Bushra Bibi moved to Bani Gala ‘sub-jail’

ISLAMABAD: Bushra Bibi, who received 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana reference, has been moved to Bani Gala, the Islamabad residence of his husband Imran Khan, following its designation as a sub-jail, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

The former first lady voluntarily surrendered before the accountability court in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team, already at the jail, where the hearing was being conducted, took her into custody as soon as she reached.

According to a notification issued by Islamabad Chief Commissioner, Bushra Bibi has been moved to Bani Gala, following its designation as a sub-jail.

“The Chief Commissioner, Islamabad Capital Territory is pleased to declare the residence of convict Bushra Bibi (Residential Compound, Khan House Banigala, Mohra Noor, Islamabad) as Sub-Jail till further orders,” stated the notification.

Sources told ARY News that stringent security protocols are in place, with jail staff to station inside Bani Gala. Meanwhile, Islamabad Police personnel will remain outside Imran Khan’s residence.

Read more: PTI founder, Bushra Bibi awarded 14 years imprisonment in Toshakhana case

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were handed a 14-year jail sentence by an accountability court on Wednesday in Toshakhana case.

The legal troubles for the PTI founder intensify, as the court not only imposed a rigorous imprisonment but also disqualified Khan from holding any public office for the next 10 years. Additionally, the couple was fined Rs1.573 billion as part of the judgment.

The Toshakhana case became a major sticking point in national politics after the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the PTI chief for making “false statements and incorrect declaration” last year.

 

 

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Pakistan’s NADRA to upgrade Nigeria’s national identity card system

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) of Pakistan and Nigeria’s Identity Commission have formalized a historic agreement to upgrade the national identity card system in Nigeria, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

As a result of the collaboration, Nigeria’s national identity card system is set to undergo a substantial upgrade by NADRA.

The bilateral collaboration, spanning over 15 years, has paved the way for Nadra’s advanced technological solutions to be implemented not only in Pakistan but also in Nigeria, Kenya, and Somalia.

During the visit to Abuja, the Nadra delegation engaged in discussions with the Nigerian Identity Commission, emphasizing the importance of technological advancements in identity services.

Nigeria, with a population exceeding 102 million, has successfully issued more than 102 million national identity cards under the efficient management of the Nigerian Identity Commission.

The collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and security of the identity card system, benefiting the third-largest population segment in NADRA’s jurisdiction.

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Gunfire erupts, leaving five injured at PML-N rally in Lahore

LAHORE: Five individuals were injured in a firing incident that reportedly occurred at Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) candidate, Malik Habib Awan’s rally in Lahore, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

As per the details, an unidentified individual opened fire at the PML-N rally in Lahore, leaving five gunmen injured including the brother of the political candidate from constituency PP-154.

Following the firing incident, the unidentified armed individual managed to flee from the scene, meanwhile, the police started an investigation into the case.

Earlier to this, in an armed clash between workers of two political parties in Nazimabad, a man was killed and another injured.

Police said that the deceased has been identified as Faraz 48. A man Rao Talha was injured in the firing incident.

The deceased and injured both have been associated with a political party, according to officials.

Unidentified persons set two vehicles on fire in Nazimabad 2 after the violent incident. A fire tender reached the spot and extinguished the fire, police officials further said.

A large number of police and rangers’ personnel have been deployed in the area, according to officials.

Political temperatures have soared ahead of the general elections, resulting in flare-ups among rival political parties.

It is pertinent to mention here that the general election is scheduled to be held in the country on February 08.

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Pakistan, Saudi Arabia agree to increase bilateral economic, trade ties

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Tuesday agreed to increase bilateral economic and trade relations to enhance the business integration between the two countries.

The agreement was made during a meeting between Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malkii and Caretaker Minister for Interior and Commerce Dr Gohar Ejaz held to negotiate bilateral economic cooperation.

The meeting was also attended by the interior secretary, commerce secretary and other high officials.

During the meeting, it was agreed to develop Pak-KSA business-to-business relations further and start negotiations for searching new business avenues.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Gohar Ejaz said that Saudi industrialists could get benefit from investment opportunities in the steel and petrochemical industry in Pakistan.

He said that the government was taking steps to increase cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in the Information Technology (IT) sector. The minister said the northern regions of Pakistan were rich in natural beauty.

He said that investing in luxury resorts in these areas could be beneficial for both the countries. Dr Gohar Ejaz said “we are working on setting up ‘Brand Pakistan’ stores globally to market Pakistani products.

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PTI candidates declare support to PPP in Rawalpindi, Islamabad

RAWALPINDI: Ghulam Murtaza Satti of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), along with other party candidates announced their support for the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) in Rawalpindi and Islamabad during the general election 2024, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

As per the details, a meeting was held between PTI’s Ghulam Murtaza Satti and PPP’s co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad, after which the PTI candidate along with other general election contestants announced their support for PPP in twin cities.

READ: PPP candidate announces support to JUI-F in Swat’s PK-05

The former president Asif Ali Zardari expressed confidence in the PPP’s potential to bring about a surprise in the upcoming 2024 general elections from Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

He urged the workers in these regions to trust the democratic traditions, stating that the Jiyalas in twin cities have an eternal history.

