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In Brief
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
KP governor's rule to end after six months, emergency to continue
On 29 October, The Express Tribune and The News International reported that Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry told the National Assembly on Wednesday that governor's rule in KP will end after six months while the emergency, which covers 12 badly affected districts, will remain until peace is restored. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a PKR 160 billion package for the province, mostly for those districts, and that those districts' police can seek federal help directly. He also said former chief minister Sohail Afridi rejected a draft agreement and had publicly refused to cooperate with security forces, and rejected opposition claims that the move was meant to seize mineral resources, saying foreign interest in those resources should not be read as an attempt to take them and that the PTI negotiating team lacked authority to take final decisions. ("Governor's rule to end after six months, NA told," The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026; "Governor's rule not about KP minerals: Tariq Fazal," The News International, 29 October 2026)
JUI-F chief says KP emergency misused the Constitution, seeks new "Charter of Democracy"
On 28 October, Dawn reported that JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman told the National Assembly the government had misused the Constitution in imposing governor's rule and an emergency in KP on 11 October, saying power was transferred "by force" rather than through public opinion and describing the province as having governor's rule in half and an emergency in the other half. He said his mediation had been undone when Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar told him the cabinet insisted on governor's rule, questioned the government's claim to have maintained law and order given Balochistan, defended his party's sacrifices against terrorism, and proposed a new "Charter of Democracy". Tariq Fazal Chaudhry replied that governor's rule lasts only six months, that the emergency applies to a few affected districts, and that members must choose between the state and the TTP and Afghanistan. ("Fazl accuses govt of 'misusing' Constitution when imposing emergency, governor's rule in KP," Dawn, 28 October 2026)
Peshawar court issues arrest warrants for Sohail Afridi in Radio Pakistan attack case
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that an anti-terrorism court in Peshawar on Wednesday issued arrest warrants for former KP chief minister Sohail Afridi, former ministers Taimur Saleem Jhagra and Kamran Bangash, PTI Peshawar district president Irfan Saleem and party worker Aamir Chamkani. This followed a supplementary charge sheet in the case over the 9 and 10 May attack on the Radio Pakistan building in Peshawar, in which more than 80 people were already named. The judge refused a defence request for more time, with prosecutors saying NADRA and Punjab Forensic Science Agency analysis of CCTV footage confirmed the five were present, and adjourned the hearing until 4 November. ("ATC issues Sohail Afridi's arrest warrants," The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
Government-PPP talks end without deal on Right of Way Bill
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that the second round of negotiations between the government and the PPP on proposed legislation ended on Wednesday, with both sides agreeing to keep talking. Sources said the PPP maintained its firm opposition to the Right of Way Bill, formally the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organisation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which amends the 1996 telecom law to speed up deployment of fibre cables, towers and 5G networks, and asked how a mobile tower could be installed by force on privately owned land. ("Govt, PPP conclude legislation talks," The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
KP reviews 74 laws passed under PTI government
On 28 October, Dawn reported that after governor's rule and the emergency were imposed, the KP law department formed a committee to review 74 laws passed by the provincial assembly during the PTI government, with recommendations due to the competent authority within seven days. The review covers laws across 20 departments, including prosecution, universities, medical teaching institutions and the assembly's powers and privileges, and sources said the Prosecution Service Amendment Act 2025 could be amended or withdrawn, a matter of interest because of its possible bearing on the prosecution of the May 9 cases. ("KP to review PTI-era legislation," Dawn, 28 October 2026)
LHC judge Mohsin Kayani resigns over judicial independence concerns
On 28 October, Dawn reported that Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani resigned from the Lahore High Court on Wednesday, citing health concerns after a recent surgery and "reasons of conscience." His letter to the president said the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments had compromised the independence of the high courts and that the executive's growing control, including over judges' appointments and transfers, had eroded public confidence, adding that he would return to legal practice. He had disposed of more than 23,000 cases and was due to retire on 10 February 2032. He was transferred from the Islamabad High Court to the LHC in April, which dropped him to 12th on the seniority list, and days before resigning he had been assigned only to a single bench in Rawalpindi. ("'Conscience does not permit': LHC's Justice Kayani resigns, cites executive's growing control over judiciary," Dawn, 28 October 2026)
SECURITY
Balochistan: Nine militants killed in security operations in Kachhi and Wadh districts
