JI chief to protest nationwide against hike in electricity prices I Federal workforce shows gender imbalance
In Focus
Government declines to address PTI demands publicly
On 26 January, the government declined to address Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) demands. This included the demand for the constitution of judicial commissions before the deadline of 28 January where the PTI had cited an agreed seven-day response timeline. The government’s negotiation spokesperson, Senator Irfan Siddiqui stated they would provide written replies in the next meeting scheduled to be held on 28 January and emphasized: “We are not ready to be ridiculed (by announcing our replies publicly or before the media).” However, PTI abandoned talks due to delays and alleged insincerity in establishing judicial commissions to investigate the 9 May and 26 November protests. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan indicated a willingness to resume dialogue if terms of reference for the commissions were discussed. Meanwhile, PTI demanded an immediate, impartial appointment of a new chief election commissioner to restore the Election Commission’s credibility. (Syed Irfan Raza and Ikram Junaidi, “Govt promises PTI written response by tomorrow,” Dawn, 27 January 2025; “Govt, PTI bicker over judicial commission as talks face uncertainty,” The International News, 27 January 2025)
JI chief to protest nationwide against hike in electricity prices
On 26 January, in a press conference, Jamaat-i-Islami(JI) head Hafiz Naeemur Rehman called for a nationwide protest against the increase in electricity prices. The protest is scheduled to be held on 31 January. He said “JI is going to renew its agitation campaign against the government with more force and resolute.” He claimed it was pressure from the JI that had resulted in the government reworking agreements with many of the Independent Power Producers (IPPs). JI, however, alleged that the public had not incurred benefits of the renegotiations. JI chief demanded that the government must bring down the electricity rates and alter its policies so that it benefits the poor. . He also criticized the political parties that have approved the proposed hike in salaries of parliamentarians. He pointed out that the hike is being initiated without considering that 40 per cent of Pakistan’s population is still below the poverty line. He also voiced his opposition to amendments to PECA stating that political disagreement should not be subdued in a “fascist manner.” (“Jamaat-i-Islami announces another protest against high power bills,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
Federal workforce shows gender imbalance
On 27 January, Dawn reported that the federal government reported 292,009 vacant positions as of FY 2022-23, with 150000 posts abolished in a recent IMF-driven “rightsizing” initiative. Out of the 1.2 million sanctioned posts, only 947610 are filled which leaves a 17 per cent vacancy rate. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) exceeded its population-based quota, holding 32.5 per cent of federal jobs, compared to Punjab’s 46 per cent falling short of its 53 per cent population share. Sindh and Balochistan remained underrepresented with 13.8 per cent and 4.99 per cent shares respectively. Female employees accounted for just 5.11 per cent of the workforce, translating to a 1:19 female-to-male ratio. Women held 22.2 per cent of officer-level posts in Grades 17 to 22, while the remaining share was in lower grades. The Interior Division, primarily due to the Civil Armed Forces, employed 42.83 per cent of federal workers, followed by the Defence Division at 22.77 per cent. The report also highlighted shifts in grade-level employment, with Grades 17 to 22 seeing a 4 per cent increase in actual working strength over the previous year. (Khaleeq Kiani, “150,000 federal posts vacant after rightsizing,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
Joint Action Committee writes to Senate Standing Committee on PECA amendments
On 27 January, The News International reported on the Joint Action Committee (JAC)’s letter to Daisal Saleem Rahman who is the chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Interior. JAC has asked the senate committee to pay heed to their concerns regarding the “proposed amendment to Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).” It stated “We urge you to give the representatives of JAC a hearing before the committee debates the amendment bill. We would like to put up serious concerns on certain aspects of the bill.” JAC consists of the Federal Union of Journalists, Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors, Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors, All Pakistan Newspapers Society and Pakistan Broadcasters Association. JAC in the letter pointed out that amendment to PECA is brought about in absence of any discussion with the concerned stakeholders. JAC stated that this would eventually result in trust deficit and raise suspicion about the actual purpose of the amendment. Further, JAC mentioned that it expects amendments like these must be drafted by discussing it with all the concerned stakeholders. (“JAC wants its concerns about Peca changes heard by Senate panel,” The News International, 27 January 2025)
