SC asks for data on civilian trials in military courts I Pakistan denies any plans to occupy the Wakhan corridor
In Focus
PTI leaders meet COAS amid third round of interparty negotiations
On 16 January, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) leaders, Ali Amin Gandapur and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan came under criticism for their meeting with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir. The meeting’s objective remains unclear as both sides have made differing claims. While the PTI voiced positive outcomes from the meeting, the military side claimed that the meeting did not have a political undertone. This comes as Barrister Gohar denied meeting the army chief on many occasions. The PTI Chairman stated that he and CM Gandapur had expressed their concerns on the state of Pakistan’s stability. However, the security sources released a notification which claimed that the duo had met the COAS to discuss the security and counter-terrorism situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In this regard it said: “The discussions were presented out of context.” Imran Khan confirmed that this meeting took place and welcomed the development as his party has been making many attempts to discuss matters with the opposition. He commented that engaging in dialogue with the establishment was essential for Pakistan’s political and economic stability. He said: “I never said our doors are closed. Only through talks can stability be brought to the country.”
In the meantime, the third round of negotiations, were held between the PTI and the Pakistan Muslim League (N). After chairing the session, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq remarked that the deliberations were heading in a favorable direction. At the meeting, the PTI produced its demands charter to the speaker and the government is set to respond to it within seven working days. The demands pertain to the release of political affiliates and a probe into the 9 May and 26 February crackdown. The Speaker also stated that he shared two sets of demands with the two delegations. He suggested that the government and the opposition should ink the Charter of Economy and have a mutual stance on anti-terrorism over the course of time.
On 17 January, an editorial titled “Negotiating Forward” in The Nation reported that negotiations between the PTI and the government were finally advancing after multiple setbacks. The PTI has submitted a written charter of demands as the third round of talks has begun. This step also coincided with a meeting between the Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan. While the meeting primarily addressed provincial security challenges, its timing has raised speculation about potential links to the ongoing political talks. However, both sides appear willing to compromise, with the charter providing a framework for future reconciliation. The editorial stated that it is vital for the government to stay committed to the dialogue and for the PTI to engage in good faith. It further opined that this mutual effort could give way in resolving Pakistan’s political impasse.(Malik Asad, “PTI changes stance on meeting with military leadership,” Dawn, 17 January 2025; Muhammad Anis, Mumtaz Alvi, Shabbir Dar & Zarmeen Zehra, “Buoyant PTI confirms Gohar, Gandapur met army chief,” The News International, 17 January 2025 ; “Negotiating Forward,” The Nation, 17 January 2025)
SC calls on Ministry of Defence to provide data on civilian trials in military courts
On 16 January, the constitutional bench’s head, Justice AminudDin Khan called upon the Ministry of Defence to provide complete data on civilians who have been tried in military courts. He wants to determine if the trial of civilians were carried out in a just manner and not in the name of expediency. This development comes as the bench had taken up an intra-court appeals filed against the 23 October 2023 decision which nullified the trial of civilians involved in the 9 May events, in a court martial. At the trial, the military’s counsel argued that if sections 2(1)(d)(i) and (ii) of the Pakistan Army Act which lay provisions for the trial of civilian in military courts are considered then all the petitions filed against the military court will be invalidated. (Nasir Iqbal, “SC asks for data on civilians tried by military courts,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
Pakistan denies any plans to occupy the Wakhan corridor
On 16 January, Islamabad assured Kabul that it was not considering anyplan to occupy the Wakhan corridor and reiterated that it respects Afghanistan’s sovereignty. This statement was made in response to questions put up at the Foreign Office briefing regarding “speculations” about Pakistan’s intention to occupy the Wakhan corridor that is located between Tajikistan and Gilgit Baltistan. . In this regard, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said “On the Wakhan corridor, what I can say is that I have seen this endless speculation. It is part of Afghan territory. There is no question of Pakistan having designs on one of its neighbors.” He was also questioned regarding the visit of the “security establishment” to Tajikistan. Khan did not repudiate the visit, however, pointed out that Pakistan and Tajikistan were close friends. He also highlighted Pakistan’s concerns regarding the presence of proscribed terrorist organization Tehreek-e-Taliban in Afghanistan and them being given safe haven by the Taliban government. On Donald Trump assuming the presidency, he expressed optimism over further enhancement of ties with the US. Islamabad has yet again denied the allegations of it supporting Ukraine with arms. (“Islamabad reassures Kabul it has no designs on Wakhan,” The News International, 17 January 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
