In Brief
POLITICS
Tarar alleges internal disagreement among PTI over amendments
On 23 October, The News International reported that the Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar has claimed that the PTI had given its nod over 90 per cent of the clauses in the recently passed amendment. He further stated that the amendment was not passed in a rush and that it took around two and a half months to bring about consensus among all. On the allegations by PTI’s Omar Ayub Khan, Tarar replied that four MNAs who have been criticized for floor crossing are actually independently elected members and they acted according to their own will and choice. He further claimed that PTI’s demand of excluding two particular clauses was met by the ruling coalition and that PTI members had an internal feud over participating in special parliamentary meetings. (Muhammad Anis, “Ata Tarar claims infighting in PTI over amendments,” The News International, 23 October, 2024)
Eight bills including the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) get federal cabinet’s nod
On 22 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Shehbaz Sharif led cabinet has given its nod to eight key bills. Among those are the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) bill which is restricted to Islamabad Capital Territory. The bill aims to to provide an institutional framework in order to curb domestic violence. Additionally, the bill aims to punish the perpetrators of domestic violence and provide relief for the victims. Another key bill, Hajj Policy 2025, could not get passed due to the unavailability of Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik. In addition to that, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also voiced his concern over the spike in polio cases and has asked for a comprehensive report. He has also instructed to initiate an emergency plan to tackle the polio cases. (“Federal cabinet approves key bills while hajj policy delayed again,” The Express Tribune, 22 October, 2024)
PTI must move away from its “favoured tactic of confrontation and agitation,” suggests an editorial in The News International
An editorial in The News International titled “PTI’s strategic void” argued that PTI’s decision to boycott the Special Parliamentary Committee was not a pragmatic step. It highlighted PTI’s double standards where on one hand they termed the amendment as an attack on independence of judiciary and on the other hand some members of PTI were part of the committee. The editorial opined that instead of PTI consistently involving itself in accusing others of foul play it should have actively participated in the nomination process which would have given it a chance influence the decision making. The editorial further criticized PTI’s ‘flip-flop’ strategy and stated the confusion over how a party that aims to put rule of law first is not willing to participate in the democratic process. The editorial observed the inability of the PTI to understand that protests on streets and political rhetoric can only have a limited impact. In the absence of Imran Khan, PTI’s leadership seems directionless which might be a result of the party’s centralized leadership and the fear of the party members to act independently. It is now for the PTI members to decide whether they want to remain a party of street agitation or involve itself in governance and lawmaking and emerge as an established political force. PTI missed a crucial opportunity to mark its influence in the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s nomination and if its actions continue to be like this, it would lose its support base and isolate itself from the democratic principles for which it claims to stand for. (“PTI’s strategic void,” The News International, 23 October 2024)
JUDICIARY
Reserved seats verdict not binding, clarifies CJP Isa
On 22 October, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa conveyed that the Supreme Court’s order on reserved seats would remain non-binding as the appeals against it are still undecided. The Supreme Court’s order on 12 July clearly stated that the “41 returned candidates are members of PTI’s Parliamentary party in the National Assembly for all constitutional and legal purposes.” However, the parties in the ruling coalition: PML-N and PPP and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had filed appeals against the decision which are yet to be heard in the court. Previously, the Supreme Court had directed the ECP to strictly comply with its order and that amendments introduced in the Election Act would have no effect on its judgment. CJP, however, clarified that the judgment can only be executed if the appeals against it are fully decided which did not happen in this case. As a result, contempt of court for not obeying the orders of court cannot be filed. (Umer Mehtab, “Implementation of reserved seats verdict not binding, CJP Isa says in a detailed note,” Dawn, 22 October, 2024)
ECONOMY
IMF projects increase in growth, contrary to WB and ADB estimates
On 22 October, Dawn reported that the IMF has predicted a growth of 3.2 per cent in the current fiscal, which does not meet the government’s target but surpasses estimates made by the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). These two multilateral organizations have projected Pakistan’s growth to be at 2.8 per cent and inflation or the consumer price index to be at 10 per cent. On the contrary, a reported released by the World Economic Outlook (WEO) has projected a stable economic growth in Pakistandespite internal and external risks such as regional conflicts, China’s slowdown and the repercussions of strict monetary policy and financial market volatility. The WEO has also projected the country’s inflations level at 9.5 per cent which would subsequently decrease to 6.5 per cent by 2029. While the current account deficit is at 0.9 per cent of the economic growth, and will remain so even in 2029. On the other hand, the report predicted that global inflation will continue and even hit 5.8 per cent in 2024 and fall to 4.3 per cent in the following year. According to IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, inflation may be heading in the correct direction without causing a major decline “in economic growth or global recession,” as such. (Khaleeq Kiani, “IMF sees country’s economic growth at 3.2pc, inflation at 9.5pc,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