Women voted differently than men in 18 per cent areas in 2024 Geneal Elections: FAFEN report
On 26 January, a Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) report revealed that in Pakistan’s 2024 general elections, women voters in 18 per cent of communities chose winners different from their male counterparts. This divergence was more pronounced in urban areas compared to rural ones. The analysis based on 42804 polling stations in 21188 communities showed alignment in 82 per cent of communities, where male and female voters selected the same winner. PTI gained the most female support in 32 per cent of divergent communities, followed by 26 per cent for PML-N and 18 per cent for PPP. The regional trends highlighted PML-N’s dominance in Punjab and PPP’s in Sindh, while PTI maintained broad national appeal. Female polling station results directly influenced outcomes in seven constituencies, including NA-128 Lahore and NA-163 Bahawalnagar. Islamabad recorded the highest divergence at 37 per cent, while KP showed the least at 13 per cent. Fafen emphasized the growing impact of women’s votes on electoral outcomes. (Irfan Sadozai, “Women’s voting choice in 2024 elections differed from men in 18pc areas: Fafen,” Dawn, 26 January 2025)
Government involvement in GBP 190m repatriation settlement raises questions
On 27 January, The International News reported that the GBP 190 million settlement between the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and a prominent property tycoon has brought the Imran Khan government’s involvement under scrutiny. Despite public claims of non-involvement, a confidentiality deed signed by the head of the Asset Recovery Unit (ARU), Shahzad Akbar revealed the government’s direct role. The deed ensured secrecy over the Framework Agreement, linking the settlement terms to the Supreme Court registrar’s account and barring disclosures without mutual consent. The clauses within the deed show that the government committed to safeguarding agreement details, even as Akbar frequently travelled to the UK during key moments of the NCA investigation. The records also revealed that Khan’s administration approved the tycoon’s travel abroad 20 times, despite his placement on the Exit Control List. This involvement raised questions about the government’s active facilitation. Shahzad Akbar and officials from subsequent governments have yet to provide clear answers regarding their roles in this high-profile case. ( Fakhar Durrani, “Finally, confidentiality document is out: Deed exposes Imran govt’s involvement in £190m deal,” The International News,, 27 January 2025)
ECONOMY
On the need of urgent economic reforms, “Inconsistent and poor economic policies of the past have had an adverse impact on living standards, businesses and the environment,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 27 January, an editorial titled, “World Bank’s view,” in Dawn stated that Pakistan is at a critical juncture due to the consequences of inconsistent economic policies that have worsened living standards, strained businesses, and impacted the environment. The ruling elite’s resistance to reform has deepened structural crises, leaving the nation lagging behind its peers. The World Bank has committed USD 20 billion in development aid over the next decade. Furthermore, it has urged reforms in energy, water, and fiscal policies to drive growth and alleviate poverty. The Bank’s Vice President for South Asia, Martin Raiser has also emphasized the necessity of policy shifts to reduce fiscal deficits and improve public services. Other creditors have echoed these calls and highlighted lessons from nations like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, which leveraged crises to attract foreign investments and boost growth. The editorial stated that for Pakistan, abandoning outdated policies and embracing reform is vital to ensure long-term prosperity and economic stability. It further stated that ambivalence will only prolong the current challenges. (“World Bank’s view,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
ENVIRONMENT
On climate change impacting education “climate disruptions are no longer seasonal inconveniences but structural challenges to education systems” says an editorial in Dawn
