Issuu

Monday, 5 April, 2021 I 21 Shaban, 1442 I Rs 40.00 I Vol XI No 277 I 48 Pages I Islamabad Edition

Imran warns of tougher restrIctIons If health guIdelInes’ floutIng contInues g

PM STReSSeS COlleCTIve eFFORTS TO STAMP OuT CORRuPTION ISLAMABAD

staff report

RIMe Minister Imran khan on Sunday urged the nation to strictly observe the health guidelines to protect themselves against the coronavirus as he seeks to change the course of a third wave of infections that risk overwhelming hospitals. “I urge you all to wear face masks, and I appeal you to follow the SOPs [standard operating procedures] for your sake and for the sake of Pakistan,” Imran said while answering the public’s questions via telephone, in a second such session since assuming office in August 2018. This was the prime minister’s first public appearance since recovering from Covid-19 which he and his spouse Bushra Bibi contracted last month. he said that it was “Allah Almighty’s blessing [on Pakistan] that he protected us from the first two waves of the deadly wave of coronavirus”. In the West, despite vaccinating their people, european countries were imposing general lockdowns, he observed.

Imran mentioned the impact of the third wave in neighbouring countries — particularly India and Bangladesh — and said: “Wearing a mask, or face covering, is the cheapest and most important weapon in the fight against coronavirus.” “Wear it whenever you are sharing a confined indoor space with people […] in buses […] everywhere.” “During the first two waves of the pandemic, Allah has been kind to the people of Pakistan […] and Pakistan escaped the negative impacts [of the pandemic], but now the people have become complacent [about protective measures], he said, expressing his worry that it could undo that good fortune. “People are roaming around [without observing guidelines] without any fear. The more this [disease] spreads, the more burden it would put on our healthcare system,” he said. The prime minister who last week ruled out a blanket lockdown reiterated his commitment and said that his government was implementing targeted restrictions. “[But if the situation worsens] we will be forced to take the tough steps,” he warned.

ReGReTS hOW CORRuPT eleMeNTS ARe TReATeD WITh ReSPeCT IN PAkISTAN should extend full support to make the fight against the menace a success. The premier said that a nation could fight corruption only through collective efforts. “Imran khan cannot fight it alone, the society carries on this fight and the judiciary fights it. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB), which is completely independent, can frame cases,” he added.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 05

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus in Pakistan in February last, Imran has sought to avoid a large quaratine, gambling that if he could steer the nation out of the pandemic without locking the country down, he would give the economy a chance to recover from a deep slump. Citing data, he said that the poor were the most affected people globally, and some 150 million people are expected to have slipped below the

poverty line. Imran said that it was his desire to protect the poor people of society at all costs and added he wanted the public to adopt protective measures. “We can’t predict how long will this latest surge last,” he said and added it was, therefore, paramount that people strictly adhere to the guidelines. Speaking about corruption, he stressed that as it had eaten away economies of the poor countries like Pakistan, the society as a cohesive whole

ATC judge killed along with wife, children in Swabi attack g

PM CONDeMNS ATTACk, SAyS PeRPeTRATORS WIll Be APPReheNDeD AND DeAlT WITh Full SeveRITy OF lAW ISLAMABAD staff report

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) judge, Aftab Afridi, was killed along with his wife and children on Sunday after unidentified men opened fire on his vehicle in Swabi district of khyber Pakhtunkhwa (kP). According to police, the vehicle of the ATC judge was targeted by unidentified men near Ambar interchange in Swabi, which led to the death of the judge, his wife, grandson and daughter-in-law, who were travelling from Peshawar to Islamabad via Swabi. “Two security guards in the judge’s convoy also sustained wounds in the attack,” they said. The bodies and the injured were shifted to a nearby hospital for medico-legal formalities and treatment, respectively. The security forces and police cordoned off the area and started collecting evidence from

the scene for forensic analysis. District Police Officer (DPO) Mohammad Shoaib, while speaking to a local news outlet, said that police teams reached the site and started investigations into the attack. Moreover, it emerged that kP Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Sanaullah Abbasi also reached

the site. The DPO reported that the son of the slain judge, along with other relatives, reached Swabi, adding that the first information report (FIR) would be filed after they have given their statements. DOP Shoaib further said that the family believes the attack was tar-

geted, citing personal enimity as the reason behind the assualt. Meanwhlie, Prime Minister Imran khan, while reacting to the incident, said on Twitter: “Strongly condemn the murder of ATC judge Aftab Afridi, his wife & 2 children at Anbar Interchange, Swabi. The perpetrators of this gruesome act will be apprehended & dealt with full severity of the law.” kP Chief Minister Mahmood khan also took to Twitter to “strongly condemn the brutal killing of [the] ATC Swat Judge” and expressed his condolences with the grieving family. Similarly, MNA and leader of PashtunTahafuz Movement (PTM) Moshin Dawar said: “heartfelt condolences to the family of ATC judge Aftab Afridi. Demand immediate and fair investigation of these brutal killings. May Aftab Afridi, his wife, grandson and daughter in law rest in peace. Pakhtunkhwa continues to suffer as terrorism continues to rise again.”

SBP to implement policies benefiting Pakistan’s economy: Reza Baqir ISLAMABAD app

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Dr Reza Baqir on Sunday said that SBP would implement those policies benefiting economy of Pakistan. Monitory policy adopted by SBP is supporting the economy of Pakistan, he said in an interview with a private television channel. Commenting on approaching International Monitoring Fund (IMF), he said: “We had to seek support of IMF because of weak economic condition.” During Covid-19 pandemic, he said the government had to lift loan

from IMF amounting to Rs250 billion. Appreciating the steps taken by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government to avert coronavirus pandemic, he said that the SBP and the ruling party had successfully managed to cope the difficulties arisen due to spreading virus that played havoc around the world. In reply to a question about policy rate, he said that the banks have implemented the policy rate that stood at 13 per cent. To another question about SBP’s working in future, he said that the banking system as autonomous body would have better results.

Covid-19 ICU figures at all-time high, says minister STORY ON PAGE 03

NCOC bans interprovincial transport for two weeks due to rising Covid cases

STORY ON BACK PAGE

coronavIrus In

PakIstan

CONFIRMED CASES:

687,908 LAST UPDATED AT 8:26 AM ON APRIL 4, 2021

DAY'S DEATH TOLL:

NEW CASES:

5,020

RECOVERED:

DEATHS:

613,058 14,778 SINDH:

PUNJAB:

266,378

231,073

KP:

BALOCHISTAN:

91,439

19,734

AJK/GB:

ISLAMABAD:

13,321/5,052 in today’s issue

60,911

attention Some readers have complained that they are not getting the magazine with their newspaper copy. Please call or WhatsApp us at the following number to register a complaint. Contact: 0307-7338168 irfan.farooq@pakistantoday.com.pk

Monday, 5 April, 2021

ISLAMABAD

Monday, 5 April, 2021

ISLAMABAD

NEWS

COviD-19 iCU fiGUreS aT all TiMe-hiGh, SayS MiNiSTer

News Desk

HE number of people treated in intensive care units (ICUs) across the country for coronavirus reached an all-time high, at 3,568, Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar said on Sunday. The development came as the government portal reported 5,020 new infections of the novel coronavirus after conducting 55,605 tests, receiving back a positivity rate of 9.02 per cent. “The need for strong enforcement of sop’s [standard operating procedures] is vital. Please take precautions and cooperate with administration in their enforcement efforts,” Asad said in a tweet. The country has recorded 14,778 deaths and 687,908 infections since the pandemic began. Around two-thirds of ventilators and 80 per cent of oxygenated beds are occupied in hospitals in major cities, according to

officials. As the number of cases soars, the federal government has imposed a ban on public gatherings, sports events, and wedding ceremonies. Emergency wards of hospitals in Lahore and Islamabad have been filled to capacity with coronavirus patients, according to health workers. “We are increasing the capacity of our hospitals […] but no matter how much we increase capacity, if cases continue to rise as they are currently, it will create pressure that will not be easy for our hospitals to handle,” Minister of State for Health Dr Faisal Sultan said last week during a visit to major hospitals in Islamabad. Several neighborhoods in both cities have been placed under strict lockdowns. Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday ruled out a general lockdown while acknowledging the country was going through a third wave of the pandemic.

Sindh suspends in-person classes for two weeks KARACHI: The Sindh government on Sunday announced to suspend physical classes from grade one to eight in all public and private schools for 15 days starting April 6. In a tweet, Education Minister Saeed Ghani said, however, that schools would be able to continue delivering online classes or keep the students engaged through homework and other means. Soon after the announcement, he also tweeted a notification issued by the provincial school education and literacy department, confirming the same. In a related development, Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mahmood announced that a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) will be held on Tuesday to decide on the reopening of educational institutions. Last month, the government had closed down all educational institutions in several major cities and Islamabad initially for two weeks but later extended until April 11 after a surge in Covid-19 cases there. “Education and Health Ministers will meet at the NCOC Tuesday to decide whether to open or further close educational institutions,” the minister said in a tweet. At the time, Shafqat had said that board examinations would take place according to their timetable as giving students the “baseline” grade was no longer an option. “The exam situation will also be discussed,” he said on Sunday. “Whatever is decided will be a collective decision of the country’s health and education authorities & NCOC.” In addition to closing schools, the authorities had also withdrawn an earlier decision to lift all restrictions on gatherings in cinemas, indoor weddings, indoor dining, and public places. He added that coronavirus infections have been on the rise this month, prompting the authorities to reinstate the restrictions, Dr Faisal Sultan, special assistant to the prime minister on health, said at the time. The country reported 5,020 new coronavirus cases and 81 deaths on Sunday, which took the tally to 687,908 and the death toll to 14,778. The country is facing a surge in coronavirus disease cases, which the government has said is worse than last year’s outbreak when a nationwide lockdown was imposed. The government launched a Covid-19 vaccination for the general public on March 10, starting with older people. The drive began with a focus on the oldest people in the community, generally over the age of 80. “We will work our way down in coming days,” Dr Sultan had told Reuters. Pakistan has not secured any supplies from vaccine manufacturers and is largely depending on the GAVI/WHO COVAX initiative for developing nations and donations from old friend China. STaff RePoRT

“We have to adopt a balanced policy where the spread of the virus can be prevented and where the poor man and the country’s economy are least affected,” he told a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC). The government has opted for “smart lockdowns” — short-term, targeted restrictions imposed often at neighbourhood level — to try to tame the disease while keeping the economy afloat. While federal and provincial governments have announced restrictions on gatherings, public transportation, and mask mandates, the measures have largely not been enforced. The prime minister said he would direct the government to reinforce the mask mandates. VACCINATION CAMPAIGN: Some 800,000 doses of vaccine have been administered across the country so far, all of them Sinopharm donated by China, Minister

of State for National Health Services (NHS) Dr Sultan said on last Wednesday. He confirmed that half of another million doses bought from Sinopharm had arrived on Thursday. The government is scrambling to get more vaccine as it awaits WHO/COVAX/GAVI allocations of AstraZeneca’s vaccine, which have been delayed. The authorities are planning to acquire enough of a concentrated form of the Chinese CanSino Biologics vaccine next month to locally produce 3 million doses. “We are speeding up this process and want to take it to the next stage,” Dr Sultan said. The government has allowed the private sector to import and sell vaccines but a legal dispute between the importer and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) over the price has delayed that mechanism. VACCINE JABS IMPORTED BY

Christians celebrate Easter amid lingering Covid-19 woes

to stop the spread of Covid-19, Bishop Marshall said that the pandemic requires a whole-of society approach to prevent the transmission of the virus. “One of the ways of being kind is to practice social distancing and following the government’s SOPs strictly so that we can prevent infecting other people. Only precaution will help us in stopping the spread of this virus and returning normalcy to our lives,” said the bishop, who is also the president of the National Council of Churches in Pakistan. Commending the government for allowing church services and providing security cover, Bishop Marshall said that the Christian community acknowledged the government’s efforts for protection of its non-Muslim citizens. He assured the government of the church leadership’s full support in ensuring interfaith harmony and national cohesion. “We also assure the government of our full support in this time of hardship and look forward to working with it to address

the socioeconomic difficulties being faced by our people due to the pandemic,” he said. PM, MINISTERS FELICITATE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY: Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a tweet, wished all Christian citizens a happy Easter. “Wishing all our Christian citizens a happy Easter,” he wrote. Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood also took to Twitter on the occasion. “To all my Christian friends. Happy Easter,” he wrote. “May this day bring great joy to you and your families,” he added. Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi also felicitated Christian community of world, especially Pakistan. In a statement, the foreign minister said that the Christian community living in Pakistan has rendered sacrifices for the country. He said that the protection of rights of minorities was one of the top priorities of the government incumbent government. He passed his best wishes to the Christian community on Easter.

CPEC projects put on fast track in second phase, says Asad Umar kARACHI Mian abRaR

Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar on Sunday said that the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) were progressing fast during the tenure of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. The way government handled the pandemic situation and made efforts to contain the spread of pandemic Covid-19, similarly, the government would continue working day and night for the success of CPEC, he said while addressing the reception ceremony of the first consignment, carrying equipment and machinery for Century Steel at Karachi Port, for setting up of a steel mill in Rashakai Special Economic Zone. The minister termed the occasion as another manifestation of exceptional relation between Pakistan and China. Asad said that CPEC was now entering the most important second phase. The projects were now not limited to infrastructure only, he added. He also said that CRBC, a Chinese firm had entered into an agreement with Pakistan under CPEC to promote foreign investments for development and marketing in Rashakai SEZ.

TTP terrorist killed North Waziristan News Desk Security forces on Sunday killed active Tehreek-eTaliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist Zahidud Din during an “Area Sanitisation Operation” in Dewagar, North Waziristan, said Inter-Services Public Relations in a statement. “Security forces conducted Area Sanitisation Operation in Dewagar, North Waziristan, on the reported presence of terrorists,” the ISPR added. During an intense exchange of fire, one terrorist named Zahidud Din resident of Dewagar, North Waziristan was killed. Terrorist, Zahidud Din was an active member of TTP in the Dewagar and Kharseen areas, said the ISPR, adding that the TTP terrorist remained actively involved in target killings, terrorist activities against security forces, extortion and planting IEDs.

LAHORe STaff RePoRT

The Christian community across Pakistan, including Lahore, attended Easter services in churches amid strict observance of the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs), as the third wave of the deadly virus continues to wreak havoc in the country. The total number of Covid-19 active cases has risen to 60,072, while the total number of deaths, with the fresh count of 81 fatalities, have risen to 14,778. Large gatherings were witnessed in churches in which bishops and pastors delivered special sermons focusing on the most important event in Christian faith – the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Special prayers were also offered for peace, progress, prosperity and solidarity of Pakistan and relief from the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has caused mayhem in countries across the world. In his sermon to the city’s largest Easter congregation at the Central Cathedral of Praying Hands here, Bishop of Raiwind Diocese Dr Azad Marshall said that Easter is the feast of victory over sin and death. “Resurrection assures us that life in Jesus Christ overcomes death and his truth overcomes lies and his gift of reconciliation that flows from his risen life overcomes hatred and oppression in this world. may his risen life and continual presence strengthen us in bonds of love and unity,” said the bishop. Urging the masses to adhere to the SOPs issued by the government

PRIVATE SECTOR AVAILABLE: Separately, during an interview with a private news channel on Sunday, Asad said that 50,000 coronavirus vaccine doses imported by private sector are available in Pakistan. It was the responsibility of the provincial governments to take care of the people’s health and ensure the availability of coronavirus vaccine in their respective jurisdiction, he said. A shipment of 40,00,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine was arriving in Pakistan by the end of April, he disclosed. In reply to a question, he said that there are reports that Sindh government had already given orders for the purchase of vaccine. As far as responsibilities of the federal government were concerned, he said that the Centre was fulfilling its responsibilities with utmost care. The NCOC chief further stated that some 25,00,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine have already arrived in Pakistan.

