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In Focus
Balochistan
Tensions mount between PPP and PML-N in the Provincial Assembly
On 23 October, Dawn reported that tensions flared between the coalition partners in the Balochistan Assembly. The 12th provincial assembly of Balochistan was elected in 2024 with 51 general seats, 11 seats reserved for women, and 3 reserved for non-Muslims. In the 2024 general provincial elections, the PPP and PML-N formed the government with 11 and 10 seats, respectively, whereas the JUI-F won 11 seats, BAP secured four seats, NP secured three seats, and independents secured six seats.
In the recent Baloch assembly session, open discord emerged between coalition partners amid worsening security and development conditions in the province. The PPP minister blamed the federal government for neglecting Balochistan’s development and warned PMLN that if PPP withdrew support in the federal government, the federal coalition could collapse. He also suggested forming a delegation and visiting Islamabad to address provincial issues. Also, PPP condemned the armed attack on MPA Barkat Rind’s house, as it was the third attack on the MPA’s house, calling it against Baloch and Pashtun traditions.
While countering PPP, PMLN leaders expressed concern over the security situation in Balochistan, calling for the immediate initiation of dialogue. They praised the role of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshall Asim Munir for restoring peace in Balochistan, but claimed that CM Bugti is responsible for the deteriorating security situation in the province. PML-N MPA also warned the PPP that if PML-N withdraws from the provincial coalition, the government will fall. Another PMLN senator, Dostain Domki, targeted the PPP’s Aghaz-i-Haqooq-i-Balochistan Package, as businesses have shut down, train services are halted, and nighttime transportation has stopped. He also informed that PML-N conveyed to the PM and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for an in-house change in Balochistan to improve the situation, as meaningful dialogue is the only way to achieve peace.
Many other members of the provincial assembly criticize the federal government on many issues. The opposition leader highlighted delays in the Karachi-Quetta-Chaman highway project, which was launched by PM Shehbaz Sharif back in 2022. JUI-F MPA criticized the lesser allocation for the Quetta-Zhob CPEC Road Project, as only PKR 560 million was allocated in place of PKR 56 billion, and another JUI-F MPA raised concerns over a Baloch youth’s dismissal after a week of employment at the Securities and Exchange Commission. One of the minority MPA, Dr Ashok Kumar, claimed neglect of Christians in Balochistan and suggested an inquiry into minority funds. However, the parliamentary secretary refuted the claim, stating that aid cheques were ready for distribution for Christian families. Many of the leaders also blamed the provincial coalition for the poor roads in Quetta. In the whole session, both partners in the coalition government warned that a lack of cooperation could lead to the collapse of their respective governments. (“Ruling allies spar in fiery Balochistan Assembly session”, Dawn, 23 October 2025; “PML-N leaders urge dialogue to resolve Balochistan issues”, Dawn, 23 October 2025; “PPP, PMLN trade barbs in Balochistan PA”, The News International, 23 October 2025)
Punjab
Provincial government approves comprehensive crackdown on illegal networks
On 23 October, The News International reported that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz led the Punjab government to combat armed groups and hate speech, and illegal residents, which established a major internal security program in Punjab during a wide-ranging system that would fight extremism while strengthening state authority. The Lahore meeting brought forth decisive measures over the past few years.
The meeting established three main security measures, which included strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act and the creation of whistle-blower cells throughout districts and AI-powered surveillance to locate extremists and un while landlords who rent to unauthorized residents become subject to prosecution through tenancy and passport laws.
The provincial registered foreign citizens. The Punjab Police operates a special helpline at (15) which accepts intelligence tips. The government used the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to fight online extremism by blocking hateful content on social media platforms. The Skilled Youth Program of Punjab received approval to expand its operations, which now trains 1,80,000 young people, including women and transgender individuals, as part of a dual strategy for security and social development.
The chief minister declared that the government would maintain absolute opposition to militant activities and unauthorized weapons while connecting public safety to improved governance and public involvement. (Ali Raza, “Punjab okays decisive measures to curb extremism,” The News International, 23 October 2025)
Pakistan Occupied Kashmir
Election Commission curtails Gilgit Baltistan government’s powers
On 23 October, Dawn reported that the Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission curtailed the powers of the Gilgit-Baltistan government to ensure free and fair elections in the region, as the tenure of the GB Assembly is set to expire on 24 November 2025.
The public has raised concerns over recent appointments, promotions, and transfers of government officers in various departments during the pre-election period. The GB election commission believes that these appointments, promotions, and transfers carried out during this sensitive pre-election period can be taken as a political advantage. Hence, the commission has taken several decisions, including that no new post creation, redesignation, or promotion proposal shall be submitted to the GB Finance Department, and also there will be a prohibition on the release of additional funds for new or maintenance works.