On 27 January, an editorial in Dawn titled “Learning losses” discussed how the effects of climate change are causing disruptions in education. The editorial highlighted how 128 million students in Asia remained out of schools due to soaring temperatures in the summer months. The editorial cited a report which highlighted that education of one out of seven students was disrupted due to the effects of climate change. The editorial pointed out how education has been the prime hope of the Asian population to come out of poverty. The editorial highlighted that when the temperature in summer months rises, schools turn into “hothouses.” The editorial pointed out that disruption in education because of climate change has resulted in rise of child marriage cases in South Asian countries. The editorial suggested that combating the effects of climate change must go beyond installing air conditioners in classrooms. The editorial called for climate change proof architecture, enhanced distance learning systems and equipping teachers with climate education. (“Learning losses,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
SOCIETY
NTISB warns against risky browser extensions
On 27 January, Dawn reported that the National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has flagged 16 browser extensions, including AI and VPN tools for potential hacking and data breach threats. The extensions like AI Assistant (ChatGPT, Bard AI Chat Extension), and VPNCity were identified as vulnerable. They can potentially expose users’ data from social media, banking apps, and websites. Unlike apps, extensions operate solely within browsers but often require extensive permissions, heightening security risks. In particular, free extensions pose greater threats due to limited revenue generation models, making them susceptible to exploitation. A recent large-scale attack compromised 35 extensions, affecting over 2.6 million users with malicious versions distributed through official platforms like the Chrome Web Store. The experts, including Simon Migliano of Top10VPN, warned that 88 per cent of free VPNs leak user data and often monetize it through third parties. NTISB advised users to opt for trusted, regularly updated extensions, scrutinize permissions, and remove unnecessary tools to safeguard personal information. (Abdul Moiz Malik, “Internet users asked to avoid malicious VPN, AI extensions,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
On Pakistan’s overburdened prison system, “The slow-moving justice system continues to add to the burden, as an increasing number of cases remain pending in courts,” says an editorial in The International News
On 27 January, an editorial titled, “Prison reforms,” in The International News stated that Pakistan’s prisons are overcrowded and have failed to rehabilitate offenders, especially those involved in minor crimes. Some jails operate at over 300 per cent capacity where 73.41 per cent of inmates are under-trial prisoners, far exceeding the global average of 27 per cent. Sindh leads in under-trial detainees, while Punjab houses 68 per cent of over 23,000 drug-related offenders. A sluggish justice system compounds these issues, leaving cases unresolved for years. The efforts of Chief Justice Yahya Afridi’s session on jail reform remain largely unfulfilled. The cultural perceptions that view criminals as irredeemable obstruct meaningful change. The editorial stated that introducing alternatives like electronic monitoring for under-trial prisoners, restorative justice mechanisms, and socio-economic reforms could ease overcrowding and foster rehabilitation. The editorial further stated that Pakistan’s prisons must shift from punitive measures to providing second chances, addressing root causes of crime and helping offenders reintegrate into society for a safer and more just future. (“Prison reforms,” The International News, 27 January 2025)
PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
“AJK” legislative assembly speaker’s convoy headed for Kakliyot attacked
On 26 January, a convoy in which the speaker of “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” legislative assembly Latif Akbar was travelling was attacked. The assault resulted in wounding three members of PPP who were traveling in the convoy. The convoy was heading towards Kakliyot. A ceremony was scheduled to be held in Kakliyot for welcoming a number of “activists” associated with Muslim Conference in PPP. Member of “local district council” named Raja Amir Zafar had earlier warned outsiders to not come inside the village. This had resulted in delaying the ceremony for several months. A staff member of the “AJK” speaker alleged that the district administration did not ensure proper security arrangements in spite of giving a “reminder.” Latif Akbar has yet again conveyed to the administration about a possible tumult in the region. Deputy Commissioner, additional superintendent of police and several other senior officers reached the location of attack, however, firing continued to go on. As a result, the convoy remained stuck for five hours. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto issued condemnation against the attack and called for the arrest of the culprits. (Tariq Naqash, “Three PPP workers injured in firing on AJK speaker’s convoy,” Dawn, 26 January 2025)
Demonstrations held in “AJK” against India’s alleged suppression of human rights in J&K
