass arrests the protestors were subjected to on reaching Islamabad on foot from Kech, Balochistan.

“They have come [here]. Let them sit”.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel stated that 34 Baloch protestors were still in custody who were still to be presented in an identification parade. He added that an individual named Zaheer,

named in the first information report (FIR) registered at the Kohsar police station, is missing.

At this, the SSP informed that Zaheer was in jail and could not be released due to non-payment of bail money.

Ad powered by advergic.com Meanwhile, the AG Islamabad maintained that it was “easy to blame the government, but not one Baloch person from among the protestors is missing”.

“A larger number of protestors than these have come here [Islamabad] before. You have pampered them. What did they [Baloch protestors] do?” the judge asked the SSP.

The petitioner’s lawyer pleaded that the court demand a report from the capital’s police explaining the arrest of the more than 50 women protesters. “There is a lot that I would like to say, but I cannot,” Justice Aurangzeb remarked.

He then ordered the police to conduct an identification parade of the 34 arrested Baloch protesters by today, and also instructed the Islamabad Police to submit a report explaining the arrest of the female protesters. The IHC adjourned the hearing of the case till December 29.

The government authorities claim to have released all Baloch protesters who arrived in Islamabad to highlight the

issue of missing persons but were rounded up in a crackdown.

However, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) — the protest organizers — contests the claim, asserting that Islamabad Police have failed to release all detainees despite lapse of the three-day deadline.

The BYC announced that people in Balochistan will stage demonstrations and strikes starting Wednesday in protest against authorities’ highhandedness.

“We doubt the government’s sincerity as its negotiation team, assigned by the premier for talks, has not reached out to us in the last two days,” stated a protest leader.

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Murtaza Solangi, part of the PM’s committee, affirmed that the BYC march participants were released by court after due legal procedures.

“We await the protesters’ demands to proceed with negotiations. Once these demands are presented, we anticipate further discussions,” he stated.

Gul Zadi, a female participant in the march, voiced dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of commitment to meeting the protesters’ demands and missing the deadline. Consequently, she said, the BYC is expanding the protest’s scope.

‘Unavailability of Judges’: SC turns down request for immediate hearing of Toshakhana plea g

Acting CJP says only two judges available in Islamabad as of now, emphasizes need for at least a three-member bench ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday turned down the request for immediate hearing of Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s plea against his disqualification in the Toshakhana case.

Acting Chief Justice Sardar Tariq Masood noted that only two judges were available in Islamabad, emphasizing the need for a three-member bench for the Toshakhana case. Hence, a hearing on the Toshakhana disqualification case would not be feasible this week, the acting CJ added.

There is, however, a good chance that the PTI’s appeal in election level-playing field case might be scheduled for hearing on Thursday (tomorrow).

Both the pleas were brought before Acting Chief Justice Sardar Tariq Masood on Wednesday.

Imran’s counsel Shahbaz Khosa urged the formation of a three-member bench to hear the disqualification case in the Toshakhana matter.

Justice Athar Minallah highlighted that the suspension of the disqualification will not lead to the former premier’s sentence being suspended. “The petition in front of us maintains that since the decision of the case has been suspended, the sentence [awarded to Imran] should also be done away,” he said, adding that such a

decision is unprecedented in Pakistan’s legal history.

Khosa referred to the case against Makhdoom Javed Hashmi in which he claimed the veteran politician’s conviction was also suspended along with the decision of the case. Underscoring the three-year disqualification imposed on the PTI’s founder, the lawyer emphasised how judge Humayun Dilaawar – who adjudicated on the Toshakhana case – swiftly conducted five hearings in a single day.

Justice Masood clarified that a two-member bench could only reject the request, asking the petitioner’s counsel if the court should to that? He said a two-member bench will be unable to provide interim relief, as the decision rested with the division bench in the high court.

“What if the case involves crucial points requiring a five-member bench,” Justice Masood pointed out, adding that Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa will be back in court next week.

The lawyer persisted, suggesting that the court could form a bench without a cause list. In response, Justice Tariq Masood stated, “We can’t form a bench here. Tell us who to call for a hearing?” The judges left the courtroom, concluding proceedings in the chamber.

Earlier, Justice Athar Minallah remarked that there were very serious allegations in the application. Advocate Khosa responded that had the case been filed on time, today’s emergency situation could have been

avoided. Justice Masood stated that only a three-member bench will hear the case, whereas the contempt of court petition related to the plea concerning level-playing field in the upcoming elections could be scheduled for hearing tomorrow.

PTI FOUNDER EYES APEX COURT Yesterday, Imran filed a petition in the apex court requesting the annulment of his conviction in the Toshakhana case and challenging the verdict of the trial court. Imran appealed against the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) decision, emphasising that challenging this ruling is his prerogative and argued that being declared ineligible before the elections infringes upon his fundamental rights.

The PTI founder raised concerns about the election commission’s swift decision which he contended displayed bias.

Imran requested the apex court to nullify the IHC decision and suspend the sentencing in the Toshakhana case. Expressing the urgency of the matter, the PTI founder urged the apex court to expedite proceedings, emphasising on the upcoming general elections. He stressed that the leader of the country’s “largest political party” should not be excluded from participating in the electoral process and requested the suspension of the decision in the Toshakhana case to enable his participation.

Sikandar Sultan Raja to take action on this matter as Shah Mehmood had been the foreign minister of Pakistan and always respected everyone. Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vice chairman, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, was rearrested from outside Adiala jail. As per details, Punjab police rearrested Shah Mahmood Qureshi after his release from Adiala Jail on bail in cipher case. The release came after police pleaded to end the 15-day detention orders of the former foreign minister under 3MPO. The former foreign minister was arrested by RA Bazaar police in a General Headquarters (GHQ) attack case.

“The disgraceful arrest of Shah Mahmood Qureshi after the Supreme Court granted him bail is a slap on the face of the judiciary and justice system,” the party said.

The party said the state was crossing all limits of brutality and cruelty over its failure to break the bond between Imran Khan and the nation. “After the announcement of the election schedule, there has been an increase in oppression and fascism against the leadership, candidates and workers of PTI,” it said.

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Pakistan successfully carries out flight test of Fatah-II: ISPr ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan on Wednesday conducted a successful flight test of Fatah-II, the military’s media affairs wing said.

According to the ISPR, Fatah-II is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, sophisticated navigation system and unique flight trajectory. “The weapon system is capable of engaging targets with high precision up to a range of 400 kilometres,” it said. The ISPR said that the flight test was witnessed by “senior officers from tri-services and dedicated scientists and engineers”. It further said that President Dr Arif Alvi, interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir congratulated participating troops and scientists on successfully conducting the flight test. In October, Pakistan had conducted successful flight test of the Ababeel Weapon System. The ISPR said the missile system was “aimed at strengthening deterrence and enhancing strategic stability in the region through the operationalisation of Full Spectrum Deterrence in the overall construct of Credible Minimum Deterrence”. In August 2021, Pakistan had conducted a successful test of “indigenously developed” Fatah-1 guided multi-launch rocket system (MLRS). At the time, the ISPR said the extended-range rocket system was capable of delivering a conventional warhead.

For a second time, PPP’s Faisal Saleh Hayat jumps ship, joins PML-N LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Former federal interior minister Faisal Saleh Hayat on Wednesday announced quitting the PPP, for a second time, and joined the PML-N ahead of the upcoming general elections. The announcement was made on Wednesday outside Hayat’s residence in Shah Jewana in the presence of PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif.

“We are confident that Hayat’s inclusion will strengthen the PML-N, especially in Jhang and Chiniot, but also in his other constituencies,” Shehbaz said as he welcomed the erstwhile PPP stalwart in the party fold.

He said that Hayat’s presence in the party will bolster Nawaz’s leadership. “Nawaz will, God willing, become the prime minister for the fourth term. He is not just a politician but also a statesman.” Earlier, there were reports that Faisal Saleh Hayat will make announcement regarding switching parties on Monday or Tuesday during the expected visit of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif to Jewana.

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02 NEWS

PUNJAB ENTERING IN 2024 WITH PERSISTENT SMOG

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LAHORE

StAff RePoRt

S the New Year approaches, a thick blanket of smog continues to envelop Punjab, threatening public health and prompting experts to warn of a crisis spilling over into 2024. The situation, marked by Air Quality Index readings exceeding 400 in major cities like Lahore, has been dubbed a disaster by the Punjab government, triggering health emergencies across several districts.

Despite measures like brick kiln closures, fines, and even attempts at artificial rain, the smog remains stubbornly pervasive.

Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has acknowledged the need for data-driven, comprehensive solutions, initiating an international study to identify the root causes of the problem.

Environmental lawyer Rafi Alam lam-

Thursday, 28 December, 2023 | KARACHI

basts the government’s reliance on ad-hoc measures like road sprinkling and temporary school closures, emphasizing the urgent need for long-term planning and data-backed solutions. He points to the lack of implementation of the recently approved Clean Air Policy as a glaring example of the disconnect between policy and action.

Public policy and environment expert Dawar Butt echoes Alam’s concerns, lamenting the sluggish implementation of existing policies like the Air Quality Policy 2023. He criticizes the delay in initiatives like electric vehicles and questions the lack of viable alternatives for phased-out rickshaws. Adding to the frustration, the air quality monitoring equipment project – started in 2018 with World Bank collaboration – remains incomplete, further hindering effective action.

Meanwhile, Dr. Imdad Ali Farooqui, a leading pulmonologist, paints a sobering picture of the health impact. He warns of visible

symptoms like cough, sore throat, and eye irritation, while highlighting the invisible long-term dangers of lung damage and cancer. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, forced to remain indoors during peak smog periods.

The future appears bleak as experts unanimously call for decisive, long-term action. The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad proposes measures like real-time smog data, phasing out polluting fuels, promoting renewable energy, boosting electric and hybrid vehicles, improving public transport, and raising awareness about air pollution.

These calls for action come amid a dire situation, where the health of millions and the very environment hang in the balance.

This revised news story condenses the information into a concise and impactful style, focusing on the key points and using strong verbs and impactful language to convey the urgency of the situation.

Electricity price to surge by Rs4.66/unit in Jan 2024, consumers to bear Rs33b burden The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) defended the move, stating that consumers were already paying Rs 3.08 kilowatt hour (kWh) on account of previous fuel charges adjustments and therefore a net impact on the electricity bills of the consumers would be Rs 1.58 per unit.

The NEPRA also questioned the CPPA for running power plants on imported fuel during the period under review while shutting down cheaper, domestically fueled plants for maintenance. The shutdown of the Thar coalbased plant for maintenance was highlighted as a contributor to higher electricity prices.

The regulator also noted a 13 percent decline in the electricity consumption and criticized the use of expensive liquefied natural gas (LNG) for power generation in November 2023 that caused higher electricity prices. The CPPA had also placed a request for previous adjustments of Rs 15.9 billion to pass on to the consumers in electricity bills in January 2024.

Responding to the concerns about overbilling, NEPRA affirmed its commitment to enforcing its decisions, issuing explanations to power distribution companies (DISCOs) and

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AhmAd AhmAdAni

In a move bound to add additional burden on the already burdened power consumers, electricity prices are slated to increase by up to Rs 4.6617 per unit in January 2024 on account of fuel charges adjustment (FCA) for the month of November 2023.

The anticipated electricity tariff hike under FCA of November 2023, if approved, will place an additional burden of Rs 33 billion on power consumers across the country except the electricity consumers of the K-Electric (KE).

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) faced vehement criticism during a public hearing held on Thursday.

The power regulator-National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) faced vehement criticism during the public hearing held here on Thursday for bowing to the pressure of power division to pass on the burden of electricity prices to the power consumers.

However, NEPRA said that it had worked independently and conducted due diligence/scrutiny of the data before making a decision regarding the electricity prices.

Winter vacation may be extended by one week in Punjab schools LAHORE

StAff RePoRt

The School Education Department is likely to extend winter holidays by another week keeping in view the severity of the cold weather, it was learnt on Wednesday.

The parents have also demanded to extend the vacation by one week due to the harsh weather coupled with dense fog in the morning, saying the month of January is likely to get even colder. The parents said that most of the private schools have already given more than a week of vacation and will open from January 8. The parents also demanded that the government school holidays should also be extended till January 7. The decision to extend the holidays or not will be taken after consultation with the government, said the Education Department.

Hindu businessman abducted for ransom in Kashmore

signaling legal action if necessary.

The power regulator said that they had implemented its decision in the past and therefore, they would also enforce its recent decision. It (NEPRA) said that they had issued an explanation to the power distribution companies (DISCOs) and would start a legal course of actions against them (DISCOs).

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA), acting on behalf of the DISCOs, applied to NEPRA for an increase in electricity prices under the Fuel Charges Adjustment (FCA) for November 2023.

The CPPA’s application reveals that the total electricity generated from various fuels in November was 7,547 GWh, at a cost of Rs 7.1704 per unit, resulting in a total energy cost of Rs 54,113 million. The data also indicates that the net electricity delivered to DISCOs in November 2023 was 7,288 GWh, at a rate of Rs 9.4448 per unit, with the total cost amounting to Rs 68,834 million.

According to CPPA’s data, electricity generated in November 2023 with hydel source constituted 36.50 percent, coal-fired plants 13.1pc, and gas-based plants 9.21%., nuclear 20.8%, RLNG 10.6%.

Climatic disaster major challenge, research vital to tackle it: Solangi LAHORE

KASHMORE

StAff RePoRt

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi has said that climatic disaster was among the major prevailing challenges faced by country and it can be tackled through promoting research-oriented knowledge.

This was stated by him while addressing the 4th convocation of Information Technology University (ITU) Punjab Lahore on Wednesday.

Punjab Governor Muhammad Balighur Rehman, ITU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Adnan Noor Mian, vice chancellors (VCs) of various universities, ITU Dean Faculty of Sciences Prof. Dr. Arif Mehmood, Dean Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Dr. Yaqoob Bangash, Dean Faculty of Business and Management Sciences Dr. Sara Khawar, faculty members and a large number of students and their parents attended the event.