He further said that work for the provision of basic necessities, including electricity and others at Rashakai SEZ, was underway at a fast pace. The minister said Century Steel, a Chinese firm with the investment of $240 million, would set up a steel mill in Rashakai SEZ which would produce about 1.5 million tons of steel. The firm would also employ over 600 Pakistanis during the construction phase while in the second phase over 1,000 people would be provided jobs, he added. Asad said that the bilateral relation of Pakistan and China was not new, whenever Pakistan needed a friend China was there. The federal minister lauded the efforts of Chairman CPEC Authority Lt Gen (r) Asim Saleem Bajwa. Chinese Consul General in Karachi Li Bijian, speaking on the occasion, said that due to the concerted efforts of the government of Pakistan, the economy of the country was

strengthening and gaining momentum despite the negative effect of the pandemic, especially the construction sector had been witnessing faster growth and the demand for steel had increased. Because of the brilliant efforts from both sides China and Pakistan, the first phase of the CPEC had completed, he said. Li Bijian said: “We are quite confident to attract more and more investments in Rashakai SEZ”. The consul general thanked the federal government particularly CPEC Authority chairman for his support and efforts. He that it was an honor for him to witness the reception of the first consignment carrying equipment and machinery for Century Steel was only a beginning. On the occasion, CPEC Authority Chairman Lt Gen (r) Bajwa, representatives of Century Steel, officers of KPT, and others were present.

Oxygen outage claims two lives at DG Khan hospital DG kHAN TLTP

At least two patients on Sunday died at a Dera Ghazi (DG) Khan hospital after oxygen supply in the health facility witnessed an abrupt cut. The incident occurred at the DHQ Teaching Hospital in DG Khan, leading to the death of two patients receiving treatment at the health facility. Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar took notice of the incident and sought a complete report from the commissioner DG Khan. The chief minister conveyed his condolence to the aggrieved families and said that it was an unfortunate incident and any negligence found during the probe would not be spared. “Those responsible will be identified and legal action will be taken against them,” Buzdar said. This is not the first time that the incident involving oxygen outage has occurred in the country, leading to the death of undertreatment patients. In December 2020, at least six Covid-19 patients died allegedly due to a shortage of oxygen at Peshawar’s Khyber Teaching Hospital. According to a spokesperson for the hospital, five of the patients were under treatment at the health facility’s coronavirus ward while one was in the intensive care unit. He added the hospital gets its oxygen supply from Rawalpindi which did not reach on time, as a result of which the critically ill patients died. Confirming the news, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Health Minister Taimur Khan Jhagra tweeted: “There was an incident at KTH last night involving a shortage of oxygen supply.”

Maj Gen Saqib promoted to rank of lieutenant general RAwALPINDI STaff RePoRT

Major General Saqib Mehmood Malik has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant general, said the InterServices Public Relations (ISPR) on Sunday. According to the ISPR, Lt Gen Malik has been appointed as the chief of logistics staff, Pakistan Army. Earlier on November 5, six major generals of the Pakistan Army were promoted to the rank of lieutenant general, a statement issued by the ISPR Director General Major General Babar Iftikhar had said. According to the spokesperson for the military’s media wing, the approval for promotions was given in a promotion board meeting held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, presided over by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Those promoted included former ISPR DG Major General Asif Ghafoor, Major General Akhtar Nawaz, Major General Sardar Hassan Azhar Hayat, Major General Salman Fayyaz Ghani, Major General Sarfraz Ali and Major General Muhammad Ali, the incumbent ISPR DG stated in a tweet.

monday, 5 April, 2021

islAmAbAd

news

SugAr ConTinuES To bE Sold AT ExorbiTAnT rATES dESPiTE PriCE Fixing LAHORE

SHAHAB OMER

UGAR is being sold at exorbitant rates throughout the provincial capital despite its price being fixed while the district administration has claimed that action is being taken against those involved in this illegal practice. The district administration had fixed the retail price of sugar at Rs85 per kg on March 2, which was strongly objected to by sugar distributors and millers.

Zamurd Tariq, a resident of Akbari Mandi, said that he got sugar for Rs95 per kg from his local market. “The government has announced that the price of sugar has been fixed but its price in the retail market is still between Rs95 per kg and Rs100 per kg. When any shopkeeper is asked about high prices of sugar, they flatly refuse to sell it to us,” he said. However, Rehan Siddiqui, a retailer in Lahore, explained how he could not reduce the price of sugar as it was expensive when

Faisal lauds Punjab for vaccination arrangements at Expo Centre LAHORE STAFF REPORT

Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan has appreciated the Punjab government for excellent arrangements of vaccination at the Expo Centre. Dr Faisal visited Expo Centre on Sunday to get the second dose of the vaccine administered to his parents. He monitored the overall vaccination process and took feedback from different people visiting the centre. Dr Faisal said, “I am greatly relieved to see such excellent arrangements at the Expo Centre and I greatly appreciate the government of Punjab and the health department for making such excellent arrangements for the elderly citizens.” The people visiting Expo Centre expressed satisfaction over the arrangements. Health facilities are being improved further across the country for Covid-19 patients including Punjab. They lauded Punjab Minister for Health Dr Yasmin Rashid for remaining active against the pandemic. “We greatly appreciate and acknowledge her services during the coronavirus pandemic,” they said. A senior citizen said the credit of best arrangements goes to Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar. He said that he especially prayed for Dr Faisal and Dr Yasmin for facilitating elderly citizens. Secretary Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department Sarah Aslam and Director General Rescue 1122 Dr Rizwan Naseer were also present on the occasion.

Punjab governor announces scholarships for erstwhile FATA students LAHORE STAFF REPORT

Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar on Sunday announced 1,000 scholarships for the students of erstwhile FATA after he met the protesters along with Senate Deputy Chairman Mirza Muhammad Afridi. “We have accepted all demands of the protesting students,” the government said while meeting the protesters and said that they were ready to bear the expense of the former FATA’s students. He lauded the deputy chairman Senate, who remained in Lahore to address the issues faced by the students of his constituency. “The students must be proud of how the deputy chairman strived for their demands,” he said. Sarwar said that students from erstwhile FATA and Balochistan are the future of the country and the government is committed to bringing people from these areas to prominent positions. “Both chairman and deputy chairman in Senate hail from these areas,” he said. He lauded the chief ministers of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) who have agreed to assist the students and provide scholarships to them under the Ehsaas programme. The KP government will give free education to 4,000 children from these areas, he said adding that the students from erstwhile FATA will be able to get admissions to the Islamia University while they would also not be expelled from the Punjab varasities’ hostels.

he bought it. “Before fixing the price of sugar, it was necessary to consider that the small shopkeeper would incur a huge loss. I bought sugar from the wholesale market at a rate of more than Rs90 per kg. Now when I have 100 kg of sugar, how can I sell it at Rs85 per kg if it is available at my shop? I am a small shopkeeper and selling such a large quantity at a low price will cost me more,” Siddiqui said. On the other hand, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Mudassar Riaz said that the

district administration was active against those who were selling sugar at higher prices. “Our Raiwind Assistant Commissioner Adnan Rasheed had visited Metro Cash & Carry Store and sugar was being sold there at Rs96 per kg due to which the store manager was arrested and the store was sealed. Similarly, City Assistant Commissioner Faizan Ahmed, while checking sugar prices in Data Darbar area, arrested 12 people. The arrested persons were sent to Data Darbar police station. In addition, 11 people

No trade with India till restoration of Kashmir’s status: Qureshi MULTAN STAFF REPORT

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that there will be no trade with India till the restoration of special autonomous status of Kashmir. The Indian government revoked it on August 5, 2019 by repealing Articles 370 and 35A of its constitution. Qureshi, while speaking to the media in Multan, said that his government has a clear stance that India should step forward to resolve the issues. The foreign minister said that Pakistan has never refused to engage with India to resolve all issues in the region. About Afghanistan, he said that the international community was appreciating Pakistan’s role for sustainable peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan would keep facilitating the peace process in Afghanistan, he said.

FOREIGN MINISTER SAYS PAKISTAN WILL KEEP FACILITATING THE PEACE PROCESS IN AFGHANISTAN Qureshi’s comments come two days after the federal government decided not to open trade channels with India until the pre-August 5, 2019 status of Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) is restored. Chairing a special meeting on economic diplomacy, Prime Minister Imran Khan had said that relations with India could not be normalised without giving the Kashmiri people the due right of selfdetermination. “We will not trade with India till India restores the pre-August 5, 2019 status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Our principled position is that there will be no trade with India without resolving the Kashmir issue,” the

prime minister had said. “We will not move forward unless India reconsiders its wrongdoings. The decisions of the Economic Coordination Committee [ECC] are submitted to the cabinet for ratification and final approval. This should have not been shared with media prematurely,” a source quoted the prime minister as saying. The meeting was given briefings by Minister for Foreign Affairs Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Finance Hammad Azhar and other officials on the merits and demerits of opening trade channels with India. The meeting had discussed economic policy and resumption of relations with

were arrested in Sanda Islampura area of Lahore while taking action against those selling expensive sugar,” he said. “Strict crackdown against sugar prices and hoarding will continue and the price of sugar will never be compromised,” DC concluded.

other countries, including India. The meeting had also discussed ambiguity over the approval of a summary on cotton and sugar imports from India. Sources had said that the prime minister was unhappy over the way the decisions of the ECC were shared with media without approval by the apex body, including the Foreign Ministry and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. According to the source, the prevailing rules of the government, various proposals are considered in the ECC. However, the way the ECC’s proposals were shared with media without the approval of the federal cabinet was inappropriate, the source had added. The source had also said that alternative sources of imports should be explored immediately to facilitate various sectors especially imports of sugar and cotton yarn. On the occasion, Finance Minister Hammad had said that the final decision of any policy is taken by the cabinet but when a policy is formulated, it is decided by the ECC. The federal minister had further said that there are alternative options for sugar and cotton imports. Prime Minister Imran was informed only about the economic aspect but there was no detailed discussion with the PM regarding trade.

New mobile kitchens to expand meals-on-wheels initiative to more cities ISLAMABAD APP

The focal person for the government’s shelter home initiative, Naseemur Rehman, has said 12 more mobile kitchens would start functioning in a fortnight under the Koi Bhuka Na Soye (meals-on-wheels) programme to provide cooked meal twice a day to the poor and labourers in different cities. He said that two mobile kitchens were currently extending their services for the poor and labour community of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. With the additional 12 kitchens, the programme would now have an expanded outreach in other major cities. Four new mobile kitchens had already been purchased and the procurement of eight was in process, the focal person told APP in an exclusive interview. Naseem said that he along with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on

Social Protection Dr Sania Nishtar and Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Division secretary had visited the Pakistan Baitul Mal (PBM) headquarters to review the progress about the new kitchens. Dr Nishtar herself examined the trucks and gave instruction to the PBM teams to ensure deployment of the meals-on-wheels before the start of Ramzan, he added. He said that the programme was re-

cently launched by Prime Minister Imran Khan under which two Ehsaas food trucks were serving free quality cooked food at various points across Rawalpindi and Islamabad, including hospitals, bus stations, slums and other public places with utmost dignity. The two trucks were feeding two meals to around 2,000 people daily, targeting those who could not reach the

Panahgahs for food, he added. The focal person said that the procurement of more than 12 meals on wheels would help reach other areas having a poor population. Naseem said that the programme was meant to supplement the services, being provided by the static shelter homes also known as shelter homes. It had been designed in a public-private partnership mode whereby the PBM would be responsible for the operations of food trucks and Saylani Welfare Trust would be responsible for the provision of meals, he added. Explaining the mobile kitchens, he said that under the initiative, big trucks were being used to serve fresh and hygienic meals to the poor and daily wage earners in those areas where the shelter homes were not present. He also said that the trucks were fully equipped with safe cooking appliances to prepare nutritious and quality healthy foods. It has the capacity to serve cooked food to 500 people twice a day, he added.

COVAX programme faces five challenges NEWS DESK The aim of the UN-backed COVAX scheme is to get two billion vaccine doses into the arms of around a quarter of the population of poorer countries by the end of 2021; however, some main challenges need to be overcome if this historic global effort is to be achieved. Here are five things to know about the challenges facing COVAX, and how they can be overcome. First is export controls. Early on in the pandemic, UNICEF built up a stockpile of half a billion syringes in warehouses outside the countries producing them. Its foresight paid off: countries put export controls on syringes, prices spiked, and supplies were limited. Several countries also placed export controls on vaccines, prompting WHO to warn against “vaccine nationalism”, which encourages hoarding, and has the effect of

pushing prices up and ultimately prolonging the pandemic, the restrictions needed to contain it, and human and economic suffering. Second, getting vaccines to those who need it is not easy. Whilst all of the countries that are part of COVAX have the infrastructure needed to get pallets of vaccines off cargo planes and into refrigerated warehouses, the next steps can be more complicated. “Ghana, the first country to receive COVAX doses, has had a good record of distributing doses”, says Gian Gandhi, UNICEF’s global COVAX coordinator, “but other countries, such as those in Francophone West Africa, have found it difficult to muster the resources needed to divide up doses and distribute them throughout their territory to the towns and villages where they’re needed. This means that, in many poorer countries, most doses are being distributed in large urban centres”.

Third, more funding is needed to help rollout in the poorest countries. One way to speed up the vaccine rollout, and the delivery from urban warehouses to remote areas is, quite simply, cash. UNICEF estimates that an additional $2 billion is needed to help the poorest 92 countries to pay for essentials such as fridges, health worker training, expenses for vaccinators, and fuel for the refrigerated delivery trucks, and is calling on donors to make $510m of this available immediately as part of a humanitarian appeal to address urgent needs. Fourth, richer countries should share. COVAX is finding itself in competition with individual countries doing direct deals with pharmaceutical companies, putting extra pressure on the available supply of Covid-19 vaccines. At the same time, richer countries may find themselves with an over-supply of doses. “We’re calling on these countries to

share their excess doses, and engage with COVAX and UNICEF as soon as possible”, says Gandhi, “because it will take some legal, administrative and operational gymnastics to get them to where they’re needed. Unfortunately, we’re not currently seeing too many high-income countries willing to share”. Fifth is vaccine hesitancy that has been a continued cause for concern. Despite the overwhelming evidence that vaccination saves lives, vaccine hesitancy, which exists in every country, is still a problem that needs to be constantly addressed. This phenomenon is partly driven by misinformation surrounding all aspects of Covid-19, which was a concern even before a global health emergency was declared and, in May, the UN launched the Verified campaign, which fights lies and distorted messages, with trusted, accurate information surrounding the crisis.

Monday, 5 April, 2021

ISLAMABAD

NEWS

NCoC plaN advoCatEs soCial distaNCiNg, prECautioNs duriNg raMzaN iSLamaBad

pti Mpa resigns over unaddressed complaints Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Kareem Gabool resigned from the Sindh Assembly on Sunday, reportedly due to unaddressed complaints from the party’s district leadership. Referring to his PS-100 constituency (NA242), the MPA asserted that MNA Saifur Rehman always had ignored him and the people of his constituency repeatedly. “He always did whatever he wanted for the development work of the people,” Gobaal said in the resignation letter addressed to the leader of the opposition of the Sindh Assembly. “I, therefore, obey the party policies. Several times, I recorded my statement with my parliamentary party. I personally, [a] lot of times, informed Governor Sindh Imran Ismail, Karachi President Khurram Sher Zaman, GS Karachi Saeed Afridi and Parliamentary leader Bilal Ghaffar.” He maintained that “nobody has taken any action on my statement at all” and expressed that he would tender his resignation “for the benefit of the nation and their request”. last month, prior to the Senate elections, Karim Bux Gabol had said that he would not vote for PTI because tickets were awarded “in exchange of money”. In a video message, Karim Bux Gabol — who was elected from PS-100 Karachi east-II in the 2018 general elections — had claimed that his party had given Senate tickets to candidates in exchange for money, adding that the Constitution of the country allows him to vote for any candidate. “I am a PTI worker and will remain with the party, but cannot vote for its candidates in the Senate elections because the party has given the ticket to candidates in exchange of money,” he could be heard as saying in the video. He had added that he cannot support such candidates who have “purchased” a ticket. Criticising his own party for failing to deliver as per the people’s expectations, he had said that Sindh was being given “stepmotherly treatment” by the federal government. The video message of the PTI MPA had come at a time when the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim league-Nawaz (PMl-N) have claimed to be in touch with members of assemblies belonging to the ruling party. News desk

No plan to go abroad for treatment, says Maryam Nawaz Rejecting the perception that she wanted to go abroad for treatment, Pakistan Muslim league-Nawaz (PMlN) Vice President Maryam Nawaz on Sunday categorically said that she was not going anywhere. Taking to social networking website, Twitter, Maryam rejected as fake news the reports in local media claiming she wanted to leave the country for treatment. She blamed the government for staging a drama to send her abroad. She wrote, “Who asked them to remove my name from the no-fly list?” The PMl-N leader said that she could not even think of seeking any kind of permission from the incumbent government. News desk

stAff report

ITH the holy month of Ramzan commencing in less than two weeks, the role of national communications strategy for the coronavirus has become pivotal for containing the disease. In this view, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) issued guidelines to contain the spread of the contagious disease during Ramzan, Radio Pakistan reported. The government has urged people to keep their distance while observing their faith during the fasting month. The NCOC asked the administrations of mosques to hold Taraweeh (evening) prayers in the yards.

