Politics

Suicide attack at Quetta IGP house kills seven, injures 681

by admin / May 13, 2013

QUETTA: The police chief of restive southwestern province of Balochistan narrowly escaped a suicide attack Sunday that killed at least seven people and wounded 68 others, officials said.

Inspector General Mushtaq Sukhera had just entered his residence in the provincial capital Quetta when a suicide bomber in a vehicle laden with explosives blew themselves up outside.

“At least two policemen, three paramilitary soldiers and one passer by were killed outside the inspector general’s residence and 46 others were wounded,” Home Secretary Akbar Durrani told AFP.

A huge amount of explosives were packed into the vehicle and the blast left a deep crater, with the explosion shattering nearby windows and sending debris flying, he said.

Senior police official Mobin Ahmed told media the police chief was safe, while another police official said the blast was so loud it was heard all over the city.

Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is plagued by slamist

militancy, attacks on the Shia Muslims and a separatist Baloch insurgency.

IGP Quetta says an investigation into the bombing has been launched.(AFP)

Geo Pakistan Shahbaz Sharif visits politcal rival Imran Khan in hospital2

by admin / May 8, 2013

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) firebrand leader, Mian Shahbaz Sharif Tuesday night visited an injured Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, Imran Khan, who was rushed to hospital with head injuries after falling off a makeshift lift taking him onto the stage for an election rally,reported.

Shahbaz arrived here at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital to inquire after the health of his main electoral rival, where he was under intensive medical care, sources said.

Shahbaz, who leaves no opportunity to open fire on his main political rival go to waste, wished a retired hurt cricketer-turned politician to get well soon. A shaken but not stirred Imran Khan thanked him for this gesture of goodwill.

Advising a three-week rest, the doctors have given a very optimistic prognosis of Khan’s recovery.

Earlier, right after his fall, television footage showed Khan bleeding from the head as he was carried by aides through the crowd at the event in the country’s second largest city, Lahore.

The 60-year-old, who has undertaken a punishing schedule of daily rallies but who is known for his physical fitness, tumbled along with several of his staff, seemingly after one of them lost his balance.

Khan was being lifted on a fork-lifter with five people but lost his balance and fell when a sixth one tried to climb up. Khan hit the lifter before falling to the ground.

“Imran Khan has one head injury and two spinal cord fractures,” Doctor Faisal Sultan, chief executive officer of Shaukat Khanum Hospital told reporters in a late night statement.

“But he is stable. He is conscious and he is recognising people,” the doctor said.

He will be kept under observation for a day and on Wednesday a team of doctors will further examine him and suggest the future course, he added.

“The other three men who fell with Imran Khan are very much OK. They were not admitted,” Khan’s spokesman Zubair Niazi told media.

In a televised statement from his hospital bed Imran Khan urged people to vote for his party.

“I did whatever I could for this country. Now remember 11th May, come out and vote for PTI without considering its candidates, just vote for PTI and its ideology only to end politics of personalities and communities,” he said.

People at the rally venue, where thousands had gathered, expressed sadness.

“Passion and love for Imran Khan brought all these people here. We are still here, all we can do is pray now,” said a PTI supporter.

Television images showed Khan being transported on a stretcher, his head swathed in bandages.

Hundreds of well-wishers and party supporters gathered outside the hospital, chanting “Long Live Imran Khan”, an eyewitness said.

Khan’s main rival, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is tipped to win the election, conveyed his sympathies, his Pakistan Muslim League-N party spokesman Siddiqul Farooq said.

Later Sharif, addressing a rally in Rawalpindi, announced the cancellation of campaign activities on Wednesday.

PTI, in a Facebook posting, announced the suspension of election rallies scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tribal clash leaves five dead in Balochistan’s Jhal Magsi area3

by admin / May 7, 2013

QUETTA: At least five persons were killed during exchange of fire between two groups in Jhal Magsi district of Balochistan on Tuesday morning, according to Levies sources.

A Levies official Abdul Jabbar told  that five tribesmen had died and that both groups used heavy weapons against each other in the clash that was the result of a tribal feud.

He said the bodies were shifted to Gandawah hospital for postmortem.

Levies and police reached the area and investigations into the incident went underway.

Earlier in April this year, an independent election candidate, Abdul Fateh Magsi, and three other persons from Balochistan’s Jhal Magsi area were killed by unknown assailants, prompting the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to postpone the elections in the areas PB -32 constituency.

According to the police and relatives of the deceased, was kidnapped on Monday night and his bullet-riddled body was found on Tuesday morning.

Do not vote for parties with militant wings, Imran to Karachiites4

by admin / May 7, 2013

KARACHI: Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan says he wants to give Karachiites a choice to decide whether they wanted to “change” their future, 

“More than to reach out to PTI workers I was here to offer Karachiites at large an opportunity to be the part of the change we want to bring about in Pakistan. The choice is theirs”, PTI leader said in a press talk at the Quaid-e-Azam International Airport here.

He urged the people to elect PTI to government for their better future while advising them not to vote for the political parties with militant elements under their wings.

In order to salvage the financial hub of Pakistan from the jagged jaws of organized violent crime some major reforms would need to be made, adding he said it should start with the disbanding of political parties’ militant wings on war footings.

He explained that the parties with militant wings would never reform the police department as to them it would be like shooting in their own foot.

Owing to the lawlessness, rampant in the largest city of Pakistan, the future of its youth was growing dimmer and dimmer, Khan said sadly.

“Just one business seems to be booming in Karachi, which is kidnapping for ransom”, said he.

Karachi had been suffering from unrest for the past 10 years, particularly over the last 5 years, it needed to end before it was too late, Khan added.

Replying to a question, he said Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) was PTI’s main rival in Karachi and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the rest of the Sindh province.

Commenting on his not addressing a single election gathering in Karachi, he said, unfortunately the law & order situation prevailing in the city was stopping them from holding election rallies here.

“God forbid if something untoward comes to pass during a gathering it will mar our campaign around Pakistan”, said he.

To a question, as to how many seats would PTI win in Karachi, Imran said: “I am afraid I cannot give you a figure but hopefully we will try to take our best shot.”

Talking around a question, he refrained from dropping any clues about PTI’s post-vote allies.

Will not let Islam be hijacked: President Zardari5

by admin / November 23, 2012

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari said the Developing 8 (D-8) group is a group of eight democratic nations that have the ability to work on their agenda, adding that the D-8 can help cement relations between the eight countries.

President Zardari said this while addressing the D-8 conference after taking over chairmanship from Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for two years.

The conference was attended by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, Advisor to Bangladesh Prime Minister Syed Gohar, Deputy Malaysian Prime Minisyer Syed Gohar, Deputy Malaysian Prime Minister Muhauddin Yaseen and Egyptian Vice President Mahmus Mekki as the Egyptian President Mohammad Mursi could not attend.

While addressing the conference President Zardari condemned the Israeli attacks on Gaza and said Palestinians have been awaiting promised self determination for decades and the D-8 nations must look into this matter.

Recognizing Egyptian President Morsi’s efforts to negotiate peace between Hamas and Israel, President Zardari congratulated the Egyptian premier, adding that Pakistan was proud of his leadership.

President Zardari appreciated Indonesia’s support for Pakistan and said that the nation has a glowing record of standing by Pakistan in its hour of need.

While speaking about the issue of terrorism, President Zardari said that terrorist groups seek to impose their agenda but Pakistan will not let Islam be hijacked, adding that Pakistan will continue to fight against the dark and destructive agenda of terrorists.

Speaking about the D-8 nations collectively, President Zardari said that the D-8 was a group of very important nations and their relations were beyond ordinary partnership.

Endorsing the core values of D-8, namely peace, dialogue, cooperation, justice and democracy, President Zardari said that the D-8 nations have the potential to advance the long term objectives of their agenda, adding that Islamabad will build upon the roadmap.

Reiterating the importance of democracy, President Zardari reminded that democracy was at the very heart of Pakistan’s identity as it was founded through democratic means.

Calling for D-8 countries to work as a catalyst for peace and prosperity in the world, President Zardari said Pakistan and its people want peace, adding that the Pakistani government is making unprecedented moves to make peace with India and also supports the peace process in Afghanistan.

Balochistan: 77 doctors granted bail, strike continues6

by admin / November 21, 2012

QUETTA: Judicial Magistrate in the city here granted bail to the 77 doctors including the 12 arrested and 67 who offered arrest after a clash of their protest rally with the police, while the personal securities are being submitted for their release,

Two days ago, twelve doctors were arrested from their rally taken out in protest against the government failing to recover the abducted eye specialist, Dr. Saeed Khan and over some other demands, while the other 67 doctors had voluntarily offered arrest agitating over the police highhandedness.

