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In Focus
PTI to challenge KP emergency rule before Peshawar High Court
Calls it an “attack on provincial autonomy”; government detains KP CM Afridi and other PTI members; Peshawar sees heavy police deployment
On 13 October, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan vowed to challenge the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) before the Peshawar High Court, as the party continued its long march and protests. A separate petition was filed seeking to declare the federal government’s measures unconstitutional and suspend the governor’s rule notification. The PTI condemned the move as an “attack on provincial autonomy and democratic rights”, while the federal government maintained that extraordinary measures were necessary to address the deteriorating security situation.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, who assumed executive control of the province, pledged closer coordination with Islamabad and prioritised counterterrorism, promising additional resources, equipment and improved salaries for police personnel. The federal government also confirmed the preventive detention of Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and several PTI leaders, including provincial party president Junaid Akbar, amid uncertainty over their whereabouts. Meanwhile, an 11-member advisory council began work under Kundi, while the Centre established a monitoring committee led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to oversee governance and security. Authorities also announced plans to restore internet services partially and remove roadblocks in Peshawar.
The developments have deepened tensions between the PML-N-led federal government and the PTI, particularly over counterterrorism policy and engagement with the Afghan Taliban. Federal ministers have accused the former provincial administration of failing to cooperate against militants, while the PTI has rejected the emergency measures and vowed to pursue legal and political resistance. On the ground, Peshawar experienced heavy police deployment, container-blocked roads, disrupted public transport and mobile and internet outages, complicating residents’ daily movement. The confrontation raises questions about provincial autonomy, constitutional authority and the balance between security interventions and democratic governance in Pakistan. (“Gohar to move PHC against K-P emergency,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026; “KP's policies will come from Islamabad now, not Kabul, says Kundi,” Dawn, 12 October 2026; “Sohail Afridi, KP assembly speaker in preventative custody: police,” Dawn, 12 October 2026; “PM forms 11-member panel to monitor K-P,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026; “Peshawar becomes city of containers,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Opposition leader condemns KP governor’s rule as DPM Dar defends federal move
On 12 October, Dawn reported that opposition leaders criticised the federal government’s imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai comparing the response to the security situation in Balochistan. He called the move an assault on democracy and urged unified, peaceful opposition resistance. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar defended the measures as necessary to combat terrorism, while Information Minister Attaullah Tarar cited Pakistan’s more than 90,000 war-on-terror deaths and economic losses exceeding USD 100 billion. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also described the decision as constitutional and necessary after other avenues had been exhausted.
Separately, Punjab Police personnel expressed concern over reports that 25,000 of the 40,000 officers deployed in Attock to manage the PTI march could be relocated to KP following the emergency’s imposition. Officers cited exhaustion, inadequate facilities and complaints about poor-quality food; five personnel reportedly died over the preceding two weeks. Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Kareem said no final decision had been made regarding redeployment. He acknowledged concerns over food quality and said the Punjab Food Authority had deployed teams to monitor food hygiene and drinking water. (“DPM Dar defends emergency and governor’s rule in KP, says measures not politically motivated,” Dawn, 12 October 2026; “Unease among Punjab police personnel on reports of deployment in KP,” Dawn, 12 October 2026; “Achakzai draws Balochistan parallel as he flays Centre over governor’s rule in KP,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
EXTERNAL
Oman's foreign minister on two-day official visit to Pakistan
On 12 October, Dawn reported that Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, would undertake an official two-day visit to Pakistan from 12 to 13 October. The Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) issued a statement officially announcing Albusaidi’s visit, which was at the invitation of Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The statement further informed that the Eighth Session of the Pakistan-Oman Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) would be held during the visit, with the foreign ministers of both countries chairing. According to the FO statement, the meeting would review the entire spectrum of Pakistan-Oman bilateral relations and to further strengthen cooperation in diverse fields. The FO further informed that the visit reflected the longstanding fraternal relations between Pakistan and Oman, and would improve mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors. Albusaidi is also expected to call upon Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his visit. Radio Pakistan informed that Dar had chaired a meeting to review preparations for the JMC session. It further stated that the JMC session was expected to focus on improving cooperation in varied sectors including trade, investment, industry, agriculture, finance, security and defence. (“Omani FM to visit Pakistan from Oct 13-14, will attend Joint Ministerial Commission session,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Russian interior minister begins Pakistan visit
