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In Focus
Emergency rule imposed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
PTI rejects move as unconstitutional; Army deployed to KP; Info minister links KP government to terror “nexus”
On 11 October, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan’s federal government imposed an emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), following approval by President Asif Ali Zardari under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. The government cited the deteriorating security situation and accused the PTI-led provincial administration of failing to combat terrorism. The measures followed a breakdown in negotiations between the Centre and the provincial government over counterterrorism policy, amid heightened political tensions.
The federal government deployed army personnel in aid of civil power, established an 11-member technocratic KP Advisory Council and appointed Dr Muhammad Fakhr Alam Irfan as chief secretary. The council, chaired by Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, will assist in administering the province. An Area Development Secretariat was also established to oversee 12 districts facing serious security challenges. Meanwhile, internet disruptions were reported in parts of KP, roads in Peshawar were blocked with shipping containers, and PTI leaders alleged that Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and other party members had been arrested, although authorities did not initially confirm Afridi’s detention.
The PTI strongly rejected the measures as unconstitutional and undemocratic, arguing that they undermined the province’s elected government, public mandate and autonomy. Party leaders vowed to challenge the decision through legal and democratic channels, while insisting that counterterrorism efforts should involve provincial consultation and political dialogue. The federal government defended the emergency as necessary to restore security, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi alleging that the Centre’s attempts to secure the provincial government’s cooperation had failed. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar alleged that the PTI-led KP government had a “nexus” with terrorist groups, claiming that militants were gaining influence over district administration and that the provincial government’s alleged facilitation of these groups constituted a constitutional breakdown. Governor Kundi said the administration’s priorities would include restoring peace, strengthening police and counterterrorism capabilities, and improving healthcare, education and employment. (“Emergency, governor's rule imposed in KP as president approves cabinet decision,” Dawn, 11 October 2026; “PTI rejects emergency, governor's rule in K-P as unconstitutional, vows to continue struggle,” The Express Tribune, 11 October 2026; “Info minister alleges 'nexus' between PTI-led KP govt, terrorists,” Dawn, 11 October 2026; “'Our fight is against terrorism': Kundi chairs first meeting of KP Advisory Council,” Dawn, 11 October 2026)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
TTAP, JUI-F condemn imposition of governor’s rule and emergency in KP
On 11 October, Dawn reported that the Tehreek-i- Tahafuz Ayin-i- Pakistan (TTAP) had denounced the imposition of governor’s rule and emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The TTAP termed the move unconstitutional and said it would challenge the order through the courts, assemblies, and public forums. The alliance further informed that the planned long march towards Islamabad would go forward as planned. PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan said governor’s rule and an emergency would not resolve the problems KP faced. He also stressed that counterterrorism efforts required a unified strategy developed through political consensus. The chairman also stated the KP government had remained committed to tackling terrorism, rejecting allegations it had not cooperated with the federal government. Gohar also called for the release of political prisoners and the restoration of legal rights for jailed former PM Imran Khan. Meanwhile, PTI Secretary-General Akram Raja informed the party had always wanted a mutual consensus on counterterrorism. Raja also stated the KP government could not have granted the federal government unrestricted authority to take any measures it wished for. Similarly, the chief of Majlis Wahdat- i- Muslimeen (MWM), Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, criticised the treatment of the PTI. Abbas also called for the implementation of the National Action Plan(NAP).