Later, bail petitions were filed in the court of Judicial Magistrate on behalf of all the arrested doctors. Yesterday, the court had ordered release of two doctors on parole, while the court today accepted the bail petitions of all the 77 held doctors on the security of Rs1,00,00 each.

The doctors have gone on strike that has shut down the OPDs, operation theaters and emergency services in all private and government hospitals in the province of Blaochistan causing immense problems to the thousands of patients who call almost everyday call on the hospitals and return without any medical help.

The patients have demanded that if the government cannot recover the abducted Dr. Saeed Khan and get the strike ended, then some alternative arrangements be immediately made for providing medical assistance to them.

The provincial government though belatedly has made some arrangements for the treatment of patients at CMH Cantt besides making more proactive Lady Dufferin and Mission hospitals working under the auspicious of private and welfare NGOs.

CMH sources said that all resources are being employed for providing medical aid to the patients.

India hangs Mumbai gunman Ajmal Kasab7

by admin / November 21, 2012

NEW DELHI: The sole surviving Mumbai gunman, Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, was quietly hanged in India for his involvement in the 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai,

Reports have it that he was transferred to Pune’s Yerwada jail from Mumbai in a covert manner as Indian government did not want to draw too much hype to this high-profile hanging.

The executioner put the noose around Kasab’s neck and pulled the lever at 7:30 AM Indian Standard Time. The doctors declared him dead soon after the hanging, said media.

He was shifted to Yerwada Cental Jail from Mumbai as it was the nearest prison equipped with gallows. Reports are also doing rounds in Indian media as to who executed Kasab for Yerwada jail did not have a dedicated public executioner.

Government of India had code-named Kasab’s hanging as “Operation X”, reports added.

Maharashtra Home Minister RR Patil in a press conference confirmed that Ajmal Kasab was hanged till death in Yerwada jail.

“Kasab’s hanging is a tribute to the martyrs of Mumbai attacks”, said he talking to newsmen at his residence.

Moreover, Indian media also reported that Kasab’s body would not be handed over to Pakistan.

Kasab neither left a will behind nor did he have a last wish to make

before his hanging, reports added.

Earlier on Tuesday, the President of India Pranab Mukherjee had rejected the mercy petition filed by Ajmal Kasab.

He was sentenced to death for his involvement in the November 26, 2008 terror attack on Mumbai in which 166 people including foreigners were killed.

Earlier in October, the Indian Home Ministry had rejected the mercy plea of Kasab. The ministry had sent its recommendation to President Pranab Mukherjee.

Reportedly, he was kept in a bomb-proof and an egg-shaped cell at the maximum security Arthur Road Jail in Mumbai, from where the Indian government Kasab secretly shifted him to Pune’s Yerwada Central Jail.

The Indian Supreme Court upheld Kasab’s conviction and death sentence in August this year.

Kasab was the only terrorist captured alive after the attacks in Mumbai that began on November 26, 2008.

Pakistan Developing Combat Drones8

by admin / November 20, 2012

Pakistan is on the edge of becoming a member of an top level list of nations able of production unmanned airplane able of eliminating as well as neighbor’s, a mature defense formal has statements.
Publicly, Islamabad, which formally things to deadly drone hits performed by the CIA along its edge with Afghanistan, says it is only creating remote-controlled airplane for monitoring requirements.
But the other day, during a significant hands reasonable organised in Karachi, army authorities briefed some of Pakistan”s nearest companions about initiatives by the army to create its own fight unmanned antenna automobile (UAV).
"The international associates were quite thrilled by what Pakistan has obtained," said the formal, who was carefully engaged with planning the four-day Worldwide Defence Display and Meeting (Ideas). "They were briefed about a UAV that can be equipped and has the ability to bring a device payload."
The formal said Pakistan desired to show to helpful nations, generally Chicken and the Beach, that it can be self-sufficient in a technological innovation that is revolutionising combat and which is currently covered with a few nations that do not easily discuss the ability.
"It does not have the performance as well as as good as Predator," he said, discussing the US fight drone commonly used to strike militant objectives. "But it does are available."
He provided no information about the abilities of the airplane, or even its name.
Huw Williams, an professional on unmanned techniques at Jane”s Defence Weekly, indicated questions that Pakistan could have prevailed in advancing very far from the "pretty basic" little reconnaissance drones, which the nation openly displayed at the weaponry display, such as the Shahpar and Uqab airplane designed by the state-owned variety International Professional and Defence Alternatives.
"The small techniques are not significantly beyond that of a design airplane," he said. "But the bigger, long-endurance drones are a phase up in technological innovation across the panel."
Only the US and Israel are currently considered to have drones that can flame missiles. Chinese suppliers and Chicken are also operating on large-scale fight drones.
Both nations displayed designs of drones at the expansive Karachi conference center, which engaged Pakistani organizations promotion everything from weapons that capture around sides to water aquariums designed to fox monitoring airplane.
The big statements about Pakistan”s creating drone potential features the tremendous attention in the technological innovation from military around the world.
"Everyone has been asking us whether our drones can bring weaponry," said Raja Sabri Khan, us president of Incorporated Characteristics, a organization that revealed off a number of little and mid-size reconnaissance drones. "But that”s a business for the big young children only."
Khan has been purposely refocusing his company”s initiatives on small drones, many of which are released manually, which are mostly suitable for private use.
A Pakistani army colonel participating the exhibition, after lately completing a trip battling against militants in the country”s edge area, said such little drones were a important device.
"We have these little drones, but not enough of them and we do not always get them when we have functions," said the colonel, who did not wish to be known as. "They are fantastic for monitoring the Taliban, their motions and deployments."
It was the 7th hands reasonable organised by Pakistan designed to show off the country”s defense market.
Organisers admitted that this year had not been a significant commercial achievements but were satisfied with the turnout after the last occasion truly had to be terminated.
Several participants said Pakistani organizations – many of which are straight possessed by the country”s army – provided a less expensive substitute to creating nations looking to buy everything from aquariums to pc simulators used to practice aviators.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi and the Dry Cleaning Factories of PTI9

by admin / November 20, 2012

As noticed after PTI jalsa in Lahore, the breeze flow has began to strike towards Imran Khan and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. Lahore jalsa, as considered by many, had a stimulative impact on governmental employees, and management, of other events who are currently unhappy with their top steel and are looking out for choices to either leap delivers or use as negotiating snacks with their present managers.

PTI’s position on such turncoats is quite exciting. Originally Imran Khan was very company that no one without a fresh history shall be approved in PTI. However, now he declares that as the celebration is in development level it is start for all with no obvious data file crime error situations on them, and it gives selection passes to only those applicants who are greenest of all. Some rephrase this to say PTI is a dry washing manufacturer and all who get into it, keep their data file crime error behind.

One of the latest example of a turncoat becoming a member of PTI is Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the ex-Foreign Reverend of Pakistan and Mature Innovator of PPP. Few times returning Shah Mehmood Qureshi reconciled from Parliament and remaining PPP. Imran Khan stated in those days that Qureshi is going to be a part of PTI soon. Qureshi, a professional politician as he is, did not revealed his cards until the end and performed along with Nawaz Sharif, providing away feelers like he is all set to be a part of PML-N. However, on Nov 27 he declared at Ghotki that he is becoming a member of PTI.

This is indeed a big obtain for PTI. However, it is yet not certain what is actual position of Shah Mehmood Qureshi in PTI. Will he be #2 to Imran Khan or take a position as another Mature Leader?

Syed Mohammad Rashid Shah, huge son of Pir Pagara, has also signed up with PTI. Marvi Memon is also stated to be a part of PTI, most probably in Karachi jalsa on Dec Twenty fifth. She is acutely following PTI and was also seen at Ghotki occasion.

Imran Khan is against position quo? right? So if Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Hussain Qureshi and Saen Mohammad Rashid Shah are not position quo, then what is it?

From 2D to 3D- The Battle for Lahore10

by admin / November 16, 2012

With the next general elections due shortly, we will witness the most lethal and sanguinary of all political battles in Lahore. Lahore- A bastion of PML-N, challenged by PTI, has now become the epicenter of all the political activities in the upper Punjab. The scenario was never what it is now! In the general elections of 2008 PML-N had bagged 11 out of 13 national assembly seats in Lahore. It was 17% of their total seats all over Pakistan. Then suddenly we saw that the sands of time started pouring against them. This dates back to 30th October.