Murtaza Solangi said, “We observe

StAff RePoRt

Despite the joint operation of the Rangers and the police, the incidents of kidnapping for ransom could not go down as bandits have now abducted a Hindu businessman in Kashmore on Wednesday. Mahesh Kumar belonged to Hindu community of Kashmore and is a prominent businessman of the city.

After the incident of kidnapping, Hindu community and citizens reached the Kashmore police station in large number. The relatives of the victim said that the robbers called and demanded a huge ransom after abducting the young man. They said that the kidnappers threatened to kill the businessman if ransom is not paid. The victim is running mobile phones business in the city and the dacoits kidnapped him when he was coming home, said the family. According to the citizens, the number of abductees in the city has increased to 13 after this incident.

Violent extremism, existential threat to Pakistan: Solangi

the negative effects of global warming and other climatic changes every day; therefore, we have to play our due role to protect the natural environment.”

The minister said that Pakistan was facing challenges of economic depression, intolerance and violent behaviours also. Emphasizing the important role of students to overcome these challenges, he said that only those nations attain the uphill tasks of development and prosperity which face the challenges firmly,

asserting that education was the most important tool to overcome these challenges. Pakistan could also fast progress and develop only through the acquisition and promotion of knowledge, he added.

He said humanity had been the characteristic of all religions and that very objective was of the education that people become better persons.

Solangi also stressed the need for tackling the negative propaganda, citing that unfortunately some people were spreading false and baseless news on social media to secure high ratings, which the government and patriotic people would have to fight out.

The minister said if research universities like the ITU maintain the very basis of their establishment, many of the problems would be solved automatically.

In this regard, he referred to the wellknown German dramatist’s famous play “The Exception and the Rule”. In the 4th convocation of the ITU, 524 students were awarded degrees including five with Ph.Ds and 16 with gold medals.

Aneeq reviews measures for convenience of pilgrims at Haji camp KARACHI APP

The Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed reviewed the necessary measures for the convenience of pilgrims here on Wednesday. Talking to media persons, the caretaker federal minister said all necessary measures are being taken for the convenience and ease of the pilgrims.

After 50 years, the Haji camp is being painted and the renovation work will be completed soon, Aneeq Ahmed said. He directed to make Hajj more convenient and said through the “Sponsorship Hajj Scheme” not only the overseas Pakistanis get quality facilities at low cost but the country will earn dollars through it. He said that more than 70,000 applications have been received in the regular Hajj scheme and the Hajj lottery will be held on Thursday.

Tehrik-e-Labbaik election candidate shot dead in Kharian KHARIAN

StAff RePoRt

An election candidate of Tehrik-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) was shot dead in a firing incident in Kharian on Wednesday morning.

As he was about to launch his campaign from PP-29, Malik Saqib Nawaz was sprayed with bullets by his rivals over a land dispute in the suburban village of Jalalpur Sobtiyan in Kharian city. The police have registered a case against seven accused on the complaint of Saqib’s father Muhammad Nawaz and arrested two accused in this regard. The police later shifted the body to a hospital for postmortem. The deceased was a candidate for Punjab Assembly from PP-29 constituency on a TLP ticket. It may be mentioned here that the process of filing nomination papers has been completed across the country and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is now scrutinizing the papers which will continue until December 30. Interestingly, six members of the same family including a woman had filed their nomination papers from the NA-62 and PP-28 constituencies in Kharian. Five brothers – Abid Raza, Naeem Raza, Shahid Raza, Shabbir Ahmad and Muhammad Ali Tanveer – and one sister-inlaw filed the nomination papers as they will contest elections against each other from the NA-62 constituency. The woman, Saadia Shahid, is the wife of Shahid Raza. Abid Raza is former MNA, Naeem Raza is ex-adviser to Punjab CM while Shabbir Ahmad is former MPA. Muhammad Ali Tanveer is former district chairman while Shahid Raza is former UC Nazim.

Pakistan to play leading part to strengthen ‘health emergency systems’ of poor countries, Minister says

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APP

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Wednesday said 16th martyrdom anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto was a stark reminder that violent extremism, in its all manifestations, shades, colours, shrouds and ideologies, remained an existential threat for Pakistan. Using his X account, he said the war against terrorism and extremism, was the long one, “but we shall win it, Insha Allah.”

APP

Caretaker Federal Minister for Health, Dr Nadeem Jan Wednesday on ‘International Day of Epidemic Preparedness’ stressed the importance of collaborative efforts and said that Pakistan would play its leading part in strengthening health emergency systems of poor countries through hosting its first global health security Summit.

Talking to a Private news channel, the

minister for health said that the ‘Global Health Security Summit’ will be held on January 10 and 11 in the federal capital of Pakistan, adding, that Pakistan will finalize its strategic road map to effectively tackle health emergencies and epidemics in the country.

Holding the summit will be proof that Pakistan will play a key role in the health sector and protect people from global epidemics, he mentioned.

The minister highlighted that ongoing

efforts will improve the availability of medicines, resources, infrastructure and increase production. Replying to a query, he said that Pakistan stands ready to contribute to all such endeavors and initiatives at relevant UN and WHO platforms.

In this regard, “We need to develop countries that should be prioritized in terms of equitable distribution of vaccines and medicines and building their fiscal space to combat the pandemics,” he added.

He said that soon Pakistan will also es-

tablish a ‘global pandemic financial facilities forum’ which would provide equal opportunities and distribute equal resources to low-income countries for handling epidemics. He assured that this international summit will give a positive image of Pakistan globally, adding, that the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing health challenges, improving health systems’ performance, and fostering cooperation to mitigate climate change impacts on health globally is a need of hour.

CDWP approves development projects worth Rs85.24 billion ISLAMABAD

GhulAm AbbAS

In a meeting presided over by the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Mohammad Jehanzeb Khan on Wednesday, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) greenlit seven development projects, signaling a total investment of Rs. 85.24 billion. Out of these, five projects, amounting to Rs. 13 billion, received direct approval, while two projects, totaling Rs. 72.24 billion, have been recommended for further consideration to the Executive Committee of the National Economic

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FIVE PROJECTS RECEIVE DIRECT APPROVAL WHILE TWO RECOMMENDED TO ECNEC FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION

Council (ECNEC).

As per details the gathering saw the participation of Secretary Planning Awais Manzur Sumra, senior officials from the Planning Commission, Federal Ministries/Divisions, as well as Chairman/ACS (Dev) from Provincial Governments.

Among the sectors addressed in these projects were Information Technology, Health, Physical Planning & Housing. Notably, projects from various ministries were

presented and discussed.

The Ministry of Information secured approval for two projects: “Upgradation of Transmission Network & Replacement of Optical Fiber Cable, AJK & Gilgit Baltistan (revised)” worth Rs. 1.99 billion, and “Prime Minister’s Initiatives Support for IT Startups, Specialized IT Trainings, and Venture Capital (revised)” worth Rs. 5 billion.

Additionally, the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordi-

nation proposed the “Establishment of Infectious Disease Laboratory” worth Rs. 8.29 billion, which was recommended to ECNEC for approval. This project, financed through PSDP, aims to enhance R&D capabilities for detecting various pathogens.

Projects from the Ministry of Law & Justice also received the nod. The “Construction of Litigants Facilitation Center for Litigants and Lawyers in Sector G-10/1 Islamabad” worth Rs. 1.862 billion and the “Establishment of 93-No District Courts in Mauve Area G-11/4 Islamabad (revised)” worth Rs. 2.233 billion were approved.

Another significant approval was the

“Baaikhtiyar Nojwan Internship Program Balochistan” worth Rs. 1,850 million, focusing on skill development internships, fully funded through a World Bank loan.

Lastly, the “Competitive & Livable City of Karachi (CLICK) (revised)” project worth Rs. 63.95 billion by the Government of Sindh has been recommended for ECNEC approval.

This project plans to receive financing from a World Bank loan and the Government of Sindh’s counterpart sharing.

The decisions made during this CDWP session mark a significant step towards bolstering various sectors and developmental initiatives across Pakistan.

NEWS 03

‘BURYING THE HATCHET’: PPP CHAIRMAN VOWS TO END POLITICAL ANIMOSITIES, DIVISION

Thursday, 28 December, 2023 | KARACHI

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GARHI KHUDA BAKHSH StAff RePoRt

EITERATING commitment to burying the hatchet of ‘political animosities,’ Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Wednesday said his party will end the politics of hatred and division in the country.

In his address on the occasion of the 14th death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, Bilawal declared that some forces thought that by eliminating Benazir, they could wiped out the PPP, but no such thing happened.

“The PPP stands strong today more than

Commerce minister to address status of SEZs in Karachi ISLAMABAD APP

Caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce and Industries, Dr. Gohar Ejaz here on Wednesday chaired high-level meeting to address the status of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Karachi for creating investment friendly environment the country and to assess the current status of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Karachi.

The meeting was attended by key officials including Sauleh Ahmed Farooqui, Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Rashid Langrial, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production and Sohail Rajput, Secretary Board of Investment. The meeting focused on the operational status of the Port Qasim SEZ, which is now ready for prospective investors.

The Port Qasim SEZ boasts comprehensive utility services, creating an ideal environment for businesses to thrive. During the discussions, the minister highlighted the importance of diversification and growth, specifically addressing the establishment of a SEZ dedicated to the Information Technology (IT) sector. The IT SEZ is poised to play a crucial role in fostering innovation and technological advancement in Pakistan. A key agenda item centered on initiatives to enhance the skill set of the labor force in Pakistan. The Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with other relevant authorities, plans to implement programs to improve the overall skill level of the workforce, with a particular emphasis on IT skills. This strategic approach aligns with the goal of boosting IT exports and positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in the global IT industry. The minister reiterated the need for proper incentivization of the public sector to ensure inclusive growth. He emphasized that sustained economic development requires a collaborative effort between the government and private sector, with appropriate incentives serving as a catalyst for progress.

Nomination papers of 109 candidates face intense scrutiny in Islamabad ISLAMABAD APP

In the bustling political arena, today witnessed the meticulous examination of nomination papers for key figures in three constituencies of Islamabad. Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar’s NA-47 and NA-48, Shoaib Shaheen’s NA-48, Zubair Farooq’s NA-46, Hafeez Rehman’s NA-46, and Jamshed Mughal’s NA-46 were all subject to thorough scrutiny by the District Returning Officer’s watchful eye, ICT spokesman Dr Abdullah Tabasum said on Wednesday. As the scrutiny unfolded, the fate of these prominent personalities now hangs in the balance until the Returning Officers in Islamabad deliver their decisions on December 30. It’s a critical juncture in the political landscape as contenders await the verdict that will determine the approval or rejection of their nomination papers. The hustle and bustle of these constituencies resonate with the anticipation of a decision that could shape the course of the upcoming political journey. With the clock ticking down to December 30, the candidates and their supporters are on the edge of their seats, awaiting the outcome that will either pave the way for their electoral journey or mark an unexpected halt. The scrutiny process is akin to a political litmus test, sifting through the candidates to ensure that only those who meet the established criteria move forward in the electoral race. The echoes of today’s scrutiny will reverberate until the decisive day when the Returning Officers pronounce the fate of the nomination papers. As the nation holds its breath, the political narrative unfolds, offering a glimpse into the dynamics that will shape the representation in the National Assembly.

the past,” the PPP chairman assert while addressing the gathering commemorating the anniversary of his mother’s martyrdom.

On December 27, 2007, Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in a gun and suicide bomb attack after an election rally in Rawalpindi, weeks after she returned to Pakistan from years in self-imposed exile.

“We are not those who run away from elections, snatch nomination papers, or shy away from the electoral process. This time, we will stand firm and fight to win,” the PPP chairman said.

Highlighting his PPP’s 10-point agenda, Bilawal stated his party, if elected, would provide free electricity to the poor up to 300 units, ensure access to education

for every child, double salaries within five years, build three million houses for the poor, provide financial assistance to youth through youth cards, and introduce a free healthcare system nationwide through public-private partnerships.

Additionally, he said that the PPP will establish green energy parks in every district and introduce a farmer card similar to the Benazir Income Support Programme.

He announced the launch of the “Bhook Mitao” (eradicate hunger) programme to combat poverty and unemployment, stating, “Through this programme, we will combat poverty and unemployment, having fought these challenges for three generations.”

Reflecting on his time during the coali-

tion government, he said that he did not see the coalition partners showing interest in tackling terrorism, economic challenges or foreign affairs.

‘PAKISTAN NOT POOR, ONLY ISLAMABAD IS POOR’: Former president and PPP Co-Chairman Syed Asif Ali Zardari, during his address, reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the rights of the people.

“Pakistan is not a poor country; it is Islamabad that is the poorest. The issues lie not in Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, or KhyberPakhtunkhwa but in the mindset of those seated in Islamabad,” he said.

Zardari underlined the disconnect between politicians and the struggles of the

Imran, Bilalwal, Maryam’s candidacies face objections LAHORE:

the PPP-Parliamentarians in his nomination papers,” the applicant said.

“While the Pakistan People’s Party and the PPP-Parliamentarians are two separate political parties,” petitioner argued.

“Bilawal Bhutto has been chairman of the People’s Party and Asif Ali Zardari has been president of the Parliamentarians,” according to the plea.

“The People’s Party’s election symbol is ‘Sword’ while the Parliamentarians contest election with symbol of ‘Arrow’”.It is to be mentioned here that Bilawal Bhutto’s nomination papers scrutiny for NA-127 constituency of Lahore will be held tomorrow (Thursday). Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has also filed nomination papers to contest election from NA-194 Larkana and NA-196 Shahdadkot.

