EpaperKHI_22-5-10

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 I 8 Shawwal, 1443 I Rs 15.00 I Vol XII No 310 I 12 Pages I Karachi Edition

PM Shehbaz aSSailS iMran Khan for ‘SPewing PoiSon’ againSt State inStitutionS

ISLAMABAD

P

Mian abrar

RIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday came down hard over PTI Chairman Imran Khan for his comments regarding state institutions and said that action should be taken against him within the ambit of the law and the Constitution for spewing poison against state institutions.

Addressing the National Assembly session, the prime minister said Imran’s comments were “very dangerous and terrifying”. He said Imran had “directly” likened Pakistan’s institutions to Mir Jafar and Mir Sadiq.

Imran Khan, while addressing a public gathering in Abbottabad on Sunday, had narrated the stories of Mir Jaffar and Mir Sadiq. The former prime minister had said Sirajud Daula was a governor of the Mughal emperor whose commander-in-

chief, Mir Jaffar, joined hands with the English to topple the government.

He had said that his government was removed from power through “the Mir Jafars and Mir Sadiqs of today”. PM Shehbaz had criticised the comments yesterday and vowed to take action.

“The poison he spewed about the institution yesterday is a conspiracy against it and Pakistan. If this is not stopped through the law and the Constitution then God forbid this country will become a hideous reflection of Syria and Libya where cities present scenes of graveyards today,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

The prime minister claimed that Imran was the “blue-eyed” of the institution and “was fed milk like a child”.

“Without fear I want to say that in 75 years, this institution has never supported any government or prime minister like it did Imran Khan.

“It was his misfortune that despite that

he learned nothing, did nothing and did not serve the nation. There is no example found of this kind of support and nor will it be found again,” Shehbaz said, adding that if even 20 per cent to 30pc of that support was provided to the PPP or PML-N governments then “we would have had this country [taking] off as a plane flies.”

The prime minister reiterated that if Imran’s comments were not clamped down on then “nothing would be left” and there would be a crisis in the country.

He lambasted the PTI chairman for taking the country in a direction where democracy could be eliminated.

PM Shehbaz also criticised the PTI government on economic fronts such as arranging oil and gas supplies, maintaining power plants, managing the fiscal deficit and taking loans. He said it had “mortgaged future generations” with the number of loans it had taken.

The prime minister also rubbished Imran’s claims about the Cablegate affair and said Pakistan’s then-ambassador to the US had himself admitted that threatening language was used in the letter but “where was this element of conspiracy conjured from?”

PM Shehbaz said threats were made to Pakistan in the past as well and Pakistan and India regularly issued threats to each other “but is that conspiracy?”.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who spoke after PM Shehbaz, called Imran a “security risk” for the country and claimed that the former premier had come into power on an “agenda”.

He alleged that the PTI chairman had attacked every institution and component of society.

Referring to the previous PTI government, Asif said it was a tragedy that they used to say “we (the government and the army) are on the same page when it suited them even when constitutional institutions interfered or crossed their limits”.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 05

Bloodbath as PSX loses 1,447points The KSE 100-index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed bearish trend on Monday, losing 1,447.67 points, with a negative change of 3.23 per cent, closing at 43,393.14 points against 44,840.81 points on the last working day.

A total of 305,207,779 shares were traded during the day compared to the trade of 189,484,396 shares the previous day, whereas the price of shares stood at Rs9.238 billion against Rs5.661 billion on last trading day.

As many as 368 companies transacted shares in the stock market, 43 of them recorded gain and 311 sustained losses, whereas the share price of 14 companies remained unchanged.

The three top trading companies

were Lotte Chemical Pakistan Limited with a volume of 27,005,500 shares and price per share of Rs25.20, Cnergyico Pak with a volume of 23,858,892 and price per share of Rs5.56 and Worldcall Telecom Limited with volume of 20,795,000 and price per share of Rs1.57.

Murree Brewery witnessed a maximum increase of Rs18.95 per share, closing at Rs423.95 whereas the runner up was thal Ind. Crop., the share prices of which climbed up by Rs19.57 to Rs282.00.

Bhanero Tex. witnessed maximum decrease of Rs115.34 closing at Rs1,422.55 followed by Rafhan Maize, the share price of which declined by Rs850 to close at Rs10,750. app

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Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

NEWS

CJP bACKs suo MoTu on dePuTY sPeAKer’s rulIng, sAYs sC TerMed IT A ‘ConsTITuTIonAl MATTer’

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NewS DeSk

HIEF Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial said on Monday that the Supreme Court had taken suo motu notice of the parliamentary crisis last month after consultations were held between 12 SC judges, all of whom agreed that it was a “constitutional matter”.

On April 3, following then National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri’s dismissal of a no-confidence motion against then prime minister Imran Khan and the subsequent dissolution of the National Assembly, Justice Bandial had taken suo

motu notice of the matter. He had also made it clear that all orders and actions initiated by the prime minister and president regarding the dissolution of the National Assembly will be subject to the court’s order, which had eventually gone against the then government and restored the assembly.

The Supreme Court’s notice was criticised by the PTI lawmakers, with Fawad Chaudhry branding it “unfortunate”. The chief justice, however, maintained today that the notice was justified. “Everyone believed that it was a constitutional matter so notice should be taken.”

Justice Bandial made the remarks during the hearing of a presidential reference seeking

Malala Yousafzai responds to Taliban’s burqa imposition in Afghanistan AgeNcIeS Pakistan Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai Monday took an exception to the Afghan Taliban government’s order of forcing women to cover their faces in public, a return to a signature policy of their past hardline rule, and an escalation of restrictions that are causing anger at home and abroad. A decree from the group’s supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, said that if a woman did not cover her face outside the home her father or closest male relative would be visited and face potential prison or firing from state jobs. “We call on the world to co-operate with the Islamic Emirate and people of Afghanistan […] Don’t bother us. Don’t bring more pressure, because history is witness, Afghans won’t be affected by pressure,” Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, the minister for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, told a news conference.

In a hard-hitting statement released on Twitter, the education activist said the Taliban “want to erase girls and women from all public life in Afghanistan”.

Yousafzai said the Taliban wanted to keep girls out of school and women out of work, deny them the ability to travel without a male family member, and force them to cover their faces and bodies completely. “We must not lose our sense of alarm for Afghan women as the Taliban continue to break their promises. Even now, women are taking to the streets to fight for their human rights and dignity — all of us, and especially those from Muslim countries, must stand with them,” she said. Yousafzai asked leaders around the world to take collective action to hold the Taliban accountable for violating the human rights of millions of women and girls. The group has said the ideal face covering was the all-encompassing blue burqa — in reference to the garment that was obligatory for women in public during the Taliban’s previous 1996-2001 rule.

Most women in Afghanistan wear a headscarf for religious reasons but many in urban areas such as Kabul do not cover their faces. The Taliban has faced intense criticism from Western governments, but also by some religious scholars and Islamic nations, for limiting women’s rights including keeping girls’ high schools closed. The United Nations’ mission to Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement on Saturday that it would immediately seek meetings with the Taliban over the issue, adding it would consult with others in the international community on the implications of the ruling. “UNAMA is deeply concerned with today’s announcement by the Taliban de facto authorities […] this decision contradicts numerous assurances regarding respect for and protection of all Afghans’ human rights,” the statement said. The United States and others have already cut development aid and sanctioned the banking system since the group took over in August, pushing Afghanistan towards economic ruin.

the top court’s opinion on Article 63-A of the Constitution, which is related to the disqualification of lawmakers over defection.

A five-member bench, headed by the chief justice, and comprising Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel, Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, is hearing the reference. He further remarked that suo motu notice was taken at the bench’s discretion and not on anyone’s wishes.

At the start of the hearing today, the chief justice remarked that it was the court’s duty to protect the Constitution, adding that the interpretation of Article 63-A was essential for parliamentary democracy.

Justice Bandial said legal questions related to the Article were valid even after filing of references against dissident PTI lawmakers in the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

Justice Ahsan observed that all parties would be bound to respect the court’s decision.

The PML-N had earlier filed an application, requesting the court to put off the hearing till May 17 since the party’s counsel, Makhdoom Ali Khan, would be out of the country till then.

When the hearing resumed today, the chief justice directed that Khan be asked to return to the country sooner.

Meanwhile, PTI’s counsel, Babar Awan, said he wanted to assist the apex court in the case, adding that he “greatly respected” the court. Justice Mandokhail remarked that the same respect should be spread among the public. “Tell the people that the court also opens at night. The Balochistan High Court also opened at 2:30am.” Awan replied that it (having the public respect the judiciary) was the information ministry’s job, arguing that Articles 62 and 63 should be read together.

PTI, MQM-P engage in social media spat over Sindh governor’s appointment NewS DeSk After the coalition government made its long-awaited pick for the Sindh governor, the PTI criticised the selection of MQM-P’s nominee for the slot, Nasreen Jalil and it lead to a war of words between the two parties on social media.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday the summary to appoint Jalil as the Sindh governor to President Arif Alvi. Her appointment to the slot would make her the third female governor in the history of Pakistan.

The criticism over picking her was initiated by a tweet from former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry, saying that the “crime minister” has proposed the name

of Nasreen Jalil as Sindh governor.

Fawad claimed that Jalil had written to the Indian high commissioner on June 18, 2015, for “help” against Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies.

“It is unfortunate that the mess once cleared by security agencies from Karachi is coming back.” The PTI leader also attached a copy of the letter in his tweet.

Meanwhile, former Sindh governor Imran Ismail slammed the incumbent government over the decision too.

He also attached the same letter and wrote: “It seems like in order to be a part of the government, one must either be on bail or be an expert in vicious attacks on security agencies.”

MQM-P’s senior leader and Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Senator Faisal Subzwari snapped back

President Alvi approves Ashtar Ausaf’s appointment as attorney general

APP President Dr Arif Alvi on Monday approved the appointment of senior Supreme Court (SC) advocate, Ashtar Ausaf, as the attorney general of Pakistan (AGP), almost a month after Khalid Jawed Khan resigned from the post.

The attorney general is the

government’s primary lawyer in the apex court and is responsible for advising it on legal matters.

According to a statement issued by the President’s Office, Dr Alvi appointed Ausaf on the recommendation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif under Article 100(1) of the Constitution which states: “The president shall appoint a person, being a person

qualified to be a judge of the Supreme Court, to be the AGP.” On Saturday, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar had confirmed that a summary for Ausaf’s appointment had been forwarded to the president after approval from the premier.

Ausaf’s predecessor had resigned following the ouster of the Imran Khan-led government. The former AGP had told a group of reporters earlier this year that he had decided to resign soon after the retirement of Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed in February.

After the change of government last month, the new government led by coalition parties, mainly the PML-N, had started headhunting for a new AGP. Those considered for the top post included Ausaf, former law minister Zahid Hamid and senior lawyer Salman Akram Raja.

Ausaf, who earlier served as AGP from 2016 to 2018 and also served as law adviser to former premier Nawaz Sharif, is considered very close to the Sharif family.

at the criticism, claiming that the letter was sent to all embassies, the then prime minister, president, army chief and the chief justice of Pakistan.

“Does this [letter] prove one as an ‘Indian agent’?” he asked. He, however, admitted that it was a mistake not to exclude the name of Indian diplomat from the list of recipients.

Retweeting Ismail’s tweet, Sabzwari claimed that the letter had surfaced in 2015 and its contents were public, asking if the former prime minister Imran Khan and his associates came to know about this matter only after being removed from power.

He also censured Imran Khan for “torching electricity bills and calling for civil disobedience” in the past.

Zardari blasts Imran Khan for ‘attacking’ state institutions ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

Former president and PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari on Monday lashed out at former prime minister Imran Khan for “attacking the state institutions” after being ousted from the government through a no-confidence vote. In a statement, Zardari condemned the speeches made

by Imran and termed them a “vicious attempt” to avoid accountability. The PPP co-chair said Imran was afraid of the “corruption cases and foreign funding cases” against him, hence he had resorted to making the institutions “controversial to avoid punishment”. The former president also alleged that the ousted premier along with inciting hatred against the institutions on social media was trying to provoke people’s feelings through “fake conspiracy statements” in his rallies. Zardari said Pakistan regressed during the four-year rule of PTI, adding that the rhetoric being used by Imran “threatened” national security. “The Pakistan Army is not only the protector of Pakistan’s borders but the protection of the Constitution and democracy is also its responsibility,” the former president claimed. He added Imran was conspiring to divide the military, adding that the former premier also wanted to trample the Constitution through his actions. “Imran Khan calls others traitors yet he himself is playing the role of Mir Jaffar and Mir Sadiq by indulging in actions that would put the security of the country at stake,” he said, adding that Imran will pay for his actions.

Bilawal vows to carry forward Pakistan’s all weather strategic relationship with China ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Monday vowed to carry forward Pakistan’s all weather strategic friendly relations with Peoples Republic of China (PRC).

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Bilawal attended a high-level meeting of the Group of Friends of the GDI, where he emphasised the need to address challenges in order to support emergency actions to increase cooperation in public health and vaccine equity, ensure food security, enhance energy production, promote global green economy, stimulate trade and

industrialisation, and eliminate the digital divide. In his video address, the foreign minister urged the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative (GDI) to address the challenges faced by the developing world.

He appreciated China’s initiative to launch GDI and termed it a useful platform to accelerate and coordinate efforts for implementing the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Recalling the multiple crises posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and geopolitical developments, with disproportionate and devastating impacts on the Global South, the foreign minister expressed deep concern over the reversal of

progress in the implementation of SDGs,” the statement read.

Bilawal, noting that multiple crises have

enlarged the gap in financing for development, called upon the international community to mobilise adequate resources for SDGs and fulfill the commitment of providing at least $100 billion annually in climate finance.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to further strengthen its All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China, including through the rapid implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

“Pakistan will continue its efforts to enhance cooperation with China through CPEC, to advance its national implementation of SDGs, in addition to

participating actively in the work of the GDI Group of Friends to promote the common aspiration of a peaceful, prosperous and shared future for all mankind,” the Foreign Office said.

Meanwhile, President Xi Jinping of China put forward the Global Development Initiative during his address to the 76th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2021. In January 2022, China launched a Group of Friends of GDI in New York — which was joined by Pakistan and more than 50 other countries — as informal cooperation and coordination mechanism for strengthening policy dialogue, sharing best practices, and promoting practical cooperation on realising the SDGs to advance the objectives of GDI.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

PM shehbAZ IMPoses ‘CoMPleTe bAn’ on sugAr exPorT ISLAMABAD

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Staff RepoRt

RIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Monday to impose a “complete ban” on the export of sugar, owing to the commodity’s “domestic demand”.

“Given the domestic demand, I have ordered a complete ban on the export of sugar. There will be a [sic] strict action against smuggling and hoarding.

Absolutely zero tolerance [will be shown] for those found negligent in their duties,” the prime minister said in a tweet.

According to state-run Radio Pakistan, the ban on the commodity’s export is aimed at stabilising its price in the country.

“The prime minister asked the departments concerned to keep him

informed about [the] implementation of his orders. The officer[s] concerned and staff will be held accountable for any negligence,” the Radio Pakistan report said. Consumers have been complaining about the shortage of sugar and flour at utility stores since last month when the government had taken the initiative to reduce the prices of various food items in a bid to provide relief to the people during Ramazan.

