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CPEC JOURNEY TO MOVE FORWARD; DETRACTORS TO LOSE RELEVANCE VERY SOON: PM KAKAR Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 I 20 Jamada Al-Awal, 1445

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PM INAUGURATES PAK-CHINA FRIENDSHIP HOSPITAL, GWADAR SEAWATER DESALINATION PLANT

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CHINESE ENVOY SAYS BOTH CHINA FUNDED PROJECTS WOULD UPLIFT LIVING STANDARD OF PEOPLE OF GWADAR

PM urges UAE investors to explore opportunities in Pakistani markets ABU DHABI

STAFF REPORT

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GWADAR STAFF REPORT

ARETAKER Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Monday urged the people of Balochistan, particularly, the youth to avail the historic opportunity of development in their province as the detractors of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) were about to lose their relevance very soon.

The prime minister, addressing the inauguration ceremony of Pak-China Friendship Hospital and Gwadar Seawater Desalination Plant here, said the journey of CPEC would surely move forward, not the backward, so joining the development course would be a prudent decision.

“Those who think to change the course (of CPEC) by force, violence or any other means are committing historic

blunder as their relevance will be over very soon. The prudent decision in the nation’s fate is to joint the course of development, instead of resisting it and miss the opportunity,” he remarked.

The ceremony was attended by federal ministers Sami Saeed and Shahid Ashraf Tarar, Caretaker Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Ai Mardan Domki, Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan Jiang Zaidong and the Chinese and Pakistani officials attended the event.

The prime minister said the ease in the form of reduced travel durations across the province was just due to CPEC intervention.

He told the gathering that trade worth $36 trillion was expected to take place in and around China in the near future, therefore it was a must to join the journey through skill development and claim the share, instead of showing hostility.

SC moved for contempt against defence secretary over military courts ruling violation ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The civil society on Monday sought contempt proceedings against the defense secretary for “deliberately and malafidely” violating the Supreme Court’s (SC) October 23 judgment, declaring the trials of civilians in military courts as unconstitutional.

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

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

It states that Secretary of Defense Lt Gen (retd) Hamood Uz Zaman Khan ‘deliberately’ violated an order passed in October declaring military trials of civilians under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952, as “unconstitutional”.

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

The civil society members also stated that the violator had failed to issue an order for the transfer of custody of the accused persons to the criminal court.

The petition put forth the demand to end the continuing detention with military authorities as “unconstitutional”, terming it a clear violation of court orders.

The petition requested immediate compliance with the previous order to uphold the “majesty of law”, as stated.

Rs 50.00 | Vol XIV No 156 I 40 Pages I Islamabad Edition

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ulHaq Kakar has urged the UAE investors to explore the Pakistani market for new avenues and enhance economic and commercial ties with Pakistan.

In an exclusive interview with newspaper Gulf Today, he said there are numerous investment opportunities available in Pakistan for UAE investors.

The caretaker premier said Pakistan enjoys a very historic, cultural and fraternal relationship with the UAE. The two countries could further enhance this cooperation in areas such as agriculture, energy, mining, IT, logistics and defence.

He said Pakistan is planning a comprehensive investment promotion strategy in major countries including the UAE. Pakistan Investment Road Show, organized by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in Dubai, attracted a large number of global businessmen and investors.

The officials of SIFC held extensive engagements with global investors, highlighting immense potential and inHe said the journey of China’s modernisation was significance and steering millions of people out of poverty was unprecedented.

The prime minister said that the de-

vestment opportunities in Pakistan, he added.

Utilizing the platform, 30 Pakistani firms presented their project proposals and growth strategies encompassing various domains including Agriculture, IT and Energy, Kakar continued.

Responding to a question, the caretaker premier said Pakistan wholeheartedly appreciates the efforts of the UAE government in hosting the COP28.

Alluding to the challenge posed by climate change, he said all affected countries urgently need to shift to Climate Adaptation.

He asserted that this decade is decisive for climate action. Failure to act immediately will lead to worse devastation on an unprecedented scale.

He said implementing the commitments is essential for which framing the means of implementation is pivotal.

“We need to adopt a framework which is based on fast track energy transition and agreement on climate finance goal,” he said, adding that the developing countries require around 2.4 trillion dollars in annual investment by 2030 focusing on adaptation, resilience and mitigating loss and damage.

velopment of China had a positive impact across the region, particularly Pakistan and its Balochistan province.

Imran wants ‘US envoy, ex-general’ summoned in cypher case trial: Babar

CONTINUED ON PAGE 03

ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf counsel Babar Awan on Monday said that party chief Imran Khan wants the “US envoy and an ex-army general” summoned by the special court hearing the cypher case trial.

Speaking to the media, Babar added Imran said that “US embassy representatives should also be called and took the name of a former army general”.

During the hearing today, the special court established under the Official Secrets Act decided to indict PTI leaders Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case.

The court presided over by Judge Abdul Hasnat Zulqarnain in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, decided that charges would be filed afresh during the next hearing on December 12 as the court has directives from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to complete proceedings in a month.

Both party leaders are being tried under Sections 5 and 9 of the Official Secrets Act 1923.

Last year on March 27, 2022, ahead of a vote of no-confidence in the National Assembly that re-

sulted in his ouster, then-premier Imran had pulled out a piece of paper – allegedly the classified cypher – from his pocket and waved it at a public gathering in Islamabad, claiming it was evidence of an “international conspiracy” being hatched to topple his government.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) booked and arrested Imran and former minister Qureshi for “wrongful use” of official secret information and illegal retention of the cypher telegram with malafide intentions.

PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who had served as the country’s foreign

minister during PTI’s rule, was arrested by the FIA on August 19.

The agency arrested Imran on August 29.

While the copies of the challan were distributed to the former PTI chairman and his aide during the session today, the charges would be filed at the next hearing.

At the previous hearing on December 4, Qureshi told the judge that the president had not given his assent to the amendments made to the Official Secrets Act, 1923 by the PML-N-led government at the tail-end of its term.

He further requested the court to summon the president to the court to testify in the cypher case.

IN TODAY’S ISSUE

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Senate body deliberates on TCP’s Rs260bn debt challenge g

CAPPING RAW SALT EXPORTS AND KINNOW EXPORT STRATEGY ALSO DISCUSSED PROFIT

GHULAM ABBAS

Disconcerting revelations have emerged in a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce held at Parliament House on Monday. It was revealed that the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP), an integral department under the Ministry of Commerce, is entangled in unpaid debt obligations of approximately Rs 260 billion.

In the meeting chaired by senator Zeeshan Khanzada, a comprehensive strategy was discussed to address the debt repayment issues of the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP). The committee scrutinized the outstanding dues owed by TCP to various government entities, encompassing commercial bank loans and accrued markup, totaling a substantial 259.26 billion Pakistani rupees. The breakdown included a principal amount of 105.51 billion rupees and 153.74 billion rupees in markup.

During the session, the Chairman of TCP provided insights into the corporation’s efforts towards debt recovery. Notable initiatives included third-party audits on subsidy payments and consistent reminders to recipient agencies. To streamline the process, directives were issued to concerned ministries, urging them to submit summaries to the Finance Division reflecting the payables to TCP in their financial demands for FY 2013-2024.

The Chairman further highlighted ongoing efforts involving recurrent meetings with Finance Divisions and relevant federal and provincial recipients.

Despite these efforts, the matter was deferred for further reporting, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to a speedy and equitable resolution of the financial predicament. The Committee concluded that discussions will persist until a conclusive resolution is achieved. Simultaneously, the committee shifted its focus to enhancing kinnow (Tangerine) exports. Officials highlighted that Pakistan predominantly exports kinnows to Afghanistan, UAE, Russia, Philippines, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia. Despite a decline in kinnow exports last season due to floods, the Ministry aims for a substantial rebound, setting an ambitious export target of $150 million for the current season.

Deputy Chairman Senate, Mirza Muhammad Afridi, proposed expanding export destinations to include South Korea, citing potential demand. He further advocated for domestic exhibitions to raise awareness among locals about the demand for these products. The Committee Chairman recommended the Ministry devise a specific export strategy for oranges, predominantly produced in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In addition to the financial challenges faced by TCP, the Senate Committee also discussed the “Imports and Exports (Control) Amendment Bill, 2023.” Introduced

by Senators Zeeshan Khanzada, Faisal Saleem Rehman, and Muhammad Abdul Qadir, the amendment proposes restrictions on the export of raw salt, urging the Federal Government to impose conditions.

The Ministry argued that the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950, serves as the primary legal instrument regulating international trade in Pakistan. The Ministry emphasized that inclusion-wise prohibitions and restrictions in the act may not be appropriate, as it provides powers to the Federal Government to regulate trade. Deputy Chairman Senator Mirza Muhammad Afridi emphasized Pakistan’s immense rock salt reserves, stressing the need for a policy to maximize revenue. He stressed that this commodity has been exported internationally in raw form without a policy that allows maximum revenue to be regained in Pakistan.

Election 2024 may be in a jeopardy due to 'shortage of funds' ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday took notice and summoned the Secretary of Finance for non-provision of allocated funds reserved for the general elections 2024, sources said on Monday.

Sources close to the development revealed that a total of Rs 42 billion was reserved for the preparation of the general election 2024 in the financial year budget, while the Ministry of Finance has only released Rs 10 billion so far.

Sources within the ECP state that the remaining funds for the election are being interrupted without any prior justification from the ministry, as the electoral watchdog is currently in need of Rs 17 billion immediately.

The ECP sources claimed to pen down a reminder and approached the Ministry of Finance repeatedly for the provision of election funds, but failed to get any positive response.

Sources claimed that the ECP chief has decided to inform the Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and will write a detailed

letter regarding the non-provision of funds.

INFORMATION MINISTER SAYS ‘NO CRISIS’ IN MEETING ECP’S FINANCIAL NEEDS: Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said on Monday that there was ‘no crisis’ in meeting the financial needs of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) ahead of the Feb 8 polls.

“There is no crisis on meeting the financial needs of the ECP,” he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Whatever budgeted amount is needed by the ECP will be released as per its needs accordingly,” he said.

The statement came after media outlets reported that the commission had summoned the finance secretary today after the ministry had “failed” to provide the funds allocated for general elections.

Solangi added that the federal cabinet had already approved Rs42 billion for the ECP’s “budgetary needs”, adding that Rs10bn had already been released.

The minister said the electoral watchdog had approached the government to release Rs17.4bn out of the remaining budgeted amount.

“We firmly stand behind the ECP in

holding free and fair elections as mandated

by Article 218(3) of the constitution,” the information minister concluded.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal visited the ECP headquarters in Islamabad earlier today. During a brief interaction with the media while leaving the premises, he said the finance department would release the funds required for the upcoming elections.

“We will release the funds […] in two days,” Bosal said. “Whatever their (ECP’s) need is,” he added.

Last week, the ECP had rejected what it said were “baseless and misleading” reports about a delay in the upcoming general elections.

The statement had come in response to media reports that a request was submitted to the ECP to postpone the general elections, citing security concerns in Balochistan and the recent wave of terrorism.

The ECP and President Arif Alvi had agreed earlier this month on Feb 8, 2024, as the date for polls — an announcement that has stirred activity in the camps of major political parties.

No crisis on meeting ECP’s financial requirements: Solangi ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Monday stated that there was no crisis in meeting the financial needs of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for holding the upcoming general elections after reports that the Ministry of Finance had failed to release funds to the election body despite repeated reminders.

Media earlier reported that the situation resulted in the summoning of the finance secretary by the ECP as well as prompting the poll body to consider writing to Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar.

Sources in ECP revealed that a total of Rs42 billion was allocated for holding general elections in this year’s budget but the finance ministry only released Rs10 billion so

far. They further added that the remaining amount has been delayed without any explanation. The ECP officials maintained that the poll body immediately needs Rs17 billion to hold general elections on February 8, 2024. Repeatedly, they said, the finance ministry was approached for releasing the funds but to no avail. “There is no crisis on meeting the financial needs of the ECP. The cabinet had approved Rs42 billion for the budgetary needs of the ECP. An amount of Rs10 billion was already released,” Solangi wrote on his official X handle. He said that the ECP has approached to release Rs17.4 billion out of the budgeted amount.

“Whatever budgeted amount is needed by the ECP will be released as per its needs accordingly. We firmly stand behind the ECP in holding free and fair elections as mandated by article 218(3) of the Constitution,” he further asserted.

02 NEWS

GERMANY’S KFW DEVELOPMENT BANK TO INVEST IN PAKISTAN’S POWER, HEALTH SECTORS

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

€2.5mn for Transmission of renewable energy and €1.5mn for healTh To be granTed To pakisTan

sector, especially in flood-affected areas.

As per details in a ceremony held in Islamabad on Sunday, Mr. Sebastian Jacobi, Country Director of KfW, and Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, inked agreements signifying Germany’s commitment to furthering Pakistan’s development goals. Managing Director of NTDC, Engr. Dr. Rana Abdul Jabbar Khan, was also present.

ISLAMABAD

Ghulam abbaS

HE Ministry of Economic Affairs and KfW, the German government’s development bank, solidified their partnership on Monday with the signing of agreements aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s power transmission sector and supporting the health

Imran Khan, Shah Mehmood Qureshi to be indicted in Cypher case on Dec 12

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RAWALPINDI

Former prime minister and ex-PTI chairman Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will be indicted in Cypher case on December 12. During proceedings in Adiala Jail on Monday, the special court decided to indict both PTI leaders in the cipher case. In the first indictment on October 23, both Imran Khan and Qureshi had pleaded not guilty. The special court is rehearing the case after the high court’s order. The Monday’s hearing was held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi by special court Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain. Imran Khan and Qureshi, who were present in the court, were provided with copies of the case record following a request by their lawyers. A case was registered against Imran Khan and Qureshi under Sections 5 and 9 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923. It is related to the “misuse” of alleged contents of a diplomatic cipher, cited by ex-premier Imran Khan as proof of the attempt to remove his government. Last week, the special court had ruled that the cipher case hearing will continue at Adiala Jail but in open court.

