PAKISTAN READER

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Election Commission challenges suspension of PTI intra-party polls decision

In Brief
PAKISTAN ELECTIONS 2024
PR Exclusive Update #38
Election Commission challenges suspension of PTI intra-party polls decision
On 2 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) filed a review application before the Peshawar High Court challenging the suspension of its decision regarding the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s (PTI) intra-party polls and the revocation of its election symbol ‘bat’. ECP lawyers argued that the single-judge bench exceeded its jurisdiction by issuing an interim order without hearing the commission. The bench issued notices to the petitioners, including PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, for the next hearing. Khan emphasised: “There is no plan to boycott the elections, had we planned to do so we would have already boycotted.” This statement was made while Khan criticised the ECP’s decision on PTI’s election symbol.(Waseem Ahmad Shah, “Court overstepped jurisdiction in ‘bat’ case: ECP lawyer,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
PTIP will not change seats in the 2024 general elections, says Khattak
On 2 January, the Chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarians (PTIP), Pervez Khattak, declared that he is a believer in the might of the people and that he will not be changing seats with political parties in the general election of 2024. During a press conference, he further asserted that his party is prepared for the general elections. Khattak claimed to have accomplished a record amount of development projects during his tenure in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), declaring that that his party will run candidates in each of the KP constituencies. Subsequently, PPP Bhutto Shaheed Group and PTIP declared an electoral alliance. (“Khattak rules out seat adjustment,” The Express Tribune, 3 January 2024)
 
Opinion piece in Dawn paints a bleak picture for Pakistan in 2024
On 3 January, Zahid Hussain in an opinion piece in Dawn titled, ‘The game is on’, expressed that Pakistan has not had an “auspicious start to the new year,” as “allegations of persecution of dissenting voices” have left little hope for the elections. Hussain made a strong statement by saying that the “entire electoral process is tainted,” substantiating this with instances of the “mass rejection” of PTI nomination papers and the “shameful spectacle of Shah Mahmood Qureshi.” The “alleged brutality” that has been inflicted on the political opposition has increased political volatility. Although questions have been raised about the “impartiality of the Election Commission of Pakistan,” according to Hussain, it is clear who is calling the shots- the PML-N. The lack of “induction of fresh blood,” the suppression of the opposition, and the fact that mainstream parties have not yet reached out to the public means there is “no hope of change.” These developments are all taking place against the backdrop of “rising incidents of terrorism,” economic instability, and climate change. Hussain concluded by stating that without free and fair elections, the country will be pushed “further into the abyss.”(Zahid Hussain, ‘The game is on’ Dawn, 3 January 2024)

JUDICIARY
Quaid-i-Azam would not have been allowed to run for office, says CJP
On 2 January, while presiding over a case concerning the length of time public office holders are disqualified under Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), Qazi Faez Isa, observed that Quaid-i-Azam would not have been allowed to run for office in 2002 if he had not completed his education. Isa stated:“This is a constitutional issue, which we are going to settle once and for all, and we will try to conclude it quickly to prevent confusion for the returning officers (ROs) while receiving nomination papers for the upcoming elections.”He warned against presuming that a certain party was receiving preferential treatment, making it clear that the constitutional question of parliamentarians’ lifetime disqualification would be resolved once and for all. (Rana Masood Hussain and Sohail Khan, “Lifetime bar on parliamentarians: Quaid-e-Azam too would have been disqualified in 2002: CJP,” The News International, 3 January 2024, Nasir Iqbal, “Constitutional‘contradiction’ puzzles CJP,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
CJP hopes to achieve a “once and for all” solution for enforced disappearances
On 2 January, the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, labelled the problem of enforced disappearances as “serious,” maintaining that it could be solved “once and for all” only when everyone takes responsibility. He stated that “this country belongs to all of us,” saying that it should be made “strong from within.”These statements were made during a case put forth by Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, where he showcased how the continuity of enforced disappearances has haunted generations. Ahsan was advised by the Supreme Court against using the judiciary for political gains, while the CJP pointed out that several individuals who were mentioned in the petition had enough influence to approach the court themselves. Ahsan’s counsel, who urged the court to recognize enforced disappearances as constitutional violence, was asked to present concise points on potential legal actions regarding the problem. (“CJP seeks ‘once and for all’ solution to enforced disappearances,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
PROVINCES
Balochistan: Government suspends 44 government employees in Turbat and Kohlu 
On 3 January, Dawn reported that the Balochistan government suspended 44 government employees from Turbat and Kohlu, on the grounds of alleged participation in a protest sit-in and rally against the alleged killing of Balaach Mola Bakhsh. The decision was taken during a meeting of the district intelligence coordination committee. An official notification issued by the commissioner of Makran division confirmed that 30 employees from scale 1 to 15 were suspended and disciplinary actions were initiated for those officials above scale 16. Additionally, 14 government employees in the Kohlu were suspended for participating in the sit-in and supporting the long march last month. The notification added that these steps were taken under the Baluchistan Employees Efficiency and Discipline Act, 2011. (Behram Baloch, “Govt suspends 44 employees for backing Turbat sit-in,” Dawn, 03 January 2024) 
 