PTI mesmerized the whole of Pakistan by its grand show in Lahore on 30th October, 2011. People had thronged to Minar e Pakistan just to support Imran Khan. His every single word was cheered and highly applauded. The crowd of thousands reverberated with every single uttering of his. People entrusted him to be their savior; the Messiah who would liberate them from the jaws of cupidity, mendacity and depravity. The entire Lahore knew just one thing; just one incantation i-e “Vote for Imran, Vote for Change”. This is from where the actual journey of PTI began and the think-tanks of PML-N had to do some grueling brainstorming.

PTI, after its surge in Punjab, has posed a serious threat to PML-N. Though the leadership of PML-N claims to be unaffected by the newly emerged PTI, but actually their nerves are jangling, for they are being thoroughly challenged. PTI has chalked-out a comprehensive strategy for trouncing PML-N in Lahore and PML-N are well-aware of the situation and are trying to keep things smooth at their end.

With youth blindly adoring Imran and his penetration deep into the strata, it will not be untenable to presume that the tide of PTI can prove to be a nemesis for the rocks of PML-N. Even though Imran’s surgeons have amputated the arms of the patients of PML-N, but still they are a force to reckon with.

A common refrain among different circles is that Imran Ahmad Khan Niazi will contest the elections against Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif from NA-123. If it so happens then it will, indubitably, be the mother of all election encounters. NA-123 has always been of prime importance in the election history of Pakistan. Many leaders have always had a pronounced inclination towards contesting elections in this constituency.

The results from Lahore will be crucial. If Lahore falls for PML-N then it will be a major setback for them and a huge boon for PTI. A change always brews up in Lahore, shapes up into a whirlpool, and then spreads all over Punjab. So Lahoris, get the front-row tickets, for you are about to experience ‘Political Battle in 3D’!

No love in this affair11

by admin / November 13, 2012

For a man who the medical staff dreams to be a factor in India’s nation-wide state policies, Gujarat Primary Reverend Narendra Modi has again proven us just how low he can stoop to focus on a governmental challenger.

Speaking at an selection move in Shimla the other day, the Bharatiya Janata Celebration innovator, campaigning for his party in the elections to the Himachal Pradesh Set up, selected on The legislature innovator Shashi Tharoor and said his spouse Sunanda Pushkar was once Tharoor’s “50 crore girlfriend”.

Modi, who, as chief minister of Gujarat, did little to avoid the slaughter of thousands of Muslims in 2002, and is a competitor for ongoing in the job in the arriving elections, choices himself as a powerful man and his option of conditions often shows his inner primary.

The continuous initiatives to repackage him as a innovator appropriate to a broader list of Indians (he’s been successful selection after selection after the Gujarat killings) came a cropper in Shimla.

Quite apart from creating an unjust strike on Tharoor’s individual lifestyle, Modi revealed complete disregard for nearly 50 percent the Native indian voters – the nation’s females – when he described Sunanda Pushkar in the conditions he used.

Tharoor, a former U. s. Nations under-secretary common for community matters, chopped no conditions as he provided it returning to Modi on Tweets.

“My spouse is value a lot more than your unreal 50 crores. She is precious. But you need2be able2love some1 2understand that,” Tharoor tweeted.

This was not the end of the return. It led to others getting into the arena, hardly increasing the stage of governmental discussion that is so poorly required in Native indian state policies.

Wading into the debate, BJP spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi described Tharoor as an worldwide really like expert for whom a assistant of state for really like matters should be designed.

Not to be beaten, Tharoor reacted, again on Twitter: “Better to be Reverend of Love than Primary Reverend of Dislike.”

On her aspect, Sunanda Pushkar said in an meeting that if a lady was separate and quite reasonable looking she gets “flagged”.

“I would like to tell him [Modi] that why do not you take on individuals who you should be dealing with to win an selection. I would like to tell him to regard females. I had observed formerly that he prefers to take pot injections at females. Is not the BJP innovator in Lok Sabha a woman? I would entice all the females in BJP to get together and ask Modi why he is fighting women?” she said in the meeting.

But the The legislature innovator Digvijay Singh came down to the individual stage, asking Modi to expose the name of his spouse, “Why is Modi quiet about his wife’s name? If you can check out YouTube and look for Narendra Modi’s spouse, you will discover the name Yashoda Ben as his spouse.”

In state policies, one often gets badly focused. That’s the way the experience is performed.

But, if you want to be taken as a serious governmental innovator then you cannot go around creating content about Sunanda Pushkar that Modi did.

Like in the state policies of other countries, there are many individual pumpkin heads or scarecrows that governmental management in Indian might want to cover up.

If these pumpkin heads or scarecrows impinge on their state policies or probity, then by all indicates let us present them and position them slap in the community eye.

But if a lady or a man wants to get married to again, or take a partner, Modi, or others like him, cannot take a position on ethical verdict on such individual problems.

The strongman of Gujarat was probably trying to entice the baser emotions of the selection audience at his Shimla move. But his feedback seem to have poorly backfired.

Modi’s feedback in Shimla factor to yet another serious lacuna in his CV.

He continues to be unsuitable to take on a bigger aspect in India’s nation-wide state policies.

Tsunami?12

by admin / August 2, 2012

Let me start by saying that I am a fan of Imran Khan.  I loved him as a cricketer, and I admire him as a defiant politician. Despite years of turpitude, he did not sell his soul to the devil in exchange for political success, has remained financially honest, and finally seems to have developed a public-following, large enough to bring about meaningful change in this land.

And because I like Imran Khan – I want to believe in his promise and support his cause – I would hate to see his fail.  Which, sadly, is what I fear is about to happen.

Let me explain.

The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaaf (PTI) and Imran Khan, have already passed the legitimacy test (which is frequently the biggest hurdle in politics). They have established themselves as a potent political force to reckon with. And they did so, last October, without borrowing any wisdom or support from Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Javed Hashmi, Khurshid Kasuri, Shahfqat Mehmood, Afzal Sindhu or their likes.

However, sadly, despite having been catapulted from the minor leagues into a party with national appeal, the PTI’s focus has not shifted from ‘building a party’ (through induction of alleged big-wigs from other parties) to ‘building the country’.  And this is symptomatic of political immaturity.

Let’s pause and try to understand what might be the wisdom behind Imran Khan’s opening the party doors to a genre of individuals that the old-guard of PTI has spent its entire political life opposing. Why reach out to individuals with questionable loyalties and tainted political allegiances? Why do press-conference after press-conference to ‘launch’ people who will not stand with PTI for a moment longer than it is convenient or expedient for them? Has the mighty Khan misjudged this game? Does he actually believe that these individuals, who up until yesterday were exactly the junta that PTI struggled against, have now truly and earnestly ‘changed’?

Or instead, is this simply a politically dexterous exercise of gathering enough ‘winning candidates’, regardless of their political histories, before the election … sort of getting your ducks in line?

If a blind man on the street can see that (some of) these new PTI champions are only loyal to their personal ambition, and will consider jumping ship the moment it serves their political interest, we’d have to assume that Khan sahab is cognizant of this fact too.

What then, might be the reason to include them in PTI today, jeopardising the party’s integrity in the process? The answer is less than complicated, and can be summed up in one word:  Electibility! These individuals are more ‘electible’ in their constituencies than some of their (less tainted) counterparts.

This brings us to the next question. Why do PTI and Imran Khan want ‘electibility’ over integrity in their new members? Does this mean that Imran Khan believes that individual personalities, and not party appeal or the overall message of PTI, will win the elections?  And if so, then how is the PTI politics, built around individuals and not some overarching message of hope and progress, any different from that of the other parties that the nation has tried, tested and been disappointed by countless times?

This, in many ways, is a crisis of confidence. Khan Sahab seems to be unsure that his message of hope is resonating with the downtrodden masses. As though the message itself is not ‘electible’ and therefore the party needs electible personalities. Khan Sahab must be reminded that we believe in his ability to bring about progressive change through a mobilisation of the faceless people of this country… and not through the changing of guard from among the symbols of status quo. People came to the Lahore jalsa of Imran Khan not because of the ‘electibility’ of the man addressing them, but despite it. The target audience of Khan Sahab’s message is not the PPP or PLM-N jiyalas, who support their candidates because of how many favors that candidate (once elected) can lend them.  PTI’s appeal is to that silent majority that wants to see the collective destiny of our nation improve, and therefore would vote for the message being delivered more so than the men and women delivering it.

The generation who grew up following Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s message of ‘roti, kapra aur makaan’, across the dusty fields of this nation often narrates the stories of how, in the 1971 elections (not the 1977 elections), virtually unknown individuals got elected on the People’s Party ticket! Because Bhutto’s message had seeped into the national conscience.  Imran Khan and PTI have the opportunity of doing something equally fantastic. If only Khan Sahab would believe that people have heard what he has had to say. And that, if anything, the presence of tainted personalities of the past weakens his message, not strengthen it.