NAB chief confesses to ‘slow-paced working’ at corruption watchdog LAHORE

National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Chairman Lieutenant General (retd) Nazir Ahmed has admitted that the perception about slow-paced working at NAB is true to some extent. Speaking at an event here on Monday, NAB Chairman said that 7 out of every 10 people are victims of some housing scheme fraud. He said that the anti-graft watchdog is trying that no injustice would be done to people. “We will tighten our noose around the opportunists, he said and added that the purpose of starting an organized awareness campaign among the people is that the youth who will be a part of the awareness campaign, will become the ambassadors of the NAB. Lieutenant General (R) Nazir Ahmed said that the impression of slowness about NAB is true to some extent. He was of the view that the watchdog should remove the impression of fear and harassment, “we have to arrest the culprit, not to harass the entire neighbourhood”. He said that the word fraud has been replaced with victim, and the accused are being called as respondents instead of calling them accused. “NAB is your protector and supporter. We will make NAB a professional institution,” he added. The NAB chairman said that no single person or an institution could free the country from corruption, everyone has to work together to rid the society from corruption.

The index gains 1007 poinTs or 1.59% To reach The highesT level of 62,698.42 poinTs during inTraday Trade PROFIT

NewS DeSk

Bulls continued to run high at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Monday as the benchmark KSE-100 Index crossed the 62,000 level for the first time.

At 02:30 pm, the index gained 1221.36 points or 1.94% to touch the highest level of 62,912.61 points, driven by strong buying in index-heavy shares such as oil and gas exploration companies, banks, and auto assemblers.

Finally, the benchmark index closed at the 62,493.05 level, adding 801.80 points or 1.3% to its value as compared to the previous close of 61,691.25.

Market Status................Closed Current Index.................. 62,493.05 Change............................ 801.80 Percent Change............... 1.3% High................................ 62,912.61 Low................................. 62,061.56 Volume............................ 368,996,167 Previous Close................ 61,691.25 Value............................... 22,628,513,687 The market sentiment was boosted by a recent staff-level agreement between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the first review under the $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement (SBA).

The agreement paved the way for releasing the second tranche of $700 million to Pakistan.

According to a latest report by the

Ministry of Finance, the PSX is experiencing a bullish wave due to a favourable IMF review and a consistent monetary policy stance.

The report, titled “Monthly Economic Update and Outlook for November” and released on Sunday, stated that “Pakistan’s economy is on a gradual but promising path to recovery.”

The report also observed that the economic activity is increasing due to the pace of economic revival initiatives.

“The market sentiment is influenced by positive economic signals and recovery indicators.

“The market confidence is boosted by the consistent monetary policy stance and the successful IMF staff review in Novem-

inDrive partners with Vlektra to launch electric bikes in Pakistan g

The co-founder of vlekTra sTaTes ThaT The iniTiaTive aims To reduce emissions and promoTe eco-friendly TransporTaTion alTernaTives PROFIT

NewS DeSk

The inDrive revealed a strategic collaboration with Vlektra, an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, to incorporate electric motorcycles into its ride-hailing fleet in Pakistan, according to a recent press release.

The collaboration positions inDrive as the first ride-hailing company in the country to embrace EVs, marking a significant development in the nation’s transportation sector.

The initiative is seen as a noteworthy milestone in Pakistan’s pursuit of a sustainable future, with a focus on reducing emissions and fostering environmental consciousness.

Roman Ermoshin, the Director of the APAC region at inDrive, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership signifies our concerted effort to introduce electric bikes, driving a significant shift towards a cleaner, more eco-conscious future in the region.”

Fatiq Bin Khursheed, Co-founder of Vlektra, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the partnership represents a pioneering move in Pakistan’s ride-hailing landscape, introducing electric vehicles for sustainable mobil-

TexTile millers have purchased The majoriTy of The harvesTed coTTon, acquiring 6,755,905 bales PROFIT

NewS DeSk

Pakistan’s cotton ginners report a substantial increase in cotton bales harvested this year, surpassing last year’s figures by a significant 81 percent.

As of November 30, the total cotton arrival at ginning units stands at 7,753,473

bales compared to 4,280,500 bales during the same period last year. Sindh emerges as a key contributor to this surge, recording a remarkable 128 percent increase with over 3.7 million bales produced.

Meanwhile, Punjab achieves a 49 percent boost in output, contributing over 4 million bales. However, the province falls short of its allocated target, reaching only

ber,” the report added.

The investors were also encouraged by the improvement in the country’s financial indicators, such as the extension of $3 billion deposit by Saudi Arabia, the expected $2 billion inflow from the World Bank in FY24, the above-target tax collection by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the relatively stable rupee.

The market experts believe that the interest rates have peaked and are likely to decline from 2024, which would attract more flows to the equity market. They also expect the corporate earnings to improve in the coming quarters, reflecting the economic recovery.

The PSX has seen a phenomenal rise of nearly 17% and the highest foreign investment in six years of $34.5 million in November 2023, indicating the strong confidence of investors in the country’s economic revival. This was the secondhighest monthly return in percentage terms in over a decade, only behind the Covid’s abnormal return in April 2020.

The surge in Pakistan’s stock market rally has been a pivotal factor in the 50 percent increase in the benchmark index since late June, making it the world’s second-best performer during this period, following Argentina.

Matco Foods launches new corn sugar plant in Karachi

The company processes and exporTs rice, rice proTein, rice glucose, pink salT, condimenTs and spices, desserT mixes eTc and iTs new planT has a capaciTy To produce 4,000 meTric Tons corn sugar per year.

PROFIT

NewS DeSk

ity. The core objective of the collaboration is to contribute to emission reduction and promote eco-friendly transportation alternatives.

Notably, inDrive, founded in 2013, is a global ride-hailing platform operating in over 450 cities across 46 countries. The platform allows customers to set fares based on real-time demand and market conditions, ensuring a transparent pricing system for both passengers

and drivers.

Vlektra, a Pakistani startup established in 2021, specializes in providing eco-friendly and sustainable electric vehicle solutions. Committed to reducing Pakistan’s carbon footprint, Vlektra offers a range of electric bikes and scooters designed for everyday use, contributing to the promotion of sustainable mobility through innovative EV technology.

Cotton production surges by 81pc, but challenges loom over target achievement g

KfW for its pivotal role in fostering economic growth and sustainable development in Pakistan. In response, Mr. Sebastian Jacobi emphasized that KfW’s funding in the energy and governance sectors will not only drive sectoral improvements but also contribute to the socio-economic uplift of beneficiaries through job creation and infrastructure development.

Highlighting the longstanding economic cooperation between Germany and Pakistan, dating back over 60 years, Mr. Jacobi noted that Germany has consistently supported Pakistan in infrastructure development and improving social conditions.

In another significant move, KfW will allocate an additional Euro 1.5 million to the “Self-Employment of Women in the Private Health Sector” program. This initiative aims to empower women economically by establishing 400 clinics in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, creating income-generating opportunities. The support is designed to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth while concurrently improving reproductive health services in rural areas.

Expressing gratitude, Mr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, acknowledged the German Government’s steadfast support and commended

PSX sets new record as KSE-100 closes above 62,000 mark

Staff RepoRt

Staff RepoRt

Under the “Promotion of Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency” program, KfW, representing the German government, will provide an additional grant of Euro 2.5 million to the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC).

This funding will assist NTDC in ensuring the effective operation and maintenance of installations, incorporating robust environmental and social management systems. The initiative aims to enhance the integration of needs-based renewable energy into the transmission system, contributing to sustainable economic growth and climate protection.

44 percent of the initially set goal of approximately 8.3 million bales.

Textile millers have purchased the majority of the harvested cotton, acquiring 6,755,905 bales. Exporters and traders secured 290,626 bales, while nearly 125,000 bales have been exported.

Despite the positive trend, concerns loom over achieving the annual production target. Sajid Mahmood, representing the Business Club Commodities, asserts that while this year’s cotton figures may surpass last year’s, he is confident that the country will fall short of achieving the annual pro-

duction target. He projects a potential production range of 18-20 million bales, emphasizing the need for substantial investments in cotton research and development.

Cotton Ginners forum chairman Ihsanul Haq points to adverse weather conditions and a severe whitefly attack on the crop as factors contributing to reduced yield.

Haq suggests aligning Punjab’s cotton year with Sindh’s coastal areas, starting from February-March, to avoid weather-related challenges during sowing and harvesting, potentially resulting in better-quality cotton appealing to foreign buyers.

Matco Foods Limited, one of the largest rice exporters in Pakistan, has announced the start of commercial operations of its new plant that produces dextrose monohydrate, a form of corn sugar used in the food and beverage industry.

The plant is located on company-owned land at Super Highway Industrial Area, Karachi, and has a capacity of 4,000 metric tons per year.

The company said in a filing to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Monday that the plant was completed in 14 months and underwent extensive testing and inspection before commissioning. The project has created new jobs and economic opportunities for the country, and will also earn vital foreign exchange through exports, the company said.

Dextrose monohydrate is a natural monosaccharide and carbohydrate that acts as a sweetener, thickener, and bulking agent in various products. Matco Foods is principally engaged in the processing and export of rice, rice protein, rice glucose, pink salt, condiments and spices, dessert mixes etc. It has five processing plants and exports its products to over 65 countries under the brand name “Falak”.

The company said it is committed to diversifying the industrial base and providing value addition for its stakeholders and Pakistan’s economy. It is among the top 100 exporters from the country and a dedicated partner of Pakistan’s industrial vision.

Pak Suzuki’s major shareholder offers to buy out 26.91% minority shares g

This offer is parT of smc's plan To delisT psmc from psx and make iT a wholly owned subsidiary PROFIT

NewS DeSk

The majority shareholder of Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited (PSMC), Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), has proposed to acquire the remaining 26.91% shares of the company from the minority shareholders for Rs406 per share.

This offer is part of SMC’s plan to delist PSMC from the Pakistan Stock Exchange

(PSX) and make it a wholly-owned subsidiary.

According to a notice issued by PSMC to the PSX on Monday, SMC has submitted an application to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) for the approval of the voluntary delisting of PSMC. The notice stated that SMC intends to purchase the minority shares through a tender offer under the Companies Act 2017 and the PSX Regulations.

“Suzuki Motor Company (SMC), the

majority shareholder proposes to purchase 22,145,760 ordinary shares (26.91%) of the paid-up share capital of the company (PSMC) held by the minority shareholders of the company at a minimum purchase price of Rs406 per share,” read the notice.

PSMC said it has appointed Arif Habib Limited as the purchase agent.

The notice further stated that the offer price of Rs406 per share represents a premium of 37.5% over the closing price of Rs295.36 per share on November 30, 2023, the last trading day before the announcement of the offer.

The offer price also reflects a premium of 38.8% over the average closing price of Rs292.54 per share for the last six months.

The notice added that the offer is subject to the approval of the SECP, the PSX, and the acceptance of at least 90% of the minority shareholders. The notice also mentioned that the Board of Directors of PSMC has resolved to delist the company from the PSX on October 19, 2023.

Earlier on October 12, PSMC announced that it would evaluate the proposal of its majority shareholder to buy all the remaining shares of the company and take it off the PSX. A week later, on October 19, PSMC’s BoD agreed to accept the offer and approved the delisting of the company from the PSX. Pak Suzuki Motor Company is the one of three big automobile manufacturers in

Pakistan, with a market share of 42.6% as of September 2023. The company produces and sells various models of Suzuki cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles.

SMC is a Japanese multinational corporation that owns 73.09% of PSMC’s shares.

SMC has cited various reasons for its decision to delist PSMC, such as the challenging business environment, the regulatory uncertainty, the low liquidity, and the high cost of listing.

Minority shareholders of the PSMC have suffered losses and missed dividends for several years and the company incurred losses in 2019, 2020, and 2022, with ongoing losses recorded up to the third quarter of the current financial year (2023).

LHC DIRECTS IMPOSITION OF FINES FOR WATER WASTAGE

NEWS 03

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

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LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

AHORE High Court’s (LHC) Justice Shahid Karim directed the concerned quarters to impose a fine of Rs20,000 on commercial and Rs10,000 on residential consumers in an attempt to limit the alleged ‘reckless’ use of water.

Justice Karim also directed authorities to fix a penalty of Rs1,000,000 on factories which are polluting the atmosphere.

Making clear that there is a need to

PTI’s Shaukat Yousafzai declared proclaimed offender

take concrete measures to mitigate smog, the judge warned the quarters concerned that he will not let public money be spent on artificial rain.

The directives were passed during the hearing of different petitions regarding preventative measures for smog.

The director general (DG) environment submitted a report on re-sealing factories which had earlier been de-sealed.

While highlighting that proceedings against some officers had been initiated, he assured the court that strict action would be taken against those officers who were

PESHAWAR

Staff RepoRt

A session’s court on Monday declared Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shaukat Yousafzai a proclaimed offender. A case under section 109 PPC had been registered by the Shangla police against the provincial senior vice president of the party on November 21.

Shangla police reached Peshawar during intraparty elections on December 2 to arrest him, but Yousafzai did not turn up. Police have added more sections to the FIR registered against him. It may be recalled that the former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa information minister was offloaded from a flight to Saudi Arabia on Nov 21. He was kept in custody by the airport authorities for around two hours and released after the plane had departed. Earlier in July, he was arrested along with other PTI leaders by the Shangla police under section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. However, he was later acquitted.