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KP Food Authority seals 21 mills for producing substandard ghee

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Food Authority on Monday sealed 21 mills for producing substandard ghee, ARY News reported.

The KP Food Authority has initiated strict actions against ghee mills involved in producing substandard ghee.

The food authority inspected a total of 26 ghee mills, and samples from 46 different brands were examined.

READ: Punjab Food Authority seals ‘fake’ juice factory in Lahore

According to the spokesperson, the result of the examination of 46 brands, 32 samples were found to be substandard, while 14 met the required standards.

The officials from the food authority sealed the total of 21 ghee mills producing inferior quality.

Stringent measures were taken in various areas, including Haripur, Malakand, Bannu, and Kohat. The Food Authority conducted operations to ensure the compliance of food manufacturing units with quality standards.

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Maulana Fazl says will not let anyone to seat mandate

GHOTKI: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazalur Rehman said that his party would not let anyone ‘steal’ its mandate as it happened in general elections, 2018.

Addressing a public gathering in connection with the General Elections 2024 in Ghotki, Fazalur Rehman said that if someone still believes in ‘stealing’ the mandate, he should take a lesson from the condition of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder.

The JUI-F chief said that every other party is busy with power politics and nobody cares about the issues being faced by the common men. “No party is coming up for revival of Pakistan’s economy,” he added.

Maulana Fazalur Rehman also came down heavily on the PTI founder and said that he was ‘imposed to spoil the country’s identity and destroy the economy.

He also condemned Israel over its violation of human rights in Palestine. “Israel is a terrorist and the United States stands beside it,” he added.

The JUI-F chief asked the party workers to convey its message to the masses and request for vote for the February 8 elections.

“When the JUI-F contest the polls, some elements criticise and mock us as they think we are fighting for the seat.  You might be fighting for the seat and personal gains not us.  The path we are on is of Quran and Sunnah,” he added.

Read More: Mehmood Khan Achakzai withdraws from NA-265 in favour of Maulana Fazl

Earlier on January 12, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, head of PakhtunKhaw Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) has announced his withdrawal from the NA-265 constituency in favour of JUI-F chief.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman will be contesting the upcoming general elections from NA-265 Pishin.

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JI’s Siraj castigates rivals over ‘persistent bad governance’

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Ameer Sirajul Haq on Sunday lambasted his political rivals, PPP, PML-N and MQM-P, over ‘persistent bad governance’, asserting that Feb 8 was the day to end “corrupt system” from the country, ARY News reported.

Addressing a public gathering at Karachi’s Baghe Jinnah in connection with General Elections 2024, Sirajul Haq said the people of Karachi have given their verdict in favour of his party, adding that gone are the days of PML-N, PPP and MQM-P.

“This is the day to end corrupt system,” he said, vowing that his party will hold mafias accountable, if elected to power. “Corrupts, sugar mafia, drug mafia and land mafia will be held accountable,” he maintained.

Sirajul Huq said that the PPP and the PML-N could not overcome crises in Pakistan Airlines and Pakistan Railways. “How will they (PPP and PML-N) put Pakistan back on track,” he asked.

The JI Ameer said that after ‘coming’ into power his party would take effective measures for repatriation of Dr Afia Siddiqui. “We will not sit idle till repatriation of Dr Afia Siddiqui,” he vowed.

Addressing the participants, JI Karachi chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman demanded that the youth of Karachi should be given government jobs on merit. He said that Karachi is the economical hub of Pakistan as the country heavily relies on the city.

“The people of Karachi should be given their due rights,” he added.

Read More: Election 2024: JI unveils candidates from Karachi

Earlier, the JI has unveiled its candidates for national assembly constituencies according to which the party has fielded its Karachi head Hafiz Naeem from two National Assembly seats (NA-246, NA2-50) and one provincial seat (PS 130).

The JI candidates Umar Farooq, Taufeeq Uddin, Jameel Khan, Akhtar Hussain, Mairaj Siddiqui, Dr Usama Razi, Irfan Ikhlas will contest elections for the national assembly seats.

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Three including woman killed in Malakand car accident

As many as three pedestrians were killed, while three others were severely injured after a speeding car ran over them in Malakand district, ARY News reported on Saturday.

The unfortunate incident occurred on the Batkhela bypass Road in which a speeding car collided with a motorcyclist due to excessive speed and ran over some pedestrians.

The rescue officials claimed that the three individuals, including a woman, lost their lives on the spot, while three others sustained serious injuries.

READ: Several passengers hurt in Islamabad green line bus accident

The injured individuals were immediately shifted to DHQ Hospital in Batkhela for urgent medical assistance, where the condition was reported to be critical.

However, the driver of the car abandoned the car and fled from the scene.

Meanwhile, Malakand police have initiated an investigation, and efforts are underway to apprehend the suspect.

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NAB introduces First Phase of internal reforms

ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has decided that its main focus will be on mega corruption and money laundering cases in the future.

The NAB has introduced what it called revolutionary reforms as malafide or frivolous complaints will now be considered as cognizable offence and liable to legal action against such applicants in the Courts of Law, a press statement issued here said.

