PAKISTAN READER

Photo : The Express Tribune

PTI candidates appeal against rejection of nomination papers

In Brief
PAKISTAN ELECTIONS 2024
PR Exclusive Update #37
PTI candidates appeal against rejection of nomination papers
On 1 January, dozens of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidates filed complaints with the election tribunals, challenging the rejection of their nomination papers by the returning officers (ROs) during the inspection. The head of Pakistan Awami Mahaz (PAM), Ishtiaq Chaudhry, filed an appeal in Lahore, contesting the approval of Nawaz Sharif’s nomination documents. Chaudhry contended that Sharif was not qualified to run in the elections because the Supreme Court had declared him ineligible for life. Subsequently, a group of PTI candidates from different districts in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa initiated legal challenges against the rejection of their nomination papers. These developments are an important part of the electoral process. A spokesperson for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) confirmed that multiple PTI candidates have filed appeals with the tribunals. (Dozens of PTI aspirants appeal against papers rejection, The Express Tribune, 2 January 2024)
 
Returning officers turn down 12.5 per cent of nomination papers
On 2 January, Dawn reported that Returning Officers (ROs) rejected around 12.5 per cent of the nomination papers filed by candidates from all parts of the country for the national and provincial assemblies. According to the data provided by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), about one-eighth of the documents were rejected. 25,951 papers were submitted for the 859 general seats in the national and provincial assemblies; 3,240 of those were turned down by the ROs. About 45 per cent of rejection was seen in the capital, where only 93 nominations were accepted and 209 were rejected. Among the provinces, Balochistan faced the highest number of rejections of nomination papers with 14.58 per cent. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “Over 3,200 candidates fail to make the cut,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)
 
Supreme Court set to inspect PTI’s petition against ECP
On 2 January, Dawn reported that the PTI’s request to file charges of contempt against the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for breaking its 22 December 2023 directions will be heard by the Supreme Court on 3 January 2024. The three-judge bench will be led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, with Justices Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Musarrat Hilali serving as its other members. On 22 December 2023 the Supreme Court gave the ECP instructions to promptly consider the party’s complaints and find a quick solution to maintain the integrity of the free, fair, transparent, and easy electoral process. PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan filed the petition through Advocate Shoaib Shaheen. This petition requested that the respondents be found in contempt for their failure to abide by the 22 December decisions of the Supreme Court. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC to take up PTI’s petition against ECP tomorrow,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)

Delay in elections will not be a problem, says JUI-F chief
On 1 January, the head of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl party Maulana Fazlur Rehman, emphasised the importance of creating a calm atmosphere for the country’s general elections. Speaking at a press conference, he stated that postponing the polls for a few days would not be a major problem in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. According to him, these two provinces were the most severely hit in terms of law and order in the nation. Additionally, Rehman said that firing on his envoy showed that running election campaigns in the prevalent atmosphere was not safe. He thereby called on the Election Commission of Pakistan to pay heed to his party’s appeal for ensuring a peaceful environment before holding polls. (Muhammad Irfan Mughal, “Delay in elections not big issue: Fazl,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)

ECP urges media regulator to curb poll surveys
On 1 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) wrote to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), requesting it to stop the news channels from airing poll surveys. The ECP argued that such surveys, prohibited under the ECP Code of Conduct, can influence voters’ free choice. The letter urged Pemra to take swift action against channels violating the Code of Conduct and provide a compliance report to the Commission. The Code highlights refraining from conducting poll surveys at polling stations or constituencies to avoid influencing voters and disrupting the election process. (Kalbe Ali, “ECP asks Pemra to stop TV channels from airing surveys,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)
 
HRCP expresses concern about the systematic dismantling of political parties
On 1 January, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) raised alarm over the potential dismantling of “one party,” leading to uncertainty about the free and fair nature of the upcoming elections. The HRCP said that “all parties,” including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), should “be given a level playing field.” Faced with the rejection of important members’ nomination papers and the potential loss of its symbol, the PTI raised concerns about suspected involvement by “state machinery.” The HRCP added that while it does not “condone violence in any form perpetuated by anyone, the state’s response has been disproportionate and unlawful.” (“HRCP says 'one party' being dismantled, prompting concerns on election’s credibility,” The News International, 1 January 2024)
 
POLITICS
Caretaker PM warns against backing militants amid Baloch protests
On 1 January, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar criticised elements engaged in negative propaganda against the state following a police crackdown on Baloch families protesting in Islamabad against extra-judicial killings and enforced disappearances. Kakar clarified that the state would not tolerate those backing terrorists under the guise of supporting Baloch protesters. He emphasised the need to distinguish between the legitimate concerns of Baloch families and those supporting militants. Kakar also highlighted the involvement of militias and external factors, such as RAW, in destabilising Balochistan, reaffirming the government’s commitment to fight terrorism and maintain peace. (“Baloch protestors’ issue: PM says state won’t tolerate elements backing terrorists,” The News International, 1 January 2024)
 
PML-N senator warns against weakening political parties, stresses fair elections
On 1 January, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed of the PML-N emphasised the importance of fair elections and warned that the weakening of political parties would “weaken the federation.” He expressed concern about manipulating the 2018 elections and warned that the “process should not be repeated.” Meanwhile, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) lawmakers raised concerns about the law and order situation, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and questioned the feasibility of holding elections in challenging security conditions. (“Mass rejection of PTI leaders’ papers to harm democracy, says PML-N senator,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)
 
