Suspects involved in Islamabad suicide bombing detained: Sanaullah

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said on Tuesday that the suspects and handlers involved in last week’s Islamabad suicide bombing have been arrested. A policeman was martyred and at least six others—including four policemen—were injured in the car bombing on Friday, the first suicide attack in the federal capital in more than eight years. "We have arrested the suspects of the Islamabad terrorist attack and have also detaine dtheir handlers," the interior minister said in a tweet. “The taxi driver was innocent and had no role in the attack. The terrorists moved from Kurram Agency and stayed in Rawalpindi. We have detained four or five suspects,” he added. اسلام آباد دھشتگرد حملے کے ملزمان گرفتار کر لیے ہیں اور ہینڈلرز کو بھی پکڑ لیا گیا ہے۔ ٹیکسی ڈرائیور بے گناہ تھا اسکا کوئی قصور نہیں تھا؛ ملزم نے ہائیر نے کیا تھا۔ دھشتگرد کرم ایجنسی سے چلے اور راولپنڈی میں ٹھہرے۔ ہم نے چار پانچ لوگوں کو راؤنڈ آپ کیا ہے۔ — Rana SanaUllah Khan (@RanaSanaullahPK) December 27, 2022 Following the attack, Deputy Inspector General of Police Sohail Zafar Chattha had said the police spotted a "suspicious vehicle" in the I-10/4 sector at around 10:15am with a man and a woman inside. He added that the vehicle was stopped by the Eagle Squad. “The two came out of the vehicle. The man with long hair, while being checked by the officers, went inside the vehicle for some reason, and detonated himself," DIG Chattha said. “As a result, a police officer from the Eagle Squad was martyred and four others were injured in the incident.” The bombing, claimed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), took place near the police headquarters on the main road leading to government buildings housing the parliament and other high offices. Also read: JIT to investigate Islamabad suicide blast Since then, Islamabad has been on high alert and security arrangements have been tightened. It was the first suicide attack in Islamabad since the courthouse bombing in 2014 that killed 10 people. ‘Special security plan’ In light of rising security concerns, the Islamabad police on Tuesday issued a 'special' plan, keeping security on high alert. In accordance with the plan, the police have set up 25 temporary checkposts across the city and are constantly monitoring the entry points of Islamabad's Red Zone area with the use of Safe City cameras. In an early morning tweet, the police furthered that they are also monitoring metro service passengers through video recordings. "Legal action will be taken against unspecified number plates and unregistered vehicles," the police stated, directing citizens to ensure their number plates were issued by the excise office. They have also requested foreign nationals to carry their identification documents with them and asked landlords to "register tenants and employees at the nearest police station or service centres." The Islamabad police maintained that those employing unregistered local or foreign workers will be investigated. The police also instructed citizens to report any unusual activity on the 15-helpline. The plan comes two days after the US, UK, Saudi Arabian and Australian governments issued advisories to their respective citizens in Pakistan, prohibiting their nationals in the country from visiting a five-star hotel in Islamabad because of the possible threat of a terrorist attack.

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IHC surprised at 200m claim for Islamabad's population

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday expressed surprise when it was revealed that the population of the federal capital is mentioned as 200 million in a summary during the hearing of the local body election case. The court questioned the veracity of the claim given that Pakistan's population numbers around 222 million. The IHC was hearing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) appeal to hold local body elections in Islamabad on December 31. PTI challenged the decision of the single bench of the IHC to nullify the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) earlier verdict and hear all stakeholders before deciding on holding elections on December 31. The party claimed that increasing the number of union councils, days before the poll's scheduled date, is of "no importance" and prayed that the single bench decision be annulled and ECP's decision on the matter restored.  PTI's counsel stated that just 11 days ago, the government increased the number of union councils from 101 to 125 after claiming that the population of the city has increased. Responding to the court's earlier question regarding the population of the federal capital, the lawyer replied that 205 million is written in the approved summary. He further claimed that the government increased the number of union councils to 101 according to the city's population six months ago, and is now further increasing local seats to 125. Read ECP postpones Islamabad local body polls PTI's counsel also questioned the government's claim of population increase. Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani said that when PTI was in power, it did not hold by-polls, as is the case with the present government. "Maybe it suits political parties not to hold local elections," he said. The PTI lawyer repeatedly pleaded to stop the ECP from giving its decision today, saying that it should not give a decision on the matter till tomorrow or else the decision would be made subject to the decision of the court. The court, while rejecting the request for an immediate injunction on PTI's appeal, said that it will decide in the plea on Wednesday after hearing all parties. The hearing was then adjourned till tomorrow.

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ECP postpones Islamabad local body polls

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday postponed local body elections in Islamabad which were earlier scheduled for December 31.   During a hearing related to the matter, presided over by the chief election commissioner, Advocate General Jahangir Jadoon and former attorney general Ashtar Ausaf appeared on behalf of the federal government and argued in support of expanding union councils in the federal capital.  Ausaf argued that the population of Islamabad has increased, which in turn, has increased the need for more union councils. He added that previously, the number of union councils was increased from 50 to 101.  Countering the argument, Member Nisar Durrani stated that the number of union councils was expanded to 101 in June, and wondered how has the population of the federal capital increased by a significant number since then.  Another member, Ikramullah Khan, said ECP data shows that there has been no significant increase in the city's population. The CEC stated that the electoral body has conducted delimitation of constituencies twice in the federal capital and asked why did the federal government consider expanding the number of union councils earlier.  The counsel of PTI leader Ali Nawaz Awan, Babar Awan, opposed an increase in local body seats and said the relevant bill has not been passed yet and added it may not receive final approval as of yet.  Awan urged the electoral body to hold the elections on Dec 31. The lawyer representing the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Hasan Javed, also argued in favour of holding the local body polls. He further said the people of the federal capital have not had representation at the union council level for the past two years.  Hearing arguments from both sides, the electoral watchdog decided to approve the federal government's plea and postponed the local body polls in Islamabad.  The commission stated in the decision that the elections were postponed as a result of a ruling by the Islamabad High Court (IHC). 

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Islamabad issues 'special' plan amid rising security concerns

In light of rising security concerns, the Islamabad police on Tuesday issued a 'special' plan, keeping security on high alert. In accordance with the plan, the police have set up 25 temporary checkposts across the city and are constantly monitoring the entry points of Islamabad's Red Zone area with the use of Safe City cameras. In an early morning tweet, the police furthered that they are also monitoring metro service passengers through video recordings. موجودہ سیکورٹی صورتحال کے پیش نظر خصوصی سیکورٹی پلان کا اجراء۔ اسلام آباد میں 25 مختلف مقامات پر عارضی حفاظتی چیک پوسٹس قائم کی گئی ہیں۔ ریڈ زون کے داخلی راستوں کی سیف سٹی کیمروں سے ریکارڈنگ کی جائے گی۔ میٹرو سروس کے مسافروں کی ویڈیو ریکارڈنگ کی جائے گی۔ 1/3 — Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) December 27, 2022 "Legal action will be taken against unspecified number plates and unregistered vehicles," the police stated, directing citizens to ensure their number plates were issued by the excise office. They have also requested foreign nationals to carry their identification documents with them and asked landlords to "register tenants and employees at the nearest police station or service centres." The Islamabad police maintained that those employing unregistered local or foreign workers will be investigated. Read US embassy restricts staff movement in Islamabad The police also instructed citizens to report any unusual activity on the 15-helpline. The plan comes two days after the US, UK, Saudi Arabian and Australian governments issued advisories to their respective citizens in Pakistan, prohibiting their nationals in the country from visiting a five-star hotel in Islamabad because of the possible threat of a terrorist attack.  The unprecedented advisory and threat alert were issued after a police official embraced martyrdom and several others were injured when a suicide bomber blew himself up during a check-up in Sector I-10 of Islamabad. This was the first suicide attack in the federal capital in more than eight years, police officials and witnesses had said. The bombing, claimed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), took place near the police headquarters on the main road leading to government buildings housing the parliament and other high offices. Since then, Islamabad has been on high alert and security arrangements have been tightened.

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Road, railway connectivity with Central Asian states to promote peace in region: PM

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said road and railway connectivity projects between Pakistan and Central Asian states will not only bring the trade communities together, but also usher in a new era of peace and prosperity in the region. The premier said this during a meeting with a high-level delegation from Uzbekistan led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Investment and Foreign Trade Khodjaev Jamshid Abdukhakimovich in Islamabad. The premier appreciated the fruitful discussion between the business communities of the two countries "as establishing business-to-business contacts would enhance bilateral trade and investment". Recalling his recent meetings with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Samarkand and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Summit in Astana, Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to further enhance the existing ties between the two brotherly countries. The delegation apprised the prime minister of their meetings in Pakistan during which it was agreed to enhance economic and trade ties between the two countries. They expressed satisfaction that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan are further deepening and the pace of interaction is moving at a positive trajectory. A day earlier, Pakistan and Uzbekistan signed an agreement to implement the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), which would take effect from February 1, 2023, aimed at enhancing the trade volume to $1 billion. Read Pakistan to host CARs trade summit: PM To overcome the problems being faced by Pakistani and Uzbek transporters, both countries agreed to take up all the relevant issues with the Afghan authorities. This will be done in a joint visit to Kabul to be undertaken in the last week of January 2023, after finalising a joint agenda to be presented to the Afghan side. In addition to this agreement, the countries signed eight other agreements to boost bilateral relations in different sectors. The Uzbek side will complete internal formalities in January 2023 while the Pakistan side has already completed the same to implement the PTA from February 1, 2023. Federal Minister for Commerce Syed Naveed Qamar signed MoUs with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Khodjave Jamshid Abdukhakimovich. Both sides discussed the implementation of the agreement between Uzbekistan and Pakistan on Transit Trade (AUPTT). Uzbekistan will notify rules in this regard in February 2023. Both sides agreed to formulate a joint strategy to facilitate transit trade through Afghanistan. A regional unnderstanding on transit and trade framework is to be prepared including a joint funding mechanism for upkeep of road infrastructure in Afghanistan.

