New party leaders: Tareen appoints Aleem Khan as IPPâ€™s President

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13 June 2023, Tuesday I Vol 4, No.117

New party leaders: Tareen appoints Aleem Khan as IPPâ€™s President

The First Cargo of discounted Russian crude oil will strengthen the bilateral tie

PR Daily Brief | PR Team

POLITICS
New party leaders: Tareen appoints Aleem Khan as IPP’s President
On 12 June, Jahangir Tareen listed the office bearers of the IPP. Former PTI leader Aleem Khan was appointed as the president of IPP, while Aamir Mehmood Kiyani was Secretary General, and Awn Chaudhry was the Additional Secretary General and spokesperson of the party. The announcements were made in the backdrop of forming IPP the previous week, where the majority were PTI defectors. Additionally, the PML-N sources reported that Tareen visited London to discuss the ‘future strategy’ with Nawaz Sharif. (“Aleem Khan nominated IPP president,” The Express Tribune, 12 June 2023; Zulqernain Tahir, “Jahangir Khan Tareen appoints ex-PTI loyalists as party officials,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

Islamabad police files case on Journalists and YouTubers for instigating 9 May violence
On 12 June, Islamabad police filed a case against several journalists and YouTubers for provoking the violent protest on 9 May. They were registered under sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, and sections of the criminal code about criminal conspiracy, attempting to wage war or waging war against the state, and abetting mutiny or ‘seducing’ a soldier from their duty. Previously, on 9 June, a case was registered against former army major Adil Raja, journalists Shaheen Sehbai, Wajahat Saeed Khan and Youtuber Syed Haider Raza Mehdi for inciting the violence. Further, the complaint stated: “It was confirmed after looking at their social media that all these people were aiding anti-state agencies, defaming the military and attempting to create mutiny in the army under a planned conspiracy during the May 9 unrest.” (“Adil Raja, Wajahat Among Four Booked For ‘Instigating’ May 9 Unrest,” The Friday Times, 12 June 2023)

Fazlur Rehman criticises the government’s silence against Imran Khan
On 12 June, PDM head Maulana Fazlur Rehman denounced the coalition government’s inaction towards PTI chief Imran Khan. He said: “Why there is no action being taken against the PTI chairman and his party regarding mega scandals? We are questioning the government. If action can be taken against a person who had been prime minister of the country three times, then why not against the PTI chairman.” He accused the PTI party and Imran Khan of the ongoing economic crisis and futile investment from China. He added: “Our identity has been compromised, and Pakistan has been introduced as a secular country…. Reviving the national economy is a challenge. Our foreign policy should focus on policies that benefit Pakistan.” However, he welcomed Chinese investment in various sectors. (“Fazl questions govt’s ‘inaction’ against Imran,” The Express Tribune, 13 June 2023)

Imran Khan calls for dialogue with ‘the real decision makers’
On 13 June, Dawn reported that Imran Khan was eager to initiate dialogue with the establishment whom he called ‘the real decision makers.’ He said: “Politicians, including the incumbent rulers, were “powerless and they have no authority to conclude the dialogues”. The establishment is the “real decision maker and power is concentrated” within the military.” Imran Khan iterated that he was more concerned with the economy and accused the ruling coalition of the decline. He cited the incumbent government being quiet about elections and their desire to dissolve the party, and added: “I got rid of the electables and that those who had parted ways with him and formed a new party are the ultimate losers.” Further, he criticised the trial of civilians in the military courts and called as the end of democracy and justice. (Malik Asad, “Imran still chasing talks with military establishment,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

Asif proposes a resolution to take action against perpetrators ‘without any delay’
On 13 June, the federal budget debate commenced with the opposition leader Raja Riaz Ahmed's speech on a resolution passed by the lower house. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif proposed a resolution demanding the government to take action against the perpetrators of the 9 May violence “without a delay of even a single day.” However, there was no mention of PTI or the chairman Imran Khan. Further, the defence minister claimed that courts had become “partisan” and iterated the army to take handle the internal and external threats. PTI leader Hammad Azhar expressed opposition to the resolution, and stated: “PDM resolution in support of military courts would be remembered as a ‘black chapter’ in the history of parliamentary politics.” Meanwhile, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance commenced discussions on the Finance Bill 2023-24 which will be presented to NA during the budget passage. (Amir Wasim, “Ignoring budget, NA seeks army trial of May 9 ‘arsonists’ ,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

