National Assembly clears three anti-human trafficking bills I At the OIC special meeting, Pakistan calls for the right to self-determination in J&K and Palestine
In Focus
15 per cent plus increase in textile exports in January
On 18 February, Dawn reported that the textile exports have risen by 15.85 per cent in January 2025. In monetary terms, the exports have risen to USD 1.68 billion in January 2025 from USD 1.45 billion as compared to the same month last year. Further, in the first seven months of the 2025 fiscal, the total exports in the textile sector rose by 10.6 per cent reaching USD 10.77 billion compared to USD 9.74 billion in the same period last year. Earlier, traders had projected that the growth would be back in double-digits owing to disruption in supply from Bangladesh. An article in The News International highlighted that the growth was led by finished goods such as bed exports, cotton cloth, towels, knitwear and readymade garments. In contrast, the export of raw materials declined as cotton yarn exports fell by 19.9 per cent and raw cotton exports to zero as highlighted by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data. (Mubarak Zeb Khan, “Textile exports surge 16pc,” Dawn, 18 February 2025; Israr Khan, “Textile exports surge 15.85% in January,” The News International, 18 February 2025)
National Assembly clears three anti-human trafficking bills
On 17 February, the lower house cleared three bills linked to the prevention of human trafficking. Three bills were moved by Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, namely, the Emigration (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons (Amendment) Bill 2025. These bills were tabled in view of the recent deaths of Pakistani nationals trying to reach other countries via illegal channels. In this regard, amendments have been made to the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2018, Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants Act 2018 and the Emigration Ordinance 1979. They entail an increase in penalties and the trial of offenders in the sessions court instead of the magistrate court. The minister also highlighted that the government has launched measures to crackdown on human trafficking and many have been arrested in the process. Furthermore, he lamented the protests against the bill carried out by the opposition. He said: “These bills have been passed for a noble cause with no politics involved as startling disclosures have been made during investigations.” (Muhammad Anis, “NA passes bills to curb human trafficking,” The News International, 18 February 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
Senate passes bill to raise salaries of MNAs; defers SBP amendment bill
On 17 February, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) Senator Mohsin Aziz proposed an increase in the minimum credit limit of commercial banks in every province. The bill called for the minimum credit limit to be no less than 60 per cent of its total deposits collected from the respective province. However, it was met with opposition from the Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervaiz Malij and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar. They were of the view that the bill sought to amend the State Bank of Pakistan Act without the federal government’s approval under Article 74 of the constitution. But Aziz asserted that it was not a money bill as it aimed to help private businesses in smaller provinces. He highlighted that it would neither have any implications for the federal consolidated fund nor would it necessitate a single penny from the national kitty. In this regard, the Senators voted on the bill as the opposition called for its deferment. Interestingly, it received favor from two Pakistan People’s Party and one Pakistan Muslim League (N) senators who are parties in the ruling coalition. Besides, the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), the Jamiat-e-Ulema-e-Islami (F) and the Awami National Party also voted in its favor. Nevertheless, the opposition continued to protest the bill as it was a matter that fell under the constitutional domain and not a provincial issue. Subsequently, the bill was deferred as the opposition demanded the vote results.
Additionally, the Senate passed the Members of Parliament (Salaries and Allowances) (Amendment) Bill, 2025. While the bill was passed in the Senate, it underwent a minor alteration in the National Assembly. The members of the National Assembly witnessed a salary hike from PKR 200,000 million to PKR 519,000 million. In this regard, senators will be allowed to draw PKR 500,000 monthly salary as the finance committees of the two houses will be given the freedom to decide over the salaries of legislative members. However, it was met with opposition from some members of the PTI. When party leader Shibli Faraz was contacted, he stated that such a law must be implemented on a consistent basis by taking everyone into account. He further highlighted Imran Khan’s views on the same. The PTI founder did not support such actions, instead relief must be provided to the public, he added. (Ifthikar A Khan, “Senate sees uproar after result of vote on SBP bill ‘withheld’,” Dawn, 18 February 2025; “Senate also passes bill to raise MPs salaries” The News International, 18 February 2025)
On hike in NEPRA salaries: “This case is a test of the government’s commitment to accountability,” suggestes an editorial in The Nation