18-member Pakistani journalists’ delegation set to visit China tomorrow ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

As a part of series of exchange program between China and Pakistan, 18-member Pakistan journalists’ delegation is all set to visit China on December 06 offering media practitioners to explore myriad of growth and progression in Chinese society that champions the cause of global shared community. During 10-day trip that will end on December 16, Pakistan journalists that work in different professional domains are planned to visit four cities of China including Beijing, Chengdu, Kashgar, Urumqi. 18-member journalists’ delegation has been hosted by the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China and has been organized by China Center for International Communication Development of the China International Communication Group. The News staff reporter Faizan Bangish, The Nation Special Correspondent Khawar Abbass Sindhu, Senior Columnist & President of Institute of Internation Relations & Media Research (IIRMR) Yasir Habib Khan and other journalists from various media outlets are part of delagation designed on insightful understanding between Pakistan Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar and Chinese leadership. Chinese Embassy Pakistan held an orientation session for delegation to help understand the significance of exchange program and objectives. Embassy Political Director Mr Wang Shengjie along with media section official Mr Liuchang briefed the delegation that China visit will promise to allow Pakistan Journalists to experience Chinese modern development, inventiveness, lifestyle, growth mechanism, technological craftmanship, ancient archeology & ecology, rich Chinese culture and cuisine. As per plan, delegation will pay visit multi-faceted areas including Huaneng Clear Energy Research Institute, Shougnag Park, Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, JD group, Apollo Park, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing Daxing International Airport, Chengdu Urban Planning Museum, Qingbaijiang district, Pilot Test Base, China Railway Express (Chengdu) and Pakistan National Pavilion, Qingyang district, Qingyang headquarters Economic Base and Sichuan International & Design Park, Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wuhou district, Gazelle Digital Culture and Creative Valley, Eastern Suburb Memory, Kashgar Old City Comprehensive Protection and Management Memorial Hall, Idkah Mosque and Ancient City of Kashgar, Payzawat County, Drinking Water Supply Project, Plum Industrial Park, Daoxiangquan County, Jiang Guo Guo Agriculture Science and Technology Co, Ltd, Xinjiang Muqam Art Theatre.

found involved in flouting rules as well as de-sealing the factories.

Over violation of rules, Justice Karim slapped a fine of Rs.1,000,000 on a steal mill with further direction to keep it sealed.

During the hearing, a Judicial Water & Environmental Commission member told the court that the environment department takes bribes, allowing those factories to blatantly spread smoke.

To this, Justice Karim firmly informed the DG Environment that those officers will not be spared and strict action will be taken against them.

However, Justice Karim expressed his satisfaction with the report submitted by DG Environment regarding the re-sealing of factories which are still violating the rules and had earlier been de-sealed.

The court was also informed that 36 cafes had been sealed over being found functional after 10 pm. However, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) representative told the court that those cafe owners had obtained a de-sealing order from the LHC. At this, the judge directed to come up with the particular LHC order

by December 8.

On artificial rain, Justice Karim came down hard upon the authorities concerned with remarks that there is a need to make sincere efforts for the elimination of smog rather than carry out activities.

“I don’t know where some people want to take this city”, Justice Karim remarked and added: “It is astonishing that development projects have been initiated in smog season”.

PTI top body greets newly-elected party Chairman, other officials ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Core Committee on Monday decided to speed-up its political activities across the country and special instructions were issued to PTI Punjab chapter to start preparations for holding workers conventions across the province after successful workers conventions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).

During a sitting of the PTI Core Committee, the leadership congratulated all the party’s newly-elected officials including the new PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan for their unopposed election in the recently held intra-party elections after their nomination by PTI founding Chairman Imran Khan.

The forum held out assurance to the newly elected Chairman Barrister Gohar of their full support and cooperation and expressed best wishes for him.

They said that the PTI founding Chairman had dealt a crushing blow to the decades-old hereditary and dynastic political system in the country by nominating a capable and loyal party worker for the top post of the party.

It was said that the PTI Core Committee had already allotted the post of lifetime chairmanship to the PTI found-

ing chairman Imran Khan.

During the meeting, the forum decided to expedite peaceful political activities across the country and gave approval to hold workers’ convention in Punjab after KP for which instructions were issued to party’s organizational officials to start the preparations for holding workers’ conventions in the largest province of the country at the earliest.

The PTI core committee voiced strong concerns over the issue of non-disbursement of the much-needed funds for the forthcoming general elections. The forum urged the caretaker government to release the funds without any further delay for holding general elections.

They made it clear that the entire nation was well-ware of the real objectives and goals of the caretaker government regarding holding free, fair and transparent elections.

PTI Core Committee vowed that the nation would not accept any obstacle in the way of holding elections on the scheduled date due to non-availability of funds or any kind of unconstitutional and illegal excuse. The forum also expressed a strong resentment over taking the returning officers (ROs) from administration instead of the Judiciary, adding that it was a plan of pre-poll rigging in all respects.

Therefore, the participants of the meeting underlined that any deliberate or inadvertent attempt to affect the transparency of the elections would be a criminal attack on the national interest as well as democracy.

PTI Core Committee made it clear that the nation would neither accept any such attempt nor would it allow election rigging by administrative officers come what may. They demanded that the electoral watchdog should immediately withdraw the decision of appointing administrative officers as ROs and hand over the responsibility of conducting the elections to impartial judicial officers.

PTI Core Committee strongly protested against non provision of unhindered access to the national and international media to the trial of the PTI founding chairman Imran Khan in jail despite clear the court orders, adding that denying access to media representatives, independent observers or the public to the proceedings of the trial believed the very concept of an open trial.

The forum urged that the caretaker government should shun the practice of disregarding the court orders and give unhindered access to the representatives of domestic and foreign media in next hearing of the case.

CPEC journey to move forward; detractors to lose relevance very soon: PM kakar CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

He said the clean drinking water had been an issue faced by the Gwadar people and the desalination plant project would address it to a great extent. Besides, the construction of a 150-bed hospital would provide quality healthcare to the people, he added.

The prime minister also thanked the Chinese ambassador for announcing the solar power project and emergency services for Quetta.

Prime Minister Kakar assuring the all-out support of the federal and provincial governments on the matter of security, reiterated that the Pakistan Army, police and law enforcement agencies would safeguard the Chinese workers even at the cost of their lives.

He expressed the hope that Gwadar would complete its course of development soon to become a trade hub with the Pak-China cooperation for the benefit of future generations. He directed the authorities concerned to connect Northern Zone with main grid to address the electricity issue.

Earlier, the prime minister, along with the Chinese ambassador and Balochistan chief minister unveiled the plaques to inaugurate the projects which followed the presentation of the souvenirs to the prime minister as well as

the envoy.

PM Kakar, later talking to reporters on the occasion, said the direction of the progress of Balochistan was set forth and expressed confidence that the province would witness a new era of development. He thanked the provincial government on completion of the development projects, which he said, would facilitate the locals of Gwadar. The prime minister hoped that the financial crunch would be over with the steps taken by the interim government.

To a question on funds allocated for flood-hit areas, he said the world was ready to dole out billions of dollars, however, it depended on how Pakistan could secure the climate financing.

In his address, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong congratulated the people of Balochistan over the inauguration of the desalination plant providing clean drinking water.

He thanked the federal and provincial governments particularly the prime minister for their support to the projects which manifested their commitment to the CPEC. He said both the projects of hospital and desalination plant would help uplift the living standard of the people of Gwadar. He expressed the hoped that the both countries would continue to strengthen their cooperation to accomplish the next phase of CPEC.

Chief Minister Ali Mardan Domki said the projects were another example of Pak-China friendship as they would serve the masses by providing quality healthcare facilities and around 500,000 gallons per day of drinking water.

He said the shortage of clean drinking water had been a long standing problems faced by the people of Gwadar and the desalination plant would address it. He reiterated that the government remained committed to uplift Gwadar at par with international standards.

In his address through video link, the Chief Executive of the Agency of International Economic Cooperation of China, appreciated the government department, Chinese embassy and project staff for their efforts in the completion of the project. He said being all-weather strategic partners, Pakistan and China supported each other in development.

He told the gathering the projects would help improve the living standards of the locals.

He reiterated that China would continue working with Pakistan to complete the projects like Gwadar Airport, and other CPEC projects. He said the Gwadar Port would play a greater role in high-quality development of CPEC and China would fully support Pakistan in the development of Gwadar.

Experts discuss ways to improve governance framework at Pakistan Water Week 2023 ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Federal Secretary Ministry of Water Resources, Syed Ali Murtaza on Monday highlighted that water governance was a key issue and water management and agriculture practices need to be changed in Pakistan.

Addressing an international conference in connection with ‘Pakistan Water Week 2023’ he said the event has brought together the experts for an important discussion on a crucial issue being faced by the country. The conference, ‘Transformative Pathways for Water and Food System in a Climate Resilient Pakistan’ was organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), and CGIARs Water, Land and Ecosystems Programme Secretory Murtaza said water scarcity is due to the usage in the agriculture sector, adding that the Punjab Water Act gives a governance framework to the province for water allocation for different sectors. ‘The act also focuses on licensing and wastewater and use of surface and groundwater and we thank FCDO for supporting the implementation of the Punjab Water Act,’ he said and added that Sindh and Balochistan provinces should also frame their water act soon. He also highlighted the need for a holistic rather than a piecemeal approach to achieving the goal of efficient water usage.

ANP reports political transfers, postings and code of conduct violations to CEC ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Seasoned politician and ANP leader Mian Iftikhar Hussain on Monday said they had informed Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja about the repeated code of conduct violations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying any continuation of the ongoing practices would be considered as pre-poll rigging. He was talking to reporters after a meeting with the chief election commissioner (CEC) on a day which also saw the MQM presenting their case about alleged injustices in the new delimitations and the support being extending to the PPP by the caretaker government in Sindh. Hussain said his party had especially pointed to the transfer and posting of district administration officers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which, according to him, were politically-motivated and being carried out under a special agenda. The deputy commissioners were pressing politicians for joining the particular parties to get favourable transfers and postings, he mentioned.

Demanding posting of impartial officials, he said the ANP wanted free and fair polls according the schedule announced by the ECP (Election Commission of Pakistan).

Senate committee approves student union bill ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Senate Committee for Education on Monday approved the bill for the restoration of student organizations in the federal educational institutions. Ifran Siddiqui presided over the Senate Committee for Education and approved the bill for the restoration of student organizations at the federal universities and colleges. The meeting members considered a bill for the legislation on the student union in the education institutions in the federal. The chairman committee expressed displeasure over the absence of the education secretary and education minister and warned them to attend the meetings in the future otherwise they have to face the consequences. Senator Irfan Siddiqui urged the meeting about the student unions in the past played a major role in the political training of the students.

Fawad Chaudhry gets interim bail extension ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

The Session Court on Monday extended the interim bail of the former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry in violation of the section 144 case.

According to the details, Additional and Sessions Judge Tahir Abbas Supra heard the case of the former minister in the session court.

The court approved the exemption from the court request of Fawad Chaudhry and extended his interim bail till December 12, 2023.

Meanwhile, the next hearing of the case is scheduled to be held on December 12.

Last week, the former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry was granted B-class facilities in jail.

In compliance with a court directive, Chief Commissioner Anwarul Haq appeared before the High Court in a case involving the prison facilities of Fawad Chaudhry.

During the court hearing, the Chief Commissioner presented an implementation report on former minister’s requests. The report revealed that former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry has been granted B-class facilities in jail, and as per the court’s directives, he has been permitted to meet with family and legal representatives.

According to a first information report, Fawad was arrested in a case registered at the Aabpara police station on August 22, 2022, under sections 109 (punishment of abet-

ment if the Act abetted committed in consequence and where no express provision is made for its punishment), 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 341(punishment for wrongful restraint), and 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation) of the Pakistan Penal Code.

The fraud FIR was filed against the ex-PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry by the complainant Zaheer Ahmed on November 4. In the FIR, Zaheer Ahmed claimed to handed over a sum of Rs50 million to Fawad Chaudhry and when he asked to return the amount, Fawad allegedly offered him two government jobs in exchange, and later Fawad threatened him along with his two-armed guards.

Information Minister’s statement: PTI questions caretaker regime’s ‘neutrality’ ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) spokesperson on Monday lambasted the caretaker Federal Minister for Information Murtaza Solangi for his “nonsensical and absurd” remarks about PTI’s intra-party polls, saying that his statement put a stamp on his prejudiced and biased character.

In a strong-worded reaction, PTI spokesperson said that the caretaker government’s only constitutional responsibility was

to conduct free, fair and transparent elections within the constitutionally defined deadline.

The spokesperson said that Information Minister’s slanderous statement had exposed “neutrality of the caretaker regime”, adding that the PTI was the only political party that buried the traditional hereditary and dynastic politics by introducing new and capable faces into the political landscape of the country.

However, he contended that it was shocking to note that the current interim regime had completely failed in performing its due constitutional responsibilities, thus it

became an “unconstitutional” and “illegal”.

PTI spokesperson noted that Solangi did not have any constitutional and moral justification to give statement against internal affairs of any political party, adding that his statement questioning PTI intra-party election testified his bias.

He underlined that PTI was the only political parties championing the constitution and democracy in the country that completely rejected the concept of heredity and dynastic politics and introduced capable and new faces into the political arena of the country. PTI

spokesperson pointed out that the caretaker government after providing all-out support to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) at every step to keep PTI out of the election process, the caretaker government was now resorting to such a shameful game to sabotage the PTI’s intra-party elections.

He went on to say that the elements, who were playing key role to deprive PTI of level playing, should be ashamed for giving statements based on lies and accusations.

PTI spokesperson advised that the unconstitutional Information Minister mere focused

on nonsense rhetoric, accusations and distortion of facts since assuming the office instead of performing his constitutional role. He recalled that the caretaker government failed miserably at every level ranging from holding general elections on constitutionally mandated timeframe to providing level playing fields to political parties for the forthcoming general elections. PTI spokesperson asked Solangi that he should look at his duties assigned to the caretaker government in the constitution and try to implement them instead of teaching PTI the lesson of democracy.

04 COMMENT

HIV in Pakistan: A cry for empathy and action

Round the corner

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But out of sight

s the electoral event looms on the horizon, conspicuous signs of its approach remain notably absent from the streets, news channels, newspapers, and even the social media profiles of individual politicians.