Meanwhile, objection was filed against the nomination papers of Chief Organizer and Senior Vice President of PML-N Maryam Nawaz in PP-80 Sargodha. A Returning Officer in Sargodha has received a complaint alleging that Maryam Nawaz’s signatures on the nomination papers for PP-80 are forged.

The objector claims discrepancies in her assets details and asserts that she has faced penalties in various cases. Therefore, there is a call to reject Maryam Nawaz’s nomination papers.

SPEAKER KP ASSEMBLY’S NOMINATIONS REJECTED: On the other hand, the nomination papers of Mushtaq Ghani, the Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, were rejected. The decision came after the Returning Officer for PK-45 Abbottabad found that Mushtaq Ghani was absconding and had failed to return despite providing a travel guarantee.

The Returning Officer stated that due to Mushtaq Ghani’s absence, his nomination papers were rejected.

However, the papers submitted by Mushtaq Ghani’s wife, Farzana Mushtaq, were approved. It is important to note that objections to Mushtaq Ghani’s nomination papers were raised by Fayaz, leading to the rejection of his candidacy for the election from PK-45. Mushtaq Ghani had originally submitted his papers for consideration in this constituency.

PTI’s Qureshi manhandled, re-arrested upon release from Adiala Jail CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

It said Qureshi was one of the party’s main candidates in the forthcoming Feb 8 general election, adding that attempts were being made to keep him out of the election race.

It termed the deputy commissioner’s detention order a clear violation of the Supreme Court’s decision regarding a level playing field for all political parties. The party held the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) responsible for the atrocities being carried out against PTI by the “unconstitutional, illegal and undemocratic caretaker governments”. The PTI urged the chief justice of Pakistan to take notice of abuse of power and issue orders for Qureshi’s recovery and release.

In a video shared by the PTI, party chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan requested the judiciary and Supreme Court to look into the matter. “You granted [Qureshi] bail on the grounds that he is a senior politician who needs to contest the elections,” Khan said.

“And for elections to be free and fair and transparent, it is necessary that all people participate,” he said.

“Shah Mahmood Qureshi has been arrested and rearrested like this multiple times before,” Gohar said, adding that such arrests had an impact on the elections. Speaking to reporters outside Adiala Jail later in the day, Gohar said, “If the Supreme Court granted bail to Qureshi on the basis that elections need to be free and fair and transparent, then the ECP needs to make sure he is released.”

He said the party would approach

For a second time, PPP’s Faisal Saleh Hayat jumps ship, joins PML-N CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

StAff RePoRt

Objections were filed against the candidacies of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in NA-122 Lahore, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto in NA-127 and PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz in PP-80 Sargodha.

As per details, Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s bid for a seat in the 2024 general elections from NA-122 Lahore has hit a snag with an objection filed against his nomination papers. Mian Naseer, a Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) candidate and former provincial assembly member, submitted the objection, citing Khan’s recent conviction as grounds for disqualification.

Mian Naseer argues that Khan’s conviction in the Toshakhana reference renders him ineligible to contest in accordance with Pakistan’s election laws.

This latest challenge follows an objection raised against the nomination papers of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, also contesting from Lahore.

Similarly, a citizen has filed objection to the nomination papers of Pakistan People’s Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Lahore’s NA-127 constituency on Wednesday. An application has been filed with the Returning Officer objecting to nomination of the PPP chairman. “The election law has been violated as a person could be member of one political party under the law,” according to the application.

“Bilawal has shown affiliation with

common man. “Politicians are preoccupied with the promises made during election campaigns, oblivious to the hardships faced by the impoverished class,” he stated.

Crediting his party for the restoration of the 1973 Constitution, Zardari defended his political legacy, stating, “No one can accuse me of switching sides. Public issues can only be resolved by politicians.”

The former president expressed commitment to fulfilling promises made by Bilawal, saying, “Together, we will fulfil all the promises made by Bilawal. Let us be patient and considerate; we will build Pakistan.

Many have come and gone, but today, we only remember Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.”

the ECP and the high court if necessary.

“I also told the ECP that it would have been very good if they personally went out today and surveyed what was happening in various locations,” Gohar said, adding that he would submit an application to them. PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub also strongly condemned the manner of Qureshi’s arrest and termed the police actions as “sheer thuggery”.

PTI Senior Vice President Sher Afzal Marwat said that “ending cruelty requires active resistance and advocacy” and called on supporters to use the ballot to “make a difference by standing up for what’s right”.

‘INDECENT TREATMENT’ OF TWO-TIME FOREIGN MINISTER’: Meanwhile, President Arif Alvi also reacted to Qureshi’s arrest, calling on the authorities to take notice of the “indecent treatment” of the two-time foreign minister, who served in the top office during two different governments.

“We must not become a state where human rights and dignity are violated without fear. Authorities must pay attention to the confiscation of documents, the brutal action against the protesters and now the indecent treatment of the former foreign minister by two governments,” Alvi wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. He said that “such incidents have happened before” but are not appropriate as Pakistan must undergo change.

MEHERBANO MOVES ECP AGAINST FATHER’S ‘UNLAWFUL ABDUCTION’: Meanwhile, Meherbano, the daughter of Shah Mahmood Qureshi filed a petition with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)

against the “unlawful abduction” of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman. In response to the former foreign minister’s arrest, his daughter demanded the electoral body to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities and ensure the safety and release of Qureshi, who is a candidate standing the upcoming elections from multiple constituencies of the National Assembly and provincial assemblies of Punjab and Sindh.

Meherbano stated in the petition that Qureshi had been granted bail by the Supreme Court, and referred to the remark of Justice Athar Minallah, who stated: “The incarceration of the petitioners will not serve any useful purpose. Moreover, their release on bail during the period of elections would ensure ‘genuine elections and thus enable the people to exercise the right to express their will effectively and meaningfully.” Meherbano stated that the 3-MPO detention order had been withdrawn on the same day it was issued.

“It is not known to us that if the MPO Order was withdrawn soon after its issuance yesterday then under what pretext was Mr Qureshi unlawfully detained at Adyala Jail till around 10.30/11am this morning,” the petition read. Meherbano mentioned that her father was previously detained under the 3-MPO order issued on May 23, but the Lahore High Court later quashed the order, stating that “it is further expected thot after his release, Shah Mahmood Qureshi will not be detained under the provisions of the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Ordinance 2017, for any delinquency having been committed in the past”.

Hayat, a former PPP and PML-Q member, had given a clear indication last week that he was about to switch sides again. On Friday, when he reached in a big procession of his supporters to the office of returning officer to file his nomination papers for NA-108 and PP125, not a single PPP flag was carried by any of his supporters. Hayat had first quit the PPP during the Musharraf regime and later joined the PML-Q. He rejoined the PPP in 2017. In the 2018 general election, he was the PPP candidate but lost the election to PTI’s Sahibzada Muhammad Mehboob Sultan by just 600 votes in the recount. The PML-N could not field any candidate in his constituency in the last election.

FIA arrest four-member gang involved in issuing illegal CNICs to non-nationals ISLAMABAD APP

A major breakthrough was achieved in the case of illegal issuance of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) as the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) AntiCorruption Circle Islamabad on Wednesday arrested a four-member gang, allegedly involved in issuing fake CNICs to nonnationals. According to an FIA spokesperson, the action was taken under the direction of Deputy Director Anti-Corruption Circle Islamabad Afzal Khan Niazi. The arrested accused Muhammad Tahir, Adnan Ammar, Muhammad Amir Khan and Muhammad Tayyab were posted as deputy assistant directors and senior executives at NADRA Mega Center, Blue Area, Islamabad. “The accused were arrested from Islamabad and the raid for that was carried out under the leadership of Inspector Zahid Bhatti,” the spokesperson said. The accused issued identity cards to non-nationals/Afghans during the year 2019 and 2020. “For this purpose, fake fathers were arranged by the agents amongst drug addicts/labourers/daily wage workers by the agent mafia through cheating as they were lured in by paying money in the guise of Ehsaas/BISP/NGO aid payments and hence, their biometrics were obtained by above-mentioned NADRA officers/officials for the purpose of entering the names of Afghans/non-nationals in their (fake fathers) family tree,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “Financial gratification was received directly or indirectly by the NADRA (National Database & Registration Authority) staff for the said illegal and unlawful acts.

Biker injured on resistance LAHORE

StAff RePoRt

Two suspected robbers shot at and injured a man on resistance in Manawan on Wednesday.

Umar, 30, of Tulspura was going to his home on a motorcycle when two robbers stopped him outside Diyal House. The suspects pulled out their gun and snatched Rs5,000, a mobile phone and a laptop from Umar who tried to resist. One of the suspects opened fire at Umar and a bullet hit him in the belly. The suspects managed their escape. The injured was taken to the Services hospital where he was said to be stable. Harbanspura police have registered a case and started investigation.

President displeased over delay by HEC to attest student’s degree; directs inquiry ISLAMABAD APP

President Dr Arif Alvi has expressed displeasure over the delay by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for not attesting the degree of a former student on flimsy grounds and upheld the orders of the Wafaqi Mohtasib directing HEC to attest her degree within seven days. The president also instructed for initiating an inquiry against delinquent official responsible for wasting precious months of the student.

He gave these directions while rejecting

a representation filed by HEC against a decision of the Wafaqi Mohtasib directing it to attest a female student’s BA degree within seven days. As per details, Savera Afridi (the complainant) had applied to HEC for attestation of her BA degree and DMC but she was informed that since the session of her degree was 2020, it could not be attested as HEC had phased out two-year conventional B.A/B.Sc. program and the universities were not allowed to enrol students in conventional B.A/B.Sc. program after the academic year 2019. Feeling aggrieved, the complainant approached the

Wafaqi Mohtasib who passed the orders in her favour. The HEC then filed a representation as well as a review petition with the Mohtasib, which were rejected. Later, the Commission filed a representation against the orders of the Mohtasib with the President. The President held personal hearing of the case and rejected HEC’s representation.

He observed that the complainant was given admission by the University of Peshawar for the session 2019-2020 and the complainant had produced a letter of the University dated 01.09.2022 which showed that the complainant’s session for her BA degree

was 2019-2020 and she was given admission in January 2020. He added that since the complainant was given admission by the University for the session 2019-2020, therefore, there was no fault on the part of the complainant and she should not suffer for the acts and omissions of the University if it had violated HEC’s policy by allowing registrations for such session. He stated that Wafaqi Mohtasib had rightly observed that it was HEC’s responsibility as a regulator to see as to whether its decisions were being implemented by the universities and any lapse on its part amounted to failure to per-

form its statutory obligations. President Alvi held that a student should not suffer because of the inaction of HEC or the university. He regretted that HEC, instead of taking any action against the University, had put the complainant into unnecessary ordeal without any fault on her part and was not attesting her degree. The president, therefore, rejected the representation of HEC with the observation that it should censure the universities which were not following its guidelines or instructions so that in future the students should not suffer because of its inaction.

04 COMMENT

Gaza genocide made celebration hard

Overdoing it

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The caretakers’ introduction of legislation goes beyond their mandate

HE caretaker government’s introduction of four bills in the Senate, and laying of four ordinances, provoked a ruckus in the House, as senators expressed their objections. Even if the caretaker government is able to introduce bills into the Senate, it should not do so. It is perfectly able to legislate by getting ordinances promulgated, but even laying them before the Senate is a form of introduction, and if passed, only National Assembly passage will complete the legislative process. However, by laying them in the Senate, the caretaker government is committing the future government to piloting the legislation through the Senate first. It is not necessary that the government would have a majority in the Senate. The future Parliamentary Affairs Minister may prefer to introduce a bill in the National Assembly, get it passed there, defeated in the Senate and then passed in the joint session.

By committing a future government to a particular legislative sequence, the caretakers may well decrease the chances of passage. Also, it is to be assumed that even if the ordinances introduced were urgent and necessary, the bills were not. In that case, the chances are that the bills came up because they had made it through the legislative machinery, which starts with an official having a bright idea, and goes through numerous stages before being approved by the Cabinet for introduction in Parliament, These are primarily bureaucratic, but it is primarily a political decision to introduce them. A caretaker government should be doing its best to avoid involvement, especially when it is as burdened as the present one is, with distrust about whether it will conduct its primary task, which is to conduct elections. This distrust has arisen because it has gone beyond the time limit set in the Constitution. If it had held elections within that timeframe, it would not have had to introduce any bills. The disturbing air of semi-permanence about these caretakers is enhanced rather than dispelled by these attempts to legislate. It is true that the affairs of the country are so designed that they cannot go without legislation. However, the constitutionally provided method is the promulgation of ordinances. The real problem is that the caretakers seem to have misunderstood their function. They are not a full-fledged government, but merely an interim arrangement, whose purpose is to hold elections, and handle any emergencies or cerises that might arise, not make a mark on history, whether by making reforms in a sector or piloting legislation, even if only through one House.

A modern take on the nativity

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Washington Watch dR James J Zogby

ITH genocide unfolding in Gaza, Christians in the Holy Land were having a difficult time feeling joy this Christmas season. Bethlehem cancelled its traditional celebrations.

There were no tree-lighting or festivities. Instead of setting up the traditional Nativity scene of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus in a stable surrounded by shepherds and their sheep, Rev. Munther Ishaq, a Lutheran pastor in Bethlehem, erected the birth scene with the baby Jesus lying in rubble. Rev. Ishaq said that this was an appropriate representation because “if Jesus were born today, he’d be in solidarity with the suffering humanity of Gaza.”

To be sure, there will be Christians in the West who will scoff at these Palestinian actions, accusing them of miscasting or politicizing Christmas to suit their needs. In reality, however, the grossly distorted version of Christmas is its popular manifestation in the West where the trees, lights, Santa Claus and giftgiving have eclipsed the birth of Jesus as the dominant themes of the Christmas season. These

Mary was a young girl, nine months pregnant, forced to ride a rough journey for days from Nazareth to Bethlehem, her husband JosephÊs family seat.

