LHC declines immediate suspension

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has turned down a request to immediately suspend certain sections of the PECA Amendment Bill 2025, seeking replies from the relevant authorities on a petition challenging the Act's constitutionality. Justice Farooq Haider, while presiding over the case, remarked that a decision would be made only after hearing all concerned parties. The judge subsequently issued notices to the respondents, directing them to submit their responses within three weeks. The petition was filed by Jaffar Bin Yar through his counsel Advocate Nadeem Sarwar, with respondents including the Federation of Pakistan through the Ministry of Law and Cabinet Division, the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication, and the PTA through its chairman.

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Sharjeel Memon disputes Maryam Nawaz’s electric bus claim, sets record straight

Sharjeel Memon, Senior Minister for Information and Transport in Sindh, has corrected a claim made by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz regarding the introduction of electric buses in Pakistan. Maryam had tweeted earlier on Friday that Punjab would be the first province in the country to transform its mass transit system with electric vehicles, announcing the arrival of the first fleet of 27 e-buses. These buses, she highlighted, are equipped with Wi-Fi, a female section, wheelchair ramps, CCTV, and seating for special persons, while bus stops will feature water coolers and mist fans. Responding to this tweet, Memon took to social media to clarify the record as he pointed out that while Punjab is now introducing electric buses, Sindh had already taken the lead. “It’s good to know that after Sindh, Punjab is the second province to start EV buses. The PPP-led Sindh government launched electric buses in January 2023,” Memon wrote, adding that Punjab had started its initiative after Sindh. In response, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari swiftly came to respond to her counterpart. She took a sarcastic tone, referencing previous criticism of the Sindh government’s handling of public transport. "First, business owners were summoned and reprimanded over a light-hearted comment, and now this?" she remarked. "After the introduction of the Orange Line, three metro lines, Speedo buses, and electric bikes, this is the next logical step." Bukhari also emphasised that the true state of public transport in Sindh is far more complicated, urging a deeper understanding of the issue.

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PTI shifts to agitation mode, plans protests after failed talks with govt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja announced on Friday that the “system” would soon realise it cannot move forward without the party founded by Imran Khan. His comments came a day after PTI rejected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's offer to resume stalled talks, leading to speculation about political instability in the coming days. PTI, which is now seemingly shifting to "agitation mode," has signalled plans to stage protests at the district level over alleged rigging in last year's general elections. PTI's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar also mentioned a potential demonstration at Islamabad’s D-Chowk. He previously stated that PTI's desire for dialogue was misinterpreted as weakness and revealed that the party was planning to reorganize its leadership by sidelining moderate figures in favor of hardliners. Speaking to a local TV news channel, Raja reaffirmed PTI’s position, saying the party was ready to operate within the framework of the Constitution and law. He stressed that PTI remains the largest political force in Pakistan, contributing to national stability. He warned that diminishing PTI’s influence could strengthen extremist elements, a situation the country could not afford. He further clarified that PTI was not engaging in backdoor talks and did not consider such communications necessary for their future strategy.

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LHCBA moves court against JC meeting

The LHCBA filed a miscellaneous petition in the Supreme Court on Thursday, requesting for the postponement a meeting of the Judicial Commission, scheduled to take place on February 11. In its petition the LHCBA said that the court had issued notices in the 26th Constitutional Amendment case, while a Judicial Commission meeting was called for the appointment of judges in the Supreme Court. It added that a general impression was that the meeting had been called for "court packing". The appointment of eight Supreme Court judges will be considered in the Judicial Commission meeting on February 11.

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PFUJ declares 'Black Day' to protest PECA amendments on Friday

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has announced a nationwide “Black Day” on Friday in protest against amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari stated that journalists across the country would hoist black flags at press clubs and union offices, alongside holding protest rallies against the controversial amendments. The leaders criticised the government for restricting press freedom, highlighting that while in opposition, the ruling party had strongly advocated for journalists’ rights—an approach echoed by previous administrations. PFUJ leaders condemned the amended PECA legislation, arguing that it enables detention and penalties without fair trial procedures. They announced the launch of a “Press Freedom Movement,” vowing that their opposition would extend beyond protests into a sustained campaign. Butt stated that the movement had already begun, with plans to stage a sit-in outside Parliament House until the amendments are repealed. Additionally, the PFUJ is exploring legal avenues to challenge the law, with legal professionals currently analyzing its provisions. While acknowledging that immediate enforcement remains unlikely due to pending procedural formalities, Butt expressed concerns that the government’s swift approval of the law could indicate plans for expedited enforcement. He stated that the coming days would clarify the implementation timeline and reaffirmed PFUJ’s commitment to supporting journalists affected by the law—both legally and humanitarianly.

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Sabahat proposed for law commission secretary

CJP Justice Yahya Afridi has recommended Syeda Tanzeela Sabahat for appointment as Secretary Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan on deputation for one year. The recommendation was finalized after a rigorous selection process conducted by a committee tasked with reviewing nominees provided by the chief secretaries of the provinces. The committee, chaired by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, included Justice Ayesha Malik, Justice Shahid Waheed, and other Supreme Court judges. Sabahat is currently serving as Secretary for Science, Technology, and Information Technology in the K-P government.

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New Toshakhana records name Qazi Faez Isa, Nawaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto among recipients

The cabinet division has released the Toshakhana records from March, 2023, to December 31, 2024, revealing a list of prominent figures who received gifts during this period, local media reported on Wednesday. Among the individuals listed are Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, former president Arif Alvi, former CJP Qazi Faez Isa, and several other key political and government personalities. According to the notification issued, numerous officials, including former interim prime minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Miftah Ismail, Rana Sanaullah, Aftab Tarar, Shazin Bugti, and Jam Kamal also received gifts. Other individuals listed in the notification include PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, his sister Asifa Bhutto, Senator Talha Mahmood, seasoned diplomat Tariq Fatemi, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, and FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial, among others. Additionally, military and security personnel such as Vice Admiral Abdul Samad, President Zardari’s Military Secretary Brigadier Shahryar Munir Hafeez, PM’s Military Secretary Major General Tajdid Mumtaz, PM’s Chief Security Officer Mohammad Imran, and former foreign secretary Amina Baloch were also among those receiving gifts. The notification also included names of former interim ministers like Shamshad Akhtar (Finance), Jalil Abbas Jilani (Foreign Affairs), Dr Umar Saif (IT), Tajat Gohar Ejaz (Trade), and Muhammad Ali (Energy) who were gifted various items during their tenure. The gifts presented included books, decorative pieces, souvenirs, watches, teapots, carpets, shawls, daggers, prayer mats, pens, cups, perfumes, and handkerchiefs, among others. In the past one and a half years, most recipients have deposited their gifts in the Toshakhana, and the Cabinet Division is currently in the process of estimating the value of the various gifts received. It is important to note that in March 2023, the Shehbaz government introduced a new system for managing gifts. Under the new rules, recipients are allowed to keep gifts worth up to $300, while any gift exceeding this value will become the property of the Toshakhana.

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12 SHC judges to take oath today

Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, the chief justice of the provincial High Court of Sindh (SHC), is going to administer the oath of office to the twelve new additional judges today. A ceremony in this regard will be held at the SHC building at 10:30 am. The new judges scheduled to take oath of office are Justice Miran Muhammad Shah, Justice Tasneem Sultana, Justice Riazat Ali Sahar, Justice Muhammad Hassan Akbar, Justice Khalid Hussain Shahani, Justice Abdul Hamid Bhurgri, Syed Faizul Hassan Shah, Justice Jan Ali Junejo, Justice Nisar Ahmed Bhanbhro, Justice Ali Haider Ada, Muhammad Osman Ali Hadi, and Justice Muhammad Jaffer Raza.

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Rana Sanaullah denies backdoor talks between PTI, establishment

Prime Minister's aide on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has dismissed speculation regarding "ongoing backdoor talks" involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the establishment. He affirmed that no dialogue would take place with the former ruling party through unofficial channels. Earlier in the day, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan maintained that PTI was not engaged in dialogue with any other entities. Speaking to a local TV news channel on Tuesday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader criticised PTI for skipping the fourth round of formal talks. "Political issues can only be resolved through the official dialogue table, which they [PTI] abandoned today," Sanaullah stated. PTI boycotted the fourth session scheduled for Tuesday, citing the government's failure to establish judicial commissions to investigate the May 9, 2023, riots and the November 26, 2024, Islamabad protest crackdown. The PML-N leader criticised PTI’s political approach over the past decade, accusing the party of damaging the country's political landscape. He further stated that PTI missed the chance to receive the government's response by skipping the negotiations. Referring to PTI's demands for a judicial commission, he remarked, "No judge would want to join such a commission given the current circumstances." Responding to PTI’s warnings of street protests, Sanaullah stressed that any demonstrations would be met with legal action. "In a democratic system, issues are resolved at the negotiating table, not on the streets," he said.

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PTI warns of nationwide campaign over stalled talks with govt

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) chapter President Junaid Akbar has warned of a nationwide campaign against the ruling coalition, citing the government’s lack of commitment to resolving political tensions through dialogue. Speaking to a local TV news channel, Akbar said the opposition’s willingness to negotiate was wrongly interpreted as a sign of weakness. His remarks came after PTI skipped the fourth round of talks with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led coalition government earlier on Tuesday, effectively stalling the negotiation process. PTI and the ruling alliance initiated talks in December last year to lower the political temperature in the country. However, the dialogue process derailed as PTI accused the government of failing to form judicial commissions to investigate the May 9, 2023, protests and the crackdown on PTI demonstrators in Islamabad on November 26, 2024. Akbar, who was recently elected Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chairman unopposed, admitted that while PTI aimed to make negotiations work, the current trajectory suggested a deadlock. He confirmed PTI’s intention to abandon negotiations in favor of street protests. “Yes, definitely,” he said when asked if the party would now seek solutions on the streets. He announced a series of protest plans, including district-level demonstrations on February 8 against alleged election rigging and a large-scale protest at Islamabad’s D-Chowk. The PTI leader stressed that this time, the party would not engage in negotiations during its street protests. Hinting at significant changes within PTI, he revealed that the party’s “homoeopathic leadership” would be replaced by hardliners after a reorganization scheduled for May. He also announced plans to revamp the provincial cabinet, with two new members expected to join Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s team. Akbar accused the federal government of attempting to create divisions within PTI and coercing party members to switch loyalties. “We know who is in contact with whom,” he said, adding that efforts to destabilize the party had failed. The PTI leader also claimed that those who left the party had originally joined under external directives. Akbar expressed optimism about the release of PTI founder Imran Khan this year.

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University campus to be inaugurated in Chiniot

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has announced the upcoming inauguration of a new campus of GC University Chiniot, a project worth Rs2 billion, which aims to provide higher education opportunities to local students. He was addressing an open court in Chiniot to address public issues, where citizens raised concerns regarding cleanliness, health, electricity, gas, and other basic facilities. The minister issued directives to the concerned departments to resolve these issues promptly and assured the public that all complaints would be addressed on a priority basis. He said he would bear the educational expenses of deserving students.

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Court issues death sentences to four in online blasphemy case

A court in Rawalpindi has sentenced four men to death for posting blasphemous content online, a lawyer from the Legal Commission on Blasphemy Pakistan (LCBP) confirmed on Monday. “They were sentenced to death... on Friday for spreading blasphemous content online,” said Rao Abdur Raheem, a lawyer with the LCBP. He added that forensic evidence from the devices used in the alleged offences supported the prosecution's case. Despite convictions in several cases, Pakistan has never carried out an execution for blasphemy. Appeals often lead to sentences being commuted to life imprisonment. A member of a support group for the convicted men, speaking anonymously due to security concerns, said the families would challenge the verdict. “We urge the government to investigate the growing number of online blasphemy cases before more young individuals spend the best years of their lives behind bars,” the member said. Rights groups have raised concerns over the increasing number of online blasphemy prosecutions. A report by the National Commission for Human Rights in October revealed that 767 individuals, mostly young men, are currently in jail awaiting trial for blasphemy. “In these cases, due process was notably disregarded, with significant procedural violations observed at multiple stages,” the report stated. It added that private individuals, rather than law enforcement, often carry out arrests in such cases. The LCBP, a prominent group of private lawyers and volunteers, has been at the forefront of prosecuting online blasphemy cases. Sheraz Ahmad Farooqi, one of its leaders, described the group’s efforts as a “noble cause” in an earlier interview. A special court was established last September to expedite dozens of pending blasphemy cases, some of which have dragged on for years.

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PAF among top 10 most powerful air forces globally

A recent report published on a globalfirepower.com website has ranked the world’s most powerful air forces based on their aircraft inventory, including fighter jets, helicopters, and support aircraft. The United States was identified as the strongest air force globally, followed by Russia and China in second and third places, respectively. India ranked fourth, South Korea fifth, and Japan sixth, with Pakistan securing the seventh spot. The report noted that the US Air Force is unrivalled, with a fleet that exceeds the combined air capabilities of Russia, China, India, South Korea, and Japan. It operates 5,737 helicopters, 1,854 fighter jets, and 3,722 support aircraft, with an annual budget of $800 billion, accounting for nearly 40% of global military spending. Russia, with one-third of US air power, operates 1,554 helicopters, 809 fighter jets, and 610 support aircraft. However, it has suffered losses, with 220 aircraft destroyed since the onset of the Ukraine war in 2022. China, ranked third, has been investing heavily in modernising its air force and recently added its sixth-generation fighter jet to its fleet. The country is also working on supersonic aircraft. India, South Korea, and Japan follow with 2,296, 1,576, and 1,459 aircraft, respectively. Pakistan, ranked seventh, operates 1,434 fighter jets, helicopters, and support aircraft. Egypt, Turkey, and France round out the top ten, with respective inventories of 1,080, 1,069, and 972 aircraft. The report highlights the evolving landscape of air power, with countries like China rapidly advancing their technological capabilities, while others, such as Russia, face challenges in maintaining their fleets due to ongoing conflicts.

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Poliovirus found in sewage of three districts

The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health has confirmed the presence of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in environmental samples collected from three districts. Sewage samples taken from Thatta, Umerkot and Naushahro Feroze on December 23 and 24, 2024, tested positive for WPV1, sparking renewed concerns about the spread of the paralysing disease. Polio, an incurable disease that causes paralysis, remains a persistent threat. Experts stress the critical importance of administering multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and completing routine vaccination schedules for children under the age of five to ensure high immunity against the virus. The Pakistan Polio Programme conducts multiple mass vaccination drives each year, delivering the vaccine directly to children at their doorsteps. Meanwhile, the Expanded Programme on Immunisation offers free vaccinations against 12 childhood diseases at health facilities nationwide. The year's first polio vaccination campaign is scheduled to run from February 3 to February 9 across the country. Parents are urged to ensure that all their children under the age of five are vaccinated during this crucial campaign to keep them protected against this debilitating disease.

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Two injured in attack on AJK Speaker Latif Akbar’s convoy

The convoy of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Latif Akbar was attacked near Muzaffarabad, leaving two people injured. However, the speaker remained unharmed. According to Express News, he was on his way to a political meeting in the outskirts of Muzaffarabad, near Khawara, when the shooting occurred. He confirmed the attack in a phone call, stating that his convoy was fired upon while he was en route to a political gathering. Akbar informed Express News that just three days prior to the attack, his opponents had issued threats on social media, which he had reported to the administration and police. However, no preventive action was taken. The two injured individuals were taken to the hospital. Following the incident, tensions escalated, leading to exchanges of gunfire between police and members of the Muslim Conference party as they attempted to control the situation. Assistant Commissioner Rural Hamad Bashir stated that the administration is taking measures to control the situation, and that a few individuals had attacked the speaker’s convoy with gunfire and stones. According to AC Rural, a Pakistan People's Party worker was injured by both a bullet and a stone. Authorities are actively working to apprehend those responsible for the shooting, and the attackers later began firing at the police, though no casualties were reported. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack on the speaker’s convoy, calling it a cowardly act. The PM directed the relevant authorities to ensure the swift capture of the attackers and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

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Govt outlines renewable energy goals on International Clean Energy Day

The government reaffirmed its commitment to addressing climate change and advancing clean energy solutions during the observance of the International Day of Clean Energy on Sunday. Energy Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari highlighted the nation’s ambitious goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2030. In his remarks, Leghari emphasised the pivotal role that clean energy plays in meeting this target. “Pakistan is fully committed to promoting renewable energy, and the Power Division is carefully formulating policies to provide affordable and sustainable electricity to consumers,” said the minister. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the shift to cleaner energy sources and called for technical and financial support from nations with advanced clean energy technologies. Leghari outlined one of the government’s key energy transition goals: converting 30 per cent of fossil fuel vehicles into electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030. This conversion is essential to meeting Pakistan’s clean energy objectives. The government has already made moves to support the EV sector, including a recent 44 per cent reduction in electricity tariffs for EV charging stations aimed at attracting investments and promoting EV adoption.

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22 Morocco boat survivors to be repatriated: FO

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating the repatriation of 22 Pakistani survivors of the recent maritime incident near the Dakhla port in Morocco. Following thorough investigations and careful coordination with the Moroccan authorities, these individuals will be returned to Pakistan in batches, the Foreign Office spokesperson said on Saturday. The Pakistan embassy in Rabat has been working closely with the Moroccan authorities to oversee the relief efforts and finalise the complex repatriation procedure. The embassy's consular team in Dakhla has been instrumental in planning the return of the survivors. The Foreign Ministry's Crisis Management Unit (CMU) has been actively engaged in monitoring the situation, providing necessary support to the affected individuals, and maintaining active communication with their families. He said national identity verification remained a critical component of this process which was completed expeditiously in coordination with the Interior Ministry and the relevant departments. Separately, the Foreign Ministry is also facilitating the return of 11 Pakistani nationals from Mauritania. These individuals have voluntarily chosen to return home and will be part of a separate repatriation process. Meanwhile, an anti-human smuggling Karachi circle has arrested three human smugglers from a restaurant.

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Bangladesh high commissioner announces direct flights with Pakistan

Bangladesh's High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohammad Iqbal Hussain, has announced plans to begin direct air services between Bangladesh and Pakistan, further strengthening bilateral ties. Speaking at a press conference in Peshawar on Saturday, Hussain emphasized the deep and historic relationship between the two countries and expressed the intention to initiate direct flights to facilitate travel and connectivity. He noted that such a move would enhance cooperation in various sectors, including tourism, education, and trade. The High Commissioner also highlighted the growing trade and diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan, stating that these ties would continue to grow stronger. He underscored Bangladesh's commitment to freedom of expression, noting how social media has empowered the younger generation to voice their rights, contributing to a robust culture of free speech in the country. Additionally, Hussain pointed out the vast investment opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the healthcare and industrial sectors, encouraging businesses to explore these avenues. He also mentioned the demand for Bangladeshi products in Pakistan, with trade ongoing between the two nations via shipping routes linking Chittagong and Karachi, although the volume remains modest. The High Commissioner also touched on the upcoming elections in Bangladesh and reiterated his country’s focus on economic development as a key priority. He concluded by commending Pakistan’s Air Force for its exceptional capabilities in the defense sector.

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Bilawal warns against overturning 26th Amendment outside Parliament

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari asserted that only Parliament has the authority to reverse the 26th Constitutional Amendment, stating that no other institution would be recognized if it attempts to undo the amendment. Addressing the media in Parliament house, he also clarified that PPP is not part of the federal cabinet, Express News reported on Friday. "I am neither a minister, nor am I holding any governmental position, so I do not have an official agenda during my upcoming visit to the United States," he stated. In response to a journalist’s question about the possibility of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif completing his five-year term, Bilawal replied, "Insha Allah," but reiterated that PPP would not be part of the federal cabinet. On the subject of foreign policy, Bilawal acknowledged the complex geopolitics of the region, highlighting the relationship between the US and China. "The PPP will never compromise on our nuclear assets or program," he affirmed. He reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy remains steady, with a particular focus on the country's nuclear assets and missile technology, which he credited as the legacy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. On the issue of the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), Bilawal suggested that consulting with media representatives and digital media experts before passing such legislation would have been a better approach. He advised the government to build consensus before making any decisions to ensure smoother implementation. https://ift.tt/wLjq2N5 Bilawal also addressed matters concerning the judiciary, stressing that when a new judge is appointed to the Supreme Court, other judges should ease their transition instead of creating difficulties. "Whether it’s a bench of the Supreme Court or a constitutional bench, all must respect the Constitution and the law," he added. Bilawal's remarks come amid growing discussion around the 26th Constitutional Amendment, particularly its rollback. He made it clear that any rollback of the amendment should only be done by Parliament, warning that neither the PPP nor anyone else would accept any attempt by another institution to undo the changes. The 26th Amendment has sparked significant debate, with a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court scheduled to hear petitions against it on January 27. The amendment, passed in October of 2024, introduced key changes to the judicial appointment process, specifically in Article 175-A. These changes were significant, especially as the amendment altered the procedure for selecting the Chief Justice of Pakistan. On January 16, a bench hearing cases related to the amendment and the powers of the regular bench fractured, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding the issue. The 26th Amendment had previously led to the establishment of a parliamentary committee to select the Chief Justice, a break from Pakistan’s longstanding tradition of selecting the senior-most judge for the role. Bilawal also reflected on the recent history of judicial appointments, including the controversial selection of Justice Yahya Afridi as the next Chief Justice in October 2024, which led to the modification of judicial procedures through the amendment.

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Sher Afzal Marwat dismisses reports of Imran Khan's refusal to meet him

Sher Afzal Marwat, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has rejected media reports suggesting that the party's founder refused to meet him, calling the claims false and misleading. Speaking to the media outside Parliament House on Friday, Marwat clarified that recent news stating that the PTI founder had blocked his meeting request was entirely untrue. He also expressed his solidarity with the media on the issue of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and criticised the false narrative being spread. He said that some individuals on social media claim to be associated with PTI, but in reality, they are following the agenda of Adil Raja. These people do an injustice to both PTI and Imran Khan by spreading false information, he alleged. PTI leader made it clear that if Imran Khan ever tells him that his support is no longer needed, he would not even cast a shadow over him. He also requested the media to verify statements with him before broadcasting them, as such misinformation hurts his supporters, voters, and his community. https://ift.tt/nlhs7u8 Marwat emphasised that such baseless rumours only create unnecessary resentment among his supporters towards Khan and PTI while stressing that his sense of self-respect was far more valuable to him than engaging in such misleading discussions. Regarding the ongoing negotiations, he said, "I believe the process is far from over as Imran Khan said, if the government agrees to form a commission, we are ready to return to the negotiation table". In a strong statement, Marwat asserted that he would now distance himself from the media for a while, citing the harmful impact of fake news on his reputation.

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Over 40% drop in rainfall ravages crops in Punjab

A severe winter drought is wreaking havoc on crops across Punjab, Pakistan’s agricultural heartland, with the region experiencing a 40% drop in rainfall. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported a 42% reduction in rainfall from September to mid-January, leaving farmers grappling with major financial losses. Malik Asghar, chairman of the Punjab Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, highlighted the situation, saying, "The lack of rains has had a major financial impact on farmers. Normally, we would harvest 100 to 120 sacks of potatoes per acre; this year, it’s barely 60." Agriculture is a crucial sector for Pakistan, contributing nearly a quarter of the country’s GDP and employing 37% of the national workforce. However, Asghar warned that many small farmers are already "giving up" and seeking jobs in urban areas as their livelihoods face mounting challenges. "This spell of dry weather will have a very adverse effect on them," he said. The drought is not isolated to Punjab; Sindh saw a 52% reduction in rainfall, while Balochistan experienced a 45% drop. The PMD classified January’s weather as a "mild drought" in much of Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Balochistan, predicting "flash droughts" in the warmer months. Ishfaq Ahmad Jatt, a wheat farmer from Multan, explained that his harvest was "badly affected" by the lack of rain. He predicted a potential 50% drop in wheat production if the drought continues. Pakistan relies heavily on the Indus River for water, but experts argue that the country’s rapid population growth, poor water management, and reliance on a single water source are exacerbating the situation. This drought comes just two years after record monsoon rains caused catastrophic floods that left a third of the country submerged. The country also suffers from thick winter smog, worsened by the drought, which traps pollution close to the ground, leading to hazardous air quality. Pakistan ranks among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, and experts warn that such extreme weather events will only become more frequent and severe. With crop failures and worsening air quality, the country’s agricultural sector faces an uncertain future as farmers are now calling for urgent action to address water scarcity and invest in more sustainable agricultural practices.

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Paris court sentences Pakistani man to 30 years for 2020 Charlie Hebdo attack

A Paris court on Thursday sentenced a Pakistani man to 30 years in jail for attempting to murder two people outside the former offices of Charlie Hebdo in 2020 with a meat cleaver. When he carried out the attack, 29-year-old Zaheer Mahmood wrongly believed the satirical newspaper was still based in the building, which was targeted by Islamists a decade ago for publishing cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. The newspaper had in fact moved in the wake of the attack, which killed 12 people including eight of the paper’s editorial staff. The killings in 2015 shocked France and triggered a fierce debate about freedom of expression and religion. Originally from rural Pakistan, Mahmood arrived in France illegally in the summer of 2019. The court had earlier heard how Mahmood was influenced by radical Pakistani preacher Khadim Hussain Rizvi, who had called for the beheading of blasphemers to “avenge the Prophet.” Mahmood was convicted of attempted murder and terrorist conspiracy, and handed a ban from ever setting foot on French soil again.

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Tarar claims govt was considering 'middle ground' on PTI's demands

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar criticised PTI’s decision to call off negotiations, stating that the government was considering a "middle ground" by proposing a committee instead of a judicial commission. "It is not necessary to constitute a commission...we were deliberating on a middle ground to take things forward," Tarar said during an appearance on a private news channel on Thursday. He accused PTI of acting with "malicious intent" and making a "hasty decision." "Our response to PTI's demands was to come," he said, adding that "extensive discussions" had been held on the matter. He further criticised the party, saying, "They should have found a legitimate excuse to prove they had been victimised. Now the onus is on them." Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has called off negotiations with the PML-N-led government, citing its failure to form a judicial commission within the promised seven-day timeframe. Speaking to the media outside Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said the decision was made after Khan expressed frustration over the government’s inaction. "The founder of PTI has categorically announced that no further rounds of negotiations will take place," Gohar stated. "The government made announcements but has yet to follow through, which is why Imran Khan decided to end the negotiations." The talks, which began in December 2024, to reduce political tensions, have seen three sessions so far but have made little progress. PTI had demanded the formation of two judicial commissions — one to investigate the May 9, 2023 riots and another to probe the November 26, 2024 crackdown on PTI supporters in Islamabad. The party also sought the release of "political prisoners."

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Journalists reject PECA amendments, demand repeal

Journalists' organisations across Pakistan have strongly opposed recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), expressing concerns over the lack of consultation and its implications for press freedom. A joint action committee, comprising the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AMEND), and the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), issued a statement rejecting the amendments and demanding their immediate withdrawal. The committee emphasized that the changes to the PECA Act were introduced without consulting media stakeholders, a move it described as unacceptable. The PFUJ separately termed the amendments deceptive, with President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari labeling them unnecessary and a violation of constitutional rights as they claimed the amendments were a calculated effort to suppress the media, social media platforms, and the broader journalistic community. In its statement, the Karachi Press Club (KPC) also voiced strong reservations, condemning the amendments as a threat to freedom of expression. The club’s President Fazil Jamili and Secretary Sohail Afzal Khan highlighted that Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of speech. They criticised the government for failing to consult stakeholders before passing the amendments and demanded the law be repealed. The KPC proposed that the government empower mainstream media to report accurate information in real time and combat misinformation on social media through inclusive legislation involving all stakeholders. The recently passed amendments, introduced in the National Assembly under a supplementary agenda, propose establishing a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) with powers to remove online content, restrict access to prohibited material, and penalize individuals sharing such content. The amendments redefine "social media platforms" to include tools and software used to access them and extend the law’s scope to websites, applications, and communication channels. Further, the amendments suggest disbanding the FIA Cybercrime Wing and replacing it with stricter penalties. For instance, sharing expunged material from parliamentary or provincial assemblies on social media could result in up to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of Rs2 million. Journalists protested the bill during its presentation in the National Assembly, walking out from the press gallery in a show of defiance. The KPC and other organizations have called for immediate repeal of the "black law" and announced plans to decide their future course of action through consultations. The amendments have sparked significant backlash, with critics labeling them an attack on press freedom and freedom of expression, urging the government to engage media bodies and civil society representatives before implementing any legislation affecting digital and press rights.

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ATC issues arrest warrants for Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz over May 9 riots

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Pakistan on Wednesday issued non-bailable arrest warrants for key aides of former prime minister Imran Khan in connection with riots and attacks on military installations during May 9, 2023, protests. The warrants were issued for Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub, Opposition Leader in the Senate Senator Shibli Faraz, Kanwal Shauzab, and former party leader Fawad Chaudhry after they failed to appear before the court. The case stems from incidents registered at the Civil Lines Police Station, local media reported. The PTI has maintained that the charges are politically motivated to sideline Khan at the behest of Pakistan's powerful military. The military has denied these accusations. The protests erupted after Imran Khan was arrested by the national anti-corruption agency over a land graft case. Demonstrators ransacked state buildings, including the military’s GHQ in Rawalpindi and the Lahore residence of the army's top commander. The unrest resulted in the arrests of nearly 2,000 PTI supporters and leaders, and at least eight deaths. Khan, who was indicted last month on charges of inciting violence against military installations, remains imprisoned following his August 2023 conviction on corruption charges. Despite the PTI being barred from the February 2024 election, its independent candidates secured the most seats but not enough to form a government. Last month, the government initiated talks with the PTI to de-escalate political tensions. The PTI has insisted on judicial commissions to probe violence during protests in May 9 and November 26 before engaging further.

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Pakistan, Turkiye discuss expanding job opportunities for skilled workers

Religious Affairs Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain met Turkish Ambassador Irfan Nazir Oglu on Wednesday to explore avenues for providing modern technical education and increasing job opportunities for skilled Pakistani workers in Turkiye, according to a statement from the ministry. During the meeting, the two sides discussed proposals related to religious harmony, respect for humanity, and cooperation in promoting skilled manpower. The Turkish ambassador reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to expanding employment opportunities for Pakistani workers and enhancing technical training in Pakistan. “Both nations share similar stances on regional and global issues and have consistently supported each other on international platforms,” Hussain said. The ambassador expressed condolences over the deaths of Pakistanis in the recent Morocco boat tragedy and highlighted Turkiye’s efforts to supply machinery to Pakistani industries and boost joint investment. Last year, 600,000 Pakistanis went abroad for employment, with overseas remittances reaching a record $3.1 billion by December, 2024. Both sides agreed that improving banking channels between Pakistan and Turkiye is critical for boosting trade, which the two countries aim to expand to $5 billion. The meeting concluded with commitments to strengthen efforts against extremism, promote interfaith harmony, and enhance bilateral cooperation in education and technical training.

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PTI faces internal rift over Bushra Bibi’s spokesperson role

A controversy has erupted within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over who will serve as Bushra Bibi's spokesperson following the sentencing of party founder Imran Khan in the £190 million reference case. Both Musarrat Jamshed Cheema and Mishal Yousafzai have laid claim to the position. During court hearing for the May 9 GHQ attack case at Adiala Jail, Mishal Yousafzai asserted that Imran Khan had appointed her as Bushra Bibi's focal person and spokesperson. She also claimed Khan instructed Cheema to accompany her in media briefings. Conversely, Musarrat Jamshed Cheema contended that she was designated as the spokesperson, while Yousafzai was tasked solely with handling Bushra Bibi’s legal matters. When asked for clarity, Khan's lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, stated, “The party can officially notify anyone for the spokesperson role. I will comment further once the notification is issued.” Speaking to the media, Yousafzai alleged she faces internal conspiracies orchestrated by associates trying to block her prison access. “I won’t remain silent. I will resist,” she vowed, adding that she remains Bushra Bibi’s focal person and spokesperson. “Musarrat Cheema will stand alongside me during media talks, but I have always been the spokesperson, and I will continue to be.” Cheema has yet to issue an official response to Yousafzai’s remarks.

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PTB concerned over 'unnecessary tax cases'

The Pakistan Tax Bar (PTB) has shown reservations on FBR's legal matters, claiming the revenue collection authority is filing unnecessary tax cases. In a letter written to Prime Minister Shehzab Sharif, the PTB said the revenue collection authority is filing unnecessary and weak cases, which is tantamount to discourage the tax payers. The tax cases are pending in courts and other platforms. The PTB demanded that the government set up steering committee to review the tax cases. With the establishment of steering committee, the tax cases will go down by 50 percent, it added.

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PPP, PML-N lock horns in Senate over Sindh's water rights

The ongoing water distribution dispute in Senate has intensified tensions between the government and coalition partner Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), further fueled by controversial remarks from Minister Aleem Khan regarding past infrastructure failures. The debate took place during a session on Tuesday chaired by Deputy Chairman of the Senate, Syed Ali Khan; where the PPP leaders challenged the government's water distribution figures, claiming they were at odds with ground realities. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman accused the government of constructing new canals on the Indus River, which she argued would deprive Sindh province of its fair share of water. In response, Senator Irfan Siddiqui from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) dismissed the objections as unfounded, arguing that the water distribution was in line with the established formula. Minister for Water Resources Khawaja Muddasir Malik presented the government's official water distribution figures, emphasizing that no one's share was reduced, and argued that any new canals were part of the allocated share. Rehman, representing the PPP, raised a motion of adjournment, accusing the government of withholding water from Sindh, particularly in light of the government's plans to alter water flows in the Cholistani desert to bring more arable land under cultivation. She highlighted protests across Sindh, pointing out that despite the 25-year-long water scarcity reports by IRSA (Indus River System Authority), both Balochistan and Sindh had raised concerns about the situation as she underscored the challenges faced by Karachi, where residents are struggling to access even basic water supplies. She also mentioned that no meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) had been held in the past 11 months, calling for regular CCI meetings every three months. She urged the government to clarify its stance on the water issue. Siddiqui responded by asserting that the water distribution formula was being followed and that any objections to canal construction were baseless. In the session, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Shibli Faraz expressed support for the PPP’s stance, criticising the lack of CCI meetings on such pressing issues. Meanwhile, PPP senators raised concerns about the decreasing frequency of PIA flights to southern Punjab and the closure of airports, highlighting that 20 PIA staff members had flown free on a flight to Paris. The issue prompted an inquiry, which was accepted by the law minister. Following a request from PPP members to refer the water distribution issue to a committee, Deputy Chairman Syed Ali Khan rejected the motion, stating that the Minister had already responded after a two-and-a-half-hour discussion. Protests and apologies over Aleem Khan's remarks The session also saw protests from PPP members following comments made by Aleem Khan, regarding the PPP’s role in road infrastructure projects. Khan’s comments, in which he criticised the previous government’s failure to complete the M-6 motorway project, were met with strong opposition from PPP members. In response to the protests, Khan apologised, stating that he held all political leaders, including PPP, PML-N, and PTI, in high regard. He reiterated that the government’s commitment to building the M-6 motorway from Sukkur to Karachi was still on track, with detailed designs and cost estimates already completed. He assured the Senate that construction would begin in 2025, and that the motorway would benefit all of Pakistan, not just Sindh. Meanwhile, PPP Senator Manzoor Ahmed took issue with Khan’s comments, pointing out that the M-6 motorway had not been a priority during previous governments. Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri also criticised Khan for his lack of awareness regarding regional issues in Balochistan, where daily fatalities were being reported due to the absence of effective governance.

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Punjab bans kite flying permanently ahead of Basant

Lawmakers in Punjab have passed a new law that permanently bans kite flying across the region, a move that comes just ahead of the long-anticipated Basant festival, traditionally marked by massive kite-flying celebrations. The law, passed on Tuesday, imposes severe penalties for violators, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Originally imposed in Lahore in 2005 following a series of fatal accidents where bystanders were injured or killed by metal or glass-coated kite strings, the ban was extended to other cities over the years. Under the new legislation, the ban will now be enforced throughout the entire province, with violators facing prison terms ranging from three to five years and fines up to Rs2 million. Similarly, Kite and string manufacturers could face even harsher penalties, with possible sentences of up to seven years and fines as high as Rs5 million. Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, a lawmaker from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League, introduced the bill, stating that the new measures were essential to protect the public from the dangers posed by unsafe kite-flying practices. Basant, the centuries-old festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, is renowned for its vibrant kite-flying competitions, with participants launching colorful kites into the sky to mark the season. The name "Basant" is derived from the Hindi word for "yellow," symbolising the blooming fields of mustard flowers during spring. Earlier this month, the Rawalpindi Kite Flying Association declared its intent to celebrate Basant on February 13 and 14. The association announced plans for the festivities, which would include "kite flying, loud cheers, and aerial firing," and urged authorities to lift the ban, proposing conditions to regulate the use of dangerous chemical-coated strings. Vice chairman of the association, Haji Iqbal, defended the tradition, emphasizing that Basant is a cultural festival and that the ban was unjust. "We will celebrate Basant in full swing this year," he declared. "By January 31, thousands of kites and strings will be available across Rawalpindi, and sales will also be conducted door-to-door."

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Govt yet to decide on formation of judicial commission: Irfan Siddiqui

Senator Irfan Siddiqui, spokesperson for the government’s negotiation committee, has confirmed that no decision has been made regarding the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the events of May 9 and November 26. Siddiqui made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking to the media after the first round of discussions convened to review Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) demands. The meeting, chaired by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, was held in the Speaker’s Chamber. The session was attended by a host of political heavyweights, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Aleem Khan, Salik Hussain, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Rana Sanaullah, Dr Farooq Sattar, Ejaz ul Haq, and Khalid Magsi. During the discussions, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar provided a detailed briefing on each point of the opposition’s charter of demands. Siddiqui noted that representatives from all seven parties in the committee engaged in comprehensive discussions but clarified that the legal committee had yet to form a conclusive opinion on PTI’s proposals. The senator announced that deliberations would continue in another session scheduled for Wednesday. He further assured that the fourth round of negotiations would take place after seven working days, in line with the planned timetable. PTI’s stance PTI has maintained a firm position, demanding the formation of a judicial commission as a precondition for continued talks. Addressing the media outside Adiala Jail on Monday, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated the party's stance. “PTI is willing to continue talks with the government, but forming a judicial commission is a key condition,” he said. Gohar emphasised that without progress on this demand, there was little point in further dialogue. He appealed for patience and mutual understanding, saying, “Successful negotiations mean a successful Pakistan.” As both sides prepare for further discussions, the spotlight remains on whether the government will meet PTI's demand for a judicial commission. With tensions running high, the outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the country’s political landscape.

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Haripur cops warned against using social media

Haripur police officials have been warned against posting videos in police uniforms and carrying firearms online. According to officials, Hazara Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Nasir Mehmood Satti has decided to take action against those involved in creating TikTok videos and maintaining connections with criminal elements. The DIG stated that corruption, involvement in crime and associations with criminals will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Speaking at a police assembly in Haripur, the DIG emphasised that police officers and personnel assigned to development projects and industrial areas should remain on high alert at all times. He urged officers to treat citizens visiting police offices courteously and to offer all possible legal assistance. He also instructed that personal promotion on social media platforms should be avoided, and departmental action will be taken against any employees found violating this directive. During his visit to Haripur, DIG Nasir Mehmood Satti listened to the concerns of police employees and issued immediate instructions for the resolution of their issues. He also visited the district police officer's office, inspected the command and control room, and reviewed various branches of the department, providing guidance and feedback on their operations.

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Iran's military chief discusses defence cooperation with COAS Asim Munir

Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Iranian Armed Forces, visited Pakistan’s General Headquarters (GHQ) and met with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, the military’s media wing said on Monday. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on the prevailing regional security environment and explored avenues for bilateral defence cooperation, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Upon arrival, Major General Bagheri laid a floral wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada, paying tribute to Pakistan’s martyrs. He was accorded a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army. The visit underscores the continued efforts by both nations to strengthen regional security ties and enhance bilateral military collaboration.

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President Zardari, PM Shehbaz congratulate Donald Trump on presidency

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended their congratulations to Donald Trump on becoming the 47th President of the United States. President Zardari conveyed his best wishes to the new US president, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his sentiments in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “I look forward to working with him to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between the United States and Pakistan,” PM Shehbaz wrote. Highlighting the decades-old collaboration, the prime minister added, “For years, these two great nations have worked together to promote peace and prosperity in the region for their people. We will continue this cooperation into the future.” Donald Trump sworn in for second term Donald Trump vowed to usher in a new era of American greatness, minutes after he was sworn in as president for the second time to complete an extraordinary political comeback following two assassination attempts, a felony conviction and an indictment for attempting to overturn his 2020 election loss. "The golden age of America begins right now," he said. Trump took the oath of office to "preserve, protect and defend" the US Constitution inside the US Capitol, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. His vice president, JD Vance, was sworn in just before him.

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Tourists throng scenic Neelam Valley amid snowfall

A heavy influx of tourists from various parts of the country thronged the scenic snow-clad Neelam Valley of Azad Jammu Kashmir on Sunday. After over three months of dry weather, the higher reach-es of the picturesque valley lashed with the 3rd spell of the highest snowfall, bringing delight to residents and tourists. Subordinate Graze Valley has disliked from central spots following heavy intermittent snowfall at the highest reaches of the snow-clad Neelam Valley, State Disaster Management Authority sources told APP. Tourist hotspots in the picturesque, mountainous terrain of the picturesque valley witnessed varying degrees of medi-um- to high-level snowfall. The popular snow-clad resorts turned in the scenic valley turned into playgrounds for tourists from various parts of Pakistan and AJK, capturing memorable moments and ex-pressing joy by playing in the snow. Meanwhile, forecast anticipates the possibility of light to moderate rain or snow in many places at both sides of the LoC in IIOJ&K state, with heavy snowfall expected in isolat-ed upper reaches of Indian Illegally occupied Kashmir Divi-sion, including districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandi-pora, Ganderbal, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam, says a re-port reaching from across the line of control (LoC). The residents of these high-altitude areas have been strict-ly advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into ava-lanche-prone zones over the next 24 hours, according to AJKSDMA. It recommends that people stay informed about the situa-tion and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate the risk of potential avalanches in the snow-clad areas.

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Jails overflowing at 152% capacity

With 102,026 inmates crammed into 128 jails across Pakistan, including Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), the country's prison system is operating at an alarming 152.2% of its official capacity, according to the Prison Data Report 2024. The groundbreaking report by Justice Project Pakistan (JPP) sheds light on the dire conditions, with some prisons exceeding 300% of their capacity. The report reveals that overcrowding remains a critical concern despite a modest 1.66% increase in the prison population from 2023. Under-trial prisoners constitute 73.41% of the total population, underscoring systemic inefficiencies such as prolonged judicial delays and ineffective bail and parole systems. Punjab, housing 60.7% of the prison population, operates its jails at 173.6% of capacity. Sindh follows with 161.42%, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa at 102.50%, and Balochistan at 115.60%. Karachi Central Prison exemplifies the crisis, accommodating 8,518 inmates against a capacity of 2,400 – a staggering 354.92%. In Punjab, 61,813 prisoners are held in facilities designed for 37,217 inmates. Despite the construction of four new jails with a capacity of 2,268 inmates, the province's efforts to alleviate overcrowding remain inadequate. The number of under-trial prisoners has increased by 8% over the past eight years, rising from 66% in 2017 to 73.41% in 2024. This is significantly higher than the global average of 27%. The report also highlights the inconsistency in reporting pre-trial detainees. Sindh recorded a 29.5% decrease in pre-trial detainees in 2024, while Punjab and K-P failed to report any data. Drug-related offences continue to dominate prison populations, with 23,367 inmates incarcerated under the Control of Narcotics Substances Act (CNSA) – an 18.98% increase from 2023. Punjab leads with 13,331 cases, accounting for 29.94% of its total prison population. Ironically, while incarceration rates for drug offences have surged, conviction rates have plummeted. Punjab saw a drop from 16% in 2022 to just 2% in 2023. Death row prisoners also saw a slight increase, rising by 1.17% to 3,646 in 2024, despite no executions since December 2019. The report criticises outdated prison rules, particularly in Punjab, where the 1978 Prison Rules fail to align with international standards. Proposed reforms, including the Draft Punjab Prison Rules 2020 and 2022, remain unadopted. Meanwhile, Sindh and K-P have made strides, with the Sindh Prisons and Corrections Services Act 2019 and the K-P Prisons Amendment Act 2020 aligning more closely with international standards.

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Sindh issues health alert as Covid-19, H1N1 cases increase

The Sindh health department has issued directives to all district health officers to take immediate measures following a surge in Covid-19 and H1N1 influenza cases across the province, Express News reported. According to the directive from the director general of health services, all healthcare centres must ensure strict monitoring of cases to enable early detection and prompt treatment. Suspected and confirmed cases should be reported without delay. Hospitals have been instructed to ensure the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical staff to prevent infections. Additionally, public awareness campaigns will be launched to highlight the benefits of vaccination and encourage people to get inoculated. Both public and private healthcare facilities have been directed to implement effective infection control measures to curb the spread of diseases. Authorities will also promote preventive measures such as mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and social distancing. The directive emphasised the importance of educating the public about symptoms of Covid-19 and H1N1 to facilitate timely medical intervention. Health authorities will compile and submit weekly reports on case numbers and response measures to relevant institutions for continuous assessment and immediate corrective actions. The Sindh health department has urged strict compliance with these measures to safeguard public health.

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JCP set to convene on Feb 1 for PHC hiring

The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) is scheduled to meet again on February 1 to nominate nine additional judges to the Peshawar High Court (PHC). The meeting will be held in the Supreme Court building in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi. According to sources, a total of 40 names have been sent to the JCP for consideration. These include the names of four district and session judges: Kaleem Arshad Khan, Farrukh Jamshed, Inaamullah Khan and Sophia Waqar Khattak. Lawyers whose names will be considered for nomination to the PHC include Abdul Fayyaz, Kaleem Khan, Aamir Javed, Atif Ali Khan, Aurangzeb, Bakht Jamal Khan, Basharat Khan, Bilal Ahmed Durrani, Ghulam Muhammad Sipal, Junaid Anwar, Kausar Ali Shah, and Mansoor Tariq. The list also features Muhammad Ali Khan, Muhammad Bashar Naveed, Muhammad Habib Qureshi, Inam Khan, Ikram Khan, Muhammad Javed Khan, Muhammad Rafiq, Muhammad Tariq Afridi, Mukhtar Ahmed Muniri, Nasir Mahmood, Nauman Haq, Qazi Babar Irshad, and Qazi Jawad Ehsanullah. Lawyers Rahila Bibi, Sabtullah Khan, Sadiq Ali, Salahuddin, Sardar Ali Raza, Shabnam Nawaz, Shah Faisal, Shumail Butt, Syed Mudassir Amir, Syed Shakeel Khan Gilani, and Syed Sikandar Hayat Shah are also included. A day earlier, on Friday, the JCP held two separate meetings for considering candidates for positions of additional judges at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) and the Balochistan High Court (BHC). In the first meeting, the commission, by a majority vote of its total membership, nominated Islamabad District & Session Judge Muhammad Azam Khan and Advocate Supreme Court Inaam Ameen Minhas as additional judges to the IHC. In the second meeting, the JCP unanimously nominated Muhammad Asif and Muhammad Ayub Khan—both advocates of the Supreme Court as additional judges at the BHC. The council nominated Muhammad Najam-ud-Din Mengal for the same position with a majority vote. Mengal is also an advocate of the Supreme Court. "In both meetings, the commission unanimously decided that nominees who did not secure the required majority of the total membership of the JCP for finalization of their nominations this time may be re-nominated for future vacancies," said a statement issued by the SC registrar office.

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Pakistan navy takes lead over India in AIP submarine technology

Pakistan's navy has taken a significant lead over India in the field of Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, with further advancements expected. According to reports, the Pakistan Navy has surpassed the Indian Navy in adopting AIP technology, with Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines set to join its fleet according to schedule. India’s recent addition of the sixth and final submarine in the P-75 Scorpene project, along with a stealth frigate and guided missile destroyer, is still behind Pakistan’s capabilities. Despite this, India’s naval fleet remains without any submarines equipped with modern technology, while Pakistan has already integrated three French-made Agosta-90B submarines (PNS Khalid, Saad, and Hamza) into its fleet. The Hangor-class submarines, manufactured in China, are expected to join the Pakistan Navy in the early 2030s, bringing the total number of AIP-equipped submarines to 11. These submarines are expected to significantly enhance Pakistan’s underwater naval capabilities. Pakistan’s naval expansion plan includes an increase in its fleet to 50 warships, which will comprise 20 major vessels, frigates, and corvettes. Alongside, Pakistan is developing a robust submarine fleet, which will consist of 11 submarines. Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Pakistan Navy, told Chinese media that the construction of four Hangor-class submarines is progressing according to schedule. “These submarines will significantly enhance Pakistan’s naval capabilities, providing the navy with the ability to conduct various operations with powerful weapons,” he said. “The project is moving forward on track, and we expect these submarines to soon be part of the Pakistan Navy’s fleet,” Admiral Ashraf added.

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Al-Qadir University – hopes and fears

The Al-Qadir Trust case or the £190 million case against former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan dominated the local as well as international media scene for more than two years. The trial in the case concluded on Friday in the conviction of Imran and his wife Bushra Bibi with jail terms and fines. In addition to that the Islamabad Accountability Court ordered the nationalisation of the Al-Qadir University. Founded in 2019, the university is run by the Al-Qadir Trust in which both Imran and Bibi are the trustees. The former prime minister was the chairman of the board of trustees, while Bibi was a member. The teaching started with 30 students in 2021. The university, sprawling over 458 kanals or around 57 acres, is located in the on the GT Road in Sohawa Tehsil of Jhelum district, approximately 85 kilometres from Islamabad. According to BBC report, it is nestled in the foothills, with no significant surrounding population. A BBC reporter, who visited the university, reported that at present over 200 students were enrolled, studying Management Sciences and Islamic Studies, which also combined spirituality. The report added that most of the students come from remote areas studying on scholarships, receiving free education.

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Rain, snow, and flash floods predicted across Pakistan from today

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather warning, predicting that western winds will enter the country from Saturday, bringing with them widespread rainfall and snowfall. According to the department, from January 18 to 20, areas in Balochistan such as Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Chagai, Nushki, Kalat, and Kech are expected to experience intermittent rainfall and snowfall in the mountainous regions, accompanied by strong winds. Similarly, Barakhan, Khuzdar, Hernai, Zhob, Musa Khel, Kharan, Panjgur, and Gwadar will witness moderate rainfall, strong winds, and snow in the mountains during the same period. The Meteorological Department reported that from January 18 to 21, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will experience heavy winds and intermittent rainfall in areas including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, and Kurram, with the possibility of snowfall in the mountainous regions.         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Pakistan Meteorological Department (@pmdgov) In addition, areas like Waziristan, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Karak, Kohat, Murree, Galiyat, Gilgit-Baltistan (including Diamer, Astor, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, Shigar), and Kashmir (including Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sadhnoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur) are expected to experience moderate rainfall with snow in the mountains and strong winds. Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal will witness strong winds and light rainfall on January 18 and 19, the met department added. The statement said that flash flooding is expected in Chagai, Nushki, Kharan, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, and Quetta on the night of January 18 and the morning of January 19 due to moderate rainfall. Met office warned that the Snowfall in areas like Naran, Kaghan, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astor, Hunza, Skardu, and Neelum Valley could lead to road closures and disruptions to traffic flow as the road closures and slippery conditions is also anticipated in regions such as Bagh, Poonch, Haveli, Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, and Qilla Saifullah. There is also a significant risk of landslides and avalanches in the mountainous areas of Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the statement added. Authorities have advised tourists heading to northern regions and hilly areas to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines whereas farmers have been urged to adjust their activities according to the weather forecast to avoid potential damage to crops and property. The PMD has asked citizens to stay updated with weather warnings and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to flooding and snowfall.

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Govt approves IMF-required electricity tariff re-basing

The government has met another requirement set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by approving a summary for the annual re-basing of electricity tariffs, Express News reported. The decision was made during a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) in Islamabad, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. In line with the IMF agreement, the ECC directed that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) issue annual policy guidelines for the tariff re-basing process. The re-basing will take effect from January 1 with the Power Division tasked with ensuring NEPRA's adherence to the new guidelines. The ECC meeting also approved significant financial allocations for various sectors as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received a technical grant of over Rs90 million, which will be utilised by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to enhance their operational capabilities. Additionally, the committee sanctioned a grant of Rs940 million to meet the operational needs of the Frontier Corps (FC) North. It also approved the withdrawal of a bank guarantee linked to Afghan transit trade via the Gwadar Port. Further funding was allocated for the establishment of the National Food Safety and Plant Health Regulatory Authority, with the ECC approving a technical grant of Rs910 million for its formation. In an important move for state-owned enterprises, the committee approved a grant of Rs930 million for the payment of salaries to employees of the Pakistan Steel Mills. This grant will be sourced from previously approved funds amounting to Rs3.5 billion.

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Peshawar imposes CNG station ban amid gas pressure crisis

In Peshawar, a ban has been imposed on opening CNG stations under Section 144 due to a decrease in Sui gas pressure as the stations will remain closed until January 19. According to a notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Peshawar, domestic consumers are facing difficulties due to reduced gas pressure. To ensure adequate gas supply for households, a ban has been placed on CNG stations in the city. Under Section 144, opening CNG stations will be prohibited, and any violations will lead to legal action. As a result of the CNG station closures, rickshaw drivers have started using gas cylinders, leading to an increase in fare prices. Additionally, the number of CNG-fueled vehicles on the roads has decreased due to the closures.

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3 years jail, Rs. 50,000 fine for paper leaks as Punjab tackles cheating

The Lahore Education Board in Punjab has introduced new rules, imposing a three-year prison sentence and a Rs.50,000 fine for leaking or sharing exam papers. Under the new rules, government officials involved in leaking exam papers will face imprisonment, fines, and dismissal from their jobs. Additionally, bringing mobile phones into practical exams or any form of interference will result in action under the Yeda Act. Punjab’s Education Minister, Rana Sikandar Hayat, has been leading a significant crackdown on cheating for nearly a year. Reflecting on the operation, he revealed, When we went after the 'booti mafia,' we were shocked by how powerful these individuals were, having gained control over the entire system. He continued, "In March last year, we launched our crackdown against cheating in exams. After months of effort, we busted seven gangs, each operating independently. These gangs were backed by a private school mafia involving government staff, exam boards, and teachers." Rana Sikandar Hayat also mentioned that private staff members at exam centers were caught red-handed, charging up to Rs.10,000 to solve papers for students. "After months of hard work, we focused on legal reforms. The Lahore Board has already started implementing them, and other boards are following suit." He further explained, "The people we caught were running networks to facilitate cheating through social media and other digital platforms. Despite filing cases, many managed to escape because there were no laws to address digital cheating. Now, we've closed all those loopholes." "From now on, anyone caught cheating will go straight to jail, and there will be no bail in such cases," he added. Teacher associations have welcomed the enforcement of stricter anti-cheating laws.

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PTCL issues update on internet disruption nationwide

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has successfully restored its internet services after resolving a fault in the AAEE-1 submarine cable that had caused widespread disruptions. According to a PTCL spokesperson, the company addressed the issue in record time, ensuring a return to normal internet speeds and smooth browsing for its customers. The spokesperson also highlighted that PTCL added additional bandwidth to minimise disruptions during the repair process. Following the fix, services such as Meta platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, have resumed with full functionality and seamless experience. Both PTCL and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) teams worked tirelessly to restore connectivity. PTCL expressed gratitude to its customers for their patience and cooperation during the outage.

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Gujrat court cancels Moonis arrest warrant

A court in Gujrat has cancelled the arrest warrant and proclamation order against PTI leader Moonis Elahi in a murder case on an appeal filed by his mother Begum Qaisara Elahi. The appeal was filed in the court of Sessions Judge Saifullah Tarar against the court order declaring Moonis Elahi as a proclaimed offender in a murder case as he skipped the court hearings. The plaintiff said in her petition that the murder case was registered on June 29 while Moonis Elahi had been out of the country since December 28, 2022. She submitted that the police with mala fide intension implicated her son in the case. Besides, the plaintiff of the murder case Muhammad Akram and witnesses Muhammad Asjad and Sajjad Ashraf submitted their affidavits in the court, saying that they did not suspect that Moonis Elahi was involved in the murder case. They prayed to the court to set aside the order against Moonis Elahi in the case as they believed he had nothing to do with the case. Keeping in view the statements of the plaintiff and witnesses, the court cancelled the arrest warrant and proclamation order against PTI leader Moonis Elahi.

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Apex court judge highlights security breach on May 9

Justice Syed Hasan Zafar Rizvi, a member of the Constitutional Bench (CB) of the apex court, has described the trespassing of rioters into military installations after arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan on May 9, 2023 as a "security breach" During hearing of a case related to the trial of May 9 rioters in military courts, Justice Rizvi addressed the lawyers for the Ministry of Defense, Khawaja Haris, if any military personnel was also tried by military court in connection with May 9 incidents of vandalism. "How people on May 9 managed to reach the [Lahore] Corps Commander House. Is it not a security breach?" he asked. The judge said on that day military installations and memorials were damaged. "Did authorities offer any resistance? Resistance can be offered without opening fire," he added. Responding to the queries, Haris said no military official faced any trial in the wake of May 9 incidents. He said during the attacks by rioters' authorities exhibited complete restraint to avoid loss of lives. Justice Rizvi remarked that there must be a mastermind or instigator behind such events and asked who orchestrated the conspiracy. Haris stated that conspirators or masterminds would also be tried in military courts. He said trials of civilians in military courts have been happening since 1967. On Tuesday, the seven-member CB led by Justice Aminuddin Khan and comprising Justices Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Musarrat Hilali, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Shahid Bilal Hassan heard the case. During the hearing, Justice Musarrat Hilali inquired about the jurisdiction of military courts, asking what if a civilian had a dispute with a soldier in a cantonment area. Khawaja Haris said such a disagreement would be a separate matter. He argued that even in peacetime, civilians interfering in military affairs are subject to trial in military courts. Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail questioned where the case would be tried if a soldier's rifle was stolen. Haris responded that a rifle is a soldier's combat weapon, integral to warfare. Justice Hilali asked whether a civilian stealing for financial gain, without the intention to disarm the army, would face trial in a military court. The lawyer said the circumstances would dictate the trial's jurisdiction. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar highlighted that the Official Secrets Act, 1923 specifies which crimes fall under the purview of military courts. Justice Hilali remarked that during the events of May 9 and May 10, some protestors were unaware of what was happening. The hearing of the case will resume today, Wednesday.

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Punjab cabinet rejects proposal to rename Lahore's Gaddafi stadium

The Punjab cabinet has rejected the proposal to rename the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. During the 22nd meeting of the provincial cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, various agenda points were discussed, including the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations. However, the cabinet decided against renaming the iconic stadium. This decision comes in the wake of Karachi’s National Stadium being renamed National Bank Cricket Arena in 2022. The idea of renaming Gaddafi Stadium was initially raised in 2022 when former PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja suggested the stadium be renamed after a new sponsor, citing financial reasons behind the proposed change. While Raja succeeded in renaming Karachi's National Stadium, the fate of Gaddafi Stadium remains uncertain. This is not the first time authorities have considered changing the name of the stadium. In February 2013, shortly after the death of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, the Punjab Olympic Association urged the provincial government to reconsider the name in light of growing public sentiment against the former Libyan leader. Originally built in 1959, the stadium was first named 'Lahore Stadium.' However, in 1974, when Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi visited Pakistan during the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Lahore, he delivered a speech supporting Pakistan's pursuit of nuclear weapons. In response, then-prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto decided to rename the stadium in honor of Gaddafi. Following Gaddafi’s ouster from power, there were calls to dissociate the stadium from the former Libyan leader. However, these movements gradually lost momentum, and the name “Gaddafi Stadium” has remained.

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Pakistan, Bangladesh sign landmark agreement to establish joint business council

Pakistan and Bangladesh have signed a landmark agreement to establish a joint business council, marking a significant step towards enhancing trade and economic cooperation between the two nations, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) announced on Tuesday. The agreement comes after years of complex relations, with the two countries sharing a history dating back to when they were one entity, East and West Pakistan, until Bangladesh gained independence in 1971 following a war of liberation supported by India. Relations had deteriorated further in 2016 when Bangladesh executed several Jamaat-e-Islami leaders for alleged war crimes during the 1971 conflict, which Pakistan condemned as politically motivated. However, recent developments have seen a thaw in relations. Following the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina last year and subsequent unrest in Bangladesh, ties have gradually improved. This new business council represents a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral relations. FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, who signed the agreement with Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce representatives, described the establishment of the council as a "milestone" in trade relations. He led a Pakistani business delegation to Bangladesh, where discussions focused on improving trade ties and addressing key issues such as air connectivity, visa facilitation, and creating stronger trade partnerships. Speaking at a business forum hosted by the Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh stressed the need for mutual cooperation between the two nations’ business communities. “There are vast opportunities for collaboration in agriculture, education, textiles, and other sectors. The large populations of both countries should not be seen as a challenge but as an opportunity to drive economic growth,” he said. In a bid to further strengthen economic ties, the Trade Corporation of Pakistan also signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday for the export of rice to Bangladesh. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is set to visit Dhaka in February to continue consolidating the relationship between the two countries. This agreement signals a promising future for Pakistan and Bangladesh as they work towards greater economic collaboration in the coming years.

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FO condemns growing 'anti-Pakistani' rhetoric in UK

The Foreign Office (FO) on Monday strongly condemned the "increasingly racist and Islamophobic" rhetoric targeting Pakistanis in the United Kingdom, expressing deep concerns over the demonisation of the entire community based on reprehensible actions of a few. The FO's statement followed a social media controversy involving tech billionaire Elon Musk, who entered a heated debate about the term "Asian grooming gangs". Musk's remarks raised concerns about reinforcing harmful stereotypes about Pakistanis. Using his platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk criticised the UK government over grooming gangs and accused a prominent Labour leader of being a "rape genocide apologist". He went further, demanding that both the Labour leader and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer be jailed. The debate was intensified when Priyanka Chaturvedi, a leader of India's Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction), tweeted: "Repeat after me, they aren't ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs." Musk replied with a curt "true". Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan issued a detailed statement, expressing deep concern over the growing trend of conflating the criminal actions of a few individuals with the entire British Pakistani community. "As such, we note with deep concern the increasingly racist and Islamophobic political and media commentary in the UK that is aimed at conflating the reprehensible actions of a few individuals with the entire 1.7 million British Pakistani diaspora," Khan said. He highlighted the long-standing friendship between Pakistan and the UK, calling it a relationship marked by "warmth, cordiality, robust cooperation and trust." "Nurtured over decades, this relationship remains an important priority of Pakistan's foreign policy," he added.

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Rescuers recover bodies of 11 miners after explosion in Balochistan

Rescuers have recovered the bodies of 11 coal miners who died following a methane gas explosion that caused a mine collapse in Balochistan, officials reported on Monday.  According to Abdul Ghani, a mines inspector, search efforts are still ongoing to locate a 12th miner who has been missing since the collapse on Thursday. In a separate incident, two more miners were killed on Sunday when another coal mine collapsed in the Harnai district of Balochistan. These fatalities highlight the ongoing risks faced by workers in the region's coal mining industry. In addition to the mining disasters, security forces recently rescued eight of the 16 mine workers who were kidnapped by militants in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Lakki Marwat. An operation is still underway to rescue the remaining miners.

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Pakistan makes Financial Times' 2025 travel list for stunning mountains

Pakistan has earned a spot in the Financial Times' prestigious list of "50 holidays to take in 2025," with the publication highlighting the country’s "dramatic mountain scenery" and improved security as key reasons for its inclusion. The UK-based international business publication recognized northern Pakistan, particularly the Gilgit-Baltistan region, for its stunning landscapes and the growing appeal of its tourism sector. Gilgit-Baltistan is home to some of the world's tallest peaks, making it a prime destination for mountaineers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts. The region attracts thousands of tourists and climbers each year who engage in expeditions, paragliding, and other adventure sports. The Financial Times noted that the improved security situation, better infrastructure, and enhanced accessibility, including growing flights to gateways like Skardu and Gilgit, have made northern Pakistan more inviting to tourists. The publication also highlighted Pakistan's introduction of free online visas for citizens of over 120 countries in August 2024, further facilitating travel to the region. In addition to trekking and mountaineering, the Financial Times mentioned the opportunity to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage. It referenced a 14-day guided tour by Wild Frontiers, offering a deep immersion in the area's culture, history, and landscapes, with six days dedicated to trekking. This recognition follows similar acknowledgments from international outlets. Earlier in January, CNN included Gilgit-Baltistan in its list of 25 destinations to visit in 2025, further solidifying the region’s emerging reputation as a must-visit tourist destination. Radio Pakistan lauded this recognition, calling it a testament to the country’s efforts in promoting its diverse tourism offerings. The state broadcaster emphasised that with continued infrastructure improvements, Pakistan is poised to become a leading destination for adventure and cultural tourism in the coming years.

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Ashrafi warns against pilgrimage misuse

Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi announced on Sunday that booking process for private Hajj pilgrims had officially commenced from Friday. Ashrafi warned that no private entity was authorised to facilitate visas for beggars and promised strict action against any organisation found complicit in enabling the activities of the begging mafia. "If complaints against these groups are proven, there will be no forgiveness," he concluded. The PUC chairman said Saudi Arabia began preparations for the upcoming Hajj immediately after conclusion of the previous one.

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Khawaja Asif denounces Afghanistan's baseless allegations of terrorist training centres

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has strongly rejected the recent allegations made by Afghanistan's acting foreign minister, describing them as an attempt to shift blame onto Pakistan, Express News reported. In a statement posted on X, the minister denied the claims and insisted that Afghanistan's accusations were baseless. He further highlighted the findings of a United Nations monitoring report, which revealed that more than two dozen terrorist groups, including the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), al-Qaeda, and ISIS, are operating within Afghanistan. "The report clearly states that Afghanistan remains a hub for terrorist recruitment and facilitation, especially for ISIS, which has continued its activities in the region throughout 2024," Asif said. He called on the interim Afghan authorities to take immediate action to dismantle the fundamental structures of terrorism within the country and prevent Afghan soil from being used for attacks against other nations. Earlier this week, Acting Afghanistan Deputy Foreign Minister Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai had asserted that Da'sh operates training centres in Pakistan, where militants are trained for disruptive activities in Afghanistan.

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Verdict on £190m reference to be announced Monday at Adiala Jail

The verdict in the £190 million reference case against PTI founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi will be announced tomorrow at Adiala Jail. The staff of the Accountability Court has formally informed the legal team of the PTI founder regarding the decision, Express News reported. According to Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry, the lawyer for the PTI founder, the staff of the Islamabad Accountability Court officially notified them that the verdict for the £190 million reference will be announced at Adiala Jail on Monday. It is noteworthy that the Accountability Court had previously postponed the verdict in this case twice. The last hearing was held on December 18, 2024, at Adiala Jail. The decision will be delivered in the presence of both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi. Initially, the verdict was set for December 23, 2024, but the court delayed it and rescheduled it for January 6. The new date for the decision is now set for January 13. The trial of the £190 million reference was completed within a year. This is the only case involving Imran Khan that has taken one year to conclude. On November 13, 2023, NAB (National Accountability Bureau) arrested Imran Khan. After 17 days of interrogation at Adiala Jail, the £190 million reference was filed in the Accountability Court on December 1, 2023. The court formally indicted Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi on February 27, 2024. During the trial, statements from a total of 35 witnesses were recorded in the reference. Notably, former principal secretary Azam Khan, former chief minister Pervez Khattak, and former federal minister Zubaida Jalal also gave statements in the case. Throughout the trial, the case saw four different judges. Initially, Judge Mohammad Bashir presided over the hearings, followed by Judge Nasir Javed Rana. The case was later heard by Judge Mohammad Ali Waraich, before returning to Judge Nasir Javed Rana for the final proceedings. What is the £190 million case? The case alleges that Imran Khan and others involved adjusted Rs50 billion—equivalent to £190 million at the time—that was transferred by the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) to the Pakistani government. As PM, Khan obtained cabinet approval for this settlement on December 3, 2019, without disclosing the confidential details of the agreement. The arrangement had stipulated that the funds would be submitted to the Supreme Court. According to NAB officials, Khan and his wife received land worth billions of rupees intended for the construction of an educational institute.

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Pakistan, China reaffirm commitment to high-quality CPEC 2.0 development

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to the high-quality development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) 2.0, with a focus on industrialisation, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), clean energy, agriculture, and livelihood projects. The pledge came during the fifth meeting of the CPEC Joint Working Group on International Cooperation and Coordination, co-chaired by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and China’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong. The meeting recognised CPEC's pivotal role in promoting regional connectivity, win-win cooperation, and shared prosperity. Officials also discussed expanding partnerships with other countries to further these goals. Both sides expressed their resolve to deepen collaboration in media, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people linkages. They highlighted the importance of accelerating the establishment of a "China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era." Foreign Secretary Baloch described CPEC as “the cornerstone of China-Pakistan economic cooperation” and a “shining symbol of the enduring friendship between the two countries.” Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong emphasised the interconnected nature of the five corridors introduced under CPEC 2.0: the growth, livelihood, innovation, open, and green corridors. He noted their alignment with Pakistan’s national development framework, which prioritises five key areas: Exports, E-Pakistan, Energy, Environment, and Equity. The two sides reiterated their shared vision for the high-quality implementation of CPEC projects, aimed at fostering long-term economic benefits and enhancing regional stability.

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Offers made in negotiations, but unaware of backdoor contacts, says Marwat

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shir Afzal Marwat has addressed internal party differences, saying that anyone who speaks against him should not expect him to remain silent. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja and senior leader Sher Afzal Marwat engaged in a war of words, signaling a growing rift within the former ruling party. Raja questioned Marwat’s "competence" to comment on party affairs after the latter raised a query about Raja’s status as the party’s office-holder. Today, speaking on the program Centre Stage, Marwat explained that while he had previously committed not to escalate the issue of Salman Akram Raja, he made it clear that no one had the right to make baseless statements against him in the media. He added that if anyone speaks against him, they should not expect silence in return. Marwat further emphasized that media discussions would only create issues and that he would respond to anyone who spoke about him. He also highlighted that some individuals were unable to tolerate the affection he receives from people, mentioning the presence of pressure groups within the party. He clarified that despite such pressures, he had never approached PTI’s founder to form factions, stressing that he only valued respect. When asked about ongoing talks, Marwat expressed that both the government and PTI were merely engaging in "fireworks," but the dialogue process would continue. He pointed out that PTI’s founder had already suggested that a list of demands be submitted to move forward with the talks. On the matter of meetings with PTI's founder, Marwat stated that arranging such meetings was not a major issue, and if those meetings didn't happen, the negotiations should still continue. He also commented on the recent statement by Speaker of the National Assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, asserting that as a convenor, Sadiq should have scheduled meetings with clear dates, while PTI had not put forward demands beyond the government's capacity to address. Marwat concluded by praising PTI for showing patience in the face of attempts by the government to create discord, expressing confidence that once negotiations commence, the situation will improve. In response to a question about meetings held between November 22 and 25, Marwat confirmed that offers were indeed made, stating that it was incorrect to suggest otherwise. He noted that while he was unaware of any backdoor contacts personally, those who had engaged in such communication in the past were now part of the negotiating team.

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