In Brief
ECONOMY
Monthly economic reports hints inflation to come down to 5.8 – 6.8 per cent in November
On 27 November, the Ministry of Finance in its monthly economic report projected that the inflation in the country is anticipated to come down to 5.8 to 6.8 per cent for the month of November. Further, the numbers are expected to hover around 5.6 to 6.5 per cent for the month of December. The report also highlighted that the federal government in November had lowered the rates of interest by “250 basis points.” Inflation had reduced to 7.2 per cent in the month of October which is much lower than the peak value witnessed in May 2023 where this number was 40 per cent. As per the report, the consumer price index remained at 8.7 per cent for July to October. The number stood at 28.5 per cent in 2023 for the same months. The report mentioned that year-on-year was higher in October (7.2 per cent) in comparison to September (6.9 per cent), however it was substantially less than what was observed in October 2023 (26.8 per cent). (“Inflation seen slowing to 5.8 pc – 6.8 pc in November: report,” Dawn, 27 November 2024)
ECC takes note on its 18 unimplemented decisions
On 28 November, The News International reported that 18 decisions out of a total 133 decisions that were taken by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) were not implemented yet. ECC instructed the Ministry of Finance to provide it with a thorough report on “Pension Scheme Amendment” which got the consent on 13 June 2024. The latter conveyed to the ECC that discussions would be held with various stakeholders and then a final report would be put forward. It also instructed the Ministry of Industries for putting forward a proposal upon the “right sizing plan” which is initiated by the government. It questioned the Ministry of housing and Ministry of Interior on the issue of “maintenance of buildings.” ECC was informed by the concerned ministries on the “overall” progress of “implementation” of its previously taken decisions. The concerned ministries also informed ECC about the issues arising in implementation of its decisions and what measures it has taken to overcome those issues. (Mehtab Haider, “ECC concerned over delays in implementation of its decisions,” The News International, 28 November 2024)
Sizeable section of the population unaware of cuts in electricity rate
On 28 November, The News International reported that as per a survey conducted by Gallup Pakistan, 47 per cent of the sampled population did not know about the cuts made by the Punjab provincial government in electricity rates. The electricity rates were slashed by PKR 14 in August and September. The survey indicated that 40 per cent of the men and 55 per cent of women did not have a clue about the electricity price cuts. In cities and rural areas, the numbers stood at 39 per cent and 52 per cent respectively who reported that they did not have information regarding electricity rates cuts. (“47pc unaware of power bills relief: survey,” The News International, 28 November 2024)
SOCIETY
“The internet, a 21st-century wonder, is being treated as a liability rather than an asset” says an editorial in The News International
On 28 November, an editorial in The News International titled “No internet” discussed how the government initiated internet curbs for containing the PTI protests have had an adverse effect on those Pakistanis whose livelihood is heavily dependent on good internet connection. The editorial highlighted the predicament of the people who witnessed disruptions in messenger services from 23 November. Hindering access to messenger services was sought as a way to contain the PTI protests in the federal capital. The editorial, however, argued that the government measure to disrupt internet services was seen by the world in a bad light and also pointed out at Pakistan’s collapsible “internet infrastructure.” The editorial noted how the internet is extremely essential for “freelancers, remote workers and small businesses” whose employment status heavily relies on it. The editorial also argued that when the world witnesses internet blackouts such as these in the country, the international firms are likely to hesitate to employ freelancers from the countryfearing unreliability. . The editorial concluded by stating that protests should not cause damage but must be geared towards bringing “constructive” change in the society. (“No internet,” The News International, 28 November 2024)
SECURITY
Kurram clashes continue despite 10-day ceasefire
On 28 November, the tribal conflict in Kurram entered its eighth day, with the death toll going up to 107. This development comes a day after the warring tribes agreed upon initating a ceasefire for 10 days. Police officials reported that the recent clashes led to the demise of five more people while nine others sustained injuries. Kurram Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud stated that efforts to subdue the violence are underway. He said: "A jirga of elders from Hangu, Orakzai and Kohat is reaching Parachinar for talks. The parties have agreed to the ceasefire, while efforts are underway to fully implement the truce."