On 26 January, residents of “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” demonstrated against India’s alleged subduing of “democratic rights” of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. In Muzaffarabad, a protest was held which was led by the “public sector Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Cell” and migrants who came after 1989. The protesters have put forward a resolution in the United Nations Observer’s office alleging India’s “war crimes” in Jammu and Kashmir. Demonstrators set fire to an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also ripped apart an Indian flag. Latif Akbar, speaker of “AJK” legislative assembly called for countering India with “equal force” so that it is compelled to discuss the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. He requested President Zardari and PM Sharif to come to “AJK” on the occasion of “Kashmir Solidarity Day” which is observed on 5 February every year. He further stated that “We need to transform AJK into a true base camp for the liberation of occupied Jammu and Kashmir.” (Tariq Naqash, “Kashmiris hold protests on India’s Republic Day,” Dawn, 27 January 2025)
WORLD VIEW
On Trump’s crackdown on immigrants, “Immigrants from around the world have made the US what it is today,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 27 January, an editorial titled, “Trumpian purge,” in Dawn stated that Donald Trump, upon re-entering the White House, has initiated measures targeting migrants, including undocumented individuals and some with legal status. The crackdown is labeled as the “largest massive deportation operation in history.” It includes a stricter version of the 2017 Muslim travel ban and freezes on asylum and refugee programmes, leaving 25,000 Afghan applicants in Pakistan in limbo. The foreign students supporting Palestine now risk deportation. Furthermore, Trump’s selective approval of migrants, favoring Norwegians over Haitians and Salvadorans, highlighted racial and religious biases. The editorial argued that these policies will intensify xenophobia, ignoring the vital contributions immigrants have made to the US. The editorial stated that Trump’s actions echo historical exclusionary measures, like the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act. It further stated that this showcases a troubling shift toward policies that marginalize certain groups while claiming to restore America’s “greatness.” (“Trumpian purge,” Dawn, 27 January)
INDIA VIEW
On the alleged silence of international community on dispute over Jammu and Kashmir “refusal to fully acknowledge the plight of Kashmiris under occupation has been largely due to global geopolitical considerations” claims an editorial in The News International
On 27 January, an editorial in The News International titled “Solidarity with Kashmir” discussed the muted response of the international community on India’s alleged atrocities in Jammu and Kashmir. The editorial highlighted how the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir has molded Pakistan’s foreign policy over the years. The editorial criticized the international community for remaining silent on the alleged atrocities committed by the Indian government against the residents of Kashmir. The editorial claimed that the silence of the international community is due to strong economic relations with India. The editorial criticized the international community for giving priority to “strategic interests” over “human rights.” The editorial acknowledged that Pakistan’s continual attempts to highlight the issue in the international arena has not garnered any concrete support. The editorial opined that repealing article 370 has resulted in disruptions in India-Pakistan relations. The editorial also claimed that by repealing article 370, India has sabotaged possible future discussion over the issue. (“Solidarity with Kashmir,” The News International, 27 January 2025)
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PTI will observe Black Day on February 8. 60% of our petitions have been filed. The Election Commission has not given specific dates for the past one year. We have given written talks, but despite this, the government is not serious because the government does not have the authority. Sahibzada Hamid Raza's house was visited by a member of the negotiation team.
Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar
- PTI
We boycotted the talks on May 9 and November 26 when the commission was not formed, we will not participate in the negotiation meeting to be held on January 28, consultations are underway on the name of the Chief Election Commission
Omar Ayub Khan
- PTI
China was angry with us for damaging the CPEC agreement during Imran Niazi's government
Syed Kausar Kazmi
- PMLN Digital
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"In seeking maternal health services, rural Pakistani women encounter sociocultural and geographical challenges."
- An opinion in Dawn, 'Stark inequalities.'
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