On 12 October, Dawn reported that the Russian Interior Minister, Vladimir Kolokolstev, had arrived in Pakistan for a four-day visit. The Pakistani interior ministry issued a statement that Kolokolstev was undertaking the visit at the invitation of Pakistani interior minister Mohsin Naqvi. The ministry also informed that the Russian minister was received by the Pakistani Minister of State for Interior, Tallal Chaudhry. According to the statement, Kolokolstev would participate in “important discussions” on improving bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation. The ministry stated he would also hold meetings with the Pakistani leadership. Kolokolstev’ s visit is the first by a Russian interior minister to Pakistan. (“Russian interior minister arrives in Pakistan for four-day visit,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Brazil to enhance military collaboration with Pakistan after meeting with CDF Munir
On 12 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan and Brazil had agreed to bolster military-to-military cooperation. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement that a Brazilian military delegation led by the Chief of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Brazilian Armed Forces, Admiral Renato Rodrigues de Aguiar Freire, had met the Chief of Defence Forces(CDF) Asim Munir. ISPR informed that the two military leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and agreed to further strengthen military-to-military collaboration alongside methods to improve security and defence cooperation. The statement further added that CDF Munir “emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with Brazil.” According to ISPR, Admiral Freire commended the professionalism and operational preparedness of the Pakistan military and acknowledged its contributions to regional peace and stability. The statement concluded that the visit reflected the shared resolve of Pakistan and Brazil to strengthen defence cooperation and bilateral military ties. (“High-level Brazil delegation meets CDF Munir; both sides agree to bolster military collaboration,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
ECONOMY
IMF revises Pakistan's inflation forecast and keeps GDP projections unchanged
On 13 October, The Express Tribune reported that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised Pakistan's inflation forecast to 9.9 per cent but kept economic growth unchanged at 3.5 per cent. The fresh figures have been released in the World Economic Outlook (WEO) report, while the IMF's staff-level report will be made public only after the loan tranches are approved by the executive board, tentatively in late November. According to the WEO report, which the IMF released on the sidelines of annual meetings, inflation in Pakistan could accelerate to 9.9 per cent in this fiscal year. In April this year, the IMF had projected Pakistan's inflation rate at 8.4 per cent for fiscal year 2026-27, which it also maintained in July's report. According to the IMF report, economic growth in Pakistan may remain at 3.5 per cent in this fiscal year - a forecast that is unchanged compared to the lender's previous projections. During the review talks, Pakistani authorities had tried to convince the IMF that the annual growth target of 4 per cent would be achieved. (“IMF raises inflation forecast to 99,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026)
Pakistan to import ten LNG cargoes at nearly double the price of Qatar supplies
On 13 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan's government is set to import ten LNG cargoes at double the price at which LNG is being imported from Qatar. These cargoes will be purchased from the spot market for deliveries from November 2026 to February 2027 to meet the high demand for gas in the winter season. Based on the estimated Brent-linked long-term price and the spot LNG price of USD 26.30/MMBtu, being the latest spot price quoted in a tender, the estimated import bill of each spot cargo will be USD 86.3 million. Between November 2026 and February 2027, total LNG import costs are anticipated to reach USD 1,292.83 million for the 22 cargoes required to meet seasonal demand. Winter requirements will peak in January 2027 with eight cargoes pushing the monthly cost to USD 437.32 million, followed closely by December 2026 at USD 369 million. The estimated import bill for the 12 cargoes under long-term contracts will be USD 429.83 million, while the estimated import bill for the 10 spot cargoes will be USD 863 million. (“LNG imports to cost over 1b in winter,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026)
Pakistan's rupee appreciates by around PKR 2 against US dollar since the US-Iran war
On 13 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan's rupee has appreciated by around PKR 2 against the US dollar since the West Asia war began. The Pakistani rupee, extending its modest upward trend against the US dollar, gained 0.01 per cent in the interbank market on 13 October 2026 and closed at PKR 276.97 per dollar. The currency's gradual upward trajectory reflects a policy approach focused on accumulating foreign exchange, containing domestic demand and maintaining monetary restraint rather than relying on currency depreciation to absorb external shocks. The rupee's appreciation comes as Pakistan continues to struggle with weak exports. The real effective exchange rate (REER) has crossed 107, prompting concerns about the currency's competitiveness. (“Rupee gains Rs 2 since US Iran war,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026)
Textile exporters warn of a steep decline in goods exports
On 12 October, Dawn reported that Textile exporters have warned the government of a steep decline in goods exports during the second quarter of the current fiscal year. Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) Patron-in-Chief said the country’s export sector was facing mounting pressure from multiple directions, threatening its competitiveness and share in international markets. He said inflation in Western markets had weakened demand from international buyers, while sea freight charges had increased by 1.5 to 2.5 times, squeezing exporters’ already thin profit margins. He also urged the government to provide temporary support through the Duty Drawback of Local Taxes and Levies (DLTL) scheme at a rate of 6 per cent to 8 per cent to help exporters retain their international market share. He also called for a 10-year strategic plan for textile exports, focusing on Pakistan’s existing industrial expertise, exportable surplus and structural reforms needed to improve international competitiveness. (“Textile makers warn of steep decline in exports from Oct to Dec,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Government plans to privatise five to six public entities