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Six barbers shot dead in Waziristan 
On 2 January, local and official sources stated that six barbers were allegedly kidnapped and shot dead, after which their bodies were dumped in a field in Mir Ali tehsil in the tribal district of North Waziristan. The sources added those six barbers were non-locals. The police launched an investigation into the matter, but could not find any motive for the murders. The law-and-order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is deteriorating with an increase in the number of terrorist attacks, ahead of the general elections. (“Bullet-riddled bodies of six barbers found in Waziristan,” The News International, 3 January 2024) 
 
Balochistan: Caretaker prime minister’s remarks on Baloch protest 
On 3 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “Conduct unbecoming” outlined how caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s remarks on the ongoing Baloch protests in Islamabad “undermined the very essence of the struggle faced by the people of his province.” The sit-in protests that have been going on for over a week, centre around extra-judicial killings and rights violations in Balochistan. The editorial said that by telling protesters to “join the militants,” he risks “alienating an entire populace” that is combating “marginalisation.” It described attempts to portray protestors who are “peacefully” demanding justice as sympathisers of militants, automatically “endangers” activists, journalists, and human rights defenders. Kakar also criticized the media for “misleading” the public, which is an indication of “intolerance towards dissent.” Political leaders should change their stance and become more “empathetic, understanding, and constructive” when approaching long-standing issues. (“Conduct unbecoming,” Dawn, 3 January 2024) 
 
SECURITY
Interior Ministry expresses concern over the rise of terrorist activities in KP
On 2 January, the Ministry of Interior described the influx of TTP members and the “recruitment, training, and placing of suicide bombers” in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a “cause of concern.”As per the ministry, the TTP’s reorganization and operational expansion significantly increased after the US withdrew from Afghanistan. Further, the ministry added that the “significant rise” in activities and the attempts to get the “support of other militant groups” are ways of the TTP activating its “network” in Pakistan. The ministry added that the self-proclaimed Islamic State militant group, Daesh, was also trying to establish a foothold in Pakistan, by targeting Shias and religious minority communities. (Iftikhar A. Khan, “TTP influx continues in merged districts, Senate told,” Dawn, 3 January 2024) 
 