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Pindi mill owners increase flour price by Rs125 per kg

Mill owners have further increased the price of flour by Rs125 per kilogram in violation of the government’s notified rate. The crisis of flour and wheat has reached new heights after the shortage of supply from mills. After flour mills, the owners of 550 Atta Chakkies across the district have also increased the price of flour to Rs125 per kg. Meanwhile, the Naanbai association has announced that if the price of wheat and flour was not reduced by December 30, prices of roti, naan and paratha will be increased by Rs10 from January 1. Naanbais said that they cannot sell roti and naan at government-approved rates as they are buying flour at high prices. There has also been a crisis of subsidized flour bags in the market. The prices of flour and wheat have continuously been increasing in the last couple of days. In the open market, the price of a 100-kilogram wheat bag is available at Rs9,000, while the bag of maida has reached a record high of Rs10,500. In the open market, a 15 kg bag of flour is being sold at Rs1,875 at the ex-mill rate, while flour dealers sell it for Rs1,910 and Rs1,940. The government-subsidised flour is being sold at Rs1,295 per 20 kg while the 10 kg bag is being sold at Rs650. The flour mills association said that they were supplying 180,000 subsidised atta bags per day in the entire district and now it has been increased to 200,000 per day. Flour Dealers’ Association President Zahoor Bhatti said that wheat from the government quota was being sold in black and at a higher price. The price of wheat has reached Rs4,200 per mound and the supply of subsidised flour has also been reduced. Atta Chakki Union Vice-President Waheed Qureshi said that they were getting wheat between Rs115 and Rs120 per kg from the open market. “The grinding cost of one kg is Rs12. Resultantly, Chakkis are forced to sell flour at Rs125 per kg. If the price of wheat is not reduced, it will increase further next week,” the union leader said. Published in The Express Tribune, December 27th, 2022.

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IHC seeks Toshakhana gifts report from cabinet

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday sought a report from the Cabinet Division on a petition seeking implementation of the decision of the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) regarding the provision of Toshakhana gifts details since 1947 till date. Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb heard the petition regarding the matter. Deputy Attorney General Syed Ahsan Raza Shah apprised the court that he was not sure whether the Toshakhana record before 1990 was available. “Such information should be present on websites,” he added. The court instructed sharing of the record if available with the petitioner. The petitioner’s counsel Waseem Abid said the Cabinet Division had refused to share the requested information on the grounds that it was classified. Read PTI ‘notices’ perceptible change in army’s approach The PIC had issued an order on June 29 in that regard, he added. Justice Aurangzeb asked why the petitioner (Abuzar Salman Khan Niazi) was limiting the information to the extent of former presidents and prime ministers, and why the public servants should not be included in the list. "This shows your intention," Justice Aurangzeb remarked. He added that any petition like this was only related to the prime minister. The court adjourned the case till next date. Earlier this month, the Lahore High Court (LHC) sought the details of gifts taken from the Toshakhana since 1947. Justice Asim Hafeez sought details of the Toshakhana gifts on citizen Munir Ahmed's plea. During the hearing, federal government's lawyer apprised the court that the details could not be provided. However, the court directed the authorities concerned to submit the details of gifts taken from Toshakhana since 1947, by January 16. PTI chief Imran Khan was facing a scandal regarding the Toshakhana gifts for allegedly indulging in corrupt practices, which the former premier denies. AC issues detailed verdict Accountability Judge Muhammad Bashir on Monday issued the detailed judgment regarding returning National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) Toshakhana reference against former president Asif Zardari and former prime ministers Yousuf Raza Gilani and Nawaz Sharif. Read More Saudis join others to issue terror alert in Pakistan The judgment said that the lawyers argued that the reference regarding alleged corruption worth Rs118.52 million, while after the latest amendments to the NAB laws, the accountability court did not have the jurisdiction over cases involving less than Rs500 million. It said that Section 5 (O) was inserted in the NAB Ordinance, under which, only the cases involving Rs500 million or more came under the jurisdiction of the accountability court. Therefore, it added that the reference was sent back to the NAB chairman to send it to the relevant forum.

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Saudi Arabia issues security advice for its citizens in Pakistan

Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Islamabad on Monday urged its citizens in Pakistan to exercise caution and avoid going out “except for necessity” folowing last week's suicide bombing in Islamabad and rising terrorist attacks in the country. “The embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan would like to warn all citizens residing and visiting the Islamic Republic of Pakistan of the need to take caution and not go out except for necessity, given that the authorities in the capital, Islamabad, have raised the security alert to the highest level,” the embassy said in a statement on Twitter. #تنبيه pic.twitter.com/6A7Q7z3lAl — السفارة في باكستان - سعودی سفارت خانہ (@KSAembassyPK) December 26, 2022 In case of emergency, the statement asked the citizens to contact the embassy or the Consulate General in Karachi. The development comes a day after the US issued a security alert warning of a possible terrorist attack targeting American citizens at a private hotel in the federal capital. A statement issued by the US Embassy in Islamabad on Sunday said the US government staff prohibited from visiting the private hotel in the federal capital due to possible attack. Also read: US embassy restricts staff movement in Islamabad The US government is aware of information that unidentified individuals are possibly plotting to attack Americans at the private hotel in Islamabad “sometime during the holidays”, the statement added. The unprecedented advisory and threat alerts came after a police official was martyred and several others injured when suicide bomber blew himself up during check-up in I-10 sector of Islamabad on December 23. There have been spike in terrorist attacks ever since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul. Official data shows since August 2021 Pakistan recorded 420 terrorist attacks. In the last three months alone, the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility of 141 attacks. A major review is currently underway to devise a new strategy to deal with the resurgence of TTP militants. Official sources believe that a military operation to stem the fresh tide of terrorism is on the cards. A meeting of the National Security Committee is expected in next couple of weeks to take major decisions.

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ECP directs lawmakers to submit asset details by Dec 31

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday directed all members of parliament and provincial assemblies to submit their statements of assets and liabilities, including those of their spouses and dependents, by December 31. According to ECP, all parliamentarians have to submit their yearly statements of assets and liabilities, including similar details of their spouses and dependent children, on the preceding June 30 on Form B for the financial year 2021-2022. The commission, on the first day of January each year, publishes the names of members who fail to submit the requisite statement of assets and liabilities within the period specified under sub-section (1). Also read: ECP plans to tighten code of conduct for polls Subsequently, the commission will suspend the membership of a member of an assembly or Senate on January 16, who fails to submit the statement of assets and liabilities “and such Member shall cease to function till (s) he files the statement of assets and liabilities”. The ECP further said that any member submitting a fake statement of assets and liabilities under this section in material particulars may, within 120 days from the date of submission of the statement, be proceeded against for committing the offense of corrupt practice. The ECP said that the prescribed form, along with instructions and guidelines prepared in this regard, can be obtained free of charge from the Election Commission of Pakistan Secretariat, Islamabad, offices of provincial election commissioners in each province, Senate Secretariat, National Assembly, and secretariats of provincial assemblies. “Form B can also be downloaded from the ECP’s website www.ecp.gov.pk.”

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PM confident about steering country out of economic crisis

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday expressed the resolve that despite myriad economic challenges, including the post-flood situation, the coalition government was determined to steer the country out of the current economic crisis. Addressing a ceremony after laying foundation stones of different infrastructure projects in DI Khan, the prime minister said, “These challenges might be manifold but 220 million people of the country should not get worried, the coalition government with the support of its partners will steer the country out of the challenges.” “Nations always faced difficulties and the coalition government will put Pakistan on the path of development only through hard work,” he added. Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Haji Ghulam Ali, Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb, Advisor to PM on Political Affairs Engineer Amir Muqam, Amir of Jammiat-e-Ulema Islam-F Maulana Fazlur Rehman, relevant authorities and a large number of people were present on the occasion. The prime minister said that he had laid down the foundations for the commencement of mega-development projects in the backward areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's southern districts. He mentioned that during his previous visits, these areas were inundated with flood water and the people had faced immense destruction, from Nowshera to Swat, Kalam, Kohistan, DI Khan and Tank districts were badly affected by floods. Destruction in Swat was caused mainly due to man-made structures in the middle of the river's course, he said, and criticized the provincial government of PTI for its flawed policies. The premier sarcastically said that the PTI provincial government always talked about the introduction of an efficient system, but the people had witnessed the crumbling of that system whereas the government’s blunders in this regard could not be neglected. The prime minister said that the federal government had allocated a huge amount of Rs90 billion for the flood-affected populace and each affected family was given Rs25,000 each besides, ensuring the provision of medicine and food. The magnitude of the disaster was huge, he said, adding the on January 9, a donors’ conference would be held in Geneva and they would remind the world that the climate-induced calamity was the result of global carbon emissions by developed nations. Pakistan had less than one percent of carbon imprints, but it had been pummeled by the extreme weather due to carbon emissions by developed countries, he opined.

