PAKISTAN READER

Photo : Dawn

Nawaz Sharif promises “economic overhaul” if elected

In Brief
PAKISTAN ELECTIONS 2024
PR Exclusive Update #52
Nawaz Sharif promises “economic overhaul” if elected
On 22 January, PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif, asked Mansehra residents to vote for his party in order to restructure the economy and return the nation on a road of progress. Speaking at a citywide election event, Mr Sharif described himself as the “champion of development and prosperity.” At the rally held at Thakra Stadium, he stated, “I am glad to stand among you for the first time since 2013, this decade-long separation is nothing less than an agony for me, and for you as well. However, my pleasure is eclipsed by sorrow when I see the enormous challenges this great country is facing on its economic and other important fronts.” The former prime minister highlighted the massive development initiatives his administration had started in Hazara and across the nation, adding that the Hazara motorway had greatly eased commuters’ burdens by enabling them to go to the federal capital in less than two hours. If elected, Nawaz Sharif promised to connect Gilgit-Baltistan with the Hazara Motorway via the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad road. He further stated, “If I came into power no youngster would be unemployed, and poor segments of the society would receive electricity, natural gas, and even vegetables at subsidized rates.” (Nisar Ahmad Khan, “Nawaz seeks votes for economic overhaul”, Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
8 February polls are “mother of all selections” says Imran Khan
On 23 January, Dawn reported that Imran Khan, the former prime minister, stated that the “preferential treatment” given to one political party had turned the forthcoming polls into the “mother of all selections” and questioned the transparency of the elections on 8 February. He also asked his party to go all out in electioneering. He made these comments while speaking with the reporters following the hearing in the cipher case held at Adiala Jail. This conversation stopped abruptly when Khan was asked not to speak to the media in the temporary courtroom by Asad Warraich, the jail superintendent. (Malik Asad, “Imran terms Feb 8 polls ‘mother of all selections” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
  