Dawn also reported that the chief of Jamiat Ulema-i- Islam- Fazl (JUI-F), Maulana Fazlur Rahman, had accused the Pakistani government of reneging on its commitments towards mediation with the PTI-led KP government. Fazl had held meetings with both the federal and provincial governments, attempting to defuse tensions. Fazl informed that after the meetings with him, the Centre had agreed to defer its plan to impose emergency, and the PTI march had decided to avoid entering Islamabad. He also stated both parties were insisting that the other take the first step. Fazl informed that before his planned visit to Peshawar for further discussions, the Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had informed him the government wished to impose an emergency in KP because of the security situation. Fazl stated he had questioned the purpose of mediation if the government had already made up its mind. The JUI-F chief also termed the imposition an “attack on democracy”, and said his party would defend the Constitution of Pakistan. (“TTAP condemns imposition of governor’s rule, emergency in KP, calls move 'unconstitutional',’’ Dawn, 11 October 2026; “Fazl accuses govt of reneging on its commitments after seeking his mediation with PTI," Dawn, 11 October 2026)
Human Rights Commission cautions against growing political tensions
On 12 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan(HRCP) had warned the federal government and parliament that the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could intensify political tensions. The HRCP urged the Centre and the PTI to return to meaningful political discussions. It also urged against the imposition of measures which could further aggravate the political situation in KP, and stressed that the fundamental rights of citizens should not be suspended under any pretext. (“HRCP warns of rising political tensions,” The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026)
EXTERNAL
Pakistan and Azerbaijan reaffirm strategic partnership, pledge to strengthen economic and investment cooperation
On 10 October, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep-rooted fraternal and strategic partnership with Azerbaijan during a telephone conversation with President Ilham Aliyev. The two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and agreed to translate their strong political understanding into closer economic, investment, and commercial cooperation. Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan held President Aliyev and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan in the highest esteem. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at growing momentum in multifaceted cooperation and reaffirmed determination to translate exceptional political goodwill into mutually beneficial economic, investment and commercial partnership. The leaders discussed progress on ongoing bilateral initiatives, particularly the operationalisation of the Asaan Khidmat Centre in Islamabad, modelled on Azerbaijan’s ASAN Khidmet service delivery system, describing it as exemplifying practical benefits of bilateral cooperation for Pakistan’s people. At Sharif’s request, President Aliyev agreed to extend Azerbaijan’s full support and expertise for expanding the Asaan Khidmat network across Pakistan. Sharif thanked Aliyev for the gesture, describing it as another manifestation of Azerbaijan’s enduring friendship and solidarity. The leaders exchanged views on the evolving regional and international situation and stressed the need for continued consultations and coordination on matters of mutual interest. Sharif briefed Aliyev on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and efforts to promote peace, dialogue and de-escalation in the region. Aliyev appreciated Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic efforts for facilitating dialogue and mediation, acknowledging their importance for regional peace and stability. The conversation concluded with both reaffirming commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and transforming their strategic partnership into a lasting relationship. (“Pakistan and Azerbaijan reaffirm strategic partnership, vow closer economic ties,” Dawn, 10 October 2026)
Foreign Office reiterates Pakistan’s firm commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security following Riyadh airport attack
On 11 October, Dawn reported that the Foreign Office condemned fresh Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Pakistan’s firm and unshakeable commitment to Riyadh’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and stability under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed on 7 August with Turkiye. Saturday’s attack on Riyadh’s international airport killed at least 12 people and wounded 309 others. The Foreign Office stated that targeting civilian airports constituted a heinous act of terrorism, a flagrant violation of international law, and a grave threat to regional peace and security. It expressed concern over casualties, extending condolences to bereaved families and wishing swift recovery to injured persons. The statement condemned continued targeting of civilian populations and critical infrastructure by Houthi militia as utterly unacceptable and demanded unequivocal international condemnation. It stressed that such brazen and indiscriminate acts of aggression could not be justified and must cease immediately. The Foreign Office expressed unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia’s leadership and reiterated firm commitment to Riyadh’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and stability in line with the Makkah Defence Agreement and decisions taken by its Strategic, Political and Defence Committee on 05 October, whereby member states agreed to rapid deployment of military forces and capabilities in the kingdom. It expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s right to self-defence and urged Yemen’s Houthis to cease attacks and the international community to take a firm stand against them. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed concern at the Houthi attack and prayed for speedy recovery of all injured, including six Pakistani nationals. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, stating that targeting civilian and critical infrastructure was completely unacceptable and a serious threat to regional peace and stability. (“FO reiterates Pakistan’s ‘firm and unshakeable’ commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security after Riyadh attack,” Dawn, 11 October 2026)
ECONOMY
Cement prices increase manifold over the last year