The initiative is aimed at greater efficiency and transparency in the NAB operations and to dispel its public perception.

Under the new guidelines, parameters have been defined for submission of complaints, providing complete personal details of applicant with affidavit, in which admitting that the information provided in the complaint is correct and without any malafide intentions. Further, the applicant will be liable to legal action under the law, if allegations are not proved.

Considering damage of the self-respect and self-esteem of persons against the moral code of ethics, the persons complained against, shall be addressed as “Defendants” in the new guidelines. The new guidelines have been framed to ensure human rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan. Further, identity of the defendant will be kept confidential until guilt is proven.

Similarly, the priority of complainants has also been outlined in the new guidelines. Incomplete and anonymous complaints will be discarded at the initial level. The new guidelines will be available on NAB website and disseminated through SMS and other modes of communications, for general public awareness and guidance.

Besides, dedicated Complaint Cells (CC) have also been established at NAB (HQ) and Regional Bureaus under the direct supervision of Chairman NAB and Deputy Chairman NAB to initiate investigation into complaints at initial stage.

Initially, the process of complaint verification will be ensured completed within a prescribed period of 7 to 15 days. The defendant will not be called during this period. The specific guidelines have been issued for processing the complaints against elected representatives, bureaucracy and businessmen.

Identity of defendants/Government officials, etc will be kept strictly confidential during complaint verification process. It is mentioned that complaints against officials up to BPS-19 shall be authorized by Regional DGs, whereas approval of process on complaints against BS-20 and above officers will be authorized by Chairman NAB.

The Government officials will not be called in person in NAB premises during verification and inquiry stage. Accountability facilitation cells are being established in respective civil secretariats for verification of requisite information of government officials considering their self-respect and dignity.

Likewise, separate business facilitation cells comprising representation of respective Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Realtors and Business Associations are being established for processing complaints against businessmen keeping dignified code of probe.

A feedback mechanism of the visitors shall be adopted by all regional bureaus, whereas a proforma both in English and Urdu will be issued to all visitors for providing their feedback in writing regarding duration he was burdened to wait.

His feedback will be given due importance and will be presented to the chain of command. Measures have been described in the new guidelines regarding pending complaints, whereas complaints which don’t meet the criteria, shall be disposed-off by respective Regional Bureaus after taking appropriate measures.

No NAB officer has been allowed to contact the defendants during the initial complaint verification process. If a complaint is received against a woman, she will be called for investigation along with her blood relative and in case of relative is not available, a female officer of NAB will conduct the inquiry.

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Railways police return lost bag contains thousands of dollars to its owner

KARACHI: The Karachi Railways Police located and returned the missing bag containing thousands of dollars and other precious valuables to a passenger – who recently returned from the United States (US), ARY News reported on Thursday.  

According to the details, the Pakistani-origin individual – who returned from the United States – while traveling through Pakistan railways lost his bag.

The passenger later filed a bag missing complaint to the railway police, stating that his bag contained thousands of dollars, gold, and local currency including essential items such as a laptop, passport, and other travel documents.

READ: Railway police returns bag carrying cash to its owner

The railway police promptly responded to the complaint, successfully recovering the bag. The bag, along with all its contents, was later returned to its owner.

Despite losing hope of recovering the belongings, the passenger lauded the efforts of the railway police.

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‘SEASPARK-2024’ exercise begins to ‘validate’ Pak Navy’s operational plans

KARACHI: The opening ceremony of ‘SEASPARK-2024’ exercise under the auspices of Pakistan Navy was held at Karachi on Thursday, Inter Services Press Relations (ISPR) said.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf was the chief guest on the occasion. The participants of the opening ceremony were briefed on the aims and objectives of the exercise.

The biennial exercise is steered to assess war preparedness and validate operational plans of Pakistan Navy against envisaged threat spectrum, especially in maritime domain. Along with Pak Navy, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, Special Forces and Pak Marines will also participate in the exercise.

Personnel of Pakistan Army and Pakistan Air Force will also participate in joint operations. The exercise will further strengthen Pakistan’s resolve to maintain peace and security in the region.

A large number of armed forces officers including representatives of federal ministries also participated in the ceremony.

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PTI founder offered me presidency three times: Asad Qaiser

SWABI: Former Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser on Wednesday asserted that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan had offered him the presidency three times, ARY News reported.

Addressing a public gathering in connection with the election 2024, the PTI leader said that deposed premier Imran Khan offered him presidency, but “I refused due to protocol”.

Asad Qaiser further said that he took the position of National Assembly Speaker for the construction and development of his constituency.

Earlier, the PTI leader – in an exclusive interview with ARY News – urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to play a more effective role in ensuring the ‘free and fair’ polls in the country.

He termed the election commission’s role during the upcoming general election 2024 as ‘worst’, stating that the electoral watchdog should play its role as a neutral institution.

“Such elections will not bring stability but things will get worse in Pakistan,” Qaiser asserted, he accused the ECP of “supporting” a political party, and stated that, despite the pre-poll rigging tactics, PTI will win the upcoming elections.”