To the uninitiated, the numerous false starts by the election Commission might suggest that political parties have been lulled into a state of apathy, casting doubt on whether the event will transpire at all. Deeper skepticism surfaces, proposing a more sinister motive, with suggestions that parties have meticulously assessed the costs and benefits, deeming the entire electoral process an exercise in futility, where the powers-that-be will ultimately dictate the outcome.

One persistent truth about skeptics worldwide is that, more often than not, their suspicions bear merit. A closer examination reveals that despite a surge in popularity, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) maintains a low profile in the lead-up to the polls. Despite prevailing positive sentiments, the party finds itself entangled in legal battles and the looming threat of imprisonment. Notably, in constituencies where the party vote does not surpass that of individual candidates, these candidates have opted to align with the two emerging parties on the political scene.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is reminiscent of the PTI in 2018, albeit with gloves off this time. Grappling with economic challenges, exacerbated by negative press that disproportionately affects Ishaq Dar’s party more than the Kakar administration, the PML-N faces resistance even in its traditional strongholds. While the party successfully organized a massive rally in Lahore, it can’t be unequivocally categorized as part of an election campaign but rather as a one-time show of strength.

Interestingly, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) stands out as the party capable of running an electioneering campaign, particularly in its stronghold, Fortress sindh, where it maintains solid support. Contrary to simplistic assumptions about feudal pressures in this highly urbanized province, voters seem responsive to a combination of development initiatives and political posturing. The PPP benefits from not having to grapple with the economic challenges faced by the PTI and the negative economic press dogging the PML-N. However, even with the freedom that the PTI lacks and the absence of economic scrutiny faced by the PML-N, the PPP’s potential for a robust election campaign has not materialized. A rumored rift between the father-and-son duo leading the party, evident in a recent news channel interview, has thrown a spanner in the works just when momentum seemed to be building.

In summary, unless one considers the farcical elections orchestrated by in-office military dictators, the impending elections in Pakistan appear set to be the least dynamic in the country’s history. Upon reflection, even the 2002 polls, despite their controversies, exhibited more enthusiasm, granting the then-out-of-favor PPP the largest percentage of the popular vote.

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Amin WAstoo

N the heart of Rato Dero, sindh, a mother’s anguish echoes as her 10-year-old daughter, Amna, battles HIV. The stigma surrounding the virus has not only taken a toll on their lives but has also forced the family to move homes three times.

Amna’s journey with HIV began at the tender age of six, marked by persistent weakness and recurrent fevers. A routine checkup during the Rato Dero outbreak revealed the harsh truth – Amna was diagnosed with HIV. For her mother, it felt like the sky had collapsed. We are middle-class people, but still, we changed three houses because of this,” the mother laments, highlighting the harsh reality faced by families dealing with HIV in a society rife with misunderstanding and prejudice.

The National AIDs Control Program Pakistan reports a staggering 21,344 registered HIV/AIDs patients in sindh, with 10,592 cases in Karachi alone.

Among them, 2,470 are children, illustrating the urgent need for awareness and intervention. sindh witnessed a surge in child HIV cases in 2019 during the Ratodero outbreak, with over 900 children testing positive. The Tehsil Headquarters Hospital Ratodero remains a focal point, with 528 girls and 850 boys registered. Larkana follows closely, with 508 children registered in sheikh Zayed Children’s Hospital. The virus’s rampant spread is attributed to unsafe medical practices, including the reuse of surgical instruments, needles, and blood transfusions. Alarming data from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Association reveals that approximately 40% of the two lakh dentists in sindh, among the six lakh across the country, operate in major cities, contributing to the risk of HIV transmission.

Beyond the statistics, the narrative of Amna’s family emphasizes the pressing need for societal empathy and understanding. The mother’s poignant words capture the isolation and hardships faced by families dealing with HIV, urging society to move beyond stereotypes and offer support.

Amid rising HIV cases, a family’s struggle echoes a plea for compassion and urgent action in Pakistan’s fight against the silent epidemic

As the number of HIV cases continues to rise, it is crucial to prioritize education and awareness campaigns, dispelling myths and reducing the stigma associated with the virus. Communities must come together to support affected families, fostering an environment of compassion and understanding.

To combat stigma effectively, grassroots campaigns should be launched, involving local leaders, religious figures, and influencers. These campaigns can target schools, community centers, and religious institutions to promote accurate information about HIV transmission and prevention.

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated.

The National AIDs Control Program’s data paints a stark picture of the prevalence of HIV in sindh, particularly among children. The government, nongovernmental organizations, and international partners must collaborate to implement comprehensive intervention strategies. Healthcare Infrastructure and Preventive Measure in the fight against HIV, the role of healthcare professionals is pivotal. strengthening healthcare infrastructure, ensuring safe medical practices, and promoting regular screenings are essential steps in curbing the spread of the virus.

The Human Face of Statistics AmnaÊs story serves as a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a human face, a family grappling with the impact of a life-altering diagnosis. It is the collective responsibility of society, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work collaboratively towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with HIV in Sindh and beyond.

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami

A call to combat climate change Editor Umar Aziz M. A. Niazi Joint Editor

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Executive Editor

Let’s amplify young voices through a Model COP for innovative climate solutions sAhil YAr muhAmmAd

s the curtains rose on the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), also known as COP-28, history unfolded. On the very first day, states party to the UNFCCC agreed to a Loss and Damage Fund to aid weaker states with a small carbon footprint disproportionately affected by climate change.

The tidings of the Fund came at the previous COP and materialized this year. As crucial as this is for climate-affected states, those with large Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions must seriously consider moving away from fossil fuels. Burning fossil fuels is a significant contributor to the elevated GHG levels in the atmosphere.

Climate change analysts and environmentalists emphasize this point.

Recently, climate change has gained prominence due to rapid global changes.

According to Ahmed Rafay, an environmental lawyer based in Lahore, emissions since the industrial revolution started centuries ago account for less than 50% of GHGs in the atmosphere. The remaining emissions have been added to the atmosphere after 1980.

In the past 43 years, we’ve added more GHGs to the atmosphere than in the past three and a half centuries. This reality demands collective pondering and immediate action.

Climate change respects no boundaries; it affects everyone regardless of nationality, race,

religion, creed, or ethnicity.

This matter needs serious attention to restrict the rise of global temperature to 1.5℃ instead of the current projection of over 2.0℃.

Delaying debate and action is futile; climate change is an undeniable reality.

Young climate activists have significantly contributed to raising awareness. Platforms for young people, such as the recent Model OIC (MOIC) Conference on Climate Change held at the Institute of Regional studies (IRs), are effective in fostering learning and expressing opinions. The MOIC, a mock OIC conference, allows states to debate, formulate working papers, and pass resolutions and declarations.

A formal OIC conference official emphasized the importance of including the voice of young people at these forums. The recommendations of an MOIC are forwarded to the OIC by the Foreign Office of the respective state, which can then be discussed in an official OIC session of member states.

The Model UN and MOIC model can be replicated for COP as well; a Model COP (MCOP) sponsored by the UNFCCC and held in its member states a few months before the actual COP. This will allow the input of young climate activists, scholars, and students in the most important conference on climate change.

Ideas from vibrant young minds can prove most helpful in combating climate change. Being a part of the MOIC, I witnessed firsthand how young minds are a treasure trove of innovative and inspiring ideas. However, these ideas are often lost between the youth and the officials in power. A platform to propel these ideas to the top will work wonders in combating climate change.

It is the children and young who will live in

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

Young climate activists have significantly contributed to raising awareness. Platforms for young people, such as the recent Model OIC Conference on Climate Change held at the Institute of Regional Studies, are effective in fostering learning and expressing opinions. The MOIC, a mock OIC conference, allows states to debate, formulate working papers, and pass resolutions and declarations. this world 10 years from now, 100 years from now; it is only right that they have a say in matters that directly affect their future.

The writer is a freelance contributor with a Masters in International Relations and can be reached at sayamu812@gmail.com.

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Tuesday, 5 December 2023

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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The focus should be on upgrading medical facilities, especially in regions where the prevalence of HIV is high. This includes training healthcare workers on infection control measures and ensuring the availability of sterile equipment. Regular monitoring and evaluation of healthcare practices can help identify and rectify potential sources of infection. Preventive measures should be a cornerstone of public health initiatives. This involves not only educating the public on safe practices but also implementing policies that enforce infection control in healthcare settings. strict regulations and oversight can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission through medical procedures.

The Human Face of statistics Amna’s story serves as a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a human face, a family grappling with the impact of a life-altering diagnosis. It is the collective responsibility of society, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work collaboratively towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with HIV in sindh and beyond.

In conclusion, the silent struggle of living with HIV in sindh, Pakistan, demands immediate and sustained attention. The intersection of societal stigma, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and specific challenges faced by vulnerable communities creates a complex web that must be untangled through comprehensive and collaborative efforts.

It is a call to action for governments, healthcare professionals, NGOs, and communities to unite in their commitment to creating a society where individuals living with HIV are not only medically supported but also embraced with compassion and understanding.

Only through such collective efforts can we hope to build a future where stories like Amna’s become tales of resilience and triumph over adversity.

The writer holds a government job at Agriculture department Turbat

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

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

Youth driving electoral change

YOUTH-LeD initiatives for electoral reforms play a crucial role in advocating positive changes in the electoral process. These movements often demand fair, transparent, and accountable systems to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure equal voting rights. Many youth-led initiatives focus on educating young voters about their rights, the importance of voting, and navigating the electoral system to increase voter turnout and engagement. They employ innovative strategies, including social media campaigns, grassroots organising, and community engagement, to reach a wider audience and mobilise support for electoral reforms. Notable examples of such initiatives include the “Youth Initiative for electoral Reforms” in Nigeria, advocating for electoral transparency, and the “Youth Vote Philippines” movement aiming to increase youth voter turnout through education and engagement efforts. These initiatives showcase the proactive role of young people in driving change and advocating for more transparent, fair, and inclusive electoral systems.

SABTAIN HYDER SUKKUR

Compassion in action

IN a world of groundbreaking medical advancements, such as the first-ever eye transplant, it’s disheartening to witness tepid enthusiasm for organ donation in Pakistan. Despite the ethical transplantation law passing over a decade ago, inertia surrounds this critical practice. This article highlights the pressing need for organ transplantation in Pakistan, societal reluctance, and potential solutions to save lives.

Did you know that over 150,000 people in Pakistan die annually from end-stage organ failure? A staggering number, with 40,000 succumbing to kidney failure and 70,000 to liver failure, underlining the urgent need for organ transplantation. By increasing organ availability through donations, countless lives can be saved. It’s perplexing that despite religious leaders from all sects endorsing the ethical transplantation law, there remains reluctance towards organ donation in Pakistani society. Overcoming this resistance involves addressing cultural and religious concerns. engaging religious scholars and community leaders can dispel myths and promote organ donation as an act of compassion.

Dispelling myths surrounding organ donation is crucial to encourage more individuals to consider it. Misconceptions about religious beliefs or disfigurement persist, but the reality is that organ donation is a noble act saving lives. Raising awareness and educating the public can promote a positive attitude towards this life-saving practice.

Political support plays a crucial role in fostering a positive organ donation culture. Politicians and public figures need to openly endorse organ donation, supporting legislation against illegal organ trade. Their influence can shape public perception and encourage more individuals to become organ donors. Creating a successful organ transplantation system requires addressing societal, cultural, and technical aspects. Well-equipped hospitals, advanced preservation techniques, effective coordination systems, protocols for determining brain death, and streamlined organ allocation processes are crucial. Investing in healthcare infrastructure ensures organs reach those in need efficiently. Beyond medical and technical considerations, organ donation is a matter of compassion and empathy. each donor has the potential to transform multiple lives, offering hope to those who suffer. Fostering a culture of compassion and encouraging open conversations about organ donation can inspire more individuals to give the gift of life. In Pakistan, the need for organ transplantation is urgent, requiring a multi-faceted approach. By addressing cultural beliefs, dispelling myths, garnering political support, and improving technical aspects, a thriving organ transplantation system can be created. Let’s unite as a society, embrace compassion, and work towards a future where organ donation is not only accepted but celebrated as an act of humanity.

SASSI NASIR ALI TURBAT

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

Yet another U-turn or Tactical Maneuver?

Tuesday, 5 December 2023

In 9th May’s fallout, the party’s changing narrative regarding the establishment is bound to face scrutiny

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Malik MuHaMMaD asHraf

HE newly appointed senior vice-president of PTI, Sher Afzal Khan Marwat, who is also a member of the legal team defending Imran Khan in the cases against him, reportedly said to The News that the PTI chairman has directed him to disassociate from the party or its social media all those who are targeting the institution of Pakistan Army, maligning it, or creating hatred against it. According to him, Imran stressed on dispelling the impression that PTI was against the Army and he also paid rich tributes to the martyrs of the defense forces for their sacrifices for the people and the country and shared the pain of their families whom he considered pride of the nation.

Is it a genuine retraction from his earlier anti-Army narrative after having realized his folly that has landed him into deep trouble after 9th May or a tactical posturing to get some kind of clemency is difficult to conclude readily. Whatever the consideration behind this u-turn may be the thing is that it is rather too late on his part.

The social media warriors of PTI within the country and abroad whom Imran Khan now wants dissociated from the party have been doing persistent anti-establishment propaganda with the nod of approval from him. It was he who after his exit from power as a result of a constitutional process built an anti-Army mindset which culminated in the 9th May attacks on military installations and memorials of the martyrs. It was a classic case of the Frankenstein having turned on his own creators. According to the former Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, it was a conspiracy for revolt within the Army. What happened on that fateful day constituted rebellion against the state which is the most serious and unpardonable crime. The Army undoubtedly is the custodian of state security and symbol of national integration. Any attempt to undermine its position or fomenting rebellion within its

ranks comes under the domain of sedition.

One is amazed at the audacity of PTI leadership to point an accusing finger towards the agencies for having carried out those attacks while the entire nation watched on their TV screens the faces that unleashed those assaults, including the nephew of the PTI chairman, and also heard the audios of other PTI leaders confirming their involvement. When the state moved to arrest all those involved in these attacks after thorough investigations, including geo-fencing, the party started propagating that these arrests were a violation of the fundamental rights of those individuals and that the women arrested were subjected to maltreatment including rape. That contention though was nullified by the arrested women during their appearance before the court laying bare the falsehood that the party and its leaders were trying to rub in.