On 11 October, Dawn reported that construction costs have risen as cement manufacturers have increased prices by up to PKR 201 per 50kg bag over the past year. According to the weekly Sensitive Price Index (SPI) for the week ending 08 October, the average price of a 50kg cement bag stood at PKR 1,596, compared with PKR 1,395 in the week ended 09 October, 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 14.38 per cent. However, Topline Securities said in a report that cement prices had increased by PKR 100-150 per 50kg bag during the first quarter of FY27 compared with the same period last year, mainly due to higher fuel costs amid elevated international coal and diesel prices. The listed cement sector was expected to post a combined profit of PKR 32.4 billion in the first quarter of FY27, compared with PKR 27.8 billion in the first quarter of FY26, representing an increase of 16 per cent year-on-year and 16 per cent quarter-on-quarter. The year-on-year growth in earnings was primarily attributable to higher net sales amid increased retention prices. Net sales were projected to reach PKR 143 billion in the first quarter of FY27, up 25 per cent year-on-year and 14 per cent quarter-on-quarter, driven by higher cement prices and growth in domestic dispatches. Local cement dispatches increased by 8 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter of FY27, while export dispatches declined by 11 per cent. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, domestic cement dispatches rose by 9 per cent on the back of stronger demand, while export dispatches increased by 10 per cent. (“50kg cement bag price rises by Rs 201 in a year,” Dawn, 11 October 2026)
Finance Minister unaware of IMF’s concerns on fuel subsidy scheme
On 12 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Finance Minister expressed ignorance about the IMF's concerns over Pakistan's fuel subsidy scheme during a brief interaction with The Express Tribune at the International Poultry Expo 2026. He said targeted subsidy was the way forward and the scheme would continue to benefit vulnerable segments of society. The remarks came despite the IMF calling for the fuel support scheme to be phased out promptly, citing its high cost and broad targeting. The IMF, in its 07 October press release announcing a staff-level agreement on the fourth review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the third review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) for Pakistan, called for the fuel support scheme to be phased out promptly, citing its high cost and broad targeting. He reiterated that the targeted subsidy scheme had been successful and had benefited around 10.2 million people. (“FinMin unaware of IMF fuel subsidy objection,” The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026)
Industry leaders criticise government’s decision to increase wheat prices
On 11 October, The Express Tribune reported that Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade and Industry (HSATI) Chairman has criticised an increase of PKR 2,500 in the price of a wheat bag. He said the government has failed to control inflation and protect consumers from rising food costs and urged the government to take immediate measures to stabilise prices and ensure that essential food items remain affordable. He stated the government had previously purchased wheat from farmers under provincial budget allocations, a policy that helped maintain price stability and provide relief to consumers. However, the government's decision to stop wheat procurement contributed to price increases and intensified difficulties for the public. Also, the HSATI chairman warned that persistent increases in the prices of essential goods, without a corresponding rise in household incomes, continued to erode purchasing power and deepen financial pressures on ordinary families. (“Trade industry denounce wheat price spike,” The Express Tribune, 11 October 2026)
SECURITY
KP: Terror attacks up 195 per cent since 2024, with police short of weapons, vehicles and 9,000 staff
On 12 October, The Express Tribune reported that two security reports presented to the federal cabinet by IB chief Fuad Asadullah said terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa rose 195 per cent between March 2024 and 23 September 2026, with 73 per cent of 2026's attacks targeting police and security personnel, and drone attacks on security forces jumping from none in 2024 to 170 by 2026. The reports blamed Afghanistan-based militants, local facilitators and what they called the provincial government's flawed policies and soft approach, while flagging more than 9,000 vacant police posts, severe shortages of modern weapons, surveillance gear and armoured vehicles in the southern districts, and a Safe City project limited to Peshawar. ("Terror attacks in K-P surge 195% since 2024," The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026)
Balochistan: Ten militants killed in CTD operation in Barkhan
On 10 October, Dawn reported that Balochistan's Counter-Terrorism Department killed 10 militants in an intelligence-based operation in Barkhan district after an intense gun battle, with two CTD officials injured and a large quantity of arms, ammunition and explosives seized, according to Home Department aide Babar Yousafzai. CM Sarfraz Bugti praised the CTD, and the operation follows five militants killed in Mastung on 07 October and PICSS data showing Balochistan as the province most affected by terrorism, with attacks up 07 per cent to 89 in August. ("10 terrorists killed during CTD operation in Barkhan, says Balochistan govt," Dawn, 10 October 2026)
KP: Election Commission director general shot dead at his home in Tank
On 11 October, Dawn reported that unidentified armed men shot dead ECP Director General Shamshad Akhtar in Tank district on Saturday as he stepped out of his ancestral home in Garah Baloch, where he was receiving condolences after his brother's death. Police cordoned off the scene and began a search for the killers, with the motive unknown, while the ECP called it a targeted killing and described Akhtar as an honest officer with no personal enmity. ("Election Commission director general shot dead in Tank," Dawn, 11 October 2026)
KP: Twelve killed in Kurram as Afghan Taliban posts open fire
On 11 October, Dawn reported that ISPR said security forces detected a group of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants trying to cross from Afghanistan into Kurram district and foiled the attempt, killing 12 militants and Afghan Taliban personnel after Taliban posts opened fire in support, with Naib Subedar Hidayat Aman martyred. ISPR said the incident vindicated Islamabad's position that the Taliban regime has failed to stop Afghan soil being used by militants, and that a sanitisation operation was under way, as PICSS data showed 225 attacks nationwide in September, a 13.1 per cent rise from August and the highest monthly total in 12 years. ("Soldier martyred, 12 terrorists killed as security forces foil infiltration attempt in Kurram: ISPR," Dawn, 11 October 2026)
Section 144 imposed in Karachi and Rawalpindi
On 12 October, Dawn reported that Karachi's commissioner imposed Section 144 across the city from 11 to 20 October, banning protests, sit-ins, rallies and assemblies of more than five people, saying road blockades were causing severe traffic congestion, blocking emergency services and hospital access and posing security concerns.