Finance Minister calls for shift in "economic DNA"
On 22 October, Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb expressed the need to alter Pakistan’s economic model by transforming it into an investment led rather than one led by aid. He claimed that Pakistan’s “economic DNA” ought to be changed from an “import led and import dependent” one to an “export led” economy in order to avoid cycles of “booms and busts.” He emphasized the necessity for sustainable growth and even explained that the government was uninterested in doing business. He said that the “Government has to provide the policy framework and policy continuity. It’s the private sector which has to lead the country.” In terms of expenditure, he confirmed that the government was making moves to privatize the State Owned Enterprises and even get rid of the loss making ones. He claimed that the government has been taking actions to reduce the volume of the federation by creating 150,000 vacancies as, “it has a real impact of the budget.” Separately, during a Bloomberg interview, Aurangzeb observed that China’s response in extending the debt maturity period in the Belt and Road Initiative was encouraging, despite negotiations still being in their early stages. (Wajid Ali Syed, “Debt reprofile talks with China encouraging: Aurangzeb,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
“It is time the authorities took advantage of the recent stability to implement structural and policy reforms,” suggests an editorial in Dawn
On 23 October, an editorial titled “Small relief” in Dawn discussed how the decline in Current Account Deficit (CAD) by 92 per cent may not last long. The country has currently found relief and decreased economic uncertainty owing to the International Monetary Fund’s stabilization measures, a balanced exchange rate and a slowdown in inflation and borrowing costs. However, it may not last long as the country would be tempted to increase its imports thereby worsening the CAD levels. This may be overcome only if remittances are able to counterbalance the rising import bill. The government may consider the shrinking of the CAD a success as it has brought about stability in currency and economic volatility, but it isn’t a matter to celebrate as it “is a mere reflection of the compromise on economic growth through import curbs and other controls over forex outflows at the cost of investor confidence.” The editorial also reflected upon the inherent structural issues in the economy that have led the country to shift “from one balance of payments crisis to the next” after the economy demonstrates stability. Hence, in order to put an end to this vicious cycle the government or the relevant authorities ought to “take advantage” of the stability and bring out structural and policy reforms to enjoy long-term benefits of an “improved business environment” and investors confidence. (“Small relief,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
HEALTH
Polio cases surge as over 1 million miss polio dose in September
On 22 October, The Express Tribune reported on the resurgence of polio in Pakistan as official reports reflect an increase of more than 12 cases in the current month, bringing the current year’s total tally up to 39. The recent surge in cases has been linked to the low vaccine administration as more than 1 million children have missed their polio dose in September. The Focal Person to the Pakistani Prime Minister on Polio Eradication, Ayesha Raza, said: “The existing immunity gap has worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted vaccination efforts.” She added that this gap is expected to widen, hence, efforts are being made to increase surveillance and even fill the gaps. However, it is a daunting task as regions which have the highest reports of polio also record increased violence against vaccination workers. So far, about 27 attacks have been directed towards polio workers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province this year. On the other hand, militants believe that vaccines are part of a Western conspiracy and to justify they target on polio campaigns. (“Pakistan sees uptick in polio cases as over 1 million children miss vaccination shots,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
“To eliminate polio, Pakistan must adopt a sustained approach,” suggests an editorial in Dawn
On 23 October, an editorial titled “Ending polio” in Dawn reviewed the current spike in polio cases and suggested a list of reforms besides the government’s recently announced National Emergency Action Plan for Polio 2024-2025. The plan entails vaccination of moving and migrant populations, improving coordination efforts with Afghanistan and even steps to “improve management and oversight.” The government hopes to close the widening immunity gap by addressing these sections of the population. However, in order to reap long-term benefits and ensure that the vaccination drive has been effectively implemented, the government ought to prioritize delivery of essential services such as nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene. It has been noted that poor sanitation has led to the transmission of polio. Besides, efforts should also be directed towards debunking misinformation campaigns. An increaseed media engagement may help support the process of educating guardians or parents regarding the criticality of immunization. The government must also address its security issue in vulnerable regions to ensure the protection of polio workers and “improve routine immunization coverage.” (““Ending polio,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
SOCIETY
Punjab government has "a lot of work to do to get Lahore’s air to breathable levels," argues and editorial in The News International
On 23 October, an editorial in The News International titled “Toxic Skies” discussed the unacceptable air quality in the city of Lahore. The editorial cited data released by the IQAir in which Lahore has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world. The air in Lahore which has an AQI of over 400, is reportedly 80 times worse than what is normally acceptable. Air pollution becomes worse in Lahore in the winter season because of the slow speed of the winds when the AQI level crosses 1000. The editorial highlighted some reasons for this poor air quality such as improper waste management system, burning of plastic and agricultural waste and obsolete technology used in cars and factories that leads to release of hazardous smoke as culprits for the deteriorating air quality. It also listed some of the key measures taken by the Punjab Government to curb air pollution such as distributing 1000 super-seeders to the farmers and procuring 5000 electric buses. The editorial called it a step in the right direction and stressed on how absence of better alternatives lead citizens to stick to traditional practices such as burning garbage in the open and depending upon obsolete vehicles which are responsible for worsening the air quality. (“Toxic Skies,” The News International, 23 October, 2024)