The fact that it was the implementation of a preplanned strategy under the instructions of none other than Imran Khan himself, as confirmed by a number of former stalwarts of PTI who have said adieu to the party and also condemned the 9th May incidents, it leaves no doubt about the mastermind of the scheme.

Nevertheless, the party continued its anti-Army rhetoric with unrelenting intensity till the time Imran has come to the realization that it was difficult for him and his party to come out of the pit that they dug for themselves and have fallen into it. This realization has come only when cases against the involved individuals and Imran himself are moving fast towards their logical end.

It is pertinent to mention that the Corps Commanders’ meeting that was held immediately after the 9th May clearly identified PTI as the party behind the attacks and vowed not to spare the persons

involved and the mastermind behind them. The National Security Committee as well as the national assembly joined in echoing the same sentiments. What the PTI workers did on the instructions of Imran Khan could not have been done by even our worst enemies in the region. If it was really a conspiracy for a coup within the Army as revealed by the former Prime Minister, it was a formidable move which if succeeded could have disastrous consequences for the country as well as the institution of the Army. Nobody in his right mind would wish any clemency for such elements who are involved in anti-state acts. There is a need to make an example out of those who conspired and carried out attacks on the Army installations so that nobody could ever think of repeating this folly. The state comes first.

Its security and writ take precedence over all other

It is pertinent to mention that the Corps CommandersÊ meeting that was held immediately after the 9th May clearly identified PTI as the party behind the attacks and vowed not to spare the persons involved and the mastermind behind them. The National Security Committee as well as the national assembly joined in echoing the same sentiments. What the PTI workers did on the instructions of Imran Khan could not have been done by even our worst enemies in the region.

Another managed election will be disastrous

The night before election, ruling party activists and a section of officials and law enforcers stuffed ballot boxes in many constituencies

I

DAILY STAR

Dr BaDiul alaM MajuMDar

T is now all but certain that we will have another “managed,” one-sided parliamentary election on January 7, 2024. A parallel can perhaps be drawn with the 2014 national election, and several city corporation polls held in 2018. The 2018 national election was also a variant of this. Through these so-called polls, people were denied their voting rights, causing serious harm to our democratic system. It goes without saying that another such election can have dire consequences for the nation.

It may be recalled that before the 2018 election, the ruling party had carried out an experiment by managing several local government elections, beginning with the Khulna city corporation polls held on June 15, 2018. In Gazipur, Rajshahi, Barishal and Sylhet city polls, this model was also explored, which was a curtain opener to what was to happen in the 11th parliamentary election. All of these polls were participatory, as all political parties, including BNP, were in contest.

These managed elections had some essential features. The government used law enforcement agencies to file cases and drove supporters of BNP candidates out of their homes, preventing them from carrying out election campaigns. On election day, ruling party activists gathered in front of polling centres, intimidating their rivals to prevent them from showing up to vote. Then, they suddenly and selectively captured polling booths to stamp ballots and stuff ballot boxes, except in Barishal, where all centres were captured right after voting opened.

Meanwhile, polling agents of BNP candidates were either prevented from showing up or interned by police in jail on election day. The EC, then headed by KM Nurul Huda, looked the other way and did nothing to prevent the electoral offences committed by police and ruling party activists. Based on the bitter experiences of the city corporation polls, the opposition parties were unwilling to participate in the 2018 election, to be held under the party in power because of the 15th amendment—the constitutionality of which is seriously questioned by experts.

The government calibrated its model of managed election to meet this challenge. The prime minister held dialogues with opposition parties and promised to make the 11th parliamentary election free and fair. Meanwhile, the ruling party,

often with police assistance, unleashed violence and other intimidating tactics against opposition leaders and candidates.

The EC also cancelled the candidacy of many opposition candidates, and the court declared many ineligible to contest.

Law enforcement agencies were used for vetting those on election duty to make sure only ruling party loyalists were appointed, and cases, mostly fake, were filed by police against many opposition leaders and activists, which resulted either in their arrests or them staying out of their constituencies. The night before election, ruling party activists and a section of officials and law enforcers stuffed ballot boxes in many constituencies. On election day, ruling party activists selectively captured booths, stamped ballot papers and stuffed ballot boxes in many constituencies. Astonishingly, a 100 percent turnout rate, or even more, was recorded in some centres, and many centres also saw zero votes for BNP and Jatiya Party (and even for the ruling party in two centres)— indicating that ballot papers were not counted in many centres.

These manipulations made the 2018 election non-competitive, despite being participatory, allowing the ruling party and its allies to “win” 289 out of 300 seats.

Faced with many challenges caused by misgovernance, the government has further calibrated this model for the upcoming election. A partisan Election Commission was appointed in violation of the relevant law, which allows only political parties and professional bodies to nominate names for appointment to the EC. The Search Committee opened this can of worms, allowing legally ineligible persons to nominate names.

Then, the EC registered some “king’s parties,” and denied registration to several other active political parties.

Besides, the commission declared that it would not take responsibility for political harassment of opposition parties.

And so, many BNP leaders and activists were arrested under old cases filed since 2015. Many of these cases were fast-

tracked to convict potential BNP candidates before the election. On top of that, police filed dozens of new cases after the violence of October 28, arrested almost all top leaders of BNP, and forced many to be on the run. Meanwhile, the administration used law enforcement and other agencies to pressure leaders of BNP and other marginal parties to join the king’s parties to contest the election.

Clearly, the above “engineering” has been carried out to keep BNP out, while pressuring and facilitating the fringe and king’s parties to be in the contest to make the election look participatory.

The ruling party has also decided to allow so-called rebel and dummy candidates to avoid the ignominy of the 2014 election—where the majority of MPs were elected unopposed—and to increase voter turnout, as if a high turnout can invalidate all other concerns.

As I have repeatedly underscored, election means an exercise of choice among legitimate options. In other words, genuine elections require voters, the opportunity for them to choose from legitimate or worthy alternatives, and the freedom to make that choice. In Bangladesh’s politics, there are two dominant brands: Awami League and BNP. If one of them is absent from the electoral contest—and rival candidates are picked by the other party—the results are almost pre-determined. Such an exercise, depriving voters of the opportunity to choose from legitimate alternatives, would not pass the test of a genuine election.

The consequences of such a sham election is bound to be dire, as we may experience an economic meltdown in the coming days. It will be dire for the ruling party too, as its actions once again will lead to disenfranchising voters. Continued denial of voting and other political and democratic rights is bound to become a very serious threat in the future.

Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar is secretary of SHUJAN: Citizens for Good Governance.

things. Human rights are contingent upon allegiance to the state.

In view of the seriousness of the crimes and the fact that they carried out attacks against military installations, they must be tried in the military courts as decided by the corps commanders and approved by the national security committee and the national assembly. The verdict given by the 5-member bench against these trials in the military courts needs to be revisited. It is generally believed that the verdict given by the like-minded judges headed by Justice Ijaz Ul Ahsan was meant to favor PTI. The question is that if civilians could be tried in the military courts for having attacked APS, then what is the logic in denying that when attacks were carried out directly against the Army installations? As per the Army Act, civilians involved in attacks against Army installations are liable to be tried in the military courts.

Having said that, I am of the firm and considered opinion that the PTI as a party should not be banned or deprived of participation in the ensuing elections. Except those who are responsible for the 9th May mayhem, all other members of the party should be allowed to contest the elections. The experience of banning political parties in the past has not been useful as far as strengthening democracy is concerned. The party, like other political outfits, must be allowed to hold public rallies and conventions without any hindrance. That is imperative to ensure the credibility of the election results. The caretaker government and ECP owe it to the people to hold free and fair elections.

Malik Muhammad Ashraf is an academic. He can be contacted at: ashpak10@gmail.com.

India accidentally hired a DEA agent to kill Sikh American activist The Indian official allegedly agreed to pay $100,000 for the murder of Pannun, with a $15,000 advance paid to the undercover agent

O

INTERCEPT

Murtaza Hussain

N Wednesday, the Justice Department announced it had filed charges against a man allegedly working for the Indian government to orchestrate the assassination of a U.S. citizen earlier this year. An Indian government official allegedly instructed Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, to coordinate the murder of a Sikh separatist living in New York.

The indictment alleges that Gupta, after being recruited by the Indian government official, hired a hitman and paid him a $15,000 advance to carry out the murder this past summer.

The hitman was actually an undercover agent for the Drug Enforcement Administration. According to a report on the indictment in the Washington Post, the intended target of the killing was Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, general counsel for the New York-based Sikh activist group Sikhs for Justice. In the DEA’s press release, Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen said investigators had “foiled and exposed a dangerous plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen on U.S. soil.”

The alleged assassination plot against Pannun was in the works around the same time as the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen who was also a leader in the Sikh separatist movement. Nijjar was murdered outside Vancouver in June; the Canadian government has alleged the involvement of Indian intelligence in his death.

The Indian government has come under scrutiny over an alleged transnational assassination program targeting its opponents in foreign countries. In addition to the murder of Nijjar, The Intercept has also reported on alleged FBI warnings to Sikhs in the U.S. as well as alleged plots

by India to assassinate Sikh activists in Pakistan.

Both the Nijjar killing and the Gupta plot came ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to the U.S. in June. “India showed a clear disregard for the rule of law when its government orchestrated the killing of an American activist on U.S. soil, coinciding with Modi’s White House visit,” said Pritpal Singh, a coordinator for the American Sikh Caucus Committee who was among the Sikh American activists who were contacted by the FBI after Nijjar’s killing.

The details in the indictment reveal a murder-for-hire plot gone awry. Gupta, 52, described as being tied to the international weapons and narcotics trade, was alleged to have worked as a co-conspirator to an Indian government official with a background in security and intelligence.

Along with others based in India and elsewhere, Gupta helped plan the murder of Pannun over his advocacy for an independent Sikh state and criticisms of the Indian government. In return, the government official indicated he would help se-

cure the dismissal of criminal charges against Gupta in India, including during a meeting in New Delhi to discuss the plot. The Indian government official provided Gupta with details about Pannun, including his address, associated phone numbers, and his daily routine, which Gupta then gave to the DEA agent working undercover as a hitman.

According to the indictment, the Indian government official told Gupta that he was targeting multiple people in the U.S. In communications, the Indian official told Gupta that he had a “target in New York” as well as another target in California.

Gupta replied: ”We will hit our all Targets.” The indictment also indicated that Pannun was surveilled in New York using a cellphone application that tracks GPS coordinates and enables the user to take photographs. The Indian official allegedly agreed to pay $100,000 for the murder of Pannun, with a $15,000 advance paid to the undercover agent around June 9, according to the indictment.

Nijjar was fatally shot less than 10 days later outside a Sikh temple in the Vancouver suburbs.

According to the indictment, Gupta instructed the DEA hitman to kill Pannun “as soon as possible,” but not when high-level meetings were expected to take place between U.S. and Indian officials. Modi was scheduled to visit the U.S. on an official trip between June 21 and 23.

On June 18, the day of Nijjar’s murder, the Indian government official sent Gupta a video of the Sikh leader slumped dead in his car. The next day, Gupta allegedly contacted the undercover DEA agent to tell them that Nijjar, like Pannun, had also been targeted for his opposition to the Indian government, telling the agent, “We have so many targets.” Gupta also allegedly promised “more jobs, more jobs” to the hitman, referring to more assassinations that would be carried out in the future. In a video call with the DEA agent, roughly a week before the killing of Nijjar, Gupta and a group of men dressed in business attire and seated in a conference room allegedly told the agent, “We are all counting on you.”

There is mounting evidence that India is running a transnational targeted killing program against dissidents. Documents reported by The Intercept last week alleged that India’s Research and Analysis Wing was coordinating the murders of individuals in Pakistan, using local criminal networks and assets based in the United Arab Emirates and Afghanistan. A slew of Sikh and Kashmiri separatists in Pakistan have been killed over the past few years, the pace of which has picked up in recent months. Such killings may be taking place in the West as well. In addition to Nijjar, in recent years a number of Sikh activists have died in mysterious circumstances in the United Kingdom and Canada, prompting accusations from family members and others of Indian government involvement.

According to the indictment, Gupta was arrested in the Czech Republic in late June. He is charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. Gupta is currently “in jail waiting to answer these charges,” according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office press release.

The accusations against Gupta expand the scope of what is publicly known about India’s alleged assassination campaign in Western countries. “These revelations are deeply unsettling and have shocked our community,” said Singh.

“The Indian rogue regime must be held accountable, and the perpetrators must face justice.”

06 NEWS

INDIA’S MODI SEEN UNSTOPPABLE AFTER SURPRISE STATE POLLS SWEEP

I

NEW DELHI REUTERS

NDIA’s opposition faces a “herculean task” in next year’s general elections against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which wrested control of key states in a surprisingly strong showing in local polls.

The defeat of Congress in all three heartland states, which was announced on Sunday, dashed any notion that the opposition could pose a serious challenge through a newly formed 28-party alliance led by the party that has ruled India for 54 years since independence from Britain, analysts and politicians said.

It also showcased the organisational strength of the BJP and the appeal of Modi’s presidential-style campaigning, even though he was not on the ticket, just five months before national elections in which he will seek a third term in office.

“After these results, it looks like there is no stopping Modi,” said Yashwant Deshmukh, poll expert with CVoter agency, adding that stopping Modi would be a “herculean task”.

The BJP won the regional votes in three of four major states, including central Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh which

were ruled by Congress.

Modi swept to power in 2014 on a pitch for stability and growth from what he described as the corruption and poor governance of Congress. He consolidated his victory by boosting the economy, offering more welfare and pushing an aggressive brand of Hindu nationalism, winning a second term in 2019.