Dawn also reported that the Rawalpindi deputy commissioner imposed Section 144 for 30 days, until 08 November, after the District Intelligence Committee warned of an "imminent threat" to sensitive installations and major roads from groups mobilising to disturb law and order, amid PTI's long march, which has so far stayed within KP. The order bans gatherings of more than five people, the open display of weapons and improvised explosives, and drone use, and joins similar orders in Islamabad, in force for two months from 18 September, and Lahore, until 15 October. ("Section 144 imposed in Rawalpindi district for a month over 'threat to law and order'," Dawn, 10 October 2026; "Authorities impose Section 144 in Karachi, ban gatherings of more than 5 people till Oct 20," Dawn, 12 October 2026)
AF-PAK
Afghan medical students plead for exemption from deportation order despite documentation challenges
On 11 October, Dawn reported that Afghan medical students and doctors undergoing training in Pakistan appealed for exemptions from government deportation directives following an expired 10 October deadline. Students admitted to medical colleges under Afghan quota seats and those who qualified the Medical and Dental College Admission Test sought permission to complete their degrees despite documentation requirements. A focal person for Afghan students told Dawn that approximately 80 students were studying in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after arriving through legal channels, with visa applications of most either rejected or pending. Around 1,000 Afghan students, including 350 women, would be affected by the directives, lacking facilities to continue education at home. Cases remain pending before high courts, though officials expressed little hope for relief since the policy was government-framed. The federal government directed Afghan students and doctors undergoing training at medical colleges and hospitals to produce required documentation or depart by 10 October. The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council issued letters to medical superintendents and deans directing that all Afghan doctors enrolled in postgraduate training programmes, including FCPS, MCPS, MD and MS, as well as house officers, return by the deadline. Officials stated the regulator received similar instructions regarding Afghan nationals seeking enrolment in MBBS and BDS programmes. Afghan students would require valid Afghan passports, visas or stay permits and no-objection certificates from the Ministry of Interior. Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa asked colleges to furnish information about Afghan students by Monday. Punjab’s colleges directed Afghan postgraduate trainees to vacate premises and obtain required clearances. (“Afghan medical students seek exemption from deportation order,” Dawn, 11 October 2026)
PROVINCES
KP: Government plans six-year fiscal reform programme
On 11 October, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would launch a six-year World Bank-supported programme with the stated objective of improving its fiscal system. This is alongside the World Bank’s plans to approve a USD 200 million loan from the International Development Association (IDA) to fund the expenditure framework of the programme for the years 2027-32. Revenue mobilisation, fiscal management and service delivery will be the main priorities for the loan. The programme’s total financing is estimated at USD 650 million, with the remaining amount provided by the KP government. The Public Resources for Inclusive Development (PRID) Multiphase Programmatic Approach, which is a part of the programme, is designed to provide improved healthcare and education services to the residents, particularly public primary school students. Taxpayers and businesses, including property owners, agricultural income taxpayers and vehicle owners, are also expected to benefit from the programme. Similarly, private investors will benefit from access to better statistics and improved tax administration services. Policymaking is also expected to focus on aligning resource allocation more closely with provincial needs, with a view towards improving the quality and equity of public services and investments across KP. However, the province continues to face the persistent challenge of below-par development outcomes and fiscal vulnerability. The structural dependence on federal transfers, rigid salary and pension structures, inflation and a fragmented revenue administration structure are among the key issues. (“KP to launch six-year fiscal reform programme,” Dawn, 11 October 2026)
POK
"Gilgit- Baltistan" tightens security arrangements for foreigners
On 11 October, Dawn reported that "Gilgit-Baltistan" police had decided to strengthen security for foreign nationals living and working in the region. This decision came after a high-level meeting reviewing the existing protections for foreign nationals involved in development projects such as private mining and non-CPEC projects, and business activities in "GB". According to a statement from the "GB" police spokesperson, the meeting was chaired by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan. Senior police officials attending the meeting reviewed police deployments and protective measures at check posts, and emphasised the need for stronger coordination, advance notification, verification and security checks for movement of Chinese nationals. The IGP also ordered a district-level threat assessment and the implementation of security procedures issued by the National Counter Terrorism Authority. The re-verification of residential no-objection certificates (NOCs), security audits of approved locations, and ensuring compliance with NOC conditions and legal requirements were amongst the other measures urged by the IGP. He also stated that no negligence in the handling of foreign nationals, especially Chinese ones, would be tolerated. (“Gilgit- Baltistan steps up security for foreigners,’’ Dawn, 11 October 2026)