Asad Qaiser claimed that the PTI is still popular among the people, alleging that the opposition is playing dirty tactics to ‘rule out’ the senior leadership of PTI from the general election contest.

 

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PTI-backed candidates to remain loyal even after elections: Barrister Gohar

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan expressed his confidence in the candidates, who are contesting elections independently after the party’s bat was stripped off, saying that they would remain loyal to PTI even after elections, ARY News reported on Wednesday. 

Speaking at ARY News Programme “Khabar Meher Bokhari Kay Sath”, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said that their candidates cannot contest as the PTI’s aspirants but they could join the party after winning the polls as independents.

He said independents would have three days to join any political party, adding that the PTI also has a “Plan C” that would be disclosed after the polls.

While responding to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto’s claim to form the government with the help of independents, Barrister Gohar said that the former has been taught that governments can also be formed through horse-trading.

He said that the PTI was trying to make the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) realise that candidates contesting elections independently will lead to ‘horse trading’ and corruption.

The PTI chairman said his party was not being allowed to conduct election campaigns across the country, particularly in Punjab. He said that nomination papers of the PTI-backed candidates were rejected, adding that they had also moved to the apex court to get ‘level playing field’.

Read More: PTI’s Barrister Gohar to take action against violators of party discipline

Earlier on January 17, the PTI Chairman said that party founder issued instructions to end internal differences, vowing to take stern action against anyone who violates party discipline.

Speaking to ARY News exclusively, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said the alliance with the PTI-Nazriyati was made after consultation with the founder. “The reports of seeking an explanation by the founder from me after this decision are baseless,” he added.

He said that at the same time the alliance were under consideration with many parties but the final decision was taken in consultation with the founder, Core Committee and Apex Committee of the party.

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Two-day SIFC-Planning Ministry meeting kicks off

ISLAMABAD: The two-day 8th meeting of the Executive Committee of Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) with Federal Minister for Planning and Development Muhammad Sami Saeed kicked off in Islamabad on Wednesday, ARY News reported.

The meeting reviewed progress on various policy level initiatives and projects carried out under Special Investment Facilitation Council.

During the meeting, the concerned ministries presented progress on various projects and recommended to take concrete measures to further improve the environment for investment.

The SIFC Executive Committee appreciated the overall progress in various sectors and engagements with investors at local and international level.

It also reviewed progress in finalizing the viable projects of the bank under the MoUs and Framework Agreements reached with the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

The Committee directed the relevant Ministries to accelerate work to make these agreements profitable.

The SIFC Executive Committee also reviewed progress of the recently initiated initiatives in key sectors and directed the concerned stakeholders to take prompt action to attract investment in these initiatives.

Earlier, it was reported that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) approved the Finance Ministry summary regarding the restructuring of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Sources said that after the restructuring of FBR, the tax policy will be included in the jurisdiction of the finance ministry.

The eight-member board comprising secretaries from the finance ministry, commerce ministry and foreign ministry will overview the affairs of FBR.

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VIDEO: One dead, four injured in Karachi firing incident

KARACHI: A CCTV footage of the firing incident has emerged showing two armed men opening fire leaving one dead, and four injured before fleeing from the scene, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

WATCH THE CCTV VIDEO HERE: 

Yesterday a firing incident at a shop was reported near Karachi’s Abul Hassan Isphani Road, in which an individual was killed while four others sustained injuries.

As per the CCTV footage, the four unidentified armed accused arrived at the scene on two bikes, two suspects – wearing cap and helmet – went towards the shop opened fire.

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Election 2024 Pakistan: List of candidates for NA reserved seats

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday issued the final list of candidates competing for reserved seats in the National Assembly for the forthcoming general election 2024 in Pakistan, ARY News reported.

As per the ECP’s final list of candidates, a total of 31 contestants Including 10 from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), seven from the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP), and five from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F).

Additionally, the list comprises four candidates from Jamaat-e-Islami, three from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P), and two from the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

Notably, no candidate from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has been included in the final list.

Earlier to this, as many as 581 candidates are vying for 22 National Assembly seats in Karachi, according to the final list of candidates issued by ECP.

The final list was issued by the electoral body after passing the last day of withdrawal of nomination papers by the candidates for the general elections, scheduled to take place on February 8.

Leaders and workers of various political and religious parties as well as those willing to contest the Feb 8 elections as independent candidates have already launched their election campaign in the city.

According to the ECP list of candidates, the highest number of aspirants, 120, are contesting the election for the four NA seats in District East, followed by 113 vying for five NA seats in District Central of the port city.

87 candidates are contesting polls on three NA seats in Korangi, 76 on three seats of District South, 72 on three NA seats in District West, 65 are in the run on three NA seats in District Malir and 48 candidates are contesting elections on two NA seats in district Keamari.

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FM Jilani expresses desire to further strengthen Pak-China ties

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen and upgrade the bilateral relationship with China.

He made these remarks during a meeting with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, who called on him in Islamabad today.

The two diplomats engaged in an in-depth discussion covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and bilateral economic and financial cooperation.

Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani expressed appreciation for the contributions of Vice Foreign Minister Sun in enhancing the Pakistan-China Iron Brotherhood, as envisioned by the leaders and peoples of the two countries.

Expressing satisfaction at the steady development of CPEC, Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani emphasized the significance of CPEC for Pakistan.

He said that Pakistan would continue making efforts for realization of CPEC’s full potential for shared benefits.

He appreciated China’s readiness and support for all CPEC projects in Pakistan.

Thanking the Foreign Minister for the generous hospitality, Vice Foreign Minister Sun highlighted that as iron brother and a reliable friend, China accorded immense importance to Pakistan in its foreign policy and looked forward to even deeper cooperation in all fields.

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Hanif Abbasi foresees coalition govt in Sindh

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Hanif Abbasi said that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) would not be able to defend even its stronghold ‘Sindh’ in the General Elections 2024.

Speaking at ARY News Programme “Khabbar Mehar Bukhari Kay Sath”, Hanif Abbasi said that the PPP is ‘dying’ in Sindh too and the PML-N will get good number of seats from the province.

“Even if the PML-N does not win from Sindh, it is certain that the PPP will not emerge victorious from the province,” he added. The PML-N leader said that there will be a coalition government in Sindh.

Hanif Abbasi opinioned that the PPP has no support in Punjab particularly in Lahore, adding that it will be a surprise if the Bilawal-led party wins a seat from the city

Responding to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s recent criticism on the PML-N supermo Nawaz Sharif and President Shehbaz Sharif, Hanif Abbasi said that Bilawal was himself a foreign minister in the coalition government of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).“He (Bilawal) had a ministry and was involved in all the policy making decisions,” the PML-N leader said.

He said that now the PPP chairman is criticising Shehbaz Sharif but few months back, he used to admire the PML-N president on floor of the National Assembly. The PML-N leader said that Nawaz Sharif is going to be the prime minister of Pakistan for the fourth time.

Hanif Abbasi said that he and other colleagues will welcome the party’s decision to make Maryam Nawaz as Chief Minister (CM) Punjab. “The party has not decided the fate of Maryam Nawaz so far but we will surely welcome her as CM Punjab,” the PML-N leader added.

Read More: Rana Sanaullah claims PML-N to win election 2024 with clear majority

Earlier on Sunday, Former Federal Interior Minister and PML-N Punjab President Rana Sanaullah said that the party would win the upcoming general elections with a thumping majority due to its popularity in the masses.

Addressing a worker convention organized under the auspices of Central Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith Pakistan in Faisalabad, Rana Sanaullah said that the country was making tremendous progress under the leadership of Mian Nawaz Sharif before 2018 when an ‘incompetent’ person was imposed on the nation who inflicted the country with economic and moral crises.

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Peshawar man kills son who refused to quit politics

PESHAWAR: In a shocking incident, a man in Peshawar killed his son when he refused to quit politics, ARY News reported.

As per details, the incident occurred in the Badaber area of Peshawar where a man tried to convince his son to distance himself from politics.

The argument turned violent when the son refused to quit politics and the father opened fire, killed his son and fled the spot of incident.

It is pertinent to mention here that the slain youth who worked abroad, returned to Pakistan two months ago.

Last week, a man killed his two brothers-in-law in Hanjarwal locality of Lahore over ‘personal dispute’.

Read more: Lahore man kills two brothers-in-law over ‘personal dispute’

As per reports, a man namely Fahad contracted a free-will marriage with a sister of the deceased brothers but their family brought his wife back to her home.

Disgruntled with the act, Fahad along with his accomplices brutally shot dead his two brothers-in-law Muzammil and Mudassir when they were working at a milk’s shop.

Father of the slain brothers said that he had only two sons and five daughters and his both sons had been killed.

The police collected the evidence from the crime scene and shifted the bodies of the victims to the hospital for post-mortem.

The police said that teams have been formed to arrest the accused after registration of a case.

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Pakistan, China agree to enhance cooperation in diverse fields

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China on Sunday agreed to enhance focus on high-quality advancements in industry, agriculture, information technology, science and technology to ensure tangible socio-economic benefits for the people through the evolution of CPEC.

The agreement was reached during the 4th meeting of CPEC Joint Working Group on International Cooperation and Coordination (JWG-ICC) held here. The meeting, which was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi and Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of China, Sun Weidong, exemplified the commitment of both countries to foster international cooperation and coordination.

The two sides reviewed with satisfaction the progress made since the third meeting of the Joint Working Group held virtually on 21 July 2022. The meeting underscored CPEC’s pioneering role in strengthening international and regional connectivity while appreciating the open and inclusive nature of this flagship project.

Noting that Pakistan and China were All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partners and Iron Brothers, the Foreign Secretary reaffirmed the importance of CPEC in promoting win-win cooperation and sustainable development. He also emphasized on welcoming interested third parties to explore mutually beneficial avenues of cooperation.

The two sides rejected the disinformation campaigns and distorted reporting on CPEC and stressed the need to counter fallacious narratives and misinformation.