139 parliamentarians suspended by the ECP for failing to furnish asset statements
On 16 January, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) suspended the membership of 139 parliamentarians for their failure to submit their annual statement of assets. The Election Law 2017 mandates that all leaders of the National Assembly and the Senate have to furnish a copy of their statement of assets and liabilities to the Commission on an annual basis. Failure to furnish this data will lead to a suspension of their membership until they provide a statement of their assets and liabilities. In this regard, 16 National Assembly members have been suspended, while 121 members of all four provincial assemblies have also been suspended. (Ifthikar A Khan, “ECP suspends membership of 139 lawmakers,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
JUDICIARY
Al Qadir Trust case verdict: Imran Khan receives 14 year prison term and Bushra Bibi seven
On 17 January, Dawn reported that after being postponed three times, the verdict in the GBP 190m Al-Qadir Trust case has been delivered by National Accountability Bureau Judge Nasir Javed Rana. Both Imran Khan and his wife have been convicted in the case with the former receiving a prison term of 14 years and the latter of seven years. Additionally, a fine of PKR 1 million has been imposed on Khan and PKR 500,000 on Bibi. A failure of payment would lead to an additional six months jail term for Khan and three for Bibi. Further, the property of the “sham trust ‘Al-Qadir University Project Trust’” has been “forfeited to the Federal Government.” (Tahir Naseer, “Legal woes deepen as Imran and Bushra convicted in £190m Al-Qadir Trust case,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
ECONOMY
Pakistan’s liquid foreign currency reserves increase to USD 16.451 billion
On 16 January, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) revealed that Pakistan’s liquid foreign currency reserves have increased to USD 16.451 billion, with USD 11.725 billion held by the central bank and USD 4.726 billion by commercial banks. The SBP further stated that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed the rolling over of two USD 1 billion deposits with the SBP, extending their maturity to January 2026. On another front, The Express Tribune reported that the price of gold has surged locally and internationally, reaching PKR 282,200 per tola in Pakistan after a PKR 1,400 increase. The global gold rate has risen to USD 2703 per ounce, with highs of USD 2718. Interactive Commodities Director Adnan Agar noted a critical resistance zone at USD 2720-USD 2722 and predicted either further highs or corrections to USD 2650-USD 2660 based on 16 January’s closing price. The Pakistani rupee depreciated slightly by 0.03 per cent against the US dollar and closed at USD 278.86 per dollar. The dollar weakened globally due to cooling US inflation, while the yen gained on Japan’s potential rate hike. (Usman Hanif, “SBP's forex reserves rise $30m to $11.7b,” The Express Tribune, 17 January 2025)
PM Shebaz Sharif pushes for resolving FBR’s legal cases
On 16 January, Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif chaired a review meeting and instructed to hire reputable lawyers to expedite the resolution of the Federal Board of Revenues’ (FBR) tax revenue cases. He stated that the officers who file merit-based cases with integrity would receive incentives, while those making weak or false cases would face strict action. It was revealed during the meeting that 586 High Court and 637 Supreme Court cases were resolved between July and December 2024 after these reforms. However, despite this progress, 33,522 cases involving PKR 4.7 trillion remain pending. A litigation management dashboard for higher courts has also been developed. (“PM warns FBR officials for making false tax cases,” The Express Tribune, 17 January 2025)
On World Bank’s loan: “Do our politicians and policymakers have the will and patience to undertake the required reforms?” asked an editorial in Dawn
On 17 January, an editorial titled “World Bank loan” in Dawn discussed the World Bank’s loan to Pakistan that addresses its developmental challenges and it’s unclear success rate. The loan is being advanced under the International lender’s Country Partnership Framework. However, the bank has expressed its reservations pertaining to the growing militancy in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and how it could hamper investment. It also highlighted how the country has undergone continuous cycles of “boom and bust” causing any progress on economic reform to be “short-lived.” Nevertheless, the editorial expressed optimism that the package would enable Pakistan to “durably take another course” and increase investment in public facilities. In this regard, the editorial opined that package’s success would depend on addressing the actual causes behind low investment and growth rates. These causes include “shifting macroeconomic policies,” amidst a “volatile polity” and compounded by “a complex and inconsistent business environment” where trade and investment policies prove advantageous to few. (“World Bank loan,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
Telecom association raise concerns over 300 per cent price hike of routers