On 18 February, an editorial titled “NEPRA Salaries,” in The Nation discussed the recent decision of the National Electricity Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to hike salaries without federal approval. The editorial highlighted that this has sent “shockwaves” across the bureaucratic circles of Pakistan as the institution has not only failed to maintain stable power supply and fiscal viability but is now engaging in “blatant” acts of self-service. However, the editorial pointed out that this is not an isolated incident as the NEPRA’s officials have been compensated in excess, compared to the average employee in Pakistan who earns less than the minimum wage. Moreover, these officials also enjoy other benefits in the form of allowancesand rent among others. In this regard, the editorial remarked that such hikes are not justified as it has circumvented the cabinet’s authority, defrauded the taxpayer and let down the public. Hence, such people sitting in high ranks must be dismissed, be revealed to the public and investigated in order to overcome the entrenched corruption that weakens the institutions and public trust. This development also serves as a test for the government’s “commitment to accountability” as bureaucrats often walk away scot-free. (“NEPRA Salaries,” The Nation, 18 February 2025)
JUDICIARY
PTI urges judiciary to address 8 February elections and 26th Amendment; seeks revival of backchannels with the establishment
On 17 February, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s (PTI) lawyers urged the judiciary to speed its proceedings in cases linked to the alleged 8 February election rigging and the 26th Amendment. During a press conference held in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, they highlighted that these cases remain unaddressed despite the completion of a year. In his statement, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reflected on how the superior courts, lawyers and relevant entities have criticized the 26th Amendment act. He also revealed that it was for this reason that the PTI did not attend the Judicial Commission of Pakistan. He claimed that 74 petitions have been filed by the party against the probable rigging of the election. Along with Barrister Gohar, National Assembly leader noted how Imran Khan was incarcerated for about 20 months and called for his release along with other PTI figures such as Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed, Hassan Niaz among others. Salman Akram Raja who challenged the election in Lahore and filed a petition remarked that it was unfortunate that only two tribunals had taken up the cases in Punjab.
In a separate development, the former Minister of Information, Fawad Chaudhry suggested that the current leadership of the PTI had been “planted” by certain entities as they were not interested in the release of Imran Khan. He said: “Earlier, we doubted the capacity of the current PTI leadership, but now it has been proven that they are planted by the establishment and would never allow Imran Khan to come out of jail.” Moreover, a source reported by The News International claimed that the PTI is looking to revive backchannel talks with the establishment. They suggested that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur is a key figure in this as he is using his connections to restart the dialogue. On the contrary, the military has emphasized it will not partake in any such “political discussions.” Further, Army Chief General Asim Munir has also dismissed claims that Imran Khan has sent letters to the military. These denials follow an earlier meeting between PTI leaders Ali Amin Gandapur and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and General Munir which was later described as one concerning security matters. (Ikram Junaidi, “PTI wants courts to expedite 26th amendment, rigging cases,” Dawn, 18 February 2025; Ansar Abbasi, “PTI again seeking backchannel talks with establishment,” The News International, 18 February 2025)
ECONOMY
PM Sharif welcomes USD 40 billion investment under Country Partnership Framework
On 17 February, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan’s priorities lay in investment and partnerships and not in loans during a meeting with a World Bank (WB) team of executive directors. According to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office the PM was quoted saying: “The country’s economy is on the right path and is moving towards growth.” He highlighted the macroeconomic indicators that showcase favorable results. Some of this was possible through reforms such as the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and key development projects supported by the World Bank. He further claimed that the government is currently prioritizing reforms to digitize the Federal Board of Revenue while simultaneously ensuring that the energy sector reduces losses and provides uninterrupted power supply.
Speaking on the USD 40 billion investment from the WB, he expressed appreciation of the international money lenders’ confidence in the government’s initiatives. He remarked that it would greatly benefit the country’ progress as a USD 20 billion allocation will be utilized in projects related to education, youth development, health and other social sectors. The remaining amount will be disbursed via the private sector to encourage economic growth. On the other hand, the delegation acknowledged and praised the government for the positive outcomes in its reform initiatives, the press release disclosed. The delegation also praised the government efforts towards reforms in the industry, exports, energy, privatization, taxation and other sectors. In the meantime, Pakistan is also preparing for a visit from an IMF delegation to review the current tranche and the next tranche of the USD 7 billion programme. (“Not loans but investment our priority, says PM,” The News International, 18 February 2025; “PM Shehbaz welcomes $40b World Bank investment,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2025)
SOCIETY
On the Right to information: “Citizens’ right to information is routinely sidelined,” says an editorial in Dawn