Government must heed to the ADB latest report on the urbanization process in Pakistan, suggests and editorial in Dawn
On 23 October, an editorial in Dawn titled “Unliveable cities” discussed the poor living conditions in the urban cities of Pakistan and the challenges faced by its inhabitants. It referenced the report titled “Pakistan National Urban Assessment” by the Asian Development Bank(ADB) where it is projected that by 2030, 100 million people that make up 41 per cent of Pakistan’s population will live in cities. ADB has termed the circumstances in Pakistan as a “messy urbanization model” that comprises improper plans, poor quality infrastructure and insufficient services. It has also highlightedthe challenges faced by the inhabitants of the cities such as the housing crisis, bad quality water, improper sanitation services and a poor solid waste management system. The report from ADB has also listed some of the positive developments such as increase in the access to clean water and improved solid waste management services, however progress is limited and not substantial. The editorial opined that the government must heed to the report provided by ADB and act on the suggestions offered by it. (“Unliveable cities,” Dawn, 23 October, 2024)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and India renew Kartarpur corridor agreement
On 21 October, India and Pakistan announced the extension of the five-year Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Agreement. The agreement allows Sikh pilgrims to access the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur and connects it to Dera Baba Nanak in India’s Punjab. The corridor was initially signed in 2019 for a period of five years and has now been extended to 2029 for another five year period. It allows about 5,000 pilgrims to visit the shrine on a daily basis without a visa. The visitors, however, are disallowed from staying the night. According to the agreement, the pilgrims are to pay a charge of USD 20 per person as service charges to use the corridor. In a statement on the renewal, the Foreign Office said: “Its renewal underscores Pakistan’s enduring commitment to fostering interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence.” The statement also reflected upon Pakistan’s dedication to promoting the rights of minorities and enabling them to carry out their pilgrimages. Separately, a statement released by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs noted that the renewed agreement was achieved via diplomacy. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Kartarpur corridor deal extended until Oct 2029 ,” Dawn, 23 October 2024)
India expected to support Pakistan’s membership to the BRICS
On 22 October, an article published in The Express Tribune reported that India is likely to support Pakistan’s induction in BRICS at the upcoming BRICS summit scheduled to be held in Kazan, Russia from 22 -23 October. Initially, India had opposed the inclusion of Pakistan into the group by citing issues related to economic instability and other geopolitical challenges. However, now there is a shift in the attitudes of Russia and China, thereby forcing g India to review its position. Sources revealed to the Express Tribune that this development comes after the Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar attended the recently concluded Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Pakistan. It marked a rare occasion of diplomatic dialogue between the two countries and even played a part in India’s resolve to support Pakistan’s admission into the BRICS. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “India likely to support Pakistan’s BRICS membership bid at Kazan summit ,” The Express Tribune, 22 October 2024)
WORLD VIEW
The West has grown unpopular and countries are looking for alternatives, argues an editorial in The Nation
On 23 October, an editorial titled “Sanctions Hypocrisy,” in The Nation discussed how the West has “aided, armed and abetted” Israel in carrying out its assault in Palestine. It reflected upon how this has quashed the myth of the West championing democratic and humanitarian beliefs. The editorial reads: “More and more, the global population is awakening to the reality of how the West has manipulated its power to suppress other nations.” The editorial also pointed out a contradiction of how the US has blacklisted several entities however, they the same country has supplied military aid to Israel and Ukraine to facilitate a “genocide” and leading to a loss of many lives. But the paradox also extends to designation of terrorists, sanctions and blacklisting from international financial organizations, where countries that oppose the US interests have to witness this. The editorial observed that as US grows unpopular in the international arena, countries are seeking alternative engagements “found in forums like the BRICS summit.” The editorial claimed the Pakistan is on the right track as its “national security is far more critical than aligning with the U.S.’s imperial goals.” (“Sanctions Hypocrisy ,” The Nation, 23 October 2024)
|
According to the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Kisan Card will be officially activated starting today.
- PMLN Digital
If this parliament is to pass the judgments of judges which itself is a product of Form 47 and is fake, the purpose of passing the constitutional amendment in the dark of night is that you have tried to destroy the independence of the judiciary.
Parliamentary Leader Ms. Zartaj Gul Wazir.
- PTI
Who else could have envisioned such forward-thinking initiatives for women? CM Maryam Nawaz’s focus on empowerment and safety is unmatched in Punjab’s history.
- PMLN
|
|
|
|
"What happened on the night of Oct 20 and 21 has demolished the very foundation of the Constitution."
- An opinion in Dawn, ‘A Pyrrhic victory'
|
|
|