Mosques have also been asked not to use carpets or rugs. Prayers will be offered on the floor and if people desire, they can bring along prayer mats. The guidelines call on people to avoid congregating before and after the prayers, also saying that if there is a courtyard in the mosques, prayers will be offered there and not inside the halls. Similarly, people over the age of 50, adolescent children, and those suffering from seasonal flu, cough, etc. should avoid coming to mosques for prayers, said the authority. The NCOC further advised people to offer their prayers at homes and ordered that floors of mosques should be disinfected with chlorine solution mixed in water. “The rows of the praying individuals should be aligned so that there is a distance of six feet between them,” said the press statement.

Imran warns of tougher restrictions if health guidelines’ flouting continues continued from page 01 The prime minister said that corruption was the real issue, which had permeated in all the poor countries of world and had even shaken the economies of rich ones. He referred to the steps taken by Mahathir Mohamad to lift the Malaysian economy. PM Imran said that the powerful elite embezzled the national wealth by holding on to the powerful offices as happened in Pakistan and then resorted to money laundering as they could not hide such huge amounts in their respective countries. According to the United Nations watchdog panel report, about $1 trillion from the poor countries were being laundered to the rich countries or tax havens, he said. The report further said about 7,000 billion dollars had been stashed away in rich countries, he added. The prime minister said that the Government of Pakistan was striving to get the laundered money back. China had sent 450 ministers to jail on corruption charges and in Singapore, a minister committed suicide after he had been arrested for corruption, he added. The prime minister regretted that in Pakistan, the corrupt elements were warmly welcomed and showered with flower petals. expressing his resolve, PM Imran said, “Insha’Allah we have to win this fight – a fight for the rule of law, which is vital for the country’s survival.” He said that in the fight, all the corrupt elements had gathered on one platform to pull down Imran Khan’s government because it was not giving them any NRO (National

Reconciliation Ordinance). The prime minister said that the real issue was rule of law, which was firmly imposed by Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) in the State of Medina. “We all have to decide together to go after these corrupt elements,” he emphasized. The prime minister, to a question, replied that the government had retrieved land worth Rs450 billion from illegal occupants in Punjab alone. The government, he said, would not spare the powerful mafia, who had encroached upon its own lands and properties. The government has declared a war against them. A lahore-based clique had the backing of a political party, and even in past, the ministers and members of the parliament had gobbled the government’s precious lands in Punjab, he added. The mafia, he said, also encroached upon the properties of overseas Pakistanis. The prime minister said that change could be brought through a consecutive struggle. There were two kinds of changes, i.e., blood revolution and a change through ballot. The judiciary was completely independent as well as NAB, which were previously controlled by the then governments, he added. Citing the Broadsheet Commission report, PM Imran said Justice (r) Shaikh Azmat Saeed’s findings had divulged that the corrupt elements were protected in the scandal. “There is difference between revolution and evolution, the latter will take time,” he maintained. The prime minister said that his government had so far paid back

Rs35 trillion in debt, which the previous rulers had left behind. The prime minister said that for the first time, a change was being felt and no one could stop it from happening. The country in the past had only witnessed a twoparty system. “Now all stood on one platform, trying to get rid of Imran Khan’s government. It is a change. The powerful, who always enjoyed the privileged position, are feeling it. My government will not spare anyone,” he added. Going after such elements, he said, had never been an easy task. Almost all the developing countries had been facing the ordeal. “It is a kind of jihad we are waging. It is a jihad when you protect the feeble segments of your society,” he said. The prime minister said that in Punjab alone, it was detected that a whooping amount of Rs600 billion was circulated in the accounts of sugar bookies. He expressed his wonder that his political rivals did not talk about such changes, how the government had stabilised the country, its economy and rupee. “Something is happening as all the economic indicators are positive even in this pandemic,” he added. The changes, he said, could be felt in the automobile and construction sectors. Such changes would lift the country, even the tourism sector alone would help lift Pakistan economically, he added. For the first time in the country’s history, the current account had been in surplus for the last seven months, he further said. The prime minister said that the first year of his government was a horrible one as the country was facing an imminent default.

The NCOC said that mosques should constitute committees to ensure adherence to precautionary measures. The NCOC has also asked the people to avoid offering prayer on the roads and footpaths. It also barred citizens to hold washing (wudu) in the mosques, adding they should do it at their homes. The forum said that if the government felt the guidelines are not being implemented in letter and spirit, or the number of cases rise to dangerous levels, it can revise its policy. It further said that it will also reserve the right to change its policy for neighbourhoods severely affected by the disease. Radio Pakistan reported these guidelines have been issued as per unanimous declaration from President Arif Alvi in consultation with clerics for arrangements for Taraweeh in mosques.

Fawad says ramzan announcement will be made by ruet-e-hilal Committee Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry clarified that Ruet-e-Hilal Committee shall be the one to make the announcement of the beginning of the holy month of Ramzan, as per the laws of the country, but stressed the need to use science and technology for effective decision making. “The foundation of our future depends on science, technology and education and we must employ technological innovations for effective decision making,” the science minister said while speaking to media persons in lahore. He reiterated that the Ramzan moon will likely be sighted on April 13 and the first day of the holy month will be observed on April 14. The statements come a day after Fawad had said that the holy month of Ramzan will commence from April 14 in Pakistan, wherein the minister had tweeted that the Ramzan moon will be clearly sighted on April 13 in lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar and other cities. These statements had caused controversy within the religious circles. RHC Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad had said in a statement: “This may not be a matter of Shariah disobedience but shatters the national pride when there are different dates for commencement of Ramzan and eids in the country.” It is pertinent here to mention that RHC’s new chairperson was appointed by the federal government in December last year, replacing Mufti Muneebur Rehman. The new chairperson, in January, said that he would try his best to bring harmony in observing Ramzan and celebrating eid in the country in the years to come. Whilst speaking on the federal minister’s statement, Maulana Azad had told a local news outlet: “Minister Fawad Chaudhry sahib should have waited for the meeting of the committee. Besides, a senior officer of the science ministry is a member of the committee.” On Sunday, while clarifying his statements, Fawad had said that he had received a request from the religious affairs minister to allow the committee to oversee any and all announcements related to the advent of Islamic months such as Ramzan. While acquiescing to the demand, Fawad underscored the need to incorporate science and technology into the fabric of Pakistani society, particularly that of students. He remarked, “Imagine the quality of students we may produce if we do not even teach Darwin’s theory at schools.” “I request the provincial governments to improve their quality of education and … focus on [subjects of] science and technology.” News desk

Export all thE traitors! City Notes M A NiAzi

ell, I suppose that news that we wouldn’t be importing cotton or sugar from India must be highly satisfying. But surely that must mean that Imran Khan is not being given credit for his brilliant speech at the UN, which would have caused anyone but Narendra Modi to pull out of Kashmir. Imran is supposed to have sacked Dr Hafeez Shaikh as finance minister because he could not bring inflation under control. earlier in the month, he was so gung-ho about him that he tried to get him elected a senator, and that too from Islamabad, which should have been the safest of seats. He was replaced by Hammad Azhar,

who presented Dr Shaikh’s budgets to parliament when he was a PM’s adviser. However, it seems that it was already known that he was not up to it, for the first thing everyone heard was that Shaukat Tarin had been approached to replace Dr Shaikh, which was a bit of a reversal, because he had been replaced by Shaikh back in the day, when he had been part of Yousaf Raza Gillani’s cabinet. He had taken on the job in place of Naveed Qamar, who had been the minister, but was then moved to privatisation, and ports and shipping. later on, though, he became defence minister. like Hammad, he had also got the job on the rebound, so to speak, after Ishaq Dar left the job when the PMl-N pulled out of the national government initially formed by Gillani. Tarin had been inducted as PM’s finance adviser as if to pick up the pieces that Qamar had left behind. That time there had been some un-

pleasantness about the chairmanship of the National Finance Commission, so Tarin had to be made a minister, which meant finding him a seat in parliament. It was easier then, for a seat was duly found. This time, Tarian is nothing loth, for back in 2008, Qamar had five months to bring the Finance Ministry to its knees, while Hammad has only been trusted for a few days. Train has apparently got two conditions. First, he would like the NAB charges against him and his son to come to an end. Does he mean that Imran should do something about it? I know Babar Awan got off, as did Aleem Khan, and both have returned to the federal and Punjab cabinets respectively, but to assume that Imran had anything to do with either case is to assume that the bad old ways continue. It’s a little like the assumption that the PTI will somehow win the Daska by-elec-

cmYK

tion. Well, unless it wins, Usman Buzdar is for the chop. A loss there would probably be the straw that broke the camel’s back. There’s a terrible mood sweeping through this country, which shows a mean spirit not deserving of our national heroes. People have an unaccountable objection to rising prices, and don’t care about either who built them a cancer hospital or who won them a World Cup. There is a pettifogging spirit abroad, with people asking why the sugar mafia, the wheat mafia and the drug mafia are all getting to hang on to their ill-gotten gains. I mean, what is the point of getting into government if you can’t get someone cleared of NAB charges. Or find him a seat in parliament? Is that how the nation is supposed to treat its heroes? One of those heroes, the singer Shaukat Ali, has passed away. He was a folk artist, but it was his rendering of the

patriotic song, ‘Saathio mujahido…’ that makes one wonder about whether he ever performed for Imran’s cancer hospital, which was eponymous. No one has mentioned it, so I assume he didn’t. Anyway, SKMTH’s funds were mostly raised by Bollywood figures. Of course, when the SKMTH was being built, India had not changed the status of Kashmir, so it was still patriotic to have Bollywood stars perform. Of course, even the attempt to import sugar showed the dearth of patriotism, such as Shaukat Ali encapsulated. True patriots are in Myanmar, where its Armed Forces Day saw the most casualties so far in the protests by traitorous elements against the patriotic reaction to December’s election rigging, more than 100. So far, more than 560 people have been killed, including 40 children. Well, you can’t make an omellette without breaking eggs.

Monday, 5 April, 2021

06 COMMENT

As I saw Bhutto

Opening trade with India Poor decision-making skills on show

HE recent flip-flop over the import of sugar and cotton from India does not provide an edifying picture of how the government is being run. the decision to make the imports was made by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, only to be reversed by the full Cabinet. the ECC decision was based on the Commerce Ministry summary, which had been approved by Prime Minister Imran Khan in his capacity of Commerce Minister. the Cabinet has every right to reverse ECC decisions, but it does call into question the entire Cabinet committee mechanism. Cabinet committees are meant to reduce the burden of the Cabinet by doing the necessary spadework and formulating a recommendation about the action the Cabinet should take. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has come up with the justification that an import decision would reverse the country’s policy on Kashmir, as the ban on trade was imposed because of India’s repeal of Kashmir’s special status. We are expected to believe that Imran did not know this when approving the Commerce Ministry summary. Of course, that is unless we accept SAPM Moeed Yusuf’s argument that Imran expressed one opinion as Commerce Minister, while knowing as PM that trade was undesirable. true, a summary expresses the opinions of subordinate officials, but the official at the top is expected to read what he is signing. If Mr Khan is so rushed that he does not read summaries, he should find a full time Commerce Minister. Due diligence would have averted all this. Proper discussion would have elicited that any such decision would involve a change of policy, and either those proposing it would have convinced those opposing it, and would have given up the proposal. the recent flip-flop has led to damage to the nation’s image internationally. Pakistan’s word is not its bond. the government should make sure that there is certainty in how its decisions are perceived. Just to take this example, the decisions of all intending importers will be affected. While sugar is a consumer item, cotton was supposed to be export raw material. the government does not need the flak it is getting for having changed its decision to suit any business lobbies, being already in enough trouble over its handling of the economy.

One of Bhutto’s original supporters remembers him

Mustafa abdullah baloch

t was the late 1960s when the bipolar world was divided between capitalism and socialism. this part of the world also witnessed the wave of socialism. the downfall of Ayub and the rise of a new phenomenon in Pakistan’s politics which is still powerful as it was in the 1960s and 1970s, the charismatic giant of politics Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto who is the icon of resilience and the symbol of democracy in Pakistan, who chose to stand firm on principles and faced the dictatorship with utmost valour, and still lives in the hearts of millions even after 42 years of the darkest night in the history of Pakistan, when the most popular leader of the county was tried harshly and unjustly by Zia and later sent to gallows. One of the students in those days who later on became close aide of Shaheed Zulfkqar Ali Bhutto and minister in his government was my father Abdullah Baloch, whose memories about his leader are shared below as a tribute on his 42nd death anniversary as he saw the rise, the glory, the success and also the darkest days faced by the party and its leader. My father narrates “During the late 1960s there was an echo of one person all around, people used to talk about and discuss Bhutto everywhere from drawing rooms to cafes to public forums. As a youngster I was pulled by the charisma of Bhutto and during one hot summer day of 1968 I made up my mind and went to 70 Clifton where Ghulam Mustafa Khar received me and took me to Bhutto sahab who was sitting and having tea in his drawing room along with Hafeez Pirzada, Hayat Mohammad Sherpao and Mairaj Mohammad Khan. I introduced myself and expressed my desire to work with him in his party, which he appreciated. He told me to visit the party office and start working. the towering personality and commitment in his eyes were

Being left out Where was the High Commission?

HILE it was disappointing enough for Pakistani travellers placed on the UK’s list of countries whose citizens could not enter the country on a visa, it was also puzzling why the objections to this decision were voiced by a British opposition MP of Pakistani origin, Naz Shah, rather than normal diplomatic channels. the silence by the Pakistani High Commission indicates either that someone was sleeping on the job, or there was a considered decision to let Ms Shah do the job for it, indicating pusillanimity ill-suited to diplomats. the British action may well be difficult to justify on purely public health grounds. However, though Ms Shah said that the decision raised the suspicion that the decision was based on foreign policy, not data, Pakistan should realize that its poor vaccination rollout has made it vulnerable to such strictures. the ban last year by the UAE was also indicative that Pakistanis were viewed with more suspicion than seems entirely appropriate. Ms Shah’s letter on the subject to the UK Foreign Secretary mentioned three countries with worse infection rates not subjected to such restrictions, France, Germany and India. It is unfortunately true that all three countries have better diplomatic relations with the UK. While British interests matter, the effort put in by their diplomats counts. the element of diplomacy cannot be excluded, for Pakistan had recently banned travellers from the UK. Ironically, the UK variant, which that ban was meant to exclude, has made it to Pakistani shores. As the entire episode shows, Pakistani diplomats are unwilling to put in the effort needed. Instead, letting Ms Shah cut a figure before the Pakistani community in the UK may have saved some diplomats from conveying what might be seen as an unpleasant message. However, there is a marked difference between an official diplomatic reaction, and a letter by an opposition legislator. the entire High Commission needs to be reminded that their real job is to represent their citizens, not win any popularity contests.