Former PTI minister re-arrested
On 12 May, Former provincial minister Shakil Khan was re-arrested in Pakistan after being released from jail in a corruption case registered by the anti-corruption establishment. The former minister was detained on May 13 along with many PTI employees and local authorities for obstructing traffic and endangering public property. Over 130 PTI employees, including Imtiaz Khan, received bail from the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC), and 63 others received bail-before-arrest. Eight PTI members were given temporary pre-arrest bail by the ATC Mardan in a case against them for engaging in violent rallies. Eight activists received bail from the ATC until 15 June. (“Former PTI minister re-arrested on release from Dir jail,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

ECONOMY
MoS proposes reforms in pension bill
On 13 June, Business Recorder reported that the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Aisha Ghaus Pasha, emphasized the need for pension reform due to the increasing liabilities of civil and military pensions. These liabilities make up a significant portion of current expenditures and are unsustainable. Reforms are crucial to address this issue, as the pension bill is unsustainable. Dr. Aisha Ghaus said: “Pakistan wants the 9th review of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to be completed before 30th June 2023 when the ongoing extended fund facility program would end. We have shared budget numbers with the IMF and are in touch with the fund and they are seeking clarifications as well as discussing data with the FBR and the SBP. “We are insisting on completing the 9th review.” The minister announced an exemption for the agriculture transformation and services sector to boost exports, addressing low growth and poverty. The IMF managing director acknowledged the challenges posed by unemployment, low growth, and recession. The KSA and UAE have pledged commitment to the IMF but may increase electricity and gas tariffs if the agreement isn't reached. (Zaheer Abbasi, “MoS for reforms in pension bill,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

No bilateral debt restructuring is allowed
On 12 June, Following the release of the monetary policy, Governor Jameel Ahmed declared that the State Bank is not contemplating restructuring bilateral obligations. The State Bank is not aware of the government's plan for restructuring external debt, according to the head of research at Arif Habib Limited, Tahir Abbas. Pakistan owes USD 9 billion to China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, which is rolled over annually. An extension in the rollover tenure is likely, as Pakistan has to pay interest on these loans. The country will have to pay USD 25 billion in debt servicing annually, with $9bn being bilateral and USD 5 billion owed to multilateral agencies. This leaves Pakistan with $11bn, a manageable sum given the country's USD 28 billion in remittances. (“‘No restructuring of bilateral debt’,” Business Recorder, 13 June 2023)

EXTERNAL
Pakistan and Iran will explore a framework of cooperation with China
On 13 June, Business Recorder reported that trilateral cooperation between Iran, Pakistan and China is engaged for cooperation in the economy and other sectors, such as the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). To examine potential areas of collaboration and to meet with relevant ministries, an Iranian investment team from OIETAI will travel to Pakistan. A third meeting of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Investment Committee will also be attended by the delegation. Pakistan and Iran have signed a third session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Investment Committee, which will focus on trilateral cooperation, financial and banking interaction, exchanging information and investment opportunities, establishing a joint free zone on the Gabd-Reemdan border, and negotiations on the Pakistan-Iran Bilateral Investment Treaty. The committee has approved bilateral trade with Iran, which includes importable items and exportable items under barter trade mechanisms. (Mushtaq Ghummabn, “Economic, other areas: Pakistan & Iran to discuss the framework of cooperation with China,” Business Recorder, 13 June 2023)

China reassures its support towards Pakistan
On 13 June, Business Recorder reported on the meeting between the Chinese Charge d’affaires, Pang Chunxue and Ishaq Dar at the Finance Division. He insisted on deepening the bond further in trade and economics. He additionally updated the charge d’affaires regarding the status with IMF and the 9th review. Despite its economic difficulties, he declared that the nation had been receiving a positive response on the Budget 2023-24. Further, Pang Chunxue acknowledged and reassured to support Pakistan. (“Chinese official apprised of IMF ambivalence,” Business Recorder, 13 June 2023).

Forty-three entities were added to the US Export Control list
On 12 June, the US added around 43 entities to an export control list for recruiting British ex-military pilots to train Chinese militaries. The Frontier Service Group sites in countries which includes Laos, Kenya, UAE, South Africa, China, the UK and various other TFASA (Test Flying Academy of South Africa) and AVIC (Aviation Industry Corporation of China) units, are restricted from receiving US exports. The Chinese military pilots received Western, NATO and US sources and equipment. Further, US added 31 Chinese entities for acquiring hypersonic weapons of US origin. (“Chinese Pakistani firms added to US export control list,” The Express Tribune, 12 June 2023).