COAS attends the Induction and Operationalization Ceremony 
On 2 January, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir attended an Induction and Operationalization event at a Pakistan Operational base as its chief guest. The event showcased the new weapons of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) that will be used to maintain regional power balance. The COAS appreciated the efforts taken by the PAF for incorporating state of the art technologies and weapon systems, which would help prepare Pakistan to combat any aggression. (Muhammad Anis, “COAS all praise for PAF readiness,” The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and the US discuss bilateral issues during diplomatic meeting
On 2 January, during a meeting with the US Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, the caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, stressed the need to capitalize on the recent positive momentum in relations between Pakistan and the US. As per the Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan, “major aspects of bilateral relations,” including the recent visit of Chief General Asim Munir to the US, were discussed. The US Embassy added that concerns surrounding increased diplomatic involvement and the resettlement of Afghan citizens in the US were put forth; however, specifics remained unknown. In 2023, diplomatic engagements on commerce, energy, education, and defence have characterised bilateral relations, despite occasional strains in relations. (“Pakistan, US discuss ‘crucial bilateral issues‘,”Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
US-Pakistan climate discussions promote collaboration
On 2 January, the US embassy in Islamabad stated that a delegation of US water security experts recently visited Islamabad, where they met senior officials of the various ministries, commissions, and academic and private officials. Their visit came ahead of the third high-level meeting between Pakistan and the US in Washington, set to be held in April 2024 by the Climate and Environment Working Group (CEWG). The CEWG is a major bilateral project that aims to protect the environment and enhance Pakistani lives by strengthening cooperation in the areas of water, agriculture, and clean energy. The delegation engaged in discussions on partnerships to address water security and clean water issues, flood risk management, and climate-smart agriculture. (Amin Ahmed, “Pakistan-US climate talks enhance cooperation,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s December exports soar to 18-month high, imports decline
On 2 January, the caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ejaz posted on X that Pakistan’s exports have soared, stating that the “remarkable growth” reflects the caretaker government’s “commitment to boosting Pakistan’s economic engine.”Pakistan’s product exports reached a historic 18-month high of USD 2.82 billion in December 2023, up 22.21 per cent from the previous year. For the fourth month in a row, export growth pointed towards a resurgence of export-driven industrial growth. The first half of FY24 saw a 5.17 per cent increase in exports, reaching USD 14.98 billion. Plans to increase export-led development to USD eight billion monthly under the Special Investment Facilitation Council framework were disclosed by Ejaz. Ejaz added that the commerce ministry was working towards creating sustainable economic growth, promising that they would “soon achieve” their “capacity and then proceed to the next step.”(Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Exports jump 22pc in December,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
Modest one per cent growth in local sales amid concerns, exports surge
On 3 January, Dawn reported that local cement sales in Pakistan witnessed a modest year-on-year growth of one per cent, reaching 20.223 million tonnes during July-December of FY24. Meanwhile, cement exports soared by 111 per cent, totalling 3.653 million tonnes, up from 1.734 million tonnes in the same period the previous year. The cumulative cement dispatches, combining domestic and export figures, grew by 9.7 per cent, reaching 23.876 million tonnes in 1HFY24. Despite the overall growth, concerns were raised over the negative growth in domestic sales in December. The industry is hoping for increased government focus on Public Sector Development Projects to boost cement demand. (“Half-yearly cement sales raise 10pc,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
Pakistan struggles with increasing inflation
On 3 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “Rising inflation” revealed that according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), monthly inflation increased to 29.7 per cent from 24.5 per cent a year ago, underscoring Pakistan’s growing inflation. Fuel charges in electricity tariffs and an increase in necessities for the kitchen were blamed for the hike. The PBS cited the “high base effect,” declining demand, and loosening supply limitations as reasons for a predicted slowdown in the second half of the fiscal year. Estimates, however, range from 21 per cent to nearly 26 per cent, including concerns such as rising global commodity prices and currency depreciation. Living expenses have been greatly impacted by the ongoing high rate of inflation, especially for low- and middle-class households. As per the editorial, “More people are more food insecure today than they were three years ago, not just because of shortages but also owing to the erosion of purchasing power.”With elections coming up, political parties have not yet disclosed their strategies to deal with the problem. (“Rising inflation,” Dawn, 3 January 2024)
 