The GB Election commission also stated that “no new policy, directive, rule or regulation shall be issued or implemented after the issuance of the commission’s notification until the formation of the next provincial government.”
(“Election Commission curtails GB govt’s powers,” Dawn, 23 October 2025)
In Brief
POLITICS
Punjab and Balochistan tensions over seeds and rising input costs dominate the National Assembly Standing Committee review
On 22 October, tensions grew between Punjab and Balochistan as the National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security was informed that the Punjab Seed Corporation had discontinued supplying seeds to Balochistan. As this issue was raised previously, the Federal Seed Certification Department confirmed a severe seed shortage, as only 4000 tonnes are available against a demand of 68000 tonnes. The Ministry of National Food Security asked the provinces to enforce seed regulations through agriculture extension departments to ensure the availability of seeds, but only Punjab implemented it. The committee also raised concerns over the rising cost of fertilisers as prices inflated from PKR 12000 to PKR 15000 per bag and urged the government to intervene. Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain said a meeting would be convened on 24 October to review import data and align local prices with global trends.
The committee recommends minimum support prices for sugarcane and other major crops. The minister stated that an agreement has been reached with the sugar miller for timely and fair procurement and storage facilities are to be made accessible with government support. On wheat, the ministry confirmed stocks for procurement and noted that the olive industry is also growing with initiatives like the ‘Pak Olive’ project. On tobacco, companies shall only purchase premium quality tobacco as instructed by the KP Agriculture Department. Challenges still persist with limited post-harvest infrastructure, market access, lack of farmer training and inadequate zoning data. (“Punjab-Balochistan row over seed supply deepens,” Dawn, 23 October 2025)
Government raises wheat MSP to PKR 3,500 as farmers demand more reform
On 22 October, the Dawn reported that the minimum support price (MSP) for wheat has been raised to PKR 3500 per maund, following a demand by the Pakistan Kissan Rabita Committee (PKRC). The PKRC demanded a minimum of PKR 4000 per maund as the input cost of fertiliser, seeds, diesel and labour are increasing. PKRC General Secretary Farooq Tariq described the previous policy as an “anti-farmer policy” as it was adopted from the instructions of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). “The delay and apathy in determining the MSP is an admission of the failure of IMF-driven agricultural policies,” he added. He called this a temporary win and is a step towards fundamental agricultural policy reform. The PKRC also welcomed the government’s announcement to lift all restrictions on the inter-provincial movement of wheat. (“Farmers win wheat price hike, ask for more,” Dawn, 22 October 2025)
AF-PAK
Pakistan delegation arrives in Kabul to review and improve the visa issuance for Afghans
On 23 October, The News International reported that a Pakistani technical delegation had reached Kabul to improve the visa issuance system for Afghan nationals. It is also reported that the delegation consists of representatives of the Ministry of Interior and other relevant departments and members of a technical team. The visit was scheduled before the Pakistan-Afghanistan border tensions and is not related to the ceasefire diplomatic talks. It is reported that they would review the current reforms at the visa section of Pakistan’s Embassy in Kabul, focus on online visas, upgrading biometric systems and other technical upgrades. (“Pak team in Kabul to improve visa issuance for Afghans,” The News International, 23 October 2025)
SECURITY
Pakistan’s armed forces kill six terrorists in Balochistan
On 23 October, The News International reported that the Pakistan armed forces had killed six Fitna al-Hindustan terrorists in Dalbandin, Chagai District, Balochistan. The operation was launched in a timely manner after tracking the terrorist presence in the mountains through aerial reconnaissance. They dismantled the formation and reduced threats to forces and civilians. In another operation in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan’s forces attacked hideouts and tunnels of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), alias Fitna al-Khawarij. During the operation, the forces recovered weapons, explosive material and communication devices as the terrorists fled the area with injuries. An operation at a cave in Shahi Tangi forest also resulted in the death of a terrorist. (“Security forces kill six terrorists in Dalbandin,” The News International, 23 October 2025)
ECONOMY
Pakistan's Finance Minister highlights stable rupee, decreasing inflation and other macroeconomic gains post IMF-World Bank Annual meetings
On 23 October, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves are sufficient to cover nearly two and a half months of imports, with projections to reach three months by the end of the fiscal year. Following his return from the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, he noted that Pakistan’s economy continues to consolidate gains with a stable currency, declining inflation between 5-7 per cent and a downward trend in policy rates. Aurangzeb reiterated the government’s commitment to structural reforms in taxation, energy, privatisation and public finance. He added that the tax-to-GDP ratio is targeted to rise from 10.2 per cent to 11 per cent this year and 13 per cent in the coming years. He highlighted progress in privatisation as 34 state-owned enterprises transferred to the Privatisation Commission, and the PIA process was advancing with four international bidders.