In greening lies salvation sojla sahar

ALKING down the beautiful green streets of Islamabad, and looking at its mesmerizing natural beauty I realize this city is the model of what a modern city should look like. It has clusters of buildings divided into zones, laid out as a grid with a vast network of roads connecting them all together like a spider web. In between the buildings, green vegetation, soothing green belts around the avenues, are sprinkled all over the city, making it the greenest city in the country. It is no doubt a city thriving in the arms of tree-covered Margalla Hills. to analyze how valuable the peace and protection of the environment is for this country, rickshaws are also banned due to their loud noises and the streets are as clean as day. Clean environment has become a priority for Pakistan; in the past; people of the land suffered beyond measure and had to bear violence for two decades. there was a time when the word “Pakistani” was only used to build an image of a man with long hair, a beard, and abhorrence dripping from his eyes, ready to take a plethora of lives. But that’s obviously not the case. Leaving it all behind, the country is out of the dark times; it’s geared up to embrace positivity and is advocating peace among nations after achieving “peace within”. During the depressing times of covid-19, when the world stopped for days and months, this progressive country seized the opportunity to reboot a stressed economy with a ‘Green Stimulus” only, focusing on protecting nature, generating green jobs, committed to tree plantation and also sensitized its society towards the alarming global challenge of ‘climate change. Not just this, a South Asia country, having a significant strategic location has adopted the ‘green energy economy’, after analyzing the value of clean, green and pure air to breathe in. this approach surely depicts Pakistan’s decision of opting to become a

Arif Nizami Editor Managing Editor

Joint Editor

Umar Aziz Executive Editor

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

The writer tweets @MustafaBaloch_ and can also be reached at mustafarind01@gmail.com

From Echo of Bombs to Chirping of Birds

Dedicated to the legacy of the late Hameed Nizami

Yousaf Nizami Aziz-ud-Din Ahmad

quite enthralling. the doors of 70 Clifton were always open and we were free to share our views and opinions with him. the first party office of PPP in Karachi was at Sindhi Muslim Housing Society, the office was rented on the name of Mohammad Khan Ghangro as it was Yahya’s martial law and no body was willing to give us space on rent for the party office. “SZAB had an Impeccable dressing sense, even his federal and provincial ministers were given a particular dress code, white for the day and black for the evening with different collar strips of the President, Prime Minister, Senators, Ministers, MNAs and MPAs, quite similar to the Chinese dressing which was later on replaced by the Zia regime by the sherwani. He was so charismatic that many of the party leaders including me used to follow his dressing and specially his trademark Mao cap, which was a fad amongst the youth of those days. He was a great admirer of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and as an Auqaf Minister he assigned me to install the golden gate gifted by the Shah of Iran where as a mark of respect he always used to salute on entering the dargah of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. the late 1960s was the peak of socialism, the Red Book was the proud possession of every leftist in those days, and during the Hala Convention one of the young members who later on became Federal Minister was quoting the Red Book, and the leftist group of the party led by Mairaj Muhammad Khan were of the view that party should not contest elections, but SZAB shrugged off their decision and said “Don’t give me examples from the Red Book, you have read it but I have done dialogue with them, and we cannot serve the people unless we contest elections and come in power.” Bhutto was clear that the only way to serve people is democracy. On return from the convention he came back to Hyderabad and formed the parliamentary board for 1970 elections, and he nominated me as a member. He emerged as a challenger for Ayub, such that the feudals of those times used to avoid any encounter with Bhutto to avoid Ayub’s wrath. PPP was the first political party where the worker class was the epicentre of the party that pulled a student like me to 70 Clifton. “And believe me those were the tough days when Ayub’s government was struggling before the might of the rising leader, Bhutto. In 1972 when I was an MPA my house was burnt in the Karachi riots. He called me to 70 Clifton, consoled me and patted me on the shoulder, to which I said this is a very small sacrifice for the party and the cause, which resulted in a smile on his face and he responded “I expected the same from you”. He created such a party in which the leader had direct contact with his workers, there was no such party in Pakistan before that. He was very encouraging by seeing my passion in politics and asked me to regularly visit the party office. the daily expenses of the office were covered by the sales collection of Nus-

rat magazine. He was a very good listener, but if once anybody used to repeat anything he used to snub them and say “don’t repeat”. He used to encourage competition within his party to extract the best amongst all. the classic example of this was to keep an extreme leftist, Maira,j and Hafeez, son of a former CM, both poles apart, together in the Karachi chapter, it was the great leadership quality of SZAB. He believed that healthy competition was good for the party in which one tries to outmanoeuvre the other, and the ultimate beneficiary was the party. He inculcated trust and confidence in youth by inducting a young person like me in the cabinet, as I was just 28 years old at that time, also appointed me as General Secretary Karachi with Kamal Azfar as President, again poles apart. He always showed his conviction and trust in youth. “In 1976 during super flood despite being MPA from Karachi I was appointed in-charge minister for flood relief by SZAB. I tried my best and saved Sehwan and Dadu from being inundated by flood with his guidance. Later he appreciated me for my efforts in his historic speech. Once he did a rally in Lyari where he tirelessly travelled all night, went home for a while and then returned back to visit the remaining places such was his enthusiasm and commitment. He used to call labour conferences yearly because he always wanted to have a grip on the pulse of the proletariat class. “His son late Shahnawaz built a hogan (jhuggi) with a lantern hanging inside at 70 clifton where he used to take Bhutto along with him and spend some time. the love for the poor was in the blood of the Bhutto family. “Once I went to see off SZAB at Karachi airport, he asked me, “Where I will head from here?” I replied home, as I was not feeling well. He immediately took out a bottle of tablets from his pocket and told me “even though I am not well but still travelling, now you should better go to work.” He worked tirelessly and inspired all of us. He used to notice even the minute things which most people might ignore, he was very observant and particular. “It was 5 July 1977 when I was at home and learnt about the shocking news that martial law has been imposed and that our elected government has been toppled. It was a shock for all of us and a tragedy that Shahed Bhutto was tried unjustly. Instead of a session court he was tried in the High court first, which was technically wrong as the high court is the appellate court, not the trial court. the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court, Molvi Mushtaq Hussain, who was hearing Bhutto’s case was biased. Even the Supreme Court Judge, Mr Justice Nasim Hasan Shah, who gave the decision to hang Bhutto later admitted that he was trying to protect his job. All the judges who tried Bhutto were under PCO oath and their loyalty was towards Zia. Every passing year 4th April reminds me what an enormous loss it has been for the country, Shaheed Bhutto was a mentor and leader for me. I will always cherish the time spent with him, the lessons learnt from him and the pearls of wisdom that he shared with me. His words still echo in my ears, such leaders are born in centuries.”

Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

more progressive, developed and modernized nation. It has the realization of a cost of life, either human or of a tree. Pakistan has gained strength by listing its priorities and aiming to change the dimension of its economy, making it more sustainable, and its environmental policies are being recognized by the international community as well. this is a landmark step pointing towards a shift in the country’s priorities and interests. Despite these immensely positive and ecofriendly efforts, Pakistan has been a victim of negative and agenda-driven propaganda by multiple actors that was badly exposed by EU DisInfo Lab. the Brusselsbased independent NGO also unveiled the negative and groundless propaganda shockingly being sponsored by the Hindu-extremist government of India. EU DisInfo Lab has accused India of spreading fake and baseless information about Pakistan. India is continuously fueling misconceptions and minimizing chances of negotiations between the two neighbouring countries. India has been using paid local media channels and has been running ‘pro-India’ and ‘Anti-Pakistan’ campaigns for years. Nevertheless, this eye-opener report by the Brussels-based NGO proves sthe tark difference between the goals and interests of the two nations. the patience and resilience of Pakistan towards pulling off sustainable and durable peace is commendable. Financial development in Pakistan has been duly recognized globally as well. thus, Moody’s Investor Service has also upgraded Pakistan’s economy outlook from “negative” to “stable”. the country has prioritized ‘sustainable development’ over ‘gigantic corporate profits’ as it has been adopting green economy strategies. Committed to initiating a ‘green economy’ it has been protecting its nature that resultantly created jobs in the country, being called ‘green jobs’. Once captured in the shackles of terrorism and violence, the country is on the road to recovery as it has sensed the silver lining emerging around this black cloud of confusion and uncertainty, especially during the covid-19 days. Green agenda has been implemented on the project known as ‘Billion-tree tsunami’, that urges people for tree plantation. Pakistan’s incumbent government has also formed a launch pad for directional shift of the economy towards sustainable growth.

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Choosing nature-positive pathways over corporate interests the country is launching an ‘Ecosystem Restoration Fund’ which allows funding for Pakistan’s green economy, and till now it has gained funds of $180 million. the state is striving to preserve and protect 15 ecological national parks, hich will comprise five percent of the area of Gilgit-Baltistan, and they will form a nature corridor between Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Instead of advocating ‘nationalism’, the country is advocating ‘environmentalism’. the newly notified Himalaya National Park and the Nanga Parbat comprise of unique ecological areas with very rich high-altitude biodiversity as well as precious flora and fauna which include snow leopards, Himalayan brown bear, Laddakh Urial, ibex, markhor and blue sheep. Pakistan’s incumbent government has also launched a programme of ‘Billion tree Honey Initiative’ and it is also a part of its ‘Clean-Green Pakistan’ campaign. Arrangements have also been made for natural breeding of Laddakh Urial so as to enhance the population of that endangered species. Pakistan has opted for a role of a custodian and guardian of nature. Moreover, the country has also made an announcement for a “Green Euro Bond”, to shift away from coal-based pathways towards renewable energy by aiming to achieve a target of 60 percent clean energy by 2030. to get these targets, 2600MW of imported coal projects have been shelved and replaced by 3700MW of hydroelectric projects, sensing a growing appetite for green and low-carbon investments in the international markets, Pakistan has decided its direction and is aiming to create a more eco-conscious marketplace. the country is surely building back and much stronger. It has realized the contemporary needs of the world. Decades of suffering failed to break the resilience of this nation, and its struggle for a peaceful more prosperous tomorrow. Instead of hearing heartwrecking screams of fear, people of this land are getting accustomed to hearing the beautiful, calming chirp of birds, welcoming peace, prosperity and sustainability. As Marcel Proust said, “We are healed of suffering only by experiencing it to the full.” The writer can Khansojla123@gmail.com

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Monday, 5 April, 2021

COMMENT 07 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

PM’s Kashmir policy

Rights violations in Kashmir The US State Department reports on the human rights violations in the Valley

dr GhulaM Nabi fai

NCE again, the United States Department of State, 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, has reproached India on her human rights record. the country report contains graphic documentation of human rights violations being committed by the Indian military and paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir. this is a significant step towards greater international recognition of the serious abuses committed against Kashmiris at the hands of Indian army. this report may take the veil of secrecy off of India’s crimes against humanity. the country report cites various examples where the authorities intimidate and threaten the media. the report says, “Journalists working in Jammu and Kashmir continued to face barriers to free reporting through communications and movement restrictions. Criminal prosecutions were often used to gag journalists critical of the authorities, including the use of a section of the penal code that includes sedition punishable by life imprisonment. In February the Kashmir Press Club stated security agencies had routinely deployed intimidation tactics such as threats, summonses, and physical attacks on journalists in Jammu and Kashmir.” the country report in particular describes an incident when “On April 18, police in Kashmir booked photojournalist Masrat Zahra under the UAPA for indulging in “anti-national activities” on social media. In a statement, police accused Zahra of “uploading anti-national posts with criminal intention, uploading posts that glorify anti-national activities and dent the image of law enforcing agencies besides causing disaffection against the country.” Zahra maintained she was sharing archival images that had already been published in different local and international social media platforms. the investigation continued at year’s end.” “On April 10, authorities arrested pregnant student leader Safoora Zargar under the UAPA for allegedly conspiring to incite the Delhi riots. the Delhi High Court released her on June 23 after the central government did not object to her release.” the country report details many instances where the use of draconian laws has given a sense of total impunity to the Indian Army in Kashmir. It states “Under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the central government may designate a state or union territory as a “disturbed area,” authorizing security forces in the state to use deadly force to “maintain law and order” and to arrest any person “against whom reasonable suspicion exists” without in-

forming the detainee of the grounds for arrest. the law also provides security forces immunity from civilian prosecution for acts committed in regions under the AFSPA.” “the Public Safety Act (PSA), which applies only in Jammu and Kashmir, permits authorities to detain persons without charge or judicial review for up to two years without visitation from family members.” the country report underscored that “there were allegations of enforced disappearance by the Jammu and Kashmir police. Although authorities denied these charges and claimed no enforced dsappearances had occurred since 2015, the International Federation for Human Rights reported that cases of enforced disappearances continued through 2019.” “In February the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances identified seven cases under its standard procedures concerning individuals who were arrested, detained, or otherwise deprived of rights. the Working Group had not received permission to visit the country since it first submitted a request to the government in 2010.” the country report cites specific incidents where the Indian Government violated the very principles of human decency and democratic freedom against the people of Kashmir. the report states that, “In responding to demonstrations that started in July 2016, Indian security forces used excessive force that led to unlawful killings and a very high number of injuries. … One of the most dangerous weapons used against protesters during the unrest in 2016 was the pellet-firing shotgun.” the country report was very concerned about arbitrary arrests and detention. It says, “Following the central government’s August 2019 abrogation of a special constitutional provision that provided autonomous status for Jammu and Kashmir, authorities used a public safety law to detain local politicians without trial. Most detainees were released during the year. Media reports indicated those released were required to sign bonds agreeing not to engage in political activity.” the country report talks about the denial of fair public trial. It says, “In April, Mohammed Yasin Malik, leader of the pro-independence Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), was arrested and charged with murder in the death of four Air Force officials in 1990. Malik was denied the right to be physically present in court. Human rights groups in Kashmir, including the JKCCS, expressed concern regarding whether Malik was receiving a fair trial.” Political prisoners are facing many hardships. their relatives do not have free access to meet with them even on special occasions. the report says, “NGOs reported the central government held political prisoners and temporarily detained individuals in Jammu and Kashmir under the PSA. On September 15, the Ministry of Home Affairs informed parliament that 223 political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, who had been detained after August 2019, remained in detention but added “no person is under house arrest.” the country report quoted international experts and NGOs who have not been able to visit Jammu & Kashmir. the report says, “Various domestic and international human rights organizations continued to express serious concern at the use of pellet guns by security forces for crowdcontrol purposes in Jammu and Kashmir. In March the Jammu and Kashmir High Court dismissed the public interest litigation petition seeking a ban on the use of pellet guns on protesters, asserting that

police have the right to administer force in selfdefense when facing violent protests.” the country report cites many examples of torture which has been used against civilians in Jammu & Kashmir. the report says, “A May 2019 report by the JKCCS and the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons alleged that police, military, and paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir used torture against civilians and opposition over the past four decades. the report documented 432 testimonies from individuals who claimed to have been tortured. there were continued allegations of physical abuse and torture following the government’s enhanced security measures in Jammu and Kashmir after the August 2019 move to abrogate Article 370 of the constitution.” As we all know that Internet ban has been a serious problem. the report says, “the center reported the longest shutdown occurred between August 4, 2019, and March 4 in Jammu and Kashmir.” the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are basic human rights. the report says, “Jammu and Kashmir was an exception, where the state government sometimes denied permits to separatist political parties for public gatherings, and security forces reportedly occasionally detained and assaulted members of political groups engaged in peaceful protest (see section 1.g.). During periods of civil unrest in Jammu and Kashmir, authorities used the law to ban public assemblies and impose curfews.” International NGOs, including the United Nations Special Rapporteurs, have been denied entry into Kashmir. the report says, “the government continued to decline access by the United Nations to Jammu and Kashmir and limit access to the northeastern states and Maoist-controlled areas. In an August statement, UN human rights experts called on the government “to take urgent action to address the alarming human rights situation in the territory.” the UN special rapporteurs noted that since August 2019, “the human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been in free fall,” and they were “particularly concerned that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many protesters are still in detention and Internet restrictions remain in place.” the group appealed to the government “to schedule pending visits as a matter of urgency, particularly of the experts dealing with torture and disappearances.” It is well documented that the bloody occupation has resulted in massive human rights violations, particularly targeting women and children. the sanctity of women has been violated, in a gruesome and unforgiving fashion. It is our hope that the State Department Country Report will mobilize the policy makers and the members of Congress to do everything in their constitutional power to stop the killings in Kashmir. It is further our hope that the Biden Administration will look to solving the root cause of the problem – the unfulfilled promise of selfdetermination as guaranteed by successive United Nations Security Council resolutions. We believe that history is not predestined, and it is up to us to make peace its destiny in Kashmir through all of our energies, goodwill, wisdom, and compassion for the tragic afflictions of that once glorious land. Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai is the Secretary General, World Kashmir Awareness Forum, Washington, D.C. He can be reached at: 1-202607-6435 or gnfai2003@yahoo.com

tHE Kashmir Committee Wednesday passed a resolution to welcome the commitment shown by Prime Minister Imran Khan for linking the resolution of Kashmir dispute with regional peace and stability. the committee met under the chair of its Chairman Shehryar Khan Afridi and passed the resolution. the resolution acknowledged the role played by the prime minister as an ambassador for Kashmiris and extended full support to the efforts being made for resolution of Kashmir dispute. the resolution said that Kashmir is a jugular vein of Pakistan as per the vision of father of the nation Mohammad Ali Jinnah and said that Pakistan would resolve the Kashmir dispute in line with the United Nations resolutions on the dispute of Jammu and Kashmir. the resolution demanded the United Nations Human Rights Council and other international Human Rights organizations to ensure immediate release of all the political prisoners of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) especially senior leaders of Hurriyat Conference who have been put behind bars for decades without any conviction. It also called for release of Syed Shabbir Shah, Masarat Alam Bhat, Yasin Malik, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Ashraf Sehrai, Asiya Andrabi, Fehmida Sofi, Naheeda Nasreen and others who have been subjected to inhuman treatment in prisons and demanded to shift all the women prisoners of IIOJK back to Kashmiri prisons. Spokesman of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Zahid Hafeez, while briefing the members of the committee, said there was no change whatsoever in Pakistan’s position on the dispute of Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan’s position was anchored on the United Nations (UN) resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Zahid Hafeez said that Prime Minister’s statement made in Kotli, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, was consistent with Pakistan’s longstanding policy on Jammu and Kashmir dispute and Pakistan would continue its support of Kashmiris at all fora. He said the recent understanding between the Pakistani and Indian military to observe the Line of Control agreement of year 2003 was aimed at saving lives and properties of the Kashmiri people living on both sides of the LoC. “to save Kashmiri lives and to provide some comfort to Kashmiris on both sides of the LoC, it was necessary to abide by ceasefire agreement,” he said. He said the focus was on purely military understanding on military mechanisms reached about ceasefire on the LoC. He said Pakistan believes that any violation of ceasefire agreement may jeopardise regional peace and may also hurt the Kashmiris living on both sides of the LoC. “there is absolutely no change in Pakistan’s stance on resolving Kashmir dispute through dialogue and under the UN resolutions on Kashmir dispute,” he said. the chairman of the committee said the pertinent questions of Khurram Dastagir Khan would be addressed by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in next meeting. SoHAiL ALi KHAN iSLAMABAD