JUDICIARY
Supreme Court reports progress on judicial, institutional reforms
On 10 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s Supreme Court released its report, “Journey Through Reform and Innovation 2026”, documenting judicial and institutional reforms undertaken between November 2024 and September 2026. The report details the implementation of an 86-point Reform Action Plan, covering case management, backlog reduction, digital transformation, accountability and access to justice. It highlights increased case disposals, prioritisation of long-pending cases, expanded digital services and data-driven performance monitoring. Other initiatives include Model Trial Courts, responsible use of artificial intelligence and judicial analytics. The report also outlines efforts to improve transparency, facilitate litigants and strengthen international judicial cooperation, while acknowledging the continuing need to improve the efficiency and accessibility of justice delivery. (“Supreme Court releases report documenting judicial, institutional reforms,” Dawn, 10 October 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Politics & governance
Maleeha Lodhi, “Why stability is elusive,” Dawn, 12 October 2026
"Political stability requires a reset on several fronts. It needs the creation of a peaceful and predictable political environment resting on a truce and mutual accommodation between the government and opposition. A divided and polarised country cannot be stable. Genuine dialogue is needed that is aimed at a lasting modus vivendi, not driven by short-term expediency to stop the next protest march. It also means the government relenting in its inhumane treatment of PTI leader Imran Khan in defiance of court orders. The recent talks were doomed when the government wasn’t even willing to allow opposition leaders to meet Khan for consultations on the negotiations. It also remains unwilling to grant him his entitlement under the law. Such an attitude cannot form the basis for serious negotiations, let alone a political settlement."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036564/why-stability-is-elusive
Editorial, “Governor's rule in K-P,” The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026
“Hopes for a political thaw were put to rest yesterday as the Centre clamped an Emergency and imposed Governor's rule in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. The situation hit this pass as both sides rigidly stuck to their positions. The Federation could have avoided this extreme measure had it granted the opposition its due political space. Conversely, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi's unrelenting rhetoric and vows to march on the capital pushed the situation to the brink."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2634287/governors-rule-in-k-p
Economy
Farooq Arby, “Tax game,” Dawn, 12 October 2026
“For decades, the FBR has found itself stuck in a loop of introducing a series of simplified schemes to bring the vast informal sector into the tax net, only to watch them fall flat. The latest initiative, the Fixed Tax Asaan Scheme for traders, offered a simplified filing process, a flat one per cent tax on turnover, and immunity from routine audits. Yet, despite targeting an estimated 3.5 million eligible traders, only a few thousand enrolled, generating a negligible amount of tax against a target of Rs50 billion."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036561/tax-game
Society
Editorial, “Paralysed prisons,” Dawn, 12 October 2026
“Pakistan's overcrowded jails distort the intention of imprisonment — rehabilitation, education, and occupational development. The Annual Prisons Data Report 2026, compiled by the National Commission for Human Rights and Justice Project Pakistan, reveals that attention to lengthy confinement, delays in trials, and difficulties in obtaining bail has been long overdue. It also finds that Pakistan’s jails, built for 68,832 people, were operating at over 160pc of their capacity. The prison system currently holds 41,681 more people. As a result, 110,513 are packed in tight, squalid spaces. Three out of every four inmates are caught in legal paralysis and are awaiting trial. Punjab and Sindh have witnessed a substantial rise in inmate numbers, with prisons in KP and Balochistan still operating within capacity."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036557/paralysed-prisons
Judiciary
Muhammad Siddique Ali Pirzada, “Arbitration and human rights,” The Express Tribune, 11 October 2026
“Human rights and arbitration are often cast as opposing juridical worlds. One evokes public values, vulnerable claimants and state power; the other, contractual consent, private adjudication and commercial disputes. But that contrast obscures the question: when business activity causes human rights harm across borders, should effective remedy depend upon the institutional label of the forum? It should not. What matters is whether the mechanism can deliver legitimate, accessible and effective redress."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2634121/arbitration-and-human-rights
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