Kakar stresses the integrated management system for AATA
On 1 January, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar emphasised the need for an integrated management system for the Afghan Transit Trade Agreement (ATTA). He pledged exemplary punishment for those involved in smuggling and called for intelligence clearance for customs officers on sensitive posts. Kakar directed measures to ensure foolproof tracking of trade under the ATTA, urging the establishment of an integrated transit trade management system. Additionally, he also permitted the import of 200,000 tonnes of fertilizer to meet local needs and directed legal action against hoarding and profiteering. (Syed Irfan Raza, “PM Kakar calls for stringent steps to curb smuggling,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan dispatches third relief consignment to Gaza
On 1 January, Pakistan dispatched its third shipment of relief materials to Gaza to assist Palestinians. The Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Jalil Abbas Jilai, oversaw the dispatch of dry ration, medical supplies, medicine, and hygiene kits aboard a dedicated Pakistan Air Force plane at Nur Khan Airbase in Islamabad. The Red Crescent will receive and distribute the Gaza-bound shipment. Jilani emphasised the need for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian aid while sympathizing with the Palestinian people. The Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan, who was also present, thanked Pakistan for its ongoing assistance. (“Pakistan sends third consignment of 20-tonne relief goods to Gaza,” The News International, 2 January 2024)
 
Nuclear installations and prisoner lists exchanged between Pakistan and India
On 1 January, Pakistan and India exchanged prisoner lists per the 2008 Consular Access Agreement. India shared a list of 418 captives from Pakistan, including civilians and fishermen, while Pakistan supplied a list of 231 Indian inmates. The agreement mandates biannual exchanges on 1 January and 1 July. Following the completion of their sentences, both countries called for the quick release and repatriation of convicts. In addition, the two nations shared lists of nuclear installations following the 1988 ‘Agreement on Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between Pakistan and India’.This yearly event, which began in 1992, improves cooperation and transparency in nuclear problems. (“Islamabad, Delhi exchange lists of prisoners,” The Express Tribune, 2 January 2024)
 
Pakistan condemns India’s ban on Tehreek-i-Hurriyat in Kashmir
On 1 January, the Pakistani Foreign Office (FO) condemned India’s decision to designate the Tehreek-i-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir (TeH) as an “unlawful association” for the last five years, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA. India’s Union Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah, said that group was “involved in forbidden activities to separate Jammu and Kashmir from India and establish Islamic rule.” Shah additionally said they were responsible for spreading “anti-India propaganda” while “continuing terror activities.” This follows the recent classification of the Masarat Alam faction of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir as an “unlawful association.” The FO denounced the actions of India, describe the “banning of political parties” as a part of “India’s relentless campaign to subjugate the Kashmiri people, suppress dissent, and consolidate its occupation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).” Pakistan asked India to abide by UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir and “respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people.” (“Pakistan condemns Indian ban on another political party in held Kashmir,” Dawn, 1 January 2024)
 
ECONOMY
IMF Executive Board to consider first review under Pakistan’s SBA
On 2 January, Business Recorder reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board is set to consider the first review under Pakistan’s stand-by arrangement (SBA) on 11 January. The USD three billion SBA will end in mid-April 2024, and roughly USD 1.8 billion will remain un-disbursed. Earlier, on 15 November, the IMF staff and Pakistani authorities reached a staff-level agreement on the first review under Pakistan’s SBA, which will grant USD 700 million to Pakistan if approved by the Executive Board. (Tahir Amin, “SBA: IMF set for first review on 11^th,” Business Recorder, 2 January 2024)
 
SOCIETY
The role of women in Pakistan’s upcoming elections
On 1 January, Dr Ameena Zia wrote an analysis in The Friday Times titled “Where Do Women Fare In The Political Power Brokering Of 2023?” in which she highlighted
“concerns and complexities” surrounding Pakistan’s upcoming elections. While security issues and youth influence are emerging problems, “women in Pakistan remain significantly underrepresented in policy measures” according to Zia. This underrepresentation, which has persisted despite progress, emphasises the need for “increased efforts to address this imbalance.” The gender gap in registered voters has decreased, but addressing cultural barriers is vital. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is a “critical international framework” that “outlines fundamental rights and freedoms for women globally.”Zia stated that CEDAW, which “explicitly recognizes the importance of women's political participation and representation,” is necessary for upholding the democratic nature of elections in Pakistan. The elections’ outcome will impact political stability and reflect the nation’s commitment to inclusiveness and gender equality. (Dr Ameena Zia, “Where Do Women Fare In The Political Power Of 2023?” The Friday Times, 1 January 2024)

“Police swarming around Peshawar High Court and the Election Tribunals, in aide of Pakistan's version of free and fair elections.’ - Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra “As we usher in the new year, let us look ahead to building a more compassionate Pakistan. One where our subsidies are directed at the poor rather than the elite. One where the state affords its citizens their fundamental rights to free, quality education and healthcare. One where we build infrastructure that empowers the most marginalised instead of exploiting them. Let us look to a future where our country works for all the people, irrespective of caste, creed, or ethnicity. Let this be the year of the people.” - BilawalBhuttoZardari “The tactics being used to keep the candidates out of the election are raising big questions on the transparency of the election and there is a fear of serious damage to the integrity of Pakistan.” - Munawar Hussain Shah

“Pakistan’s prime source of foreign exchange is remittances” - An opinion in The Express Tribune, ‘Growing concerns over economic health’.