He remains popular and surveys show he is the favourite to win the 2024

Multiple commercial vessels attacked in Red Sea RIYADH

AGENCIES

Three commercial vessels came under attack in international waters in the southern Red Sea, the US military said Sunday, as Yemen’s Houthi group claimed drone and missile attacks on two Israeli vessels in the area.

The Carney, an American destroyer, responded to distress calls and provided assistance following missile and drone launches from Houthi-controlled territory, according to US Central Command.

Yemen’s Houthi movement said its navy had attacked two Israeli ships, Unity Explorer and Number 9, with an armed drone and a naval missile. A spokesperson for the group’s military said the two ships were targeted after they rejected warnings, without elaborating. In a broadcast statement, the spokesperson said the attacks were in response to the demands of the Yemeni people and calls from Islamic nations to stand with the Palestinian people.

The US military said the Carney shot down three drones as it helped the commercial vessels. It was not clear if the warship was a target.

It said the attacks were a threat to international commerce. “We also have every reason to believe that these attacks, while launched by the Houthis in Yemen, are fully enabled by Iran,” the statement said.

“The United States will consider all appropriate responses in full coordination with its international allies and partners,” it added.

An Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the two ships had no connection to Israel.

“One ship was significantly damaged and it is in distress and apparently is in danger of sinking and another ship was lightly damaged,” Hagari told reporters in Tel Aviv. The reported incident follows a series of attacks in Middle Eastern waters since war broke out between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Oct. 7.

An Israeli-linked cargo ship was seized in November by the Houthis, allies of Iran. The group, which controls most of Yemen’s Red Sea coast, had previously fired ballistic missiles and armed drones at Israel and vowed to target more Israeli vessels.

Multiple engagements The Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier Unity Explorer is owned by Unity Explorer Ltd and managed by London-based Dao Shipping Ltd, LSEG data showed.

The ship was scheduled to arrive in Singapore on Dec. 15. Number 9, which was headed to Suez port, is a Panama-flagged container ship owned by Number 9 Shipping Ltd and managed by Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK-based Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), the data showed.

BSM said in a statement to Reuters Number 9 is currently sailing and there were no reports of injuries or pollution after the incident. The vessel was hit by a projectile while transiting the Bab alMandab Strait, the company said. Unity Explorer’s owners and managers could not be reached immediately for comments.

election. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has worked hard to revive the party in recent years. He led a 135-day march across the country, changed the party’s leadership and pushed to form the 28party alliance called INDIA, wooing voters with payouts.

A Congress victory in the big southern state of Karnataka this year was touted by the party as the beginning of its comeback — until Sunday’s results

came in and prompted soul searching within the party instead.

“We need to go back to the drawing board and seriously assess what really went wrong, why we were not able to get the confidence of people,” senior Congress lawmaker Manish Tewari told Reuters.

“You need a programme which will enthuse people, which will be seen as an alternative.” One of the challenges facing the opposition are the factious ties within the INDIA alliance.

Congress refused to share seats in state polls with key regional ally the Samajwadi Party. Spokesperson Manoj Kaka told Reuters Congress did not seem “fully committed” to the alliance.

“The future of the alliance is good if the Congress party works on it with full commitment,” he said.

Asked about the fate of the alliance, K.C. Venugopal, a senior Congress leader and close aide of Gandhi, said alliance partners would hold talks soon. He declined to elaborate.

After Sunday, the BJP now foresees a “massive victory”, said party Vice President Baijayant Panda.

“The severe bickering among themselves leaves zero hope for this so-called alliance to pose any challenge to the BJP whatsoever,” Panda added.

Israel says ground forces operating across Gaza Strip TEL AVIV

AGENCIES

The return to open warfare after a truce between Israel and Hamas expired has had ripple effects around a region on the cusp of a wider conflagration.

Since the expiry of the truce on Friday, fighting in Gaza has resumed between Hamas and Israeli troops, as have launches of rockets toward Israel and Israeli air strikes on the Palestinian territory.

Over the weekend, Israeli air strikes on northern Gaza threw thick clouds of smoke and dust into the sky.

On Sunday, the Israeli army reported a string of rocket salvos from Gaza into Israel, claiming that most had been intercepted.

The Palestinian government in Gaza and the official news agency Wafa said a strike had hit the entrance of the Kamal Adwan hospital in the north of the territory late Sunday.

Several people were killed in the strike, the news agency said, while Hamas accused Israel on Telegram of a “grave violation” of humanitarian law.

Contacted by AFP, the Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strike.

Israel says Hamas uses hospitals and other civilian infrastructure for military purposes — an accusation that the resistance group denies.

“The IDF continues to expand its ground operation against main Hamas fronts in the Gaza Strip,” Israel military spokesman Daniel Hagari said on Sunday.

“Wherever there is a Hamas stronghold, the IDF operates,” he said, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas in retaliation for the resistance group’s October 7 attacks into Israel.

An estimated 240 others were taken as captives into Gaza during the attacks.

The Gaza health ministry says more than 15,500 people have been killed in the territory since October 7, more than half of them women and children.

Under a truce mediated by Qatar with support from Egypt and the United States, 80 Israeli captives were freed, in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli jails.

More than two dozen other captives were also freed from Gaza.

However, fighting resumed between the two sides on Friday despite international calls for an extension.

The next day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israeli negotiators were being withdrawn from Qatar “following the impasse in the negotiations” aimed at renewing the truce.

With 137 captives still held in Gaza, according to the Israeli military, Hamas has ruled out more releases until a permanent ceasefire is agreed.

On Sunday, the Israeli military said it had carried out around 10,000 air strikes since the war started. Israel on Sunday said two of its soldiers had died in combat, the first since the end of the truce.

“In the past few hours, only 316 dead and 664 injured people have been rescued from the rubble and taken to hospital, but many others are still stuck under the rubble,” Gaza’s health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said in a statement.

The mounting death toll in Gaza has sparked growing international concern over Israel’s conduct of the war to eradicate Hamas.

On Sunday, hospitals in southern Gaza were overflowing with dead and wounded, some crying out in pain.

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

Commitment to Caribbean Climate Action: Blue Carbon signs MoU with Saint Lucia at COP28 DUBAI

AGENCIES

In another momentous development at COP28 in Dubai, Blue Carbon, a UAE-based environmental solutions developer, has solidified its shared dedication to accelerating the achievement of the targets of the Paris Agreement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Saint Lucia.

Together, they will explore, develop, and assess opportunities aligned with the creation of Mitigation Outcomes (MOs) as outlined in Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. These MOs hold transformative potential, as they may be transacted as Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs), contributing to global emission reduction efforts while advancing crucial climate adaptation and resilience co-benefits.

The MOU represents a significant step in advancing the objectives of the Paris Agreement, offering Caribbean countries such as Saint Lucia the opportunity to tap into significant climate financing mechanisms and securing essential funding for sustainable development and climate resilience.

The initiatives outlined in the MOU not only contribute to global climate goals but also play a critical role in fostering adaptation and resilience within Caribbean countries like St.Lucia which are vulnerable to rising sea levels and floodings.

This strategic collaboration follows a series of strategic MOUs signed by Blue Carbon in the Caribbean, including recent partnerships with Dominica and the Bahamas. The signing ceremony took place during COP28, underlining the company’s dedication to advancing mitigation and adaptation efforts in the fight against climate change.

Blue Carbon is a UAE based company that specializes in maximizing environmental assets and undertaking nature-based solution projects dedicated to carbon credit origination. Recognizing the credibility of International Transferable Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) as high-integrity, high-value carbon credits, Blue Carbon operates within the framework provided

by Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

In alignment with its commitment to environmental stewardship, Blue Carbon actively engages with governments and relevant stakeholders to shape blueprints that involve the private sector in the operationalization of Article 6.

As the implementation details of Article 6 are being finalized, Blue Carbon plays a pivotal role in facilitating in-principle agreements from host countries. This approach ensures the seamless transfer of credits under the framework of Article 6, thereby assisting these countries in maximizing the value of their environmental assets.

Experts laud China for advocating, contributing to global human rights BEIJING

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

During a seminar held by the China Society for Human Rights Studies on Monday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the society’s president Padma Choling highlighted China’s role as a contributor, advocator and practitioner of the declaration over the years.

While some countries highly politicize and weaponize human rights, China has played a very important role in promoting the development of international human rights, calling for a comprehensive human rights system, said experts. The seminar was held ahead of International Human Rights Day on December 10, the day when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, to commemorate this milestone document and its development over the decades.

More than 70 participants, including officials from central and national agencies, representatives from cen-

tral media departments, human rights experts, scholars and representatives from various social organizations gathered together for the seminar held in Beijing.

Padma Choling, who is also a vice chairperson of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress (NPC), noted that China, as an active participant in drafting the declaration, infused the rich human rights philosophy inherent in Chinese civilization into the document during the drafting process.

Padma Choling said that the concept of benevolence and love in traditional Chinese culture injects a more universal value foundation into the Declaration, while the philosophy of harmony with nature in Chinese civilization provides ideological support for the declaration. He said that the concept of community in Chinese society supplements the declaration with a perspective of obligation, thereby providing feasible solutions for the comprehensive and free development of individuals.

The integration of Eastern culture makes the declaration a truly global human rights declaration, he noted.

For the past 75 years, China has been an active ad-

vocate of the spirit of the Declaration, consistently emphasizing that the development of human rights is a common cause for all humanity, Padma Choling said.

China firmly rejects a singular understanding of the development path of human rights, and opposes the forced promotion of “universal” human rights systems. China’s concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind has been incorporated into more than 10 resolutions of the UN Human Rights Council.

Nearly 100 million impoverished rural residents have been lifted out of poverty, and the world’s largest education system, social security system, and healthcare system have been established in the country. China has practiced true multilateralism, actively participated in global human rights governance, and safeguarded the orderly operation of the international human rights mechanism with the United Nations at its core, said Padma Choling. He called on researchers of human rights to become interpreters of the contemporary Chinese human rights perspective, construct a theoretical system and discourse system of Chinese human rights, showcase the image of China.

China aims to promote pragmatic cooperation with Belarus BEIJING

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Beijing on Monday. Aside from vowing to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation, Xi told Lukashenko that China firmly supports Belarus in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, and opposes external interference in Belarus’ internal affairs.

Lukashenko visited China from February 28 to March 2 this year. Chinese experts said it showed the special importance Minsk attaches to relations with Beijing, as well as Belarus’ intention to “look East.” Observers believe that China’s ties with Belarus will be further consolidated via seamless bilateral cooperation, strong political trust and staunch support for each other on multilateral platforms.

According to the Xinhua News Agency, Xi pointed out that he and Lukashenko reached important consensus on promoting the high-level development of China-Belarus relations during Lukashenko’s state visit to China earlier this year. The two coun-

tries have strengthened political mutual trust and international coordination since then.

China always views its relations with Belarus from a strategic and long-term perspective, firmly supports Belarus in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, and opposes external interference in Belarus’ internal affairs, Xi said.

“China is willing to continue to strengthen strategic coordination with Belarus, firmly support each other, promote practical cooperation and deepen bilateral relations,” Xi said.

Xi stressed that more than 150 countries have signed Belt and Road Initiative cooperation documents a decade after he proposed the initiative, adding that he announced not long ago eight major steps China would take to support the joint pursuit of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

“China welcomes Belarus to continue its active participation and gain more tangible development opportunities from it.”

Xi called on the two sides to implement projects such as the China-Belarus Industrial Park, push for more results in industrial cooperation, and further facilitate cross-border trans-

port to promote trade and personnel exchanges.

He said both sides should expand cooperation in education, health, sports and tourism, support exchanges and cooperation between the youth, and enhance understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Noting that China and Belarus are important forces in the reform and development of the global governance system, Xi said China is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Belarus within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, and advance the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Belarus sincerely hopes that China will grow stronger, as this is conducive to peace and progress in the world, Lukashenko noted.

Belarus is committed to developing friendly relations and is willing to keep close high-level exchanges with China, firmly support each other, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthen international

and multilateral strategic coordination, and push for greater development of the allweather comprehensive strategic partnership, Lukashenko said.

The two heads of state also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis.

Two visits within a year is not common,

and shows that Belarus is attaching more importance to China on both diplomatic and economic fronts, said Zhang Hong, an associate research fellow at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER

Google celebrates the success of 94 Pakistani game and app development studios graduating from the second edition of Google’s App Growth Lab program. PR

National Commission for Human Rights Report on state of women's shelters launched

QUETTA: The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) and UN Women, on launched “More than Shelters, Needs Assessment of Dar ul Amans & Shelters in Pakistan” - a comprehensive report on the state of women's shelters, Dar ul Amans, in Pakistan.

The report is based on extensive on-site research, comprehensive inspections, and in-depth interviews with residents of the shelters. It focuses on identifying gaps in policies, implementation, and budgets, providing actionable recommendations for strengthening these essential services.

The launch event was organized as part of the activities to commemorate ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence’ aligning with the 2023 theme ‘Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls.’ The report launch was aimed at initiating a collective effort towards enhancing the quality and effectiveness of women's shelters and was attended by representatives of governmental bodies, civil society, women's groups, and the international community. PR

47% of Asia Pac businesses have no emissions plan in place despite the climate emergency, reveals new report from ACCA, IFAC and PwC

LAHORE: As world leaders gather for COP 28, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Accountants), IFAC (the International Federation of Accountants) and professional services firm PwC released a new report: The role of the CFO and finance function in the climate transition: driving value and sustainability, based on a survey of 1,000 senior finance professionals around the world. The research reveals 47% of respondents in the Asia Pacific region have yet to produce a plan for reducing their carbon emissions. Alarmingly, 69% of those respondents without an emissions plan say they currently have no intention of developing one.

This compares with global figures of 46% of respondents who have yet to prepare an emissions plan and 70% of those say they currently have no intention of developing one. PR

Cheezy Success: Cheezious Lights up Peshawar with Grand Opening of 32nd Outlet

ISLAMABAD: Cheezious, the renowned culinary destination known for its delectable offerings, proudly announces the grand opening of its 32nd outlet on University Road, Peshawar. The momentous occasion was celebrated with the presence of esteemed guests, including Chief Guest HBK Mr. Haji Bahadur Khan, Mr. Shafi Ullah Khan (DG KPK Halal Food Authority), Mr. Iqbal Wazeer (DC Peshawar), the President of Peshawar Chamber of Commerce.

