IMF rules out the need for a mini-budget I SC constitutional bench begins hearing cases
In Brief
POLITICS
Imran Khan declares countrywide protests on 24 November
On 13 November, incarcerated leader Imran Khan announced a “final call” for protests across Pakistan on 24 November. He called upon his supporters to condemn the “dictatorial regime” and undemocratic practices, including the arrest of people and the implementation of the recently passed 26th Amendment. He made these statements while speaking with media persons after the hearing in the GBP 190 million corruption case in which he is an accused. He emphasized that 24 November was an important day for carrying out demonstrations and called upon people residing within and outside Pakistan to rise in solidarity. Responding to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf founder’s announcement, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said that “any form of mischief under the guise of ‘peaceful’ protests” will not be tolerated. She alleged that the PTI was “unwilling” to accept the “prosperity” that the ruling coalition had brought to Pakistan. She added: “The role of the ‘umpire’, the conspiratorial behaviour, and the facilitation to the PTI’s founder has been the foundation of the political journey of this party.” Responding to this statement, PTI Punjab Information Secretary Shaukat Basra retorted that the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government rose to power through an “umpire” and “Form 47 manipulation.” (Malik Asad, “Imran gives ‘final call’ for nationwide protests,” The News International, 14 November 2024)
Pakistan would have been an Asian Tiger by now, says Nawaz Sharif
On 13 November, while addressing a worker’s convention in London, Pakistan Muslim League (N) founder, Nawaz Sharif claimed that earlier mistakes by “petty individuals” have adversely impacted the country and democracy. He claimed that if not for this “disturbance,” Pakistan would have become a member of the G20 by now. Though it was not clear who he was referring to, it seemed as if he was referring to the judiciary given that he mentioned his removal from office. He claimed that his removal was carried out to fulfill personal interests. He further added: “For menial personal gains, they put the country on the line and kept sending prime ministers home.” He regretted the fact that he was removed from the world of politics. He also referred to instances of corruption linked to the judiciary. He commented that such actions should be denounced. He stated that there’s hope for Pakistan, as it is “coming out of darkness.” (Atika Rehman, “Nawaz rues past mistakes that cost the country dearly,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
“It is time” that PTI abandoned “the rhetoric of division and threats of provincial fracture, suggests an editorial in The Nation
On 14 November, an editorial titled “Final Call,” in The Nation discussed Imran Khan’s latest call for protests, a “final call.” The editorial argued that the “final call” may not bring about the desired outcomes for the party as the party’s perpetual call for protests from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Punjab has not led to any breakthroughs. The editorial observed how besides the party workers, the PTI is unable to garner much public support as the crowds in the protests have consistently “dwindled.”This has further eroded the party’s credibility. The editorial wondered whether this was the last call for protest and if it has no impact on the government, would it reflect upon “the public’s resounding rejection of this approach?” The editorial suggested that the PTI should return to the parliament and function as an “effective” opponent. It should engage in negotiations and compromise to achieve something “constructive.” (“Final Call,” The Nation, 14 November 2024)
JUDICIARY
SC constitutional bench begins hearing cases
On 14 November, Dawn reported that the newly formed constitutional bench is scheduled to take up 18 cases today. Among these are an air pollution case, 17 other human rights cases, and a review petition. The court is set to hear a public petition filed in 2007 against pollution caused by Islamabad’s industrial units in Sectors I-9 and I-10. The review petition contended that the 2018 judgment, was linked to the appointment of former Chief Justice, Faez Isa as the chief justice in Balochistan’s High Court. The six-judge bench led by Justice Aminuddin Khan will resume hearing old cases, namely, the lady health workers programme, and two other harassment cases. In the meantime, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) secretary, Salman Mansoor denounced the 26th Amendment. He claimed that it was against the common man and posed a direct threat to freedom and democracy in Pakistan. He opined that the executive is the citizens’ biggest foe. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC constitutional bench to take up 18 rights cases today,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
“If these constitutional benches can demonstrate swifter processing of cases without compromising justice, this model may well become a progressive step in judicial reform,” argues an editorial in The News International
On 14 November, an editorial in The News International titled “Constitutional benches” expressed skepticism over the Constitutional Bench’s effectiveness. The editorial pointed out that the general public may be relieved to learn that the Supreme Court is now available to provide justice on non-political cases. But it also conceded this will take time. Given the “newness” of the amendment, it will take time to determine and differentiate the Supreme Court’s and the Constitutional bench’s jurisprudence. Nevertheless, the editorial observed that the bench can either be a success or a failure. It could either be a product of the politicization of the judiciary or be able to uphold the rule of law sans political biases. The editorial underscored that this division within the judiciary may either be a step towards progress or simply add to the existing “institutional fragmentation” and further question the judiciary’s integrity. (“Constitutional benches,” The News International, 14 November 2024)
ECONOMY
IMF rules out the need for a mini-budget