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that security forces had killed nine militants during two intelligence-based operations in Kachhi and Wadh districts of Balochistan, according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). In Kachhi, seven militants were killed following an exchange of fire at a suspected hideout, while a separate operation in Wadh targeted militants whose movements had been tracked by security forces, with two being killed. (“Nine terrorists killed in two IBOs,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
KP: Police constable killed in shooting in Mirali tehsil
On 28 October, Dawn reported that police constable Asmatullah was shot dead by unidentified assailants at Eidak Bazaar in Mirali tehsil, North Waziristan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attack occurred at around 16:00 on Tuesday, and police launched an investigation to identify those responsible and establish the motive. Local sources said Asmatullah was from Bannu district and also a member of the police peace committee there. No group claimed responsibility, and the identities of the attackers remained unknown. The killing comes amid continued attacks targeting police personnel in the province. (“Policeman martyred in North Waziristan attack,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
ENVIRONMENT
Sindh to host major energy and climate conference on 03-04 November
On 28 October, Dawn reported that seven organisations would jointly organise a two-day Sindh Energy and Climate Conference in Karachi between 03 and 04 November, bringing together policymakers, experts, climate activists and affected communities, including Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The conference aims to develop an energy policy for Sindh, addressing electricity access, renewable energy, climate finance and the transition away from fossil fuels. Organisers highlighted disparities in access to solar power, the high cost of panels for rural households and barriers to expanding wind energy. Discussions will also cover zero-emission transport and a heat action plan for next summer, with a focus on ensuring that clean-energy investments reach underserved communities across the province. (“Two-day Sindh energy and climate moot announced,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
ECONOMY
Economists warn of persistent inflation amid rising oil prices
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that the State Bank of Pakistan's (SBP) decision to raise its policy rate by 50 basis points to 12 per cent has cast a shadow over the economic recovery. Economists warned that persistent energy and food price pressures could keep monetary policy tight while higher borrowing costs weigh on private investment, employment and growth. The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) economist expects energy prices to remain elevated in the near future amid fears of another wave of US-Israeli attacks on Iran after the US midterm elections and the possibility of Iranian retaliation against neighbouring Gulf states. This outlook leaves limited room for monetary easing in the coming months, as persistent external tensions could prolong energy price pressures and complicate the inflation outlook. SDPI Deputy Executive Director and founding head of Policy Solutions said the 50-basis-point increase was expected as double-digit inflation, a recent surge in global oil prices and fears of a prolonged US-Iran conflict worsened Pakistan's inflation and economic outlook. (“More rate hikes may follow,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
Lower insurance costs for maritime trade expected to benefit commercial activity worth USD 3 billion
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that the Minister of Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry pointed out that Pakistan's removal from the Joint War Committee's list could help reduce additional insurance costs for maritime trade. The move is expected to benefit commercial activity worth around USD 3 billion. He was addressing a symposium titled "Pakistan's Maritime Future: Maritime Security, Ocean Governance and Blue Economy", organised by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs. He also highlighted proposed investments, including a steel project worth about USD 680 million at Port Qasim, an integrated maritime industrial complex valued at USD 1.4 billion and a multipurpose terminal estimated at around USD 350 million. He said the government was also working to expand Pakistan National Shipping Corporation's fleet, promote shrimp farming and strengthen the fisheries value chain. (“Insurance costs for maritime trade to fall,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
Karachi Port Trust handles vessel carrying 51,000 metric tonnes of wheat
On 28 October, The Express Tribune reported that Karachi Port Trust (KPT) said a vessel carrying 51,000 metric tonnes of wheat has docked at the port, with handling operations underway at Berths 16 and 17. It highlights the port’s role in ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities as well as food security. Another geared vessel, MV Great Rainbow, carrying 59,132.19 metric tonnes of wheat, is expected to arrive on 3 November. The total shipment of wheat would then amount to over 110,000 metric tonnes. The operations underscore KGTML’s capacity to handle large volumes of bulk commodities and the port’s contribution to maintaining the smooth flow of the country’s imports. Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting of the Steering Committee on Wheat to review the country’s overall grain availability and examine import plans aimed at maintaining a steady supply in the domestic market. The federal government had also formulated a National Wheat Policy after nearly four decades and fixed the wheat price at PKR 4,500 per maund. (“51000 metric tonnes of wheat bulk carrier docks on Karachi port,” The Express Tribune, 28 October 2026)
Pakistan Petroleum Limited posts profits worth PKR 99 billion after tax