PTI and PML-N are closely matched in Punjab, says an opinion in Dawn
On 23 January, an opinion piece in Dawn by Dr Niaz Murtaza titled, ‘Winners and losers’ states that according to a recent survey, the PTI and PML-N are closely matched in Punjab. Both the ones from 2013 and 2018 were fairly so. According to Murtaza, instead of using constituency samples, these surveys use national or provincial ones. As a result, they can forecast party vote shares but not seat totals. In his opinion piece Murtaza added that four surveys (Pulse, Gallup, IPOR, and SDPI) averaged within two months of the 2018 elections showed that the PTI, PML-N, and PPP received 28.3 per cent, 27.5 per cent, and 16.5 per cent of the votes, respectively. He added that true percentages were 31.8, 24.4, and 13. That means that, even in the US, their deviation from the actual ratios was less than 4 per cent. Gallup and IRI averages from 2013 indicated that the PML-N, PPP, and PTI received 36 per cent, 15.5 per cent, and 16 per cent of the votes, respectively. These figures were even nearer to the actual ratios of 33 per cent, 15 per cent, and 17 per cent. Therefore, despite the numerous obstacles to conducting reliable surveys in Pakistan, the surveys conducted by these companies cannot be categorically dismissed as biased or unscientific. Murtaza stated, “What can we expect in 2024? Gallup has withheld national results this time. But its recent poll shows the PTI at 34pc and PML-N at 32pc in all-crucial Punjab, ie, close as in 2018 nationally. Given the 2013 and 2018 trends, the PTI may win 40-45pc of seats there.” (Dr Niaz Murtaza, “Winners and losers,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
Punjab will decide between “arrow” and “lion” says PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
On 22 January, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari addressed a public meeting held at the Hockey Stadium in Sahiwal in Punjab.  In his speech, he stated that in the upcoming elections, the fight in Punjab will be between “arrow” and “lion,” the electoral symbols of the PPP and PML-N and will not be based on retaliation, hatred, or further dividing society. This is because on 8 February, people will reject vindictive politics and support the PPP’s progressive manifesto. The PPP chairman is currently concentrating his electioneering efforts in south Punjab and has already done so in Rahim Yar Khan and Muzaffargarh. On 26 January, he is expected to hold a power show in Multan. Zardari stated, “People demand a bright future, one free of vindictiveness and victimization of the past, and this is what his party is offering.” He also claimed that his party would redirect the funds to low-income groups, rather than giving subsidies to the affluent class, as part of his commitment to support the socially alienated. (Shafiq Butt, “Bilawal wants Punjab to bury politics of vindictiveness”, Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
ECP sets dates and timelines for the voting process
On 22 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) set several dates for the voting process, including the transmission of the results, as the general elections approached. All political parties and independent candidates participating in the election were informed by the ECP that their canvassing campaign had to conclude 48 hours before voting day, which falls on midnight between 6 and 7 February. The ECP reminded the candidates that it was illegal for anybody to plan or take part in a meeting, march, corner meeting, or any other political activity after 12 a.m. of 6 February.  It further stated that “Legal action will be taken against those who violate the law.” The ECP directed all returning officers and presiding officers to submit the poll results by 2 a.m. on 8 February. If the results are not finished by then, they could be shared by 10 a.m. the following day. The ECP said in a statement that technology will be fully utilized to ensure “impartiality” and “transparency” in the general elections of 2024. To ensure this, Election Management System (EMS) will be used and data operators and fibre optics facilities will be provided to all ROs. (Amna Ali, “ECP banks on technology to make polls fair,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
POLITICS/MEDIA
IRADA Report highlights deteriorating state-media relations and press freedom
On 23 January, according to Dawn, a report by the Institute for Research Advocacy and Development (IRADA) titled 'Under Siege: Legislative, Judicial and Executive Actions Stifling Freedom of Expression and Right to Information' revealed a decline in the relationship between the state and media in Pakistan over the past two years. According to the executive director of IRADA, Muhammad Aftab Alam, the report shed light on “recent acts impacting freedom of expression, access to information and the digital media landscape.” The report points to instances of censorship, violence against journalists, and government disdain for criticism as contributing factors. It further investigated the impact that judicial decisions had on the freedom of expression, along with multiple content removal requests from the Pakistani government to social media platforms. Concerns over arrests of journalists, content removal requests, and internet shutdowns were also raised in the report. A former senator stated that there is “no legislation in some critical areas” of digital journalism in Pakistan, with other sectors suffering “faulty legislation.” (Ikram Junaidi, “Media freedom declines due to censorship, threats: report,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
Journalists in Pakistan facing a “suffocating environment” argues an editorial in Dawn
On 23 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “Our ‘free’ media” put forth caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar’s statement at Davos, claiming that media in Pakistan is “freer than in the West,” prompts reflection on the state of press freedoms. Despite such assertions, the editorial pointed out that the media in Pakistan has faced coercion and intimidation, leading to self-censorship and compromised editorial independence. Journalists and the media who have chosen not to resort to these steps have “been made to pay a very heavy price.” The recent formation of the Coalition for Free Media signifies a collective effort by journalists and media workers to push back against such pressures. This coalition aims to reclaim the independence that has eroded over the past decade, advocating for press freedoms and resisting undue interference in editorial decision-making. In a “suffocating environment” marked by threats, abductions, and unresolved murders of journalists, the editorial stressed that a united front is essential for safeguarding the public interest and upholding the principles of journalism. The Coalition for Free Media represents a significant and much-needed step towards restoring a free and independent press in Pakistan. (“Our ‘free’ media,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)