HEALTH
Polio cases in 2024 climbs to 56
On 27 November, Dawn reported that a new case of polio was detected in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This has brought the total number of cases in the country to 56 in 2024. Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only two countries where polio has not been eradicated. Issues like “vaccine hesitancy, security and misinformation” are major roadblocks for eradication of polio from the country. Dera Ismail Khan is one of the “polio-endemic districts” and six cases have been detected in the district so far this year. In terms of province wise cases, Balochistan tops the list with 26 cases followed by KP which has reported 15 cases in 2024. In Sindh, 13 cases have been detected whereas in Punjab and Islamabad one case each have been reported. The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has urged the parents of the children below the age of five to make sure that their children do not miss vaccination. (Nadir Guramani, “7th polio case for Dera Ismail Khan takes Pakistan’s 2024 tally to 56,” Dawn, 27 November 2024)
EXTERNAL
China’s Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission visits Islamabad
On 28 November, Dawn reported that China’s Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) General Zhang Youxia visited Islamabad and held talks with the Chief of Army Staff, Asim Munir. As per Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) the discussion between the two dignitaries involved issues of bilateral interest, security situation in the region, steps that could be taken for maintaining stability in the region and increase in mutual defence engagement. The main point of deliberation between the two leaders was focused on measures taken by the security forces in Pakistan to combat the threat of terrorism and the spike observed in terror assaults on Chinese citizens working in Pakistan. Foreign Office of Pakistan has stated that any cooperation in security between the two countries must not trespass the sovereignty of Pakistan or China. The two leaders also deliberated on the role of India in South Asia and about Afghanistan becoming a breeding ground for terror activities. (Baqir Sajjad Syed, “Pak-China military talks focus on terrorism, security,” Dawn, 28 November 2024)
31 December set as deadline for Afghan citizens without NOC to leave Islamabad
On 27 November, The Express Tribune reported that as per Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, 31 December 2024 has been set as a deadline after which Afghan citizens who do not possess a No objection certificate (NOC) will not be permitted to reside in Islamabad. Mohsin Naqvi also questioned the authenticity of the speculations seen in social media that the PTI protests have resulted in lots of casualties. He confirmed that a full report on the same would be put forward in the High Court. He also paid a visit to PIMS Hospital in Islamabad for a meeting with the security officials who were wounded during the PTI protests. Applauding the spirit of the wounded security officials Mohsin Naqvi stated “You are the heroes of the nation. We are proud of you for maintaining patience and composure in the face of adversity.” It is reported that Naqvi is putting efforts to make sure that the wounded security officials get the best available medical care. (“Afghan citizens without NOC won’t be allowed in Islamabad from 2025: Mohsin Naqvi,” The Express Tribune, 27 November 2024)
WORLD VIEW
Despite ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah “underlying factors fuelling tensions remain unaddressed” says an editorial in Dawn
On 28 November, an editorial in Dawn titled “Lebanon truce” discussedthe ceasefire agreement which was agreed between Israel and Hezbollah after the latter showcased strong retaliation to the former’s aggression. The editorial termed the 60-day ceasefire “a tactical break for both sides.” The editorial pointed out that this ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces does not address the root of the problem which led to the escalation of tensions between the two in the first place. The editorial referenced the statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who confirmed that the truce would enable Israeli forces to put all their attention towards combating the threat posed by Iran. The editorial pointed out how despite the truce agreement violence in Gaza goes on uninterrupted and alleged that blueprints are being developed in Israel to invade the West Bank completely. The editorial argued that to ensure peace in the region, it is essential that Israel puts an end to carrying out assaults in Gaza, does not trespass the sovereignty of neighboring countries and works towards establishing a Palestinian state. (“Lebanon truce,” Dawn, 28 November 2024)
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In search of the question of why the crime scene was washed immediately after Benazir's martyrdom, People's Party along with PML-N washed the crime scene of D Chowk.
- Imran Riaz Khan
On the occasion of the SCO meeting, the rioters spread chaos in Islamabad.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's conversation with the cabinet meeting
- PMLN Digital
Transportation of Automatic Weapons to the Islamabad Massacre. SMGs, sniper rifles, automatic weapons also known as fully automatic firearms are self-loading guns that fire continuously when the trigger is pulled.
- Qasim Khan Suri
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"The way forward in Kurram entails both short- and long-term solutions."
- An opinion in Dawn, ‘Kurram carnage’
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