On 28 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL) posted profit after tax of PKR 99 billion and recorded its highest-ever collections of PKR 284 billion in FY26. This was disclosed at PPL’s 75th annual general meeting, attended by a large number of shareholders who approved the financial statements for FY26 along with the auditors’ and directors’ reports. A final cash dividend of 60 per cent on ordinary shares was also approved, bringing the total dividend for the year to 120 per cent. The company drilled seven exploration and four development wells during FY26. Average production remained 649mmcfd, around 3 per cent higher than the previous year, despite gas curtailment. PPL made 11 discoveries, two in operated and nine in partner-operated assets, adding 242 BCF to 2P reserves. According to a press release, PPL secured eight offshore blocks, two as operator and six as partner, following successful participation in Pakistan’s Offshore Bidding Round 2025. (“Pakistan Petroleum Ltd earns Rs 99bn profit, makes 11 discoveries,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
Committee finalises comprehensive plan for Small and Medium Enterprises
On 28 October, Dawn reported that a committee constituted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will submit a comprehensive plan within four weeks to reorganise the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA). The committee, chaired by Adviser to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, observed that SMEs needed easy access to finance, business advisory services and institutional support. The prime minister formed the committee after SMEDA had remained dormant for years, recognising the importance of promoting small businesses. The meeting was informed that SMEs accounted for about 99 per cent of business enterprises in Pakistan and contributed around 78 per cent of employment. Data showed that about 61 per cent of SMEs, around 4.33 million units, were in Punjab, followed by 1.33 million in Sindh. Of the total, 3.20 million units were in retail and wholesale, while only 0.69 million were in manufacturing. The government examined regulatory models for SME promotion in India, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, the US and Canada. (“Govt moves to revive small and medium enterprises development authority,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
EXTERNAL
Sri Lankan envoy urges bolder trade push as Pakistan’s exports to Sri Lanka outstrip imports fivefold
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that Sri Lanka’s Consul General in Karachi, PK Sanjeewa Pattiwila, said Pakistan’s exports to Sri Lanka stand at around USD 450 million, against roughly USD 90 million in the opposite direction. He said the gap reflects untapped potential under a 2005 bilateral trade agreement that grants duty-free access to both countries. Speaking at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Pattiwila urged both sides to address technical barriers and review restrictive measures. He said both countries had taken an overly defensive approach to trade. KCCI President Talat Mahmood identified pharmaceuticals, textiles, rubber products and food processing as avenues for joint ventures. (“Sri Lanka trade gap at $450m to $90m,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
Pakistan and Qatar near revised LNG pricing deal
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan and Qatar are close to a revised LNG deal after several rounds of price negotiations. State-owned PSO and QatarEnergy hold two supply contracts expiring in 2031, both of which have been triggered for price review. Pakistan had sought a Brent-linked price of 10.20 per cent for the second contract. Qatar declined that request but reportedly agreed to 11.36 per cent, before its final offer was set at 11.96 per cent for both contracts. The offer covers 66 cargoes a year, against 108 under the existing deal. PSO is reportedly seeking government approval to seal the agreement by 3 November. (“Pakistan, Qatar close to revised LNG deal,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
Pakistan warns of sharp deterioration in Iran nuclear dispute, urges diplomacy at UN
On 28 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan warned the situation over Iran’s nuclear file had sharply deteriorated, urging restraint and diplomacy. Acting Permanent Representative Ambassador Usman Jadoon made the remarks at a UN Security Council briefing on Iran and nuclear non-proliferation. He said mounting tensions and a lack of consensus were making a diplomatic settlement more urgent. Jadoon called for the International Atomic Energy Agency to address technical questions without political interference. He cited the Islamabad memorandum of understanding signed in June as evidence that diplomacy can deliver progress. Pakistan also acknowledged support from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt and China. (“Pakistan warns against escalation in Iran crisis, urges diplomacy,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
PROVINCES
KP: Election commission directs local elections to be held in districts post delimitation
On 28 October, Dawn reported that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had ordered local government elections to be conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts where delimitation was completed. This comes after the provincial government requested the elections to be deferred, over the law and order situation and the imposition of emergency. In its order for elections, the ECP excluded 12 districts with a tense security situation which were under the authority of the Area Representative and Development Council (ARDC). These districts were deemed to lack a conducive atmosphere for conducting elections at present. The ECP order also directed the adjustment of the number of village councils and category-wise reserved seats according to current revenue limits in seven districts. (“ECP orders immediate local body polls in KP districts demarcated, sans those under ARDC,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
Sindh: FAO report cautions province over water management rules