Editorial in Dawn stresses the need for a transparent internet system
On 23 January, in an editorial in Dawn titled “Why the PTA must come clean about the ‘upgrade’ causing internet disruptions” by Usama Khilji highlighted how social media applications in Pakistan have faced over six unexplained blocks in the past year, prompting concerns about press freedoms and citizens’ right to information. Despite widespread criticism, caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PTA Director General Ahmed Shamim Pirzada acknowledged the possibility of internet disruptions and social media blocks during the 8 February general elections, citing an ongoing “system upgrade” without providing details. However, the editorial stated that the lack of transparency raises questions about the causes of these disruptions and their impact on democratic processes, constitutional rights, and the economy. It asserted that the PTA and Ministry of IT should be “transparent” regarding the law they were using to suspend internet services, which caused a “huge dent to the already precarious economy of Pakistan.” The editorial also referred to the Asia Internet Coalition, which has expressed concern over investing in Pakistan due to “recent instances of arbitrary throttling.” The need for accountability is crucial to ensure fair elections and uphold citizens' fundamental rights. Additionally, the editorial raised questions on why “technical faults” remain unexplained and arise only when the PTI scheduled online rallies. Thus, the editorial draws a line between “democratic participation and internet access” in the light of elections, stressing that Pakistanis have the right to transparency. (“Why the PTA must come clean about the ‘upgrade’ causing internet disruptions,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
ECONOMY
FBR restructuring a “bad move,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 23 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “FBI reforms” highlighted the caretaker government’s reported plans to restructure the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through a presidential ordinance before the upcoming elections have sparked opposition from within the FBR and major political parties. The interim finance minister reportedly intends to use a presidential ordinance to implement the reforms, and the editorial stated that the minister believes these reforms would increase tax revenue to 15 per cent in a few years. However, the editorial also showed the other side, wherein the FBR bureaucracy is fearful of losing its “infinite privileges.” While there is consensus on the need to reorganize the FBR for enhanced efficiency and fairness, both FBR officials and politicians argue against the interim government executing policies with far-reaching consequences. The editorial asserted that “it would be a bad move” for these reforms to be implemented through an ordinance. Even though there is an “urgency” to restructure the Board, the editorial advised that the task be left for the next government, to ensure legitimacy and effective implementation. (“FBI reforms,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
Pakistan government to auction PKR 100 billion local currency Sukuk
On 23 January, The News International reported that the Pakistan government plans to auction PKR 100 billion worth of local currency Sukuk, or Islamic bonds, on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The auction will include three-year and five-year papers with fixed and variable rates, as well as a one-year Government of Pakistan Ijarah Sukuk with a fixed rate. The move is part of the government's strategy to diversify its debt portfolio and tap into the growing market for Shariah-compliant financing. The last auction in December 2023 for a one-year sovereign Sukuk was oversubscribed by more than 12 times. Meezan Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Bank Alfalah Islamic, and BankIslami Pakistan are the joint advisors for the issuance. (“Govt to sell Rs100 billion of Islamic bonds at PSX,” The News International, 23 January 2024)
 
World Bank grants in-principle approval for USD 425 million for social security initiatives
On 22 January, following a meeting between a World Bank delegation and Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, the Crisis-Resilient Social Protection Programme (CRISP) is set to receive monetary help from the World Bank to address the ongoing social crisis. Akhtar granted an in-principle approval to the World Bank, allowing them to contribute an additional USD 425 million for social security initiatives. The approval includes USD 250 million for CRISP, executed through the Benazir Income Support Programme, to develop a more adaptive social protection system. Additionally, USD 175 million was approved for the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance Programme (RAM) to enhance access to microcredit and provide small loans to the underprivileged. Akhtar proposed a follow-up meeting to finalize the program’s format and emphasized mobilizing local resources for microfinance support. (Irshad Ansari, “World Bank grants $425m to Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 23 January 2024)

Opinion in The News International details PIDE’s ‘reform manifesto’
On 23 January, Dr Nasir Iqbal in an opinion in The News International titled “A manifesto for reform” wrote on how, in response to economic challenges, the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) has unveiled a comprehensive ‘reform manifesto’ aiming to guide the new government towards “holistic” economic transformation. Through an inclusive process, PIDE engaged experts, stakeholders, and academia to develop reforms addressing root issues. The manifesto outlines ten key areas, which Iqbal explained in brief. The first theme is “much-needed political stability,’ which holds that economic progress is slowed by a “fractured political system,” and suggests political reforms. The second is ‘public transformation for the 21^st century,’ which places significant focus on “modernization, digitization,” and service delivery. The third theme is ‘trade and openness: competing globally,’ according to which an “outward looking trade policy” and changes in the external sector would make Pakistan’s products more competitive internationally. Next, ‘social infrastructure’ states that an all-rounded technological revolution would help bridge “geographic barriers,” particularly in the field of education. The fifth theme is ‘cities, engines of growth,’ wherein urban centres should be sustainably developed in a way that allows them to become “engines of economic growth.” The sixth theme, ‘energizing the future,’ focuses on using renewable energy to sustain future generations and as a way to secure “uninterrupted clean and low-cost energy.” Following this, ‘developing markets’ highlight market reforms to bring out Pakistan’s “true potential,” while ‘fiscal management’ highlights budgeting and debt management as a way to create a “sustainable fiscal environment.” The ninth theme, ‘changing the population paradigm,’ advocates that measures should be taken to improve the quality of the population as a way to “uplift society.” Lastly, the tenth theme of ‘building a cohesive community and society’ holds that through “shared spaces and engagement,” a strong and bonded community can be built. Iqbal concludes by describing the manifesto as a “narrative of transformation,” highlighting the emphasis placed by PIDE on the need for collective will, commitment from politicians, and active participation from the people to successfully implement the transformative agenda. (Dr Nasir Iqbal, “A manifesto for reform,” The News International, 23 January 2024)
 