On 18 February, an editorial titled “Right to know,” in Dawn cited the recent report from the Free And Fair Election Network (FAFEN) that highlighted that federal institutions reveal only 42 per cent of information that they are legally obligated to disclose. Despite having “well-crafted” laws under the Right to Information (RTI), there is a “culture of secrecy” stemming from bureaucratic inertia. In this regard, FAFEN has provided a set of reforms to remove loopholes that allow ministers to use discretionary powers over classified information and exploit broad exemptions. However, the issues are not just limited to these factors as the Information Commission suffers on two aspects. The first one being the absence of authority to enforce strict action against those entities that are non-compliant and the second reason is a “serious conflict of interest.” What should have been a “watchdog institution” has transformed into a “retirement home for bureaucrats.” Instead of fulfilling their duties under the RTI, they are busy succumbing to officials for their own personal gain. Hence, the FAFEN provided a set of suggestions ranging from greater autonomy to the commission to fiscal independence. However, within the short term, it would be desirable to appoint two information commissioners from the civil society instead of the government. Besides, a performance evaluation must be held to hold commissioners accountable and technology must be integrated “to bridge the gap between policy and practice.” (“Right to know,” Dawn, 18 February 2025)
ENVIRONMENT
On the necessity to address the problem of climate change: “it seems that the more alarming the signs and impact of climate change get, the more determined the countries are becoming to ignore them,” argues an editorial in The News International
On 18 February, an editorial in The News International titled “Climate deadline” discussed reluctance of western countries in taking proactive steps to combat the threat of climate change. The reluctance and ignorance towards the problem of climate change has further surged after US’s withdrawal from Paris climate agreement. The editorial mentioned how only 10 out of a total of 200 countries submitted their plans on time about how they would go ahead in cutting down their own carbon emissions. The editorial highlighted that the US was one of the 10 countries along with Brazil and the UK that submitted their proposed plans to reduce carbon emissions before the deadline. However, the editorial noted that since the commitment was made by the previous Biden administration, it cannot be taken seriously. The editorial reminded how 2024 was recorded as the “hottest year” on the planet and January 2025 was recorded as the hottest month, emphasizing the need to cut down carbon emissions. The editorial pointed out how other countries are now reluctant to reduce their share of carbon emissions and are non-serious about the threat of climate change, as the largest per capita carbon emitter, the US, refuses to acknowledge climate change as being a real problem. The editorial further blamed the western countries and instead appreciated China for steadily moving towards adoption of “renewable energy.” It further pointed out how countries like Pakistan can just watch in silence while the countries which are really responsible for climate change ignore their responsibility. (“Climate deadline,” The News International, 18 February 2025)
SECURITY
KP government embarks on operation to root out militants after a series of attacks in Kurram
On 17 February, an aid convoy travelling on Thall-Parachinar road came under gun attack in Lower Kurram. Security forces that were with the aid convoy responded by opening fire back at them. The exchange of fire went on for more than two hours. The clash resulted in the killing of a soldier in the army. Seven others traveling with the convoy were wounded. This was followed by another assault in which security forces were attempting to prevent the militants who were ransacking the trucks in the aid convoy. The militants fired upon Frontier Corps’ (FC) vehicle. Five FC personnel were wounded. Following this, “FC’s Quick Response force” which was sent to extract the wounded soldiers also came under gun attack. The attack led to the killing of four FC personnel. There were also reports of aid convoy trucks coming under attack from the local residents. A truck driver in the aid convoy alleged that calls went out from mosques urging people to assault the aid convoy vehicles. After this series of attacks KP spokesman Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif informed that the provincial government has initiated an operation to root out the militants from the region. He further informed that the local residents would be moved out of the region before the security forces engage in the operation. Criticizing the role of tribal elders, he said “the peace committees have failed to stop miscreants. Tribal elders should have handed over miscreants to the government.” (Javed Hussain and Umer Farooq, “KP plans fresh op after Kurram convoy attacks,” Dawn, 18 February 2025)
PAKISTAN OCCUPIED KASHMIR
Gilgit-Baltistan: High-level committee to be constituted to look into protests against Diamer-Bhasha dam
On 17 February, federal government announced that it would formulate a “high-level committee” to look into the demands raised by local residents who are demonstrating against Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). The local residents are accusing WAPDA for not providing the remuneration in exchange for the land they had given up so that Diamer-Bhasha dam can be constructed. The protesters have threatened to halt the construction of the dam if their concerns are ignored. The demonstrators are demanding remuneration for the 18,000 acres which the locals had given up to WAPDA. Further, they are demanding that “chula package” funds must be given to more than 2500 families and the displaced people must be provided with “residential and agricultural land.” GB CM Gulbar Khan, on WAPDA not adhering to its promises, said “the feeling of deprivation agitated those affected.” He assured the people that the high level committee would come to GB and discuss the grievances of the displaced people. Protestors have threatened to launch “Plan B” if their concerns are ignored. As per the protesters, “Plan B” will be “very dangerous.”