Cheezious, standing as a culinary trailblazer in the city, holds the distinguished honor of being the only restaurant in Peshawar to receive a coveted 4-star rating from the KPK Food Authority. This accolade reflects the commitment and dedication of the entire Cheezious team towards delivering an unparalleled dining experience.

Director of Operations, Abdul Qadir Khan, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception from the local community, acknowledging their love and support that enabled Cheezious to establish its second outlet. He highlighted how the connection with the local people has been instrumental in the restaurant's success. PR

Pakistan-Qatar IT conference kickstarts in Doha ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan-Qatar IT Conference has commenced in Doha under the auspices of Pakistan Software Houses Association and Pakistan Business Council of Qatar to promote IT industry in the both countries.

Caretaker Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Dr Umar Saif opened it.

During his address at the conference, Dr Umar Saif introduced the technological prowess of Pakistan to a diverse audience, comprising both business leaders and government executives in Qatar.

Attended by the Pakistani diaspora in Qatar and representatives from 30 leading IT companies in Pakistan, the gathering set the tone for fostering stronger bilateral relations. The event underscored the collaborative efforts to explore and harness the vast untapped potential in Qatar for the mutual benefit of both nations.

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SCCI VOICES CONCERN OVER INCREASE IN GAS PRICES FOR INDUSTRIES NEWS

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PESHAWAR

AZIZ BUNERI

ARHAD Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Fuad Ishaq expressed concern over increase in gas prices for the industries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, including textiles to Rs3176 per mmbtu under the blended gas policy.

By imposing 80 per cent natural gas and 20 per percent RLNG rate on KP, he demanded to withdraw 18 per cent sales tax on industrial sector as the province is surplus gas production, Speaking at a joint press conference here president of Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Fuad Ishaq and Chairman, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Textile Mills Association Kamran Shah here at the chamber house on Monday said it is completely just to impose excessive gas prices on K-P wherein gas production is surplus which was also sheer violation of the article 158 of the constitution of the country.

Members of the business community said 50 percent industries in KP have shut after imposition of the blended gas policy in KP and RLNG rate, making not only running businesses and industries difficult but impossible in the province.

In response to various queries of the reporters, Fuad Ishaq said that the total gas production of KP is 550mmcfds against its consumption 200mmcfds, and imposition of the blended gas policy on this

province is highly alarming.

Not a single industrial gas connection was given to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 13 years, contrary to that industrial gas connections were provided in Punjab, which was tantamount of discriminatory attitude, Fuad Ishaq added.

During the presser, Senior leader of the businessman forum, former senator Ilyas Ahmad Bilour, the SCCI senior vice president Sanaullah Khan, vice president Ijaz Khan Afridi, former presidents Riaz Arshad, Malik Niaz Ahmad, Faiz Muhammad Faizi, executive member Affaf Ali Khan, former chairman KPTMA Afan Aziz, KPTMA vice chairman Sikandar Kuli Khan Khattak, businessmen attached with textile sector include Irfan Moten, Ashaf Ahmad, Engr Ihsanulllah, Muhammad Shoaib, Engr Matiullah, Muhammad Ayub, Arifullah, Muhammad Safdar Khan, former vice president Abidullah Yousafzai, and Saddar Gul, Faiz Rasool, Fazl e Wahid, Ishtiaq Muhammad and others present.

The businessmen said imposition of the blended gas policy with a ratio of 80/20 was completely unjust and against the constitution of the country.

The KPTMA chairman said the textile industry is the backbone for the country’s economy. He informed that out of 15 textile units, seven have almost shut in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under the prevailing scenario while rest of industrial units were run with capacity of 50 per cent.

Furthermore, he informed textile industries

How engagement & political activism can empower youth in Pakistan?

NEWS DESK

AREEJ FATIMA

Despite internal chaos, high poverty and unemployment, gender and religious inequality, and limited access to education and healthcare, Pakistan faces many challenges. However, the country’s youth are working to catalyze positive change.

Striving to empower their country’s future, Pakistani youth are engaging politically and calling for reforms. Through activism, they demand greater transparency and accountability from the government, along with improved access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, so that Pakistan may prosper.

Their participation in the democratic process is crucial in ensuring that the country’s future leaders are representative of the people they will be governing.

Youth voter participation in Pakistan has declined substantially in recent years. In the 2013 general election, only 36% of eligible voters aged 18-29 cast a ballot, a significant decrease from the 52% turnout among young people in the 2007 election. This troubling trend suggests growing political disengagement and apathy among Pakistani youth.

The declining engagement among young people can be attributed to several reasons. Chief among them is the perception of a political system that is corrupt and does not address the needs of everyday citizens. This perception fosters a dangerous sense of powerlessness and cynicism in youth.

The rise of social media and the internet is another factor behind declining youth political engagement. While these platforms give young people spaces to discuss and debate politics, they also enable the spread of misinformation and propaganda that can breed apathy and detachment from the political process among youth who feel their voices go unheard.

Pakistan has a very young population, with over 60% of its people under 30 years old. This demographic reality poses both challenges and opportunities. A large youth cohort can spur instability and unrest. However, if properly engaged, Pakistan’s youth also represent tremendous potential to power sustainable development.

Though Pakistan’s youth have

tremendous potential to drive positive change, limited opportunities for employment, education, and political participation pose significant obstacles for this generation.

Empowering Pakistan’s youth is crucial for sustainable development, as investing in education and employment for young people can reduce poverty and insecurity while promoting social and economic growth. Furthermore, increasing youth involvement in decision-making will help ensure Pakistan’s development is fairer and more inclusive.

As Pakistan’s most valuable asset, its youth represent the key to a more prosperous and sustainable future for the country. Investing in the next generation will allow Pakistan to unlock their potential and build long-term national success.

Pakistan’s future hinges on youth engagement in politics. Without young people participating in the political process, the country cannot make the progress required to address its challenges. The government and civil society must therefore increase youth political engagement through avenues like expanding access to information, offering civic involvement opportunities, and leveraging social media to connect with youth.

While Pakistan faces serious challenges like poverty, terrorism, and corruption stemming from years of political turmoil, the country’s youth hold unique potential to help overcome these problems.

Youth engagement in politics is vital for democracy, as young people contribute fresh outlooks and vitality to the political process.

More open than older adults to new concepts and approaches, youth represent the country’s future leaders; their early involvement in the political system allows them to gain valuable experience.

To increase political involve-

State-of-the-art fast-track service introduced by CDA

ISLAMABAD: Building Control Directorate of Capital Development Authority (CDA) has introduced state-of-the-art fast-track service by modernizing the system of providing amenities to the citizens. In this context, on Monday, CDA has started to ensure the approval of the building plan in the facilitation center on fast track. Under this modern and fastest system, residential buildings of 356 yards will now be approved with an additional fee of 20,000 thousand with required documents within 2 days, while residential buildings larger than 356 yards will be approved with a fee of 30,000 thousand.Additionally, commercial buildings up to 10000 square yards will also be approved within 3 days. A separate desk has also been established for all these matters. It should be noted that the citizens coming to this place will not have to stand in the line of one window separately.

Similarly, arrangements have been made to sit in a good environment for the citizens who come here.

After receiving the token, the citizens came to the fast track service will be able to go to the relevant desk on their number and get their case processed by the relevant desk. PR

ment among young people, we can take action on individual, community, and institutional levels.

At the individual level, young people can make a commitment to learn about the political process and to get involved in the issues that matter to them. They can also encourage their friends and peers to do the same.

At the community level, schools and youth organizations can provide opportunities for young people to learn about and participate in the political process.

For example, schools can offer civics courses and student government organizations can give young people a chance to get involved in the decision-making process.

At the institutional level, political parties and the government can do more to engage with and listen to young people. For example, they can create youth wings within political parties and establish youth advisory councils at the local, provincial, and national levels.

Youth engagement in politics is vital for democracy, as it teaches young people the significance of civic participation and democratic ideals while empowering them to help shape Pakistan’s future.

Active youth involvement in politics is vital for good governance, as it enables young people’s perspectives to be represented and their needs addressed.

Young people can participate in the political process through several means, with voting as one of the most vital. Exercising their right to vote allows youth to make their voices heard and influence who holds office. As a fundamental privilege of citizenship, voting empowers young people to shape the political landscape.

Young people can get involved in politics by volunteering their time and skills to campaigns or organizations in various ways, such as distributing flyers, going door-to-door, or assisting with events. Volunteering offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the political process while making a meaningful impact.

Although it is up to young people to choose their own political involvement, active youth participation in governance is vital. It ensures their perspectives are represented and promotes good leadership.

The writer is a scholar at National Defence University.

consumed only 10mmfcds gas wherein the gas is surplus quantity and consumption less despite that discriminatory attitude is being carried out by KP industries, which is highly deplorable.

Former president of the KPTMA, Afan Aziz, said that after increasing the prices and supplying gas at RLNG rates, the prices have now been doubled under the blended gas policy, which is a complete injustice with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He said that efforts are being made to deprive the province affected by terrorism of constitutional rights which is very worrying and this discrimination should be stopped immediately.

Ilyas Bilour in response to a question of reporters said it is not the duty of the business community to fight with the government but we would try to raise issues of the community before it and resolve them with mutual consensus and table talks.

He demanded of the government to ensure due constitutional rights to KP. He added Punjab is also our brother but there should be take care of the rights of smaller provinces.

Fuad Ishaq to a question regarding any future line of action or protest, replied that the business community believes in unity, tolerance and harmony and would always try to resolve issues by negotiation with government and relevant authorities.

He, however, urged the government to review the massive gas price hike and revise its decision in the best interest of industries and the economy of the country.

Ambassador of Somalia calls on IIUI President

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim along with the Rector of Somalia National University, Prof. Dr. Hassan Osman Gaal and the Rector of Somalia’s Benadir University Prof. Dr. Mohamed Mohamud Hassan, Monday, called on H.E. Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) at his office at New Campus. During the meeting issues pertaining to mutual interests including promotions of education and enhancement of educational ties between higher education institutions of both countries were discussed. It was agreed that cooperation from IIUI in various faculties can pave the way for further improvement in Somalian Higher educational Institutions. On this occasion they agreed to strengthen bilateral educational ties between IIUI and Somalian universities. PR

Hutchison Ports Pakistan Launches Third Year of Go Green Plantation Drive

KARACHI: Hutchison Ports Pakistan kicks off the third year of its tree Go Green plantation campaign, under which 100,000 mangrove saplings will be planted at Sonmani. This effort is a vital part of a broader initiative launched in 2021, where Hutchison Ports Pakistan has pledged to sponsor the World Wildlife Fund – Pakistan (WWF-P) to plant 500,000 mangrove saplings across 250 hectares over five years. This ongoing commitment underscores Hutchison Ports Pakistan's dedication to a greener, more sustainable future, exemplifying corporate responsibility and environmental conservation. Changsu Kim, General Manager & Head of Business Unit at Hutchison Ports Pakistan, highlighted the pivotal role of mangroves in climate change mitigation and marine biodiversity enhancement. "This drive is a testament to our commitment to environmental conservation, community development, and sustainable practices.

Beyond its ecological significance, the campaign is poised to act as a catalyst for economic growth, generating numerous green jobs for local communities and labor through the sapling plantation and post care activity. PR

Bahria University hosts participants of the Rector’s Conference organized by Comstech

ITP holds enlightening session on Social Responsibilities of Students

ISLAMABAD: In a proactive initiative, the Islamabad Territory Police, in collaboration with Islamabad Model College for Girls (PostGraduateMargala) F-7/4, hosted an enlightening session on "Social Responsibilities of Students." The event aimed to instill a sense of civic duty and awareness among students. Distinguished speakers from the police force, including SHO Ms. Nazia Rafiq, ASP Saud Khan, and Constables Zaryab and Shiza, highlighted the crucial role students play in fostering a safer and more responsible society. PR

ISLAMABAD: Bahria University, a distinguished member of COMSTECH's Center of Excellence (CCOE), showcased its commitment to fostering global academic collaboration by hosting an exclusive lunch for participants of the Rector’s Conference organized by COMSTECH. Held on December 3rd, 2023, at its main campus in Islamabad, the event aimed to promote international partnerships and nurture academic collaboration.

The exclusive luncheon served as a testament to Bahria University's dedication to facilitating crossborder academic alliances. Esteemed delegates from national and international academia convened, engaging in meaningful discussions, networking sessions, and the formalization of partnerships among universities in OIC countries. PR

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

arrest JUSTICE NAQVI URGES EARLY FIXATION OF PLEAS Non-bailable warrants issued for CHALLENGING SJC MISCONDUCT PROCEEDINGS Malik Riaz,

PRAYER TIMINGS

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ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

USTICE Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi requested on Monday for early fixation of his constitutional petitions challenging the Supreme Judicial Council’s (SJC) proceedings of misconduct against him.

The advocate on record (AOR), on the instruction of Justice Naqvi, responded to the Supreme Court Registrar Office’s notice to inquire as to whether the judge wanted to proceed with his petition.

The application requested that the subject notice be withdrawn and both the petitions be placed before the committee for appropriate orders. It added that after this, the petitions along with the applications for interim relief be numbered and fixed for hearing before a bench of this court.

It is contended that the notice and the order, purportedly passed by the registrar, are ultra vires the Supreme Court Rules, 1980 and the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023. “The Registrar has no authority to inquire from a petitioner whether he or she wants to proceed with a case or not. This notice is, therefore, without jurisdiction and of no legal effect,” he maintained. The judge of the apex court requested in his reply to the assistant registrar (Civil-II) that the two constitutional petitions he filed should be fixed together for a hearing before a three-member bench committee.