On arrival, they found no place to stay and so were forced to spend their time in one of BethlehemÊs many caves.

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami

innocent-enough traditions have been exploited by commercial interests, making the month before Christmas Day a crass non-stop blitz of enticements to buy and buy more.

When Christmas in the West does involve religious themes, the birth narrative is presented as a sort of sanitized fairytale. The town of Bethlehem is silent and peaceful. “All is calm, all is bright,” and then the birth just happens, followed by rejoicing.

Other aspects of the story we can glean from scripture and tradition, however, suggest a more complicated and more profoundly human subtext to the story. These have been glossed over in our contemporary retelling of the story but would have been both understood and unsettling to those who heard the story two millennia ago.

Mary was a young girl, nine months pregnant, forced to ride a rough journey for days from Nazareth to Bethlehem, her husband Joseph’s family seat. On arrival, they found no place to stay and so were forced to spend their time in one of Bethlehem’s many caves. A tradition captured in the Qur’an tells of Mary as she was about to deliver, going off on her own and crying out in labour pains, saying, at one point, “I wish that I had not been born.”

We are also told in scripture that the new parents were warned that the Roman ruler of the region, feeling threatened that a child had been born who might challenge his authority, sent his troops to slaughter newborns. This threat forces Mary and Joseph and their newborn infant to flee to Egypt to save their child’s life.

When all the parts are put together, a different picture emerges than the one that has been popularized in our culture. In addition to the rejoicing at new life and the celebration of the child whom they understand will offer salvation, a more complete picture must include the starkness of the setting, the pain accompanying birth, and the normal fears of the new parents accentuated by their concern for his and their safety in the face of oppressive rule.

And never forget Mary’s words on being told she would give birth to Jesus. She praises God, saying in

Solidarity for Palestinian people Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi Joint Editor

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Thursday, 28 December, 2023

The story of the birth of Jesus is an act of identification with suffering humanity and an expression of hope that comes with each new life. With this in mind, please have a ÂMerry but meaningful ChristmasÊ part, “He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty-handed.”

As Rev. Ishaq notes, Jesus is to be seen in solidarity with and giving hope to suffering humanity.

The baby in the rubble offers “hope of a new beginning coming out of destruction.”

This more faithful rendition of the Christmas narrative aligns with today’s reality faced by Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem and Gaza. In Bethlehem, they are strangled and cut off from the rest of the West Bank by a 28-foot-high concrete wall and massive Jewish-only settlements built on their communal lands. They’ve lost access to their fields and vineyards and their ability to travel is severely constricted.

In Gaza, Palestinians have been forced to flee their homes, which have been reduced to rubble, and then bombed or killed by sniper fire when they seek refuge in their churches.

As I write this, I am reminded of the fact that more than 30,000 Palestinian women in Gaza are pregnant.

Like Mary, they have no comfortable place to go to deliver their babies. Their homes are destroyed. From day to day, they are on the move to escape the relentless bombing. They, like Mary, live in fear.

And so, Rev. Ishaq’s action is, in fact, the most appropriate way to commemorate Christmas, because the story of the birth of Jesus is an act of identification with suffering humanity and an expression of hope that comes with each new life. With this in mind, please have a “Merry but meaningful Christmas.”

The writer is President of the Arab American Institute

Executive Editor

Unmasking the Myth Ramsha shahid

HE annual observance of the International Day of Solidarity for Palestinian People on 29 November symbolises a purported global dedication to the Palestinian cause. However, the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza serves as a poignant illustration of the international community’s double standards and hypocrisy, particularly among Western nations who traditionally position themselves as advocates for democracy, freedom, and human rights. This dissonance between lofty proclamations of solidarity and the harsh reality on the ground prompts critical scrutiny of the sincerity of these commitments. The consistent provision of diplomatic, military, and economic support to Israel further raises questions about the effectiveness of the International Day of Solidarity and the genuine intent behind such expressions.

A notable shortfall in addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis and genocide against Palestinians is evident in the UN Security Council’s failure to pass a resolution for a ceasefire, revealing polarization among its members and a lack of cohesive global support. Similarly, a discernible double standard emerges when juxtaposing the swift condemnation of Russian actions in Ukraine by Western nations with their apparent hesitancy to apply analogous principles to the situation in Gaza. The stark contrast is exemplified by EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen’s characterization of Russia’s attacks as “acts of pure terror” and muted response towards Israel, highlights a selective prioritization of human rights concerns. Thus, the subdued response from major global powers to Israel’s actions reveals a deficiency in upholding the principles of solidarity and empathy, emphasizing a critical lapse in addressing the urgency of the crisis.

Furthermore, media coverage exacerbates this issue, with Western media echoing Israeli narratives and perpetuating a one-sided view of the conflict. The spread of misinformation contributes to a skewed narrative that lacks objectivity and deepens the divide. The actions taken by some Western governments, such as banning pro-Palestinian rallies and labeling demonstrations as “hate marches,” indicate a suppression of freedom of expression and a lack of commitment to democratic values. These measures, coupled with threats to university funding and accusations of anti-Semitism against pro-Palestinian activists, underline a troubling pattern of stifling dissent and limiting the space for advocating Palestinian rights.

Similarly, the perceived inconsistency by Western powers extends to the Kashmir conflict, revealing parallels in the international community’s responses. The reluctance of the West to act decisively and its strategic alliances with Israel and India, indicate prioritization of geopolitical interests over consistent

advocacy for human rights. It reflects a persistent pattern of suppression and accusation, notwithstanding global public concern for justice. The notable absence of substantive action or consistent diplomatic efforts in both conflicts underscores a dual standard in conflict resolution which reinforces systemic issues of solidarity and perceived hypocrisy. Thus, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive reevaluation of international strategies in addressing prolonged conflicts.

While leaders of many Muslim countries denounced Israel and engaged in diplomatic activism at the UN, their responses still fell short of the expectations of the majority of their population. In essence, the collective response from major global actors reflects the absence of global solidarity for the Palestinian people. The diplomatic, humanitarian, and media dimensions of this lack of solidarity contribute to the perpetuation of the crisis and undermine their freedom struggle against the atrocities of Israeli forces.

Ensuring genuine solidarity with the Palestinian people demands a concerted global effort that transcends geopolitical considerations by upholding the principles of justice and human rights. The recent conflicts have once again brought to light the need for meaningful solutions. The international community must hold all parties accountable for violations of international law, ensuring impartiality within UN mechanisms. Humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts must be escalated to alleviate the immense suffering of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Public awareness and advocacy, particularly through grassroots campaigns and social media, are also critical to galvanize global support for justice and human rights alongside unbiased media coverage that reflects diverse perspectives.

The International Day of Solidarity for Palestinian People serves as a stark reminder of the gap between global rhetoric and tangible actions, particularly in the context of the ongoing

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

The International Day of Solidarity for Palestinian People serves as a stark reminder of the gap between global rhetoric and tangible actions, particularly in the context of the ongoing crisis in Gaza. It is high time that the world must move beyond symbolic gestures and engage in concrete actions to address the fundamental cause of the conflict, ensure accountability, and work towards a just resolution for the Palestinian people crisis in Gaza. It is high time that the world must move beyond symbolic gestures and engage in concrete actions to address the fundamental cause of the conflict, ensure accountability, and work towards a just resolution for the Palestinian people.

Ramsha Shahid is a researcher at Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, Pakistan. She can be reached at info@casslhr.com

Editor’s mail

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E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Request for extension of winter vacations in Islamabad

I am writing to request the federal government to consider extending winter vacations for educational institutions across the country. I am aware that the Punjab government is contemplating a similar extension, and I believe that a nationwide initiative in this regard is essential for the well-being of students and the overall education system. As we are currently experiencing unusually harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures, it is evident that the health and safety of students are at risk. The extension of winter vacations would safeguard the health of students during this challenging period. I urge the federal government to consider the impact of weather conditions on the well-being of students and to take proactive measures by extending winter vacations. Such a decision would not only prioritize the health and safety of our youth but also demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment.

MUHAMMAD BURRAIR ISLAMABAD

Freelancer’s woes

DESPITE having a low literacy rate, Pakistan is doing great in the world of freelancing. Pakistani freelancers earn around $25-35 per hour. The average age of these free- lancers is no more than 25-30 years. Unfortunately, the government is least concerned about widening the scope of freelancing and addressing the problems of freelancers in the country. These young freelancers are based in Pakistan and every dollar they earn lands in the country. The government should prioritise them because the more they earn, the more money is generated that will strengthen the national economy. Many freelancers face trouble while receiving dollar-based payments owing to the absence of many digital payment platforms that do not operate in Pakistan. Regrettably, no government has ever tried to see what can be done in this regard. The government should encourage freelancers and resolve their concerns.

MOHAMMED SALEEM HUB

Fire resilience

RECENT fire incidents in Karachi have heightened anxieties, and emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive approach. This entails regular fire audits and systematic evaluation of buildings’ fire safety measures, including evacuation procedures. The implementation of fire audits in Karachi holds immense significance for several reasons. Timely and comprehensive assessments are essential to contribute to the overall resilience of Karachi in the face of fire- related emergencies. It is a our collective responsibility to work towards creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone in the city.

DR INTIKHAB ULFAT KARACHI

Missing gear

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

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Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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WHILE strolling along the beach recently, I spotted two finely dressed horse-mounted policemen patrolling the area. One of them rushed to have a word with some stranger as he suspected him. After a short inquiry, the policeman returned and joined his fellow rider. It was a nice little moment to watch, but what made me concerned was the unavailability of proper riding gear, like paddock boots and breaches, for the policemen. The department concerned would do well to provide its staff with proper horse-riding gear.

TAHIR HASSAN KARACHI

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

Thursday, 28 December, 2023

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Dr ShahiD rahim

-century-and-a-half back when the electric supply industry (ESI) started, it was small, isolated, and dispersed. Small generators, installed nearer to consumers, served them directly, and were isolated from each other. The first hundred years, however, saw these small systems merge and grow into a gigantic business enterprise, both in scope and size, and it was termed “the largest and most complex machine in the world”. But a few events, set into motion in the past few decades, not only halted ESI’s further growth but forced it to come full circle, bearing out some theorists that small was not only “beautiful” but “profitable” too.

The ESI was born with Thomas Edison’s inventing the light bulb in 1879 and establishing 2 thermal plants in the next 2 years, first in London and then in New York. Both plants were small and powered only the lights of a few hundred homes and shops in their neighborhoods using low voltage direct current (DC) supply.

The advent of alternating current (AC) and transformer a few years later, rendered the low voltage DC systems of Edison obsolete, and spawned a technological revolution in the ESI that saw power plants get bigger and bigger and interconnected in a complex web of higher and higher voltage transmission lines to serve consumers often located hundreds and thousands of miles away.

Major factors contributing to this business boom included the “economies of scale” in generation, distances between major load centres and good generation sites (especially hydro), and technical and economic benefits that interconnection of isolated systems offered by way of reserve sharing, energy trading, and reliability improvement.

The first 100 years of the industry saw generating units getting doubled in size every six or seven years. Between 1955 and

The tale of electric supply industry’s coming full circle

COMMENT 05

An opportunity to mend our power sector

1970, the generating unit size jumped from 200 MW to 1400 MW, a seven-fold increase.

The prices of electricity also either declined or remained stable in real terms for almost over a century.

Like all good things, this “bigger was better and cheaper too” boom of the ESI finally ended in the 1970s. The OPEC oil embargo triggered a sharp rise in the industry’s costs of production which regulators were reluctant to pass on to consumers. Growing environmental concerns with mega generation and transmission projects also made them difficult to approve and finance. The advent of gas-fired combined cycle power plants in the 100 to 200 MW range, ended the golden era of the large central-station supply systems and of the vertically integrated ESI also.

Encouraged by reforms in the telephone and airline industries and pioneered by initiatives in the UK and Chile in the early 1990s, power sectors around the world were also swept by efforts to restructure the electric utilities to open them for competition in the generation function and permitting choice at the wholesale, and in some cases retail, levels. The ESI consequently was forced to turn on its heels.

Meanwhile, and particularly around the turn of the last century, variable renewable energy (VRE) technologies which were dubbed by utility managers as “exotic” and “heretical”, and brushed aside offhandedly, were making inroads quietly into the demand segments of this industry, previously considered the exclusive domain of centralized electric utilities.

Even though the technical superiority of the VREs had never been in dispute nor had their negligible operating costs been, the main hurdle to their uptake had been their high investment costs. That obstacle was also removed in the last decade as, spurred by expanding demand, their costs plum-

meted—90 percent for solar photovoltaic and 70 percent for onshore wind electric systems since 2010— bringing them into a head-to-head competition with the traditional options.

A confluence of multiple factors pushed the ESI into an unprecedented dilemma. First time in its history, it was forced to realize that a continuation on the previous path— building large central-station power plants and serving consumer demand via extensive transmission and distribution (T&D) networks was not viable anymore, and in fact meant financial ruin for them. It must either embrace the new market realities and return to its original small and distributed scale or perish.

Since then, electric utilities around the world have been going through a transformation process that has involved rethinking the traditional business model and replacing it with dynamic, flexible, and consumer-centric approaches. It has also necessitated many changes in the way power systems are planned and operated.

On the business side, electric utilities have been helped by their governments and regulators in creating policy, regulatory, and market frameworks that encourage investment in small, dispersed, and VRE-based

Base, given its size and the services on offer was nicknamed ‘Little America.’ It had the largest military hospital outside the US, a multiplex cinema, a bowling alley and high school. At its peak, it sprawled over some 50 square km on the Mediterranean coast, from which Libyans were banned! Wheelus was home to about 15,000 military personnel and their families. Pilots had access to five shooting ranges in nearby Al-Wytia in the Libyan desert. Today, Wheelus has been turned into Mitiaga Airport.