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FO says ‘no ban’ by UAE on visas for Pakistanis from specific cities

Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch on Monday confirmed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had not banned or blacklisted the issuance of visas to Pakistanis belonging to specific cities. “We have seen the reports. We can confirm that no such ban is in place by UAE for the issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens,” said the spokesperson. The response by the FO came in view of the queries by journalists on reports of blacklisting or ban by the UAE on the issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens belonging to specific cities. The UAE also strongly denied reports of not providing visas to Pakistani citizens belonging to certain cities, terming it as “fake news”. Consulate General of the UAE Karachi Bakheet Ateeq Al Remeithi said that no such ban had been imposed by the UAE government. Read: UAE announces 10 types of new entry, residence visas Last month, the UAE government revised the naming guidelines for allowing entry into the Emirates. Pakistan passengers with a single name on their passports will not be allowed to enter the UAE, said Pakistan’s private airline quoting revised naming guidelines. “The UAE government has revised the naming guidelines for allowing entry in the Emirates. As per the guideline update, passengers holding passports with [only] a single name and no other name – including, father name/family name – will not be accepted,” Serene Air said. Pakistan-UAE is one of the busiest air routes as South Asian nationals account for the second largest expatriate community in the UAE, totalling around 1.6 million.

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Dog breeders defrauding people

The appeal of keeping pure-bred dogs as pets has led to an uptick in the breeding business, with farms popping up all over the country, but it has also created room for fraudsters to exploit dog lovers. Primarily, a lack of dogs with verifiable pedigrees, which is the record of its descent showing it is pure-bred, aids fraud in breeding. Since there is no law requiring breeding farm owners to maintain such records, they can hoodwink first time owners easily, by selling them mixed breed dogs. “This rising trend of tricking people by selling them a low quality breed instead of a pure-bred dog is quite worrying for the dog lovers community in the country,” opined Chaudhry Farhan Anwar, Member of various International Dog Clubs and of the Government Task Force associated with the Punjab Wildlife Department. Anwar said that he was personally aware of many people who sold puppies in wellknown bazaars and pet stores across Lahore by claiming them to be pure-bred German Shepherds. “Similarly, many breeding farms also deceive people by either not giving buyers the dog’s pedigree or forging one,” he informed. Anwar was of the view that the only way the practice could be curbed was if the law mandated breeders to keep authentic pedigrees according to international standards. “Pedigrees or a breed register stores all information about the dog’s lineage and if its ancestors were the same breed as it, then it is considered to be of a pure breed,” explained Anwar. Although buying mixed breed dogs is not the end of the world, Nasir Malik, Secretary of the Kennel Club Pakistan, believes that mixed breeds do not get used to homes or humans the same way as pure-bred dogs do. “Often when people get a dog they get confused when their dog is not comfortable in its new surroundings, that is because the dog is not of a pure breed,” he informed. Like Anwar, Malik said that he was aware of many pet shops in Lahore which were duping people into believing that they sold pure-bred dogs. Even if it is not pet shops, Malik identified that selling through social media websites like Instagram and Facebook or through online classifieds provides a protective cover to breeders’ efforts to trick people into believing that the dogs they sell are from a pure bloodline. “People should be wary of the fraudsters when they go to buy a dog as there is no way to certify a dog’s breed in Pakistan like there is in European countries, or the United States,” cautioned Malik, adding that people should go to reputable breeding farms only. “There are also efforts underway to start the process of keeping pedigrees for dogs. Until then, the government should frame necessary rules and regulations for dog clubs and breeding farms,” suggested Malik while talking to The Express Tribune.

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IHC to hear plea seeking Toshakhana details since 1947

  The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has fixed for urgent hearing a petition seeking details of the gifts received by the heads of state since the establishment of Pakistan. According to Express News, Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb will hear the request regarding the provision of details of Toshakhana on Monday, December 26, in the IHC. The petitioner took the position that the details of the gifts received by the prime ministers and presidents should be provided. In the petition, it has been argued that the Information Commission ordered the government to provide Toshakhana details on June 29, 2022, so that order should be implemented. The petitioner asked that the details of the market value of the gifts and the price charged should also be provided. Cabinet Division and Information Commission have been made party in the application of Advocate Abuzar Salman Niazi. It is worth mentioning here that earlier this month the Lahore High Court (LHC) had also sought details of gifts since 1947. The court's directives came on a plea for details of dignitaries, bureaucrats and officials who had obtained the gifts. Justice Asim Hafeez questioned secrecy on the matter, remarking that when any person buys a gift from the Toshakhana they are required to mention them in their tax returns. He then issued directives for submission of details by January 16, adding that it was up to the court to decide whether the details should be kept secret. In his petition filed through Senior Advocate Azhar Siddique, Munir Ahmed pointed out that on April 20 this year, the IHC had directed the cabinet to disclose all information and specifications in relation to all the gifts received by Imran Khan during his tenure as prime minister.

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Hamza likely to return in January amid Punjab crisis

  As political crisis simmers in the political capital, PML-N leader and former Punjab chief minister Hamza Shehbaz is likely to return to Pakistan in the first week of January, sources said on Sunday. According to sources, the PML-N stalwart is returning home on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The former provincial chief Hamza would preside over a meeting of the PML-N and coalition partners’ parliamentary parties, sources said. Earlier this month, the leader of the opposition in Punjab Assembly had left for London and reportedly stayed there for two weeks to meet PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif. It is pertinent to note that his return comes at a time when the ruling coalition and PTI-PML-Q alliance in the political capital are at loggerheads over the future of the Punjab Assembly. Moreover, following the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) decision to reinstate Pervaiz Elahi as chief minister and the PDM’s efforts to recapture the lost citadel, PML-N leaders have hinted that the post would go to Hamza Shehbaz. Meanwhile, CM Elahi – who has provided a guarantee to LHC that he wouldn’t exercise his powers to dissolve the assembly till next hearing – has asserted that the plan to scuttle the provincial legislature will be implemented after securing a vote of confidence from the assembly. Earlier, during interactions with the media in Islamabad, Punjab Assembly Speaker Sibtain Khan stated that Elahi will dissolve assemblies after obtaining the vote of confidence since they were moving towards immediate polls.

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Call to allocate 35% of climate budget for WASH

A joint ceremony on “Climate Financing for WASH” was organised and launched by IRC and the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) on Sunday. The idea was undertaken by IRC researchers, who focused on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene WASH, they called it a pillar of climate resilience that needs adequate funding as currently, the WASH sector receives only 22% of the total climate funding. The launch was led by Habib ur Rehman and followed by a panel discussion on climate financing for WASH. It calls upon international donors to allocate at least 35% of climate-related budget for WASH raising it from the existing 22% for Pakistan and prioritizing climate-related funding to the countries which are currently unlikely to achieve the WASH SDGs. In her welcome remarks, the IRC Country Director Shabnam Baloch said that “WASH is critical entry point to reducing community vulnerability to climate impacts, closing gender gaps, health and education disparity, economic inclusion and progress. Climate resilient WASH goes beyond climate infrastructure and is critical in climate induced disasters”. Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2022.

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Nisar welcomes army’s decision to stay ‘apolitical’

Former interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Friday welcomed the decision of Pakistan Army to stay away from politics, saying, that they should do their job and the politicians theirs. Talking to media persons here, he denied rumours of forming his own political party, revealing that he was in touch with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as well as the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Nisar said, “I have a relationship of respect and honour with PTI Chairman Imran Khan. “I have been in the PML-N, and I have good relations with him. I am in touch with the PML-N and the PTI and will take a decision after consulting the people of the constituency.” He said, “It may also be that I contest the election as an independent candidate.” The former minister also expressed the desire to be kept away from the political situation in Punjab. “Ever since I was born, I have heard that accountability is happening, but when accountability happened, it was unilateral,” he said. Before his media talk, Nisar addressed the people of his constituency, where he requested the media to turn off the cameras. However, he did not stop them from reporting the meeting. Addressing the public, he said, “I am not so satisfied with my performance of serving my people. My friends have started a political campaign today.” He added, “I will contest the election myself from PP-10 constituency and will field my candidates from PP-12 constituency.” He said, “Today, there are accusations against bigwigs. I am sitting silently because nowadays politics of abuse is happening.” Nisar said, “I will not speak against the party I worked for. Imran Khan is very good to me. I will not speak against him either.” The former minister said that the politics of PML-N and PTI had now turned into enmity. “Whoever succeeded from my constituency did nothing for its people and defamed the country with a fake degree,” he added. On the political situation, he said that there were serious threats to the country. “The distinction between truth and falsehood has ended. However, you will not be ashamed if you vote for me. I stand with the truth. I will stand with the truth,” Nisar said. Flaying nowadays’ politics, where party chiefs call the shots, he said that “this is not politics” because “in politics, there are disagreements”. “If my opponent has delivered even a one-tenth of what he promised, vote for him,” he added. “If you vote for me. You will not be ashamed. People used to tell me that ‘if you remain silent, people will forget you’,” he added.