On 28 October, Dawn reported that a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) had warned the Sindh government over maintenance of its available land and water resources. The FAO informed through its report that multi-layered regulations and heterogeneous approaches towards actual water supply and access were complicating existing water and land management. It cited the example of how a water regime reliant on availability and access had replaced the traditional seasonal irrigation water allocations and canal operations. According to the report, gaps and inaccuracies in public sector data could lead to inaccurate water accounting profiles. The report particularly flagged data from the Crop Reporting Service (CRS), which required improvements across a wide range of areas, including crop survey methodology and land boundaries. Additionally, the CRS did not provide information on cropping patterns prevalent in well-irrigated and rain-fed areas, or show a significant increase in the number of those areas. Other problems included the failure of standard operating procedures to manage current water supply operations, and the widening gap between formally allocated water and actual water access and use. The report advised a holistic approach from the provincial government which focused upon regional and sectoral water use efficiency, alongside a mechanism for regular annual and seasonal sector-based provincial water accounts and water balances. (“UN agency highlights ‘complex’ water management of Sindh,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
KP: World Bank says energy project witnessing “moderately unsatisfactory” progress
On 28 October, Dawn reported that the World Bank had stated progress on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Hydropower and Renewable Energy Development project was “moderately unsatisfactory”. While the institution rated the overall implementation progress as “moderately satisfactory”, it described the overall risk rating as “substantial.” According to the bank, there was a “moderate” risk in the political and governance and technical design categories, but a “substantial” one in environmental and social parameters, fiduciary issues and macroeconomic and institutional capacity. It was further informed that the World Bank had processed restructuring of the overall project for the alignment of its scope and financing with implementation priorities at the request of the government. The World Bank issued two loans of market-based and concessional development for the project worth about USD 440 million, out of which about USD 37.95 million has been disbursed so far. (“World Bank rates progress on KP hydropower, renewable energy project ‘moderately unsatisfactory’,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
Sindh: Government looks to reduce compliance costs for businesses with reforms
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had undertaken a review of regulatory reforms towards improving the business and investment climate in the province. There were 58 approved reforms projected to save up to Pakistani rupees 67.38 billion annually in compliance costs. The meeting looked into digital business facilitation, the integration of provincial and federal business portals, Pakistan's performance under the Business Ready(B-READY) framework of the World Bank and the proposed Sindh Asaan Karobar Act. Shah said the Sindh government was committed towards facilitating investment through the modernisation of regulations and promotion of digital governance. The CM emphasised that reforms with simpler procedures are needed to ensure benefits for businesses and investors. The reforms contain a variety of measures, including reducing unnecessary inspections, expanding digital applications, simplified licensing and registration, and removal of duplicate documentation. The package of 58 reforms consists of 43 for fisheries and aquaculture and 15 for dairy and beverages. Additionally, the measures are expected to save 798 days and 643 days in processing time, respectively, for these two sectors. A broader national programme is expected to save businesses over Rs 163 billion annually, with 581 reforms across eight packages. (“Sindh eyes Rs67b savings from reforms,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
HEALTH
Sindh govt examines surveillance measures as mpox cases cross 100
On 29 October, The Express Tribune reported that Sindh had reported another case of mpox, bringing the total number of infections this year to 100. The Health Department convened a meeting under the chairmanship of the Director General of Health Services Sindh, reviewing surveillance, early diagnosis and measures taken to contain the virus transmission. Measures for the timely reporting of infections were another key point raised. Infection prevention and control at public and private hospitals and healthcare centres, and improved coordination between the health department and other health institutions were the measures looked into. The woman who tested positive was moved to the intensive care unit of the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital at Nipa, where seven other mpox patients were currently receiving treatment. Figures from the health department showed there were 98 mpox infections and 12 deaths in Sindh this year. (“Mpox caseload in Sindh soars past 100,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
SOCIETY
Poverty rose to 28.9 per cent in 24-25, planning minister acknowledges
On 29 October, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s poverty rate had risen to 28.9 per cent in 2024-25, reversing earlier gains, according to Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. Working with the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) of the University of Oxford, the government is planning to revise the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), potentially incorporating climate shocks, demographic pressures, nutrition, digital exclusion and insecurity. Officials are also considering publishing poverty estimates by political constituency to guide targeted public investment. Iqbal attributed the deterioration to political instability, economic crises, policy discontinuity and climate shocks, while warning that limited development spending was undermining investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure. Pakistan’s economic growth has also remained below population growth, intensifying concerns over unemployment and poverty. (“Poverty climbs back to 28.9%,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026)