Politics is about perception. I once heard Imran Khan make a speech in which he described that during his five years in the Parliament (between 2002 and 2008), he observed a very weird phenomenon in our legislative assembly: members from one side of the isle stand up and hurl accusation of past corruption and misconduct on members from the other side. The other side, then, does not get up to say ‘we have not been corrupt’… but instead reply with similar allegations about the accuser. As a result, after a while, everyone just shuts-up because none of the parties (and their members) can claim to have a spotless record.  And so the business of the state continues in the status quo manner because each side has skeletons in the closet.

I think about that speech.  And I wonder: if the PTI comes to power (with the current roster of big-wigs) would things be any different?

چنائے کون ہیں؟13

by admin / July 12, 2012

کراچی سے تعلق رکھنے والی شرمین چنائے ایک صحافی اور دستاویزی فلموں کی ہدایت کارہ ہیں جنہوں نے عام لوگوں کے مسائل اجاگر کرنے کیلئے کیمرے کا سہارا لیا۔

شرمین 1978 میں کراچی میں پیدا ہوئیں ،وہ اپنے خاندان کی پہلی خاتون تھیں جنہوں نے بیرون ملک تعلیم حاصل کی۔انہوں نے اسمتھ کالج سےبیچلر کی ڈگری حاصل کرنے کے بعد اسٹین فورڈ یونیورسٹی سے پولیٹیکل اسٹیڈیز اور کمیونیکیشن میں ماسٹر کیا۔

انھوں نے ایک صحافی کی حیثیت سے اپنے کیریئر کا آغاز 2002 میں نیویارک ٹائمز سے کیا۔۔2005 میں وہ برطانوی ٹیلی ویژن چینل فور کا حصہ بنیں ۔

دستاویزی فلم ساز کی حیثیت سے اپنے سفر کا آغازشرمین  نے اس وقت کیا جب انہوں نے پاکستان میں افغان پناہ گزیروں اور ان کے بچوں کی حالت زار پر ایک تحقیقی مضمون لکھا،اس کے بعد انہوں نے وطن لوٹ کر اس مسئلے پر دستاویزی فلم بنانے کافیصلہ کیا اور 2010 میں چلڈرن آف طالبان کے نام سے ایک شاہکار دستاویزی فلم بنائی۔

ایک صحافی اور فلم ساز کی حیثیت سےشرمین اب تک برطانیہ اور امریکا میں  ایسے ہی مسائل پر مبنی چودہ فلموں پر کام کر چکی ہیں۔

عراقی جلاوطنوں کے بارے میں فلم دا لوسٹ جنریشن اور افغانستان ان وہیلڈ کا شمار ان کی بہترین دستاویزی فلموں میں ہوتا ہے۔

یوٹیوب: فی سیکنڈ بہتر گھنٹے کی اپ لوڈنگ14

by admin / July 12, 2012

سان فرانسسکو: مشہورِ زمانہ ویڈیواپ لوڈنگ ویب سائٹ یوٹیوب نے کامیابی سے سات سال مکمل کرنے کے علاوہ چند اہم سنگِ میل عبور کرنے کا بھی اعلان کیا ہے ۔

یوٹیوب کا کہنا ہے کہ ان کی ویب سائٹ پر ہر ایک منٹ میں بہتر گھنٹے کی ویڈیو اپ لوڈ کی جارہی ہے۔

گوگل نے دوہزار چھ میں یوٹیوب کو ایک ارب پینسٹھ کروڑ ڈالر میں خریدا تھا اور اب ہر مہینے لگ بھگ تین ارب گھنٹے کی ویڈیو دیکھی جارہی ہیں۔

یوٹیوب کی زبردست عالمی مقبولیت کے باوجود گوگل نے اب تک اس سے منافع کا اعلان نہیں کیا تاہم اب یوٹیوب پر طویل فلمیں، اور مکمل ٹی وی پروگرام بھی شامل کئے جارہے ہیں۔

عامر خان سے بہار حکومت کی گزارش15

by admin / July 11, 2012

وزیر صحت اشوئنی کمار چوبائی نے عامر خان سے لوگوں میں عام ادویات سے اگاہی اور ادویات کو مقبول کرنے میں مدد کرنے کے لیئے ان سے درخواست کی ہے۔

یہ خیال وزیر صحت کو عامر خان کے حال ہی میں ہونے والے ادویات کے حوالے سے ہونے والے ایک شو کے بعد آیا۔

عامر خان نے پروگرام میں ادویات کی قیمت پر کنٹرول اور سستی منشیات بات چیت کی تھی۔

دی ٹائمز آف انڈیا کے مطابق وزیر صحت کا کہنا تھا کہ حکومت اس مہم کا سرکاری اعلان عامر خان کی جانب سے توثیق ملنے کے بعد کرے گی۔

ان کا خیال ہے کہ عامر خان لوگوں میں مؤثر سرمایہ کار ادویات کے بارے میں  اگاہی اور ان کی اہمیت کے بارے میں تعلیم دے سکتے ہیں۔

چوبائی کا کہنا تھا کہ ریاستی حکومت نے تمام سرکاری ہسپتالوں اور صحت کے مراکز پر عام ادویات فراہم کرنے کا فیصلہ کرلیا تھا، لیکن اس پالیسی کو عملی جامہ پہنانا ابھی باقی ہے۔

US, Pakistan heading towards collision16

by admin / June 23, 2012

WASHINGTON: The US-Pakistan relationship exposed up to be going towards a head-on effect as an Mixed declares typical attributed Friday’s risky reach on a Kabul hotel on Fata-based militants and the White-colored House guaranteed to take the needed procedure to decrease this danger.

Earlier on Sunday, the US media exposed that Florida had considered launching retaliatory issues at attacker goals within Fata but concerns about destabilising Pakistan prevented it from doing so.

“We’ll take activities necessary to decrease that danger,” said a White-colored House official, while writing feedback on AP evaluation.

Asked if the White-colored House could offer US immunity power across the edge to search down those militants, White-colored House Significant Deputy Press Associate Josh Serious said: “I will not evaluation the kinds of aspects that are being described, and seriously, whether or not they are even being described by the control.”

But, he said, he could talk about with the correspondents that “this danger is something that we have mentioned quite considerably both freely and individually.”

The White-colored House official defined that the US had raised this issue with the Pakistanis and remained devoted to finding techniques to execute with them to battle the danger that these groups provided both to US causes and easy Pakistani people.

Earlier, the go of Northern athlantic agreement company causes in Afghanistan said that the risky reach on the Kabul hotel weary the signature of the
Haqqani group which he said continuous to execute from Pakistan.

Commenting on the announcement, Situation Department associate Victoria Nuland recommended correspondents in Florida that the Mixed States had been pushing Pakistan for decades to ‘squeeze’ this attacker outfits.

Also on Sunday, Security Associate Leon Panetta indicated that the US was not going to take Pakistan’s need for an apology over the Salala occurrence, which activated Islamabad to avoid Northern athlantic agreement company offer paths to Afghanistan.

Pakistan is cautious to reopen the paths without an apology.

Asked whether he would battle any further apology, Mr Panetta recommended the Reuters details agency: “We’ve described what our position is, and I think it’s a opportunity to switch on.”

He added: “If we keep going coming back to past periods, if we keep beating up each other depending on past versions, we’ll never get anywhere.”

But the most particular analysis of US-Pakistan connections came in a community discussion between Associate of Situation Hillary Clinton and one of her forerunner, John A. Cocinero.

Secretary Cocinero described that the relationship was in a ‘terrible’ overall look, such as that this was “really sad, because through the Cold War they were our best companion, and Native indian was the best companion of the Communist Country, and now all of that is changed”.

Mr Cocinero did not recognize with those who suggested decreasing relationships to Pakistan.

“I think we need to maintain a relationship with them because they are a nuclear power and because it’s really important that we not see nuclear conflagration in the subcontinent. And we do not want to see any more development than we’ve seen from Pakistan,” he said.

He suggested decreasing off US aid to Pakistan to “get their attention” while maintaining a relationship with them.

Secretary Clinton observed that Our nation’s relationship with Pakistan has been complex for decades.

“Some of it is of our own developing,” she said, such as that she considered the US should have been more concerned about “what was going to happen to the Pakistanis” after the Communist disadvantage from Pakistan.

“First of all, I definitely recognize it is not in our interests to cut off our relationship,” she said while explaining her technique. “It is in our attention to try to better immediate and manage that relationship.”

She said there were several aspects that the US was now asking the Pakistanis to do: “Number one, they have got to do more about the protected havens within their own country” because “the extremists have an ace in the starting. They just mixture the border; they get path and funding and practitioners, and they go coming back across the edge.”