Perpetual protesting OUR politicians belonging to all parties do not learn any lesson from history or their mistakes. they never work to make the country strong and a harmonious state where rich and poor can lead life peacefully. Instead of working collaboratively to lay the foundations of a strong economy, they are always fighting for power claiming that they are the only ones who can take the country out of crises. they tend to imply that they were immune to human error. Every party delivers lengthy sermons glorifying themselves and blaming their opponents for all the ills. Little do they realize that they have all now had their go at power, yet they are unable to distinguish between good and bad. All parties proclaim to be the champions of democracy, but they have yet not been able to agree on an election process that would ensure a process everyone agrees to. Every time elections are held; the winners claim the process to be fair and transparent and the losers cry foul. Our politicians are so selfcentered that they would term an election flawed where they lose while claiming fair victory in constituencies they win. In 2008 the PPP was happy with results while PMLN and PtI alleged rigging. In 2013, PMLN claimed victory in a fair manner but PPP and PtI called it ROs election. PtI and PPP kept protesting and conspiring to dislodge the government. However, both PPP and PtI were perfectly fine with the same election in Sindh and KPK where they won the provincial governments. In 2018, PtI came victorious calling it a transparent process while PMLN and PPP termed it selection. this time around, PMLN, PPP, and others formed PDM to topple the government. From 2008 to date, our politicians have done little on the front of lawmaking and strengthen the country. Instead, the opposition spent most of the time protesting to topple the government and the party in power kept trying to cling on to it. this ugly game continues while the country is sinking to point of total collapse. It is ironic that our politicians fail to democratically agree on lawmaking for a fair election and still cry foul every time they lose. their infighting and constant attempts to topple the party in power has brought the country to the brink of collapse but they fail to realize the gravity of the situation continuing with their selfish ways. Raja Shafaatullah ISlamabad

Water scarcity WAtER scarcity is one of the biggest problems in Pakistan. the predictions are that the country may face acute water scarcity by 2025, and will be the most water stressed country in South Asia within two decades. Almost 30 million Pakistanis have no access to clean water. Currently, Pakistan is categorized as a water scarce country because the yearly water availability is less than 1000 cubic meters per person. there are several factors which have led to water scarcity, sudden changes in climate, wastage of water and natural calamities such as drought and floods. We have to educate our people, make them aware of this situation and its consequences. We should go for Rain Water Harvesting and build infrastructure to help with that. Many things depend on our Government, as well, for instance, they can recycle waste water and introduce new conservation technologies to make our future safe. If these measures are not taken than Pakistan will not have clean drinking water or in a worst-case scenario, Pakistan may not even have enough water to carry out basic life-activities. aRmEEn aftab SaRIyo KaRachI

Monday, 5 April, 2021

08 WORLD VIEW

The UnITed STaTeS mUST pay The UnITed naTIonS whaT IT oweS THERE ARE FEW BETTER WAYS FOR THE COUNTRY TO RECLAIM ITS CREDIBILITY AND MORAL AUTHORITY

ForEIgn polIcy

maDElEinE K alBRiGHT, joHn D nEGRoPonTE, THomas PiCKERinG

eW administrations have had to do so much so quickly to restore U.S. leadership on the world stage. in its first 60 days, the Biden administration has rejoined the World Health Organization and the paris climate agreement, lifted the ban on travelers from some Muslim-majority countries, reestablished funding for programs that support the health of women and girls around the world, and extended a treaty on nuclear stability with Russia. This month, the United States served as president of United nations Security Council, and on Monday, U.S. Secretary of State antony Blinken is chairing a meeting of the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Syria. after four long and painful years, the United States is starting to look like the america its allies recognize. There remains, however, a critical part of the U.S. foreign-policy equation left unaddressed: paying the dues the country owes to the U.n. peacekeeping budget. These dues have been accruing for four years and total more than $1 billion. We have been here before. in 1999, the United States’ vote at the U.n. general assembly was threatened because of lack of payment. at the time, the United nations was working closely with the United States in kosovo and throughout africa, areas critical to U.S. foreign-policy objectives. Meanwhile, U.S. credibility was on the line; it appeared hypocritical to advocate for robust multilateral action while also withholding the dues to support such activities. it made no sense, and the United States began the process of repaying the world what it owed. in 2009, even in the midst of dealing with the aftermath of the great Recession, the Obama administration agreed to quickly pay all U.S. arrears. On a bipartisan basis, Congress agreed. in 2021, the challenges facing the world have grown in size and com-

plexity. a deadly pandemic has killed more than 2.5 million people. global gDp growth dropped by an estimated 3.5 percent last year, the worst recession in nearly a century. Some estimate that 100 million people could enter extreme poverty as a result. and poverty increases the likelihood of conflict. against this backdrop of instability, China has increased its global profile. it has used its growing economic might to shape the world in its image, becoming the leading global exporter of authoritarianism. When the Trump administration downgraded U.S. engagement at the U.n., China stepped up, assuming leadership at four of 15 U.n. agencies. even the Trump administration eventually took notice, appointing a State Department envoy specifically to counter Chinese influence at the U.n. China is now among the top 10 contributors of personnel to U.n. peacekeeping and the second-biggest contributor of dues, behind the United States. China has used these facts as leverage at the U.n. Security Council. in 2018, it successfully lobbied a range of other countries—as the United States remained silent—to dismantle the Human Rights Up Front initiative, meant to prioritize human rights in U.n. field operations. U.S. president Joe Biden recognized the challenge of growing Chinese influence in his first foreign-policy address, when he vowed to “meet this new moment of advancing authoritarianism.” The Biden administration will undoubtedly offer the world a vision starkly different from China, built on democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. it doesn’t help that cause, however, when China is able to accurately refer to the United States as “the largest debtor,” while stressing that Beijing has paid its U.n. obligations in full. nor does it enhance U.S. standing with the top troop-contributing countries, including india, pakistan, and ethiopia, that are not being fully reimbursed for their peacekeeping personnel and equipment. These countries have been forced to withstand shortfalls in the tens of millions of dollars. When countries risking the most troops bear the burden of U.S. arrears, it

The state of gender equity in Australia is shameful AUSTRALIA HAS BECOME A SOCIETY WHERE WOMEN ARE ACTIVELY MARGINALISED AND HELD BACK THE LATE SUSAN RYAN LED THE CAMPAIGN THAT PRODUCED THE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT DURING THE HAWKE GOVERNMENT

sydnEy MornIng HErald

Emma Dawson

n an excruciating bit of timing, the World economic Forum on Wednesday released the latest annual report of its global gender gap index (gggi). The 2021 gggi measures the gender-based gaps of 156 countries among four key dimensions – economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment – and tracks progress towards closing those gaps. When the index commenced in 2006, australia was ranked 15th. By 2013, we had dropped to 24th, a fall of nine places in seven years. in the eight years since, however, we have fallen another 26 places, to now rank 50th, putting us behind the vast majority of comparable OeCD nations. australia has become a society where women are actively marginalised and held back. australia was the first country in the world to legislate a sex discrimination act, driven by the late Susan Ryan in the Hawke government. at the same time, we pioneered gender responsive budgeting processes, and began publishing an annual women’s budget statement through the federal Office for Women. Yet in the 15 years since the gggi was launched, australia’s commitment to achieving gender equality has been in retreat as the federal architecture that measured and promoted gender equality in australia has been deliberately dismantled. in 2006, the federal government stopped funding the australian Bureau of Statistics to undertake the Time Use Survey, which measured the hours of paid and unpaid labour performed by men and women in australia. in 2013, the women’s budget statement was abandoned by the abbott government, and the Office for Women was drastically downsized.

Where once australia led the world in the development of policies and legislation to promote gender equality, we are now falling far behind, so that we are now one of few developed nations that does not actively set targets for gender equality and measure progress towards nationally agreed goals. This failure of policy reflects government indifference to the fact that australia is a society in which women are actively marginalised and held back. perhaps the most telling statistical outcome from the 2021 gggi is that australia ranks equal first for educational attainment among women and girls, but 70th for economic participation and opportunity. it’s not that australian women aren’t trying their best – we are world-leaders in terms of our skills and abilities; it’s that we are not being given the opportunities to realise our full potential outside the home. in the workplace and in public life, we are at a significant and entrenched disadvantage compared to men, and that disadvantage is increasing year on year. as we have seen all too clearly over recent weeks, the opportunities australian women are given to contribute to the public life of the nation are limited, and come with unacceptable risks. We now rank just 54th on political empowerment, well behind most developed nations; and at 99th, we are firmly in the bottom half of countries when it comes to women’s health and survival, which includes measures of violence and harassment. How is it that women who are amongst the most educated in the world are falling so far behind on every other measure of success? What has gone wrong in australia’s gender politics since the heady days of the 1980s, when we made such great strides towards equality between men and women? Last year, just before the pandemic diverted our attention from almost every other issue in public life, per Capita published a landmark report that showed that the causes of women’s economic, social and material disadvantage in australia begin shortly after birth, and compound

across the duration of their lives. gathering research from leading gender economists and sociologists, and the most recent publicly available data, Measure for Measure: gender equality in australia demonstrated that australian women begin to fall behind their male peers as soon as they leave school: they earn less, take on more unpaid domestic work, work fewer hours, interrupt their careers to care for others, work in underpaid feminised industries, are overlooked for promotions, encounter systemic ignorance of their health needs, are vastly under-represented in the media and on the sporting field, work twice as hard to achieve positions of leadership in business, struggle to break through the ranks of political power, experience harassment, abuse and violence both in the home and in the workplace, and ultimately retire into much greater levels of poverty than men in their old age. The state of gender equality in australia is, put simply, shameful. and it’s getting worse, at a rapid pace. if we are to meaningfully address this national crisis, we need much more than a cabinet reshuffle and empathy courses for male leaders who make a mockery of the concept of merit in political life. The countries that are now out-performing australia on the gggi produce an annual review of national performance against gender equality targets. They have gender budget units in their treasury, as well as government architecture and funding to monitor performance and drive progress. Ultimately, what is required to deliver gender equality in australia is an unequivocal commitment to close the gender gap in every sphere of life, through a strong legislative framework and the reinstatement of our once worldleading machinery of government to track progress. We need leaders who aren’t still trying to get it, but are committed to getting it done. Because australian women are among the smartest, hardest working and most educated in the world – we aren’t the problem, our society is. Emma Dawson is executive director of Per Capita.

should challenge the United States’ notion of fair play. Mounting evidence over two decades shows that U.n. peacekeeping is effective at saving lives and ending wars in areas critical to U.S. national security. With 12 active missions around the world and 90,000 peacekeepers deployed, U.n. peacekeeping acts as a force multiplier for the United States at a fraction of the cost of a U.S. military intervention, and without risking american lives. U.n. peacekeeping isn’t perfect. The Biden administration should continue to support the reforms led by U.n. Secretary-general antónio guterres in his action for peacekeeping initiative, addressing exploitation and abuse, peacekeeper performance, gender parity, and conflict prevention. The United States’ ability to advocate effectively for such reforms directly correlates to upholding its own end of the bargain. as U.S. ambassador to the U.n. Linda Thomas-greenfield rightly noted at her Senate confirmation hearing, “We need to pay our bills to have a seat at the table.” Or as the British foreign secretary once chided: “no representation without taxation.” paying U.S. arrears was the right thing to do in 1999 and in 2009, and it is the right thing to do now. and to avoid a recurrence of this unfortunate ritual, Congress should lift the arbitrary statutory cap on peacekeeping dues that continually puts the United States at odds with its treaty obligations and undercuts its global standing. as Biden said, it is time to compete from a position of strength by “renewing our role in international institutions and reclaiming our credibility and moral authority.” There are few better ways for the United States to reclaim its credibility and moral authority on the world stage than by paying the dues it owes. Madeleine K. Albright served as the U.S. secretary of state from 1997 to 2001. John D. Negroponte was U.S. deputy secretary of state from 2007 to 2009. Thomas Pickering served as U.S. undersecretary of state for political affairs from 1997 to 2000.

A new generation takes charge in RSS DATTATREYA HOSABALE’S ELECTION AS SARKARYAVAH AND THE APPOINTMENT OF TWO NEW SAH-SARKARYAVAHS REFLECTS THE ORGANISATION’S ABILITY TO CHANGE WITH THE TIMES

IndIan ExprEss

Rajiv Tuli

peaking about the flexible nature of the Sangh in a lecture series at Vigyan Bhawan, new Delhi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat had said: “We are not required to take permission from anyone to make timely changes in the Sangh. We have this from the Sangh founder Dr Hedgewar, who mandated such changes.” after the elections in the akhil Bharatiya pratinidhi Sabha, the largest decision-making body of the RSS, the changes at the organisational level within the Sangh have drawn wide public attention. Dattatreya Hosabale, a relatively young functionary, has been elected the sarkaryavah of the Sangh. Somewhat like a corporate Chief executive Officer, the Sarkaryavah is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organisation. The sarsanghchalak has the role of a friend, mentor and guide. Balasaheb Deoras, the third sarsanghchalak of the RSS, is credited with introducing this method of collective decisionmaking to the organisation. Up to the time of the second sarsanghchalak, Madhav Sadashiv golwalkar, the word of the sarsanghchalak was unquestioningly followed down the line. a sarkaryavah is elected every third year by consensus. ever since the Sangh presented its written constitution to the government, barring the emergency in 1975, elections have been conducted with clockwork regularity. With each election come significant changes in accordance with the needs of the times. apart from the basic purpose of the Sangh and its guru, the saffron flag, everything is open to change. Since it is the idea, not the person, that has primacy, the saffron flag holds the status of a guru in the Sangh.

in this light, the recent change can be seen as a generational change. Suresh “Bhayyaji” Joshi became sarkaryavah at the age of 62 and Suresh Soni, who was the same age, became sah-sarkaryavah. The current election has witnessed a new generation of Sangh activists taking charge. The new sarkaryavah, Dattatreya Hosabale, has had a long innings in the akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi parishad since 1972. Born in Shimoga district of karnataka, Hosabale has held various responsibilities in the akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi parishad till 2003. He established the World Organisation for Students and Youth, a strong cultural organisation of students of foreign origin residing in india. With a postgraduate degree in english, he is popular with people across a wide spectrum of political ideologies. Hosabale’s team also has two new sahsarkaryavahs — arun kumar and Ram Dutt. arun kumar has spent a long time in the illegally indian Occupied Jammu and kashmir as state organising secretary and is an expert on the illegally indian Occupied Jammu and kashmir and internal security. He has been instrumental in the establishment of the thinktank, Jammu kashmir Study Centre. Ram Dutt, a postgraduate in mathematics and a gold medalist, was a pracharak (organising secretary) for central india and then Bihar. a new face in the team is prachar pramukh (chief of media relations), Sunil ambekar, who has been in the Vidyarthi parishad with Hosabale for many years. He has been in the news recently due to his book, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh: Roadmap for 21st century. Ramlal, who returned to the parent organisation from the BJp, is also known as a skilled organiser. He has been given the responsibility of the chief of public outreach (sampark pramukh). Hosabale’s tenure as sarkaryavah of the Sangh has begun at a crucial time: The next three years would witness many important developments, such as the preparation for general elections and the 75th anniversary of the independence of the country. it will be interesting to see how the Sangh and its sister organisations provide momentum to their continuing work of the organisation of the society through these opportunities. The writer is member of the RSS executive in the Delhi Prant.