Recalling the deliberations of the Second and the Third Pakistan-China Think Tanks Forum in September 2022 and July 2023, the two sides expressed joint support for media and think tanks cooperation. They also agreed on sharing of best practices and generating an intellectual knowledge pool of CPEC and BRI development through enhanced international communication and cooperation.

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PML-N abandoned ‘respect vote’ narrative after PDM govt: Zubair

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz Leader Muhammad Zubair revealed that PML-N have abandoned ‘respect the vote’ (vote ko izzat do) narrative days before the PDM government, ARY News reported.

In an interview with ARY News programme “Sawal yeh hai”, the former minister said that PML-N started with a confrontational narrative, then turned to reconciliation and now they are running the campaign on the economic narrative. However, the 16-month PDM government is hindering their narrative.

He said that the PML-N supremo had suggested going into election right after the no-confidence motion against the former prime minister Imran Khan and the then PM Shehbaz Sharif’s assembly dissolution speech was also ready.

Zubair further revealed that Miftah Ismail brought back International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal which was a challenging task but the authority to decide the Finance Minister rests with the PML-N leader Ishaq Dar.

Earlier today, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) issued the final list of candidates for the National Assembly seats in the upcoming general elections to be held on February 8 2024.

As per the list, PML-N has fielded candidates on 212 seats of the National Assembly. On the other hand, no PML-N candidate is contesting 51 seats in the National Assembly, according to the released list.

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China reaffirms support to Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong on Saturday reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, economic development and progress, ARY News reported.

He was speaking at the inauguration of a photo exhibition and CPEC library at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here.

“China would continue its support to Pakistan against any threat of terrorism,” the vice foreign minister said.

The remarks came after Pakistan struck terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, less than 48 hours after Iran violated its airspace.

According to a statement issued by the military’s media affairs wing, “hideouts used by terrorist organisations namely Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF)” were struck in an intelligence-based operation codenamed ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’.

“The targeted hideouts were being used by notorious terrorists including Dosta alias Chairman, Bajjar alias Soghat, Sahil alias Shafaq, Asghar alias Basham and Wazir alias Wazi, amongst others,” it added.

Read More: Pakistan, Iran FMs make second contact amid standoff

Pakistan Armed Forces remain in a perpetual state of readiness to ensure safety of Pakistan citizens against acts of terrorism, ISPR added.

Meanwhile, Iran’s IRNA news agency reported that nine people were killed in the attack targeting a village in the city of Saravan, with Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi saying all the dead “were foreign nationals”.

Today, the Chinese minister said that as iron brother and trusted friend, China attached special importance to Pakistan in its foreign policy and looked forward to further strengthening strategic ties between the two countries.

Thanking Pakistan’s support to China on its core issues, he reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for its economic development, progress and prosperity.

He appreciated Pakistan for its support for the One China principle, adding friendship of the two countries was time-tested and had across-the-board support among their people.

He said he brought books from China for the CPEC library including books written by President Xi Jinping on governance and the ancient Chinese culture. Sharing memories of his stay in Pakistan as ambassador in the last decade, he said the library was a reminder of the strength of the strategic partnership which was manifested through the CPEC projects.

The Chinese President inaugurated the CPEC project along with the leadership of Pakistan in 2015, he recalled, adding the leadership launched projects across Pakistan by signing more than 50 agreements.

The minister expressed his happiness over the completion of various projects under CPEC including highways, power plants and industrial parks, saying it was all made possible due to the strategic guidance of the leadership.

He said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by China was undertaken to bring shared prosperity to humanity.
“Through BRI, China envisioned to bring the countries together to face the current economic challenges and to turn challenges into opportunities,” he stressed.

The deputy foreign minister had arrived in Islamabad to attend the CPEC Joint Working Group meeting on Sunday.
In his remarks, Foreign Secretary Syrus Sajjad Qazi said CPEC remained foremost in the all-weather strategic cooperative relationship of Pakistan and China.

Welcoming Vice Foreign Minister Sun to Pakistan, the Foreign Secretary said that the Pakistan-China friendship enjoyed complete political, institutional and public support in Pakistan. Underscoring the salience of bilateral friendship for regional peace and stability, he expressed Pakistan’s readiness to further expand and strengthen bilateral ties in all areas of cooperation.

He said the China-Pakistan relationship was exemplified by commonality of interests. He invited other countries to invest in the industry, agriculture, science and technology projects under the CPEC.

The CPEC project was a tribute to the wisdom of leaders of different generations who contributed to strengthening of bilateral ties between Pakistan and China, he remarked.

The Secretary added that the shared vision of CPEC was meant to bring economic prosperity, regional connectivity and industrial growth.

Later, the Chinese Vice Foreign Minister and Foreign Secretary inaugurated the CPEC library and exhibition. Photos of various CPEC projects including Friendship Hospital, Vocational School and International Airport in Gwadar and East Bay expressway were put on display.

The East Bay expressway in the Gwadar region was an important infrastructure project connecting the port and free industrial zone with the national highway network.

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Toshakhana reference: Two witnesses record testimonies

RAWALPINDI: Two witnesses in the Toshakhana reference against the incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan have recorded their testimonies before the Accountability Court, ARY News reported on Saturday.