On 12 October, Dawn reported that the government is looking to push for the privatisation of five to six entities that could raise upwards of USD 1 billion. Following the privatisation of flag carrier Pakistan International Airlines last year, the Finance Minister said the government has around another dozen entities in the pipeline, including state-owned power distribution companies and the outsourcing of airport operations. Privatisation has been seen as a key test of Pakistan’s reform credibility with the IMF, with officials previously underlining that failure to offload loss-making state firms risked renewed pressure on public finances. (“Pakistan looking to raise more than 1bn under govt push for privatisation says finance minister,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
SECURITY
"AJK": Four killed near LoC in the Poonch district due to a landmine explosion
On 12 October, Dawn reported that four men were killed when a landmine exploded near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch district, according to the Directorate General of Public Relations (DGPR). The DGPR added that they were at the site of the incident in the Hajira tehsil to repair a pipeline carrying spring water when the landmine floated into the area and exploded. Moreover, the DGPR noted that due to the unclear border demarcation in areas of the LoC, floating unexploded landmines posed a persistent threat. (“4 men killed in landmine explosion near LoC in Azad Kashmir,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Rawalpindi: 9,500 police personnel deployed amid heightened security situation
On 12 October, Dawn reported that police have intensified security in Rawalpindi, deploying more than 9,500 personnel and conducting a flag march on Sunday to enforce Section 144 amid the political situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A police spokesman stated that 3,500 personnel had been deployed at various points, while another 6,000 were performing security duties at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where a T20 series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is underway. More than 750 personnel have reportedly been deployed in the Red Zone, stretching from Mall Road to the Old Airport, while random vehicle checks have begun at 31 police checkpoints across the city. Other security arrangements reportedly include two SPs, six ASPs, 16 SHOs and inspectors, 54 senior subordinates, and 258 constables on special picket duty, along with 83 Elite Force commandos. Additionally, police have also been deployed at 10 metro bus stations between Saddar and Faizabad, with additional pickets planned towards Islamabad. Rawalpindi CPO Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera led the flag march, joined by senior police officers. The march began at Police Lines and passed through several areas, including Koral, Murree Road, Faizabad, Mall Road, Saddar and Peshawar Road, before returning to Police Lines. (“Over 9,500 police personnel deployed in Rawalpindi,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
AF-PAK
Afghan Taliban resorting to diversion; cross-border terrorism, says Information Ministry
On 12 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB) stated that the Afghan Taliban resorted to “rhetoric and diversion” to deflect attention from terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory and launching attacks against Pakistan. In a post on X, the Ministry further added that attempts to shift attention towards Pakistan’s internal affairs could not conceal the Afghan Taliban’s failure to prevent terrorist groups from using Afghan territory. Moreover, Pakistan reiterated that the Afghan Taliban regime is failing to act against militancy, citing the UN Security Council’s Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team’s 16th report (S/2025/796). The Foreign Ministry said the report estimated that around 6,000 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters were present in Afghanistan and documented Taliban support for the group. “These findings cannot credibly be dismissed as Pakistani propaganda. The regime must address this documented threat through concrete action rather than denial,” the Ministry said. It also criticised restrictions on girls’ education and violations of fundamental human rights under the Afghan Taliban regime. Moreover, Pakistan said it remained committed to dialogue but stressed that meaningful progress required Kabul to honour its counterterrorism commitments. Additionally, the ministry warned that Pakistan would take all necessary measures under international law to protect its citizens, sovereignty and territorial integrity. (“Info ministry calls out Afghan Taliban for deflecting attention from terrorist sanctuaries,” The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026)
HEALTH
Quarter of cancer patients at Karachi’s JPMC discontinue treatment due to prohibitive costs, experts report
On 12 October, Dawn reported that approximately 25 per cent of cancer patients at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre abandon treatment due to expensive newer therapies. The Breastcon 2026 conference highlighted that whilst the hospital provides free surgery and radiotherapy, immunotherapies and targeted treatments prove unaffordable for many. Oncology department head Dr Ghulam Haider stated complete cancer care costs three to four million rupees, with complications further escalating expenses. He appealed for permanent government assistance, noting charitable funding remains inconsistent. Dr Saima Zahoor reported that over 60 per cent of breast cancer patients experience diagnostic delays caused by social stigma, misconceptions, and costs. Experts called for organised screening, quality medicines and financial support considering patients’ circumstances. (“Due to high cost, 25pc of cancer patients at Karachi’s JPMC abandon treatment, experts say,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Sindh: Mental health crisis deepens as specialists serve only 10 districts, no policy for five years