She recommended Pakistan to act against the Haqqani program as well as the LET, monitoring that the militants had already killed more than 30,000 Pakistanis.

“Secondly, they have to be willing to recognize that as we take out from Afghanistan, it is in their attention to have a highly effective, continuous Afghan government” and they should stop “doing everything possible to try to task it.”

“And at the very least, they ought to stop double-dealing us,” said Associate Cocinero. “Yeah, at the very least,” Associate Clinton made the decision.

“And they should release Dr Afridi,” she involved.

Timeline: Judiciary vs executive17

by admin / June 21, 2012

The conflict between Pakistan’s executive orders and judicial authorities dates back to the era of Liaquat Ali Khan when the country was in its teething years. Throughout the course of Pakistan’s history the judiciary has played an integral role in the development of country, however, the public opinion remains that the judiciary of Pakistan is more inclined towards the military command and has favoured it often.

The time line provides a perspective of the political events that shaped the history of Pakistan and gave rise to various conflicting moments.

October 1954: 
The constituent assembly made some amendments in the constitution which resulted in revocation of Malik Ghulam Muhammad’s power as a governor general – rights which had previously empowered him to dismiss Khawaja Nazimuddin’s government.

1955: 
Following the decision made by the constituent assembly Ghulam Muhammad dissolved it, a move which was contested by Maulvi Tamiz-ud-din, the president of constituent assembly, in Sindh High Court.

Sindh Court’s verdict was in Maulvi Tamiz-ud-din’s favour however Supreme Court of Pakistan reversed the decision. This verdict was announced by Justice Munir.

August 1955: 
Iskander Mirza took charge as the fourth governor general of Pakistan and dismissed Muhammad Ali Bogra.
October 1958: 

Iskander Mirza, with the assistance of his commander-in-chief Muhammad Ayub Khan, suspended 1956’s constitution and declared the fist martial law in Pakistan – which lasted till 1962. This step involved dissolution of provincial and national assemblies and termination of various ministers.

The coup and martial law were unconstitutional moves, however were permitted by Justice Munir. His actions played an active role in establishing the famous ‘doctrine of necessity’ – a term which signifies extra-legal actions undertaken by the significant state actors in order to restore law and order in the country.

April 1973: 
Bhutto formulated 1973’s constitution which was drafted unanimously by the ruling and opposing parties of the country.
 August 1973: 

According to the constitution of 1973, the power of decision making was at prime minister’s discretion and president only served as the figure head. Following this article, Bhutto was sworn in as the prime minister of Pakistan, on August 14, 1973.

September 1976: 
Various amendments were introduced to the original constitution of 1973 by Bhutto, however the one which instigated uproar from the judicial command of the country entailed the curtailing of authority and jurisdiction of the judiciary. 

January 1977: 

A strong formation of all the opposing political parties, under the umbrella of Pakistan National Alliance (PNA), led Bhutto to call for early elections. March 1977: 

Elections were held in March and PPP won by a heavy majority, however PNA refused to accept the results and accused PPP of rigging the elections.

The political situation resulted in a strong movement against Bhutto where masses poured out onto the streets and many political leaders were arrested for their rebellion.
 

July 1977: 
On July 5, 1977, the chief of army staff general Zia-ul-Haq, declared the third martial law in Pakistan and suspended the constitution.
 November 1977: 

Nusrat Bhutto filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan against the martial law imposed by Zia-ul-Haq, however the court validated the imposition under the ‘Doctrine of necessity’.

April 1979: 
Bhutto was executed following charges of corruption and extrajudicial killings.
 

Bhutto’s case remains one of the most intriguing and controversial political case in the history of Pakistan.

A bench of seven judges was constituted in order to decide the proceeding of ZAB’s case. Three judges acquitted him whereas four judges declared him responsible for ordering extrajudicial murders. However, when Bhutto filed a petition to review his case, all the seven judges rejected it out rightly.

1980: 
Zia issued the infamous provisional constitutional order of 1980 which granted exclusion of all martial law actions from the jurisdiction of courts. However, Quetta High court declared that the issuance of aforementioned stipulation and order go beyond the parameters of martial law regime.

1981: 
After this ruling, General Zia issued PCO of 1981 which required all the judges to take new oaths validating that they will work in concurrence with the order. As a result of this 16 judges were fired and three refused to take oath but the rest succumbed under the pressure.
 February 1985: 

General Zia-ul-Haq became the president and Muhammad Khan Junejo was elected as the prime minister of Pakistan.

November 1985: 
The eighth amendment was introduced to 1973’s constitution, which affected 19 clauses of the entire constitution. The constitution gave sufficient power to the president of Pakistan including the authority to dissolve the national assembly, specified as Article 58(2) b.
 

According to the newly added clause, all the decisions pertaining to the governance and administration of the country were to be made in consensus with the president.

The articles and changes made to the constitution changed the entire system from parliamentary to presidential regime.

May 1988: 
General Zia dismissed Junejo’s government on alleged corruption charges of national wealth, exercising article 58(2) b.  

August 1988: 
General Zia-ul-Haq along with his entourage and American official died in a plane crash.
 

October 1988: 
During the Haji Saifullah Khan vs The Federation of Pakistan’s case, the Supreme court of Pakistan declared that dissolution of assembly by General Zia was an unconstitutional move, however the court did not revoke the orders as the entire nation was already geared up for the elections.

Elections of 1988: 
Soon after the death of Zia-ul-Haq, elections were held in the country, which were won by PPP. Benazir Bhutto, the daughter of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, was elected as the first woman prime minister of Pakistan.

August 1990: 
Following the rising conflicts between Khan and Bhutto, the former dissolved the parliament and sacked Bhutto on corruption charges, appointing Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi as the interim prime minister.
 

November 1990: 
Pakistan Muslim League won the provincial and national elections and Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif was elected as the prime minister.

April 1993: 
Sharif served as the prime minister till April 19, 1993, however Khan then dissolved the parliament again on charges of corruption by Sharif government and announced the date of elections to be held within a course of few months.

The elections were scheduled on July 14 but the Supreme Court declared Khan’s ruling as invalid and reinstated Sharif as the prime minister.
 

July 1993: 
The mounting tensions and conflict between the president and prime minister led to the resignations of both.
 

October 1993: 
After the general elections of 1993, which were boycotted by significant political factions including MQM, PPP won with heavy majority and Bhutto was elected as the prime minister for the second time.

November 1996: 
On the alleged charges of corruption and extrajudicial killings, Laghari dismissed Bhutto’s government and announced the date of next elections.
 

February 1997: 
General elections were held on February 3, 1997 and Sharif was elected as the prime minister of Pakistan for the second time.

April 1997: 
The thirteenth amendment was introduced to the constitution, which empowered prime minister and gave him the right to appoint the chief of army staff and other important civil and military officials.
 

The thirteenth amendment repealed the much controversial 58(2) b thereby divesting president’s power.

November 1997: 
The Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered Nawaz Sharif to appoint five judges which was ignored by him. Following the alleged misconduct chief justice Sajjad Ali Shah issued a contempt of court order against Sharif and summoned him to the court, after which Sharif agreed to carry out the orders.
 

One of the biggest mob attacks was staged on November 28, 1997, when thousands of political workers gate crashed into the Supreme Court of Pakistan to protest against the contempt of court hearing.
 

July 1999: 
Asif Ali Zardari was imprisoned following charges pertaining to corruption and money laundering by Sharif government.
 

October 1999: 
The military command, headed by General Parvez Musharraf, took charge of the state of affairs and staged a coup against Sharif’s regime.

Following the coup, Nawaz Sharif and his collaborators were arrested for various charges pertaining to hijacking and kidnapping, but were later pardoned by the government and sent to Saudi Arabia on exile.
 

February 2002: 
Government decided to repeal the 13th and 14th amendments introduced by Sharif in 1973’s constitution.
 

April 2002: 
Referendum was held in 2002 in which major portion of the Pakistanis voted for General Musharraf, resulting in his appointment as the president for the next five years.
 

2004: 
Asif Ali Zardari is released from the court and goes on an overseas exile.
 

March 2007: 
Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry was suspended by the President Musharraf as he refused to oblige to him by stepping down from his position. Chaudhary was accused of corruption, misdemeanour and stepping out of judicial parameters.

His suspension instigated a political and judicial turmoil over the country – a turmoil which was considered one of the factors in toppling Musharraf’s government.

July 2007: 
Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhary was reinstated in a ruling headed by Justice Khalil-ur-Rehman Ramday.
 

The ruling was given by a 13 member bench which unanimously decided that the petitions file by President Musharraf were unfounded and faulty.