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If the Bosporus could talk

The turquoise expanse of the Bosporus is perhaps one of the most striking features of Istanbul’s landscape. As you head towards the city centre leaving Ataturk airport behind, the water channel seems like an omnipresence, compelling passers-by to gaze upon its radiance. Running across Istanbul, separating the East from the West, the Bosporus is truly the point where the twain meet in a fantastic union. Situated between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, it is the narrowest navigational strait that connects the Mediterranean, the Aegean and the Black Sea through its winding path across Istanbul. The Bosporus has also remained the strategic centre of geo-political upheavals since over a thousand years. Whether it was under the command of the Persian king Darius; navigated by the founder of the Ottoman rule, Mehmet the 1st or dominated by Ataturk during the battle of Gallipoli, the Bosporus has been the centre of cataclysmic changes. Crossed by countless travellers for centuries past, if it could but speak, it would have many tales to tell ― of victors as well as the vanquished. For a history buff, Turkey is a dream destination. But for anyone with even a passing interest in history, it offers the mingled flavours of a rich past with abounding art and architecture as well as a progressive present, replete with avant-garde fashions and freeways. Turkey’s past can be traced from the Palaeolithic age and since then many civilisations from the Greeks to the Persians have had a home there. Subsequently, Alexander’s adventures in the region brought it more recognition and till the days of the Byzantine Empire, its presence on the world map was quite formidable. Its glory was however properly recognised during the Ottoman rule which is by far one of the peak times of Muslim rule, as the Ottoman Empire marked the largest Muslim territory to span the East and the West when at its zenith. It rivalled the Roman Empire during its glory years particularly from the 14th to the 17th century. Turkey’s history is much beyond the scope of a few hundred words. From the world’s first temple to the remnants of the Neolithic age and then onto the mosques of the Sultanate of Rum, there are thousands of miles to cover for any archaeologist or historian. A visit to Istanbul would equal merely a step for the average traveller towards the grandeur that Constantinople once had. But that one step too would be quite a giant leap in itself! To begin with, Istanbul has an uneven terrain and visitors are advised to wear extremely comfortable, walking shoes. Built as a replica of Old Rome, this unique city intrigued Westerners since it was Constantinople and they flocked by sea or land to explore its treasure. Today, it is still flocked by travellers ― a high average of whom are from Pakistan ― but more so because of the culture made famous by its entertainment industry. And then there’s also the uniqueness of it straddling Europe and Asia which adds the kick for the average desi at a reduced price point. To put it simply, Istanbul is a gorgeous city. Founded on seven hills with the city walls surrounding them it was once called Nova Roma (new Rome). The hills are visible along the Golden Horn if you take a ride on the Bosporus or if you are crossing over from old Istanbul to the modern side, where the coastline along the Horn is visible from the Ataturk Bridge. If visiting for a limited number of days (which most of us do), it is best to have a definite plan of which parts of Istanbul are to be visited as that determines the ideal options for lodgings. A week is barely enough to cover all of Istanbul as each district has so many historical edifices to explore. Most tourists on numbered days and a modest budget stick to residing in Sultanahmet ― the oldest locality of Istanbul and the location of most of its historic sites. Other neighbourhoods within the city such as Tophane, Taksim and Cihangir (in the Beyoglu district, separated from Sultanahmet by the Golden Horn) also have some amazing sites to offer like a Venetian Palazzo and the Doge of Venice`s mansion among others. The last time I visited I went to Ortakoy also and that too is highly recommended for visitors especially to see the sun set on Istanbul. With limited days, if Sultanahmet is all you can cover, then too Istanbul is worth it. Just within that old city the entire past of Turkey, the Ottoman Empire and the remnants of Constantinople will all come alive. Built on the first of the seven hills, Sultanahmet has five top of the list sites that every first time travel must see ― the Topkapi Serayi; the Blue Mosque; the Hagia Sophia; the Basillica Cistern and the Dolmabahce Palace. Ever since the heist film Topkapi, the Museum/Palace has held a lure for many of us. And amongst the artefacts on display within the Topkapi Museum, the bejewelled dagger meant for Nadir Shah also has a special place with the additional information that this was the piece featured in the film. All the art pieces have such great historic significance that one comes out in a daze after visiting all the galleries. With the architecture typically reminiscent of Ottoman style ― domes upon domes upon domes ― there are hundreds of rooms within but only a few are open to the public. Amongst its treasures are porcelain pottery, Islamic calligraphy manuscripts, royal robes, weaponry, jewellery and thousands of other treasures. The more noteworthy items belong to the section of Holy Relics which contains the staff of Hazrat Musa (AS), the water bowl of Hazrat Ibrahim(AS), the sword of Hazrat Dawood (AS) and of course, the footprints of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) along with his mantle and swords of his sahabah. There are actually many, many such items and of course none of them can be photographed so one has to record them in memory. Following the serialising of the Turkish drama – Mera Sultan ― on our local TV, the Topkapi Palace has also gained more awareness and one is more familiar with court life which is what induced me to give the extra fare to visit the Harem attached to the Museum grounds. It was fascinating to see and pass under the same archways through which the concubines of the Ottoman Sultans walked for their daily learning lessons in court (as seen on the show). That was where Alexandra aka Roxanne aka Hurum Khatoon had reportedly fainted in the Sultan Sulaiyman’s arms to gain his attention and from there on enslaving him to change the destinies of future Sultans. One note may be made here that visitors are better advised to do prior research of all the places to be visited because information is scant and English is not one of the spoken languages. It is surprising that such a popular destination for tourists and all sorts of other travellers, almost all signs and notices are only in Turkish. Even the locals have the most minimal fluency in English. Just to explain further, it was a near impossible task at a café to ask for milk in my coffee (not a common practice). I had my coffee black ― because, caffeine, duh! ― but I made a point to go to the local store and find out what milk is called. For anyone noting, it’s called ‘Sut’. Walking up from the Topkapi Palace one arrives at the Hippodrome ― a central complex which has the Hagia Sophia on one side and the Blue Mosque on the other. The Hagia Sophia is a must visit. It encapsulates the wisdom of two of the world’s most prominent religions ― Islam and Christianity ― and portrays how these can survive in harmony under one roof, or rather, dome. The massive dome that characterises this Byzantine architecture is another one of those, ‘to be experienced’ places. Even massive seems like an understatement as it makes one feel that it is a portion of the sky under which one is standing. Now a museum, The Hagia Sophia (pronounced Aya Sofia) is the second most popular site in Turkey. But it wasn’t always this amalgam of religious beliefs. It first served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral during the middle ages (6th century to the 15th century). For a while it was also converted to a Roman Catholic Church and eventually it was turned into a mosque by orders of the first Ottoman conqueror, Sultan Mehmed II. Upon this conversion, it was shorn of all the Christian relics ― bells, altar, iconostasis, sacrificial vessels and murals depicting Jesus, Mary and other Christian saints. In place of these, a mehrab, myanbar and four minaars were added to turn it into a mosque, which way it remained until 1931 when it was closed and eventually re-opened under Ataturk’s governance as a museum depicting its dual past. As a museum, it beautifully encapsulates its past with huge calligraphic art adorning the tiny domes, next to the murals of Jesus, Mary and the concepts of Holy Trinity. A beautifully scripted Allah in Arabic in gigantic point size flanked on four sides by comparably large calligraphy of the names of the four Khalifas dominate the sides of the ceiling which is also surrounded by murals of winged angels. And then there is the Michelangelo style birth of Christ imagery which is as awesome. If one shifts the gaze downward towards the myanbar, there is the altar standing almost as majestically. The peace that emanates through the building can almost be touched with finger tips. And one wonders ― why can’t the real world be this beautiful in its tolerance? The interior walls of the cathedral/mosque/museum are decorated with gold mosaic whereas the floors are white marble. Situated a little apart from these three primary tourist attractions, is the Dolmabahce Palace which is located at the very edge of the European bank of the Bosporus strait. The shiny blue water mass almost twinkles at the visitors standing in the Palace Gardens, forming perhaps one of the most picturesque backdrops in Istanbul ― especially for photography purposes. The Palace site was actually an imperial garden in the 18th century from where the Palace gets its name Dolmabahce, meaning, ‘filled-in garden’. As per general web information, “the construction cost five million Ottoman mecidiye gold coins which is 35 tonnes of gold and the approximate equivalent of $1.5 billion in today's values. Reportedly, this sum corresponded to approximately a quarter of the yearly tax revenue of Turkey. The rooms are as grand as one may imagine and the ceilings are heavily gilded in places. Crystal and gold define its interiors along with the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier which hangs in the ceremonial Hall ― a gift from Queen Victoria. Dolmabahce palace became the official residence of later Ottoman Sultans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was also used as the presidential summer residence by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk who also spent his last years in residence at the Palace where he later died on November 10, 1938. Ataturk’s bedroom, his wheelchair where he breathed his last, his writing table and the slippers near his bed speak more of history then all the grandeur within the Palace. In fact, it may be said that the outrageously expensive construction of the Palace was perhaps the start of the financial ruin of Turkey when it was forced to declare a state bankruptcy. The grandeur, the expanding horizons and might of the Ottomans could not withstand the court intrigues of the Royal women and the decadence of the later year Sultans who rendered the monarchy weak. The financial ruin was the last nail as Turkey began being gradually dismantled after World War 1. If it hadn’t been for Kemal Ataturk ― already the hero of Gallipoli at the time ― Turkey as a strong Asian/European nation would not have remained. He raised the initiative and defeated the Greek and the English while simultaneously getting rid of the Sultanate to change the remnants of the Ottoman from Sultanate to the Republic of Turkey. Now, this unique country that straddles more than one continent, ocean and seas is possibly the most historic and strategically crucial centre of the world. If you had time for just one more site to visit before you leave the city, I would strongly recommend the Basilica Cistern. Besides the fact that the Cistern has been used as the location in films and books ― Dan Brown’s mystery, Inferno is an example – the Basilica Cistern is a space to experience and feel. A Basilica ― which in earlier days referred to an open palatial ground or the tribunal chamber of kings ― was supposedly the original site of this cistern, from whence it got this name. The cistern was built under the Palace Basilica to provide a water filtration system to the Palace of Constantinople and to the surrounding buildings on the First Hill. As per internet information, 7000 slaves were involved in the construction of these ancient water works. But what an extraordinary piece of construction it is. The moment one descends to this underworld maze of water ducts, it seems that one has stepped into ancient Rome itself and from where Juno might come floating to play mischief on unsuspecting visitors. The dark tunnels have a stunning symmetry and coupled with the faint sound of water as background music, the vision is truly awe inspiring of the greatness of ancient architects and labourers alike. The Basilica Cistern continued to filter and distribute water over the centuries, even to the Topkapi Palace during the Ottoman rule and into the modern times. While history never ends in Istanbul, there is much more that dots the landscape besides historic edifices. As the sun sets, the large and small chai cafes come alive everywhere in the city, particularly in the entire area of Taksim Square where the cafes serving bakhlava and aromatic teas beckon to everyone with a heady aroma. In flavours like peach, apple, strawberry, etc (all tea is strictly black ― milk and tea together is like blasphemy for a Turk!) the teas are literally divine drinks of the gods! The baklava, in itself a rich sweet is served with huge dollops of creamy ice cream. Calorie counting can wait on this trip. And then there are the chestnut sellers every few meters selling roasted chestnuts with masala standing next to the small, mussel vendors selling boiled mussels in half split shells with a garnish of lemon. The quaint trams that run in several directions everywhere across the city, are another part of Istanbul’s cityscape. But beware of pickpockets in these crowded vehicles especially during rush hour ― an advice from one who lost every possible card and cash on the last day before departure. The only puzzling point was the language barrier. From the airport, which has minimal English directions too within cities, there’s little to no grasp of English. Not even shopkeepers or restaurant/hotel staff who would be dealing with a constant stream of tourists can communicate properly. On the other hand, it should be commended that they are thriving as an international power without the use of the ‘mighty’ English language. A lesson to be learnt by us who make fun of anyone not versed in our once White Masters’ tongue. Turkey is perhaps one of the few places left in this world where being a ‘Pakistani’ still brings out warmth and friendliness from the locals and it’s a great feeling. Though I am told that as popular as it gets with Pakistani tourists ― who do what they do wherever they go ― the love is gradually reducing. We really can’t be trusted with good fortune, can we? Maheen A. Rashdi is a former magazine editor, and columnist covering social and geo-political issues and can be reached at maheenrashdi@gmail.com. All information and facts provided are the sole responsibility of the writer

