Parliament passes four bills under 15 minutesI On Blasphemy: Rawalpindi court sentences four to death
In Focus
Government-PTI talks in trouble
On 25 January, The International News reported that National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq summoned the fourth session of the government-opposition negotiation committees on 28 January. However, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan announced that his party would not participate unless the government forms judicial commissions due to a failure to honor prior agreements. The PTI expressed frustration over the lack of progress, with Sheikh Waqas Akram criticizing the PECA Act as a “black law” suppressing freedom of expression. The opposition leaders Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz also condemned the government for restricting press freedom. Government representative Senator Irfan Siddiqui urged PTI to resume talks and termed their unpredictability as unproductive. Meanwhile, Adviser Rana Sanaullah defended the government’s negotiation efforts and emphasized structured dialogue.
On the same day, an editorial titled, “Stalled talks,” in Dawn stated that the negotiations between PTI and the ruling coalition collapsed after a raid on PTI ally Sunni Ittehad Council Chairman, Hamid Raza’s residence. PTI founder Imran Khan accused the government of ill intentions and deemed further talks futile. This is despite earlier commitments to continue discussions until the end of January. The government had pledged to respond to PTI’s demands by 28 January and urged continued dialogue. The editorial stated that Khan’s reaction despite being understandable, ignored the broader need for resolution amid provocations. Khan still demanded judicial commissions to probe key events, which the government should address to restore trust. The editorial stated that both sides must prioritize a political solution over external interference to secure Pakistan’s democratic future and avoid prolonged instability. (“Govt-opposition talks: NA speaker calls 4th meeting on 28th, PTI says won’t attend,” The International News, 25 January 2025; “Stalled talks,” Dawn, 25 January 2025)
Parliament passes four bills under 15 minutes
On 24 January, the parliament passed four bills in under 15 minutes in a joint session marked by protests by the opposition. The approved legislation include the Trade Organizations (Amendment) Bill, 2021, the Imports and Exports (Control) (Amendment) Bill, the National Institute of Technology Bill, 2024, and the National Excellence Institute Bill, 2024. The session which lasted just over 18 minutes, addressed only half of its eight-bill agenda before adjourning. The bills which were previously passed by both houses and returned by the president under Article 75(2), were considered urgent. The joint session will reconvene on 12 February to deliberate on the remaining agenda items. (Muhammad Anis, “Amid opposition uproar: Joint session passes 4 bills in less than 15 minutes,” The International News, 25 January 2025)
On Blasphemy: Rawalpindi court sentences four to death
On 24 January, four people were awarded death sentences by a court in Rawalpindi, convicting them of blasphemy. In addition to that, the four accused were also sentenced to life imprisonment for 80 years. They also have to pay a fine worth PKR 5.2 million. The Federal Investigation Agency Cyber Crime had lodged the case of blasphemy in accordance with “Section 11 of Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).” The accused were indicted for putting “blasphemous content on Facebook.” (Khalid Iqbal, “4 get death penalty for blasphemy,” The News International, 25 January 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
PM Shehbaz Sharif forms human trafficking taskforce
On 24 January, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formed a special task force to combat human trafficking and to crackdown on “human trafficking syndicates” in the country. At a review meeting that he chaired on the matter, it was revealed that six organized groups have been identified and key arrests made. He directed authorities to expedite action against smugglers and expressed sorrow over the deaths of Pakistanis in a tragic boat incident. In parallel, the Prime Minister emphasized equipping youth with modern skills during a meeting with University of London Vice Chancellor Wendy Thomson. He highlighted initiatives such as merit-based scholarships and digital hubs to align education with global demands. Furthermore, Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s focus on integrating AI into education while safeguarding human creativity. Initiatives like IT labs, SMART classrooms, and robotics programs aim to prepare youth for a tech-driven future. Additionally, they ensure that the youth thrive in evolving global landscapes. (“PM forms task force to rein in human traffickers,” The International News, 25 January 2025)
PTI’s Junaid Akbar elected unopposed as PAC chairman