Monday, 5 April, 2021

BUSINESS 09

ISLAMABAD

PTA directs Jazz to discontinue use of ‘Super 4G’ in adverts ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has directed Jazz to discontinue using the term ‘Super 4G’ in all sorts of advertising including commercials and billboards. According to details, PTA has directed the mobile operator to discontinue the term within 15 days by making necessary arrangements. “A compliance report should be submitted to this office within the stipulated time period,” a letter in this regard said. The letter states that PTA has examined the response provided by Jazz and the same is not consistent with the requirements of commercial practices as set out in Regulation 8 of Telecom Consumer Protection Regulations, 2009, thus, tantamount as misleading and ambiguous for an average consumer to take an informed transactional decision. The authority has said that the term “Super 4G” and phrases like “Super nahi tou 4G nahi” are considered to be misleading for an average consumer as there is no justification for such superiority in terms of technology or otherwise have been intimated or witnessed. Meanwhile, Jazz has filed a petition in IHC pertaining to this matter and requested the court to set aside PTA’s order. It also requested the court to grant interim relief and direct PTA to refrain from taking adverse or coercive measures against the appellant pending a final decision.

Flydubai to resume 737 Max operations with flight to Sialkot ISLAMABAD TLTP

Flydubai will resume Boeing 737 Max passenger flights on April 8 with the first flight will be from Dubai to Sialkot. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) lifted a 23month ban on the jet in February last, the carrier said on Sunday. The airline has complied with the safety requirements issued by the UAE aviation regulator to ensure the aircraft's safe return to service, Flydubai said in a statement. "The Max is integral to Flydubai’s fleet and we are confident in the aircraft and its capabilities," Ghaith Al Ghaith, Flydubai's chief executive, said. The first 737 Max flight will be to Sialkot, Pakistan, on April 8. Passengers will be notified in advance of travel if their itinerary now includes a flight that is scheduled to be operated by a 737 Max, the airline said. Flydubai has a fleet of 14 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, and four of its Max 8s and one of its Max 9s have now received regulatory approval to rejoin its fleet. The remaining nine Max aircraft will return to passenger service over the coming months, the statement said. The airline has a fleet of 50 aircraft and it carried more than 75 million passengers since it began operations in 2009. “I would like to commend the GCAA for their tireless pursuit of air safety and the diligent work undertaken by the Flydubai team to ensure the safe return of the MAX aircraft to passenger service,” Al Ghaith said. “We are pleased to see the Max aircraft rejoin our fleet. While the aircraft’s first flight will be from Dubai to Sialkot, they will operate to a number of flydubai’s destinations over the coming weeks,” Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer at Flydubai, said. “We look forward to reintroducing our Max product which includes a spacious lie flat bed in Business Class and an ergonomically designed seat in Economy Class and improved in-flight entertainment with full HD touchscreens,” he said. The return to service of the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft follows an exhaustive 20-month review which has involved the manufacturer, regulators, engineers, scientists, researchers, mechanics and pilots whose sole objective has been to safely return the aircraft to service.

ACTIon AGAInST SuGAr MAFIA on The CArdS ISLAMABAD

GHULAM ABBAS

HE government is likely to take strict action against those involved in the sugar crisis as fears of price hikes on basic commodities rise again. In this regard, Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) on Interior and Accountability, Shahzad Akbar, while addressing a press conference here on Saturday said that an inquiry into the sugar scandal was being carried out impartially as per the law. He said that no one is being targeted and this investigation is not person-specific Akbar said that there were reports that sugar prices would be increased in the month of Ramzan. “In order to check the artificial price hike of sugar through speculation, ex-mill price of sugar has been fixed at Rs80 per kilogramme in Punjab,” he said, adding that none of the governments in the past has done so. Referring to objections raised in front of the media by estranged PTI leader Jahangir Tareen over allegations of fraudulently misappropriating shareholder's money and committing money laundering through the sugar business by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the SAPM said that the reservations “were incorrect and the inquiry was being carried out impartially”. The special assistant had started his media talk giving a brief background of

SAPM ACCOUNTABILITY REJECTS TAREEN’S OBJECTIONS OVER SUGAR PROBE the history of sugar crises in the country, dating back to late Gen (r) Ayub Khan’s era, and added that the federal cabinet had ordered an inquiry into the sugar crisis in May last year after an FIA-led inquiry commission submitted its report. At the same time, he added that he was facing immense pressure in the process and there were concerns by all stakeholders including, the Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) against the ongoing inquiry. “Accountability is not an easy task. You cannot make friends while doing it,” he remarked. He said that actions were being taken against those involved in the sugar scam on the recommendations of the sugar commission report that was transparent and the government had not provided protection to anyone. The special assistant said that three FIRs had been registered in light of the findings of the report. “The sugar mills have been manipulating the situation. Since ex-mill price is not determined by the authorities, the vacuum gives space to profit mafia and these are the people who neither own mills nor are sugarcane growers and not even authorised dealers, but they operate the network of price setting through

verbal communications,” he said. “FIA officials in Karachi and Lahore conducted operations against these manipulators and confiscated their laptops and mobile phone sets, and it was unearthed that there were 16 WhatsApp groups to set future sugar price,” he said. “However the sugar mills too are not innocent and they were part of this chain as they benefited from these price manipulators,” Akbar added. He informed that the additional benefits were deposited in fake or benami accounts and only in the Lahore zone of FIA, 10 FIRs have been registered against 464 personal bank accounts of 40 major such manipulators or brokers, showing Rs106 billion turnover for this season. These accounts have been frozen and based on the ledgers of these accounts 392 benami personal bank accounts have been identified, showing a turnover of Rs666 bn, but these accounts yet not been frozen, and their data has been forwarded to the state bank and the FBR for action under the know your customer (KYC) regime. The special assistant informed about the new Punjab provincial law titled – Punjab prevention of speculation in essential commodities Ordinance 2021, which has been enforced recently.

He said that this law covers sugar, edible oil, ghee, wheat flour and rice, and price speculations in these items have been made a crime now. “Besides, the whole supply chain in the sugar sector has been streamlined in only two departments – the cane commissioner and the relevant deputy commissioner,” he added. He highlighted that the sugar inquiry commission report was presented to the federal government in May 2020 and at that time three types of actions were taken -- penal action, administrative action and legislative reforms. “The journey from May 2020 till now was not an easy task, he said. The Federal Board of Revenue was asked to launch a forensic audit of the sugar companies. Akbar said that revenue generated from the sugar industry had shown a 100 per cent increase and the FBR had found embezzlement of taxes in the sugar industry amounting to Rs400bn in five years and taken action against sugar mills in Punjab and Sindh. “The sugar commission report was challenged in the courts but the courts upheld the report and asked the government to take action,” Akbar said, adding that the report had recommended investigations against nine major sugar mills. He said that the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) had started to impose fines on sugar mills as the stay order on CCP orders had been vacated by the courts due to efforts made by the government.

PM approves reconstitution of 25-member EAC FINANCE MINISTER HAMMAD AZHAR APPOINTED AS VICE CHAIRMAN ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday approved the reconstitution of the Economic Advisory Council (EAC), which will recommend macro-economic stabilisation measures and carry forward the reform agenda for robust and sustained economic growth. As per the details, the EAC shall be chaired by the prime minister and the minister for finance and revenue shall be the vice chairman. In the absence of the premier, the vice chairman will chair the meeting. The private sector members include Abid Suleri, Arif Habib, Asif Quershi, Ejaz Nabi, Farooq Rahmatullah, Mohammad Ali Tabba, Dr Rashid Amjad, Salman Shah, Shaukat Tarin, Dr Shamshad Akhtar, Sultan Allana, Syed Salim Raza and Zaid Ali Mohammad. On the other hand, the ministers for energy, planning, development and reform, industries and production, national food security and economic affairs would also be the members of the EAC. Similarly, advisers to PM on commerce, institutional reform, overseas Pakistanis, power and petroleum, special assistants to PM on revenue, BOI chairman, and SBP governor would also be

the official members of the EAC. The EAC will have an advisory and capacity enhancement relationship with the government of Pakistan. It will engage with economic institutions collaboratively. Moreover, The EAC will follow the consultative process and suggest policy initiatives that will further strengthen and optimise financial and economic policies in order to enhance their welfare impact for the citizens. The ultimate goal of the EAC is to promote analytically sound and evidence-based reforms and initiatives after taking all stakeholders on board. The ministry of finance will be the nodal government agency for the EAC. The reconstitution of the EAC is aimed at framing an agenda for economic reforms in an entirely non-partisan manner and promoting an active and informed debate that leads to sound policymaking, analytical vetting and active monitoring.

Pakistan Business Council urges govt to renegotiate IMF deal The country’s business community has urged the government to renegotiate the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, taking into account the energy tariffs, rising unemployment, price hikes and other economic issues. “The IMF programme needs renegotiation. Frontloaded tax targets without the Federal Board of Reve¬nue’s (FBR) capability to broaden the tax base, knee-jerk withdrawal of investment incentives, higher utility costs to manage circular debt will sap growth of the fragile economy, threaten jobs,” the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) said in a tweet. The PBC had tagged the official Twitter accounts of Prime Minister Imran Khan and Minister for Finance, Revenue, Industries & Prod¬u¬ction Hammad Azhar. Earlier on April 1, Finance Minister Hammad Azhar on Wednesday hinted at reviewing the IMF programme and the controversial State Bank of Pakistan amendment bill 2021. “We are taking the SBP law to parliament with an open mind and are ready to adopt recommendations for its improvement,” he said at his maiden news conference as finance minister, a day after Pakistan launched a $2.5 billion international bond and received the $500 million tranche from the IMF. When asked if the design of the programme could also be changed given its harsh conditions, he said the government always had the powers to review the programme. BUSINESS DESK

World economy risks diverging trends even as growth booms: Bloomberg ISLAMABAD AGENCIES

The world economy is on course for its fastest growth in more than a half century this year; however, differences and deficiencies could hold it back from attaining its prepandemic heights any time soon. The US is leading the charge, pumping out trillions of dollars of budgetary stimulus and resuming its role as guardian of the global economy following President Joe Biden's defeat of "America First" President Donald Trump. Friday brought news of the

biggest month for hiring since August. China is doing its part too, building on its success in countering the coronavirus last year even as it starts to pull back on some of its economic aid. Yet unlike in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, the recovery looks lopsided, in part because the rollout of vaccines and fiscal support differ across borders. Among the laggards are most emerging markets and the Euro area, where France and Italy have extended restrictions on activity to contain the virus. "While the outlook has improved overall, prospects are diverging dangerously,"

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said last week. "Vaccines are not yet available to everyone and everywhere. Too many people continue to face job losses and rising poverty. Too many countries are falling behind." As a result, it could take years for swathes of the world to join the US and China in fully recovering from the pandemic. By 2024 world output will still be 3 percent lower than was projected before the pandemic, with countries reliant on tourism and services suffering the most, according to the IMF. The disparity is captured by Bloomberg

CMYK

Economics' new set of nowcasts which shows global growth of around 1.3 percent quarter on quarter in the first three months of 2021. But while the US is bouncing, France, Germany, Italy, the UK and Japan are contracting. In the emerging markets, Brazil, Russia and India are all being clearly outpaced by China. For the year as whole, Bloomberg Economics forecasts growth of 6.9 percent, the quickest in records dating back to the 1960s. Behind the buoyant outlook: a shrinking virus threat, expanding U.S. stimulus, and trillions of dollars in pent-up savings.

Much will depend on how fast countries can inoculate their populations with the risk that the longer it takes the greater the chance the virus remains an international threat especially if new variants develop. Bloomberg's Vaccine Tracker shows while the U.S. has administered doses equivalent to almost a quarter of its people, the European Union has yet to hit 10% and rates in Mexico, Russia and Brazil are less than 6 percent. "The lesson here is there is no trade-off between growth and containment," said Mansoor Mohi-uddin, chief economist at the Bank of Singapore Ltd.

Monday, 5 April, 2021

10 FOREIGN NEWS

ISLAMABAD

PoPE, In EaSTEr mESSagE, SLamS wEaPonS SPEndIng In TImE of PandEmIc VATICAN CITY

AGENCIES

OPE Francis urged countries in his Easter message on Sunday to quicken distribution of Covid-19 vaccines, particularly to the world’s poor, and called armed conflict and military spending during a pandemic “scandalous”. Coronavirus has meant this has been the second year in a row that Easter papal services have been attended by small gatherings at a secondary altar of St. Peter’s Basilica, instead of by crowds in the church or in the square outside. After saying Mass, Francis read his “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and the world) message, in which he traditionally reviews

URGES ISRAELIS AND PALESTINIANS TO ‘REDISCOVER THE POWER OF DIALOGUE’ TO REACH A TWO-STATE SOLUTION world problems and appeals for peace. “The pandemic is still spreading, while the social and economic crisis remains severe, especially for the poor. Nonetheless – and this is scandalous – armed conflicts have not ended and military arsenals are being strengthened,” he said. Francis, who would normally have given the address to up to 100,000 people in St. Peter’s Square, spoke to fewer than 200 in the church while the message was broadcast to tens of millions around the world.

Two rockets hit near Iraq airbase hosting US soldiers BAGHDAD AGENCIES

Two rockets hit near an Iraqi airbase hosting US soldiers north of Baghdad on Sunday, three days ahead of a new "strategic dialogue" with Washington, a security source told AFP. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the strike, which caused no casualties or property damage, but the US routinely blames ‘Iran-linked Iraqi factions’ for such attacks on its troops and diplomats. Sunday's was the 14th attack against American interests -- including troops, the Baghdad embassy or Iraqi supply convoys to foreign forces -- since US President Joe Biden took office in January. Two Americans and an Iraqi civilian have been killed in the attacks. An Iraqi civilian working for a firm maintaining US fighter jets for the Iraqi airforce was also wounded in one attack.

Scuffles in London as thousands join 'kill the bill' rallies across Britain LONDON AGENCIES

Thousands of demonstrators joined rallies across Britain on Saturday against a proposed law that would give police extra powers to curb protests, with some scuffles breaking out following a march in London. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts bill aims to toughen measures officers can take to disperse demonstrations, such as imposing time and noise limits, which campaigners and activists fear would be used to curb dissent. “Kill the bill” marches were held in dozens of towns and cities, supported by big campaign groups such as climate change campaigners Extinction Rebellion and the Black Lives Matter movement. Nearly all passed off peacefully but there were minor clashes in central London between protesters and police following a rally attended by several thousand people. London’s Metropolitan Police, which deployed a large number of officers in the capital to bring the protest to an end, said there had been 26 arrests and 10 officers were injured, although none seriously. “The vast majority of people who turned out in central London today did so while adhering to social distancing,” said Commander Ade Adelekan. “However, a small minority did not engage despite the repeated efforts of officers on the ground. “This left us with no option but to move to an enforcement stage and arrests have been made.” FREE SPEECH: The new bill follows action by Extinction Rebellion which paralysed parts of London in early 2019 and fuelled calls from some politicians for the police to be given tougher powers to prevent excessive disruption. Since the proposed law was brought before parliament last month, there have been sporadic demonstrations across the country, with Saturday’s rallies being part of what organisers said was a national weekend of action. “(I’m here) to defend the rights of free speech, and the rights of organisations in our society,” said Jeremy Corbyn, former leader of the main opposition Labour Party, who was among those who took part in the London protest. “These demonstrations, 50 of them today, will make a difference,” he told Reuters opposite the Houses of Parliament. Much of the protest so far has been focused in the southwestern English city of Bristol. Some demonstrations there have turned violent, with officers bombarded with missiles and police vehicles set on fire, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson described as “disgraceful attacks”. A large crowd gathered again in Bristol on Saturday evening, although the rally remained peaceful. Some senior officers have said the “kill the bill” tag was deliberately provocative as “the bill” is a nickname in Britain for the police.