AF-PAK RELATIONS
Torkham border crossing to reopen soon
On 23 January, The Express Tribune reported that the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan that has remained shut since 13 January is set to reopen. This is due to a relaxation in visa and travel documents requirement that the Pakistani authorities had set for the drivers. This relaxation will be from a period from 23 January until 31 March 2024. Earlier, Pakistan had introduced a new mandatory rule for all truckers and their assistants to produce visa and travel documents at the border. Afghanistan had rejected this and the ensuing disagreement had led to a closure for ten days. The new relaxation came after a the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and chamber of commerce delegation carried out negotiations with Pakistani embassy staff to seek relaxation. They also cited the adverse impact on trade. Currently, most border crossings like Chaman, Torkham, Ghulam Khan, Angur Ada, and Kharlachi remain closed leading to an estimated Rs 680 million for both sides on a daily basis. (Shahabullah Yousafzai, “Pak-Afghan border at Torkham set to reopen,” The Express Tribune, 23 January 2024)

Over 500,000 Afghans leave Pakistan since migration order, says IOM
On 22 January, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) stated that more than 500,000 Afghans have left Pakistan in the four months since Islamabad ordered undocumented migrants to leave or face arrest. The UN migration agency reported that between 15 September 2023, and 13 January 13 2024, 500,200 Afghans left. Further, the UN’s Afghan mission stated: “Some Afghans forced to return may be at risk of persecution, arrest and detention and/or torture or ill-treatment.” The numbers had consistently decreased since the initial peak around 1 November but remained higher than pre-15 September. (“Over half a million Afghans returned home, says International Organisation for Migration,” Dawn, 23 January 2024)
 
INDIA VIEW
Pakistan condemns the construction and consecration of ‘Ram Mandir’ in Ayodhya
On 22 January, the Foreign Ministry of Pakistan released a statement on X condemning India’s construction and consecration of the ‘Ram Mandir’ on the site of the demolished Babri Mosque in Ayodhya. The press release referred to the demolishing of the mosque on 6 December 1992 and stated that “Developments of the last 31 years, leading to today’s consecration ceremony, are indicative of growing majoritarianism in India. These constitute that an important facet of the ongoing efforts for social, economic and political marginalization of the Indian Muslims.” It further argued that “A temple built on the site of a demolished mosque will remain a blot on the face of India’s democracy for the times to come.” The statement also emphasized there are similar threats of “desecration” and “destruction” to the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Eidgah Mosque in Mathura. It called on the international community to take notice of “the growing Islamophobia, hate speech and hate crimes in India” and urged the UN and other relevant international oraganizations to endeavor to protect “Islamic heritage sites” in India from extremist groups. The statement directly urged the Government of India to “to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities, including Muslims and their holy places.” Abdullah Mohmand, in an article for Dawn has argued that the consecration ceremony by Indian Prime Narendra Modi “embodies the triumph of his muscular Hindu nationalist politics, galvanising loyalists in an unofficial start to his re-election campaign this year.” (AFP &Abdullah Momand, “Pakistan condemns consecration of temple on site of razed Babri mosque in India’s Ayodhya,” Dawn, 22 January 2024)

“Pakistan’s government under Nawaz Sharif’s party had the best performance in managing the economy over the past three decades compared with rivals, according to an analysis by Bloomberg Economics.” -Marriyum Aurangzeb   “Nawaz Sharif is the most popular leader in Pakistan right now! A true leader resonating with the people.” -PML-N   “Pakistan captain Ammad Butt: "I want to tell you that the boys haven’t been paid for the last 6 months. The boys are giving 100 percent and their blood and sweat for Pakistan but the way we are treated it’s totally unfair." - Muneeb Farrukh

“Tiny state officials and common criminals can turn diabolical.” - An opinion in Dawn, ‘Blinding rage’