On 24 January, the government and PTI reached a consensus and elected Junaid Akbar of PTI as the unopposed chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) after an 11-month delay. His nomination was proposed by PML-N Chief whip Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, and opposition leaders Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz. It was seconded by several PAC members, including Riaz Fatiana and Malik Aamir Dogar. Junaid Akbar expressed gratitude for the members’ trust and pledged to ensure the committee’s smooth functioning with full cooperation. The members including the PML-N Chief Whip, assured him of their support. The chairmanship was finalized after PTI proposed five candidates, with Akbar ultimately selected to lead the committee. (“PTI’s Junaid Akbar elected PAC chairman unopposed,” The International News, 25 January 2025)
Reversing of 26th constitutional amendment will not be accepted, says Bilawal Bhutto
On 24 January, speaking to the media outside the Parliament, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto stated that overturning of 26th constitutional amendment could only be done under the discretion of parliament. On 27 January, the constitutional bench is set to review petitions against the 26th amendment. Further, he informed that any other institution attempting to reverse the amendment would not be accepted. When asked about his proposed visit to the US, he mentioned that it was an unofficial visit. He further clarified that PPP would not be a part of the cabinet; however, he hopes that PM Sharif would be able to complete his full tenure. He further stated that prior to passing of Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, discussions with “media representatives and digital media experts” should have been held. He suggested that the government must take everyone on board prior to key decisions so that execution of those decisions could be done smoothly. (“Bilawal warns against overturning 26th amendment outside Parliament,” The Express Tribune, 25 January 2025)
On controversial cybercrime bill PECA: “The repeated attempts by the government to gag the press, silence the electronic media and cull social media platforms is an outcome of its incapacity to sell a political narrative of its own,” says an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 25 January, an editorial titled, “Culling freedoms,” in The Express Tribune stated that the proposed “Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025” has drawn widespread criticism for its harsh curbs on free speech, particularly targeting media and social platforms. The amendment introduced Section 26(A), penalizing alleged “fake news” with fines up to PKR 2 million or three years of imprisonment. The editorial stated that the bill violatesArticle 19 of the Constitution and reflects the government’s inability to engage dissenting voices democratically. The journalist bodies, civil society, and political allies like JUI-F have condemned the bill as an assault on fundamental rights. The editorial also stated that with the lower house bulldozing the bill, calls are growing for the Senate to revise it and foster consensus among all stakeholders to uphold democratic principles. (“Culling freedoms,” The Express Tribune, 25 January 2025)
ECONOMY
Prioritize reforms for better economic development, says World Bank
On 25 January, Dawn reported that the World Bank’s Vice President for South Asia, Martin Raiser, stressed the need for Pakistan to adopt wide-ranging reforms in energy, water, and revenue sectors. This is to address longstanding challenges and foster economic stability. He further highlighted the lack of systemic governance and delayed reforms. Raiser also urged for better system planning, renewable energy expansion, and investments in infrastructure to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. He emphasized the sanctity of contracts to maintain investor trust and proposed digitalizing the taxation system to improve revenue and service efficiency. He also underscored the importance of climate adaptation funding and mechanisms like carbon pricing to support climate-affected nations. On the topic of social protection, Raiser recommended harmonizing federal and provincial programs and cutting subsidies to focus on human development. Raiser concluded: “There is no alternative to dealing with underlying issues of improved system governance, better system planning and investments in a targeted manner.” (Khaleeq Kiani, “World Bank wants Pakistan to do more to put house in order,” Dawn, 25 January 2025)
Pakistan’s inflation eases with SPI rising only 0.52 per cent
On 25 January, The International News reported that Pakistan’s inflation has eased, with the Sensitive Price Index (SPI) rising only 0.52 per cent year-on-year for the week ending 23 January. This is the lowest inflation rate since October 2014. This marks the fourth consecutive week of declining inflation from 5.08 per cent in late December 2024. Economists predict January’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) might drop below 3 per cent and potentially reach 2.5 per cent compared to 4.1 per cent in December. The SPI decrease has fueled speculation of a 1.5 per cent point policy rate cut from the current 13 per cent when the State Bank of Pakistan meets on 27 January. The essential goods like tomatoes, onions, and eggs saw notable price drops. Meanwhile, items such as sugar and bananas saw slight increases. The analysts warned that sustainable price stability requires structural reforms and better supply chain management to avoid future economic stress. (“Policy rate cut hopes rise as weekly inflation hits decade’s low,” The International News, 25 January 2025)