AF-PAK
Pakistan rejects Afghan account of Angoor Adda firing, calling it “fabrication of lies”
On 28 October, Dawn reported that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting dismissed a statement by Afghanistan’s defence ministry on the firing at the Angoor Adda border area as a fabrication of lies. Afghan security forces had opened unprovoked fire on Pakistani border posts and residential areas on Tuesday, killing one resident and injuring five. Afghanistan’s defence ministry claimed Pakistani drones had targeted an Angoor Adda bazaar and a commissioner’s office in Paktika province. The ministry said Pakistani forces responded effectively, inflicting heavy casualties and destroying seven Afghan posts. It accused the Afghan Taliban regime of repeatedly fabricating stories for its own people. (“Pakistan terms Afghan claims regarding Angoor Adda incident ‘fabrication of lies’,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
KP Governor warns Afghan Taliban that attacks on Pakistanis will not be tolerated
On 28 October, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned cross-border firing from Afghanistan and told the Afghan Taliban regime to have no illusions. The firing at Angoor Adda in Lower South Waziristan killed one resident and injured five members of a family after a mortar landed on their house. Kundi praised the armed forces for their swift and decisive response. He said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had sacrificed thousands of lives in the fight against terrorism. Officials said Pakistani forces engaged multiple Afghan Taliban posts and mortar positions, forcing them to abandon their positions. The Lower South Waziristan deputy commissioner confirmed the casualties and damage to several shops. (“‘Have no illusions’: Kundi tells Afghan Taliban Pakistan will not tolerate attacks after Angoor Adda firing,” Dawn, 28 October 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Judicial independence
Editorial, “Judicial transparency,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026
"The resignation of a former puisne judge of the Islamabad High Court has stirred a debate within the judicial fraternity. Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani decided to lay down his robes and return to legal practice, citing personal reasons. However, he also penned a letter to the President of the Republic, stating that there were "reasons of conscience" behind his stepping down. The government and key stakeholders in the constitutional process must reflect and introspect on these critical observations. The need of the hour is to ensure that the organs of the state continue to function independently and that the transparency of the judiciary is preserved. The outgoing, independent-minded judge has left behind a valid point to ponder."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2637454/judicial-transparency
Provinces
Inam Ul Haque, “Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa - irony and antidote,” The Express Tribune, 29 October 2026
“Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa once again is in the eye of the storm. The province has a peculiar sociology, shaped primarily by tribal heritage, Islamism, Pashtun cultural structures and a predominantly rural population, mainly living under the tenants of social codes like the pervasive Pakhtunwali, or the lesser prevalent Islamzoona and Turizoona in the erstwhile tribal districts. Traditionally, there is intense competition among the elected and non-elected elite of the province, and their intercession with Islamabad for appointments, especially for Governorship. Those appearing very principled and politically stoic also run this race behind the scenes through not-so-hidden manipulations."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2637458/khyber-pakhtunkhwa-irony-and-antidote
External
Khurram Husain, “A huddle in Tehran,” Dawn, 29 October 2026
“An Iran that seeks pre-eminence through a regional architecture is a neighbour Pakistan can work with, and help shape from the inside. An Iran that seeks it through reparations, tolls, and coercion would place us in an impossible position between our western neighbour and the Gulf states on which so much of our economy depends. The huddle does not answer last month’s question. But it shows that the option of building a future is on the table, in Iran’s own words, and that its neighbours are prepared to engage on those terms. That is a milestone. Whether it becomes a trajectory depends on whether the voices in Tehran speaking the language of non-aggression win the argument at home, and whether Washington, after its elections on Nov 3, lets them."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2040632/a-huddle-in-tehran
Air pollution
Editorial, “Polluted priorities,” Dawn, 29 October 2026
"Lahore is choking again, and the government’s answer is to send more machines onto its streets. On Wednesday, its air quality index reached 296, putting children, outdoor workers, and the elderly at particular risk. Yet Punjab plans to acquire 30 more truck-mounted fog cannons. These can suppress road dust locally, but their ability to reduce the fine particles most harmful to health remains questionable. Authorities must explain what the existing fleet has achieved in terms of measurable pollution reduction before spending more public money."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2040628/polluted-priorities
Politics & governance
Editorial, “Restructuring plans,” Dawn, 29 October 2026
“THE PPP appears quite perturbed over the fact that the creation of new provinces or administrative units continues to be discussed. Speaking at an event in Karachi on Tuesday, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari asserted that no one outside Sindh could decide its future. “So we should now put a full stop to this conversation as well.”"
https://www.dawn.com/news/2040629/restructuring-plans
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