Accountability court judge Muhammad Bashir conducted the hearing of the Toshakhana reference at the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

At the outset of the hearing, two witnesses recorded their testimonies, whereas, the lawyers cross-examined one of the witnesses who conducted an estimation of the Toshakhana gifts – which included a jewellery set and a bracelet watch – to ascertain its market value.

The witness confirmed that his company had been approached by Pakistan’s Consul General in Dubai to conduct an estimation of jewellery set and the bracelet watch.

He continued he was given the responsibility to search market value of the jewellery articles which he had completed and submitted an estimation report to the consul’s office in Dubai.

The witness claimed Mohsin Habib send pictures of the Graff jewellery set for estimation. According to the witness’ statement, the estimated value of the expensive Graff jewellery set was $19.492 million.

However, he admitted, the specification list of the article was not provided to the investigation officer (IO).

During cross-examination, the defence lawyer raised questions over a flaw in the estimation report as the diamond’s physical weight was mentioned in “gramme(s)” instead of “carat(s)”.

Responding to the question, the witness termed it a “clerical error”.

Meanwhile, the lawyer asked whether the consul general had been handed over a report prepared by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). However, the witness denied.

The lawyer further questioned the reasons for not providing the estimation report to the investigation officer (IO) if the market survey was not conducted in real. To this, the witness also rejected claims against the estimation process.

However, he admitted that the input documents from the diamond expert were also not handed over to the IO.

After the lawyer completed cross-examination, the accountability court adjourned the hearing till January 23.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Rawalpindi accountability court on Jan 9 indicted PTI founder Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana reference.

Toshakhana reference

The reference, which alleges that Imran failed to share details of the gifts he retained from the Toshaskhana (during his time as the prime minister) was filed by lawmakers from the ruling coalition last year.

The Toshakhana issue became a major sticking point in national politics after the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the PTI chief for making “false statements and incorrect declaration” last month.

The judgement added that the former premier was found to be indulged in corrupt practices under sections 167 and 173 of the constitution. “A criminal proceeding will be initiated against him over filing a false statement.”

“His disqualification under Article 63, 1(P) has been for his current parliament membership”, the ECP said in its 36-page detailed judgment of the reference.

“The amount in his bank account was around half of the value of the state gifts. Imran Khan was bound to declare the cash and bank details in his returns but he didn’t declare it,” ECP decision read.

“Imran Khan being declared disqualified and unseated from his National Assembly seat,” the ECP said, adding: “He has been disqualified under Article 63, 1(P), over submitting a false statement and declaration”.

Following this, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had launched probe against former prime minister Imran Khan in Toshakhana case on March 9.

 

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Maulana Fazl calls for ‘positive steps’ to deal with Pak-Iran standoff

DI KHAN: Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday stressed the need for ‘positive steps’ to deal with issues between Pakistan and Iran amid cross-border intrusions and heightened regional tension, ARY News reported.   

Talking to journalists in Dera Ismail (DI) Khan, the JUI-F chief said that Iran should have contacted Pakistan before taking such “drastic action”, expressing concern over the “unprovoked airspace violation”.

“Iran should have sought assistance from Pakistan instead of taking action unilaterally”, Maulana Fazl said, emphasising on ‘positive steps’ to deal with issues.

He termed Pakistan’s retaliatory action ‘reciprocal’, saying that Iran had started the tension and Islamabad had every right to respond.

Pakistan struck terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, less than 48 hours after Iran violated its airspace.

According to a statement issued by the military’s media affairs wing, “hideouts used by terrorist organisations namely Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF)” were struck in an intelligence-based operation codenamed ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’.

“The targeted hideouts were being used by notorious terrorists including Dosta alias Chairman, Bajjar alias Soghat, Sahil alias Shafaq, Asghar alias Basham and Wazir alias Wazi, amongst others,” it added.

Read More: Pakistan, Iran FMs make second contact amid standoff

Pakistan Armed Forces remain in a perpetual state of readiness to ensure safety of Pakistan citizens against acts of terrorism, ISPR added.

Meanwhile, Iran’s IRNA news agency reported that nine people were killed in the attack targeting a village in the city of Saravan, with Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi saying all the dead “were foreign nationals”.

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Cabinet praises armed forces for ‘professional response’ to Iran

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet has lauded the high professionalism with which the Armed Forces responded to breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty by Iran’s “unprovoked airspace violation”, ARY News reported on Friday. 

The Federal Cabinet meeting, held under the chairmanship of Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, was apprised of the details of the attack, as well as Pakistan’s response.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefed the Caretaker Federal Cabinet about the situation arising from the Iranian attack on Pakistan on 16 January, 2024.

Addressing the federal cabinet, the Prime Minister affirmed that Pakistan is a law abiding and peace loving country and it sought friendly and cooperative relations with all countries, particularly its neighbors.

The prime minister said that Pakistan and Iran are two brotherly countries that have historically enjoyed fraternal and cooperative relations marked by respect and affection.

Anwaarul Haq Kakar said that it is in the interest of both countries to take steps to restore the relationship to what it was prior to 16th January, 2024.