Up until 2011, Libya also used to celebrate October 7 as the anniversary of the expulsion of some 20,000 Italian settlers in 1970. They were the civilian face of Italy’s occupation of Libya starting in September 1911. At one point, they owned or controlled almost the entire trade of major commodities, repair shops, and small mills. In Eastern Libya, they owned the most fertile land on which Libyans were merely cheap laborers.

Many of them were paid in food and shelter instead of money, while the settlers owned handicraft workshops that employed local craftsmen but paid them a pittance.

What happened with the foreign military bases was repeated with both the banking and oil sectors. Before Gaddafi’s 1969 revolution, the banking sector was dominated by the Italians and British. As of December 1970 all foreign banks were nationalized as per law Number 153 adopted that year. The same model was applied to the oil industry.

First, all oil companies operating in the country were given Arabic names and in 1973 the new Oil Law was passed nationalizing most oil exploration, production, and exports.

The former regime made it its duty to remind Libyans of their proud history of fighting the colonial powers that have invaded their country, particularly the Italian colonization, which killed nearly half a million Libyans between 1911 and 1943, including the leader of the resistance, Omar Mukhtar, who was captured and hanged in 1931.

After years of pressure and negotiations, Libya managed to do what no other country has done: compel Italy to apologize for its colonial brutality and pay reparations. In 2008, Tripoli and Rome signed the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership settling their colonial period grievances while setting anticolonial example. Under the treaty, Rome committed to pay Tripoli half a billion dollars over a period of 25 years in the form of development projects including roads, hospital, railway network, educational scholarships for Libyan students and return of stolen artefacts.

Libya today is home to more than some 20,000 foreign troops, mercenaries and armed groups supporting different local factions fighting for power and influence. To many Libyans, this is “unimaginable,” said Ali Mahmoud from Tripoli University. Mahmoud wondered “how could Libya become host to foreign troops decades after kicking them out?”

The majority of Libyans are unhappy with the presence of foreign forces at Libyan bases in Misrata, Benghazi, Al-Watya, southwest of Tripoli, and other locations. They see it as a form of occupation.

Achieving all these objectives, some of which may be mutually conflicting, will not be easy and will need visionary leadership, bold and politically difficult decisions, and a painstakingly devised set of policies and plans. ItÊs a must however as the nation canÊt afford to let the business continue as usual

Gaddafi took the country with him: Why do Libyans feel occupied after being ‘liberated’?

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RT

muStafa fetouri

WELVE years ago, the so-called Arab Spring visited Libya, ending Muammar Gaddafi’s rule and plunging the country into chaos, leaving it divided along tribal and regional lines. Gaddafi himself was murdered at the hands of Western-supported militias.

NATO’S DISGUISED MILITARY INVASION OF LIBYA: What started in February 2011 as a small and limited civilian demonstration against the Gaddafi government in Eastern Libya turned out to be Western-supported regime change endeavour involving military intervention by NATO disguised as “protection of civilians.”

The UN Security Council was forced by the US, UK and France to adopt Resolution 1973, which opened the door for the use of force against Libya simply because Western powers wanted to depose Gaddafi in a blatant violation of the resolution itself. The rest is history.

Confused Libyans were told that democracy, prosperity, and freedom were just around the corner. However, once they turned that corner they discovered that Gaddafi may have disappeared but, in a way, he took Libya with him.

Years later, the country is at a stand-still with little progress towards freedom and stability. Many of its sovereign decisions are made by others, while armed militias dominate the country, acting as proxies for foreign powers.

WHY LIBYANS FEEL THEIR COUNTRY IS UNDER OCCUPATION: Most Libyans feel that their country has lost its independence and fallen under a new form of occupation. Politicians can hardly decide on anything without foreign input. The same countries that destabilized Libya over a decade ago are impeding its progress now.

National sovereignty and independent domestic and foreign policies were the two important pillars of Gaddafi’s rule. During his four decades as leader of the oil-rich North African state, he managed to make them part of the Libyan national identity. As a result, Libyans became wary of all kinds of foreign interference in their country’s affairs, suspecting almost everything that comes from the West, in particular, Italy, the US, Britain and France. These four countries have played a sinister role in Libya’s history, much of which is not forgotten. All of them stand accused of violating Libya’s sovereignty.

Prior to the 2011 Western-forced regime change and the ensuing civil war, Libya used to celebrate four annual holidays, each marking a turning point in the country’s proud history and reminding the younger generations of the importance of being an independent sovereign nation. Foreign dignitaries, sometimes even heads of states, attended these symbolic national events to further emphasize their importance.

PROUD OLD LIBYA: For example, March 28 marks the expulsion of British forces who used to occupy a strategic airbase in Tobruk in Eastern Libya. In 1970, just six months after taking power, Gaddafi ordered all foreign troops to leave the country, or face a public uproar. On June 11 of the same year, American troops evacuated their huge military base just outside Tripoli. Wheelus Air

THE NO LONGER PROUD NEW LIBYA: The new Libya is not keen to remember, let alone celebrate, either “its distant or recent history,” says a Tripoli-based historian who wishes to remain anonymous.

He added that “history is an integral part of national personality” that is built over time through “educating the young and informing the old” about their country’s past. His colleague Milad, also fearful of revealing his surname for fear of reprisals, agrees, adding that “one of the big legacies of the Gaddafi era was making Libyans proud of themselves through honoring past national events.”

Since October 2011, not a single national commemoration or celebration has been observed in the country. Even worse, Libya’s politics, including election issues and economic affairs, are being managed by foreign countries or through their local proxies.

schemes. The century-old business is now being reorganized along more open and flexible lines to treat these new options not as a threat to the industry but as a partner to its own efforts to serve society with reliable and affordable electricity.

Many innovative schemes are being used to induce consumers and investors to install small and distributed technologies in the system. Utilities are finding it more feasible to serve customers that are located away from their existing grids either exclusively by them or in partnership with investors and local communities.

Utilities are also developing appropriate tools and data and information bases and making these freely accessible to potential customers and investors for using these to assess the scope and viability of VRE-based supply options in meeting customers’ own demand as well as contribution to their local grids.

Two major efforts deserve special mention. First, power system planning is assuming a new role by initiating the process at the consumer end to grasp the nature and characteristics of demand and working upward to assess the most feasible and valuable option to serve that demand. Second, the grid is being modernized, not just in terms of capacity, but to enhance its capability for integrating diverse and distributed technologies.

Our leaders in Pakistan must also real-

FEELING OF HIDDEN OCCUPATION: In the eyes of ordinary Libyans their country is indeed under indirect occupation both “militarily and politically,” said Samia AlHussain (not her real name), a Benghazibased lawyer. The planned 2021 elections were indefinitely postponed because the US and UK ambassadors did not want presidential elections with Saif Al-Islam Gaddafi, Muammar’s son, as the frontrunner.

The younger Gaddafi still enjoys wide support across the country and, in 2021, was cleared by the courts to run for president after initially being banned. If elections had taken place, as planned in December 2021, he would have been the inevitable winner. To prevent such an eventuality, both the former UK ambassador, Caroline Hurndall, and her American counterpart, Richard Norland, publicly spoke against his nomination.

Faced with public anger, the parliament, as opposed to the Foreign Ministry, was forced to declare Hurndall persona non grata specifically because of her comments on the elections. Yet, in another indication of the hidden occupation, she never left the country until her term ended last October. Norland was not even reprimand by the Libyan Foreign Ministry as would have been the case in other countries.

Why? Because he is America’s ambassador.

Despite being in the anti-Gaddafi camp, Al-Hussain pointed at the recently exposed secret meeting between the now-fugitive former Foreign Minister, Najal al-Mangoush, and her Israeli counterpart in Rome last August. She asks: “What Libyan interests would such normalization serve, and why would any Libyan official think of meeting a representative of the Zionist state, if not ordered from outside?” She added that Libya “takes enormous pride” in having supported Palestinians throughout its history. Hundreds of Libyans volunteered to fight in the first Palestine war in 1948. Al-Hussain also feels that Libya’s reaction to the Gaza war is “less than what is expected” from a country where Palestine is a sacred cause. Most Libyans think that their country should do more despite the government donating some $50 million dollars in aid to Gaza.

Musbah Adokali, a law student in Bani Walid, a Gaddafi stronghold, thinks Libyan leaders are receiving orders from outside and acting against the will of the people. He points out what happened to Libyan citizen Abu Agila Mas’ud, who was kidnapped and taken to the US to face charges of participating in the bombing of Pan AM Flight 103 35 years ago. The student said “this was done upon the orders of the US,” otherwise it would not have happened. “If this is not occupation, I do not know what is,” Musbah concluded.

Mustafa Fetouri, Libyan academic and award winning journalist and analyst.

ize that the era of large-scale, capital-intensive, and fossil-fuel powered supply schemes is already over. Our continuous reliance on them is fraught with huge risks as evident by the rapidly spiralling circular debt which by some estimates has crossed Rs 2.6 trillion already.

It’s time for Pakistan to recast its ESI and align it with the emerging technology and market trends. This calls for incentivizing small, distributed, and preferably renewable generation schemes, linking them through a smart grid, and supporting them by small-and-distributed as well as largeand-long-duration energy storage.

We will need to electrify our transport through a carefully planned electric vehicles (EVs) programme and the associated charging infrastructure. We will also need to substitute our oil- or gas-based industrial processes with self-generated or grid-supplied electricity. A critical thread that must run through all these endeavours is having an impactful energy conservation and efficiency improvement programme.

Achieving all these objectives, some of which may be mutually conflicting, will not be easy and will need visionary leadership, bold and politically difficult decisions, and a painstakingly devised set of policies and plans. It’s a must however as the nation can’t afford to let the business continue as usual.

The writer can at: msrahim@hotmail.com

Did Pakistan really back out of talks?

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PALWASHA AFTAB

HE Interim Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi during a conversation with Senator Mushahid Hussain on the sidelines of the conference on Palestine in Tehran claimed that most of the issues between Pakistan and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had been sorted out and that both were close to striking a deal but Islamabad backed out.

It is to be noted here that TTP unilaterally ended cease fire 28 November 2022 after appointment of present COAS. However, before that talks between the Govt of Pakistan (GOP) and the TTP had already come to a standstill due to various contentious demands of the TTP, the most pertinent of which were: 1) Discontinuation of the Pakistani military outposts in the NMDs, implying a complete withdrawal of troops.

2) Reversal of the 25th Constitutional Amendment of 2018 and an end to the merger of the NMDs into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

3) Enforcement of TTP’s version of the Shariah Law through the Nizam-i-Adl regulation in Malakand division, citing their rejection of the Pakistani constitution as un-Islamic 4) Freedom of movement for the TTP’s members without surrendering arms and activities in the Malakand division In other words, the conditions sought by the violent extremist group were in direct contradiction to Pakistan’s constitution. Yet, the Afghan Interim Govt has been insisting Pakistan to pursue peace talks with a tactically weak and ideologically opposed non-state actor, means GOP conceding to TTP’s implausible and unviable demands outlined above.

When the talks were underway, a temporary resettlement of TTP members was allowed for those who agreed to lay arms and accept the constitution of Pakistan. However, due to their clandestine connivance with Afghan Taliban, instead of adopting to a normal way of life those men resorted to their old ways and started regrouping.

This indicates that they were looking for opportunity to resettle their people in the garb of talks and once done, they withdrew from the pact and started to the fight again.

The reversal of the 25th Amendment of 2018 is the central point of contention between the GOP and the TTP as it potentiates issue of the status and treatment of the NMDs. A reversal of merger of NMDs would not only be a constitutional and democratic violation but will also have alarming ramifications not only for the governance and protection of the area and its people, but also for the state-society relations that have yet to be fully cultivated in what was once a territory neglected by the state, governed by the draconian FCR. Such a concession to the TTP would be seen as effectively ceding control of the region and its people to the TTP which therefore is unacceptable.

25th Amendment lays out a series of steps for full merger, such as the rehabilitation of IDPs, investments in infrastructure (both housing and commercial reconstruction), service delivery of socioeconomic development programs and above all a functional civil administrative

be

reached

setup corresponding to human and physical development in the area. Until then military may represent the state’s only option to engage the region effectively. Such commitments have been clearly officiated under the constitutional amendment.

While considering the first condition, it must be noted that there is a marked difference between military presence along the border and presence in the tribal belt for operations and other paramilitary functions. The former will continue to be the case for the foreseeable future but the TTP wants both to be reversed.

In the latter case, following the merger of the NMDs with KP, a reduction in military presence and operations may be feasible. However, the complete withdrawal of the military may not be. Any possibility of withdrawing deployed military (on borderlands or in NMDs) should be the result of an internal calculus facilitated by resource availability, improved economic and social indicators, the strict enforcement of the rule of law in the region, and regional cooperation by responsible state actors, and not the result of appeasing a terrorist group like the TTP. Additionally, the process of merger necessitates the establishment of elected local bodies and the introduction of judicial reforms to mainstream both the parliamentary and judicial processes in the region.

Hence, any degree of acceptance of this demand to enforce TTP’s own will in law and justice would imply complicating the terms and existential spirit of the merger. This would create a dual model of governance and consequently run the risk of non-constitutional institutions which would imply a violation of the primacy of the constitution and hence is non-negotiable.

The Shariah Nizam-i-Adl Regulation, 2009 (Order of Justice) is operational in Malakand division since April 2009 – a regulation that was passed by Pakistan’s central government that formally established Sharia law in the Malakand division and is technically still in effect. Hence, such a demand is implausible in its entirety.

Given the potential implications of GOP ceding to TTP’s demands, a peace deal with TTP is no more on the cards due to their earlier deception.

Accusing State of Pakistan for backing out of talks by Afghan FM is a clear representation of Afghan Taliban’s strategy to shift militants into Pakistan’s territory and create instability within erstwhile FATA, such an instability also serves their claim on Pakhtun areas of Pakistan.

Hence, a comment on international forum is not an isolated statement but a strategically thought out narrative.