On utility store closure: “Shutting down loss-making entities is a financially viable idea but the government’s current plan has a lot of loopholes,” says an editorial in The International News
On 25 January, an editorial titled, “Subsidised lives,” in The International News stated that the government plans to shut down utility stores nationwide as part of efforts to curb losses under International Monetary Fund (IMF) scrutiny. A high-level committee, led by the industries and production minister and officials from finance and IT ministries will submit a closure strategy within seven days. There are approximately 3,800 Utility Stores Corporation (USC) whose employees face uncertainty with options to transfer them to surplus pools or fill vacancies. Furthermore, there are concerns over distributing the Ramazan package through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), which excludes many middle-class households struggling with inflation. The editorial stated that a proposed solution involved partnering with kiryana stores (general stores) via public-private collaboration. This will allow discounted rates for low-income earners. The editorial further stated that the utility store employees could oversee operations to ensure fairness. This will protect thousands reliant on affordable essentials amid low wages and economic hardship. (“Subsidised lives,” The International News, 25 January 2025)
SECURITY
Kurram: Fifth aid convoy arrives, since signing of peace accord
On 24 January, an aid convoy carrying necessary items and medicinal supplies arrived in violence -stricken district of Kurram. Post the signing of the ceasefire agreement by the warring parties in Kurram, four aid convoys have travelled towards Kurram. The aid convoy is used to fetch “fruits, vegetables, ghee, sugar, chicken, egg”, etc to the region. Roads towards Kurram remained non-operational for several months after an assault on a Shia convoy in November 2024. This had resulted in scarcity of food and medicines in Kurram. Assistant Commissioner Afrasiab Zubair Hindal confirmed that medicines were being transported to Kurram using helicopter. Also, residents who are seeking urgent medical care were shifted to Peshawar and various other cities. Residents of Kurram have put forward their demand in front of the government to put an end to the Thall-Parachinar road closure. Also, students hailing from Parachinar have threatened to go on protests if road closure did not end immediately. Some students have asserted that they were unable to travel to international and local educational institutes from where they had received admission offers because of road closure. (Javid Hussain, “Another aid convoy reaches Kurram,” Dawn, 25 January 2025)
Balochistan: Several leaders of Baloch terror groups surrender arms
On 24 January, The Express Tribune reported that leaders of a number of terrorist organizations operating in Balochistan have given up their arms and vowed adherence to the state. One such surrendered militant alleged that foreign agencies do not care about the independence of Balochistan and only want to create instability in Pakistan. He condemned Balochistan separatist leaders for staying in foreign countries and leading extravagant lives. He further stated that those militants operating in mountains are unable to get two square meals a day. Balochistan Minister Zahoor Ahmad Buledi criticized the abuse of vulnerable youth. He said “A heinous game of terrorism is being played in Balochistan. The handlers of these militants lure innocent children with false promises and take them to the mountains.” He further stated that the door was open for militants who wanted to give up arms. (“Baloch militants surrender, reveal foreign backing to destabalise Pakistan,” The Express Tribune, 24 January 2025)
On rising cases of kidnapping in Karachi: “Cops have continually failed to protect most vulnerable citizens” says an editorial in The Express Tribune
On 25 January, an editorial in The Express Tribune titled “Children’s kidnappings” discussed the failure of police to prevent cases of child abductions in Karachi. The editorial mentioned the recent mishap in which three children were abducted and the dead body of one of the children was retrieved. The editorial highlighted that the police have been unable to ensure security of vulnerable sections of the population. The editorial mentioned that the Chief Minister and Home Minister of Sindh have at last accepted that the problem of kidnapping is serious. The editorial argued that response from the government to stop incidents of kidnapping through “increased patrolling” has been ineffective. The editorial contended that increased frequency of patrolling would only be fruitful if police focuses on collecting “better intelligence” through it. The editorial suggested that the government must work in the direction towards enhancing the ability of parents so that they can keep a track of where their children are. The editorial also calls for “community policing” through which children could be kept safe from vicious strangers. (“Children’s kidnappings,” The Express Tribune, 25 January 2025)