The First Cargo of discounted Russian crude oil will strengthen the bilateral tie
On 11 June, the first cargo of discounted Russian crude oil of 1,00,00 metric tons, reached Pakistan via Oman. The Pakistan Refinery Limited would soon process the oil. PM Sharif expressed his gratitude and twitted Sunday as: “a transformative day”, as it has paved the way for stronger bilateral relations between the nations. Details regarding the long-term commercial oil deals will be discussed shortly. The quality of the Russian and Arabian oil will be processed soon. Due to severe economic downfall, the government is yet to decide on the usage of furnace oil and high freight charges. Pakistan has agreed to make payments in Chinese currency and has opened LCs in the Bank of China due to the shortage of dollars in the country. (Zafar Bhutta, “Discounted Russian oil reaches Karachi,” The Express Tribune, 11 June 2023, “Russian crude shipments paid in Chinese currency: minister,” The Express Tribune, 12 June 2023)

PROVINCES
Sindh: PTI is beginning to fracture over its backing of JI's nominee in the Karachi mayoral race
On 12 May, Jamaat-i-Islami received assurances of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf's backing during the Karachi mayoral elections, and the party's elected officials were warned that disobeying its directive may lead to their removal from the City Council. There are worries about the opposing party's local chapter. To support the JI candidate for mayor and deputy mayor positions, the party's union committee (UC) chairmen, vice chairs, councilors, and elected members have been instructed by Sindh chapter president Haleem Adil Sheikh. The PTI has unanimously resolved to back JI candidates in all elections. Sheikh threatens to remove elected officials from office if they abstain or vote against party policy. A group of elected UC chairmen and vice chairmen have said they would not participate in the voting on June 15. According to Asad Aman, more than 30 PTI UC chairmen and vice chairman would not support Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, the JI candidate for mayor of Karachi, because of differences with the party's local leadership. (Imran Ayub, “Cracks appear in PTI over support for JI candidate in Karachi mayor election,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

SECURITY
An intensive fire exchange in North Waziristan killed a terrorist
On 11 June, the North Waziristan district witnessed an intense fire exchange between the IPR and the terrorists. The force managed to injure two and kill one terrorist. ISPR expressed extensive support to the civilians by dismantling the terrorist infrastructure and eliminating the threat posed. The team has initiated several successful operations across various parts of the country. Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary declared that over eight thousand intelligence-based operations had been held since January in multiple cities, including Balochistan, K-P, Punjab and Sindh. Since January, an average of 70 IBOs were conducted by army, police and LEAs daily. (“Terrorist killed in North Waziristan clash,” The Express Tribune, 12 June 2023).

SOCIETY
Sindh CM reassures public regarding efforts to minimize the impending cyclone damage
On 12 June, Sindh CM Syed Murad Ali Shah raised an alert that residents of Sujawal, Badin, Thatta and Karachi are especially vulnerable to the ‘Very Severe Cyclonic Storm’(VSCS) ‘Biparjoy’ that will hit the coastlines on 15 June. Citing data from the PDMA and Met Office, the CM said that given the current upper-level steering winds, ‘Biparjoy’ is headed northward until 14 June. The CM assured that preventive measures such as evacuation efforts, removal of dangerous infrastructure, installation of dewatering pumps in low-level regions and emergency protocols in all major hospitals are being coordinated and implemented. He further notified that a control room with the number 1229 has been instituted at the Commissioners' office. (“CM Sindh for expediting contingency measures,” Business Recorder, 13 June 2023)

LHC turns the heat on lapses in child marriage prevention
On 12 June, The LHC underscored the rampant increase in child marriages and the lack of implementation of laws. The court made this observation while hearing a petition filed to recover two legally minor girls from an alleged ‘abduction’ and marriage. The judge opined that the nikkah (marriage contracts) was conducted without age verification of the couples. The court directed a law officer to present a detailed report on registered child marriage complaints and corresponding redressal actions taken by the government. According to the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint (Amended) Act 2015, the marriage of an under-18-year-old male and an under-16-year-old female is a cognizable offense amounting to a maximum imprisonment of six years for the perpetrators. (Wajih Ahmad Sheikh, “LHC seeks proof of child marriage law enforcement,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

Joint health program to tackle Hepatitis in Rawalpindi
On 12 June, the Rawalpindi District Health Authority inaugurated the “Local Hepatitis Elimination and Prevention Programme” aided by the US-based Task Force for Global Health. Targeting Hepatitis B and C, the initiative covers four high-risk union councils. Doorstep testing, vaccinations and free treatments are some of the initiatives of the program. Punjab Caretaker Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Dr. Jamal Nasir said that 10 model vaccination centres will be instituted in Rawalpindi with help from the WHO besides praising the efforts of healthcare workers. (“Hepatitis elimination programme launched in four union councils in Pindi,” Dawn, 13 June 2023)