According to media report, the shortage was particularly reported in Punjab, where utility stores had run out of sugar.

The report had quoted consumers as complaining that store administrations were conditioning sale and purchase of oil and sugar with other items and not providing single items to consumers.

Utility Stores Corporation staff later denied the allegation.

The consumers had demanded that

the government ensured the availability of sugar and other items at utility stores.

Utility Stores Corporation

spokesperson Sajid Rehman had told media at the time that the shortage was temporary due to rush at the stores.

Cement despatches decline by 28.6pc in April 2022 ghuLAM ABBAS Cement despatches declined by 28.6 percent in April 2022. Total cement despatches during April 2022 were 3.52 million tons against 4.94 Million tons despatched during the same month of last fiscal year.

According to the data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local cement despatches by the industry during the month of April 2022 were 3.37 million tons compared to 4.06 million tons in April 2021, showing reduction by 17.06 percent. Exports despatches also suffered massive decline by 82.15 percent as the volumes reduced from 877,163 tons in April 2021 to 156,613 tons in April 2022.

In April 2022, North based cement mills despatched 2.8 million tons cement in domestic markets showing a reduction of 16.93 percent against 3.3 million ton despatches in April 2021.

South based mills despatched 566,538 tons cement in local markets during April 2022 that was 17.68 percent less compared to the despatches of 688,239 tons during April 2021.

Exports from North based mills massively declined by 75.22 percent as the quantities reduced from 250,072 tons in April 2021 to 61,971 tons in April

2022. Exports from South also reduced by 84.91 percent to 94,642 tons in April 2022 from 627,091 tons during the same month last year.

During the first ten months of current fiscal year, total cement despatches (domestic and exports) were 44.3 million tons which is 8.22 percent lower than 48.27 million tons despatched during the corresponding period of last fiscal year. Further analysis indicate that domestic uptake

bitcoin falls to four-month low of $33,000 TLTP The cryptocurrency market crashed on Monday, with market capitalisation shedding 5.7 percent to reach $1.58 trillion as the rout in financial markets deepens amid increasing concerns of recession while slumping equity markets continue to hurt cryptocurrencies. As of 1130 hours GMT, the largest cryptocurrency Bitcoin’s (BTC) price dipped 5.3 percent to $33,000. With this decrease in price, the market capitalisation of the biggest crypto has reached $628.1 billion. Bitcoin has shed 14.5 percent of its value during the last seven days. This has been the lowest level of Bitcoin since January.

Ether (ETH), the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalisation, slipped 7.2 percent to $2,389. With this decrease in price, the market capitalisation of ETH has reached $288.5 billion.

ETH has been 15.7 percent down in the past seven days. Similarly, XRP price went down by 7.4 percent to reach $0.535. The market capitalisation of XRP stands at $25.9 billion with this decrease.

XRP has shed 12.2 percent of its value during the last seven days.

On the other hand, Cardano (ADA) price slipped by 12 percent to reach $0.661. Its market capitalisation has reached $22.4 billion with this decrease. ADA has shed 16.4 percent of its value in the past seven days. Similarly, Dogecoin (DOGE) price shed 8.2 percent to $0.116. With this decrease in price, the market capitalisation of DOGE has reached $15.4 billion. DOGE has shed 12.7 percent during the last seven days. On the other hand, Avalanche (AVAX) price dipped 11 percent to $48.55. With this decrease in price, the market capitalisation of AVAX has reached $13 billion. AVAX has shed 17.9 percent of its value during the last seven days. Meanwhile, leading US crypto exchange Coinbase has reportedly notified certain Russian customers that their accounts may be blocked at the end of this month. According to Russian media, the trading platform has offered them to withdraw their funds unless they prove they are not under sanctions.

reduced by 1.84 percent to 39.5 million tons from 40.24 million tons during July-April 2021 whereas exports during the same period declined by a massive 40.19 percent to 4.8 million tons from 8.02 million tons during July-April 2021.

North based Mills despatched 32.73 million tons cement domestically during the first ten months of current fiscal year showing a reduction of 3.73 percent than cement despatches of 34

million tons during July-April 2021.

Exports from North declined by 65.71 percent to 741,072 tons during JulyApril 2022 compared with 2.16 million tons exported during the same period last year.

Domestic despatches by South based Mills during July- April 2022 were 6.77 million tons showing an increase of 8.46 percent over 6.24 million tons cement despatched during the same period of last fiscal year.

There was however substantial decline of around 30.79 percent in exports from south zone as the volumes reduced to 4.05 million tons in the first ten months of current fiscal year from 5.86 million tons during corresponding period of last fiscal year.

As per a statement issued by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association, the association was concerned about continuous decline in industry despatches due to unstable business and economic situation prevailing in the country. The industry needs immediate relief from the government to reduce the cost of production and to increase its sales in domestic as well as international markets. It is the need of the hour to address industry issues in the coming budget and to formulate policies to increase capacity utilization.

NEWS

03

eCC approves revision of prices for atta, sugar ShAhzAD PArAchA The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has not only approved revision of prices of atta and sugar but also ordered a continued discount of Rs190 per kg on vegetable ghee. The Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Miftah Ismail presided over the meeting of ECC of the Cabinet. Ministry of Industries and Production submitted a summary on revision of the prices of atta and sugar under the Ramzan relief package-2022. In order to provide continuous relief to the lower strata of the society from global inflationary pressure, the ECC granted approval to revision of prices of atta and sugar from Rs950 per 20 kg to Rs800 per 20 kg, Rs85 per kg to Rs70 per kg respectively and also ordered that discount of Rs190 per kg on vegetable ghee will be continued. Government will continue to absorb the cost of subsidies for the benefit of the common man. On another summary submitted by Ministry of Industries and Production on continuation of Prime Minister’s Relief Package 2020 for the months of May and June, 2022 it was decided that because there is already stock available at the Utility Store Corporation (USC) for selling the commodities at cheaper rate of Ramzan relief package, therefore the ECC directed the USC to continue to sell commodities at Ramzan relief package prices.

Fbr reduces import quota for industries in tribal districts AzIz BuNerI Former Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Dr. Ashfaq has issued new CGOs [Customs General Orders] before his transfer, reducing the import quota for industries in tribal districts. Under the order crude imports of ghee, steel and plastic industries in tribal districts and former provincial administered Tribal areas (PATA) have reduced which led to increase in the price of these commodities. Chairman FBR Dr. Ashfaq issued Sales Tax General Order No.14 of 2022 on April 16, 2022 and directed reduction in import of raw materials for the industry of FATA and PATA, which led to increase in prices of ghee, steel and plastic products.

Currently, more than one thousand raw material vehicles are parked at Adzakhel dry port as the clearance process has been stopped, creating further problems for industrialists in tribal areas. As soon as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took over the charge, FBR Chairman Dr. Ashfaq was transferred but before leaving the office, he issued CGOs which affected the industrial productivity in merged districts, leading to higher unemployment. Industry owners of FATA and PATA demanded PM Sharif to declare the CGOs issued

by Dr. Ashfaq illegal and fulfill the promise of sales tax and income tax exemptions for industries in backward areas, including FATA and PATA till June 2023. The industrialists said the tribal districts are already facing difficulties due to distance from the sea and unavailability of infrastructure. In this regard, the top officials of FBR Regional Office Peshawar have claimed that the industries of the tribal districts are importing more duty free items which are required due to which CGOs were issued. Industrialists of Malakand, Khyber, Mohmand, Swat and Dir have also challenged the FBR’s CGOs, saying that relief provided by the federal government cannot be withdrawn on FBR order.

Experts’ trust in RMB rebounds despite Covid-19 scare ISLAMABAD Staff RepoRt

Pakistani experts believe that depreciation burdens on RMB have reduced due to more robust economic growth and rising foreign exchange reserves in China, while the current devaluation is due to the latest pandemic outbreak in different key cities of China.

Shan Saeed, Chief Economist at Juwai IQI told media that in the last 37 days, RMB has depreciated 4% against USD, and western media continue to feel worried about its outlook.

“With $3.2 trillion of foreign reserves, macroeconomic stability in China is coming back.

I’m confident in Yuan to bounce back despite challenging global economic fragility. China’s economic growth in recent years makes the Yuan an attractive currency for investors,” he added.

“Economic growth has given strength to Yuan, and the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) has played an important role in maintaining the structural stability of the Yuan,” he mentioned.

He further said that many economies have started moving their trade and commerce in Yuan, which is well positioned to become the currency for the emerging markets.

“At Juwai IQI Global, we expect RMB to maintain stable against USD and to trade between 6.39 and 6.77 in 2022. The GDP growth outlook remains positive and is expected to meander around 4.7% to 5.3% in the current year,” Shan stated.

Shan believes that China would continue to

make economic progress and lead the world with a solid growth outlook and per capita income, adding that China will become one of the top economies by 2025 and China takes the driving seat.

Sheikh Muhammad Shariq, Vice President of the National Bank of Pakistan and Chief Representative in China told that the current depreciation of the Chinese Yuan is due to COVID-19 that affected the economy, especially after the outbreak in Shanghai, which caused to stop or slow down many trade activities including imports and exports from Pakistan as Shanghai port is one of the busiest ports of the world.

“China’s economy might face some difficulties due to the latest COVID-19 outbreak and the reducing of economic growth target this year which is 5.5% less than the previous year.

But I’m confident that the Chinese economy is expected to maintain its resilience and likely to meet its annual growth target,” Shariq stated.

He further said that World Bank and IMF also reduced the world growth target and China is one of the main stakeholders and key growth drivers of the world, and these are the reasons for the temporary depreciation of the Yuan.

He said that today China’s central bank conducted $1.49 billion of reverse to maintain liquidity in the banking system.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

04 NewS

LHCBA CritiCizes Pti fOr ‘HuMiLiAting’ judiCiAry

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NEWS DESK

HE Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA) on Monday criticised former prime minister Imran Khan and Governor Punjab Umar Sarfraz Cheema for their alleged ‘humiliating’ remarks against the judiciary.

The LHCBA’s representatives addressed a press conference on the LHC premises and stated that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) disparaging remarks were not warranted in the guise of filing ‘reference’ against the judiciary.

The LHCBA’s president Sardar Akbar Ali Dogar stated that if the PTI’s rhetoric remained unchanged, the legal community would call a lawyer’s convention across the province and file constitutional petitions at all forums. The legal fraternity added that they would restrain the party from developing a tendency to lambast sitting judges at

public gatherings and rallies.

“We are with the judges and will not let PTI speak against them,” he warned.

In reference to the Punjab governor’s statement of filing reference against the LHC’s Justice Jawad Hassan, president Dogar stated that such a sentiment was tantamount to threatening a judge.

“These threats are being imposed to file a reference against an LHC judge who had ordered the speaker of the national assembly to administer the oath to the newly elected Chief Minister of Punjab Hamza Shehbaz Sharif”, the LHCBA president said.

President Dogar maintained that the PTI has the right to file an appeal against a decision, rather than inciting hate toward the judges.

He further lamented that the “courts are good if decisions come in favour of the PTI and the courts are good when Nawaz Sharif is

Pakistan registers first case of Omicron sub-variant ISLAMABAD agencieS

The National Institute of Health (NIH) announced on Monday that the first case of Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1 had been detected in Pakistan.

The institute — which has been looking after Covid-related matters since the National Command and Operation Centre was formally shut down — said the sub-variant was causing an “increasing number of cases in different countries”.

“The best preventive measure (besides mask-wearing at crowded places) is Covid-19 vaccination.

We strongly recommended getting vaccinated and all those due for boosters must get the shots immediately,” the institute added. The new Omicron sub-variant is a descendant of the earlier supercontagious “stealth Omicron” and has quickly gained ground in the United States. BA.2.12.1 was responsible for 29 per cent of new US Covid-19 infections in April’s third week, according to data reported by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. And it caused 58pc of reported infections in the New York region. The variant has been detected in at least 13 other countries, but the US has the highest levels of it so far. Scientists say it spreads even faster than stealth Omicron.

The development comes as Pakistan is witnessing a decrease in the number of Covid-19 cases which have dropped significantly during the past few weeks. Less than 100 Covid-19 cases have been reported on a daily basis since April 27, with the country reporting only 64 cases on Monday.

sent home, but in the very next moment the courts are bad if decisions come against the PTI”.

Responding to the former premier’s inquisition as to “why the courts had been opened at night”,

he added that the courts do not have fixed timings, reminding the former PM that the courts had also been open on Sundays during the former Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar’s era.

The bar strongly condemned the PTI’s statements, as representatives were also present at the occasion.

Earlier today, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice

Athar Minallah sought a response from former prime minister Imran Khan over whether he had confidence over the courts or not.

The IHC CJ refused to conduct the hearing, stating that the advocate, Faisal Chaudhry, must first ask the party leadership whether they trusted the court.

“The narrative that the Supreme Court and the high courts are compromised is still being spread,” Justice Minallah observed. “This court can work for 24 hours a day,” he said, asking if the petitioner had any objection with the court that the court may look into.

CJ Minallah criticised the rhetoric of the ousted government, reminding that it was the same court that provided relief to the PTI at 11pm during the 2014 sit-in.

“If you have the slightest doubt that the high court and the Supreme Court were compromised, let me know,” the high court justice reiterated.

Students, faculty unable to attend morning classes as KU reopens KARACHI newS DeSk

A large number of students and faculty at the University of Karachi (KU) were stuck in traffic and unable to attend morning classes in time on Monday after poor security measures resulted in hundreds of vehicles lining up at the university’s various entrance gates.

The varsity had opened up for the first day following the April 25 suicide attack on a van carrying the Confucius Institute’s faculty. Three Chinese teachers and a Pakistani driver were killed in the attack.

As the university reopened, poor security administration led to long queues at the Silver Jubilee Gate,

causing a gridlock on the main University Road, as officials checked identification cards and searched vehicles. Students lined up to get their ID cards checked, while staff employed at banks and post office branches inside the university awaited their turn in a queue, arriving at their offices later than the official time.

A similar situation was witnessed at the varsity’s Maskan Gate entrance as commuters got stuck in a traffic jam around the Maskan Chowrangi and Abul Hassan Isfahani Road.

The paramilitary force was eventually called to intervene and clear the traffic after the situation spiralled out of control. A student said that his first class could not be held because his teacher was also stuck in traffic

and could not reach the department on time.

Another student, Zeeshan, said that he was standing at the Silver Jubilee Gate while his class was taking place inside. “We have exams starting on May 17, if this situation continues, I will have to leave my house for the university at 6am so I can reach the exam room on time,” the student added.

A security official said that they had suggested to the university’s administration to allow entry points at Silver Jubilee Gate and Maskan Gate in order to avoid traffic. However, the university reportedly ignored the advice, “causing a serious disorder in the morning that upset everyone visiting the university,” the official added.

No flour crisis in KP: clarifies Atif Khan

Minister pledges to resolve issues of tractor industry, tech sector LAHORE Staff RepoRt

PESHAWAR Staff RepoRt

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Minister for Food Atif Khan has denied the rumours of flour crisis in the province.