October 2007: 
Musharraf won the presidential election but was challenged by the Supreme Court.

November 2007: 
President Musharraf declared a state of emergency and suspended the constitution and parliament simultaneously.
 

Musharraf also ordered the house arrest of the Chief Justice and the judges responsible for his reinstatement.

December 2007: 
Musharraf revoked his previous orders and lifted the emergency on December 15.

February 2008: 
General elections were held in Pakistan in which Pakistan People’s Party and Pakistan Muslim League-N won a major chunk of the seats. Both the majority parties formed a coalition government in which Yousuf Raza Gilani was elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

June 2008: 
The long march was organised by the lawyers, who sought the restoration of Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry as chief justice. The march concluded in Islamabad on June 14, demanding the ouster of President Musharraf.
 

August 2008: 
Ruling coalition (PPP and PML-N) decided, for the third time, to reinstate Chaudhry.

August 2008: 
President Musharraf resigned after PPP and PML-N launched impeachment proceedings against him.
 

August 2008: 
PML-N left the coalition, as the government failed to reinstate the chief justice.

September 2008: 
Asif Ali Zardari won the presidential election.
 

December 2009: 
The Supreme Court of Pakistan issued a petition to consider NRO 2007 to be null and void which provided immunity to the offenders of law, including money launderers and embezzlers. The ordinance of 2007 was drafted and approved by President Pervez Musharraf.

The court asked the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to reopen the cases against President Zardari entailing the Swiss scam; allegations which the premier out rightly denies to date.

October 2011: 
Mansoor Ijaz wrote an article in Financial Times where he revealed that he delivered a memorandum written by a Pakistani official posted in the US to Admiral Mike Mullen. The revelation created a frenzy of activity in Pakistan bringing the role of then ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani, into question.
 

The memo is speculated to have been written just after Osama bin Laden’s killing in Pakistan and allegedly seeks help from the US to rein in the country’s military and intelligence agencies.
 

November 2011: 
Hussain Haqqani resigns from his position amidst chaos and allegations pertaining to him having drafted the controversial memo.
 

December 2011: 
Nawaz Sharif and his alliances filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan to further investigate the memo scandal
The Supreme Court of Pakistan declares that the petitions filed by Nawaz Sharif and other political leaders to further investigate the memo scandal, are ‘maintainable’.

Prime Minister, Yousuf Raza Gilani publicly announced that he and his party members will not accept ‘a state within a state’; a remark which instigated a sense of disagreement between the civil and military command within the country.
 

However, General Kayani reiterated that the army does not aim to ‘stage a coup’ and this is another tactic deployed by the government to digress from memo scandal.

January 2012: 
The Supreme Court of Pakistan issued a warning against the government to implement and execute the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) issued in the December of 2009, by writing to the Swiss government.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani terminated the secretary defence, Khalid Naeem Lodhi, on alleged misconduct and disciplinary actions.
 

Moreover, Gilani is issued a contempt of court notice in the NRO implementation case, and is directed to appear before the apex court on January 19. He appoints Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan to represent him in the Supreme Court.
 

On the other hand, the apex court suspended Babar Awan’s licence to practice in the court and asked for a replacement of Awan with another lawyer to represent President Zardari in the Bhutto reference.
 

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani appeared in front of the Supreme Court to defend the contempt of court charges filed against him.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan adjourned the session by postponing the hearing until February 1, 2012. However, the court exempted Gilani from appearing in the next scheduled hearing.
 

The memogate case took an interesting turn when Ijaz refused to come to Pakistan over security concerns, which instigated Haqqani to file an application to disqualify Ijaz from the proceedings of the case.
 

February 2012:
Supreme Court of Pakistan announced its verdict on February 2, 2012 signifying that Gilani will be indicted of the charges pertaining to contempt of court. Gilani has been summoned to appear before the court on February 13, 2012, however, he has decided to file an appeal before the appointed date.
 

Moreover, during the same month, the ruling party and the opposition failed to reach an agreement on the 20th amendment’s bill. The bill aims to validate more than two dozen post-eighteenth amendment by-elections.
 

Simultaneously, Aitzaz Ahsan filed an intra-court appeal requesting Supreme Court of Pakistan to suspend the decision of framing charges against Prime Minister Gilani.

On February 9, Supreme Court of Pakistan adjourned the contempt of court hearing against Prime Minister Gilani and instructed Ahsan to complete his arguments by February 10. Chief Justice of Pakistan showed displeasure over certain points of the 200-page appeal and claimed that the language used in the document gave a negative impression of influencing the court of law.
 

On February 10, an eight-member bench dismissed Gilani’s appeal to review the previously announced verdict on contempt of court charges. Gilani has decided to appear before the court on the designated date.
 

Moreover, the Supreme Court ordered ISI to present 11 missing persons, who have been in the agency’s illegal detention, before the court on the same day or face action.
 

Furthermore, memo case witnessed a few developments in which Islamabad high court allowed the commission to record Ijaz’s statements via video link from London on February 22, 2012 at 2 pm local time.
 

The supreme Court of Pakistan indicted Prime Minister Gilani for charges pertaining to contempt of court on February 13, 2012.

The Supreme court ordered the prosecutor, attorney general, to submit sufficient documents by February 16.

PM’s counsel has been ordered to compile and submit evidence by February22 whereas Gilani’s evidence will be recorded on February 27 and 28.
 

After a fortnight of dispute and push backs, the government and opposition unanimously push through the National assembly a revised constitution amendment on February 14. The amendment provides for a strong Election Commission, a pre-election interim set-up and restoration of 28 suspended federal and provincial lawmakers.However the bill was deferred by the senate on February 17 because of various discrepancies between the opposition and the government.
 

The 20th amendment bill was finally adopted by the senate on Monday, February 20, 2012 but not unanimously as the National Assembly had done last week.

The adoption of the amendment by the upper house of parliament has cleared the way for the president to sign the bill which envisages an independent and powerful election commission, setting up of a neutral caretaker regime to hold general elections and restoration of 28 suspended lawmakers.
 

Moreover, the hearing on contempt of court was further adjourned till February 28. The Supreme Court ordered Ahsan to submit complete evidence by the designated date.
 

Furthermore on February 27, a day before the formal contempt of court hearing, Gilani’s counsel submitted a miscellaneous application requesting two top government officers and a former law minister to be summoned as court witnesses.

Ahsan requested the court to summon Cabinet and Defence Secretary Nargis Sethi, Law Secretary Masood Chishti and former law minister Babar Awan to record their statements as court witnesses.
 

Subsequently, on February 28, Ahsan, referring to the various arguments on appeal, said that he wanted to present evidences and witnesses and that a chance should be granted to him to examine them.

Supreme Court adjourned the contempt of court hearing against Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani till March 7.
 

March 2012:
The contempt of court hearing continued on March 7, 2012, in which Defence and Cabinet Secretary, Nargis Sethi testified as a witness before the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Sethi acknowledged that two summaries were sent to Prime Minister by the Ministry of Law.

Supreme Court adjourned the contempt of court hearing till March 8, 2012.
 

On March 8, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered Gilani to submit the written reply by March 19 and adjourned the contempt of court hearing till March 21. Simultaneously, on the same day, Supreme Court in a hearing pertaining to National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) case, ordered Prime Minister Gilani to correspond with the Swiss authorities again.
 

On March 14, Ahsan, whilst addressing the media, said that the Attorney General Maulvi Anwarul Haq, being the prosecutor of the case, was ordered by the court to write a letter to the Swiss authorities. He said that the orders were given to the prosecutor in his absence on March 8.

Ahsan further commented that he will present his arguments on not corresponding with the Swiss authorities in the court on March 19 and 21 respectively.
 

Prime Minister Gilani, on March 15, publicly announced his refusal to correspond with the Swiss authorities.

He further commented that writing a letter would be a violation to the constitution which carries death sentence whereas the refusal to correspond might result in six months’ imprisonment which is better than the former penalty.
 

Gilani, whilst addressing the journalists at his residence on March 18, said that he is ready to resign from the premiership if that will resolve the issue of writing a letter to Swiss authorities.
 

Moreover, Ahsan on March 19 stated that Gilani’s conviction will not necessarily result in disqualification as a sentence of less than two years cannot affect anyone’s eligibility. On the same day, Gilani submitted his written reply in the Supreme Court of Pakistan stating his official refusal to correspond with the Swiss authorities.
 

The hearing on contempt of court against PM Gilani continued on March 21 in which Ahsan said that they never refused to correspond with the Swiss officials neither did they disagree with the court’s orders. Ahsan also said that he still believes that corresponding with the Swiss authorities will not serve the purpose as President Zardari enjoys immunity.