State Bank governor’s report points to cautious optimism for Pakistan’s economic future
On 2 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “SBP’s projections” reported that the State Bank Governors Annual Report for FY2023 is “cautiously optimistic” about Pakistan’s economy. It expects headline inflation to decline, the current account deficit to close, and GDP growth of two to three per cent provided that geopolitical unrest, natural disasters, and unfavourable changes in global commodity prices are avoided. The report noted that “the economic landscape of Pakistan has faced unprecedented challenges throughout the fiscal year.” Although the “SBP’s commitment to maintain price stability” was emphasized, questions were raised about previous projections and the SBP’s ability in terms of “taming inflation and checking the dollar’s flight.”The upcoming administration will, as per the editorial, face the “crucial challenge” of negotiating a “bigger, medium-term IMF loan.” 2024 has been described as a year that will be a “defining one for Pakistan’s future trajectory,” as the country is at a “crucial juncture” from where it can either lead a “prosperous future” or have a “total collapse.” (“SBP’s projections,” Dawn, 2 January 2024)
 
Ishaq Dar’s potential return raises concerns for Pakistan’s economy
On 3 January, Farhan Bokhari wrote an analysis in The News International, titled “To Dar or not,” where he wrote about the prospect of a future PML-N government paving the way for the return of Ishaq Dar, the former finance minister under the PML-N government. The “baffling choice” would raise doubts about the prudence of depending on a leader who “left behind a much-blemished legacy,” characterised by disagreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and unkempt “promise of overseeing a surge in the exchange rate of the rupee.”However, Bokhari pointed out that the larger problem is that “Pakistan’s main political parties are either far from functional” or just don’t “care enough.” Pakistan is confronted with issues of debt, political unrest, and a widening wealth disparity. Bokhari focused on the necessity of significant tax cuts and the revival of important industries for financial stability. He also raises two important questions- whether the new representatives will turn the economy around, and whether the focus will shift towards reviving a “flat economy.”(“To Dar or not,” The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
Farmers body appeals to government amid ongoing urea shortage
On 2 January, amid an ongoing urea shortage, the farmers’ body Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) appealed to the government to address the gap of 600,000 tonnes in urea manufacturing, while maintaining a uniform nationwide price. The President of PKI, Khalid Mahmood Khokhar, explained that “the annual urea demand is estimated at 7 million tonnes, while the domestic industry can only produce 6.4 million tonnes.” However, low domestic production and delayed imports have caused the shortage. Khokhar also highlighted how middlemen charge PKR 1000 per bag above maximum retail prices, resulting in “black money of over PKR 120 billion annually from farmers.”He urged the government to “enforce uniform urea pricing nationwide” at “not more than PKR 3000 per bag to make farming viable.”The price exploitation, according to Khokhar, has made it difficult for small farmers, who could face difficulties in cultivating “their entire piece of land.”Urea, which accounts for “18 per cent” to Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is a “key fertilizer” in the agriculture sector, which is responsible for “38 per cent of the labour force.”(“Farmers’ body urges government to address urea shortage, price hike,”The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
Caretaker government to consider cutting electricity tariff for industries
On 2 January, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Energy Power and Petroleum, Muhammad Ali, said that the caretaker government was aiming to cut electricity tariff for industries. Ali stated that the government is planning to provide a “roadmap for the reduction in capacity payments and urea prices,” as the economy is facing problems including an unstable export industry, circular debt, and high urea prices. According to Ali, cutting the tariff is essential because the “industrial sector is subsidising households,” and unless industries continue operating, “there will not be jobs and exports.” (Saif Ur Rehman, “Govt mulls slashing power tariff for industries,” The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
SOCIETY
Analysis of an editorial on the state of women in Pakistan
On 3 January, The News International published an editorial titled “Failing our women,” in which it explained the reasons behind Pakistan’s rank of 142 out of 146 in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023. The editorial cited the Karachi police surgeon, according to whom “more than 500 women and underage girls were sexually assaulted in the metropolitan city in 2023 while there were 4,042 cases of physical assault on them.”Additionally, an NGO in Islamabad, Sahil, said that “an average of 12 children per day were subjected to sexual abuse in Pakistan,” with 2,227 reported cases from January to June 2023. These “shocking” statistics inevitably lead to a low global ranking in terms of “gender parity and women empowerment.”The editorial placed blame on “every political party” and the “ruling elite” of Pakistan for being “suspiciously silent” on these matters, and accused them of using the issue as a “convenient talking point” during political campaigns. Incidents such as honour killings, acid attacks, and unjustified arrests have increased in number. The editorial emphasised “promoting a culture of equality and consent” while addressing the underlying factors that “perpetuate gender-based violence,” as a way of creating a society safe for women and girls, where they have equality and there is no patriarchy or violence. (“Failing our women,” The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
RIP: Sartaj Aziz
On 2 January, the former Minister of Finance of Pakistan and senior PML-N leader, Sartaj Aziz, passed away at the age of 95. Aziz was an active member in the 1946 electoral campaign of All India Muslim League and held many key positions, including the joint secretary of the Planning Commission and the Minister of Finance. He played a major role in the finance and economic sectors, in the form of economic and water policies, agricultural strategies, and Federally Administered Tribal Area reforms. Senior government officials, including the president, caretaker prime minister, and the foreign minister, expressed their condolences. The former Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, described Aziz as “a close and trusted companion to Nawaz Sharif,” who remained “dedicated to the party, leadership, and ideology throughout his life.”(“Sartaj Aziz is no more,” Dawn, 3 January 2024; “Ex-finance minister Sartaj Aziz passes away,” The News International, 3 January 2024)
 