In a statement issued on Monday, the provincial food minister said that there is sufficient quantity of wheat flour available in the markets of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Atif Khan asked people not to pay heed to rumours as the government is committed to fulfil the basic needs of its people. He asked the administration to keep a vigilant

eye on hoarders of wheat, flour and other edible items.

Meanwhile, KP Minister for Education Shahram Khan Tarakai said that health and education have been the priority areas of the provincial government for the last nine years.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of Inter Schools debate competition in Peshawar on Monday, he said two point six million children are being provided furniture in the schools.

The minister said the recruitment process of twentyfive thousand teachers on merit is also underway.

Saba Qamar, Bilal Saeed acquitted in video shoot case at Wazir Khan mosque LAHORE Staff RepoRt

A sessions court on Monday acquitted actor Saba Qamar and singer Bilal Saeed in a case concerning the alleged desecration of Wazir Khan mosque, ruling that the charges against them were “groundless”.

Additional Sessions Judge Malik Muhammad Mushtaq set aside the order passed by a judicial magistrate on March 2, stating that it was “not sustainable in the eyes of the law” and accepted Qamar and Saeed’s acquittal pleas. In March, a judicial magistrate had dismissed their acquittal applications in the same case after which they had filed an appeal in the sessions court. In an eight-page detailed verdict released today, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, Judge Mushtaq said the investigating officer did not find any evidence to suggest that the two intentionally damaged, defiled or disrespected the place of worship. “Rather, they being artists, joined the shooting with prior permission from the Auqaf department and religious affair[s] department, government of Punjab, Lahore,” the verdict said.

The judge added that the requisite fee

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was deposited before the recording took place at the mosque while the entire shoot occurred under the supervision of the department concerned and according to the terms and conditions of the license obtained from the Auqaf department. “During the investigation of the case, no music player was taken into possession,” the judge observed, adding that all the witnesses were not present at the alleged place of occurrence and had seen the clip on social media. “So nothing has come on surface that [the] petitioners played any song at the place of worship, therefore, in my view the charge against the petitioners would be said as groundless, and when the charge would be groundless, there would be no need [for] the trial of the case,” the judge said.

Qamar and Saeed became the centre of criticism in August 2020 after it emerged that they had shot footage inside the historic mosque while working on the video of a song. Subsequently, Akbari Gate police had registered a case against the duo under Section 295 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) following a court’s direction to act on an application filed by Advocate Sardar Farhat Manzoor Khan as per the law and decide whether a cognisable offence was made out.

Federal Minister for Industries and Production Syed Murtaza Mahmud has promised to discuss the issues being faced by the tractor industry and technology sector with relevant ministries so as to resolve them at the earliest.

The minister expressed these views in separate meetings at the office of Millat Tractors Limited (MLT) and Airlink Communication Limited, a smartphone manufacturing facility at Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, Kot Lakhpat, on Monday. During a meeting with Millat Group Chairman Sikander Mustafa Khan, Chief Executive Officer Irfan Aqueel and senior directors, the minister was informed about the issues being faced by the tractor industry, especially the latest SRO 563, which was feared to force closure of the industry. Murtaza was apprised that the MTL had a market share of more than 60 per cent which represents its customers’ satisfaction and trust in its quality, while the company has also expanded its products range. The minister appreciated the MLT efforts for achieving more than 90 percent deletion level in tractors, resulting in saving of precious foreign exchange reserves.

Meanwhile, during a meeting with Airlink Communication Limited Chairman Aslam Hayat Piracha and CEO Muzzaffar Hayat Piracha, Murtaza Mahmud said that technology has great importance in economic growth of any country. The government is focused on incentivising local manufacturing for creating employment opportunities and promoting exports, he added. Mahmud said, “We want to take the country forward by ensuring sustainable economic growth and companies like AirLink are playing their part in bringing innovation and global leading brands to Pakistan. This is exactly the kind of growth we want to see in future.”

Muzzaffar H. Piracha said, “We are focused on strengthening local manufacturing in Pakistan.

Our main goal is to export smartphones from Pakistan which will change the game all together on a bigger scale.” AirLink’s manufacturing facility has created thousands of jobs and encouraged R&D (research and development) culture and innovation in the industry, he added.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KaRaChI

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AIOU hosts CINVU general assembly on May 11 IsLAmAbAd: Allama Iqbal Open University is hosting the third general assembly meeting of COMSTECH Inter Islamic Network on Virtual Universities (CINVU) being held on May 11 and 12. Vice Chancellor, AIOU, Prof.r Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, who is also the president of the Executive Committee, CINVU will chair this important meeting.

Secretary General, CINVU, Dr Karim Najafi Barzegar, delegates from Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Indonesia, Chad (Africa), Gabon (Africa), Afghanistan, and Vice chancellors, rectors and seasoned academicians will also participate online in this event. The first General Assembly of CINVU was held in Iran, second in Turkey and now AlOU is hosting the third meeting of General Assembly of CIMVU. University has completed the preparations for this historic event. This year, the focus of this general assembly will be on exploring new educational opportunities, especially in the field of skills-based training and virtual skillsenhancement workshops, identify challenges in the field of educational empowerment, strengthen specialized committees and define new missions. VC, AIOU, Prof. Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum said that this conference will be an important milestone in the promotion of education in Pakistan and other brotherly Islamic countries. (Directorate of Public Relations) pr

Karachi is warming up faster than the global average, warn experts Since 1960, Karachi’s temperature has increased by 2.4ºC at night and 1.6ºC during the day, which is much higher than the global average increase in temperature, reveals a new alarming report.

The report titled, “Designed to Fail? Heat Governance in Urban South Asia: The Case of Karachi”, studies the city’s changing weather pattern using data from the last 60 years.

While Pakistan is the eighth most vulnerable country in the world to climate change, the report states that its southern province of Sindh is in fact one of South Asia’s “hotspots” for global warming.

“In regions such as South Asia, temperatures have already reached levels that are higher than what is considered biologically livable,” the researchers note.

This year, Pakistan experienced its hottest and driest month of March and April since 1961, as per the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

Many cities in the country broke historical records of heat, with the temperature in Sindh’s Jacobabad reaching 49ºC in only April.

Officials have warned of more heatwaves in May in the country, advising people to stay indoors.

Karachi, Pakistan’s most populous city, is located within the zone of “ultraviolent” radiation, the report adds.

The city of 16 million experienced a heatwave in 2015, which left 1,181 people dead, and was considered the fifth deadliest heatwave recorded in global history across South Asia.

“Heat must be understood as a slow onset disaster,” the researchers explain, adding that as per some studies Pakistan’s average temperatures will increase 2.5–2.8°C by the 2050s, and 3.9–4.4°C by the 2080s.

Yet, no serious effort is being made to record the impact of heat in the country, the report notes.

Karachi, it adds, has only three state-operated weather stations, out of which two are at military bases, with restricted data sharing.

Then, the rapid decline in green spaces in the city is also contributing to the rise in temperatures.

“Studies suggest that between 1992 and 1999, there was a 23% decline of green space in Karachi, with a further 18% decline between 1999 and 2009,” the report notes, adding that the clearance of mangroves, coupled with land reclamation for urban development, has made the metropolis vulnerable to flooding and global warming.

“Mangrove forests have an indirect relationship with heat,” the study states, “as mangroves act as storehouses for greenhouse gases.”

The report further adds that official planners insist on a “Dubai aesthetic” for the city, which is not suitable for the climate zone Karachi is in. Most of the tree cover is replaced by date palms, which are water-guzzling, and fast-growing exotic species, such as the Conocarpus that exacerbates asthma and causes respiratory problems. news desk

IHC sUMMONs PIA HR CHIef OVeR NON-eNGINeeRs’ ReCRUItMeNt iSLAmABAd

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HE Islamabad High Court (IHC) has summoned the executive director human resources of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in person in connection with a plea challenging the legality of non-engineers’ appointment in the engineering department.

Justice Aamer Farooq expressed dismay over lacklustre response of the national flag carrier during the hearing of the case on Monday.

During January this year, the Islamabad High Court stayed non-engineering staff employment for engineering slots in the national flag carrier till final adjudication of a plea challenging merit violation in filling vacant posts of engineers.

It is pertinent to mention that earlier on November 08, 2021, the court has sought a reply from the federal government in response to the plea challenging legality of non-engineering staff employment for engineering slots in Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

Advocate Umer Gilani has made the federation

of Pakistan through the secretary Ministry of Aviation, Pakistan International Airlines Corporation through its chief executive officer and Pakistan Engineering Council through its registrar as respondents on behalf of his client Engr Mian Khuram Ahsan.

Filing a civil miscellaneous application before the court in the matter, Advocate Gilani submitted that earlier on November 8, 2021, after hearing preliminary arguments of the petitioner, the court had issued notices to the respondents and sought specific comments from PIA within a fortnight. He apprised the single-member bench of Justice Aamer Farooq that on the next hearing of the case on December 2, 2021 the court accepted request of the PIA for more time to file comment in the matter. Gilani further submitted that the PIA failed to furnish the reply saying almost a month after the expiry of the court’s deadline, the comments have not been filed by the PIA till date.

In the main petition, the petitioner’s counsel has contended that the PIA is employing a very large number of non-engineers at the posts of ‘aircraft engineer’, adding that one out of eight chief engineers, 25 out of 53 deputy chief engineers and 334 out 476

PM Shehbaz assails Imran Khan for ‘spewing poison’ against state institutions cOntinuEd fROm pAgE 01 “As long as Pindi supported them (PTI), it was everything for them but today, we are being accused of coming into power through a foreign conspiracy and are being called an imported government. But I can say with full surety that this person (Imran) is bent on destroying all constitutional institutions.”

Asif claimed that Imran had used three cards — religion, targeting the United States and using the country’s traditional rivalry with India — when he saw his power being threatened.

“He (Imran) wants to wreck

and disrupt the process of restoring constitutional supremacy. He sullied religion, politics and decency. He taught people how to hurl expletives.

He tore apart all the traditions of this society. And now he wants to go after an institution that is the protector of this country. He has tried several times within the last few months to drive cracks into that same institution,” the defence minister thundered.

He further claimed that Imran had tried to damage the country’s ideological, territorial and all other defences. Imran, his close associates and ministers earned money through cor-

ruption during the previous government’s tenure, he alleged.

Later, the parliament passed a unanimous resolution in condemnation to Imran Khan’s statements against the state institutions and expressed solidarity with the armed forces of the country.

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Javed Abbasi tabled the resolution which was backed by all parties present in the National Assembly. It may be mentioned here that PTI, which is the largest party in the National Assembly, has already tendered en-mass resignations in protest to the election of Shehbaz Sharif.

Railways CEO tasks officers with specific timelines LAHORE: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pakistan Railways Farrukh Taimur Ghilzai presided over an important meeting at the Railways Headquarters Lahore on Monday in which the officers were given tasks to implement the orders of the Federal Minister for Railways.

The Chief Executive Officer directed the Railway Officers not to compromise on passenger safety, facilities and punctuality. If we can get 100% punctuality on Eid then it is possible to do the same in other

days, he said. "We will achieve our revenue target for this financial year," he added.

Farrukh Taimur Ghilzai urged the concerned officers to ensure uninterrupted supply of water in the washrooms of passenger trains and directed them that no compromise should be made on the cleanliness of railway stations. In this regard, there should be satisfactory cleaning arrangements in trains as well, he said. The CEO further said that all possible steps should be taken for

the convenience of passengers at the stations.

He directed the DS workshop to ensure timely supply of coaches so that the operation would not be affected. In addition, arrangements should be made to install dining cars along with express trains as soon as possible and instruct the Chief Electrical Engineer to ensure optimal supply of air conditioners, fans and lights in the vehicles.

The CEO also directed all DSs to set up passenger help desks at major railway stations.

FIA officer investigating mega corruption cases passes away LAHORE news desk

Former FIA Lahore chief Dr Muhammad Rizwan, who was investigating several high-profile corruption cases against political bigwigs, passed away following a cardiac arrest in Lahore on Monday.

Dr Rizwan was a resident of Lahore’s Johar Town and was known as one of the most honest and upright police officers.

The newly-elected PML-N-led government last month replaced Dr Rizwan with Additional Director Abu Bakar Khuda Baksh as head of the joint investigation team (JIT) probing the sugar crisis.

Dr Rizwan had not only supervised the crackdown

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against the sugar mafia responsible for shortage of the commodity but also carried out investigations against PTI disgruntled leader Jahangir Tareen and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The officer was not only personally overseeing registration of cases against influential sugar mills owners and speculators but was also analysing data and evidence received from the State Bank of Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other departments.

According to sources, the JIT led by Dr Rizwan had been threatened as well as offered bribes but it had continued its crackdown against the sugar mafia and the process of collection of evidence.

While serving as SSP of Sindh’s Shikarpur, Dr Rizwan revealed in the investigation report that PPP

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ministers Imtiaz Sheikh and Saeed Ghani’s brother Farhan Ghani were involved in serious crimes, such as robbery, kidnapping, murder and drug dealing. After the report, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had ordered an inquiry against the senior cop.

He also investigated the Naqibullah murder case in which he had faced all kinds of pressure and was eventually removed from the post.

Former prime minister Imran Khan expressed sorrow over the passing of the senior officer saying: “Saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Rizwan one of the most upright & courageous officers who withstood pressure while investigation & preparing the Rs16b money laundering case against ‘Crime Minister SS’ [PM Shehbaz]. My condolences & prayers go to his family.”

aircraft engineers, are non-engineers performing duties with PIA at the moment.

“In stark violation of this law and going against the general principles of merit, the national flag carrier is appointing such persons whose only educational qualification is Matric and who, in many cases started out as ‘helpers’ and ‘cleaners and eventually rose through the ranks through organisational politics,’ Advocate Gilani has told the bench. After hearing arguments of the lawyer in the matter, Justice Aamer Farooq of the IHC sought reply from the PIA and held that any appointments made during proceedings will remain subject to the outcome of the case.

Hearing of the matter was adjourned till May 2022.

As the PIA has already submitted a response in the case but no representative of the national flag carrier appeared in the matter on Monday to which Justice Aamer Farooq expressed displeasure observing that the PIA counsel failed to turn up in such an important issue. Later, the court issued notices to the executive director Human Resources of the PIA to appear in person in the matter and adjourned the hearing till June.

Denigration of national institutions prime task of PML-N government: Governor Punjab LAHORE: Governor Punjab Umar Sarfraz Cheema has said that denigration of the national institutions is prime task of the incumbent PML-N government.

Taking to his twitter handle on Monday, the Punjab Governor questioned how those having mentality of looting national exchequer, remained involved in attack on Supreme Court, have role in Memogate and Dawn Leaks could be well-wishers of the country and masses?

Umar Sarfraz Cheema said that such elements had key role in foreign conspiracies as national exchequer looted by them was in the custody of their foreign masters.

He said that these elements hatch conspiracies to weaken national institutions so as to use them for their political and personal interest without any fear of being taken to the task by concerned institutions. inp

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Tuesday, 10 May, 2022

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Shifting’ of prayer times in Ramadan

Imran Khan takes recourse to parables Campaign against state institutions

On commendable administrative decisions

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he army deserves respect because it defends the country’s geographical borders providing security to the people. It also secures the country from terrorists. scores of army men die every year in the line of duty. It is on account of their sacrifices that the rest of their countrymen have the satisfaction of being protected.