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WMO seeks ‘more action’ on climate change

From extreme floods like those in Pakistan to heat and drought, weather and climate-related disasters have affected millions and cost billions this year, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), a Geneva-based UN agency, has said, describing the “tell-tale signs and impacts” of intensified climate change. The clear need to do much more to cut greenhouse gas emissions was again underscored throughout events in 2022, said the agency, advocating for strengthened climate change adaptation, including universal access to early warnings. “This year we have faced several dramatic weather disasters which claimed far too many lives and livelihoods and undermined health, food, energy and water security and infrastructure,” WMO chief Petteri Taalas said in a statement. Record-breaking rain in July and August led to extensive flooding in Pakistan, which caused more than 1,700 deaths, displaced 7.9 million and affected 33 million people. “One third of Pakistan was flooded, with major economic losses and human casualties,” Taalas said. While global temperature figures for 2022 will be released in mid-January, the past eight years are on track to be the eight warmest on record, according to WMO.

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Dense fog cripples normal life in Pakistan

Pakistan is in the grip of a severe cold wave as foggy conditions have intensified in many parts of the country. The dense fog engulfing several areas of the country has brought regular activities of life to a halt. According to the Met Office, the weather will remain dry and cold in most parts of the country. It added that the country’s northern areas as well as the upper half of Balochistan would remain affected by severe cold. Dense fog was witnessed in the plains of Punjab. Similar weather conditions are expected in the plains of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and upper parts of Sindh. The temperature was recorded at -14C in Skardu, -10C in Ziarat, -9C in Kalat, -8C in Kalam, -7C in Astore and Gupis, -6C in Quetta and Gilgit, -5C in Hunza, and -4C in Chitral and Dir. The mercury fell to 1C in the federal capital, 6C in Lahore, and 0C in Peshawar. The Met Office has predicted that the weather would remain partially cloudy in Islamabad and there were chances of dense fog in the morning. Read more: Smoggy Lahore and Brain Fog It added that it would remain cold on several districts of K-P, with chances of fog engulfing Peshawar, Rashakai, Mardan, Charsadda, Swabi, Nowshehra and Dera Ismail Khan. In Punjab, fog is expected in Jhelum, Lahore, Gujranwala, Narowal, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sargodha, Toba Tek Singh, Okara, Sahiwal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, and Dera Ghazi Khan. Light rainfall or snowfall is expected in Quetta, Ziarat, Zhob, Chaman, and their surrounding areas in Balochistan. Flight operations continued to remain disrupted as various international airports in the country were engulfed by heavy fog. The administration of the Islamabad International Airport administration has issued a plan for diverted flights. According to airport officials, a total of 33 flights will be operated from Islamabad airport at present. The diverted flights include 16 departure and 17 arrival flights, and these are apart from the scheduled flights. Four departure flights have been operated so far, with 607 passengers and 29 crewmembers on board. Three diverted flights also arrived in the country as 650 passengers and 29 crewmembers reached Islamabad through them. Moreover, 650 passengers coming to Islamabad have left for Lahore by bus. At Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, flights from Baku, Dammam, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul were not allowed to land and diverted to Islamabad. PIA flights departing from Lahore before 12 noon will now depart from Islamabad. Flights to Muscat, Jeddah, Dubai and Riyadh have been shifted to Islamabad as well. Flight PK-759 to Jeddah, PK-203 to Dubai, PK-725 to Riyadh and PK-229 to Muscat will now depart from the federal capital. The visibility at Islamabad airport is 3,200 metres. However, it stands at 800m, 1,000m, and 1,200m at Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad airports, respectively.

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Alvi urges PM, CJP to address Murad Saeed's 'grievances'

In two separate letters addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Justice (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial on Saturday, President Arif Alvi urged them to resolve the issues raised by former federal minister Murad Saeed and address his grievances regarding the Masjid-e-Nabavi incident. The president referred to the serious allegations levelled by the parliamentarian, which included a “fake, bogus, frivolous FIR was registered against him for the incident that occurred at Masjid-e-Nabvi, Madina Sharif, on May 1 2022, despite the fact that he was in Pakistan”. The letter said that multiple FIRs have been registered against the PTI leader on the same charges all over Pakistan, observing that the aforementioned actions were against the fundamental rights enshrined under Articles 9, 13 and 14 of the Constitution. President Alvi was quoted as saying that Murad Saeed raised the issue of the deteriorating law and order situation in Malakand (Swat). "Subsequently, he was threatened with dire consequences and was compelled by the law enforcement agencies to leave Swat, along with his family." The president pointed out that Article 15 of the Constitution provided that “every citizen shall have the right to remain in, and, subject to any reasonable restriction imposed by law in the public interest, enter and move freely throughout Pakistan and to reside and settle in any part thereof”. Read more: Murad Saeed apprises President Alvi of 'life threats' The letter went on to point out that Murad Saeed raised the issue that on August 18 2022, unknown armed persons, violated the privacy of his home, however, despite his repeated requests and the court’s order, FIR has not yet been registered by Islamabad Police. Moreover, unknown persons frequently follow and harass him with serious life threats. “It appears as if the whole state machinery is failing in its duty and performance of functions.” Such alleged acts are in violation of Article 9 of the Constitution and the law, the letter concluded. In April this year, a group of protesters, allegedly belonging to the PTI, violated the sanctity of the Masjid-e-Nabawi after they loudly chanted slogans against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and members of his delegation, as they entered the mosque to pay their respects at the Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH). Upon the arrival of PM Shehbaz and his delegation to the mosque, the protesters started chanting slogans of "chor, chor (thieves)" when they saw the premiere and harassed and raised objectionable slogans against Marriyum Aurangzeb. The protesters also raised slogans against Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and misbehaved with the Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP) chief and federal Minister for Narcotics Control Shahzain Bugti. The protesters filmed the entire episode with their mobile phones. Following the incident, political and religious leaders and people belonging to different sections of the society expressed their outrage at the incident and strictly condemned the chanting of political slogans at Masjid-e-Nabawi (PBUH). Several FIRs were registered against PTI leaders, including the party chief Imran Khan. Subsequently, a court in Madinah sentenced three Pakistanis to eight years in prison. Meanwhile, another three Pakistani citizens were sentenced to six years in jail for creating chaos and violating the sanctity of the holy mosque. In October, the prime minister and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Muhammad bin Salman (MBS) ordered releasing all Pakistani citizens.

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Man accuses cops of kidnapping him

The SHO of Mansoorabad Police Station registered an FIR against a number of policemen on an application filed by Mohammad Irfan, a resident of Muzaffargarh. The complainant alleges in the FIR that he had been kidnapped by “10 police officers” from outside a police station in, what the complainant said, retaliation for a case he had earlier registered against the police. Mohammad Irfan told the police that he worked in a dyeing factory. On his application a case had been registered against the former SHO of Mansoorabad, Shahid Sarwar Alvi. He said he was called to the police station on December 12, 2019 for investigation in the case. Mohammad Irfan told the police that as soon as he came out of the police station, “ASIs Raffaqat Alvi and Rana Nawaz, Constables Imran Bhatta and Talha” and some other people kidnapped him at gunpoint and took him to an unknown location, where ASI Raffaqat Ali tried to pressure him into withdrawing the case registered against SHO Shahid Sarwar Alvi. The complainant alleged that his “kidnappers” took his gold ring, Rs275,600 in cash, a watch, a mobile phone and his original identity card. Mohammad Irfan told the police that the suspects roped his neck and hung him from the ceiling and smacked his legs with sticks. He said that the suspects had also stripped him to humiliate him. Mohammad Irfan further stated that due to severe torture by the accused, one of his right-hand fingers got fractured. Mohammad Irfan alleged that ASI Raffaqat Alvi later contacted his (Irfan’s) brother through his mobile phone and demanded a ransom of Rs1 million for his release. The complainant told the police that ASI Raffaqat Alvi warned his brother that if he didn’t pay the ransom money, they would have Mohammad Irfan killed in a fake encounter. The complainant told the police that his brother accepted the demand for ransom and paid the accused the money they had asked for. Mohammad Irfan told the police that though the suspects’ demand had been met, yet they had him implicated in a false case and produced him in the court of a magistrate. “Seeing my physical condition, the magistrate immediately ordered the police to have my medical done,” said Mohammad Irfan. The complainant said that the Provincial Medical Board confirmed that he had been subjected to torture and that his right-hand finger got fractured. The SHO of Mansoorabad registered a case against the accused on court order. Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2022.

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IGP orders high alert after Islamabad attack

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Aamir Zulfiqar Khan issued orders of putting the security on high alert across Punjab in view of an incident of terrorism in the federal capital on Friday morning. In the orders issued a day after he took charge as the provincial police chief, he directed that the security arrangements of sensitive and public places should be tightened in all districts, including Lahore. The IGP directed the field officers of all districts to pay special attention to the security arrangements. He ordered the regional and district police officers to improve the security arrangements of important installations, places of worship, hospitals and parks in their areas. Amir Zulfiqar Khan said that search, sweep and combing operations should be speeded up in all districts and checking at inter-provincial and inter-district checkpoints should be made more effective. He said the Special Branch and Counter-Terrorism Department should beef up intelligence-based operations and provide all possible support to the district police personnel against criminals. The orders were conveyed to the subordinate officials by the field officers. Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Ghulam Mehmood Dogar also announced tightening of security measures and increased patrolling.   Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2022.

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Assembly dissolution decision ‘is final’

Senior leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the major ally in Punjab, the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), insisted on Friday that the party’s decision of dissolving the provincial assembly was final but added that the Lahore High Court (LHC) had stopped them from dissolving the assembly till January 11. Senior PTI leaders Fawad Chaudhry and Sibtain Khan, the speaker of the Punjab Assembly, and Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi of the PML-Q, said that an affidavit for not dissolving the assembly had been submitted in the LHC because of the opposition’s vote of no-confidence motion. “The decision to dissolve the assemblies is final and Imran Khan’s decision will be fully implemented,” Elahi said after the LHC decision, that reinstated the chief minister after the de-notifying order issued by Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman in the wee hours of Friday. “Today the court stopped a violation of the Constitution. The selected governor of the imported government tried to revive Article 58(2)b but the court prevented the governor from bringing down an elected government in the dark of night,” he added. The chief minister was referring to Gen Zia’s constitutional amendment of the martial law era, which gave the president power to dismiss the government and dissolve parliament under Article 58(2)b. The article was undone through another constitutional amendment. Elahi said that Imran’s decision for dissolving the assemblies was final. “Imran Khan’s decision will be fully implemented. The imported government wants to run away from elections but we will bring the imported government in the people’s court and the final decision will be taken by the people.” Punjab Speaker Sabtain Khan, while speaking to the media persons after the LHC ruling, said that Chaudhry Parvez Elahi was punished for the dispute between him and the governor. He added that the affidavit was submitted in the court because “our real target is something else”. Khan said that the court ruling vindicated his stance for the last three days that the governor acted beyond his powers, when he ordered the chief minister on Monday to seek a vote of confidence from the assembly on Wednesday. Speaking to the media outside the LHC, Fawad Chaudhry said that “our stand is vindicated and the court suspended the governor’s order for de-notifying the chief minister. After the court decision, Chaudhry said, “the governor is guilty of misconduct”. “We gave an affidavit that we will not dissolve the assembly until the next hearing. But the assemblies will be dissolved anyway in a week or two. We were in favour of giving the affidavit, rather it was given on the request of the court,” he added.

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Imran was imposed on nation: Marriyum

Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Friday that in the 2018 elections, Imran Khan was imposed on the nation as prime minister by stealing Nawaz Sharif’s mandate. “Anything that is not yours must be returned to the original owner,” she said in her reaction to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s statement. She said that Imran Khan was fully aware that his government would fall when he lost majority in the National Assembly and his lies, corruption and incompetence were the reasons behind PTI regime’s downfall. “Hundred per cent Pakistanis say that the only solution to the country’s problems is transparent elections, but after the completion of the constitutional term by October 2023,” she maintained. Castigating the PTI chairman, she said Imran Khan took anti-people steps, violated the constitution and played with the country’s interests, especially on Kashmir issue. She reminded Imran Khan that today was December 23, the day he had claimed, “Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies would be dissolved.” She said that people’s war was against those who ran away from accountability after looting the country and Toshakhana. Imran Khan’s loot and plunder destroyed employment opportunities in the country, she remarked. 

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Steps to curb illegal transplantation reviewed

Punjab Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi has said that court cases are being pursued against illegal trade of human organs and legislation is also being tightened against elements involved in the illicit trade in Punjab. He was chairing a meeting to review measures against illegal organ transplantations. The performance of Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority was reviewed in detail, with its Director General Dr Shehzad Anwar delivering a briefing. Dr Ahmed Javed said that medical care and saving lives is ongoing through the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority. Under the Organ Procurement Cell in Punjab, people who donate their organs during their life and after death are registered online. The public were advised to contact the helpline 1109 for guidance, should they be interested in donating. The provincial secretary added that the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority is providing services through its offices in Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad. He directed the authority to take strict legal action against those involved in illegal organ transplantation. Punjab Healthcare Commission CEO Saqib Aziz and other officials also participated in the meeting. Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2022.

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Elahi's political star still shining

Despite political headwinds, Chief Minister Punjab Pervaiz Elahi has so far emerged victorious in the ongoing political crisis in the province as the Lahore High Court's relief leaves at his disposal ample time to pull off the number game for the vote of confidence. On the other hand, the court's order drew mixed reactions from Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) — the biggest opposition party in provincial Assembly — even as its objective to forestall the dissolution of assembly has been achieved as the legislature cannot be scuttled till January 11. However, the prime desire of the PML-N to recapture the Punjab throne may not be fulfilled as the LHC has given a appropriate period to complete the numbers before taking vote of confidence in the assembly. "We were convinced that the LHC would accept CM petition against denotification but we were also sure that Elahi would be bound to take oath of confidence as per governor's earlier order," said a PML-N legal team member. Moreover, it was learnt that the party was holding deliberations on whether the LHC interim order should be challenged in the apex court or not. Read more: LHC restores Elahi as Punjab CM According to one of the legal minds of PML-N, the LHC has given relief to the Elahi without issuing notice to the other side. He believed that luck was also favouring Elahi as the political crisis emerged at the time when superior courts' judges are on winter vacations. Furthermore, two members of the larger bench of the LHC will not be available in next weeks. Likewise, only two-member bench of the apex court is sitting at Islamabad Registry. The federal government sources are claiming that PTI-PMLQ alliance's numbers in the Punjab Assembly fell short of winning the trust vote. They believe that it was not only impossible for CM Elahi to take vote of confidence currently but also in future, if powerful circles do not support him. However, a PTI leader claimed that following the high court's ruling, there ample time to complete the number in Punjab Assembly. He said that a few MPAs who were out of the country will return soon. CM Elahi may take vote of confidence before the next date of hearing, he added. It was also learnt that majority of the PTI MPAs were not interested in dissolution of assembly. However, PTI Chief Imran Khan wants early elections in order to avoid disqualification in Toshakhana case. However, officials in the federal government predict that Islamabad district & session judge would wrap up trial against Imran Khan in Toshakhana case by February 15. A PTI lawyer said that prevailing political situation in Punjab was "a message to Imran Khan that everything was still in the hands of establishment". He also admitted that Chaudharys of Gujarat were asset for the powerful circles and they would be secured at every cost. Political analysts said the PTI had so far failed to maintain a cordial relationship with the powerful circles, who also did not want the dissolution of any assembly -- as revealed by CM Elahi in a recent interview. A PTI leader disclosed that Elahi had suggested that the Imran-led party should not dissolve the assembly immediately and try to resume the cordial ties with the powerful circles like the ones it had before the 2018 general elections. Likewise, PTI MPAs are getting millions of rupees development funds in election year. Therefore they want the continuity of the Punjab government. Since March, there has been instability in Punjab.

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Maulana Fazl cancels India visit amid tensions

Jamiat Ulema-e- Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, a key leader of the coalition government, cancelled a planned trip to India this week after tensions flared following Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s remarks, calling Indian Prime Minister “butcher of Gujarat.” Though there was no official confirmation that the chief of his own faction of the JUI-F and a coalition partner of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, was to travel to India on a four-day visit. Fazl was to attend a religious congregation in Uttar Pradesh, according to reports. However, the visit, was called off following Bilawal’s remarks that not only ignited fresh diplomatic row but also triggered protests in India against the Pakistani foreign minister. The JUI-F chief’s visit would have been the first by a prominent Pakistani politician in over four-years. Last time a caretaker federal minister visited New Delhi in 2018 to offer condolences on behalf of Pakistan on the demise of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Fazl also visited India in the past but his latest trip would have been significant given the state of current relationship between the two neighbours, particularly in the wake of the renewed tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi in recent weeks. Key cabinet ministers in recent days held back-to-back press conferences, accusing the Indian secret agency for sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan. Islamabad also dispatched yet another dossier to the UN Security Council, containing “irrefutable evidence of India’s involvement in terrorism” in Pakistan. Also earlier this week, the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan engaged in a war of words that further deepened tensions. Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, while responding to Pakistan’s dossier, said Pakistan had harboured Osama bin Laden. Reacting to the statement, Foreign Minister Bilawal termed Modi as ‘butcher of Gujarat.’ His remarks led to the members of India’s ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), staging protests outside the Pakistani mission in New Delhi. Some extremist elements in India also offered head money on Bilawal. Against this backdrop, sources said that  the JUI-F chief cancelled his planned visit to India. At a weekly news briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stressed the need for the resolution of all outstanding issues between Pakistan and India through dialogue. “However, in order to pave the way for a meaningful and result-oriented dialogue, India must take steps to create a positive environment in the region,” the spokesperson added. “It should end the systemic violations of human rights that are taking place in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and it must end support to terrorist groups that threaten Pakistan. In this context, you are aware that Pakistan has already shared a dossier and we have called for accountability of perpetrators of Indian-sponsored terrorist attacks on Pakistan,” she maintained.

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Notice issued to ECP on govt’s plea

The Islamabad High Court on Thursday issued a notice to the Election Commission of Pakistan on the government's plea challenging the poll body’s decision to hold local body elections in 101 union councils in the federal capital according to the old election schedule. The court adjourned the hearing till Friday (today) by club together all petitions related to the local body elections including a contempt of court petition filed by the PTI against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamir Farooq took up identical petitions including PTI leader Ali Nawaz Awan's contempt of court petition against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a petition of the representative of the Pakistan Muslim League-N, seeking postponement of the polls in 101 union councils, petitions against the accuracy of the voter’s list before the elections and against the ECP decision to hold the elections in 101 UCs instead of 125 UCs.   Published in The Express Tribune, December 23rd, 2022.

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Govt names Mansoor Awan as new AGP

The government has decided to appoint Mansoor Usman Awan as new Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP), sources revealed to The Express Tribune. It is learnt that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given approval to the name of Awan as new AGP. Read more: Govt still unable to pick new AGP as SC hears high-profile cases Awan is a Lahore-based lawyer. He was the counsel of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) in several matters including implementation of Article 95, presidential reference on interpretation of Article 63(A) of the Constitution. Earlier, incumbent AGP Ashtar Ausaf tendered his resignation because of illness but he was asked to continue the appointment of his successor. Awan has cordial relationship with Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar as well. He will likely to be youngest AGP in recent past.

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CDWP clears seven projects costing Rs115.8b

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) on Thursday cleared seven development projects worth Rs115.80 billion in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal. The projects were related to the Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Housing and Works, Ministry of Planning and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The development schemes included the National Programme Post-Flood Reconstruction: Climate Resilience Enhancement in Balochistan and Other Provinces at a cost of Rs88 billion, Strengthening of Labs in 5 Leading Universities – UET Peshawar, Taxila, Lahore, Khuzdar and NED Karachi – at a cost of Rs6.636 billion and National Sports City at Narowal (Revised Third PC) at a cost of Rs5.760 billion. Other schemes were Yarik-Tank Road, DI Khan Development Package at a cost of Rs4.418 billion, Competitive Grants Programme for Policy-Oriented Research at a cost of Rs1.756 billion, Improvement/ Widening of Spera Ragha Road From Kanozai Cross to Loralai Kila Saifullah Road at a cost of Rs6.136 billion and Innovation Centre and Innovation Park at UET Lahore Sub-campus at a cost of Rs2.966 billion. The planning ministry is the sponsoring agency of the National Programme Post-Flood Reconstruction: Climate Resilience Enhancement in Balochistan and Other Provinces. Read more: CDWP approves projects worth Rs47b for youth The project will consist of four components which include rehabilitation and reconstruction of community infrastructure including irrigation, drainage, flood protection, roads, WASH and other community facilities; reconstruction of damaged housing units; livelihood support, natural resources and watershed management; and institutional strengthening and reform units. “Balochistan has been hit hard by the devastating floods and the provincial government faces financial constraints and can’t finance post-flood recovery and rehabilitation efforts on its own,” said Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, while approving the project. The federal government has decided to obtain a loan from the World Bank and provide Balochistan as grant-in-aid. “We want to assure the people of Balochistan that the federal government stands with them in this time of crisis and is committed to taking all possible steps to address the pressing socio-economic issues,” remarked the minister. CDWP approved the construction of National Sports City at Narowal (revised third PC). The Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination is the sponsoring agency while Pakistan Sports Board will execute the project. Under the project, an international standard sports complex having facilities for all games will be constructed at the third revised cost of Rs5.760 billion. All infrastructure and facilities will be at par with the international standards and capable of holding international, regional and national-level championships and sports events for almost all indoor and outdoor games. The revised project consists of construction of a cricket stadium with pavilion and seating area, football ground with athletic track, pavilion and seating arrangement, hockey ground with synthetic turf and seating capacity, squash courts with seating steps, two tennis courts, one volleyball court, gymnasium, one basketball court, Kabbadi court and covered swimming pool with allied facilities, mosque and others. The project was close to completion in 2017 but the previous government stopped it and as a result its cost increased from Rs2.994 billion to Rs5.760 billion. The minister stressed that responsibility should be fixed against those who deliberately delayed the project, which caused a huge loss to the national exchequer. He asked the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination to complete remaining work on the project so that inauguration could be made possible in March 2023. Under the project titled Strengthening of Labs in 5 Leading Universities – UET Peshawar, Taxila, Lahore, Khuzdar and NED Karachi, the key objective is to upgrade the lab equipment for the students of engineering universities by providing modern and updated equipment, which will lead to improvement in research and development work. The planning minister directed the HEC to engage a procurement consultant for the equipment to be used in labs and said every university must ensure proper maintenance of the equipment. He was of the view that every engineering university should make a five-year roadmap in line with global practices.

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Punjab Assembly cannot be dissolved on Friday: Speaker Sibtain

Speaker Punjab Assembly Sibtain Khan on Thursday said that the Punjab Assembly cannot be dissolved on Friday, suggesting it may happen in January. Speaking to the media, Sibtain said that the Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman had asked Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi to take a vote of confidence. However, he responded by saying that a governor can only summon a session but cannot denotify a chief minister. "According to Article 130 (7) a governor has to convene a new session and since a session is ongoing, a new session cannot be called," he added. Sibtain urged the governor not to issue "unconstitutional" orders as he would not allow them to be implemented. "I have all the rights under Article 209-A and 235." Read more: Elahi no longer CM Punjab as he skipped vote of confidence, says Sanaullah In response to a question regarding the dissolution of the assemblies, the speaker said that the no-confidence motion has just been tabled which would take time to process, therefore, the assembly cannot be dissolved on Friday. "At best, the voting process would conclude by the end of first week of January." Sibtain said that whether a session is ongoing or not, a governor cannot denotify a chief minister. "If they do denotify [the chief minister] then we will send a letter to the president," he added. Sibtain said that they wanted to dissolve the assembly as soon as possible but it was getting delayed after the tabling of the no-confidence motion. On December 19, Governor Balighur Rehman directed Chief Minister Elahi to seek a vote of confidence on December 21. However, Speaker Sibtain Khan said that the governor’s letter, asking the chief minister to seek a vote of confidence was against the assembly rules, as well as the Constitution. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah, earlier in the day, said that Elahi is “no more chief minister of Punjab constitutionally” as he “failed” to secure a vote of confidence. “Since he was not able to get a vote of confidence, he is no more the chief minister of Punjab,” the interior minister said while talking to the media.

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PTI to knock at SC’s doors again for resignations

The PTI has decided to approach the Supreme Court again for the verification of its MNAs' resignations after National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf allegedly delayed the matter on purpose. The party’s legal team has started preparing for the case as it believes that the speaker was deliberately dragging his feet on the issue. When the PTI announced that its MNAs would reach the assembly to tender their resignations again, the speaker had adjourned its session indefinitely. PTI sources said when the party’s MNAs announced that they would appear before the speaker to have their resignations verified, Ashraf left on a leave. The “delay tactics” being employed by the NA speaker have compelled the PTI to move the top court once more. In a related development, President Dr Arif Alvi has convened a session of the National Assembly on Thursday (today) under Article 54 (1) of the Constitution. The PTI MNAs had decided to appear before the NA speaker in person on Thursday to verify their resignations, which have been lying pending with him despite the lapse of several months and repeated requests from the party leadership to accept them. On April 3, then NA deputy speaker Qasim Suri had rejected a no-confidence motion against then premier Imran Khan, saying that it was backed by a foreign state therefore, it was “unconstitutional” under Article 5 of the Constitution. He then prorogued the session without the vote on the motion. However, his ruling was struck down by the Supreme Court on April 7. On April 13, Suri had accepted the resignations of 123 PTI MNAs before stepping down from his post. Ashraf, after taking oath of his office later in the same month, had directed the assembly secretariat to deal with the resignations of lawmakers of the PTI afresh and present them before him so that they could be treated as per law. The ruling of the 22nd speaker of the assembly came amid claims and speculations that some of the PTI lawmakers were now willing to retract and have been conveying messages that their resignations should not be accepted. He later accepted the resignations of only 11 PTI lawmakers on July 27. The PTI challenged the move in the Islamabad High Court on August 1. However, the court dismissed the petition and declared that the acceptance of PTI lawmakers’ resignations by the then-deputy speaker was unconstitutional. Subsequently, the party moved the apex court, requesting it to set aside the IHC order, terming it “vague, cursory, and against the law”.