Pakistan had set clear conditions for any deal with TTP that include: surrender arms, accept the writ of State, a fully functional state system would extend to NMDs, and FATA merger was and is still a red line. Hence, accepting any deal short of above conditions would amount to the weakening of Pakistan. Since there are no negotiations going on with the TTP, it is incumbent upon Afghan authorities to refrain from siding with the terrorist group, fulfill their neighbourly responsibility, take action against TTP elements and rein them in so that the terror threat against Pakistan from Afghan soil could be eliminated.

The writer is a freelance columnist

06 NEWS

PUSHING FORWARD THE CAUSE PIONEERED BY MAO BEST WAY TO PAY TRIBUTE: XI

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BEIJING

STAFF REPORT

HE Communist Party of China (CPC) commemorated 130th anniversary of the birth of People’s Republic of China’s founding leader Chairman Mao Zedong and the functions were largely attended by Chinese local governments and Chinese people across China.

From major cities like Beijing and Shanghai to Mao’s hometown of Shaoshan in Central China’s Hunan Province, as well as sacred revolutionary sites like Jinggangshan in East China’s Jiangxi Province and Yan’an in Northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, high-profile official and voluntary commemorations nationwide highlight the significance of Mao’s thoughts, spirit and legacies on all fronts to not only China, but also to a world in turbulence, as experts remarked. CPC Central Committee on Tuesday morning held a symposium to commemorate the 130th anniversary of the birth of Comrade Mao Zedong, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech at the symposium held in the Great Hall of the People in the heart of Beijing.

Xi stressed the importance of pushing

Thursday, 28 December, 2023 | KARACHI

forward the cause pioneered by Comrade Mao Zedong and called for efforts to build China into a stronger country and rejuvenate the Chinese nation on all fronts by pursuing Chinese modernization.

Mao Zedong Thought is an invaluable spiritual wealth for our Party and will guide our action in the long term, Xi said, underscoring that the best way to commemorate Comrade Mao Zedong is to continue to advance the cause pioneered by him.

Before the symposium, Xi and other members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Vice President Han Zheng, as well as other senior leaders of the Party and the state gathered at the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.

Xi and the leaders bowed three times to the seated statue of Comrade Mao and then went to pay homage to Comrade Mao’s body in the hall where his remains lie.

Xin Ming, a professor at the Party School of the CPC Central Committee, told the Global Times on Tuesday that “when it comes to round numbers like the 110th, 120th and 130th anniversaries, China will surely organize a high-profile commemoration to pay tribute to Mao, and Chinese people will voluntarily pay tribute to him because Mao had made tremendous contributions to the happiness that we have today and to the rejuvenation process of the Chinese nation.”

From 6 am on Monday to 5 pm on Tuesday, Mao’s birthplace of Shaoshan welcomed 111,570 tourists, the Global Times learned from local tourism authorities, an increase of 712.93 percent from 2022 and 13.92 percent from 2019.

The city’s tourism income on Monday and Tuesday reached 94.39 million yuan ($13.2 million), a 708.15 percent increase from 2022 and a 12.72 percent increase from 2019, as people from all over China flocked to Mao’s birthplace to commemorate the 130th anniversary of his birth on Tuesday.

The Global Times learned from authorities in Shaoshan that people from all over the country spontaneously flocked to Shaoshan

Winter smog blankets South Asian capitals of Dhaka, New Delhi DHAKA

AGENCIES

A thick layer of toxic smog wreathed Bangladesh’s capital of Dhaka on Wednesday as the air quality index plummeted into the “hazardous” category, while similar conditions prevailed in New Delhi, the capital of neighbouring India.

The air quality in Dhaka, one of the world’s most crowded cities with more

than 20 million people, has deteriorated as large projects spring up and fossil fuels get overused, bringing health problems for many. “We often suffer from asthma, fever and allergies while operating rickshaws on the streets,” said Rafiq Mondal, who pulls the traditional two-wheeled vehicles to earn his living. “It is often very painful.”

Images from drones equipped with cameras showed smog at 9 a.m. (0300

Actor Lee of Oscar-winning ‘Parasite’ found dead amid drugs probe SEOUL

AGENCIES

Lee Sun-kyun, a South Korean actor who drew global attention with his performance as the wealthy patriarch in the Oscar-winning film “Parasite”, was found dead on Wednesday in an apparent suicide in a Seoul park, officials in the capital said. Lee, 48, who met a gory end in the 2019 film, South Korea’s first to win any Oscar, had faced police questioning three times over accusations of illegal drug use amid a government crackdown, with one session running 19 hours over the weekend. The actor had said he was tricked into taking drugs by a bar hostess trying to blackmail him, the Yonhap news agency reported. Authorities found Lee in a search triggered by a missing person report, a fire official told Reuters on condition of anonymity, as the matter is a sensitive one. Lee was found in a car at a park in Seoul, after his manager told police the actor had left home, leaving behind an apparent suicide note, a police official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Lee’s agency, HODU&U Entertainment, did not respond to calls. However, domestic media cited a statement by the agency that expressed sadness at the death, while urging restraint regarding false information, speculation, or malicious reports. Infringements of South Korea’s tough drug laws can lead to six months in jail, or up to 14 years for repeat offenders and dealers. A dark-comedy thriller directed by Bong Joon-ho, “Parasite” won the Academy Award in 2020 in the four categories of best picture, best director, best original screenplay and best international feature film, off six Oscar nominations.

GMT) that put Dhaka in top spot among the world’s most polluted cities, with a “hazardous” index level of 325, Swiss group IQAir said.

But conditions improved slightly, with the index dropping to 177, in the “unhealthy” range, by 1.35 p.m. (0735 GMT). City authorities spray the streets with water to help the dust settle, but residents called for greater efforts.

The air pollution is taking its toll,”

to commemorate the birthday of the late Chinese leader. “It is out of pure affection and respect that the people hold for the chairman, and it just cannot be stopped,” said a local official who didn’t give his name.

In former revolutionary strongholds like Jinggangshan and Yan’an, commemorative events were held by local governments and ordinary people. And on social media networks, a huge number of netizens made comments to commemorate Mao in their own words. On Sina Weibo, China’s X-like social media platform, the hashtags about the 130th anniversary of Mao’s birth reached more than 300 million views and millions of comments as of press time.

said one of them, Wasim Akhter. “With all the mega projects like the metro rail overhead, there is a lot of construction material everywhere … Measures must be taken more seriously.”

In a year when smog briefly put Sydney on par with New Delhi, the World Bank has urged Bangladesh to co-ordinate more closely with neighbours in South Asia to clean up the air.

Air pollution, often a mix of solid particles, liquid droplets and gases, takes a toll of about a fifth of the country’s premature deaths each year, it said in a report. Some areas of Dhaka had levels of fine particulate matter as much as 20 times in excess of World Health Organization (WHO) standards, the report added.

Baghdad condemns US strike on Iraqi military positions BAGHDAD

AGENCIES

Iraq’s government on Tuesday condemned overnight US air strikes on Iraqi military positions that it said killed one serviceman and wounded 18 people, calling them a “clear hostile act”.

The United States carried out retaliatory air strikes on Monday in Iraq after a one-way drone attack earlier in the day by Iran-aligned militants that left one US service member in critical condition and wounded two others.

The government condemned the US strikes as “an unacceptable violation of Iraqi sovereignty” while stressing that attacks by armed groups against military bases hosting US-led coalition advisers are hostile acts and violate Iraqi sovereignty, a government statement said.

Two Iraqi security sources said overnight US strikes targeted the headquarters of Iraqi armed group Kataib Hezbollah in the Iraqi city of Hilla south of Baghdad.

One fighter from Kataib Hezbollah was killed in the strikes and 16 were wounded, said two security sources on condition of

anonymity.

The Iran-aligned Kataib Hezbollah criticised the government position for condemning the Iraqi militia attacks against the US-led coalition targets, a security official from the group said in a social media post. “…We warn those with weak souls, from the highest level to the lowest, not to test our patience,” Abu Ali al-Askari said.

In a clear challenge to the gov-

ernment of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, Askari vowed to continue attacks against US forces.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has limited control over some Iran-backed factions, whose support he needed to win power a year ago and who now form a powerful bloc in his governing coalition. Many of the factions also do not see eye-to-eye on actions against US forces.

A key reason why Mao is cherished greatly at present is that, at a time when China is shouldering rising pressures and hostility from the US and some of its allies, the people admire his courage, wisdom and determination to withstand and fight hegemony and imperialism, Xin noted. The outside world needs to correctly understand the strength and emotion behind the Chinese people’s commemoration of Chairman Mao. When answering why Mao and his works are popular among the youth in China today, Kang Tian, a student from Tsinghua University in Beijing, told the Global Times that “we young people find that Chairman Mao is not far from us, as we can talk to him by reading his works, and find solutions and energy when we encounter difficulties and challenges. In the Chairman’s mind, we, the youth, are warriors, creators and masters of the future.”

In his speech on Tuesday, Xi said that the life of Comrade Mao Zedong was one devoted to national prosperity, rejuvenation and people’s happiness. Mao led the people in blazing a trail for adapting Marxism to the Chinese context, forging the great, glorious and correct CPC and founding the New China with the people being masters of the country, Xi said. Xi said Mao is “a great man of the generation who led the Chinese people to completely change their own destiny and the appearance of the country,” and “is a great internationalist who made significant contributions to the liberation of the oppressed nations of the world and the cause

Refineries opt out Russian crude imports as furnace oil prices slide globally PROFIT

MONITORING DESK

Amid a global dip in furnace oil prices, local refineries in Pakistan are hesitating in importing Russian crude oil. The News reported, quoting industry sources, that the decreased demand for furnace oil, a by-product of Russian oil, has rendered the current pricing of Russian crude impractical for Pakistan’s hydro-skimming refineries. One source highlighted the need for a discounted price on Russian crude oil, given the reduced feasibility in the current market where furnace oil prices have plummeted from $80 per barrel to $60 per barrel since early December. Hydro skimming refineries in Pakistan primarily produce 55 percent of furnace oil from Russian crude oil, focusing on high-speed diesel and petrol. Facing a surplus of furnace oil, local refineries are actively seeking opportunities to sell in the global market as domestic demand for the fuel has dwindled. Industry officials expressed concerns about the impracticality of importing Russian crude oil when there is already a substantial quantity of furnace oil available for export at lower prices. Notably, the economic suitability of Russian crude oil for countries like India, with deep conversion refineries emphasizing diesel and petrol over fuel oil, was mentioned by another source. In an effort to manage their surplus, refineries have exported significant quantities of furnace oil in December. Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) exported 35,000 tonnes, Cnergyico exported over 70,000 tonnes, and Pak Arab Refinery (PARCO) exported 100,000 tonnes of fuel oil in the current month, according to industry sources. December sales data indicates a 34 percent decrease in fuel oil sales compared to the same month last year and a 33 percent drop from November this year. The deal between Pakistan and Russia for the supply of Russian crude oil was signed earlier this year, with the first order placed in April. PRL, which imported its initial 100,000-tonne cargo of Russian crude oil in June, has no plans for further imports

by March next year, according to a top official. Cnergyico Refinery imported two shipments totaling 110,000 tonnes of Russian crude oil in October and November. The current market dynamics and furnace oil surplus contribute to the cautious approach of local refineries towards further Russian crude oil imports.

Philippines urged not to pursue ‘wrong course’ at once on South China Sea issue BEIJING

MIAN ABRAR

After the Philippines repeatedly violated China’s sovereignty, and drew forces outside the region into the South China Sea issue, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated on Monday that the Southeast Asian country should stop pursuing the wrong course at once.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Monday that China will not weaken in its resolve to protect its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, after the Philippines repeatedly violated China’s sovereignty, spread false news and colluded with foreign forces to undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea. For months, the Philippines has been making provocations on Ren’ai Jiao (also known as Ren’ai Reef) and other issues and drawing forces outside the region into those issues.

China is compelled under those circumstances to take necessary measures to firmly respond to it, Mao said.

Mao noted that China’s door of dialogue remains open. “We are ready to work with the Philippines to properly handle maritime issues through negotiation and consultation. We hope the Philippines will stop pursuing the wrong course at once,” Mao said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said that the country is preparing for more joint pa-

trols with Japan and other countries in the South China Sea, after the Philippines already held a joint air and maritime patrol with the US and Australia, the Philippine Star reported on Monday.

According to Aguilar, the likely joint patrols between the Philippines and its allies may shift from the current bilateral arrangements to multilateral patrols in 2024 and beyond, meaning several countries will become involved.

“The attempt by the Philippines to conduct multilateral patrols indicates that the country believes its comprehensive strength, including in the economic and military fields, is weaker than that of China. If it provokes China alone, the Philippines believes it has no chance of winning, so it seeks to involve external powers on the South China Sea issue,” Gu Xiaosong, dean of the ASEAN Research Institute of Hainan Tropical Ocean University, told the Global

Times on Monday.

Gu noted that the US, along with some other countries outside the region, is currently playing a role of behind-the-scenes manipulation and support. However, the Philippines’ proposal to conduct joint patrols with these countries implies that they will be stepping out from behind the scenes and facing China in a more direct way, he said.

The AFP spokesperson also said that seeking multilateral patrols was part of a “paradigm shift” put forward by Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., referring to the approach needed by the country in the South China Sea issue, according to Reuters on December 19.

Wu Shicun, president of the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, said at the Global Times Annual Conference 2024 on Saturday that China-Philippines relations are facing unprecedented challenges, and may reach a point of no return during the Marcos Jr. administration.

Wu referred to the instance of security cooperation between the US and the Philippines against China being accelerated under the administration of Marcos Jr., while the Philippines has started a series of provocative incidents in the Ren’ai Jiao.

Given the US’ involvement, Wu noted that the US-led militarization of the South China Sea will intensify over the coming years, and the US will continue to be an important influencing factor in the South China Sea.