This said, there is also a flip side of the affair. Army generals with Bonapartist tendencies have thrice overthrown civilian governments, violated human rights and mismanaged economy, while two of them made the country fight wars on the behest of the Us with dire consequences for both the civilian population and the army. During the quasi democratic 1990’s money was distributed at the behest of an army chief among one set of politicians to defeat a party not liked by the establishment. one agrees with the IsPR on the need to keep the armed forces out of political discourse in the “best interest of the country”. one can also understand that the army takes ‘strong exception’ to attempts made to drag its leadership in political discourse. For nearly three years the PTI government followed pernicious economic policies, allowed mafias to plunder the country and persecuted its political opponents while reminding every now and then that the government and establishment were on the same page. There was no attempt on the part of the concerned quarters to distance themselves from the policies. A group of duly approved retired army officers were tuned into media commentators who regularly tom-tommed PTI’s policies and defended Imran Khan.

The social media campaign against the army and its leadership has been launched by the erstwhile PTI favourites who had been spoilt by over-indulgence. They think that the PTI’s allies as well as a number of party’s dissenters parted company with their government at the behest of the establishment leading to a successful no confidence move and the fall of Imran Khan’s government. Used to responding to their political opponents with coarse language, they are using the same vocabulary while referring to their erstwhile patrons. The misuse of social media to launch a vituperative campaign against the army leadership is unfortunate and needs to be urgently stopped.

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hose who regularly pray the congregational fajr prayer know that on the first day of Ramadan the prayer shifts abruptly – by as much as three quarters of an hour (or even more) depending upon the time of the year – to an earlier time slot. And as soon as Ramadan ends it shifts again, this time moving forward by the same amount, allowing for the incremental adjustments to cater for the changing lengths of the day. Those who are accustomed to observing optional fasts (outside Ramadan) know that these shifts in the fajr prayer time have no bearing on imsak time (the moment when they must conclude their sahur). This can be a source of considerable confusion because there are those who have a hard time reconciling the inconsistent gaps between imsak and the call for prayer (azan) during Ramadan and during any other month. one takes a big stride towards clearing this confusion the moment one understands that the azan and the imsak are two fundamentally distinct items. Imsak is the precise time when, in the words of the Quran, the white thread of dawn becomes distinct from the black thread (of night) – the so-called subh sadiq – and is listed in payer tables under the column entitled ‘fajr’. The fajr prayer can be performed soon after this time (allowing for the azan) but before sunrise. Inside this window, when exactly to conduct the prayer is an administrative and/or jurisprudential matter. During Ramadan, it stands to reason to make the azan and the imsak to coincide, with the congregational prayer typically commencing twenty or so minutes later. Be-

New beginnings …and hopefully, endings

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ND it finally begins. The National Assembly has started its first session following the change in government. This is unchartered territory, because the change in dispensation hasn’t been because of an election; the chamber and its members remain the same. only alliances within the assembly have shifted, which have yielded a new leader of the house and, of course, a different bloc within the house that now sits on the treasury benches.

The problem, of course, is that it is all treasury benches now. The erstwhile ruling party’s members have tendered their resignations. Yes, 22 dissidents from within the PTI still remain in the assembly and, since there was no need for them to cross the floor, so to speak, they are the claimants of the opposition benches. But the problem with that is that the dissidents, depending on what the supreme Court rules on 63-A, will also shift over to the treasury. If they don’t, they’re still going to be treasury members, in effect.

That doesn’t make for a lopsided house, it makes for an incomplete house. This is a state of affairs that doesn’t bode well for the legislative process or even the executive branch of the government either, given how the lack of a functional parliament won’t provide an effective pressure valve to the polity.

Matters are worse in the Punjab Assembly, where a ruling on 63-A is far more crucial. The chief minister’s father tallied the required numbers from the erstwhile government’s coalition members in the NA without getting a single PTI member. The CM, on the other hand, definitely needs to poach members of the PTI. It is the CM who has said, on a number of occasions now, that the time is right to get a fresh mandate from the people. Perhaps that is the only way out of the impasse at the moment. It is time for the government coalition to undo the amendments made to the election process by the previous dispensation, as has been its principled stance, and then to call for fresh elections.

Ummar ZiaUddin

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he Bar Councils and Associations are not a political movement. established pursuant to The Legal Practitioners and Bar Council Act, 1973; the bodies of the lawyers do not have a mandate to act as self-proclaimed guardians of the Constitution and vanguards upholding the rule of law. The enabling Act spells out the functions, and the scope, these bodies can perform. our Bar Councils, for instance, have been established to admit persons as advocates on its rolls and maintain the common rolls, hold examination for the purposes of admission, make inquiries and determinations on the conduct of lawyers, safeguard the rights, privileges and interests of advocates, manage the funds, promote and suggest law reforms and conduct the elections of its members etc. There is no provision in law that allows the lawyers’ bodies to make political comments or critique the role of coordinate branches.

The legislative history of the The Legal Practitioners and Bar Council Act, 1973 is an interesting one. A specific section 59A was introduced on 15.07.1982 that prohibited the Bar Councils and Associations from indulging in any political activity.

This section was later removed on 28.08.1987.

The absence of an express prohibition in law now is certainly not a license for the lawyers’ bodies to slide into a political thicket - especially when their functions are enlisted in the enabling Act. Nor do our Bar Councils and Associations claim that they draw the power from the enabling Act to issue edicts on political questions. They argue that they don’t need a statutory sanction for it. It is more of a divine right argument they peddle - as they claim to embody the collective conscience of the society and they must intervene, they say, as an interest group in greater national interest. These arguments, we know all too well, to act arbitrarily, have been levered by all usurpers of the text of the Constitution;

Founding Editor

Yousaf Nizami Umar Aziz

Joint Editor

Joint Editor

Executive Editor

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

The author is a connoisseur of music, literature, and food (but not drinks). He can be reached at www.facebook.com/hasanaftabsaeed

Use of bars to further political ambitions

Arif Nizami (Late)

M. A. Niazi

These are commendable examples of administrative decisions (within the boundaries allowed by the Quran and Sunnat) aimed at public convenience. Any critics would be well within their rights to disagree with a particular administrative call, especially if they bring sound arguments to support their position.

Misdirected legal compass

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Editor Aziz-ud-Din Ahmad

cause most people have been up for quite a while – for sahur if not longer still for tahajjud – so if there is a big gap between imsak and the fajr prayer, they may be tempted to go to sleep before performing fajr.

What is more, in this case there is no confusion regarding imsak: one simply stops eating as soon as one hears the azan.

The association between the azan and the imsak is so deeply engraved in the layman’s consciousness that it is a safe bet that if the azan is not made to coincide with imsak, most people would continue eating till they hear the azan, thereby inadvertently invalidating their fast. Nothing is more illustrative of this persistent notion about the correlation between the two than the perpetual debate regarding whether it is permissible to eat and drink during the azan. A fascinating aside: An Abu-Dawood narration is usually pressed into service to prove the permissibility of finishing eating from the plate that is in one’s hand when one hears the azan. This narration has nothing whatsoever to do with Ramadan or even the fajr prayer. It is general advice for any prayer and makes all the sense in the world, for a hungry man is hardly in the right state of mind for the prayer, as is the man who needs to use the restroom. hence the inadvisability of leaving one’s food and rushing to pray immediately upon hearing the azan, instead of finishing what is in one’s plate and then approaching the prayer so that one can concentration on it. If there are words that have the capacity to praise the wisdom of the Prophet (peace be upon him), at least I am unaware of them. With this admission, let me again pick up the thread of the discussion about the fajr timing where we left it in the last paragraph. once Ramadan is over, the situation could not be more different from that prevailing during the fasting month. Few are up at such an early hour; and the office and business hours being what they are, it is infinitely more convenient for people to be able to get sleep at a stretch before proceeding to

their daily affairs, than being forced to sleep in two instalments. outside Ramadan therefore, it makes a lot of sense to perform fajr later, which entails a corresponding delay in the azan. since few are fasting, overstepping imsak time is not an overriding concern anymore.

As a similar administrative step, the congregational maghrib prayer in Ramadan is arranged to commence about fifteen minutes after the azan (again making use of the permissible window for the maghrib prayer) to enable people to reach the mosque in time after breaking their fasts. outside Ramadan, the gap between the maghrib azan and the start of prayer is hardly five minutes.

These are commendable examples of administrative decisions (within the boundaries allowed by the Quran and sunnat) aimed at public convenience. Any critics would be well within their rights to disagree with a particular administrative call, especially if they bring sound arguments to support their position. Administrative judgments are based on expected benefits to the public and almost always involve weighing of pros against cons. Man is notorious for erring in such matters; moreover, something that is deemed well-advised for a given time and place could easily leave much to be desired in another setting.

The good thing about administrative judgments is that they can always be revised. however, there have always been those too who, as a matter of policy, take an unfavourable view of any convenience when it comes to the religious domain. Which is unfortunate because it is patently contrary to the spirit of the famous prophetic narration according to which one should make matters easy, and not difficult, for people (within the elbowspace provided by Allah, of course). The Quran too, on multiple occasions, states explicitly that Allah merely intends to purify man, and not to burden him on account of his religion.

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Karachi – Ph: 021-35381208-9

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and by every justice in the robes who abused his exalted station.

The bigger issue around the debate of political involvement is the optics of it. once the lawyers’ bodies indulge in political activities, it is hard for them not to appear partisan. The Islamabad Bar Council issued a press release on 07.05.2022 criticizing the role of Governor Punjab and his letter to the army chief. The press release added “…the conduct of the Governor is unbecoming of the constitutional office he holds…”. In the past, the sindh high Court Bar Association carried a resolution on 04.04.2022 condemning the “President’s unconstitutional and mala fide dissolution of assemblies on the advice of the Prime Minister…”. The supreme Court Bar Association has not even bothered to disassociate itself from the political posturing of its president.

The lawyers’ bodies issued no press release when the members defected in Islamabad and Lahore or when the suo motu was taken by the supreme Court on a sunday, or when Mr shahbaz sharif and Maulana Fazal ul Rehman conducted a presser right after the suo motu notice was taken in which they stated they would not accept a decision couched in the doctrine of necessity - threatening a nationwide strike if that were to happen. Was it not an obstruction of justice.

And was the rule of law not undermined then? Presuming their fidelity to the Constitution, Bars also did

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

not issue press releases, in support of the separation of powers, when the courts overreached and directed a specific day and time to conduct the vote in the National Assembly first and then later in the Punjab for the oath of younger sharif. how do the lawyers’ bodies calibrate a selection of a political event for a comment and yet appear impartial? The nature of political business is such that one can never appear or act as “neutral” – haven’t we learned that by now. every time the Bar Councils and Associations give sermons on political matters; they undermine the integrity of the institution. our Bar Councils already have a lot on their plate. They operate in a country with one of the worst-performing judicial systems in the world. The profession of law needs a major intervention on a policy level. But the focus of the office bearers is not on legal reforms, regulation of the profession, or the revision of archaic legal syllabus taught at the schools.

Instead, they use the platform of the Bars to advance their political ambitions or use it to pursue their judicial elevations. Further, the politicization of Bars, post the lawyers’ movement, has only corrupted the leadership of the Bar – eager to act as a pressure group for vested interests.

The legal compass needs a reset!

The bigger issue around the debate of political involvement is the optics of it. Once the lawyers’ bodies indulge in political activities, it is hard for them not to appear partisan. The Islamabad Bar Council issued a press release on 07.05.2022 criticizing the role of Governor Punjab and his letter to the army chief.

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Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

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The writer holds LLM from Berkeley and is a Barrister of Lincoln’s Inn

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

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COMMENT 07 Editor’s mail Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan.

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Habits of effective people

A new strategy is needed to address Iran’s nuclear program A revised Iran nuclear deal based on the 2015 JCPOA could provide the basis for a new Biden administration strategy that would limit Iran’s nuclear program to peaceful purposes

dr alon BEn mEir

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eGARDLess of how flawed the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA; aka Iran nuclear deal) may be, it was by far better than having no deal. Trump’s withdrawal from the deal was most unfortunate as it did nothing but bring Iran ever closer to the nuclear threshold. Despite its public pronouncements to the contrary, Tehran remains determined to acquire nuclear weapons at some point in the near future; however, it can change its position once it returns to the original deal and together with the Us builds upon it. Nonetheless, to change the dynamic of the conflict and determine what it might take to modify Iran’s position, we need to better understand what is behind its nuclear ambitions. Thus, it is important to first examine the clergy’s mindset and their motivation to acquire nuclear weapons in spite of Western powers’ objections and irrespective of the weighty, if not crippling sanctions that have been imposed on the country over the years.

With a long and proud history, vast natural and human resources (with a population of more than 90 million), rich culture, and geostrategic location, Iran feels that it is entitled to become the region’s hegemon where it can exert considerable influence. since the 1979 revolution, Iran has felt threatened and isolated, living in fear of a Us-orchestrated regime change. As such, Iran commits nearly $25 billion of its annual budget to the military (an increase of 11 percent from 2020, making it the 14th largest military spender in the world) and over the years it has built a powerful conventional armed forces led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Given however the limitations of Iran’s conventional military power projection, the next phase of its national defense doctrine was the development of a nuclear weapons program designed to achieve three main objectives.

Why Iran seeks nuclear Weapons: First, Iran’s determination to realize its ambition of regional hegemony would be substantially augmented by the possession of

nuclear weapons. Iran has no intention of threatening or using such weapons against any of its adversaries—especially Israel, which is in possession of second-strike nuclear capability that could wipe out half the country—but the mere fact of being a nuclear power will give it the prestige and regional sway that it desires. second, by acquiring nuclear weapons, Iran wants to establish the doctrine of mutual assured destruction (MAD) and thus deter any nuclear power, such as the Us or Israel, from attacking it, knowing full well that no country with nuclear weapons has been attacked since World War II. India and Pakistan, who fought three conventional wars over Kashmir, have refrained from waging another war since they acquired nuclear weapons. The same can be said about North Korea, and if Ukraine kept its nuclear arsenals, Russia very likely would not have dared to invade it.

Third, as a predominantly shiite state, Iran seeks to be on par with sunni Pakistan and Jewish Israel, and cannot allow itself to be overshadowed by either. Moreover, Iran would feel confident that it can shield itself from regime change orchestrated by the Us in particular.

Iran’s nuclear Weapon strategy: Although Iran has time and again stated that it has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons and may remain true to its public narrative, based on solid intelligence evidence, Iran is seeking to achieve nuclear latency and produce enough weapons-grade uranium to construct three to four nuclear weapons in short order. however, it may well take Iran 18 months to two years to miniaturize a nuclear head to be fitted onto a ballistic missile.

Meanwhile, the clergy is prepared to sign off on a return to the original deal provided that their demands are met. This would include removing most if not all the sanctions to get the financial relief they desperately need, unfreezing tens of billions of dollars, and removing the IRGC’s militant arm, the Quds Force, from the Us terrorist list, which Iran is insisting upon and should not be a deal breaker. As things stand now, once Iran returns to the original deal, it will wait for the expiration of the sunset clauses in 2031 to resume its nuclear weapon program; the Iranians are known for their patience, and they feel that time and God are on their side.

For the Biden administration to address Iran’s concerns and dissuade it from taking the final leap to acquire deliverable nuclear weapons, it must develop a three-pronged strategy: a) change its public narrative and convey to the Iranian public that the Us has no intention of undermining Iran’s sovereignty and national security; b) craft a renewed JCPoA, build on it, and help Iran to become a constructive member of the international community; and c) establish a regional security architecture that will include all the countries from the Gulf to the Mediterranean. changIng the publIc narratIve:

how the Iranian government and people perceive the Us’ intentions matters greatly in shaping their public opinion. Any bellicose statements and threats emanating from the Us or Israel plays directly into the hand of the clergy, as they will use these adversarial pronouncements to show their public that the Us is Iran’s foremost enemy. In so doing they not only justify their enmity toward the Us but also blame it for the economic hardship the public is experiencing. For the Biden administration to impact Iranian public opinion, it must refrain from using acrimonious rhetoric and make it clear by every possible means that the Us holds no animosity toward Iran and is open to settle any and all disputes with the government peacefully and collaboratively.

It should be noted that even after 43 years of reign by the clergy, the majority of the Iranian population, especially the youth, remain Western-oriented and would like nothing more than to restore normal relations with the West, to where they can travel and study. We should also remember that before the 1979 revolution, Iran was one of the closet allies of the Us, and two or three generations has not changed the public’s Western-leaning cultural foundation. similarly, seventy years of soviet communist domination did not alter the eastern european countries’ political orientation, which sought to join the Western democracies immediately following the collapse of the soviet Union.

Needless to say, changing public narratives in and of itself will not be sufficient – it must be accompanied by action and sincere efforts to create a new environment not only to lend credibility to the new approach but in fact change the dynamic of the conflict. buIldIng on the reneWed Jcpoa: For that to happen, the Biden administration ought to make it clear to Iran that by returning to the original deal it can benefit greatly, not only from the initial phase of lifting the sanctions and unfreezing tens of billions of dollars but also by building on the new deal through: Beginning a process of normalizing relations between Washington and Tehran by establishing initial diplomatic relations; Renouncing publicly any effort to seek regime change, which is a prerequisite for any kind of Iranian cooperation; starting trade relations between the two countries and supporting Iran in joining the World Trade organization; Committing to not undertaking military or cyber-attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities as long as its nuclear program remains peaceful; and finally, Creating a joint commission to address a host of conflicting issues to reduce tensions and build trust.

Dr Alon Ben-Meir is a professor of international relations at the Centre for Global Affairs at NYU. He teaches courses on international negotiation and Middle Eastern studies. alon@alonben-meir.com

sTePheN R. Covey, the author of “7 habits of highly effective People” says that propensities resemble the string of rope that signs up and reinforces the rope here rope is your inclination. Propensities become a piece of nature that individuals think can’t be changed yet this is only a presumption. Like Apollo 11 there is a requirement for a high measure of energy to pass the gravitational draw of earth same is the situation with working on propensities for an individual.

People finding success likewise attempt to work on self-awareness.

They likewise constructed sound associations with others. The way we saw a problem is also a problem, we need to permit ourselves to go through a Paradigm shift (in which change ourselves on a very basic level to accomplish genuine change).

There are 7 habits according to Covey which are present in highly influential people.

Proactive Begin with the end in mind Put first thing first Think win-win seek first to understand then to be understood synergized sharpen the saw We can utilize our creative mind to foster a dream of the circumstance and use our consciences to conclude what values will direct us. Covey says that certain individuals effectively bustling themselves with work. They endeavour to get an advancement and achievement. Be that as it may, they quit assessing the importance behind these hardships and difficulties. They don’t consider what they centre is how much essential to them. The subsequent propensity advises us to begin anything with a reasonable objective and before accomplishing something make a plot for it. Before we begin working for our objective, we should recognise our qualities. We additionally should recognize our centre (priorities), whatever is at the focal point of our life will be the wellspring of our security, guidance, wisdom, and power. our centre generally influences our daily choices, activities, inspiration, and interpretation of events.

Managing yourself effectively and putting significant things first means restraining yourself to recognise which things we should focus on, and which things are significant or earnest. We don’t predominantly respond to pressing matters and invest a lot of energy on futile stuff. on the off chance that we work on significant things, it implies we work on a premise and forestall an emergency. It assists with applying the Pareto rule., as of which 80% of our outcomes come from 20% of time spent on accomplishing endeavours for work.

For excellent interpersonal relations, we have to think about the winwin condition which is mutually beneficial and satisfying. Covey gives 6 Paradigms of human interaction.

Win-win: in which both parties get a benefit.

Win-lose: in this people use their power, and personality creational to get a victory.

Lose-win: this kind of people is easily masked.

Lose-lose: in this stubborn and egoistic people interact.

Win: They don’t think to defeat someone. They think about what they want and what they get.

Win-no deal: In this one only wants to win. There is no benefit to such interaction.

When the question of interpersonal leadership arises. The more genuine our character is the higher the level of proactivity. The more we determined for win-win the more we are influenced.

Before offering any sort of idea or guidance to an individual fabricated a decent connection with him. We should get their point of view. We should pay attention to the individual to recognize the issue for this we need to essentially change. This thing serves to comprehend others and upgrade your reaction as indicated by the circumstance. esteeming the distinction in someone else’s viewpoints gives new opportunities, innovativeness, and openness. It is a sort of change where others get what they need, and great connections are fabricated on the grounds that you can get others. esteem the distinction in others move to one side negative energy and check out at positive things in others.

To be effective we must change ourselves physically, spiritually, mentally, and socially. When we allow free changes in ourselves then we practice all these habits effectively. This includes improving yourself physically mainly focusing on health, daily mediation, communication with others, involving yourself in literature and music, reading good books and keeping a journal of your thoughts improving mental ability, and lastly a social dimension which can be achieved by developing relationships.

MUHAMMAD MUNEEB AKBAR LAHORE

Justice system DIsPeNsING justice to each and every individual of the state is the responsibility of the government. When there is equal dispensing of justice to every citizen, be it poor or rich, it depicts a prosperous society.

If justice is given to the citizens, it produces a climate of peace and prosperity in the country.

The governance system which is prevalent in the country is both exploitative and oppressive. exploitative in terms, elites are given economic benefits and many other perks, while, lower class is to be deprived of these perks and benefits, which create disparity among different classes of society. oppressive is like that elites get themselves away from being incarcerated even if they have committed crimes and the poor stumble for justice in courts. supremacy of the constitution cannot be upheld until every citizen can get what his rights are. Democracy cannot be uplifted until we come to know that democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people and not at the hands of those who use democracy through authoritarian nature.

The upper class in every aspect get benefits and defraud the poor ones. higher ranks officials are given plots and many other perks from the assets of this country. Approximately about 20M Rupees are given to every retired higher rank official, which is the money of hard labourers of this country.

The justice system needs to be rectified so that every individual could get his right and an environment of peace be established.

MUHAMMAD SUFYAN AZAD KASHMIR

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08 WORLD VIEW

SINN FéIN’S vIctory WoN’t brINg A uNIted IrelANd rIght AWAy – but It’S gettINg cloSer BREXIT HAS DEVOURED ITS UNIONIST CHILDREN, HELPING TO DELIVER THE SENSE OF AN ENDING FOR NORTHERN IRELAND AS WE KNOW IT

Guardian FInTAn O’TOOLE

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n 2021, a hundred years after the creation of northern Ireland, Boris Johnson tweeted: “Let me underline that, now & in the future, northern Ireland’s place in the UK will be protected and strengthened.” Since the word “not” has to be inserted automatically into every positive statement Johnson makes, unionists ought to have taken this as fair warning: Year 101 of northern Ireland’s existence would be its equivalent of George orwell’s room 101, where you are confronted by your own worst nightmares.

After last week’s assembly elections, the unionist nightmare takes the amiable form of Michelle o’neill, Sinn Féin’s vice-president and now putative first minister of the northern Ireland executive. the source of dread is not so much o’neill herself as the historic moment she embodies: Catholic nationalism outstripping Protestant unionism. her party is dedicated above all to ending the union. It beat Johnson’s allies in the Democratic Unionist party (DUP) in first preference votes by eight percentage points.

In a normal polity, the rise and fall of parties does not have existential implications.

But northern Ireland has never been normal.

It was created to ensure one overwhelming imperative: to allow as many Protestants as possible to stay in the UK and exclude them-

selves from the emerging Irish state. Its border was drawn to create an area in which Protestants would have a permanent majority – which meant, of course, that its Catholic population would form a permanent minority.

It’s been obvious for a long time that this bet on permanence, like every other such gamble in history, would ultimately be a losing one. the unionist political monolith crumbled in 1972, when edward heath, as prime minister, pulled the plug on its parliament in Stormont. From then on, it has been accepted that if northern Ireland could be governed at all, it would only be through the sharing of power between nationalist and unionist parties. that arrangement was institutionalised by the Belfast agreement of 1998.

In that sense, unionists have long since grown used to the reality that they would never again exercise power unilaterally. Yet they could still console themselves with the thought that, even if they had to accept equality with nationalists, they were first among equals. In some respects, this was a mere trick of language. the agreement designated the leader of the biggest party as “first minister” and of the biggest party from the other side as “deputy first minister”. this was bad drafting – the two offices have precisely equal status.

But language and symbolism matter deeply in northern Ireland and that unqualified “first” was a thick comfort blanket for unionism.

It’s been ripped away now. two big

things happened in the election. one is that – because symbolism matters just as much on the nationalist side of the divide – the prospect of o’neill becoming first minister drew some more Catholic voters away from the Social Democratic and Labour party (SDLP) and towards Sinn Féin. But the other is that Brexit continued its work of dividing and undermining unionism. this second factor was actually more consequential than the first. Sinn Féin’s share of the vote rose only modestly. But the significance of that increase was magnified by the DUP’s decline.

In the assembly elections of May 2016, just a month before the Brexit referendum, the DUP took 29% of the vote. on thursday, it got 21%. Its vote has dropped precipitously even though it had what ought to have been a trump card – the tribal fear that, unless Protestants voted for the DUP, Sinn Féin would win the election and proceed to push for a border poll on a United Ireland. (Ironically, while the DUP was playing up the alleged imminence of a border poll, Sinn Féin was careful to play it down and concentrated its campaign on bread-and-butter issues.) there is a very long history in northern Ireland of holding your nose and voting for politicians from “our side”, not because you especially like them, but to keep the other crowd out.

Why did this impulse not kick in this time? Because the Brexit revolution is devouring its own children. Apart from Ukip, the

A historic election that leaves Northern Ireland where it was THE BIG NEWS WAS THE VICTORY OF SINN FÉIN, THE ONE-TIME POLITICAL WING OF THE PROVISIONAL IRA. IT IS NOW THE LARGEST PARTY, HAVING CLAIMED 29 PER CENT OF FIRST PREFERENCES. THIS IS QUITE A MOMENT FOR NATIONALISTS — THOSE WHO WANT NORTHERN IRELAND TO BE PART OF IRELAND Financial Times EDITORIAL BOARD

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orthern Ireland is a place where democracy is weakly rooted. So it is troubling that while there are clear winners from last week’s historic election and widespread backing for constructive government, it is in a rut. the big news was the victory of Sinn Féin, the one-time political wing of the Provisional IrA. It is now the largest party, having claimed 29 per cent of first preferences. this is quite a moment for nationalists — those who want northern Ireland to be part of Ireland.

Sinn Féin’s position as the largest party in the northern Ireland assembly means Michelle o’neill, its leader, has the right to take the title of first minister, an upgrade from her current role as deputy first minister. northern Ireland’s executive is always led by two leaders, one nationalist and one from the unionist community, which wants the region to stay in the UK. While one is styled as “deputy”, the roles are equal. So o’neill’s promotion would only be a symbolic shift. But what symbolism. In the 1960s, when the northern Irish civil rights movement’s work started, the six counties were marred by cruelty and bigotry, with equal rights denied to the largely Catholic nationalist minority. having a nationalist in charge is a milestone.

Still, Sinn Féin’s win does not bring unification closer. the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which underpins the peace, states that this can only be achieved by a referendum — or “border poll” — which will only be called when the UK government believes nationalists have a majority. they do not.

Indeed, in this election, nationalism polled roughly where it did a generation ago. Sinn Féin’s votes rose this time by consolidating that bloc — continuing a long-term trend by which it has marginalised the more moderate Social

Democratic and Labour party.

Unionism, meanwhile, has splintered. the Democratic Unionist party, the biggest unionist party, is (with some justification) blamed by unionists for the existence of the northern Ireland protocol, the part of the UK’s eU withdrawal agreement that creates a regulatory border for goods from Great Britain. Unionists voters scattered, some to traditional Unionist Voice, a more hardline party.

Some joined the “neithers”, or people who do not identify with either tradition — the only community that has grown markedly since 1998. Alliance, an unaligned party, surged into third place. It also took votes from moderate unionists and nationalists.

It would always be painful for the DUP to accept a first minister from Sinn Féin. But the DUP has also said it will refuse to go into government until the protocol is gone. Under the rules, this will mean the province can have no government — and the clock will start on another election. It may yet return to power, perhaps having received some guarantee. But it is anti-democratic for a party — one with just 21 per cent of first preferences — to use other people’s right to government as a bargaining chip.

Giving the biggest single party in the two communities such a strong veto has proved an error. It will be even more indefensible if the neithers rise more or the vote fractures further. the UK government should not encourage this with loose talk of ditching the protocol. It can be improved through negotiation. A big majority of voters backed politicians supporting this approach. the priority now must be getting a government. to that end, Sinn Féin should drop talk of an imminent border poll: it will not happen and it makes it more difficult to get unionists on board.

John hume, the nationalist and civil rights leader whose ideas above all built this system, hoped it would make people “work together in shared endeavour for the good of all”. northern Ireland needs leaders of his vision today.

DUP was the only substantial party in the UK to be wholly and enthusiastically in favour of the hardest possible Brexit. It funnelled money into the leave campaign in england. handed the balance of power at Westminster, it used it to help bring down theresa May and install Johnson in Downing Street. And, remarkably for a party with a very high proportion of teetotallers, it got so drunk on the fumes of Brexit that it believed Johnson when he swore that there would be a border down the Irish Sea “over my dead body”.

All of this made the DUP look foolish – admittedly not the most difficult achievement of the Brexit project. And it disturbed two very different groups of voters. one is hardline unionists who blame the DUP for having created, however inadvertently, the northern Ireland protocol that keeps the region within the eU’s single market, even while Britain diverges ever further from it. those people voted in significant numbers for the small traditional Unionist Voice (tUV). the other alienated constituency is moderate Protestants who never wanted to be dragged out of the eU. they moved to the cross-community and pro-eU Alliance party. these developments raise two very big questions – the future of the protocol and a united Ireland. the first is clarified by the election. Put simply, if Johnson claims to be representing the people of northern Ireland in using the protocol as an excuse to revive con-

flict with the eU, he is lying. the parties that oppose the protocol – the DUP, Ulster Unionists and tUV – got 40% of the vote between them. those that support the protocol – Sinn Féin, the SDLP, Alliance and two small parties – got 55%. If the tories follow through on Dominic raab’s threat yesterday to take “whatever measures are necessary” to unilaterally alter the protocol, thus triggering a trade war with the eU, it will not be to honour the wishes of northern Ireland’s voters. It will be a futile effort to save Johnson’s skin.

As for a united Ireland, only a fool would think it’s coming soon – and only a bigger fool would think that it has not, in some form, come closer. It’s not coming soon because most Irish people have not really begun to grapple with what it might mean in practice. But the identity of northern Ireland has been drastically altered by both the slow demographic change that has culminated in these election results and by the DUP’s embrace of Brexit extremism. the long and the short movements of history are coming together to create the sense of an ending. there is an urgent need to talk, in the most generous, open and imaginative way, about what northern Ireland’s afterlife might look like and how everyone can find a place within it.

Fintan O’Toole is a columnist with the Irish Times.

Why Sinn Fein holds sway on both sides of the border THE ALTERNATIVE IS ANOTHER CRISIS AT STORMONT, DIRECT RULE FROM LONDON, WORSENING RELATIONS WITH DUBLIN AND A POSSIBLE TRADE WAR WITH THE EU. ALL GRIST TO SINN FEIN’S MILL

specTaTor DEnIs sTAunTOn

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F Sinn Fein emerges with the most seats in the northern Ireland Assembly elections this week, it will not be because the party has grown in popularity since the last vote in 2017. It will be because support for the DUP is at its lowest in more than two decades. the DUP has suffered because of its failure to prevent Boris Johnson from agreeing the protocol that left northern Ireland subject to eU single-market and customs rules. Sinn Fein, meanwhile, has benefited from Brexit and the Conservatives’ assertion of a muscular form of Unionism, both of which have added legitimacy to calls for a border poll on Irish unity.

Another, more overlooked reason for Sinn Fein’s relative buoyancy is that it has retained the support of younger voters despite being part of government for most of the time since 2007. the Lucidtalk tracker poll puts the party on 26 per cent among all voters, six points ahead of the DUP – but 15 ahead among voters aged 18 to 24 and 11 ahead among those between 25 and 44.

Sinn Fein has even more support among young voters in the republic, where it is the most popular party with all voters, on 33 per cent in the polls, rising to 46 per cent among those aged 18 to 24 and 45 per cent among those between 25 and 34. But while it is an all-island organisation led from Dublin, Sinn Fein’s image and appeal are quite distinct north and south of the border.

In the republic, it is a left-wing populist party that has seen its support grow as the impact of Ireland’s housing crisis

has spread beyond the young and poor to reach the middle— aged and middle-class. In the european parliament Sinn Fein sits with the anti-system left, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s La France Insoumise. the party promises more public spending on housing, health and social welfare and tax cuts for the poor, funded by tax rises for the most well-off. For many young voters, a vote for Sinn Fein is a vote to drive Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, the parties that have dominated Irish politics for a century, out of office. If they are associated with the incompetence and cronyism that left the country so vulnerable during the 2008 crash, Sinn Fein presents itself as standing for economic, political and societal change.

Although it is an overtly nationalist party as well as a populist one, Sinn Fein has never flirted with anti-immigrant policies. Its dominance in working-class, high-immigrant areas is one reason Ireland is almost alone in europe in having no antiimmigrant party. the party’s nationalism and the legacy of the IrA’s armed campaign were long viewed as impediments to its progress south of the border. But younger voters are enthusiastic about a united Ireland and many view questions about Sinn Fein’s record during the troubles as politically motivated smears.

Sinn Fein cannot present itself as a populist insurgence north of the border, since it is a party of government under the Good Friday Agreement’s power-sharing arrangement. And unlike Alliance, and to some extent the SDLP and the Ulster Unionist party, it has no interest in breaking down traditional divisions. But its embrace of liberal positions on abortion and LGBt rights have protected it from the huge loss of younger support suffered by the DUP. neither a Sinn Fein first minister in Belfast nor a Sinn Fein government in Dublin can trigger a border poll. that can only be called by the northern Ireland secretary if there is clear evidence of a majority in favour of a united Ireland. But the party can keep talking about it, set up units to plan for it and generally unsettle Unionists, many of whom are already feeling beleaguered.

If the DUP and the British government wanted to slow Sinn Fein’s progress, they would accept the result of this week’s election, restore the executive, stop sabre-rattling about the protocol and focus on the cost-of-living increases that are hitting northern Ireland hard. the alternative is another crisis at Stormont, direct rule from London, worsening relations with Dublin and a possible trade war with the eU. All grist to Sinn Fein’s mill.

Denis Staunton is the London Editor, the Irish Times.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

NEWS

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EMIrAtES INtroDuCES NEW oFFEr For PAKIStANI PASSENGErS Shan Foods partners with Sehat Kahani to uplift female doctor participation in Medical Workforce Karachi pr

Shan Foods CEO Sikandar Nawaz Tiwana and Dr. Sara Saeed Khurram CEO Sehat Kahani, signed an agreement to initiate a strategic collaboration between the two parties. The partnership will benefit female doctors who have been out of practice and wish to join the medical workforce through telemedicine. Shan has initiated this conversation in their latest #OathForHer Campaign & aims to take this cause forward. Sehat Kahani is an a female focused health provider network that provides quality healthcare to those in need, using telemedicine – Starting their operations in 2017 a great part of their vision is to enroll female doctors that are unable to join the medical workforce physically due to personal reasons, empowering them to work conveniently from their respective homes.

Khalid Mahmood assumes charge as 20th Inspector General, National Highways & Motorway Police ISLAMABAD: Inspector General National Highways & Motorway Police Inam Ghani handed over command to new Inspector General National Highways & Motorway Police Khalid Mahmood, in change of command ceremony held at NHMP Central Police Office Islamabad. The ceremony was attended by Addl. IsG, DIsG, AIsG, and other seiner officers and officials of NHMP. A Memento of NHMP was presented to new IG, NHMP Khalid Mahmood by outgoing IG Inam Ghani.

Khalid Mahmood, (PSP) assumed the charge as Inspector General, National Highways & Motorway Police. He is the 20th Inspector General of National Highways & Motorway Police. Before his posting as IG, NHMP, he was working as Additional Inspector General Police, Central Region in Motorway Police. During his illustrious career, he undertook various important assignments. He has an excellent track record of professional competence in Police department. He is considered as the most professional police officers.. He lauded that Motorway Police is well reputed force and we have to work with more enthusiasm to enhance credibility level of NHMP at national & international level. He urge that our force shall live a life to make a difference where they can. In his opening address he emphasized upon the commanding officers and field formations to focus on help culture and courtesy with the commuters. pr

Karachi pr

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HE boarding pass of Emirates airline for Pakistani passengers has turned into more than a travel document or travel keepsake, it is also the key to the coolest deals in Dubai this summer! For five months starting May 01 to September 30, Emirates is unlocking even more offers for Pakistani passengers including all its customers arriving in or stopping over in Dubai with its My Emirates Summer Pass.

Emirates’ customers can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to hundreds of retail, leisure and dining outlets to enjoy fantastic discounts throughout Dubai. In addition, during May, those landing in Dubai can enjoy a complimentary Dubai Marina Cruise, which gives unrivalled panoramic views of one of the city’s most

iconic skylines from the Arabian Gulf.

Pre-booking is not required for the single-entry complimentary ticket to Tour Dubai’s one hour Marina Sightseeing Cruise. The Emirates customer just has to show a valid boarding pass, either digital or paper, at the ticketing counter on the day of use as well as proof of identity. The cruise is only valid from May 01 – 31 between 10am and 4pm.

UAE residents and nationals returning home to Dubai on Emirates during the promotional period can also benefit from the fantastic offers under My Emirates Summer Pass. Visiting friends and family can also avail of offers at top designer brand outlets like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger or splash out at Bath & Body Works. Families can save and beat the summer heat at Atlantis Aquaventure or break a sweat on some of the adrenaline-pumping attractions at IMG world of Adventure.

Couples who would appreciate a quiet afternoon

Minister for Power Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan directs NTDC to accelerate work on ongoing projects Lahore pr

After holding the portfolio as Minister for Energy (Power Division), Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan visited NTDC headquarter here at WAPDA House Lahore today. Managing Director NTDC, Engr. Manzoor Ahmad, gave a detailed presentation on the overview of NTDC, progress of ongoing projects while Additional Secretary (Power Division), Mr. Musaddiq Ahmed Khan Tahirkheli, and Joint Secretary (Transmission), Mr. Ahmad Taimoor Nasir, thoroughly briefed the Minister regarding projects & other major interventions.

During the briefing, it was apprised that NTDC operates as reliable transmission system and transformation capacity is being enhanced through augmentation of existing transformers & addition of new transformers as well as through new grid station and transmission line projects across the country. Recently, NTDC has completed 23 projects of transmission lines and grid stations, including 500 kV grid station

Faisalabad West and 220 kV grid station Jhimpir-II. As many as 51 projects of worth USD 2081.868 million (approx.) are at different stages of development, funded by different donor agencies and through NTDC own resources.

While updating about system constraints removal plan 2022, MD NTDC briefed that out of the total 15 projects, 9 projects have already been completed while remaining 05 projects have achieved considerable progress and their completion is targeted by end May-2022.

Minister for Energy (Power

Division) Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan appreciated the progress achieved by NTDC in completion of key projects and its ambitious approach for fast-track-completion of ongoing projects. He stressed the need to ensure delivery on targets and upkeep of transmission system assets to ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity to consumers through DISCOs. He expressed that present govt is determined to provide uninterrupted power supply to the masses, therefore, early completion of projects would pave the way for load-shedding-free Pakistan.

at a spa can indulge themselves at the Sofitel Spa with L'Occitane or spot Arabian oryx at sunset while taking a private desert safari with Arabian Adventures.

A holiday to Dubai is not complete without a city sightseeing bus tour that is eligible for discount or capturing the historic Dubai Creek on a cruise before saving up to 20 per cent on food and beverages at any of the Rove hotels. Accor Hotels is also offering 20 per cent off its food and beverage when My Emirates Pass is presented. Details of the offers can be found on www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.

Dubai is the place to be this summer season. In addition to an exciting calendar of world-class culture, shopping and dining, The Dubai Summer Surprises, one of the city’s major shopping and entertainment events, will be also running with a packed line-up of events and family activities, exclusive shopping deals, fun competitions, and shop and win promotions.

Bank Alfalah partners with Jubilee Life Insurance for 24x7 Cash Collection through largest CDM Network of Pakistan Bank Alfalah Limited (BAFL), the country’s leading financial institution and Jubilee Life Insurance Company Limited (JLICL), Pakistan biggest private sector insurer have come together, and signed an MOU for round the clock cash collection through Bank Alfalah CDM network.

The signing ceremony was held at Bank Alfalah’s Head Office in Karachi. With the help of this integration, JLICL customers and sales force will be able to deposit their insurance premiums / contributions in real-time through CDM (Cash Deposit Machine) in a secured manner.

Bank Alfalah Limited (BAFL) is one of the largest financial institution of Pakistan and one of the most influential industry leaders when it comes to innovative Digital Banking products. In past 2 years, Bank Alfalah has built the largest Cash Deposit Machine network of Pakistan - spreading across several cities and offering various useful cash deposit transactions to any walk-in customer with valid CNIC. These services are available nonstop round the clock and without the need of using ATM or Debit card.

Jubilee Life Insurance Company Limited (JLICL), a well-known and a leading private sector life insurance company that offers various customized insurance products for its customers. Along with its various insurance products for individuals and corporate businesses under conventional and Islamic modes of insurance, the Company flourishes in bringing best practices and world class solutions to the financial needs of its customers. pr

Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust: Providing Hope against Cancer for over 27 Years

Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centres (SKMCH&RC) are state-of-the-art cancer centres located in Lahore and Peshawar, Pakistan. SKMCH&RC, Lahore opened in 1994 and it was the first project of the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust, which is a charitable organisation established under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860 of Pakistan.

MAkIng QuALIty CAnCer CAre A reALIty for ALL: Throughout the pandemic, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centres (SKMCH&RC) in Lahore and in Peshawar continued to deliver cancer care, based on the principles of quality and equality.

In March 2021, SKMCH&RC, Lahore was once again accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), an international body based in the United States that recog-

nises hospitals all over the world for quality in all aspects of their functioning. The comprehensive re-accreditation survey was held from 15th to 19th March, with a team of expert surveyors from the JCI evaluating compliance to hospital standards related to a variety of areas. These included the International Patient Safety Goals, patient assessment and care, anaesthesia and surgical care, medication management, patient and family education, quality improvement, infection prevention and control, governance and leadership, facility management, staff qualifications and education and information management. Of note is the fact that SKMCH&RC, Lahore, was surveyed against new and far more stringent standards set by the JCI in its 7th edition of standards.

SkMCH&rC, LAHore ContInueS to InveSt In LAteSt teCH-

noLogy: At SKMCH&RC, Lahore, the commissioning of a second PET-CT scanner in 2021 doubled the capacity to perform scans and drastically reduced waiting times.

As part of the Hospital’s commitment to remaining at the cutting edge of technology, a new state-of-the-art linear accelerator with stereotactic body radiotherapy capability became functional in March 2022. The department of Clinical & Radiation Oncology is equipped with five linear accelerators and it is the largest department in the country delivering more than 50,000 radiation therapy sessions each year.

IMpACt of your Support: According to one estimate, there are 170,000 to 200,000 new cases of cancer in Pakistan each year. In 2021, we recorded more than 12,000 new patient registrations across the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust facilities,

an increase from previous year, despite the challenges presented by the pandemic.

Across these various facilities, 210,667 patients visited the outpatient clinics and 14,840 admissions were recorded. Approximately 6 million pathology tests, 198,393 radiology and nuclear medicine imaging studies, 77,809 radiation therapy sessions and 19,128 surgical procedures were performed. 63,725 chemotherapy visits were recorded and more than 1,963,904 prescriptions (including the latest chemotherapeutic agents) were issued from pharmacy.

SKMCH&RC continues to strive, with each passing year, to take in as many new cancer patients as possible through various expansion and construction projects. For this reason, construction of Pakistan’s third and largest SKMCH&RC in Karachi continued uninterrupted in the year 2021, with nearly

75% of the grey structure completed by the end of the year. It is expected that, with the ongoing support of generous donors, this project will be completed in late-2023.

ZAkAt utILISAtIon: Since the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust was established, strict transparency has been ensured in all its financial systems, with audited annual accounts being made publicly available.

All necessary steps have been taken to ensure that the utilisation of Zakat complies with Islamic injunctions, by using it only for direct patient care, and not for construction. As part of this commitment, an MOU was signed with Pakistan’s largest Islamic bank and SKMT received Shariah Compliance Certificate for implementation of a comprehensive Shariah compliance framework for the collection, utilisation, and management of Zakat funds, in line with Islamic principles.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

10 FOREIGN NEWS

Sri Lankan PM quitS aMid vioLent cLaSheS

S

AgEncIES

RI Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned on Monday, his spokesman said, shortly after violent clashes between his supporters and anti-government protesters left 78 people wounded.

The 76-year-old sent his letter of resignation to his younger brother, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, clearing the way for a “new unity government”, spokesman Rohan Weliwita said.

Earlier in the day, the Sri Lankan authorities imposed a nationwide curfew and deployed the army after dozens of people were hospitalised when government supporters armed with sticks and clubs attacked protestors, AFP reporters said.

The US ambassador to Sri Lanka condemned “the violence against peaceful protestors today, and call on the government to conduct a full investigation, including the arrest & prosecution of anyone who incited violence”. Sri Lankans have suffered months of blackouts and dire shortages of food, fuel and medicines in the island’s worst economic crisis since independence, sparking weeks of overwhelmingly peaceful anti-government demonstrations.

But on Monday, the biggest clashes since the start of the crisis erupted in Colombo when supporters of the family of the president and the prime minister, went on the rampage, AFP reporters at the scene said.

Police fired tear gas and water cannon and declared an immediate curfew in Colombo which was later widened to in-

clude the entire South Asian island nation of 22 million people.

At least 78 injured people were hospitalised, Colombo National Hospital spokesman Pushpa Soysa told AFP. Officials said that the army riot squad was called in to reinforce police.

Soldiers have been deployed throughout the crisis to protect deliveries of fuel and other essentials but until now, not to prevent clashes. Scores of Rajapaksa loyalists attacked unarmed protesters camping outside the president’s office at the seafront Galle Face promenade in downtown Colombo since April 9, AFP reporters said.

The violence began after several thousand supporters of the prime minister, brought in buses from rural areas, poured out of his nearby official residence.

Rajapaksa had addressed some 3,000 supporters at his house and pledged he would “protect the interests of the nation.”

The supporters then initially pulled down tents of protesters in front of the prime minister’s Temple Trees residence and torched anti-government banners and placards. They then marched to the nearby Galle Face seafront promenade and began destroying other tents set up by the “Gota go home” campaign that demands the president step down. “Strongly condemn the violent acts taking place by those inciting & participating, irrespective of political allegiances. Violence won’t solve the current problems,” President Rajapaksa tweeted.

Opposition MP Sajith Premadasa tried to move into the area after the clashes, but he came under attack from a mob and his secu-

PLA encircles Taiwan island with carrier drills amid US, Japanese provocations AgEncIES Starting a routine, realistic combat training mission in the West Pacific about a week ago, the Liaoning aircraft carrier group of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has reportedly been practicing intensively over the past few days in the Philippine Sea to the east of the island of Taiwan and south of Japan, a location that experts said is a vital place to stop potential external interference in event of a reunificationby-force operation in the Taiwan Straits.

With the carrier group to Taiwan’s east, the PLA also reportedly dispatched an increased number of different types of warplanes and additional warships from the Chinese mainland west of the island of Taiwan, effectively surrounding and enclosing the island under the watch of US and Japanese aircraft carriers, which are serving as “perfect practice partners” for the PLA drills, analysts said.

After reporting a PLA Navy flotilla, consisting of the aircraft carrier Liaoning, a Type 055 large destroyer, three Type 052D destroyers, a Type 052C destroyer, a Type 054A frigate and a Type 901 comprehensive supply ship, sailed from the East China Sea through the Miyako Strait to the Pacific Ocean on May 2, Japan’s Ministry of Defense Joint Staff released monitoring reports for five consecutive days from Wednesday to Sunday. It said the carrier group conducted intensive, cross-day-and-night carrier-based aircraft training with live munitions in the Philippine Sea east of the island of Taiwan and south of Japan from Tuesday to Saturday.

The Liaoning carrier group was sailing slowly closer to the island of Taiwan as its drills went on, the Japanese releases show.

The Philippine Sea where the Liaoning carrier group is holding drills is a vital sea region should a reunification-by-force operation take place, Shi Hong,

executive chief editor of Chinese mainland magazine Shipborne Weapons, told the Global Times on Sunday.

By moving in tandem with aerial and maritime forces from the Chinese mainland, the carrier group could completely cut off the routes foreign forces may take if they militarily interfere with the Taiwan question, and this will bring significant advantages to the PLA, Shi said.

Just as the Liaoning carrier group was practicing to the east of Taiwan, Taiwan’s defense authority reported significant increases of PLA warplane activities to the island’s southwest and southeast in terms of both aircraft types and sortie numbers from Thursday to Sunday. A total of 31 PLA aircraft sorties featuring H6 bombers, J-11 and J-16 fighter jets, KJ-500 early warning aircraft, Y-8 anti-submarine warfare aircraft and electronic warfare aircraft, as well as Ka-28 antisubmarine warfare helicopters were spotted by Taiwan’s defense authority during those days.

Visiting Chinese VP meets Moon Jae-in, says ‘friendly cooperation should not change’ SEOUL Agencies

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan met with outgoing South Korean President Moon Jae-in here on Monday, a day before attending President-elect Yoon Sul-yeol’s inauguration as a special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Wang delivered Xi’s greetings to Moon and stressed progress in relations in the past five years under the instruction of the two top leaders, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the two countries have enjoyed close high-level exchanges, deepening cooperation and smooth coordination on multilateral communication, Wang said, stressing the resilience and great potential of bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

Wang said that no matter how international and regional situations change, the fundamentals of friendly cooperation between China and South Korea will not and should not change. That is a key lesson learned from the history of bilateral relations.

Moon said the meeting was the last key diplomatic

activity in his tenure and asked Wang to deliver his greetings to Xi. Bilateral relations in the past five years overcame challenges and made progress, Moon said, expressing hope that the next South Korean government will continue the momentum.

Amid the power transition, Chinese observers spoke highly of the Moon administration’s balanced foreign policy and efforts to bring China-South Korea relations, which deteriorated after South Korea’s deployment of a THAAD system, back to a track of positive development.

Yoon may lean more toward the US than Moon did and China-South Korea ties may experience a period of adjustment, Chinese experts said, stressing benign China-South Korea relations will benefit China and South Korea, and the Yoon administration is expected to continue on the right path rather than bring about a major setback.

Lü Chao, an expert on the Korean Peninsula issue at the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Monday that Moon’s balanced foreign policy has generated a positive influence on peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

Friendly ties with China, not taking sides in major

countries ensured the independence of South Korea and stable economic growth, Lü said, citing the progress in China-South Korea trade and economic cooperation in the past years.

Experts also noted Moon’s handling of the Korean Peninsula issue, including three summits with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and efforts to facilitate negotiations between Kim and then US president Donald Trump. Over the sensitive THAAD issue which dragged China-South Korea ties to the abyss, Moon said “three no’s” — no participation in the US’ missile defense network, no establishment of a trilateral military alliance with the US and Japan, and no additional THAAD deployment.

rity staff bundled him into a car and drove off.

“The president should accept the responsibility for this violence instigated by the prime minister!,” opposition MP Eran Wickramaratne tweeted.

“You cannot chase us from standing with our people.” US ambassador Julie Chung tweeted: “Our sympathies are with those injured today and we urge calm and restraint across the island.”

iran confirms upcoming visit of qatar’s emir to tehran DuBai: Qatar’s Emir will visit Iran soon, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh confirmed on Monday during a news conference. “The visit of the Emir of Qatar to Tehran is on the agenda and includes bilateral, regional and international issues. After this trip, Iran’s President will travel to a Gulf country,” Khatibzadeh said. Citing a source, Reuters reported on Sunday that Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will visit Iran before travelling to Germany, Britain and other European states to discuss efforts to revive Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal and energy security in Europe. The source added the Emir’s trip aimed at bringing parties to the Iran nuclear pact to a “new middle ground.” This follows an impasse in indirect Iran-U.S. talks over Tehran’s insistence that Washington remove the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, its elite security force, from the U.S. Foreign Terrorist Organization list. Qatar’s Emir last visited Iran in January 2020 to reduce tensions between Tehran and Washington following the killing of top Revolutionary Guard Commander Qassem Soleimani by the United States whilst on a visit to Iraq. Agencies

russian ambassador doused in red by anti-war protesters in Poland WarsaW: The Russian ambassador to Poland was doused in a red substance on Monday by people protesting against the war in Ukraine as he went to lay flowers at the Soviet Military Cemetery in Warsaw to mark the 77th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. The war in Ukraine has cast a shadow over this year’s Victory Day, when Moscow honours the 27 million Soviet citizens who lost their lives in World War Two. Poland, a strong supporter of Ukraine in its resistance to Russia’s invasion, opposed any largescale commemoration taking place. Video footage posted on Twitter showed the protesters, some with Ukrainian flags, surrounding the Russian delegation and chanting “fascists” before the ambassador was doused in the red substance. Ambassador Sergey Andreev told reporters he and his team were not seriously hurt in the incident, TASS news agency reported. “We will make a formal protest,” he said.

“When they recommended that we not hold a larger event, we met them halfway, we didn’t aggravate the situation.” Earlier in the day the words “Kill Putin” were found written in blue and yellow, the colours of the Ukrainian flag, on a monument at the cemetery, private broadcaster TVN24 reported. The writing was later removed. One protester interviewed by TVN24 said it was good that the ambassador had been covered in red. “With all our heart we are with Mariupol,” she said, referring to the southeastern Ukrainian city that has been devastated by the war. Agencies

China accuses US for using NED as ‘tool to undermine democracy’ in sovereign countries ISLAMABAD Agencies

China has accused the US for using democracy as a tool and a weapon to undermine democracy in the name of democracy, to incite division and confrontation, and to meddle in other countries’ internal affairs, causing catastrophic consequences.

It merits mention that the outgoing Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan has recently accused the US for engineering a regime change operation to overthrow his government.

Addressing media at a regular briefing, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs had released a Fact Sheet on the dubious role of National Endowment for Democracy (NED) on its website on May 7.

“The fact sheet, with about 12,000 words in six sections, lays bare the true face of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) through hundreds of specific incidents gathered from public reports,” he said.

He said the NED, as one of the US government’s main “foot soldiers” and “white gloves”, has subverted lawful governments and cultivated pro-US puppet forces under the pretext of democracy.

“NED was seen behind color revolutions instigated

and orchestrated by the US, including the disintegration of the Soviet Union, the Rose Revolution in Georgia, the Orange Revolution in Ukraine and the Arab Spring,” he said.

He added that the NED has been stirring up protests and demonstrations in Thailand, inciting the opposition parties in Nicaragua to seize power by force, funding anti-Cuba forces to manipulate public sentiment against the government, and long interfering in Venezuela’s internal affairs through various means.

“Hellbent on disrupting the world, NED has not brought social stability and development or contented lives and good work to other countries.

On the contrary, it has caused a host of issues including withered livelihood, languishing economy and social confrontation”.

He said the NED also extends its evil hand to China and invests heavily in anti-China programs every year to incite “Xinjiang independence”, “Hong Kong independence”, and “Tibet independence” activities by various means.

“It also colludes with ‘Taiwan independence’ forces and attempts to incite division and disrupt stability across the Taiwan Strait, which has been met with indignation and opposition from the Chinese people on both sides of the Strait,” he added.

“NED is actually the ‘second CIA’ of the US. It is by no means an NGO that provides support for democracy abroad. Instead, it takes orders directly from the US government and manipulates NGOs through the provision

of funding to conduct subversion, infiltration and sabotage to serve US strategic interests”.

“We believe the international community will see its true face more and more clearly, and more countries will expose its ugly track record in various forms. In today’s world, peace and development remains the theme of our times. Those that meddle in other countries’ domestic affairs are doomed to fail no matter what disguise they use,” he added.

China, Pakistan CooPeration to Continue: Responding to another question, Zhao Lijian said that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners with extensive and deep cooperation in various sectors.

“China is ready to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Pakistan, promote the highlevel development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and extend the corridor to health, industrial, trade, digital and green development”.

“We will continue to support Chinese companies in stepping up cooperation with Pakistan, help Pakistan advance its industrialization process and improve its capability of sustainable development. We hope the Pakistani side can create a safe and enabling environment for Chinese companies’ investment and development in Pakistan,” he concluded.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022 | KARACHI

KIM BI-O wIns MAIden AsIAn TOUr TITle seOUL

K

agencieS

IM Bi-O thrilled huge home crowds to win his maiden Asian Tour title at the Maekyung Open on Sunday, coming home two shots clear of fellow South Korean Cho Ming-yu.

Starting the final day with a four-shot cushion at Namseoul Country Club and still three shots clear on the 18th tee, Kim had to withstand a scare when he carved his drive deep into trees.

But he coolly prevented disaster by threading a path back into play from a pile of leaves and securing a bogey five and a round of one-over-par 72 to lift the trophy for the second time.

Cho, joint second overnight, had drawn

level with Kim after seven, thanks to three birdies in four holes. But a bogey then double-bogey at the eighth and ninth derailed his challenge.

Cho eventually carded a one-under 70 to finish solo second, while Moon Kyung-jun shot a 67, the round of the day, to be a stroke further back in third.

A decade ago, Kim won the Maekyung Open at the same course as a 21-year-old when the tournament had been sanctioned by the now defunct OneAsia Tour.

“Today was quite tough and I was struggling on a few holes and lost concentration,” said Kim. “But I’m really happy to win.”

He conceded that he tried not to think about his big lead, all too aware that shots can be frittered away on the tight, undulating, tree-lined layout.

“I know Namseoul is a quite difficult

SPORTS 11 course. So I tried not to think about having a four-shot lead,” said Kim. The 31-year-old was roared to victory by thousands of golf-starved fans who had been allowed into a tournament for only the second time since the pandemic began.

Kim’s hiccup at the final hole had not been the only drama of his week – he earlier had to come to the rescue when an official was taken ill.

As the final group began their third round on Saturday, a 20-year-old university student, who was handling one of the scoreboards, collapsed on the first tee as Kim was about to play.

Kim and a doctor who happened to be in the large crowd rushed to help before an ambulance was called and the student, Lee Woo-jun who suffers from anaemia, made a full recovery after being taken to hospital.

PCB to identify Rawalpindi’s backup for ODI series against West Indies RAWALPinDi Staff RepoRt

The expected long march of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI) in Islamabad has put Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to think over a possible change in venue for the ODI series against the West Indies.

Rawalpindi is scheduled to West Indies for three-match ODI series from June 8 to 12. The Men is Maroon will arrive in the capital on June 5 while PTI has announced to call a march against the government after May 20.

According to sources, PCB have started in-house consultations and preliminary talks about changing the venue, other cities including Karachi have been looked at as an alternative option.

The board official confirmed this development while confirming that Pindi Cricket Stadium is still the host as per the announced schedule.

It must be noted that this particular series was shifted to June from December after COVID-19 cases emerged in the West Indies camp during the T20I series in Karachi.