On the same day, an editorial in Dawn titled “Dam dispute” discussed the contradicting claims made by local residents and WAPDA officials on disbursement of compensation. The editorial mentioned that the local residents have set forth a list of 31 demands including “land settlement payments” for close to “18,000 acres of land” which was acquired by WAPDA for building the dam, disbursement of “household support package” to 2500 households and allotting lands to people who were displaced. The editorial highlighted WAPDA’s side of story as per which it has already provided remuneration for more than 90 per cent of the land which it obtained from the local residents for building of dam. As per WAPDA, it only needs to provide “household support package” for 100 more families and not for 2500 as alleged by the protesters. Further, WAPDA officials allege that local residents continue to operate their businesses, however, they too have received remuneration. (Jamil Nagri, “Govt forms committee to resolve demands of Diamer Basha protesters,” Dawn, 18 February 2025; “Dam dispute,” Dawn, 18 February 2025)
EXTERNAL
At the OIC special meeting, Pakistan calls for the right to self-determination in J&K and Palestine
On 17 February, Pakistan stressed on the necessity of solving the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine. In this regard, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasizing the need to provide the right to self-determination to people of Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, said “the principles of self-determination and the non-acquisition of territory through the use or threat of force are fundamental to maintaining world order.” The statement came at a special meeting of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) ambassadors at the United Nations. The Deputy PM reiterated Pakistan’s complete allegiance in furthering the common aims of OIC. He further stated that Islamabad would keep backing for “just and lasting peace in Palestine.” He also demanded that a “permanent ceasefire” must be ensured in Gaza and that people should have uninterrupted access to “humanitarian assistance.” He vehemently opposed propositions that would compel the people of Palestine to vacate their lands. He also expressed distress regarding reports of Israel threatening to launch attacks in Iran. Further, he hoped that all the countries would work together to reinvigorate the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) which would help in ensuring peace in the region. (“Pakistan urges UN action on Kashmir and Palestine, reaffirms OIC support,” The Express Tribune, 17 February 2025)
INDIA VIEW
On Trump’s F-35 offer to India: “For Pakistan, such a development would be a game-changer,” argues an editorial in The Nation
On 17 February, Dawn reported on the skepticism of opposition parties towards the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government's consideration of buying the Lockheed Martin F-35 jets from the US. India which is struggling to maintain the required “squadron strength” has received offers both from US and Russia to buy their state-of-the-art fighter jets. Russia has also offered to build the SU-57 jets inside India. The largest party in opposition Indian National Congress (INC) reminded the current Indian government of Elon Musk’s remarks on F-35 jets. Elon Musk had earlier called the F-35 jets as “junk.” Elon Musk, previously, had dismissed the significance of “manned jets like F-35” which the INC pointed out. The cost of incurring one F-35 jet would come around at USD 80 million. The Government of India, however, clarified that buying of US jets is just at “proposal stage.”
On 18 February, an editorial in The Nation titled “Indian Jets” discussed India’s intention to secure fifth generation fighter jets and why the development is concerning for Pakistan. The editorial highlighted India’s continual reliance on Russia for procurement of “military supplies.” The editorial pointed out that the US offering India to buy its F-35 jets would help India in expanding “defence partnerships.” The editorial also pointed out how Pakistan is interested in procuring fifth generation fighter jets and China already possesses them. The editorial claimed that if India goes ahead with buying F-35 jets, Pakistan would fall behind its rival in air combat capability. The editorial noted how Pakistan’s fourth generation fighter jets JF-17 would not be able to compete against US made fifth generation fighter jets F-35. The editorial suggested that Pakistan must ensure that air combat parity remains unchanged with its rival neighbor. (“India opposition slams Trump’s F-35 offer while Russia makes its own pitch,” Dawn, 17 February 2025; “Indian jets,” The Nation, 18 February 2025)
|
They are comparing themselves. Inflation is the mayor who increases prices. Beggars cannot be choosers. Shahbaz Sharif took inflation to 48 percent. During Imran Khan's era, it was 13 percent. Something worth Rs. 100 has become worth Rs. 180. It is as if we demolished the house and built two walls again....
- PTI
Pakistan can play the role of a bridge between China and the US, said Chairman Pakistan People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in an interview with DW on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
- PPP
"A person who has been the Prime Minister and will be in the future, his name is Prime Minister Imran Khan, he started PTI from scratch and today it is the most popular party in Pakistan. We should take advantage of his experience. The only leader who has popularity in all four provinces of Pakistan and can unite the nation. May God take advantage of his wisdom."
Omar Ayub Khan
- PTI Islamabad
|
|
|
|
"Divided institutions are captured by the elites."
- An opinion in Dawn, ''Two steps back."
|
|
|