PROVINCES
KP government introduces legislation for levying tax on agriculture produce
On 24 January, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government put forward a proposed legislation in the provincial assembly which would result in levying tax on earnings generated from agricultural production. The bill termed as “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agricultural Income Tax Bill 2025” was introduced by Law Minister Aftab Alam. As per the bill, 15 per cent tax would be levied on yearly earnings ranging between PKR 16 to PKR 32 lakhs. 20 per cent tax would be imposed on earnings between PKR 12 to PKR 16 lakh per annum while 30 per cent tax would be levied when the incomes are in range of PKR 32 to PKR 56 lakh per annum. Earnings above 56 lakh would be liable for 40 per cent of tax. A “super tax” would be levied on rich landowners whose annual income exceeds PKR 150 million. Six other bills were also put forward in the assembly. One of the bills termed as “KP Employees Termination Bill 2025,” which if passed, would result in discharging of 16000 employees who were recruited at the time of the last interim government. (Gulzar Muhammad Khan, “KP govt tables bill to impose tax on agri income,” The News International, 25 January 2025)
EXTERNAL
Finance Minister enumerates achievements of IT industry at World Economic Forum
On 23 January, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb enumerated Pakistan’s advancement in Information Technology while attending a discussion on “Role of New Technologies in Promoting Trade and Investment” held at World Economic Forum. He stated that Pakistan has the third highest number of freelancers in the world. Further, he boasted Pakistan for being the first country to introduce the “Digital Foreign Direct Investment Initiative.” He conveyed that there were ongoing discussions with “stakeholders” of the IT industry to encourage the growth of “digital infrastructure, digital adoption and new digital services.” He informed that exports of IT industry were at an all time high in the month of December touching USD 384 million. He was hopeful that partnering with the Digital Cooperation Organization would further enhance the IT industry. He further informed that “special technology zones” would be made functional and the private sector would play an important role in Pakistan's economic growth by generating more jobs in the market. (“Aurangzeb showcases IT sector’s potential at World Economic Forum,” Dawn, 24 January 2025)
MIDDLE EAST VIEW
On reports of violence in West Bank: “Israel has a problem with all Palestinians, regardless of their political affiliations” alleges an editorial in Dawn
On 25 January, an editorial titled “West Bank’s turn” discussed the alleged atrocities committed by Israeli authorities in the West Bank. The editorial claimed that following the ceasefire in Gaza, Israel is looking to suppress Palestinian population settled in other parts. The editorial highlighted that the people living in Jenin refugee camp have been forced to leave. The editorial pointed out the alleged double standards of Israel as it has continually blamed Hamas for the violence in the region. However, the West Bank does not have the presence of Hamas and is governed by Fatah. The editorial noted how the truce in Gaza would not result in peace in the region. It argued that ruling political leaders of Israel are not interested in “peacemaking.” The editorial mentioned the possibility of Israel annexing the West Bank with the support from the Trump government. The editorial predicted that “multi-front” war would soon recommence again. (“West Bank’s turn,” Dawn, 25 January 2025)
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PTI's attitude is not one of negotiation, demands are not accepted by force.
Rana Sanaullah
- PMLN Digital
To stand with Khan, we have endured all oppression, oppression, fascism, and will continue to do so. We were not afraid before, nor can anyone bow down now, by the grace and mercy of Allah. You have not benefited from these useless raids before, nor will you now.
Eman Tahir
- PTI
The PML-N remembers that Malik Riaz is corrupt, but it doesn't remember why the Hyde Park deal was made with this corrupt businessman. I remember Malik Riaz brought back the money during Imran Khan's tenure, but I don't remember why Mian Sahib met Ishaq Dar's sons in Dubai upon his return from London.
Ahmed Januja
- PTI
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"The government is all-powerful — judge, jury and executioner — when it comes to content on social media."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'Throttling free speech.'
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