On 17 January, Dawn outlined a letter issued by the Telecom Operators Association (TOA) to the Ministry of Information Technology (IT) and Telecommunications and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The former had expressed concerns regarding the 300 per cent hike in price of broadband routers as it did not align with the Digital Pakistan Vision. The TOA suggested that the FBR’s estimate was unrealistic. In fact the valuation of optical network terminats and RF ports is not in-line with import invoices or market prices. They believed that the discretionary increase in ONT rates would not only have implications on broadband affordability for domestic use, it will also come in the way of Pakistan’s fibre-to-home (FTTH) development goal. As it would have a negative effect on the government’s objective to expand internet access across the state, the TOA suggested that the IT Ministry take up this matter with the FBR and develop a fair, market-relevant valuation. (Kalbe Ali, “Telecom operators resent 300pc hike in router prices,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
On basic income, “Bold policymaking can institutionalize basic income in Pakistan,” argues an opinion in Dawn
On 17 January, an opinion piece in Dawn titled “Is it time for basic income in Pakistan?” by Neil Howard argued for a universal basic income in Pakistan. He opined that “social assistance” is conditional and often comes with behavioral strings attached and prejudices. Proponents of this approach to social assistance have argued that “resources are limite.” The critics of this approach have , however, argued that limited resource claims ignore systemic decisions by the wealthy about public spending. Moreover, targeted aid excludes many in need and fosters corruption, duplication, and stigma. The author thus opined that basic income offers a transformative solution. It is defined as a periodic, unconditional cash payment to individuals. Furthermore, it simplifies welfare systems, eliminates inefficiencies, and ensures economic stability for all. The successful pilot researches in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal demonstrate its potential, showing improved health, education, agency, and reduced stress. For instance, Madhya Pradesh trials led to significant improvements in well-being, while Nepal’s pension program grew to PKR 8000 monthly. Pakistan spends over 7 per cent of its GDP on “pro-poor expenditures,” which is enough to fund a nationwide basic income of PKR 3,000 per month. The author stated that bold policymaking could institutionalize such initiatives and create a stable framework that benefits millions. (Neil Howard, “Is it time for basic income in Pakistan?,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
SOCIETY
PTCL successfully restores internet services in record time
On 16 January, The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has restored internet connectivity in record time and ensured normal speeds and smooth browsing for customers. The company added extra bandwidth during repairs to reduce disruptions. After the fix, services like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram have become fully functional. Furthermore, PTCL and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) teams worked tirelessly to resolve the issue. (“PTCL issues update on internet disruption nationwide,” The Express Tribune, 16 January 2025)
SECURITY
22 terrorists killed in Tirah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On 17 January, The News International reported that 22 terrorists were killed by security personnel in Tirah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. 18 others were wounded. Security forces have been engaged in Intelligence based operations like these since 14 December 2024. There has been a recent surge in the number of terrorist attacks in Tirah which has resulted in the loss of many innocent people and has wounded several others. President Zardari and PM Sharif appreciated the efforts by security forces in neutralizing terrorists in the area. (“Security forces neutralize 22 terrorists in Khyber,” The News International, 17 January 2025)
Aid convoy headed for Parachinar attacked, one soldier killed
On 16 January, an aid convoy of 35 vehicles carrying necessary items and headed for Parachinar was attacked in Bagan. It resulted in the killing of a security official. Four others were wounded. Security officials who were guarding the convoy responded with fire and killed six of the attackers. Ten other attackers were wounded. The attack was carried out using rockets and automatic weapons. Some of the vehicles in the convoy in spite of losing contact were able to reach Thall. In the attack, three vehicles of the convoy also bore damage. Hangu Assistant Commissioner Manan Saeed confirmed that the administration was making efforts to de-escalate the situation. As per the sources of Dawn, the attack reignited the strife between warring parties – “Talo Kunj and Badshah Kot and Chrdeval, Jalmay, Irfani and Alizai.” After the incident, “two gunship helicopters” arrived in Bagan. It was also reported that 15 trucks in the aid convoy were ransacked. People in the Grand jirga and MNA Pir Haider Ali Shah expressed condemnation over the recent attack. (“Soldier martyred as aid convoy attacked in Kurram again,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
On recent developments in Parachinar, “Kurram is far from resolved despite the signing of a peace agreement,” says an editorial in The Nation