In his message, he maintained: “Both constitution petitions raise questions of public importance relating to the en-

forcement of Fundamental Rights.”

He also revealed that his applications have not been numbered yet and that it “is in violation of the provisions of the 2023 Act”. The application continued that first, under the 2023 Act, “the Committee is not authorised to delegate to the registrar its authority under Sections 2, 3 and 4”.

Secondly, it added, that the registrar had no authority under the 2023 Act to determine the maintainability of petitions under Article 184(3) of the Constitution.

Justice Naqvi maintained that the apex court has consistently held that maintainability of a petition was to be decided by a bench of this court and not by the registrar.

“Third, the registrar has no authority to decide whether any constitution petition involves interpretation of constitutional provisions. This authority is exclusively vested in the Committee under Sections 3 and 4 of the 2023 Act,” Justice Naqvi concluded.

It was demanded in the letter that “without prejudice to the above, even as per the Minutes of the Meeting of the Committee dated 26.10.2023 (reproduced in the subject notice) a constitution petition involving interpretation of constitutional provisions is to be placed before the Committee”.

“This notice, with respect, establishes that the registrar has not only failed to act by the provisions of the 2023 Act but has also failed to comply with the express directions of the Committee by choosing not to place these petitions before the Committee,” the letter protested.

‘MISCONDUCT PROCEEDINGS

Shehbaz Sharif pledges equitable development, advocates for Charter of Economy LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

Shehbaz Sharif – the PML-N president and a former prime minister – on Monday promised an equitable development across Pakistan and again presented the proposal of signing a Charter of Economy – an idea that is based upon the Charter of Democracy (CoD) inked for two political rivals Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif back in 2006 to jointly fight for civilian supremacy in Pakistan.

Only a consensus-based national manifesto can rescue Pakistan from the prevailing quagmire, he said about the suggestion he introduced as the leader of opposition during the PTI government while noting that the entire had reached an agreement on the offer.

The former prime minister asked the people to give a clear mandate [majority] in the February 8 elections and said they would work under the leader of Nawaz after a successful campaign as he had always delivered on the economic front.

Shehbaz mentioned that economy would be vitalised through policy actions, not political and emotional statements, as he promised that the marginalised segments of the society – workers, daily-wage labourers, women and others – were to be the PML-N focus, if voted into power.

“People want to get rid of inflation and economic progress. We will root out poverty and provide employment.” But he also stressed that economic vital to achieving enhanced foreign reserves and generating job opportunities for youth.

FIA receives directive to monitor Moonis Elahi’s case LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The Special Central Court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to monitor the case of PTI leader Moonis Elahi in which he was declared an absconder.

The director FIA was told to monitor the proceedings against Moonis, the son of former chief minister Punjab Ch Parvez Elahi.

The court was not satisfied with the compliance report of foreign minister over the notices against the suspect in the money laundering case.

The written order said that the compliance report of notices against the absconder Moonis Elahi isn’t submitted yet in the court.

The director FIA must ensure the implementation of the order in this respective case, ruled the court.

The written order was issued by judge Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh of Special Central Court.

Moonis Elahi was declared proclaimed offender on Nov 13 this year.

WITHOUT LEGAL AUTHORITY’ Three days ago, while vehemently denying the various allegations leveled against him, Justice Naqvi once again requested the apex court to quash the misconduct proceedings initiated against him by the SJC. In his second constitution, Justice Naqvi also requested the court to declare as “without legal authority” the SJC’s second and revised show cause notice issued on November 22.

Separately, the judge also dispatched a letter to a three-member committee of the SC, formed under the newly promulgated Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023, to list his constitutional petitions and applications seeking interim relief expeditiously. The judge has reminded the committee that as per the SC act, it is entrusted with the responsibility of listing petitions filed under Article 184(3) within 14 days.

“However, in spite of these petitions and applications having been filed, the SJC is proceeding against me which is seriously prejudicing my constitutional petitions.” “If any order is passed [by the SJC] on the basis of the proceedings, it may frustrate my submissions, agitated in the constitution petitions,” he adds. The judge has requested the committee to list the case for hearing before a bench not including the SC judges that are part of the SJC. Interestingly, all the three members of the committee — Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and Justice Ijazul Ahsan — are part of the five-member SJC that is holding proceedings against Justice Naqvi.

On October 21, the SJC with a majority vote of three to two issued a show cause notice to Justice Naqvi while reviewing complaints — ten in total — filed against the SC judge earlier this year. The council asked him to file his reply in 14 days.

On November 10, Justice Naqvi submitted his response to the show cause notice, accusing three SJC members – Justice Isa, Justice Masood, and Balochistan High Court (BHC) Chief Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan – of bias and requesting their recusal.

Despite Justice Naqvi’s objections, the SJC set a hearing for November 20 to review the complaints against him. At the end of the next SJC meeting that started on November 20 and continued till November 22, the SJC issued a revised second show cause notice to the judge.

On November 20, Justice Naqvi also lodged a constitution petition in the apex court, contesting the council’s proceedings. He requested the court to nullify the misconduct allegations against him, deeming them “without lawful authority and of no legal effect”. In the petition submitted on Thursday, November 30, the SC judge gave para-wise replies to ten allegations with regard to which the SJC had sought clarification from him on November 22.

While denying all the allegations with regard to listing of cases as well as those related to allegedly wrongful sale and purchase of properties as well as his family sons alleged role as his front men, Justice took serious exception to the use of the word “corruption” in the revised show cause notice.

Nawaz Sharif, Maulana Fazl discuss seat adjustment formula for general elections LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

The def-facto head of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Nawaz Sharif, and the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), Maulana Fazlur Rehman, convened a crucial meeting at the PML-N Secretariat in Lahore’s Model Town on Monday to evolve a joint strategy to jointly win the upcoming general elections.

The meeting focused on strategising a seat adjustment formula for the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.

The leaders engaged in extensive discussions regarding the political landscape of the country, analysing the current political scenario and formulating strategies for the crucial elections.

The meeting carried added significance as Maulana Fazlur Rehman is also the head of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) alliance, which assumed a pivotal role following the ousting of prime minister Imran Khan in 2022.

Among the attendees were prominent leaders from both parties. From the PML-N side, figures such as Maryam Nawaz, Senator Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Saad Rafiq, Marriyum Aurangzeb,

and other key members participated in the discussions.

Representing the JUI-F were its spokesman Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, Engineer Ziaur Rahman, Maulana Syed Mehmood Mian, Maulana Amjad Khan, Hafiz Naseer Ahrar and Ghazanfar Aziz.

The meeting discussed at length various aspects of the political landscape, including the overall political situation of the country. Both parties meticulously discussed their political strategies leading up to the upcoming general elections, highlighting the importance of unity and collaboration in order to navigate the complex political terrain.

Of particular note was the de-

tailed deliberation on the seat adjustment formula. PML-N and JUI-F leaders engaged in negotiations to reach an agreement on how to effectively distribute constituencies, a crucial aspect of electoral collaboration. The outcome of this formula is expected to shape the alliances and power dynamics in the run-up to the elections.

The collaboration between PML-N and JUI-F holds significant implications for the broader political spectrum, potentially altering the balance of power in the post-election scenario. As both parties play influential roles within the PDM, their unified stance could impact the political landscape and influence the formation of the next government.

ECP seeks Army’s assistance for holding upcoming general elections next year ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Amid shortage of Police force, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Monday sought assistance of the Pakistan’s Armed Forces to handle any law and order situation during the upcoming general polls, set to take place on February 8, 2024.

In the lead-up to the polls, all political parties have geared up for a face-off, while the ECP has notified the final list of delimitation of constituencies of the national and four provincial assemblies. The electoral watchdog is also expected to announce the election schedule, later this month — 54 days before the polls in line with the law. During the elections, the security situation remains a source of concern for the authorities and to ensure that nothing goes south, law enforcers are deployed at polling stations and they are also on patrol.

“While the ECP takes all necessary steps to organise an election, […] it also expects the same commitment from the executive authorities and law

enforcement agencies to maintain law and order in the area of the constituencies during the conduct of elections,” the ECP’s letter to the interior ministry reads.

In its bid to prepare for the elections, the ECP had sought a report from all inspector generals of police to determine the availability of police personnel for the polls.

Responding to the ECP’s request, IGPs from all the provinces and the capital said that they did not have enough personnel. Around 4,500 were short in Islamabad, 169,110 Punjab, 56,717 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 33,462 Sindh, and 13,769 in Balochistan — totalling 277,588.

It merits mention that the ECP Secretary Omar Hamid Khan, in the letter to Ministry of Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani, said that keeping in view, the deficiency of police personnel, the services of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces (CAFs) shall have to be “requisitioned in static mode”.

The letter mentioned that the armed forces need to be deployed at polling stations to ensure “smooth elections” in light of the country’s “fragile security cum law and order situation”.

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Shahzad Akbar ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

An Islamabad accountability court on Monday issued non-bailable arrest warrants for property tycoon Malik Riaz, former special assistants to the premier Mirza Shahzad Akbar and Zulfi Bukhari, and three others in the reference filed in connection with the AlQadir Trust case.

Non-bailable arrest warrants were also issued for Farhat Shahzadi, a close friend of the spouse of expremier Imran Khan, lawyer Ziaul Mustafa Nasim, and Riaz’s son Ali Ahmed Riaz.

Last week, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had filed the reference against Imran and seven others, including his wife Bushra Bibi, in connection with the Al-Qadir Trust case.

The case alleges that Imran and Bushra Bibi obtained billions of rupees and land worth hundreds of kanals from Bahria Town Ltd for legalising Rs50 billion that was identified and returned to the country by the UK during the previous PTI government.

The reference filed by NAB alleged that Imran, who is currently in jail, played a “pivotal role in illicit transfer of funds meant for the state of Pakistan into an account designated for the payment of land by Bahria Town, Karachi”.

It also claimed that despite being given multiple opportunities to justify and provide information, the accused deliberately, with mala fide intention, refused to give information on one pretext or another.

Shahzadi, former special assistants to the premier Bukhari and Akbar, lawyer Nasim, and property tycoon Riaz and his son were also named in the reference.

Today, Islamabad Accountability Judge Muhammad Bashir issued a written order, which noted that Imran was already in judicial lockup and was presented in court in connection with another case — the cypher case.

He directed that a notice be issued to the Adiala jail superintendent, where Imran is incarcerated, to produce the PTI leader at the next hearing scheduled for December 6 (Wednesday).

At the same time, the judge noted that Bushra Bibi had secured interim bail from the courts and directed that she be informed to appear at the next hearing.

The other six suspects named in the reference, the judge said, were “stated as at large” and thus ordered that non-bailable arrest warrants be issued and reports be submitted at the next date without fail.

The order said trial proceedings in the reference would be conducted at Adiala jail or wherever those nominated in the case were confined, as per a notification issued by the law ministry on November 14.

The reference said the “accused […] were given multiple opportunities to justify and provide information, but they deliberately, with malafide intention, refused to provide the information on one or the other pretext.

“Furthermore, it is established through their responses that they have nothing in their defence to rebut the above-mentioned allegations. Thus, they all have committed an offence” under the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO).

It added that the investigation proceedings and findings so far “established that accused persons in connivance with each other have committed the offence of corruption and corrupt practices” as defined under the NAO. The reference said Imran played a “pivotal role” in the illicit transfer of funds which were meant for the state which ultimately benefited Riaz.

Akbar, a former special assistant to the premier and Asset Recovery Unit chief, played a “crucial role” in the “illegal design of the funds” which were meant for the state, the reference said. Malik, the reference said, had “actively aided, abetted and assisted and acted in conspiracy” with the other respondents for the diversion of funds earmarked for the state.

Fowzia Siddiqui meets sister Aafia Siddiqui TEXAS

STAFF REPORT

Incarcerated Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui had the second reunion in 20 years with her sister Fowzia at a prison hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, on Monday. According to details, the meeting between both the sisters continued for 44 minutes in which Senator Talha Mahmood and Aafia Siddiqui’s lawyer were also present.

Dr Fowzia was scheduled to meet Aafia Siddiqui on December 2 and 3 but she was denied as the authorities claimed to have ‘lost’ the key of the prison. In a video statement, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui said she reached the jail but could not meet Aafia Siddiqui as the staff ‘misplaced’ the prison key.

It is to be noted that Fowzia Siddiqui met her sister in May, earlier this year, for the first time after 20 years of imprisonment in US. In 2003, Siddiqui was wanted by the FBI for questioning for possible ties to al Qaeda and was detained by Pakistani authorities, according to US media reports at the time.

US officials alleged that when the Afghan police captured Siddiqui in July 2008, she was carrying two pounds (900 grams) of sodium cyanide, which releases a highly toxic gas, notes that referred to a mass casualty attack, and a list of US landmarks.

MQM advocates for electoral integrity, raises concerns with ECP over constituencies and level playing field ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

A delegation of the Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) met with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Monday to express concerns over the delimitation of constituencies and the level playing field for the upcoming general elections.

The MQM delegation, led by Farooq Sattar, Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Javed Hanif, and Abdul Hafeez, raised objections to the way constituencies have been drawn in Sindh province, alleging that the process has been unfair and has benefited the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

MQM leaders also expressed concern about the role of a caretaker government in Sindh, saying that this has created an uneven playing field for all parties contesting the elections. They called on the Election Commission to take steps to ensure that the elections are free and fair.

CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja assured the MQM delegation that the Election Commission is committed to holding fair and transparent elections. He said that the commission will address all concerns raised by the MQM and other parties.

The MQM’s concerns come amid growing tension between the party and the PPP in Sindh. The two parties have been at odds

over a number of issues, including the delimitation of constituencies and the role of the caretaker government.

The MQM is a major political force in Sindh and its concerns could have a significant impact on the outcome of the upcoming elections. The party’s leaders have warned that if the elections are not fair and transparent, there could be unrest in the province.

The Election Commission has a difficult task ahead of it in ensuring that the upcoming elections are free and fair. It will need to address the concerns of all parties and ensure that the electoral process is transparent and accountable.

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk