Pakistan to receive USD 2.75 billion from ADB over the next four years I Sources hint at another constitutional amendment
In Brief
POLITICS
Sources hint at another constitutional amendment
On 28 October, Dawn reported that PM Shehbaz Sharif met PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto in Lahore to discuss a possible 27th amendment that would aim at making changes in the local governance. Sources hinted that the new amendment would likely cater to MQM-P’s demand of giving more powers to local bodies. PML-N’s Rana Sanaullah, however, clarified that both PPP and PML-N are focused on the implementation of the 26th Amendment and no work has started on the 27th amendment. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the need for additional amendments to address issues such as MQM-P’s demand to alter Article 140 A. On the issue of 27th Amendment, PTI has conveyed that it would vehemently oppose any such move if initiated by the government. (Amjad Mahmood, “Ruling allies gearing up for another amendment?,” Dawn, 28 October 2024; Faizan Bangash, Farooq Aqdas, Muhammad Saleh Zaafir and Mumtaz Alvi, “PM Bilawal hold weekend meeting amid talk of 27th Amendment,” The News International, 28 October 2024; “PTI vows to stand against any further constitutional changes,” The News International, 28 October 2024)
Haj Policy to be discussed in cabinet meeting before approval
On 28 October, The News International reported that the government has decided to revoke its earlier decision of passing the Haj Policy 2025 and this now be discussed in the cabinet meeting. The government’s decision came after Federal Minister for Establishment and Economic Affairs Ahar Cheema reminded the former of the norm of presenting Haj policy in cabinet meetings before approval. He also pointed out that some clauses need reconsideration. The government has decided to sponsor 5000 people among which 1000 seats are to be reserved for people with broken families and 300 seats for low wage employees. Applicants must be citizens of Pakistan over the age of 12 and should have passports that have validity till 16 December 2025 for consideration of the Haj scheme and would be chosen through “computerized balloting.” (Muhammad Anis, “Cabinet to review Haj policy,” The News International, 28 October 2024)
Federal government refuses to follow SC’s direction on reserved seats
On 28 October, Dawn reported that the Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq conveyed the government’s intention of not complying with the Supreme Court’s order on reserved seats. He argued that it was the duty of the Election Commission of Pakistan(ECP) and not the Supreme Court to pass a ruling like this. The Supreme Court in its July verdict had directed the Government to allot PTI’s share of reserved seats for women and non-muslims in both the assemblies. He also pointed to the fact that PTI-backed independent candidates had joined the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), thereby crossing the floor. He further argued that post the passing of 26th Amendment, the Supreme Court has no right to impose verdicts on a case like this. In addition to that, on the issue of petition against the passing of the 26th Constitutional amendment, he confirmed that the Supreme Court has no right to invalidate it. (“Will not follow court order on reserved seats: NA speaker,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
ECONOMY
Petrol and diesel prices to drop as international market prices fall
On 28 October, Dawn reported that the current prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) are set to drop from 1 November as the average prices of both fuels have fallen by USD 1.5 and USD 2.5 per barrel, respectively in the international market. Hence, the prices of petrol and HSD are projected to fall by PKR 3 and PKR 2.30 per litre, considering the recent exchange rate calculation and the current tax rates. However, the import premium of petrol and diesel in the present fortnight stands at USD 8.7 and USD 5 per barrel, respectively. On 15 October, the government had raised the price of diesel by PKR 5 per litre, marking the first price increase in the last three months while the petrol prices had remained unaltered at PKR 247.03. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Petrol, diesel prices likely to drop by up to Rs3 per litre ,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
PIC determined to release names of 1000 big defaulters
On 28 October, The News International reported that the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) has put forward its “46 para-wise” remarks in reply to Sindh High Court’s stay order against the former’s decision to reveal the names of 1000 major defaulters. PIC has argued that its decision was in compliance with the requisites of law and justice and therefore should be followed accordingly. State Bank has put forward its arguments against the committee’s decision stressing that PIC’s decision should have been made by three members instead of two. PIC had, however, contested State Bank’s objection citing “sub-section 3 of rule 9 of the Right to Access to Information Rules 2019” that allows the former to pass a decision formulated by two members. Further, PIC stressed that revealing the names of the defaulters would not transgress anyone’s right and that not disclosing it would be against the interest of the country that might lead to grave consequences in the future. (Asif Mehmood Butt, “PIC submits reply to SHC stay order against exposing 1000 big defaulters,” The News International, 28 October 2024)
Pakistan to receive USD 2.75 billion from ADB over the next four years
On 28 October, The News International reported that the International Monetary Fund’s commitment of USD 7 billion loan has facilitated Pakistan’s ease to borrow from other international institutions. It is expected that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) would provide Pakistan a total of USD 2.75 billion in the next four years for budget support to the country with the first USD 800 million set to possibly arrive in the current fiscal. From 2025-26 fiscal year, Pakistan is likely to receive USD 650 million from ADB. (Rana Ghulam Qadir, “ADB to provide $2.75 bn budget support in four years,” The News International, 28 October 2024)
Finance Minister terms no trade with neighbors “illogical,” comments on state of the economy
On 28 October, Dawn reported that at a presser, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb expressed that he finds not trading with neighbors “illogical.” He also communicated Pakistan’s willingness to join the BRICS grouping for increasing trade. He had recently attended the “annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank” and claimed that the government's efforts in minimizing inflation have been appreciated and that the country’s foreign reserves have reached USD 11 billion. He conveyed the interest of US companies in investing in Pakistan the World Bank’s agreement to provide a grant for “capacity-building” initiatives and the likeliness of the country signing a ten-year partnership with it focusing on tackling such as climate change, education for out-of-school and stunted children. He also highlighted Pakistan’s exponentially increasing population as one of the major impediment to economic development. He also expressed the country’s commitment to refrain from taking loans in the future from the IMF and its intention to become an economy of exports instead of imports. Further, he warned tax evaders of a stringent penalty. On the issue of privatization, he reported that the government is working on the Pakistan International Airlines and Islamabad Airport and in the future, it would focus on privatizing Lahore and Karachi airports. (Anwar Iqbal, “No trade with neighbours ‘illogical’: Aurangzeb,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
“New schemes added under PSDP every year because of political reasons result in cost and time overruns” argues an editorial in Dawn
An editorial in Dawn titled “PSDP spending” discussed the dire need of reforms in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) sector. The editorial informed that the government has established a committee to oversee the “selection of schemes” based on economic feasibility that would come under the PSDP portfolio. The committee would also give suggestions on accomplishment of schemes within a given timeline. This measure from Government comes amid the requirement of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to make structural adjustments. The editorial highlighted that the inclusion of new schemes every year owing to political benefits has led to a reduction in the funds allotted for many projects, thus leading in delays and overwhelming increase in cost. It cited an IMF report which had revealed that the country would need PKR 10.7 trillion to finish the schemes that would go on for decades. The editorial called for measures which should be taken by provincial government to effectively use their development funds. (“PSDP spending,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
HEALTH
Third polio vaccination campaign to start from 28 October
On 28 October, Dawn reported that amid the beginning of nationwide polio vaccination drive, poliovirus has been found in environment samples that had been taken from 16 districts which includes Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi among many others. The objective of the vaccination campaign is to reach 45 million children who are below the age of five so as to contain a revival of wild polio virus. One of key persons working on polio elimination under PM Shehbaz Sharif , Ayesha Raza Farooq, has conveyed that the state is committed towards complete vaccine coverage. The National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication coordinator, Anwarul Haq, had requested all the parents to coordinate with the polio workers citing that polio has no cure but could be thwarted through vaccine. Inamul Haq who is the coordinator of Balochistan’s Emergency Operation Centre has vowed to ensure full proof security for the vaccination campaign and had asked parents to contact the administration if their child is not vaccinated. (Ikram Junaidi, “Poliovirus detected in 16 districts on eve of vaccine drive,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
SECURITY
Four terrorists neutralized in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On 27 October, according to the Inter-Services Public Relatons (ISPR) statement, security personnel neutralized four alleged terrorists in separate operations launched in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The operation was conducted in North Waziristan District and where an “intense exchange of fire” led to the termination of two khawarij or Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants. A separate operation conducted by the law enforcement personnel in Khyber district led to the elimination of two khwarij and injury to three.
Separately, on 26 September, eight people were killed in a suicide bomb blast, while others sustained injury. Among the eight were two security officials and four policemen. The attack took place at a joint police and security checkpoint in Eidak, North Waziristan. The bomb detonated while they were inspecting vehicles, after a suicide bomber in a rickshaw blew himself up. (“Four terrorists killed in separate Khyber Pakhtunkhwa operations: ISPR,” Dawn, 27 October 2024)
“It is clear Pakistan is in dire need of major and genuine institutional reform,” suggests an editorial in Dawn
On 28 October, an editorial titled “State of chaos,” in Dawn discussed the current state of instability and need for institutional reform in Pakistan while referring to the various indices such as the Law Enforcement Index, Corruption index, ‘Fundamental Rights’, ‘Open Government’ and so forth. An index represents the particular value of something. With respect to Pakistan, the country ranks low on the on all the indices mentioned above, thereby representing the “serious gaps” particularly in the areas of “law enforcement” and “public safety.” The editorial observed that despite institutions such as the National Accountability Bureau and the Federal Investigative Agency being in place, they consistently act in a manner which benefits particular political parties or groups. The editorial calld for these agencies to be allowed to function in an autonomous manner where all public officials are held accountable. Steps such as the Right to Information act may have been introduced, however, they will have to be enforced in a manner which “empowers citizens” and increases trust. The country also ranks 127th in ‘Weak Regulatory Enforcement,’ which in turn depicts inconsistencies in primary regulations where the private parties are not held accountable. The editorial also called for the strengthening of regulatory bodies, “ensuring they are free from political - and ‘apolitical’” influence. (“State of chaos,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
“A concerted effort is needed to rid the country” of the menace of terrorism, argues an editorial in Dawn
On 28 October, an editorial titled “Wave of violence” in Dawn discussed the growing disenchantment with the state referring to newer waves of violence in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). KP has emerged as the hotspot for terror violence. The editorial cited various incidents that took place in the last few days, where eight security personnel were “martyred” in a suicide bomb blast in North Waziristan. Another one took place in DI Khan district where a checkpoint was attacked and ten Frontier Constabularies were killed in the name of ‘revenge’ by the Tehreek-e-Taliban- Pakistan for the earlier killing of its nine militants. Given this context, the editorial urged the law enforcement personnel to seek assistance from the civilians residing in these conflict-prone regions, for they “may be willing to aid the effort as they are weary of the constant violence.” The editorial suggested the establishment of a counterterrorism division to annihilate asymmetric warfare. The editorial also noted the growing discontent among the policemen as they too, have taken to the streets to protest the growing militancy within the district. In its conclusion, the editorial observed how if such violence is "left unchecked," it "will further erode people’s confidence in the state and its ability to maintain peace and provide security to its citizens.” (“Wave of violence,” Dawn, 28 October 2024)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan sends out its 15th and 16th humanitarian consignment to Lebanon and Gaza
On 27 October, according to a report in The Express Tribune, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) sent its 15th and 16th consignments to the people of Gaza and Lebanon. About 200 tons of winter supplies have departed from Islamabad for Beirut and Amman. The shipments consisted of essential winter supplies, like tents and blankets. Responding to the country’s relief efforts, the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Zuhair MH Darzaid said: “The generosity and compassion demonstrated by Pakistan serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to our shared commitment to peace and justice.” Separately, in his statements, Lebanese Ambassador, Ghassan Khatib highlighted the importance of humanitarian assistance provided to those affected by the conflict. (“Pakistan dispatches 200 tons of aid to conflict zones in Gaza, Lebanon,” The Express Tribune, 27 October 2024)
INDIA VIEW
President Zardari and PM Sharif express their commitment towards Kashmiris on ‘Black Day’
On 27 October, on the observance of “Kashmir Black Day,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari issued statements, calling upon the international community to address the longstanding Kashmir issue. In his message, President Zardari emphasized the need for the Kashmiris to obtain “their right to self-determination.” In his opinion, 27 October 1947 was the day when India occupied Jammu and Kashmir, thereby marking a tragic point in South Asia’s history. Drawing parallels with the current state of affairs in the Middle East, President Zardari emphasized how important it is to not let long-lived conflicts from prevailing. He said: “Three generations of Kashmiris have waited for the world, especially the United Nations, to deliver them their right to self-determination. The world can no longer ignore its responsibility.” In his message, Prime Minister Sharif paid his “heartfelt” tribute to the sacrifices borne by the Kashmiri people in their “continued struggle for the right to self-determination.” He opined how countless political prisoners still remain within the region and how the Indian forces are not held accountable under the country’s counter-terror policies. He recalled his address at the recent United Nations General Assembly meeting where he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment towards a resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, as per the United Nations Security Council’s protocol.
On the same day, while addressing a crowd in Lahore, the founder of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Hafiz Naeem ur-Rehman opined that Kashmir cannot be liberated with mere slogans and advertisement, but through jihad. He said: “Rights cannot be granted to Kashmiris through phone messages; Kashmir will only be freed through jihad. If dialogue were the solution, the issue would have been resolved long ago.” He urged the state institutions, particularly the government and the military to adopt a clear stance on Kasmir. He also condemned the global community for supporting the Indian state and voiced opposition against those announcing their amity with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. He questioned: “Why speak of strengthening ties with India without Kashmiri freedom? Why not focus on fostering relations with Afghanistan instead?” (“President, PM assure Kashmiris of 'unwavering' support,” The Express Tribune, 27 October 2024; “Kashmir will be liberated through jihad, not slogans and advertisements: Hafiz Naeem,” The Express Tribune, 27 October 2024)
“Their plight is not just a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan but a humanitarian crisis that should concern the entire world,” suggests an editorial in The Nation
On 28 October, an editorial titled “Upholding Kashmir,” shed light upon the Kashmir dispute on the occasion of ‘Black Day’ observed by Pakistan. The editorial discussed the global community’s role in the issue. Pakistan believes that India illegally occupied the Jammu & Kashmir region on 27 October 1947, an aftermath of the partition which left the disputed region in a “limbo.” The editorial affirmed Pakistan’s commitment towards Kashmiris and their prolonged “struggle” for “self-determination.” While the United Nations has suggested a plebiscite to be held, it still has not been implemented, thereby forcing Kashmiris to live “under an oppressive regime.” The editorial argued that this situation is further exacerbated by the international community’s reluctance to intercede. The editorial emphasized the importance of the international community’s intervention and solidarity with the region’s civilians and their failure to respond is a failure on the part of the community. The prolonged dispute allows the loss of innumerable lives and the non-attainment of rights and freedom. Hence, it is “high time” for not only Pakistan but also foreign states to “uphold the principles of human rights and dignity,” concluded the editorial. (“Upholding Kashmir,” The Nation, 27 October 2024)
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After meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and then talking to the media at the Polo Club, Chairman Pakistan People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that the way to send the Prime Minister home has stopped after the 26th constitutional amendment.
- PPP
None other than PTI's own "Sher Afzal Marwat" is admitting that all the planning and sabotage of May 9 tragedy was done by TI.
- PMLN Digital
One is stealing from the chest from above; Despite the clear order of the Supreme Court, the puppet government and the Election Commission are continuously insulting the court by not giving specific seats to Tehreek-e-Insaf. This is an insult not only to the Constitution of Pakistan but also to millions of voters.
We appeal to the Chief Justice of Pakistan to immediately take steps to implement the orders of the Supreme Court.
- PTI
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"Pakistan’s history shows no government ever secured itself by such manoeuvres as the 26th Amendment."
- An opinion in Dawn, ‘Illusion of power’
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