On 17 January, an editorial titled “Protecting Peace” in The Nation stated that Parachinar remains volatile despite a recent peace agreement. A convoy carrying food and medical supplies was ambushed near Eber, leaving one soldier martyred and four injured. The clashes in Parachinar highlight deeper issues beyond land disputes, with militants from Afghanistan and sectarian groups exploiting local divisions. Increased military support and regular operations to clear militants are required to ensure convoy security. The editorial stated that without sustained government oversight, Parachinar risks remaining dependent on guarded convoys which could reignite tribal conflicts. (“Protecting Peace,” The Nation, 17 January 2025)
EXTERNAL
Boat tragedy in the Atlantic leaves 50 Pakistani nationals dead
On 17 January, Dawn reported that close to 50 Pakistani nationals lost their lives while they were attempting to illegitimately reach Europe. They were aboard on a boat which was carrying 86 people, out of which 66 were Pakistani nationals. The boat began its journey from Mauritania and had aimed to reach Canary Islands of Spain. As per the Foreign Office, the boat capsized resulting in many migrants drowning. So far, concerned authorities of Morocco have been able to rescue 36 people. Survivors of the tragedy, many of whom hail from Pakistan are staying “in a camp near Dakhla.” A team from the Pakistani embassy is traveling to Dakhla to provide aid to those who managed to survive. Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar have directed the concerned authorities to provide assistance to the victims of the tragedy. The families of the migrants who lost their lives in the tragedy alleged that the reason for their death was because of the torture. However,it was not clear on whom they were pointing fingers. It is speculated that a survivor of the tragedy claimed that the other migrants died because local authorities had hit them with hammers. (Waseem Ashraf Butt, “Atlantic boat tragedy claims lives of dozens of Pakistanis,” Dawn, 17 January 2025)
INDIA VIEW
On India’s allegation of Pakistan being an epicenter of terrorism “It is rather like a burglar crying theft while clutching a stolen wallet,” claims an editorial in Dawn
On 17 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “India’s dangerous game” discussed the comment by India’s Army General Upendra Dwivedi which termed Pakistan as an “epicenter of terrorism.” The editorial questioned the timing of the remark from the Army general and alleged that New Delhi was attempting to divert the attention of the world from its own alleged “assassination plots” which have targeted Sikh terrorists in North America. The editorial referenced a recent Washington Post report which had come up with a summary of India’s alleged involvement in carrying out “extrajudicial killings” inside Pakistan’s territory. The editorial mentioned Defence Minister of India’s remarks that Jammu and Kashmir is not complete without Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. The editorial argued that before accusing others, India should first look into its own alleged involvement in carrying out extrajudicial murders on foreign soil. The editorial also criticized responses coming from Western countries regarding India’s alleged involvement and statedthat they seemed reluctant to hold India accountable for its actions. The editorial further argued that for maintaining peace in the region, India’s Army leadership must not get into “provocative rhetoric.”
On the same day, an editorial in The News International titled “Indian allegations” discussed the same issue. The editorial mentioned India’s allegations that 80 per cent of the terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir are of Pakistani origin. Foreign Office and Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) have refuted India’s claims. ISPR has termed such allegations as “exercises in futility.” The editorial claimed that India’s alleged suppression of Jammu and Kashmir’s population after repealing Article 370 is well- known worldwide. The editorial further argued that Pakistan has shown more maturity than India in responding to allegations like such. Further, it claimed that India wants to establish its hegemony in South Asia and Pakistan only wants justice for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. The editorial suggested that the western countries should not only prioritize their economic interests over alleged violation of human rights in Jammu and Kashmir. The editorial called upon the global community to put an end to the alleged violence committed under the directions of the Modi government.
(“India’s dangerous game,” Dawn, 17 January 2025 ; “Indian allegations,” The News International, 17 January 2025)
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190 million pound case, Imran Khan used the nation's money to benefit one person for his own benefit
Bilal Azhar Kayani
- PMLN Digital
30,000 scholarships are short. Next year, we will provide 50,000 scholarships. Even if we have to give the entire budget, we will give for scholarships. We will risk our lives, but we will not let your dreams be shattered.
Maryam Nawaz
- PMLN Digital
If the decision of Ajl-e-Qadir Trust was made keeping in mind the principles of law and justice, then Imran Khan should be acquitted.
This is a case of acquittal and nothing more. The entire nation and the international world are watching, either Khan will be acquitted or the world will witness the collapse of the judicial system.
- Sheikh Waqas Akram
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"The early Sufis emulated the piety of the Prophet (PBUH)."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'Integral Sufism'
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