The square was empty except for a few police officers enforcing a strict three-day national lockdown. The pope asked God to comfort the sick, those who have lost a loved one, and the unemployed, urging authorities to give families in greatest need a “decent sustenance”. He praised medical workers, sympathised with young people unable to attend school, and said everyone was called to combat the pandemic. “I urge the entire international commu-

nity, in a spirit of global responsibility, to commit to overcoming delays in the distribution of vaccines and to facilitate their distribution, especially in the poorest countries,” he said. Francis, who has often called for disarmament and a total ban on the possession of nuclear weapons, said: “There are still too many wars and too much violence in the world! May the Lord, who is our peace, help us to overcome the mindset of war.” ‘INSTRUMENTS OF DEATH’: Noting that it was International Awareness Day against anti-personnel landmines, he called such weapons “insidious and horrible devices ... how much better our world would be without these instruments of death!” In mentioning conflict areas, he singled out for praise “the young people of Myan-

Site manager, Taiwan minister accept responsibility for train crash HUALIEN AGENCIES

The manager of a construction site whose truck slid onto rail tracks causing a catastrophic train crash in Taiwan accepted responsibility for the disaster on Sunday, as did the transport minister, although his offer to resign was rejected for now. In the island’s worst rail accident in seven decades, 50 people have been confirmed dead after a packed express train carrying almost 500 passengers and crew slammed into a truck near the eastern city of Hualien on Friday, causing it to derail and the front part to crumple. The truck that the train hit had slid down a sloping road onto the track just outside a tunnel. Officials are investigating the manager of the construction site, Lee Yihsiang, whose truck is suspected of not having its brakes properly applied. Lee had been released on bail, though the high court’s Hualien branch on Sunday rescinded that decision after the prosecutors appealed it, sending the case back to the lower court. Lee read out a statement apologising for what happened as police took him away from his residence, Taiwan media reported. “I deeply regret this and express my deepest apologies,” he said. “I will definitely cooperate with the prosecutors and police in the investigation, accept the responsibility that should be borne, and never shirk it. Finally, I once again express my sincerest apologies.” Speaking earlier in the day at the crash site overlooking the ocean and backed by precipitous mountains, Transport Minister Lin Chia-lung said he too would “not avoid” responsibility. “I am also in charge of minimising the damage caused by the entire accident. After the whole rescue work is completed, I believe I will take the responsibility,” he said. Premier Su Tseng-chang’s office said Lin had made

a verbal offer to resign on Saturday, but Su rejected it for the time being, saying efforts for now should focus on rescue and recovery. SEARCH EFFORTS: Workers are continuing to remove the train from inside the tunnel and look for other bodies, and officials have warned the death toll could go up or down as they verify identities. The government revised the toll down by one on Sunday evening to 50. The Transport Ministry and the rail administration that comes under it are facing a number of questions, including why there was no proper fencing at the site and whether too many standing-only tickets were sold for the train journey. Deputy transport minister Wang Kwo-tsai said late Saturday the railway administration needed to take hard look at all these issues. The railway administration is also without a permanent director after its former chief retired in January. The position is being filled in an acting capacity by another deputy transport minister, Chi Wen-chung. Wang said Lin was working hard to find the right person to fill the job. ‘SO ANGRY’: The uncle of the youngest confirmed victim, a 5-year-old girl, tearfully told reporters he was still waiting for an apology for the accident. “I’m so angry,” he said. The government has promised compensation and said it will do everything it can to help survivors and their relatives, including coordinating public donations. The damaged section of the track will not reopen until April 20 at the earliest, Wang said, though rail traffic continues on a parallel track that runs through another tunnel and was not affected by the accident. The accident occurred at the start of a long weekend for the traditional Tomb Sweeping Day, when people return home to tend to family graves. Survivors have described terrible scenes inside the wreck.

mar committed to supporting democracy and making their voices heard peacefully”. More than 550 protesters have been killed since a Feb. 1 military coup in Myanmar, which the pope visited in 2017. Francis called for peace in several conflict areas in Africa, including the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia and the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique. He said the crisis in Yemen has been “met with a deafening and scandalous silence”. He appealed to Israelis and Palestinians to “rediscover the power of dialogue” to reach a two-state solution where both can live side by side in peace and prosperity. Francis said he realised many Christians were still persecuted and called for all restrictions on freedom of worship and religion worldwide to be lifted.

Ethiopia says Eritrean troops have started withdrawing from Tigray NAIROBI: Eritrean forces have started withdrawing from Ethiopia’s Tigray region in the north, the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry said. The United States, Germany, France and other G7 countries called on Friday for a swift, unconditional and verifiable withdrawal of the Eritrean soldiers, followed by a political process that is acceptable to all Ethiopians. In a rejoinder issued late on Saturday through the Foreign Ministry, Ethiopia said that the G7 foreign ministers’ statement had not acknowledged key steps being taken to address the needs of the region. “The Eritrean troops who had crossed the border when provoked by the TPLF have now started to evacuate and the Ethiopian National Defense Force has taken over guarding the national border,” it said in a statement. Fighting erupted in Tigray in early November after forces loyal to the then-governing party there - the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) attacked army bases across the region. In late November, federal troops ousted the TPLF from the capital Mekelle and the Ethiopian government declared victory. Thousands of people died in the conflict, hundreds of thousands have been forced from their homes and there are shortages of food, water and medicine in the region. The government says most fighting has ceased but there are still isolated incidents of shooting. Full access to the region has now been granted to humanitarian organisations, the Foreign Ministry said, adding that a joint investigation with external experts into alleged human rights violations will start soon. AGENCIES

Easter eggs a symbol of defiance for Myanmar protesters AGENCIES Opponents of military rule in Myanmar inscribed messages of protest on Easter eggs on Sunday while thousands of others were back on the streets, denouncing a Feb. 1 coup and facing off with the security forces who shot and killed two men. In the latest in a series of impromptu shows of defiance, messages including “Spring Revolution”, “We must win” and “Get out MAH” - referring to junta leader Min Aung Hlaing - were seen on eggs in photographs on social media. “Easter is all about the future and the people of Myanmar have a great future in a federal democracy,” Dr Sasa, international envoy for the ousted civilian government, said in a statement. Sasa, who uses only one name, is a member of a largely Christian ethnic minority in the predominantly Buddhist country. Opponents of military rule have mounted a civil disobedience campaign since the military overthrew the elected government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, that has included creative shows of defiance promoted on social media. Young people in the main city of Yangon handed out eggs bearing the messages of protest, pictures in posts showed. Crowds have returned to the streets day and night to reject the return of military rule after a decade of tentative steps towards democracy. Numerous candle-lit vigils took place overnight. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), an activist group monitoring casualties and arrests, said the toll of dead had risen to 557, as of late Saturday.

In the capital, Naypyitaw, two men were killed when police fired on protesters on motorbikes, the Irrawaddy news site reported. Police and a spokesman for the junta did not answer telephone calls seeking comment. Several thousand marched in the second city of Mandalay, according to images on social media, before police and soldiers moved in to disperse them. Protesters also gathered in several other towns in the north and the south and a huge crowd, including many women in straw hats, streamed through the central town of Taze chanting slogans, pictures from DVB TV News showed. The AAPP said 2,658 people were in detention, including four women and a man who spoke to a visiting CNN news crew in interviews on the streets of the main city of Yangon last week. A spokesman for CNN said the network was aware of reports of detentions following the team’s visit and was “pressing the authorities for information”. Struggling to end the protests, the junta has intensified a campaign to stifle criticism. It ordered internet providers to cut wireless broadband and issued arrest warrants for nearly 40 celebrities known for their opposition to military rule, including social media influencers, singers and models, under a law against inciting dissent in the armed forces. The charges, announced on state television’s evening news bulletin on Friday and Saturday, can carry a prison term of three years. ‘CONSCIENCE CLEAR’: One of those charged, blogger Thurein Hlaing Win, told Reuters he was

shocked to be branded a criminal and had gone into hiding. “I didn’t do anything bad or evil. I stood on the side of truth,” he said by telephone from an undisclosed location. “If I get punished for that, my conscience is clear ... Everyone knows the truth.” The military ruled the former British colony with an iron fist after seizing power in 1962 until it began withdrawing from politics a decade ago, releasing Suu Kyi from house arrest and allowing an election that her party swept in 2015. It says it had to oust Suu Kyi’s government because a November election, again won easily by her party, was rigged. The election commission has dismissed the assertion. But many in Myanmar, including younger people who have come of age in the past decade of opening up, cannot accept the return of rule by the generals. Suu Kyi is in detention facing charges that could bring 14 years in prison. Her lawyer says the charges are trumped up. The coup has also triggered clashes with autonomy-seeking ethnic minority forces that have announced support for the pro-democracy movement. The Karen National Union, which signed a ceasefire in 2012, has seen the first military air strikes on its forces in more than 20 years and says it must fight to defend itself from a government offensive. Fighting has also flared in the north between the army and ethnic Kachin insurgents. The turmoil has sent several thousand refugees fleeing into Thailand and India. Suu Kyi’s party has vowed to set up a federal democracy, the minority groups’ main demand.

Monday, 5 April, 2021

SPORTS 11

ISLAMABAD

City Show Strength in dePth to MoVe CLoSer to titLe CITIZENS LEAD SECOND PLACED UNITED BY 17 POINTS; NEED 11 POINTS FROM THEIR FINAL SEVEN MATCHES TO BE CHAMPIONS LONDON

AGENCIES

ANCHESTER City moved closer to the Premier League title with Saturday’s 2-0 win at Leicester City highlighting once more the options available to manager Pep Guardiola. Returning from the international break, the Spaniard left out players who had been heavily involved in World Cup qualifying

but it was barely noticeable as his team dominated third-placed Leicester. England trio Raheem Sterling, Phil Foden and John Stones started on the bench, along with in-form German Ilkay Gundogan, Portuguese pair Bernardo Silva and Joao Cancelo and Spain’s Ferran Torres. Guardiola was delighted as Benjamin Mendy, who has fallen down the pecking order to become third-choice left-back, broke the deadlock before Gabriel Jesus added the second. “Yesterday (Friday) the

Szafnauer says it’s ‘too early’ to judge Vettel performance It’s been something of a nightmare start to Sebastian Vettel’s Aston Martin career, with the German recording the fewest laps of any race driver at pre-season testing – while his first race weekend in Bahrain was blighted by a number of errors. But despite that, Vettel’s new boss Otmar Szafnauer was confident it would all come good eventually for the fourtime champion this season. Having completed just 117 laps at Bahrain pre-season testing – the lowest of anyone bar Williams test driver Roy Nissany – the Bahrain Grand Prix saw Vettel fail to get on terms with the Aston Martin AMR21, the German never troubling the top 10 throughout practice. In qualifying, meanwhile, Vettel received a five-place grid penalty for a yellow flag infringement, dropping him from his P18 grid slot to last place, and leaving him to come home P15 at the flag – Vettel having received an additional 10-second penalty for colliding with Alpine’s Esteban Ocon. But Team Principal Szafnauer was trying to look on the bright side regarding Vettel’s performance, after a challenging debut for the Aston Martin team, who scored just one point thanks to Lance Stroll’s P10. “If you look at the positives, [Sebastian] had to start last and he was running in the top 10 for a while,” said Szafnauer. “I had to leave the debrief so I don’t know what his feedback was, but watching from the pit wall, looking at his lap times, [they] were not too dissimilar to Lance, who’s been driving here a while and knows us well, knows the car well and ended up finishing in a pretty decent position – and at times was competitive on the mediums and the soft, as was Seb. AGENCIES

players came back and I spoke to some of them and some were tired - three games in 10 days, they travel a lot,” said Guardiola. “So we tried to put on the fresh legs as possible today. The players who didn’t play the last game on international duty were ready to play,” he said, noting that the outstanding Kevin De Bruyne had benefitted from not playing Belgium’s third game of the break. De Bruyne dominated the midfield and was also quick to note the way City had quickly regained their form after the fortnight absence. “I came back on Tuesday after the game and trained on Thursday and half the team trained yesterday,” said De Bruyne. “All we can do is rest up, be ready for

Perez recalls ‘a lot of politics’ during McLaren stint

the games and the manager chooses the players who have been here the longest. “When you win the game it’s always the right pick. The team did really well and I am really pleased,” he said. City lead second placed Manchester United by 17 points and need 11 points from their final seven matches to be sure of their third Premier League title in four years. “After the internationals I didn’t know how the players would be. They showed how much they wanted to win the Premier League,” said Guardiola. “It is our fifth season together. You saw the commitment - De Bruyne, Fernandinho... I love all the players winning balls in this competition. We are close, we are closer.”

Inter have not achieved anything yet, warns coach Conte 1-0 WIN IN BOLOGNA MARKED A HUGE STEP TOWARDS THEM BEING CROWNED ITALIAN CHAMPIONS, AS IT SENT THEM EIGHT POINTS CLEAR MILAN AGENCIES

Inter Milan have a lot of work still to do before they can think about ending an 11-year wait for the Serie A title, head coach Antonio Conte warned his players after their 1-0 win in Bologna on Saturday. The victory marked a huge step towards Inter being crowned Italian champions, as it sent them eight points clear in first after title rivals AC Milan and Juventus were held to draws by

Sampdoria and Torino respectively. “There are still 10 games to play, nine for some other teams. The road is long and there are still 27-30 points to assign,” Conte told Sky Italia. “We know very well that the Italian league is difficult, you need to win every game. As the games count down, it’s inevitable that we will start to look ahead. But it’s up to us to earn first place, we haven’t achieved anything yet.” Inter, who last won Serie A under Jose Mourinho in 2009/10, have a game in hand over second-placed Milan and

can extend their lead to 11 points if they beat Sassuolo at home on Wednesday. A title win would not only end Inter’s long wait, but end Juventus’s nine-year stranglehold on the domestic championship. “Inter called me in to change the history of recent years. The objective was to manage to win within three years, or to build something credible and make the fans proud,” Conte said. “Some things have changed since the start of the journey, but we have to stay focused on the work and think about influencing what we can.”

Sergio Perez said there were “a lot of politics” which led to his McLaren stint ending after just one season, not performance issues. After bursting onto the scene at Sauber, Perez then earned his first opportunity with a team expected to challenge at the top of Formula 1 as McLaren signed him up for 2013. That season though McLaren failed to make a single appearance on the podium, and despite scoring 49 points Perez left the team at the end of the season with several drivers, including team-mate Jenson Button, unimpressed with Perez’s aggressive driving style. But Perez felt there were a lot more politics in play. “In that year I think there were a lot of politics because the driving side wasn’t that bad. I went into a team fairly inexperienced next to Jenson and basically it was his team, he was a World Champion,” he told Sky F1. “I outqualified him so in terms of pace I think you could see the young kid had the speed. But there were other things around and I’ve learned from them. I think I’m a more complete and rounded driver. If it doesn’t work now it’s not going to work ever.” Skip forward to 2021 though and Perez now finally has another chance in a team expected to challenge for race wins in Red Bull. It is the same situation though as he goes into a team very much built around a driver, that driver being Max Verstappen. Perez’s first impressions of the Dutchman is that he is laser focused on going as fast as he can, but outside of the car Verstappen is a fairly laid back personality. “With Max, I’ve been hanging out with him in a way that I can say he’s just about going as fast as possible and out of the car he has been pretty chilled out,” said Perez. “That’s the first impression I’ve had. We are working well together, giving very similar feedback of what we want and which direction we want to take. I definitely think I have a lot to learn from Max and hopefully vice versa as well.” Perez is beloved in his native Mexico, and this season he will return home with the chance of victory in front of his supporters. “I know the car around Mexico is always good. Red Bull have won a lot of grands prix there, so you have to imagine that if I can win that race it will be something quite big for me,” he said of the prospect. AGENCIES

French Open postponement a possibility: sports minister PARIS AGENCIES

French Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu said it was possible the French Open could be postoned for the second year amid the Covid-19 crisis. France entered a third nationwide lockdown on Saturday to contain the coronavirus spread, although professional sports have largely been spared.