PAKISTAN’S INDIA VIEW
An ode to the King of Bollywood
On 2 January, Sajeer Shaikh published an article in The Express Tribune titled “Shah Rukh Khan: The love language of South Asia,” in which he wrote about the legacy of the “King of Bollywood.” Taking the example of Khan’s latest movie “Dunki,” Shaikh wrote how Khan proved that “the world will always be his to conquer.” This was proven earlier as well when he made his mark in cinema houses after OTT “threatened to overstay its welcome” after the COVID-19 pandemic. In the article, Shaikh referred to the similar views of the co-founder and Chief of the Indian media organisation Yuvaa, Nikhil Taneja, who claims that the 30-year-old era of Khan continues till today, stated that he “singlehandedly drove people to theatres” after COVID, and thus “saved Bollywood.” Shaikh also took points from entertainment journalist Shaheera Anwar, who described Bollywood as “inseparable from SRK” and “incomplete without his enduring presence.” Anwar additionally spoke on the “massive revenue he generated for the Hindi belt,” drawing comparisons between his “fictional resurrections” and the “literal resurrection of Hindi cinema.”Taneja further touched upon Khan’s portrayal of male characters that lacked the conventional “alpha, masculine” personalities, which have made him one of the few “men in cinema who all genders appreciate,” and have immortalised his legacy. (Sajeer Shaikh, “Shah Rukh Khan: The love language of South Asia,” The Express Tribune, 2 January 2024)

“Sartaj aziz sb’s passing away is not just a personal loss but a loss for the nation. He was an extraordinary person who wore many hats - a long standing colleage, trusted adviser to Nawaz Sharif and an exemplary civil servant with immeasurable services to Pakistan’s economic and diplomatic landscape. His legacy is a lesson for others to follow.” - Shehbaz Sharif “In a bizarre development, authorities in Pakistan have rejected nomination papers of 700 candidates belonging to largest political party PTI. This is being done to favour one Nawaz Sharif who is favourite of the regime but unpopular amongst the people.” - Hammad Azhar “Strongly denounce the assault on Jamshed Dasti’s family. The attack on Mr. Dasti’s wife is an affront to all wives, sisters, and daughters in Pakistan.” - Sher Afzal Khan Marwat

“It is clear that the electoral contest is not rooted in any programme or ideology.” - An opinion in Dawn, ‘‘The game is on’