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Shehbaz for draining Sindh’s flooded areas

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif drew attention of the local authorities in Sindh towards the stagnant floodwater, particularly in the most-affected Dadu district, stressing the need for de-watering, as he assured the flood victims on Wednesday of the federal government’s full support for their rehabilitation. The prime minister visited Kot Diji and other flood-affected areas of the Khairpur district and inspected the post-flood rehabilitation work. Speaking on the occasion, he stressed that the de-watering of the inundated areas of Dadu required immediate attention. Addressing the flood victims, Shehbaz assured them that the government would construct houses for their proper accommodation. He added that the rehabilitation and reconstruction work in the affected areas had been completed to a large extent. “The federal government will not leave the flood-affected people of Sindh in distress. It will continue to take measures to mitigate their sufferings,” the prime minister said. “Serving the masses and their welfare is the priority of the government,” he added. Shehbaz said that the people of Sindh suffered death and destruction as the floods wreaked havoc in the province. The prime minister mentioned that Pakistan had borne the brunt of climate change despite its minimal contribution to the global carbon emissions. To mitigate the sufferings of the people, he continued, the federal government provided the utmost resources to the provincial government to overcome the massive problem. Under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), the federal government disbursed Rs70 billion among the flood victims, he said. During the visit, Shehbaz also announced the establishment of a campus of COMSATS University in Khairpur. The prime minister also met the flood-affected people at makeshift camps and enquired about the availability of facilities being provided to them by the government. On the occasion, Sindh Governor Kamran Tissori said that the coordination between federal and provincial governments was important in providing facilities to the flood-affected people who were facing the challenges of food security and accommodation. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah stressed the need for the availability of funds for redefining and clearing the natural watercourses so as to minimise the chances of floods. He also sought the federal government’s assistance to help the province rectify its drainage system. Prime Minister Shehbaz was given a briefing on the ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction projects being carried out in the flood-affected areas. It was highlighted that the areas be restored in line with the feasibility study following a rainfall of 2011-12 that outlined the natural watercourses.

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FCCI wants underutilised funds diverted to NGOs

Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) President Dr. Khurram Tariq said on Wednesday that underutilized or “ignored” government resources reserved for the betterment of the differently-abled persons might be diverted to those non-governmental organisations (NGOs) which had been working for the welfare of physically challenged students. He expressed these views during a visit to the main campus of the Tanzeem-al-Lissan, which is working exclusively for the education of deaf and dumb children. Citing from the statistics, he said that about 10 percent of the country’s population suffered from different types of disabilities. He said the government institutions were working for the education of differently-abled persons, but the private sector was also sharing their load by establishing institutions for the children with different predicaments. Published in The Express Tribune, December 22nd, 2022.

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Confidence vote: Punjab governor declares speaker's ruling ‘illegal, unconstitutional’

Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman on Wednesday declared provincial assembly Speaker Sibtain Khan's ruling on the chief minister’s confidence vote as “illegal and unconstitutional”. Governor Rehman had directed Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi to seek a vote of confidence on December 21 (today) after the opposition parties — PPP and the PML-N — filed a no-confidence motion against Elahi in a bid to forestall the dissolution of the provincial assembly. On Tuesday, Speaker Sibtain Khan, who was chairing the Punjab Assembly session, adjourned the sitting until Friday, instead of Wednesday (today) as directed by the governor. The speaker said that the governor’s letter asking the chief minister to seek a vote of confidence was against the assembly rules as well as the Constitution. The speaker ruled that the governor’s order to the chief minister was “unconstitutional because the assembly was already in session and unless the current session was prorogued, the governor could not summon a fresh session”. “The provincial assembly of the Punjab is already in the session having been summoned by the speaker on a requisition by the members of the assembly on 23rd October …” the ruling said. “Until and unless the current session is prorogued the governor cannot summon any fresh session,” it added. “Regards the Assembly being in session, having been summoned by your goodself. under clause (3) of Article 54 read with Article 127, please note that the current session of the Punjab Assembly can only be prorogued by you,” the governor said in a reply. Reply to the Speaker’s ruling of yesterday, which was illegal and unconstitutional. pic.twitter.com/Akoen3s84Q — M Baligh Ur Rehman (@MBalighurRehman) December 21, 2022 Referring to his earlier order on the confidence vote, the governor said it was implied in the communiqué that “if the ongoing session was prorogued by your goodself at any time before 1600hrs [4pm] today, a new session was required to be summoned at 1600hrs on 21st December, 2022 for a vote under Article 130(7)”. Also read: Another showdown looms in Punjab “In the alternate, a sitting of the Assembly at the noted time and date could have been summoned in the 41st Session of the Assembly, which your goodself has also noted that it was summoned by me and was never prorogued: or a fresh session specifically summoned for the purposes of requiring the Chief Minister to obtain the vote of confidence,” he added. The governor said the speaker’s ruling is in violation of Rule 209 of the Rules of Procedure of the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab, 1997. “Under sub-rule (1), a ruling on interpretation and enforcement of the relevant Articles of the Constitution as regulate the business of the Assembly can only be given on a 'point of Order'. It is evident that no point of Order was raised on the floor of the house on 20th December 2022, and as it seems, your goodself has given the Ruling in your office, which is in violation of Rule 209(1).” The govenor further added that: “As the custodian of the House and holder of an esteemed constitutional office, it was imperative for your goodself not to act in a partisan manner; or for that matter, in any other way that violates your oath.” The governor said that, as per the Constitution, whether the assembly is “in session or otherwise does not have any effect whatsoever on the operation of Article 130(7)”.

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Aamir Zulfiqar appointed Punjab Inspector General

Amid political turmoil in Punjab, the federal government on Wednesday appointed Mohammad Aamir Zulfiqar Khan as the Punjab Inspector General (IG) after Faisal Shahkar relinquished charge of the post. The Establishment Division has also issued a formal notification in this regard which stated that Zulfiqar is presently serving as Deputy Director General Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF).  Zulfiqar has also served as IG National Highways and Motorway Police and IG Islamabad Police. He has also been posted as Punjab Additional IG Operations. He also served as DIG Operations Lahore, RPO Multan, DIG CTD Punjab, DIG Operations and CPO Punjab. Read: PML-N, PTI ready for electoral showdown Zulfiqar has served in Sindh, Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provinces as well as the Centre. The new IG belongs to the 19th Common of Pakistan Administrative Service. He is regarded as one of the most professional, honest and experienced officers of the Punjab Police. Earlier in the, the government replaced Chief Secretary Punjab Kamran Ali Afzal, while IG Police Faisal Shahkar relinquished charge of his post. The new chief secretary belongs to the 23rd Common of Pakistan Administrative Service and has extensive experience in the fields of finance and administration. He has also served as additional chief secretary, secretary finance, and commissioner Lahore in addition to serving in important positions in various other departments.

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Rangers called in to protect Governor House ahead of PTI’s protest

The federal government is beefing up security at the Punjab Governor House, asking for the deployment of Pakistan Rangers ahead of the PTI's call for a protest demonstration as the political crisis intensified in the provincial capital on Wednesday. The development comes after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced to stage a power show outside the Punjab Governor House on Thursday (tomorrow) amid the opposition’s attempts to oust Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi. “[PTI] chairman Imran Khan has decided that the party will hold gathering outside Governor House at 5pm tomorrow. We will not let anyone to take unconstitutional steps,” said PTI leader Hammad Azhar while addressing the media in Lahore. He was referring to the PML-N’s announcement that Punjab governor will denotify CM Elahi over his failure to obtain vote of confidence from the House by 4pm today. In a notification issued late Tuesday, the Ministry of Interior said, “.[…]Pakistan Rangers (Punjab) is requested to immediate necessary action with regard to beefing up the security at the Governor's House”. Also read: Another showdown looms in Punjab Meanwhile, the federal government has also decided to deploy Rangers and Frontier Constabulary to maintain law and order in the province amid brewing political crisis, Express News cited sources as saying. They added that Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has instructed Punjab chief secretary and police chief to protect people's lives and property and perform their duties according to the Constitution and law. Sanaulllah, according to sources, also warned the government officials serving in Punjab against following any illegal orders. Another political showdown is looming in Punjab as the federal government insisted that Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi would “cease to hold” office after he failed to get a vote of confidence from the provincial assembly by 4pm today, while Governor Balighur Rehman declared Speaker Sibtain Khan's ruling on the confidence vote as “illegal and unconstitutional”. Governor Rehman had directed Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi to seek a vote of confidence on December 21 (today) after the opposition parties — PPP and the PML-N — filed a no-confidence motion against Elahi in a bid to forestall the dissolution of the provincial assembly. On Tuesday, Speaker Sibtain Khan, who was chairing the Punjab Assembly session, adjourned the sitting until Friday, instead of Wednesday (today) as directed by the governor. The speaker said that the governor’s letter asking the chief minister to seek a vote of confidence was against the assembly rules as well as the Constitution.  

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