An exception is cycling’s Paris-Roubaix one-day race, which has been postponed from its original April 11 slot. The French Open, which last year was postponed by four months and took place in front of limited crowds, is due to start this year on May 23. “We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide with a possible resumption of all sports and major events,” Maracineanu told France Info

radio late on Saturday. “Today, although high-level sport has been preserved, we try to limit the risks of clusters, of spreading the virus within professional sports.” President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that he was expecting to re-open the country in mid-May. The director-general of the French Tennis Federation, Gilles Moreton, said earlier this week that he could not imagine the Grand Slam tournament being cancelled.

How Honda created the weapon that makes Red Bull title contenders AGENCIES There was widespread shock when Honda announced last October that the 2021 season would be their last in Formula 1, following a change in company objectives. But based on their performance in the opening Grand Prix, during which they powered Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to pole position and came within 0.7s of victory, there’s a chance they could leave on the ultimate high: a world championship title. Honda’s struggles on returning to F1 with McLaren in 2015 have been well-documented, but they turned a corner when they first joined up with Toro Rosso in 2018, before taking on Red Bull the following year. Last year’s power unit was their best yet, with an improved power output putting them second in the pecking order behind Mercedes. But Honda’s Technical Department believed that design had reached its limit. And despite deciding to leave F1 at the end of 2021, the F1 leadership team successfully convinced Honda President Takahiro Hachigo to implement their plan for a new Power Unit structure - initially targeted for 2022 - this year. It was a bold move, but one that could pay them back big time... A RACE AGAINST TIME: Honda’s talented technicians were put under extreme pressure, as they had just six months to get the new engine ready in time. When I spoke to Honda’s F1 Research and Development chief Yasuaki Asaki, he said the team had already spent the last couple of years looking “at the old engine to work out where its limits are” but it wasn’t until the start of October

“that everyone started putting all their efforts into getting this new engine ready”. Naturally, Red Bull had some questions about the remarkably short timescale, but Honda moved to assure them that such drastic action was required if they aspired to challenge Mercedes. And they backed themselves to get the job done. “We explained that with the previous PU we would not be able to beat Mercedes, and that we would need the new PU in order to do that,” said Asaki. “In order to win we needed to implement the new PU, and hence we started work on it.” In recent years, Honda’s F1 team has increased its collaboration with departments in other parts of the company, such as with Honda Jet on the MGU-H, which was at the time a troublesome component for the Japanese manufacturer. And they did just that this time, to ensure they could turn around parts quickly enough. “With the help of Honda Motor we’ve had some input on production methods, we’ve been able to produce certain parts with three times the speed that we usually would and we were able to get the units required for the first race,” said Asaki. That Honda have managed to achieve the feat, and get the engine to the test in Bahrain on time, and working reliably, is testament to the sheer determination and refusal to accept defeat of their employees. “Changing the structure of the PU with only six months until testing and round one is an incredibly challenging thing to do,” said Asaki. “But thanks to the hard work that everyone put in together, we were able to get the development work done, we ran well in

testing, and were able to get ready for round one. “So if everything goes well, we think that this will be able to contribute to the capabilities of Red Bull. And also it’s a sign of the almost miraculous technological achievement that we’ve able to achieve.” THE PURSUIT OF TIGHTER PACKAGING: It sounds simple: To beat Mercedes, Honda primarily needed to generate more power. Achieving it was anything but. To do so, they changed the camshaft layout, making it more compact and moving it lower so it’s closer to the ground, while also changing the valve angle. This allowed Honda to develop the combustion chamber, in a bid to improve combustion efficiency, while also lowering the centre of gravity of the internal combustion engine (ICE). “We changed the bore pitch by reducing the distance between one bore and the next, so we’ve made the engine itself shorter and smaller,” said Asaki.

CMYK

What this means is a smaller, more compact, and more ruthlessly efficient engine that is remarkably smaller than the notorious ‘size zero’ power unit they introduced with so many problems at McLaren – and their biggest overhaul of the design in this latest stint in F1. “We had a lot of cooperation from Red Bull, making sure that we could get the most from this new compact engine,” added Asaki. “This is the first time that we’ve gone as far as changing the structure of the PU itself.” CHASING MERCEDES ON TRACK: Honda are aware that they only have one more shot at this before they leave, so they are throwing everything at it. And based on their simulations and data, if they achieve their goals, they believe overhauling the most dominant power unit of the hybrid turbo era is possible. “We only have one year left so we have to be able to gain improvements from this

straight away,” said Asaki. “Our objective is to beat Mercedes. Last year just as we thought we were getting closer to them, they showed further improvement. So looking back on what we’ve learned so far, we’ve set even higher goals for ourselves and if their improvements are within what we’ve assumed then to be then I believe we have the capability to compete with them.” Based on their performance in Bahrain, which is a power-sensitive track, they have made a huge step. For the first time in the hybrid turbo era at the track, Red Bull were genuinely competitive over one-lap in qualifying, with Max Verstappen taking a sensational pole position by nearly 0.4s from Lewis Hamilton. In the race, he had the car and power unit to compete until the bitter end. It’s one thing to build a more powerful engine, quite another to make it reliable, too. But Honda have learned their lessons over the last six years, and with their experience, ambition and fierce determination, they have made a robust power unit that appears up to the task. It ran without problems through three days of pre-season testing – and delivered on that promise in the first race weekend. “First of all I think the fact that our engineers have grown a lot since then is a big factor in this,” said Asaki when talking about their impressive reliability. “We’ve also been able to construct systems using mono-cylinders and other methods to make sure that when we’re making a big change like this that first of all there are no problems before we push ahead with it. I think the fact that we had difficulties in the past has contributed to the growth our engineers have shown.”

Monday, 5 April, 2021

prAyer timings

NEWS

PPP ready fOr sOlO fIght tO tOPPle gOvt: BIlawal LARKANA

stAff report

AKISTAN People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal BhuttoZardari on Sunday made it clear to other opposition parties that his party is ready to go solo in its democratic fight to topple Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government. “PPP is ready to do opposition either alone or with other opposition parties but one thing is clear that we will not let this selected government to function,” he said on Sunday while addressing a rally held to observe 42nd death anniversary of party founder and former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in Larkana. The rift between two major opposition parties – the Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) and the PPP – over the office of the Senate’s leader of the opposition deepened on Friday when five opposition parties, including the PML-N, agreed to form a separate bloc of 27 opposition senators in the upper house of parliament. Serious differences emerged between the parties – both part of an anti-government alliance, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) – after the PPP appointed its stalwart Yousuf Raza Gillani as Senate’s opposition leader, apparently in violation of what had earlier been agreed upon in a PDM meeting.

Bilawal, in Sunday’s address, said that only his party knows how to fight with the government and the establishment both inside and outside the parliament. “Imran Khan would have secured ‘super majority’ in the upper house of parliament if PDM parties had boycotted the Senate elections,” he maintained. Due to his party’s ‘smart strategy’, he added, opposition parties were able to defeat the ruling party both in the Senate and in by-elections across the country. “PPP showed it to its allies how to fight with PM Imran and his selectors after [PDM] defeating them in by-elections and

Senate polls.” On PDM’s decision to postpone the long march, Bilawal expressed regret, saying that “by the time opposition parties reached Islamabad, PM Imran had already left his office”. He also lamented that the anti-government march was made conditional to en masse resignations from all legislative assemblies and added that his party would discuss this matter in the upcoming Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting. He expressed wonder over PML-N’s decision to oppose in-house change in Punjab. “I am unable to understand as to

why they [PML-N] opposed such a move which could topple the government of Usman Buzdar,” he said. Bilawal urged the PDM parties to make joint efforts to topple the “selected government” and added that it has become inevitable in the public interest to remove the incumbent rulers. He also lashed out at the PTI-led government for causing ‘unprecedented damage’ to the country’s economy due to its flawed policies. “The country has been pushed into historic poverty… even during the war times the country’s economy was performing better but today for the first time it entered into a negative territory.” Bilawal said Pakistan’s economy is lagging behind Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Earlier, the PPP chief Sunday visited the mausoleum of the martyrs of Bhutto’s family in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, in connection of 42nd death anniversary of founder chairman and former prime minister Zulfikar. Bilawal laid a floral wreath at the grave of the PPP founder and offered Fateha. He also visited the graves of his mother, PPP chairperson and former prime minister Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, former PPP chairperson and first lady Begum Nusrat Bhutto, Shireen Amir Begum, the first wife of Zulfikar, Mir Murtaza Bhutto and Mir Shahnawaz Bhutto, and offered Fateha besides laying floral wreaths.

South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs in 2nd ODI despite Fakhar’s 193

South Africa held out to level the ODI series 1-1 with a 17-run win over Pakistan on Sunday that was much closer than it should have been because of Fakhar Zaman’s brilliant 193 in a losing effort. Fakhar’s score came from 155 balls

and he hit 18 fours and 10 sixes to give South Africa a big scare in the second oneday international. Pakistan were 205-7 at one stage before Fakhar really got going, but ultimately finished on 324-9, chasing 342 to win at

the Wanderers in Johannesburg. Fakhar was run out off the first ball of the last over in unusual fashion. He was running back to the striker’s end for two when he slowed down, thinking the throw from fielder Aiden Markram was going to the other end. It wasn’t and a direct hit found Fakhar short. Even if Fakhar was there to see it through, Pakistan still faced the very steep task of getting 31 off that last over to win. South Africa’s success was down to a thorough batting display, with 80 from opener Quinton de Kock, 92 from new captain Temba Bavuma and half-centuries from Rassie van der Dussen (60) and David Miller (50 not out). Van der Dussen’s 60 came from just 37 balls and Miller’s 50 from 27 deliveries to give South Africa late impetus to post its big total of 341-6. South Africa’s bowlers then quickly worked through Pakistan’s top order in the chase, with the exception of Fakhar. Fast bowler Anrich Nortje took 3-63 and the highest score for Pakistan other than Fakhar’s 193 was 31 from captain

Babar Azam. FIRST ODI: South Africa’s victory comes on the back of Pakistan’s last-ball win in the first ODI at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Friday. Batting first, South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen hit 123 not out, his maiden international century. But South Africa’s total of 273 for six did not seem enough as Babar and Imamul-Haq (70) put on 177 for Pakistan’s second wicket, taking them to within 88 runs of victory with 18.2 overs left before Babar was caught behind off Nortje. During the first ODI, Babar Azam had hit a stroke-filled 103 off 104 balls but his dismissal had started a collapse in which fast bowler Anrich Nortje took four wickets in four overs. Four wickets fell for 17 runs. Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan steadied the innings in a partnership of 53 but both were dismissed in the closing overs before Faheem Ashraf hit the winning run off the final ball. The series-deciding final game is on Wednesday. Agencies

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22 Indian security members killed in Maoist attack: govt NEW DELHI: At least 22 members of Indian security forces were killed in a central Indian state by Maoist fighters, one of the bloodiest attacks by the extreme left-wing insurgent groups this year, officials said on Sunday. Security personnel belonging to the Central Reserve Police Force’s elite CoBRA unit, the District Reserve Guard, and the Special Task Force were attacked on Saturday in the tribaldominated Chhattisgarh state during an anti-insurgency operation. “We can confirm that 22 of Indian force members have been killed by Maoist fighters,” said a senior government official in Raipur, the capital of mineral-rich Chhattisgarh. They were killed in firing that lasted for four hours in the border district of Sukma, 540 kilometres (340 miles) south of Raipur. Om Prakash Pal, a senior police official in Raipur said combing operations to trace one missing security force member was being conducted. The death toll was the worst for Indian security forces battling the far-left guerrillas since 2017. The Maoists, also known as Naxals, have waged an armed insurgency against the government for decades. Leaders of the hardline leftist militant group say they are fighting on behalf of the poorest, who have not benefited from a long economic boom in Asia’s third-largest economy. The militant group operates from thick forests and their operations against the Indian administration and forces are shrouded with secrecy. The group has not claimed responsibility for the latest attack. Hours after the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on Twitter that the “sacrifices of the brave martyrs will never be forgotten. May the injured recover at the earliest.”

NCOC bans interprovincial transport for two weeks due to rising Covid cases The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has placed a ban on inter-provincial transport – which will come into effect from April 10 – on Saturdays and Sundays, it emerged on Sunday. The restriction will last till April 25, the notification from the country’s Covid-response hub read. “Railway to continue to operate seven days a week with 70 per cent occupancy. Ban will be reviewed on 10 April 2021 by NCOC,” it added. Moreover, the transport of goods, freight, medical and other emergency services will be exempted from the ban. Sindh Chief Minister’s Adviser on Law Barrister Murtaza Wahab on Friday had said that the Sindh chief minister tried to persuade the prime minister to take tough decisions at the March 31 NCOC meeting. He had said that the Sindh government has not proposed a complete lockdown. He had added that the Sindh CM had requested a ban on the inter-provincial movement of people. He had also said that CM Murad has also suggested speeding up the vaccination process and removing the age bracket so that patients suffering from heart, cancer and kidney diseases could be vaccinated, he had added. He had stressed that the Sindh government had been active in implementing coronavirus standard operating procedure (SOPs) in the province from day one. Agencies

Jordan military warns king’s half-brother to stop actions undermining stability AMMAN Agencies

Jordan’s military has told King Abdullah’s half-brother Prince Hamza bin Hussein to halt actions targeting “security and stability” in what people familiar with the matter said could be related to a plot to destabilise the country. In a statement published by the state news agency, the military said the warning to Prince Hamza was part of a broader, ongoing security investigation in which a former minister, a junior member of the royal family and unnamed others were detained. Prince Hamza said in a video recording he was under house arrest and had been told to stay at home and not contact anyone. Speaking in English in the video, passed by his lawyer to the BBC, he said he was not part of any foreign conspiracy and denounced the ruling system as corrupt. “(Jordanians’) well being has been put second by a ruling system that has decided that its personal interests, financial interests,

that its corruption is more important than the lives and dignity and future of the ten million people who live here,” he said. Earlier, army chief Yusef Huneity denied reports the prince had been arrested but said he was told to “stop activities that are being exploited to target Jordan’s security and stability”. Two people familiar with the situation told Reuters security forces had arrived at his small palace and begun an investigation. King Abdullah dismissed Prince Hamza as heir to the throne in 2004 in a move that consolidated his power. The Washington Post said Jordanian authorities detained the former crown prince and arrested nearly 20 other people after what officials called a “threat to the country’s stability”. A former US official with knowledge of events in Jordan said the plot, which he described as credible and broadbased but not imminent, did not involve a “physical coup.” Rather, he said, those involved were planning to push for protests that would appear

to be a “popular uprising with masses on the street” with tribal support. Jordan would investigate whether there was a foreign hand in the plot, said the former US official. POWERFUL TRIBES: Prince Hamza is not seen as a major threat to Jordan’s monarchy and has been marginalised for years, but the move against him represents the first such incident involving a close member of the royal family since King Abdullah came to the throne. The authorities have become increasingly concerned with his efforts to build ties with disgruntled figures within powerful tribes. These people known as the Herak have in recent weeks called for protests against corruption in a country hit hard by the impact of Covid-19 on the economy, pushing unemployment to record levels and deepening poverty. The authorities had cracked down on several demonstrations, detaining dozens. Tribes who dominate the security forces form the bedrock of support for the king-

dom’s Hashemite monarchy. The state news agency said Bassem Awadallah, a US-educated long-time confidant of the king who later became minister of finance and also adviser to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Sharif Hassan Ben Zaid, a member of the royal family, were detained along with other unnamed figures. It gave no details. “The US administration knows that Bassam Awadullah works for MBS (Mohammed bin Salman). Any astute observer will say if someone this close to MBS is involved he would have to know,” said the former US official. The Saudi royal court voiced its “full support” for King Abdullah and all decisions taken by him to maintain security and stability. Egypt, Lebanon, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar also stood by him. The US State Department said the king was a “key partner” and had its full backing. Government officials were not immediately available for comment.

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

Arrests of top officials and royal family members are rare in Jordan, seen as one of the Arab world’s most stable countries. POLITICAL WILDERNESS: Prince Hamza, who had been groomed by his mother Queen Noor to succeed his late father King Hussein, has been pushed into the political wilderness since he was sacked as crown prince. Some opposition figures have rallied around him, a move that has displeased the king, officials familiar with the situation said. Abdullah succeeded his father King Hussein, who ruled Jordan for nearly five decades. The Jordanian Hashemite dynasty’s tradition under the 1952 constitution gives the succession to the eldest son but the monarch retains the option of naming a brother. King Abdullah has succeeded in bringing political stability to the country and gaining stature as a prominent Arab leader whose message of moderation has found an echo, especially in Western forums.