Thursday, 28 December, 2023 | KARACHI

CORPORATE CORNER

NTDC installs shunt reactor on 500 kV Guddu-Rahim Yar Khan transmission line LAHORE

staff report

The teams of National Transmission and Despatch Company Limited (NTDC) have installed a shunt reactor on 500 kV Guddu-Rahim Yar Khan Transmission Line to enhance power system stability.

The Shunt Reactor was installed on Bay-02 of Guddu - RYK transmission line and after all testing, the shunt reactor was energized successfully. NTDC is vigorously working on stability of the power transmission system, especially in the south region.

The newly installed shunt reactor will help to control power system voltage more efficiently and would enhance the overall power system stability of the NTDC network. Energization of the shunt reactor will not only improve the voltage profile of the system in the region but also enhance the operational performance of the system. It will also help improvement in the voltage profile of 500 kV Guddu-Rahim Yar Khan, 500 kV Guddu-Muzaffargarh transmission lines and the power evacuated from 747 MW Guddu power station. Managing Director NTDC, Engr. Dr. Rana Abdul Jabbar Khan has appreciated the efforts of Project Delivery (South) teams on completion of the project.

JazzCash to become the First Digital Wallet to bring Tap-and-Pay Service to Pakistan via Mastercard ISLAMABAD

staff report

JazzCash, a pioneering force in the fintech sector, is proud to announce its strategic collaboration with Mastercard, positioning itself as the first mobile wallet in Pakistan to bring tap-and-pay functionality and wallet tokenisation through Mastercard. The announcement made headwinds at Mastercard’s MENA East Business Forum, where JazzCash was recognised as "Mastercard's First Digital Front-End Partner”, making it the first to bring digital wallet tokenisation to Pakistan. This esteemed recognition solidifies JazzCash’s commitment to innovation and excellence in digital finance. Aamir Aftab, Chief Product Officer at JazzCash, said, "Our collaboration with Mastercard and the introduction of tap and pay functionality through JazzCash exemplify our commitment to spearheading innovation in the financial technology sector. We are thrilled to be the first in Pakistan to bring tap-and-pay technology to Pakistan, providing our users with a secure and convenient payment experience." Mastercard's Digital Front End (DFE), a cutting-edge, plugand-play, mobile application-based platform, is the key enabler of this groundbreaking service.

JazzCash will be integrating this technology, marking a significant step in bringing wallet tokenisation to Pakistan.

SBP declares BOK as e-stamping agent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa PESHAWAR

staff report

Bank of Khyber (BoK) and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) signed an Agency Agreement in Peshawar to initiate the revolutionary e-Stamping project and designated BoK as collecting Agent for e-Stamping in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This initiative aligns with the Government of KP’s vision of promoting digital services and ensuring ease of doing business in the province. Embracing the power of technology, citizens of KP can now obtain stamp papers effortlessly within minutes, at the click of a button, thanks to a seamless process offered by BoK. The e-Stamping project will be rolled out across the province phase wise and will enhance revenue collection while providing complete data reconciliation. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Ahmed Rasool Bangash, Minister for Finance, Revenue, Excise, Taxation & Narcotics Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; Mr. Qadir Bakhsh, Director Finance State Bank of Pakistan; Mr. Aamir Tareen, Secretary Finance Government of Khyber Pakhtunkwa; Sahibzada Ali Muhammad, Managing Director Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Information Technology; Mr. Irfan Saleem Awan, acting Managing Director / CEO Bank of Khyber; Mr. Sher Muhammad, Group Head Conventional Banking BoK; Mr. Ihsan Ullah Ihsan, Group Head Remedial Assets Management BoK; Mr. Asim Bashir, Group Head Digital Banking BoK; senior officials from KP Government, State Bank of Pakistan, KP-IT Board, Board of Revenue and Bank of Khyber. The advantages of E-Stamping system are numerous. It will not only provide convenience to the public and save time but E-Stamping will also eliminate paper and process related fraudulent practices, leakage of government revenue and will also store information in digital form to ensure transparency. The system is hasslefree and quick and prevents frauds by allowing online verification of the judicial & non-judicial stamp papers and their re-use.

07

EXPORTS TO MIDDLE EAST SURGE BY 29% TO $1.26BN IN JULY, NOVEMBER NEWS

IN PREVIOUS FISCAL YEAR, PAKISTAN'S EXPORTS TO MIDDLE EAST HAD CONTRACTED BY 12.62% TO $2.332B FROM $2.669B IN PRECEDING YEAR PROFIT

News Desk

Pakistan’s exports to the Middle East experienced robust growth, rising by 28.98% to $1.257 billion in the first five months of the current fiscal year, compared to $974.50 million from the same period last year.

The surge in demand was notably observed from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, according to data compiled by the State Bank of Pakistan.

During the period under review, exports to Qatar witnessed a decrease, while the government’s recent signing of

a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is expected to further facilitate Pakistan’s exports to the region.

In the previous fiscal year (FY23), Pakistan’s exports to the Middle East had contracted by 12.62% to $2.332 billion from $2.669 billion in the preceding year. Imports also saw a decline of 7.24%, totaling $17.488 billion in FY23 compared to $18.853 billion in the previous year.

Exports to Saudi Arabia recorded a notable increase of 50% in July-November of FY24, reaching $275.65 million from $183.73 million over the corresponding months of the previous year.

Saudi Arabia stands as Pakistan’s second-largest market in the region after the UAE. In FY23, exports to Saudi Arabia had risen by 13.1% to $503.40 million from $420.40 million in the preceding fiscal year.

Meanwhile, exports to the UAE saw a significant rise of 33%, totaling $817.978 million in the first five months of FY24 from $614.864 million over the corresponding months of the previous year. This rebound follows a decline of 20.23% to $1.474 billion in FY23 from $1.848 billion in the corresponding months of FY22.

The bulk of exports to the UAE was destined for Dubai, amounting to

Organic Meat Company approves expansion plan of production facilities PROFIT

$655.90 million during July-November FY24, showing an increase of 17.59% from $557.77 million in the corresponding period last year.

Top export products to the UAE include rice, bovine carcasses, men’s/boys’ cotton ensembles, guavas, and mangoes, while top sectoral exports include cereals, articles of apparel and clothing, meat, and edible offal.

Exports to Kuwait increased by 7.4% to $51.81 million during July-November FY24 from $48.24 million over the corresponding months of the previous year. On the other hand, exports to Qatar declined by 15.84% to $96.66 million in the same period from $83.44 million during FY23. Additionally, exports to Bahrain also declined by 6.35% to $29.04 million in 5MFY24 from $31.01 million over the corresponding period last year.

KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi offers internships to Turbat University students KARACHI

News Desk

The Board of Directors (BoD) of The Organic Meat Company Limited (TOMCL), a Pakistani meat processor, has greenlit an expansion plan for production facilities and company upgradation, as revealed in a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday.

According to the statement, TOMCL is set to undergo a substantial expansion of its existing meat chilling and freezing capacities, involving an increased investment of Rs600 million.

The revised capital expenditure budget sees an additional Rs150 million from the initially approved estimates.

The company anticipates that this expansion will enable it to broaden its business presence for current and future boneless frozen, heat-treated, and cooked frozen beef export orders.

The targeted international markets include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Central Independent States

staff report

(CIS), Iraq, and China.

TOMCL’s management envisions significant growth opportunities in these markets, aligning the current expansion with these expectations.

In the notice addressed to PSX, it is mentioned that the management foresees significant positive impact of the expansion plan of the Company’s business as well as generating favorable future value for its shareholders.

Engaged in the processing, sale, and export of halal meat and allied products, TOMCL has pre-

viously secured contracts to export frozen boneless beef to the UAE and, in April, contracts for pet food to Canada and meat products to Uzbekistan.

While the Middle East remains a major export market for TOMCL, the company’s portfolio expansion, including pet food raw materials, has facilitated entry into the US and European markets.

Additionally, TOMCL maintains a significant presence in the Far East, Commonwealth of Independent States, and South Asian markets.

PSX rebounds after record plunge, closes above 60,000 mark PROFIT

News Desk

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a strong recovery on Wednesday as the benchmark KSE-100 index surged by 2.86%, or 1,692.65 points, to close at 60,863.62 level.

The rally came after a historic slump on Tuesday, when the index plunged by 4.11%, or over 2500

points, the biggest single-day drop in its history.

The rebound was driven by value buying across the board, especially in index-heavy sectors such as automobile, chemical, banking, fertilizer, oil and gas, property and refineries.

Investors shrugged off the volatility that had gripped the market in the past two weeks, when the index lost nearly 10% from its all-time high of 66,427 on December 12.

Mayor Murtaza Wahab bays tribute to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto KARACHI

staff report

Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab has paid tribute to Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto for her services in strong words and said that December 27 was the saddest day in the history of Pakistan when she was taken away from her millions of admirers and the voice of democracy was forever silenced.

The martyrdom of Bibi is an irreparable loss not only to Pakistan but also to the world of Islam.

A brave woman who fought for the real freedom of the people and strengthening the state was martyred, Shaheed Bibi returned home to fight the cause of the people.

He said this in his statement on the occasion of the death anniversary of Shaheed Ms. Benazir Bhutto. Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab said that every worker of Ms. Benazir Bhutto pledges allegiance to Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. We are determined to fulfill the mission of Shaheed Bibi under the leadership of his beloved son Bilawal Bhutto.

He said that we will have to adopt the philosophy of Shaheed Bibi that the source of power is the people and only the people and on this day we pledge that until each and every worker of Pakistan People's Party will continue their struggle until the state of Pakistan runs according to the constitution and law and democracy became strengthened in our country.

A delegation of the Department of Chemistry of the University of Turbat, Balochistan, visited the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), and Dr A.Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE) of the University of Karachi on Tuesday. Three faculty members, 17 male and 15 female students all from the final year of the BS and MSc programs were part of the three-day study tour to Karachi. They also met the KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi at KIGBE and shared their experiences regarding the visit to two centers of excellence institutes of the University of Karachi. On this occasion, the KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi offered on-hand training programs and internships to the students of the University of Turbat. He said that the KU would also provide accommodation, logistics, and transportation facilities to the students visiting the KU from Balochistan. He also offered that the KU Centralized Science Lab will provide free of cost facilities to the students of Turbat University and shared that the KU would like to start a lecture series for them so that they could learn from the experiences of KU faculty.

The KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi asked the students to educate at least one child in their respective areas to bring a change in society. He said that providing education to the masses is the way forward for Pakistan and all educational institutions should play their role in this regard. He termed that Balochistan and some other parts of the country are still underdeveloped so this is our responsibility to help them in every possible way. He also offered that the MPhil and PhD students of the University of Turbat could have co-supervisors from the University of Karachi.

Promoting education top priority of govt: CM Arshad MANSEHR

staff repoert

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Chief Minister, Justice Retired Syed Arshad Hussain Shah has said that promotion of education is the top priority of the government for which all resources are being utilized.Addressing a ceremony held in connection with distribution of laptops among students at Hazara University Mansehra under Prime Minister's Laptop Scheme, he said that it was need of the hour to harmonize the higher education sector with the modern requirements and to replace the traditional courses of the community with market courses, for which the integrated efforts are inevitable. CM Arshad Hussain said that a program was being launched for unemployed youth to send them abroad for employment and for this purpose special courses were being organized to prepare 500,000 youth keeping in view the demand of foreign markets. He said that solid measures were being taken to help the universities of province getting rid of financial crisis in cooperation of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Islamabad.Speaking on the occasion, Chairman HEC Dr Mukhtar Ahmed said that acquiring knowledge was first universal message to Muslims and due to neglecting it, the Muslim Ummah was lagging in race of development and progress. In order to join the ranks of developed countries, it was necessary for us to correct our direction and bring Pakistani youth forward in the field of higher education so that the dream of national development can be fulfilled, he added.

Bank lending to private sector stays negative, highlighting economic challenges PROFIT

News Desk

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released data indicating that bank lending to the private sector remained negative in the first half of the current fiscal year, reflecting a challenging economic growth scenario.

From July 1 to December 15, the private sector retired its debts, with a net debt retirement of Rs41 billion compared to net borrowing of Rs141 billion during the same period last year.

Bank advances to the private sector sharply declined to just Rs208 billion in FY23 compared to Rs1,329.7 billion in FY22, contributing to GDP contraction in the year. Currently, most

macro indicators are portraying a grim economic outlook, with banks opting for substantial investments in riskfree, high-yielding government papers, yielding returns of more than 22%.

Despite the government’s economic growth target of 2-3% for the current fiscal year, Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) production contracted by 4.08% in October on a year-on-year basis.

The negative growth was mainly attributed to sectors such as textile, paper and board, iron and steel products, electrical equipment, automobiles, and furniture. LSM output contracted by 0.4% during July-October FY24, according to PBS data.

Analysts expressed surprise at the economic challenge, questioning how

the economy could grow without a supply of liquidity. Negative lending to the private sector is attributed to the high cost of borrowing, causing banks to hesitate in lending money to the private sector, given the 22% policy interest rate.

Some bankers suggest that the recent equity market rally attracted significant amounts from banks, helping them generate more profits before the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experienced a substantial correction, losing over 11% since December 12. Banks also managed to avoid a 40% tax on windfall profits after obtaining stay orders from the courts.

Analysts note that the government’s heavy borrowing from banks leaves little room for the private

sector. The allure of risk-free substantial profits from government papers is cited as one of the reasons for the reluctance to lend to the private sector.

Commercial banks reported a net debt retirement of Rs51.4 billion compared to net lending of Rs262 billion in the same period last fiscal year.

However, Islamic banking branches of commercial banks recorded a net lending of Rs13.1 billion to the private sector, contrasting with a net debt retirement of Rs151 billion in the same period of FY23.

Despite this, Islamic banks also noted poor performance, with net debt retirement of Rs2.6 billion during this period against net lending of Rs31.4 billion in the same period of FY23.