Furthermore, Justice Asif Khoja said that if the accused pleads guilty, then we can think about leaving the matter up to the people.

Ahsan was of the opinion that expecting a fair judgment from the seven-member bench after six-option verdict was difficult.

The hearing was then adjourned till March 22.
 

Contempt of court hearing continued, on March 22, for the second consecutive day in which Ahsan said that according to article 10 (a), fair trial remains a constitutional right of every Pakistani citizen. Ahsan also claimed that the current trial contradicts the aforementioned article.

Moreover, Ahsan challenged the eligibility of judges who issued a show cause notice to Gilani, however the court replied to his argument by stating that if Ahsan’s stance on this issue is considered valid then every defendant will feel free to challenge the court.

The hearing was adjourned till March 26, 2012 however on the designated date, the contempt of court hearing was adjourned without being heard as Ahsan was unable to appear before the court.
 

On March 27, the Supreme Court adjourned the contempt of court hearing against PM Gilani till April 12.

The decision was taken after Ahsan said that he would not be able to provide evidence in the court due to his ill health.
 

On March 29, the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing for National Reconciliation Order (NRO) implementation case till April 16.

According to the court, the final verdict for the case is expected to be announced on the same date.

Moreover, PM Gilani may face another contempt case as the court decided to issue an appropriate order on April 16 after expressing displeasure over the response the prime minister had submitted on March 21 in which he threw the ball back to the judiciary’s court by requesting it to first settle the contempt matter and then raise the issue of implementation of the NRO verdict.
 

April 2012:

On April 12, the Supreme Court resumed hearing of the contempt of court hearing against Prime Minister Gilani.

Ahsan argued that under Article 10 (a) of the constitution of Pakistan, the sitting bench remains ineligible to hear the case.

He further stated that the clause on transparent proceedings emphasises on the fact that no person can be a judge in his own case. However, Justice Khosa said that all proceedings regarding contempt of court cases are only completed by the court.

The court has adjourned the hearing till April 13.
 

On March 13, The Supreme Court resumed the hearing of the contempt of court case against Prime Minister Gilani.

The newly appointed Attorney General of Pakistan, Irfan Qadir, was also present in the court.

Qadir was permitted by the court to act as a prosecutor in the case and was provided with two days to start his arguments.

Whilst presenting his evidence, PM’s counsel Ahsan, informed the court that he was being harassed by a particular media group and was being accused of lying. Ahsan also asked the court to provide him with security.
 

The hearing against PM’s contempt case continued on April 16 and Ahsan, whilst defending his client, reiterated that under Article 10-(a) of the constitution, the present bench could not try the prime minister for contempt as that would be in conflict with the principles of a fair trial.

Moreover, Justice Khosa commented on Ahsan’s argument by saying that the court was exercising its authority to conduct the trial.

Ahsan also requested the court to delay its decision on the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) implementation case as he is of the view that his arguments would be of no use after a decision on the NRO is announced.

The verdict on NRO was expected today however NRO’s hearing was adjourned till May 3 whilst the court directed authorities to bring former attorney general Malik Abdul Qayyum back to Pakistan.

The hearing pertaining to contempt of court was adjourned till April 17.
 

Prime Minister’s counsel, Ahsan, on April 17, refused to complete his arguments in the contempt of court case against his client by April 19.

During the course of the hearing, Supreme Court directed Ahsan to complete the arguments by the aforementioned date.

Ahsan said he was appearing in court despite ill health and that he could not specify as to when he would complete the arguments.

The hearing was adjourned till April 18.
 

Presenting his arguments regarding presidential immunity before the court, Ahsan reiterated that heads of state enjoyed immunity from prosecution in criminal and civil cases in courts across the globe.

Ahsan concluded his arguments with respect to Article 10 A and also emphasised on the point that parliament remains independent regarding the law and constitution.

The hearing was adjourned till April 19.
 

During the hearing of the contempt of court case against prime minister, on April 19, Ahsan said the United Nations, in one of its reports, had granted immunity to heads of state from prosecution in a foreign country.

Ahsan also produced the report before the Supreme Court’s seven-judge bench, headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk, to support his argument on presidential immunity.

He further said that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) had also stopped courts from trying heads of state in the past.
 

The hearing on contempt of court continued on April 20 during which Ahsan said that the prime minister only followed procedure and implemented the summaries presented to him.

He added that if the summaries did not provide the premier with the ‘right’ input, then he cannot be held responsible for committing contempt of court by not writing to Swiss authorities.

Ahsan moreover said that writing the letter would demean the office of the president.

Justice Gulzar Ahmed remarked that not implementing court’s judgments was akin to committing contempt of court.
 

During the course of the hearing on April 24, newly-appointed Attorney General of Pakistan Irfan Qadir claimed that no law addressing contempt of court existed in Pakistan.

Qadir made the claim while presenting his arguments in the contempt of court case.

He further said that a contempt of court ordinance was promulgated in the country in July 2003 but that it had expired in December 2003.

The Attorney General moreover said that it was the prosecution’s duty to ensure that no innocent was penalised.

The verdict on PM’s contempt of court case will be announced on April 26.
 

Supreme Court of Pakistan, on April 26, found PM Gilani guilty of contempt of court for refusing to reopen corruption cases against the president, but gave him only a symbolic sentence of 30 seconds detention in the court room.
 

Prime Minister Gilani, on April 26, refused to step down after his contempt of court conviction, saying only the country’s parliament could remove him from office.

“There is no law to remove an elected prime minister. Parliament is the supreme authority and only this parliament has the authority to remove me,” he said in a defiant appearance in the National Assembly a day after the Supreme Court verdict.
 

Prime Minister Gilani, on April 30, said he would not resign from his position, adding that the Supreme Court’s conviction had no relation with the process of disqualification.

Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, he said there was no law under which the court could disqualify an elected representative of the people.

He further said that he had the right of appeal against the apex court’s ruling.
 

May 2012:

Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry said, on May 1, 2012, that three judges who were part of the bench that heard the contempt case against the prime minister would not be available if a review petition came up.

Chaudhry did not identify the three judges who would not be “available” nor did he specify the reason.
 

Speaker National Assembly Dr Fehmida Mirza, on May 3, said that she had not made up her mind regarding the Supreme Court’s conviction of Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani.

She said she would consider the subject once the detailed verdict on the contempt of court case comes out.
 

The Supreme Court issued the detailed verdict in the contempt of court case against Prime Minister Gilani on May 8.

The verdict, comprising 77 pages, was authored by Justice Nasirul Mulk.

The verdict stated that the PM did not comply with court’s orders and deliberately disregarded the court. It also said that it is clear that the judiciary was ridiculed at the highest levels of the government.
 

Advocate Muhammad  Azhar Siddique, on May 11, submitted a petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan seeking the disqualification of Prime Minister Gilani.

The petitioner contended that a convicted person cannot hold the prime minister’s office.

He further added that neither Speaker National Assembly Fehmida Mirza nor the Election Commission of Pakistan has any role in this regard.
 

National Assembly Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza, on May 24, decided not to forward the disqualification reference against Prime Minsiter Gilani to the Election Commission of Pakistan after his conviction by the Supreme Court in the contempt of court case.
 

Prime Minister Gilani and his close legal and political advisers, on May 25, discussed the pros and cons of challenging the Supreme Court’s decision convicting the prime minister in the contempt case, decided late in the night not to file the appeal.

According to reliable sources, the advisers were of the opinion that the advantage gained from the favourable ruling of the National Assembly Speaker should not be put to risk by going to the Supreme Court with the appeal because the court may decide to remove what has been described as ‘lacunas and ambiguity’ in the shorter order and detailed judgment in the contempt case.
 

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), on May 28, filed a petition in the Supreme Court against a ruling by the NA Speaker refusing to disqualify the prime minister.

The petition challenged NA Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza’s decision not to disqualify PM Gilani as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, a month after the Supreme Court convicted Gilani of contempt.
 

Prime Minister Gilani, on May 29, said that both Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Chief Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan were not members of parliament which was why they could not understand the significance of speaker’s ruling.

Speaking to media representatives in Islamabad, the premier categorically stated that National Assembly Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza’s ruling pertaining to the disqualification reference was final and could not be challenged.
 

June 2012:

The Supreme Court, on June 6, admitted the petitions filed against Speaker Fehmida Mirza’s ruling on the disqualification reference against Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani for hearing, DawnNews reported.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry heard the petitions.

The petitions were filed by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khwaja Asif and Senator Zafar Ali Khan.
 

The hearing against National Assembly’s Speaker, Fehmida Mirza, ruling case continued in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, on June 14.