On 14 November, Dawn reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has relieved the authorities from not implementing a mini-budget. Sources from the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue revealed that the lender was pleased by the tax-to-GDP ratio increase by 1.5 per cent points. Additionally, the Federal Board of Revenue will not have to alter its PKR 12.97 trillion collection target. Officials have predicted that the economic trajectory is about to pick up as the exchange rate is expected to reach stability and the monetary policy is likely to fall further, thereby compensating for the PKR 190 billion shortfall in the tax collection in the first quarter. The sources added that there will be no increase in levies or general sales taxes on petroleum products. They also hinted that the revenue collection on agricultural income will be implemented from the following fiscal and that the Tajir Dost Scheme is being amended to bring retailers under the tax net. Separately, the International Monetary Fund raised concerns over the USD 1.2 billion Saudi Oil Facility (SOF). The SOF was an assurance that Saudi Arabia gave to the IMF of lending USD 1.2 billion to Pakistan during the USD 7 billion Extended Facility Fund approval. However, despite a Saudi delegation scheduled to visit Islamabad, the IMF believes that it may not be executed. (Khaleeq Kiani, “Mini-budget unlikely as IMF satisfied with tax steps,” Dawn, 12 November 2024; Mehtab Haider, “IMF raises red flag on $1.2bn Saudi oil facility,” The News International, 14 November 2024)
Only the unwise would fall for expensive projects like the FBR transformation plan, says an editorial in Dawn
On 14 November, an editorial in Dawn titled “A high-cost plan” discussed the assent given to the costly plan of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) amid a fall in tax collection. A total amount of PKR 25 billion has been sanctioned to be used by the FBR for buying roughly 1087 cars, recruitment of more than 1700 retired army officers, building a “model tax office,” hiring AI specialists, and financing “performance bonuses” of FBR employees. All this is being done to boost the capacity of the FBR so that it becomes more capable of shrinking the tax gap of PKR 7 trillion. The package has come at a time when the country has witnessed a fall in tax collection by PKR 190 billion. The editorial also highlighted how the fall in tax collection brought about an unexpected visit by the International Monetary Fund team to Islamabad. The editorial argued that the project is not in compliance with the earlier plan of cutting down expenses and reducing the work size of the present government. It further pointed out that previous projects like this have not been able to produce any desired outcomes. The editorial noted that these actions don’t correct any structural shortcomings in the revenue system which include a narrow tax base and exemption of high earning population such as “retailer, large farmers, doctors, lawyers”, etc. (“A high-cost plan,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
Energy Sector to see key reforms
On 14 November, The News International reported that Power Minister Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has announced the initiation of an “Independent System Market Operator” which would be in operation from March 2025, and “privatization of distribution companies.” These measures are directed towards improving efficiency and reducing the cost of electricity generation. He also took note of how the poor economic situation of the country impacts the much-needed reforms in the energy sector. He claimed that in the past there has not been “strategic planning” in the energy sector which has led to Pakistan’s population depending upon costly power generation. He also disclosed another new reform in the power sector which is “Independent System Market Operator” which would be in full swing from March 2025. With this, the Government would not play any part between electricity buyers and electricity sellers. (Israr Khan, “Pakistan power sector to undergo major overhaul,” The News International, 14 November 2024)
HEALTH
Pakistan faces a serious problem of diabetes
On 14 November, The News International reported that roughly 36 million adult population in Pakistan are hit by diabetes. The numbers are even worse for the women population. In 1990, 9 per cent of women were having the problem of diabetes, whereas in 2022 this number surged to 30.9 per cent. The country thus remains in huge jeopardy of being affected by other problems like “blindness, amputations” etc. As per the World Health Organization data, the number of adult population who are suffering from diabetes increased from 198 million in 1990 to 800 million at present. Another cause of worry is that roughly 59 per cent of the adults who were affected by diabetes worldwide did not get any treatment in 2022. Experts have cautioned of the long-term effects of a country's healthcare facilities if immediate action is not taken. Experts suggest working towards providing “standardized care,” access to inexpensive medicines, and investing in “public health campaigns” so that diabetes does not spread any further. (M Waqar Bhatti, "Diabetes crisis worsens in Pakistan as 36 million affected," The News International, 14 November 2024)
ENVIRONMENT
It is time “to demand world leaders they pay more attention to the environment,” suggests an editorial in The News International
On 14 November, an editorial titled “The rich don’t care,” in The News International discussed how the developed countries and the rich in general have no regard for the developing countries or the common man. The editorial pointed this out with the 29th Conference of Parties (COP) hosted in Azerbaijan as the backdrop. It noted how in the last two conferences the wealthy countries have displayed the least interest in providing financial assistance to the developing states. As the impact of climate change continues to worsen by the day, the editorial noted how the former remains unaffected by climate catastrophes. It cited an Oxfam report which highlights how these countries invest in “polluting businesses,” thereby hindering the rest of the world’s commitment to protecting the environment. Additionally, there are officials at the international monetary institutions who are “dismissive of countries’ adoption of renewable energy to protect their investments in a fossil fuel-based power sector.” The editorial shed light on how prominent figures within Pakistan have also fled the country, with “no formal work commitment” as Lahore and Punjab suffer from smog crises. The editorial observed that such behavior also widens the gap between the affluent and the common man as they have no “bunkers, no space mission, and no vacation homes to go to.” (“The rich don’t care,” The News International, 14 November 2024)