On 12 October, The Express Tribune reported that Sindh faces severe mental health shortages, with 140 specialists serving only 10 districts, whilst remaining districts lack psychiatric services. Dr Karim Khawaja stated that over 30 per cent of Pakistan’s population suffers from depression and mental disorders, yet the province has had no mental health policy for five years. This absence complicates data collection and service assessment. Professor Muhammad Iqbal Afridi noted one in three Pakistanis suffer from psychological illness, compared to one in five globally. Professor Wajid Ali Akhunzada highlighted that one in four young people and one in five children face mental-health disorders. Experts emphasised Sindh needs comprehensive policy frameworks covering prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, specialist training and data collection. (“Sindh’s mental health gap leaves communities unsupported,” The Express Tribune, 12 October 2026)
JUDICIARY
Karachi lawyers condemn KP emergency, announce ‘black day’
On 12 October, Dawn reported that the Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) and Karachi Bar Association (KBA) had condemned the imposition of an emergency and governor’s rule by the Centre in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They also announced that 12 October would be a ‘black day.’ The SHCBA issued a statement that the move was undemocratic and described peaceful protest as a fundamental democratic right which no one should be deprived of. It also urged authorities to respect the fundamental rights of all citizens and take all required measures to protect democracy in its “true spirit.” The KBA also issued a statement wherein it urged all parties to respect the mandate of the citizens of KP and refrain from actions that could lead to political instability or undermine public confidence in democratic institutions. The KBA also announced the suspension of work at City Courts in Karachi from 11:30 am on 12 October, and a general body meeting to deliberate on the imposition. The association further cautioned that the principles of democratic governance, federalism and the fundamental rights of citizens guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan must not be compromised for political expediency. (“Lawyers in Karachi condemn emergency in KP, announce ‘black day’ today,” Dawn, 12 October 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Politics & governance
Arifa Noor, “The KP impasse,” Dawn, 13 October 2026
"Interestingly, the federal government has imposed an emergency as well as governor’s rule. The logic is hard to understand, though one lawyer suggested it may be because governor’s rule has a time limit while an emergency endorsed by parliament doesn’t. The federal government didn’t want a time limit or to leave the PTI government in place; hence, it used both. And with the kind of administrative measures taken, along with the cabinet announced, it doesn’t seem the new set-up is here for a short time."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036814/the-kp-impasse
Economy
Editorial, “Inequitable taxation,” Dawn, 13 October 2026
“Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has once more reviewed the latest incentive scheme to bring retailers into the tax net — and again, the meeting last week took place against disappointing results. Mr Aurangzeb says that the retailers’ tax scheme should not be seen as a one-year arrangement. That is an admission in itself. A simplified route, offered on easy terms, has not persuaded the sector to join, and the government is now preparing for a long wait. This is not the first attempt. Tajir Dost drew only about 58,000 registrations, according to reports, and was said to be falling short of its revenue target of Rs50bn. Before it came fixed-tax regimes, amnesties and reduced rates. Each ended with a new scheme being drawn up. Clearly, traders and wholesalers will not enter the system voluntarily, when staying out costs nothing."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036808/inequitable-taxation
Provinces
Nazir A. Jogezai, “Busting the myths,” Dawn, 13 October 2026
“Intellectual and wealthy Baloch are often a surprise for people in other parts of Pakistan. All preconceived notions stem from the stereotypical portrayals of the people of this vast province. As a result, the education, etiquette, intellect, and values of tolerance of the people of Balochistan are taken lightly."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2036810/busting-the-myths
Asad Ashraf Malik, “A city adrift: the broken altar of gold and dust,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026
“Before the iron tracks rusted and the avenues dissolved into salt and stone, Karachi stood as an ocean-kissed mirage of sovereign ambition - a gleaming beacon among the legendary jewels of Asia. It was a city born not of ancient feudal decrees, but of the fierce, unyielding pulse of the sea. Its white-stone facades reflected the golden brilliance of a coastal sun, its broad boulevards breathed with the rhythm of world trade, and its air carried the intoxicating scent of endless promise. Built by the relentless tide of hardworking migrants, merchants and visionaries, this once-modest fishing village arose from the sand to become the undisputed titan of the region, carrying the financial destiny of a young nation upon its broad, iron shoulders."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2634473/a-city-adrift-the-broken-altar-of-gold-and-dust
Health
Muhammad Siddique Ali Pirzada, “Priced out of survival,” The Express Tribune, 13 October 2026
“The state must recognise that access to cancer care is not a privilege reserved for those with sufficient means. No patient should have to choose between the possibility of survival and the financial security of their family. Allowing poverty to determine who receives treatment and who does not is a failure that no responsible healthcare system should accept."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2634469/priced-out-of-survival
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