Advocate, A K Dogar, whilst presenting his arguments, said that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, was disqualified by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, however he is still running a public office.

Dogar further said that PM Gilani deliberately insulted the court and the speaker’s ruling was against the seven-member bench’s verdict.
 

The Supreme Court, on June 15, resumed the hearing on petitions challenging the ruling of the National Assembly’s Speaker on the issue of disqualification of the Prime Minister.

During the hearing, the prime minister’s counsel Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan requested the court to constitute a larger bench to hear the petitions.

The bench said that by not appealing against the conviction, the prime minister had accepted it.

Responding to which, Ahsan said that the prime minister had accepted the conviction but not disqualification.
 

The Supreme Court resumed the hearing into the Speaker ruling case on June 18.

During the hearing, a written reply from Speaker National Assembly Fehmida Mirza was submitted in the apex court by Attorney General Irfan Qadir.

Ahsan said that under Article 184 (3) of the Constitution, the Supreme Court did not have the authority to hear the petitions.

2013 election in Pakistan18

by admin / June 15, 2012

The 2013 elections are around the area, and this is time when all the governmental events start their battles to obtain well-known assistance. However, the voting actions of the individuals is determined by various aspects.

Firstly, celebration organization maintains a significant variety of individuals to selection for the celebration they had been associated with, no matter what the conditions are and how effective was the celebration in government or resistance. Secondly, the authority of a celebration also performs an important part in forming voting actions. The charm of the head is a highly effective aspect that brings the team to selection for his celebration and bring him in energy. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto obtained well-known assistance not because of the manifesto of his celebration, but it was his charming character and highly effective interaction and oratory skills that introduced Individuals’ Party in energy in the 1970 common elections.

Thirdly, the applicants selected in different electorates and their times to get over the concerns of their particular team are also responsible to shape the voting actions. Most of time individuals don’t consider the mission of the governmental celebration important, because for them their excellent concerns hold greater significance. During the selection presentations and team rallies, the significant part of a applicant’s conversation is targeted on what is his plan for his team, and that is why guarantees for the growth of the voters are made.
Finally, individuals have highly effective connection with their countries, and they usually selection for the applicants owed to their cultural team in their electorates. ANP has always experienced successful a few carseats from Karachi because of the Pathan community living in Karachi who usually affiliate themselves with the Pathan nationalism.

Given these three version aspects of voting actions, forecasting outcomes of the 2013 elections is not simple. Chairman Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf Mr Imran Khan is very optimistic that his celebration will fresh brush the future elections. No question he has a charming character and the way he has led the governmental strategy across the nation to obtain team assistance is extensive. But that alone is not the determining aspect. Despite the fact that seeing his effective governmental events, many well known political figures have registered his celebration which has improved PTI’s position, a lot needs to be done. There is no specific voting bank of PTI. Throughout the electoral record, the
two significant judgment events PPP and PML-N have experienced well-known assistance in their electorates. Punjab has always stayed a voting hub for PML-N and Sindh for PPP.

Similarly MQM has always experienced energy monopoly over Karachi and Hyderabad, the Muhajir greater part areas. The electoral record clearly indicates that internal Sindh and non-urban Punjab has always provided as a hub for PPP, City Sindh for MQM and City Punjab for PML-N. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan had proven different assistance. In 2008 elections, MQM won 51 out of 166 carseats in the sindh set up and 25 carseats in the nationwide set up. Out of the 25 carseats, 18 parliamentarians were selected from City Sindh. The research expose no different outcomes in the past elections either. In 2002, MQM won 17 carseats in the parliament, 13 from City Sindh.

Considering these research, forecasting that PTI will fresh brush the 2013 is a hazy understanding. To win several carseats, Baluchistan and Hazara Department can offer as potential electoral locations, as these areas have always proven different outcomes. Although PTI’s assistance in Punjab has improved greatly over the past few months making the planet aggressive for PML-N, PPP’s monopoly in internal Sindh is yet unchallenged. For PTI to win a clear greater part, first, they need to focus on the impartial electoral areas which have proven different outcomes. Second, they need to come up with some thought revealing guidelines for conquering the frequent concerns, and third, they need to create a highly effective electoral platform.

Sindh Budget19

by admin / June 12, 2012

KARACHI: The Sindh govt revealed on Wednesday its spending provide the next economical season with a complete expenditure of Rs577.98 million against approximated invoices of Rs570.82 million, showing a lack of Rs7.16 million.

Presenting the spending budget in the provincial set up, Financial Reverend Syed Murad Ali Shah declared a growth collection of Rs231 million against last season’s Rs164 million.

The spending budget records indicate that concern will be given to knowledge, wellness, fresh drinking water and growth of substitute types of, particularly Thar fossil fuel energy venture.

Allocation for knowledge has been increased by 50 % to Rs12.39 million.

The wellness industry will get Rs49.52 million and farming Rs13.69 million, such as ADP of Rs10.9 million. Allowance for the drinking water and waterflow and drainage industry has almost been bending to Rs7.5 million.

To get over power deficiency, an quantity of Rs13.58 million has been designated for facilities growth to facilitate performance of Thar fossil fuel venture, moreover to Rs654 million for the suggested Islamkot airstrip and drinking water service provider from Nabisar to Thar coalfield with a investment expenditure of Rs5 billion; Rs1 million has been set aside for joint tasks for generation of energy through substitute resources.

The minister said: “Despite a healthy 18 % approximated improve in earnings, the lack is completely due to the massive jump in growth collection which has been suggested at a ancient Rs231 million, up from Rs164 million in 2011-12 showing PPP-led government’s take care of to focus on hardship comfort and result-oriented growth.”

The overall growth expenditure contains ADP of Rs181 million and Rs14.5 million for government tasks.

Receipts from the government divisible share have been approximated at Rs314.36 million, 24.8 % more than last season.

The invoices under immediately transactions have been approximated at Rs59.25 million against last season’s Rs53.4 million and province’s own invoices, such as sales tax on services, are approximated at Rs96.63 million, 21 % more than last season.

The present income spending has been approximated at Rs315.3 million, which is a little bit higher than the improved reports of Rs309.45 billon of 2011-12. This shows the government’s take care of to deal with expenses through financial self-discipline.

The spending budget has suggested a 20 % improve in basic wage of govt workers and pensioners as an ad hoc relief.

Mr Shah said the improved invoice from the administration for 2011-12 is approximated at Rs323.17 million as against spending budget reports of Rs312.1 million. Modified reports from the divisible share are Rs256.47 million against spending budget reports of Rs251.9 million, whereas immediately transactions are Rs57 million as compared to spending budget reports of Rs53.4 million.

He said the provincial tax and non-tax invoices have been raised to Rs82.5 million as against the spending budget reports of Rs79.9 million. This indicates successful performance of government’s focused approach to improve province’s own resources through changes in tax administration.

The govt has decided against challenging the farming income.

The minister said the present spending for 2011-12 has been improved to Rs309.45 million from Rs283.15 million. The upwards modification in the present income spending is due to the outside spending budget spending on emergency needs such as flood-related expenses, such as the issuance of Pakistan Cards to rainfall affected individuals, purchase of physical resources for Sindh Cops to improve the law and order situation, especially in Karachi, improve in incomes of workers and modification of pay package of police, medical professionals and the judiciary and improve in employees’ retirement benefits. The improved present investment spending is Rs28.83 million against the spending budget calculate of Rs33.309 million.

The complete launched quantity for growth action stand at Rs122 million. This contains Rs92 million for ADP systems, Rs21 million for section collection and Rs9 million outside spending budget growth spending. Rs11 million was launched in government grants and foreign venture assistance was standing at Rs22.84 million. In inclusion, the quantity spent on growth action but reserved as non-development spending was Rs7.3 million. Adding up the above, the release/expenditure on growth action during the present economical season is expected to be a record Rs163 million.

The finance minister outlined that during five years of the PPP-led govt, Rs644 million has been designated for growth, such as Rs231 million suggested for the next economical season while the final growth spending from 1947 to 2007 was only Rs310 million.

Malik Riaz’s statement20

by admin / June 11, 2012

ISLAMABAD, June 11 (INP): Counsel for property tycoon Malik Riaz, Zahid Hussain Bokhari has said that his client would return to Pakistan on the night between Monday-Tuesday, appear before the supreme court and record his explosive statement.

Reacting over the plea submitted to the Supreme Court, by Arsalan Iftikhar Chaudhry, seeking registration of an FIR against Malik Riaz, Zahid Hussain Bokhari dubbed it a tactic to bar his client from coming to Pakistan. Bokhari that his client would come to Pakistan even if 10 such FIR’s were registered against him.

He claimed that Malik Riaz’s statement would prove “explosive”.