Thursday, 28 December, 2023

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SC procedures act 'strengthened judiciary', apex court notes ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday issued its detailed judgment on the Supreme Court (Practice & Procedure Act), 2023, observing the legislation neither violates the Constitution in any manner, or undermines the Supreme Court, nor does it compromise independence of the judiciary, rather it strengthened the judiciary and created greater independence.

On October 11, the SC by a majority 10 is to 5 declared the Supreme Court (Practice &

Procedure Act 2023) as valid. The majority judgment, authored by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa and endorsed by nine members of the bench, observes: “The Act does not in any manner violate the Constitution, or undermine the Supreme Court, nor does it compromise the independence of the judiciary.”

It maintained that, “The Constitution empowers Parliament to legislate with regard to making the practice and procedure of the Supreme Court as it specifically stipulated in Article 191. Parliament enacted the Act which does not in any manner infringe any of the

Fundamental Rights, rather facilitates their enforcement. The Act also grants an appeal to one who is aggrieved by a decision of the Supreme Court which is passed in exercise of the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court under Article 184(3) of the Constitution.

“A standard good worldwide practice and the Injunctions of Islam, require that an appeal be provided and when two interpretations are possible, the one that conforms with the Injunctions of Islam shall be adopted.

“Article 175(2) of the Constitution envisages the conferment of jurisdiction. A larger

Bench of the Supreme Court has been conferred with this additional jurisdiction of appeal which fully accords with the Constitution.”

The judgment noted that, “We have very carefully considered each and every provision of the Act, and are of the view that it has facilitated access to justice, instilled transparency, made the realization of Fundamental Rights more effective and the Supreme Court more independent. The office of the Chief Justice has also been strengthened as there is an element of continuity when consultation takes place with the two most senior Judges. The measures

taken in the Act ensure judicial independence, and the Supreme Court has been made to better serve the people; we endorse the following definition of judicial independence.”

It further maintained that the “Supreme Court comprises of the Chief Justice and all the Judges of the Supreme Court. The Constitution does not grant to the chief Justice power to decide cases unilaterally and arbitrarily. The Chief Justice cannot substitute his wisdom with that of the Constitution. Nor can the Chief Justice’s opinion prevail over that of the Judges of the Supreme Court.

Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen attended the meeting. The caretaker foreign minister, secretary to the PM and the foreign secretary were also present, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

PM Anwaarul Kakar shared Pakistan’s perspective on a number of issues, particularly the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territories. Other challenges confronting the Muslim world such as Islamophobia were also discussed. The prime minister emphasized the need for the Muslim Ummah to continue to work closely and col-

lectively, especially through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to deal with these complex issues. He also praised the ambassadors for their efforts to forge stronger ties between Islamabad and their respective capitals. The ambassadors thanked the prime minister and reiterated their support towards advancing bilateral relations with Pakistan, which played a key role in the Muslim world.

‘5TH MEETING OF BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF SPECIAL TECHNOLOGY ZONES AUTHORITY (STZA)’ Meanwhile, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Wednesday said the government was taking steps to boost foreign investment in the Information Technol-

ogy sector. “In this regard positive progress has already been made,” the prime minister said while chairing the 5th meeting of Board of Governors of Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA).

In a bid to promote and develop IT sector in the country, he directed the concerned authorities to chalk out necessary policies to attract the international IT experts in Pakistan. PM Kakar highlighted that the Information Technology sector could play vital role in strengthening the country’s economy as Pakistan had huge potential in this sector.

During the meeting, various matters linked to the Special Technology Zones Authority came under discussion. The meeting

endorsed the decisions concluded during the 4th meeting of the Board of Governors of Special Technology Authority. The meeting also approved the re-structuring of the finance, audit and technical committees of the Board of Governors of the Authority.

Furthermore, the meeting also approved the presentation of drafts of the Authority’s licensing framework, procedures and face regulations before the technical committee.

Federal Secretaries of Cabinet, Finance, Information Technology, Science and Technology, Chief Secretaries of all the provinces and other Board members attended the meeting.

PROMOTION OF FRATERNAL TIES WITH MUSLIM WORLD TOP PRIORITY: PM

C

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has said that promoting fraternal ties with Muslim World particularly with countries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region was top priority of Pakistan.

Speaking during a meeting with resident Ambassadors of Muslim countries from the MENA region over lunch on Wednesday, he said these ties were anchored in mutual trust, common understanding and close cooperation on bilateral as well as regional matters of common interest. Ambassadors of Bahrain,

ECP to set up over 92,000 polling stations for NA, PA seats across country

Former Sindh governor alleges Ishaq Dar of reversing privatisation of loss-making SOEs PROFIT

MonitoRing DeSk

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has chalked out the final draft of polling stations for general elections to be held on February 08, 2024. According to the draft, over 92,000 polling stations would be set up across country. The polling scheme would be issue 15 days before the polling day i-e February 08. For 438 National and Provincial Assembly constituencies of Punjab, 51,821 polling stations would be set up across province. While, for 191 National and Provincial Assembly constituencies, the total number of polling stations would be 19,236.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 737 polling stations would be established for 160 National and Provincial Assembly seats. For 66 National and Provincial Assembly seats of Balochistan, 5,015 polling stations would be established. In Islamabad, 990 polling stations would be set up for three National Assembly constituencies.

PHC names five judges for appellate tribunals

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader and former governor of Sindh Muhammad Zubair said that the privatisation process for three state-owned entities – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) – was reversed, alleging the then Finance Minister Ishaq Dar of ‘deliberately’ halting the process despite having received bids.

While talking to a private television channel, Muhammad Zubair claimed that the decision to privatise these entities was made in October 2015, and bids were received for FESCO, the power distribution company.

He said that the PML-N-led government reached the last stage in the process of PIA’s privatisation, but unfortunately the process was halted.

According to Zubair, the board, which halted the process, was headed by former finance minister, Ishaq Dar. “Despite receiving bids, Dar halted the privatisation process,” he alleged.

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DECISION TO PRIVATISE THREE STATE ENTITIES WAS MADE IN OCTOBER 2015 AND BIDS WERE RECEIVED FOR FESCO, CLAIMS MUHAMMAD ZUBAIR

He alleged that Dar played a role in the handover of PSM to the Sindh government, citing political obstacles in the privatisation efforts. “There is no other way than privatisation of loss-making entities,” Zubair said, adding that the people of Pakistan were bearing billions in losses of the state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

He pointed out that former chief justice Iftikhar Chaudhry halted the privatisation of Pakistan Steel Mills for seven years, which caused a huge loss to the national exchequer and the decision portrayed Pakistan’s negative image before global investors.

“Foreign companies, including ones from China, had expressed interest in PSM, and its privatisation would have benefitted Pakistan,” he said.

Zubair said that PML-N had constituted the best privatisation board, which also took important decisions. It was in our manifesto that up to 70% of institu-

tions should be privatised.

He pointed out three big loss-making companies – PIA, Pakistan Steel Mills, and FESCO – which, according to him, were causing financial problems to the country. It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan has a total of 212 state-owned entities, 85 out of which are commercial entities. A recent report published by the

Khawaja Asif sends Rs1b defamation notice to Usman Dar, mother

PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

Peshawar High Court has constituted tribunals to hear appeals of election candidates against returning officers decisions. The high court has nominated five judges for election tribunals. Additional Registrar (admin) Hidayatullah has forwarded the circular to the election commission. According to the court order, Justice Shakeel Ahmed has been nominated election tribunal judge for Peshawar, while Justice Naeem Anwar has been named for the high court’s Mingora branch. Justice Kamran Hayat Miankhel will hear appeals in Abbottabad, Justice Muhammad Faheem Wali in DI Khan bench tribunal and Justice Fazal Subhan at high court bench Bannu. The election tribunal judges will hear objections and appeals against returning officers decisions. After submission of nomination papers, returning officers conducting scrutiny of the nomination papers, which will remain continue till December 30. The polling will be held on February 08, 2024.

SIALKOT

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) central leader Khawaja Asif has sent a Rs1 billion defamation notice to former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Usman Dar and his mother.

The notice stated that Dar and his mother levelled false allegations to defame Asif. The defamation notice called on Dar and his mother, Rehana Dar, to pay Rs1 billion in damages within 14 days.

Both politicians hail from Sialkot and they contested the 2018 elections from the National Assembly’s NA-73 constituency — and Asif defeated Dar. After a raid on Dar’s house earlier in the month, Rehana accused Asif of orchestrating the police action and being manhandled by the raiding party.

In a video statement, Dar’s mother

said that her house was broken into by people who manhandled her, pulled her hair, and tore her shirt.

“When they heard that I was submitting my nomination papers, they [Asif] sent 20 people to my house,” she had claimed. She also appealed to the

Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa to take action on the matter.

Earlier, PML-N stalwart Asif said Dar seemingly wishes to restore his tumbling reputation after quitting politics.

Responding to the allegations, Asif had said that if nomination papers were snatched from any PTI candidate then they could simply get new ones. “The PTI is misrepresenting [facts]. They are running away from the elections.”

He had categorically denied the allegations multiple times, saying that he had nothing to do with “such vengeful politics” and always respected his political rivals and their families.

Sialkot District Police Officer (DPO) Hasan Iqbal had also issued a video message to confirm the raid to arrest an “absconding suspect Umar Dar” — Usman’s brother.

He dispelled the claims of physical assault on the women during the raid.

New national agency to combat cybercrime ISLAMABAD

ghulaM abbaS

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Dr. Umar Saif underscored the gravity of cybercrime and the imperative for robust countermeasures during a statement on Wednesday. Speaking at the “Digital Pakistan Cybersecurity Hackathon 2023” prize distribution ceremony, he emphasized the need for effective handling of cyber threats.

The event held here on Wednesday, orchestrated by the National Technology Fund (Ignite), a subsidiary of the IT and Telecommunication Ministry, witnessed Dr. Saif’s insights into the challenges posed by cybercrime. The minister acknowledged the importance of safeguarding Pakistan’s cyberspace under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act

(PECA) but pointed out that the existing cybercrime wing of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) might not be sufficient.

Dr. Saif disclosed the recent establishment of a dedicated agency, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), to replace the FIA for handling

cyber crimes. The federal cabinet granted approval for NCCIA’s formation on December 13, with allocated funds to ensure the agency possesses the necessary expertise and resources for preventing, investigating, and prosecuting cybercrimes in Pakistan He emphasized the gradual transition of authority from FIA’s Cybercrime wing to NCCIA, clarifying that cybercrime, online transactions, cyber-bullying, protection of online data, and other citizen services fall under the state’s responsibility. Dr. Saif asserted that NCCIA would serve as an effective platform to secure Pakistan’s cyberspace, public and private institution data, business transactions, and online activities.

Asim Shehryar Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of IGNITE, outlined efforts to identify and nurture talent capable of countering malicious cyber attempts on national networks. Hussain noted progress in estab-

lishing operational readiness for Pakistan’s National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT) and the forthcoming institutionalization of a Cyber Security Authority. He stressed the importance of public awareness about cybersecurity and highlighted the success of Pakistani teams in international cyber-security competitions.

Hussain proudly mentioned that six Pakistani teams participated in Blackhat’s cyber-security competition in Saudi Arabia in November, with four of them ranking in the top 35 out of 250 international teams.

He emphasized the pivotal role of education in shaping a safer digital space, citing the achievements as a testament to the high caliber of participants and the success of ongoing initiatives. This underscores the collective efforts to fortify Pakistan’s cybersecurity landscape and cultivate a vigilant, knowledgeable community adept at thwarting cyber threats.

World Bank has named Pakistan’s SOEs as the worst in Asia.

Since the financial year 2014-15, Pakistan’s SOEs have been in a net loss.

Every year, the loss gets higher. As of FY18, Pakistan recorded a cumulative total of Rs286 billion in net losses incurred by SOEs. It is important to remember that net losses also account for all the SOEs that have made a profit. The projections after 2019 are missing in the report but it is no secret that the net profit of the SOEs of Pakistan is still below 0.

The World Bank report revealed that Pakistan’s SOEs eat more than Rs458 billion in public funds annually just to stay afloat and their combined loans and guarantees rose to almost 10 percent of GDP or Rs5.4 trillion in FY21, up from 3.1 percent of GDP (Rs 1.05 trillion) in 2016.

The report deems the SOEs of Pakistan as the worst in Asia.

Lahore police arrest over 900 in city-wide operation against encroachments LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

Lahore Police, in collaboration with the district administration, has launched a comprehensive operation against encroachments, leading to the arrest of over 900 individuals and the registration of 218 cases across the city’s six divisions. According to Police spokesperson, CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamiana led the charge, detailing the operation’s progress. He stated that while 29 cases and 216 arrests were made in City Division, Cantt Division followed closely with 29 cases and 231 arrests. Civil Lines, Sadar, Iqbal Town, and Model Town also saw significant action, with the respective tallies reflecting the widespread nature of the issue. CCPO Kamiana emphasized the Lahore Police’s unwavering support for the district government’s initiative, assuring citizens that the operation would continue unabated until the city is rid of unauthorized encroachments.

He stressed the detrimental impact of these encroachments on both public well-being and the city’s aesthetic appeal, highlighting the disruption they cause to traffic flow and overall urban beauty. Appealing to residents’ sense of civic responsibility, the CCPO urged them to refrain from engaging in any form of encroachment. He assured citizens that eliminating these obstacles would significantly improve traffic flow and contribute to a more pleasant and vibrant urban environment for all.

Election body accepts Javed Hashmi’s nomination papers MULTAN

Staff RepoRt

The Election Commission has accepted the nomination papers of senior politician Makhdoom Javed Hashmi for National Assembly constituency NA-149. This was announced by concerned Returning Officer (RO) on Wednesday. The RO said that Javed Hashmi’s nomination papers for NA-149 have been accepted after complete scrutiny.

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