SECURITY
Three laborers abducted by armed men in Duki, Balochiatsn
On 14 November, Dawn reported that a camp of a road-building firm was attacked by unidentified armed men. The armed men abducted three laborers at “gunpoint” from the camp and set ablaze the construction machinery. Police informed that the construction machinery was completely destroyed due to the fire. This adds to the list of several incidents that have struck Duki for the past few months. In October, some unidentified men had ambushed a coal mine in Duki which resulted in the killing of 21 coal miners. Previously, there have also been attacks on coal-carrying trucks bound for Punjab which had also been set on fire. (“Armed men attack Duki construction camp, kidnap three labourers,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
PROVINCES
Balochistan government approaches federal government to enhance security for Sibi by-elections
On 14 November, Dawn reported that the Balochistan provincial government had made a written request to the federal government for the deployment of Frontier Corps and army personnel during the Sibi by-elections to beef up the security measures. Further, it has also requested for blocking of mobile networks on 17 November in Sibi and Kachhi. The provincial government wants to make sure that the elections take place in a fair and undisturbed manner. On another note, the Election Commission of Pakistan has conveyed that re-polling would take place in seven of the polling stations of the PB-36 Kalat constituency and is scheduled for 1 December. (Saleem Shahid, “Balochistan requests army deployment for Sibi by-elections,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
Balochistan formulates action plan to improve “governance and security”
On 14 November, Dawn reported that the Balochistan government will be working on developing a “provincial plan” which would aim to improve “governance and security” across Balochistan. The plan was presented by Chief Secretary of Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan in a meeting which was also attended by Chief Minister of Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti. The Chief Secretary informed that an all-inclusive strategy is being devised to efficiently combat “terrorism, crime, extortion and cases of smuggling.” It is anticipated that the action plan will bring significant changes in the overall “governance and security” situation in Balochistan. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti stressed the significance of merging “modern technology” with the action plan and the need to improve the “professional capacity” of security agencies for fighting terror and crime. (“Balochistan prioritizes security with new action plan,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
EXTERNAL
China’s lunar mission to use Suparco-made rover
On 13 November, Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) conveyed that it will be working together with China on its “lunar exploration Chang’e 8 mission” which is scheduled for launch in 2028. This signifies an important development since Suparco’s very own rover would be used in the mission to study the lunar surface. The rover would touch down on the southern pole of the moon. The mission aims to study the lunar surface and perform “scientific experiments,” which would include examination of “lunar soil” and “mapping the lunar surface.” The rover from Suparco would play a vital role in collecting data which could further open future possibilities for lunar explorations. (Amin Ahmed, “Suparco joins China’s mission for lunar exploration,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
“Media reports indicate China wants a joint security mechanism with Pakistan” reveals an editorial in Dawn
An editorial in Dawn titled “China security ties” discussed several media reports indicating that China wants to deploy its own security officials for protecting Chinese nationals in Pakistan. The editorial highlighted how the recent attacks on Chinese nationals working in Pakistan has exacerbated China’s worries regarding safety of their citizens in Pakistan. It had earlier led to strained ties between the two countries when the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan and Foreign Office had exchanged heated arguments. However, the recent comments from the Chinese Foreign Ministry seemed to have eased the tensions with China vowing to support Pakistan in combating the menace of terrorism. However, this doesn’t change the fact that China remains anxious over the security situation in Pakistan. Reports have surfaced that indicate China wants its own security deployed for protection of its nationals working in Pakistan. The editorial argued that allowing Chinese security officials to operate in Pakistan is not the best option. Only the police and military of the country must have complete authority to administer the security situation. The editorial suggested that instead of boots on the ground, Pakistan and China must work together so that the latter can assist the former in counter-terror operations. Further, the security division that looks after the safety of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects must be provided with state-of-the-art weaponry. Also, the government must assist the division in building upon its “intelligence gathering capabilities.” (“China security ties,” Dawn, 14 November 2024)
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We and our leader Imran Khan have the same view, we only look at the national flag, sooner or later they will get justice from the courts.
Zartaj Gul Wazir
- PTI
If PTI challenges the state writ, the concession will not be taken.
Leader Muslim League (N) Barrister Aqeel Malik
- PMLN Digital
Had our government not been disrupted, Pakistan would have become an Asian tiger today.
President Muslim League (N) Muhammad Nawaz Sharif
- PMLN Digital
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"The Pakistani authorities have done the right thing to not grant the request for an expanded Chinese security presence in the country."
- An opinion in Dawn, ‘Protecting Chinese investments.’
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