Pakistan on Twitter

“One of the simplest ways to determine those responsible for the May 9 arson attack is to ask a key question: Who benefited the most from these violent events? Certainly not Tehreek-e-Insaf! The second important question (the answer to which will make the scene very clear and transparent) should be asked how in just 48 hours under a very coordinated and amazing plan (by regularly targeting) 10 thousand workers of Tehreek-e-Insaaf, Supporters and journalists who viewed the narrative of Tehreek-e-Insaf with a positive eye were either imprisoned or (by coercion) humbled and neutralized. Undoubtedly, all this was driven by a well-thought-out strategy.”
-Imran Khan

“Shameful for PDM to pass resolution on military courts in parliament. Politicians like these are the reason why democratic institutions & rule of law is undermined in Pak. Good thing this resolution holds no legal value but only exposes pathetic mindset of corrupt dynasties. ”
-Hammad Azhar

“Do we really understand why IMF backed out from present program? Simple.Lack of trust & transparency. They gave a plan in May 2022.Available on website. We were non committal & thought that we are solvent state. We were not. Now in June 2023 we had to admit. Late. Incompetence.”
-Syed Shabbar Zaidi

Also read...

Arifa Noor, Destination unknown,
Dawn, 13 June 2023
“Sounds like a plan. But — and there’s always a ‘but’ — this plan doesn’t really account for what will happen to the economy if there is no election. However, the uncertainty around the political set-up will further delay everything on the economic front; even if people are certain the entire edifice can be held up — without or without a legal cover — there are chances this support will be there for a year or so. Either way, the roller coaster ride of Pakistani politics is set to continue and the only istehkam (stability) to be seen is in the name of the newly launched party.”

Masood Lohar, Missing resilience,
Dawn, 13 June 2023
“Urgent action is needed to develop disaster risk reduction strategies and implement bold measures to enhance the city’s resilience against disasters and climate change. Central to achieving this goal is the restoration of Karachi’s marine ecosystem. Failure to do so not only jeopardises Pakistan’s commercial capital but also endangers the lives of over 10pc of the country’s population.”

Editorial, Looking east,
Dawn, 13 June 2023
“From food to pharmaceuticals, Pakistan can import much from India and at far cheaper rates than from anywhere else in the world. Yet, we refuse to do so. With inflation crushing our citizens, the question ‘why’ must be revisited. The state can keep pursuing its principled differences with New Delhi even while the two countries trade. It did so, for most of the two countries’ history.”

Dr Niaz Murtaza, Aborting democracy,
Dawn, 13 June 2023
“The PTI emerged from the vacuous rage of the upper middle class for whom politics is a social media pastime. Their elite lives are less affected by misrule as they use private fixes for public problems like crime and power cuts, instead of joining political struggles to fix them. Their ire thus sapped, neither class joins political struggles. We must go beyond such patronage and social media political fixes. The way forward is a progressive leftist political struggle to birth a better democracy.”

Dr Moonis Ahmar, Who will be the mayor of Karachi?
The Express Tribune, 13 June 2023
“I The image and credibility of a JI/PTI mayor for Karachi will certainly be better than that of PPP because of its questionable performance at the helms in Sindh over the last 15 years. It is also argued that Sindhi nationalists who have a pivotal role in PPP will get an impetus if Karachi’s mayor is also elected from their fold. Hyderabad, which used to have a non-PPP mayor now, will have a mayor representing PPP.”

Sahibzada Riaz Noor, Reductio ad absurdum,
The Express Tribune, 13 June 2023
“What is the role of the state in protecting the innocent, uninitiated from such harmful subversions? What is the role of education in building walls against such manipulations? To what extent can a state regulate this area of activity without impinging upon public and social freedoms and individual rights? These are pertinent issues impinging upon individual rights, freedoms, social emancipation and democracy. No easy, top-down solution exists. The social society must evolve a collective consensus to evolve ground rules to guard and promote the summum bonum.”

“Pakistan’s various power centres must acknowledge that business as usual is simply no longer an option.”
- An opinion on The Express Tribune, Populism: the illusion of change.

Daily Briefs

New party leaders: Tareen appoints Aleem Khan as IPPâ€™s President

The First Cargo of discounted Russian crude oil will strengthen the bilateral tie

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