The minister also announced Pakistan’s plans to issue its first Panda Bond and return to the Eurobond market in 2026 under the Global Medium-Term Note programme. However, he identified rapid population growth and climate change as key challenges preventing Pakistan from becoming a USD 3 trillion economy. While addressing concerns about multinational firms exiting Pakistan, he maintained that new investments continue to enter key sectors such as energy and technology. (“Aurangzeb touts macro gains post-IMF meetings,” Dawn, 23 October 2025)
Editorials/Opinions
Editorial, "The ‘hard state’ approach," Dawn, 23 October 2025
"As the administration expands its dragnet around the TLP, there is once again talk in official circles of applying the ‘hard state’ approach to tackling extremism. Yet it is also true that in the guise of fighting extremism, the state must not crack down on all opposition, and trample on civil liberties. There is genuine concern that in their excitement to build a ‘hard state’, the rulers may further smother fundamental rights, while justifying crackdowns on opposition parties, going after dissenting journalists and restricting peaceful protests — all in the name of fighting ‘extremism’. While violent groups must be put out of business, constitutional safeguards need to be upheld, and civil liberties protected. The state’s long-term goal should be to promise justice, inclusivity and prosperity across the country, particularly in its deprived areas."
Editorial, "Delayed local polls," Dawn, 23 October 2025
"Predictable as it was in the wake of the Punjab government’s passage of a new local government law, the Election Commission’s decision to postpone local polls in the province underscores a troubling pattern of democratic backsliding. The ECP’s move to withdraw its barely three-week-old delimitation schedule — issued to enable elections in December — at the provincial authorities’ ‘request’ is not merely an act of expediency, it is another setback to the devolution process. Punjab has effectively been without local bodies since 2019, as successive governments have found one pretext or another to delay polls. The ECP’s failure to announce a firm election date makes it evident that local democracy is no more a priority for the ECP than it is for the ruling PML-N. In the end, the mandate belongs to those who want to use it."
Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, "PDNA 2022 vs PDNA 2025," Dawn, 23 October 2025
"The Planning Commission has released a Preliminary Assessment of Flood Damages as of September 2025, providing the first official estimate of destruction caused by this year’s floods. The 2025 floods provide a crucial, if tragic, opportunity to assess whether the climate-focused recommendations from 2022 influenced reconstruction and preparedness, or whether they merely exposed gaps between Pakistan’s development partners’ engagement ambitions and the government’s implementation realities. The 2025 floods provide clear preliminary evidence of significant implementation gaps in the 2022 climate mandate. The persistent re-destruction of infrastructure and the loss of over 8,400 houses confirm that ‘build back better’ principles were not operationalised. The gap between 2022’s climate ambitions and 2025’s reality exposes fundamental implementation barriers in Pakistan’s disaster response system. Without operational frameworks to translate analysis into action, communities will remain vulnerable to predictable, recurring climate impacts."
Editorial, "Democracy without devolution," The News International, 23 October 2025
"The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has once again withdrawn the schedule for Punjab’s local government elections, granting the provincial government four more weeks to complete delimitation and frame demarcation rules under the new Punjab Local Government Act, 2025. This development means another indefinite delay in Punjab’s local polls – the fourth such postponement in nearly a decade. Across all provinces, successive governments have shown an alarming disinterest in holding local bodies elections. The reason is as simple as it is troubling: no government wants to share power. Historically, Pakistan has seen the most empowered local bodies under military regimes, a contradiction that shows the insecurity of our elected politicians. For any democracy to function smoothly, local bodies are not an option but a necessity. It is high time provincial governments stopped treating them as a political inconvenience and started viewing them as the cornerstone of democratic governance."
Ahsan Iqbal, "The atomic model of success," The News International, 23 October 2025
"On May 28, 1998, Pakistan did what the world thought was impossible. In the barren mountains of Chagai, we entered the elite nuclear club. It was not just a scientific achievement but a triumph of will, discipline and national purpose. The newly minted ‘Atomic Model of Success’ offers lessons that transcend nuclear science — it embodies a management philosophy rooted in merit, stability, and shared vision. Pakistan’s atomic programme succeeded because it combined unity of purpose, stability of leadership, meritocracy, investment in human capital, and functional autonomy. These principles, if applied to governance and the economy, can turn Pakistan’s potential into performance under the new national mission ‘URAAN Pakistan’. The atomic model teaches us that success is about systems that reward excellence, not connections — systems that align effort with purpose. The same formula that once secured our defence can now secure our economic future."
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