Angry Zverev says ATP needs to allow him some early nights Agencies

Keshav Maharaj named ICC Men’s Player of the Month for April 2022 Agencies South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj has been rewarded for his excellent recent form by being named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for April 2022. Maharaj was at his brilliant best during the Proteas’ recent two-match Test series against Bangladesh as he beat fellow South African Simon Harmer and Oman opener Jatinder Singh for the monthly gong. It was a richly deserved award for Maharaj, who contributed 16 wickets for South Africa during the Test series and duly claimed the Player of the Series award in the process. His exploits weren’t just with the ball either, with Maharaj scoring an attacking 84 with the bat during the second Test in Port Elizabeth as South Africa wrapped up a 2-0 series triumph on home soil. Members of the voting panel that awarded the monthly honour to Maharaj were full of praise for the 32-year-old. “A simply outstanding few weeks showcasing true grit and determination,” former South Africa batter and current voting panel member JP Duminy said. “Exceptional to see him work in tandem with Simon Harmer in exploiting the skills that we’ve always known to be there.” Fellow voting panel member Lisa Sthalekar echoed Duminy’s sentiments, with the Australian legend making note of Maharaj’s valuable late runs with the bat. “He was a key member to the success of the series for South Africa,” ICC Hall of Famer Sthalekar said. “The amount of wickets at crucial times was exceptional and late runs was one of the main reasons for their success.”

Alexander Zverev said he had no chance in the Madrid Open final on Sunday because of the way the tournament had been organised.

Zverev succumbed in 62 minutes to Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz but was unhappy that on the previous two nights he had been last on court.

On Friday the German finished his quarterfinal after midnight, and on Saturday, he won after 1:00am am Madrid time.

“The ATP’s job was an absolute disgrace this week,” the world No. 3 said in a press conference.

“Two days ago I went to bed at 4:00, 4:30 a.m. Yesterday I went to bed at 5:20 a.m.

“You know, if any normal person goes to bed one night at 4:00 a.m., the next night at 5:00 a.m., it will be a tough time just to be awake for them.

“Even if I’m fresh, probably I would not beat Carlos, but definitely (it) would be a better match,” he said.

Zverev said it was “upsetting” because in Acapulco in February he had also to play until 5:00 am.

“I’m also human. I’m not a robot. I can’t. I simply cannot be on my level when this is happening

every night.”

He reiterated his post-match comments that Alcaraz was the “best player in the world right now”.

“I don’t take anything away from Carlos,” he said.

“At the end of the day, if you are playing the best players in the world, you have to be at your top. Otherwise you will have no chance. Today I had no chance.”

ICC clears former cricketer of fixing charges after being accused

by Umar Akmal Agencies The International Cricket Council has cleared former Pakistan cricketer Mansoor Akhtar of fixing charges.

Mansoor Akhtar was accused by batter Umar Akmal of approaching him for fixing in Canada’s Global T20 League in 2019. Umar Akmal had reported the matter to PCB’s anti-corruption unit and the event organizers. Umar played for Winnipeg Hawks where Mansoor Akhtar was also part of the team management. According to the letter sent to the 64-year-old, ICC Anti-Corruption Unit Senior Manager Steve Richardson clarified that no fixing charge was being levelled against him. “I am writing to inform you of the outcome of the investigation into the corrupt approach that was allegedly made by you to a player in October 2019. This information has previously been notified to you via WhatsApp,” the letter stated.

“The investigation has now concluded, and the ICC will not be laying any charges against you. Decisions are made taking into account many factors however, if any further evidence comes to notice the ICC reserves the right to reopen the investigation.

We would like to thank you for your cooperation with the investigation,” it further added. It must be noted that Mansoor played 19 Tests and 41 ODIs between 1980 and 1990.

ODI series scrapped from Pakistan’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka Agencies The three one-day international (ODI) matches that were part of the Green Shirts’ planned tour of Sri Lanka have been scrapped, it emerged on Monday. Pakistan was originally slated to play two Tests and three ODIs when the men’s team are to visit Sri Lanka in July. However, a spokesperson for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that the ODIs had been scrapped at the request of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) He said that SLC had requested the board to drop the three ODIs so that they could begin the Lanka Premier League (LPL) earlier.

“The ODIs are not part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League and SLC is facing financial challenges, so the PCB accepted the request,” the PCB official said.

He went on to say that the itinerary for the two Test matches was being worked out but said they would be played in the agreed upon window (July 5 to August 9).

The news comes as Sri Lanka is suf-

fering from a worsening economic crisis.

Months of blackouts and acute shortages

of food, fuel and medicines have caused widespread suffering across the South

Asian island, which is enduring its worstever economic downturn.

Tuesday, 10 May, 2022

prayer timings

NEWS

PreSIdenT rejeCTS PM’S AdVICe To reMoVe GoVernor PunjAb ISLAMABAD

P

staff report

RESIDENT Dr Arif Alvi has conveyed to the Prime Minister of Pakistan that Governor Punjab cannot be removed without his approval.

Referring to clause 3 of Article 101 of the Constitution, President Alvi stated that “the Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President”.

He wrote that the incumbent governor cannot be removed as there was neither any allegation of misconduct nor conviction by any court of law or of any act committed by him contrary to the Constitution of Pakistan. He stated that it was his duty as Head of the State to represent the unity of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in terms of Article 41 of the Constitution.

Highlighting the Constitutional

role of the Governor of Punjab, President Alvi said that the Governor had also sent a report earlier regarding the

IHC gives directive to PM to review Hanif Abbasi’s appointment as SAPM The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday directed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review his decision of appointing Hanif Abbasi as his special assistant.

The court issued the directive while hearing a plea filed by former interior minister and Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid, who has challenged Abbasi’s appointment as a special assistant to the prime minister (SAPM) on grounds of his 2018 conviction in an ephedrine case.

In his petition, Rashid pointed out that the Lahore High Court had only suspended Abbasi’s sentence and not his conviction in the case, adding that “the conviction stood intact for all intents and purposes”.

Rashid again highlighted these objections at today’s hearing, saying that a convict had been made an SAPM. At this, IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah asked whether any hearing in the drug case was held after the suspension of Abbasi’s sentence.

“It has been four years and no hearing has been held,” replied Rashid’s lawyer.

Following that, the court issued notices to the respondents, directed the PM to review his decision of appointing Abbasi as his SAPM and adjourned the hearing till May 17.

Earlier at the hearing, Justice Minallah sought Rashid’s affirmation that he had faith in his court.

“These courts are for everyone. Perhaps, people don’t believe this,” the IHC CJ remarked while addressing Rashid, adding that the opening of courts at midnight was being questioned at rallies.

On April 9, with the deadline set by the Supreme Court to hold voting on no-trust motion against then-prime minister Imran Khan fast approaching after a marathon NA session, the apex court and the IHC had opened their doors beyond their notified timings. The vote was eventually held and saw Imran voted out from the top office.

The IHC’s decision to resume court activity at the unusual hour had come after a pre-emptive petition was filed asking the court to restrain Imran from de-notifying Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa as chief of the army staff. The then government had, however, denied having any such plans.

Later, Imran had asked the judiciary, notably at an April 13 rally, to explain why it had felt the need to open its doors at midnight.

Without making any reference to a particular instance, Justice Minallah said today that it seemed as if the PTI did not have faith in the courts. “It is said in rallies that courts are not independent.”

Rashid — a longtime ally of Imran who was also part of the PTI’s ousted coalition government — assured Justice Minallah that “we have approached the court because we have faith in it.”

At this, the chief justice highlighted the significance of making it clear that “justice is being served”. news desk

unfortunate happenings in the Punjab Assembly, questions regarding the validity of the resignation of Chief Min-

ister Punjab, Sardar Usman Ahmed Khan Buzdar, and shifting of loyalties.

Rejecting the advice of the Prime Minister, the president stated that he was convinced that the removal of the Governor would be unfair and against the norms of justice.

The President emphasized that it was essential that the incumbent Governor should continue to stay to encourage and promote a healthy and clean democratic system where members are not coerced or bought to bring about an illegitimate change and Article 63A of the Constitution specifically discouraged such activities.

The President further highlighted that he was committed to stand by the provisions of the Constitution of Pakistan in these difficult times and strongly rejected the advice of the Prime Minister to remove the Governor Punjab.

Rupee dips to 187.53 against dollar in interbank market Pakistani rupee maintained its losing streak against the US dollar and depreciated to 187.53 on Monday.

The State Bank of Pakistan said in a statement that the rupee opened at 186.63 against the US dollar in the interbank market and closed at 187.53 after shedding 90 paisas (0.48 percent).

Within the open market, the rupee was traded at 187.50/188.50 per dollar against 186/187 a dollar a day earlier.

The rupee shed Rs0.94 against the US dollar during the last week with only one working day. Overall, the rupee has depreciated by Rs30.04 against the US dollar during the ongoing fiscal year 2021-22 and Rs11.02 during the current year 2022.

The rupee came under pressure after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays as the Middle East markets did not

open and the nostro accounts failed to receive funding. As the flow of remittances remains high during the holy month of Ramazan and also due to Eid, there are possibilities that remittances may dry out for about a week or so. This factor also increased the dollar’s demand.

According to experts, gloomy macros will continue to put pressure on the local unit.

They said though there is stress on the economy, yet some stability is visible. Despite better exports, the current account deficit has surged to alarming levels and in order to address this challenge, there is a need to look at the agriculture sector and curtail needless imports, they added.

On the other hand, the total liquid foreign exchange reserves held by the country decreased for the 12th consecutive week

by $115 million (0.7 percent) on a week-on-week basis to stand at $16.55 billion as of the week ended on April 30, 2022, compared to $16.67 billion in the previous week, weekly data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday last showed.

Currency dealers believe that the statement of International Monetary Fund (IMF) that its mission will visit Pakistan in May to resume discussions over policies for completing the seventh review may help improve the sentiment and stabilise the rupee. Traders and markets are looking at the IMF as progress with the Fund instils investor confidence in the economy, stabilises Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, and unlocks funding from other international financial institutions. tLtp

CJ Minallah seeks reply from Imran Khan, questions if he trusts courts nEwS DESk Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Athar Minallah sought a response on Monday from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan over whether he had confidence over the courts or not.

CJ Minallah’s order came during the hearing of the petition, filed by former information minister Fawad Chaudhry, challenging the registration of blasphemy cases against the PTI leadership.

The IHC CJ refused to conduct the hearing, stating that the advocate, Faisal Chaudhry, must first ask the party leadership whether they trusted the court. “The narrative that the Supreme Court and the high courts are compromised is still being spread,” Justice Minallah observed. “This court can work for 24 hours a day,” he said, asking if the petitioner had any objection with the court that the court may look into.

He added that the petitioners had till tomorrow (Tuesday) to provide a response. “If you don’t trust

the court, let me know,” the IHC CJ stated.

CJ Minallah criticised the rhetoric of the ousted government, reminding that it was the same court that provided relief to the PTI at 11pm during the 2014 sit-in.

“If you have the slightest doubt that the high court and the Supreme Court were compromised, let me know,” the high court justice reiterated.

The chief justice also questioned the “irresponsible reporting”, saying that “some analysts created an atmosphere that a martial law was imminent.”

He further censured the PTI for flaming doubts on the country’s institutions when Imran questioned courts opening at night Responding to the IHC CJ’s remarks, PTI’s counsel Faisal Chaudhry said that he would again ask the petitioner if they wanted to withdraw the petition from the IHC. Chief Justice Athar Minallah continued to lambast the PTI stating that they did not have confidence in the courts and were telling the public that the courts had been compromised.

FAJR SUNRISE

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Govt to decide petroleum prices hike in consultation with allies: Power Minister LAHORE staff report

Federal Minister for Power Khurrum Dastagir Khan Monday assured that the coalition government will maintain electricity rates despite an increase in coal prices.

The Minister, however, added that discussion with allies is underway regarding the price of petroleum products.

Speaking to journalists at the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) headquarters, Khan said that the foremost priority of the new government is the immediate redressal of consumer grievances and decisions regarding petrol and power subsidy will be taken in the joint meeting of the allies.

“When PML-N completed its tenure in 2018, there was enough power supply in the country; however when the coalition government came into power in April, they had to face a power crisis,” he added.

The power minister further added that when they took over the government, people were witnessing load shedding for eight to 10 hours. He attributed this crisis to Imran Khan government, assuring that they are trying to overcome the crisis.

Khan further mentioned that areas, where there are fewer line losses, have zero load-shedding just like Lahore.

He mentioned that the capacity of 7000MW had remained closed, former government did not purchase diesel, gas, or coal on time.

“Currently, the circular debt is around Rs2,400 billion. If prices in the international market sustain, we will resolve this issue,” he said.

Shedding light on the need of the hour, the power minister said that there is a need to install modern style metres, adding that requests for new connections would be processed in 10 days.

“We are also monitoring the increase in demand for electricity because of hot weather,” he said, maintaining that due to rising temperature “we will face some difficulties”.

Khan asserted that if they can resolve the issue of eight-hour load shedding, they can resolve other issues as well.

Pemra warns TV channels from airing content that ‘casts aspersions’ against army, judiciary ISLAMABAD news desk

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulation Authority on Monday issued directives for and warned private electronic media from airing content against the armed forces and judiciary.

“It has been observed that a few satellite TV channels are airing content which tantamounts to casting aspersions against state institutions i.e. armed forces and judiciary,” the directives said, adding that airing such content violated Pemra rules, provisions of the Pemra Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisement) Code of Conduct 2015 and the principles laid down by the courts.

The watchdog’s directives detailed that even though freedom of speech and expression were fundamental rights, they were subject to “reasonable restrictions” imposed by the law in the interest of Islam, the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to the contempt of court or incitement to an offence.

The directives said that in compliance with the relevant Pemra laws and regulations, any entity that is granted a license by the authority should comply with its codes of programmes and advertisements and appoint an in-house monitoring committee to to ensure compliance.

Content of programmes and advertisements broadcast or distributed by the broadcast media or distribution service operator should also conform to the relevant laws and provisions outlined in the directives.

“The licensee shall ensure that no content is aired which contains aspersions against the judiciary or armed forces of Pakistan,” the directives said.

Furthermore, licensees should ensure that programmes on sub-judice matters should be aired in an “informative manner” and “handled objectively” and no content should be aired which could prejudice the determination by any judicial forum.

“Moreover, all satellite TV channels are further directed to ensure that an effective time-delay mechanism be put in place and an impartial and independent editorial board be constituted … in order to ensure that their platform is not used by anyone for uttering contemptuous remarks in any manner whatsoever against any state institutions,” Pemra ordered.

Otherwise, it warned that legal action under the relevant laws would be pursued in case of any violation.

Imran Khan rebuffs PM Shehbaz’s criticism, vows not to target state institutions ISLAMABAD staff report

Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on Monday rebuffed the allegations of targeting state institutions, saying that he will never do anything to damage the country saying he will

always live here and never escape to London like former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The former premier has been accused of targeting the military, albeit in a subtle manner. In his latest public rally on Sunday in Abbottabad, the PTI chairman once again said “only animals were neutral” in remarks apparently aimed at the military leadership,

which did not take any side when he was ousted from power through a no-trust move.

The remarks prompted a response from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying that Imran’s speech was “a grand conspiracy against Pakistan” and its institutions.

The premier’s statement came on the heels of military spokesperson’s statement

warning politicians, journalists and analysts against dragging Pakistan Army and its leadership in the country’s political affairs, saying that the practice is “extremely damaging”.

“Imran Khan will live and die in Pakistan… I have no properties abroad. I have no bank accounts I will never escape to London… We have to live here. We know the

importance of strong institutions whether it is the army or judiciary… we will never damage our country because we will always live here,” Imran Khan said while addressing party workers in Islamabad. Criticising PM Shehbaz for pointing fingers at him, he said his elder brother used to badmouth the army and that too only after leaving the country.

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