The prime minister said that, in this regard, Pakistan would welcome and reciprocate all positive measures from the Iranian side.

Pak-Iran ties

Pakistan struck terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, less than 48 hours after Iran violated its airspace.

According to a statement issued by the military’s media affairs wing, “hideouts used by terrorist organisations namely Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF)” were struck in an intelligence-based operation codenamed ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’.

“The targeted hideouts were being used by notorious terrorists including Dosta alias Chairman, Bajjar alias Soghat, Sahil alias Shafaq, Asghar alias Basham and Wazir alias Wazi, amongst others,” it added.

Read More: Pakistan, Iran FMs make second contact amid standoff

Pakistan Armed Forces remain in a perpetual state of readiness to ensure safety of Pakistan citizens against acts of terrorism, ISPR added.

Meanwhile, Iran’s IRNA news agency reported that nine people were killed in the attack targeting a village in the city of Saravan, with Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi saying all the dead “were foreign nationals”.

On Tuesday, Iran launched attacks in Pakistan targeting – according to Irani regime – bases for the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan, prompting strong condemnation from Islamabad and downgrading of diplomatic ties.

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Pakistan bans supplementary grants on IMF demand

ISLAMABAD: The federal caretaker government has banned the release of supplementary grants on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) demand, ARY News reported on Thursday.

As per details, the report stated that only the next elected government will have the authority to release supplementary grants whereas the federal government will have no such authority.

Furthermore, a certain amount will be issued to government ministries and departments and also directed to not exceed their limits.

Earlier, Pakistan received $700 million loan tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the nine-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA).

Related: Pakistan receives $700mn loan tranche from IMF

The development comes days after the Executive Board of the IMF completed the first review of Pakistan’s economic reform programme supported by the SBA. T

The Board’s decision allowed for an immediate disbursement of around $700 million, bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to about $1.9 billion.

The IMF’s nod follows the staff-level agreement reached between the Fund and Pakistan on November 15, 2023, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to implementing key reforms.

The agreement supports the authorities’ commitment to advance the planned fiscal consolidation, accelerate cost-reducing reforms in the energy sector, complete the return to a market-determined exchange rate, and pursue state-owned enterprise and governance reforms to attract investment and support job creation, while continuing to strengthen social assistance.

The current IMF program of $3 billion is scheduled to end in the second week of April 2024, with around $1.8 billion remaining un-disbursed. The Fund released $1.2 billion first tranche in July.

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Mustafa Kamal says was ready to withdraw against Shehbaz Sharif

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) Senior Deputy Convener Syed Mustafa Kamal said that he and his party were willing to withdraw in favour of Paksitan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif from Karachi’s NA-242 but the latter decided against it, ARY New reported.

Speaking in ARY News Programme ‘Eleventh Hour’, Kamal said that during the seat adjustment talks with the PML-N for the General Elections 2024, the MQM-P was ready to support Shehbaz Sharif from Karachi’s NA-242 (Keamari-II).

“The PML-N changed its decision and decided not to field Shehbaz Sharif from the constituency,” the MQM-P senior deputy convener added.

Kamal also came down heavily on the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) for ‘ignoring’ Karachi during its 15-year tenure in Sindh. He deplored that PPP has not done any development works in Karachi in the past 15 years.

Read More: NA-242: Shehbaz Sharif withdraws from election in Karachi

The MQM-P Senior Deputy Convener said that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto himself admitted to buy water from tankers in Karachi.

Earlier, Shehbaz Sharif withdrew his nomination papers after MQM-P refused to withdraw its candidates Syed Mustafa Kama from NA-242.

PML-N Senator Nehal Hashmi said that Khawaja Shoaib will be PML-N’s candidate from NA-242 in place of Shehbaz Sharif as no consensus reached with MQM-P for seat adjustment.

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CAA directs Pakistani airlines to not use Iranian airspace

KARACHI: The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has directed Pakistani airlines to not use Iranian airspace, ARY News reported citing sources.

According to sources, the Civil Aviation Authority has asked the Pakistan-bound airlines to use the Muscat (Oman) route.

However, the CAA sources said that strict monitoring of the flights from the western direction including Iran has been initiated.

Sources said that the Iranian airspace has not been closed for commercial flights yet and no ban has been imposed on flights coming to Pakistan from any side.

Read more: Operation ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’: Pakistan strikes terrorist hideouts in Iran

Earlier today, the Foreign Office said on Thursday Pakistan struck terrorist hideouts inside the Iranian border a day after Tehran violated the country’s airspace and launched strikes in Balochistan.

“This morning Pakistan undertook a series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts in Siestan-o-Baluchistan province of Iran. A number of terrorists were killed during the Intelligence-based operation – codenamed ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Thursday.

Yesterday, following Iran’s violation of Pakistani airspace, the Foreign Office (FO) said Islamabad has announced to expel Iranian ambassador while recalling its envoy from Tehran.

“Pakistan reserves the right to respond to this illegal act and the responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran,” FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahrah Baloch said in a post.

“Last night’s unprovoked and blatant breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty by Iran is a violation of international law and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

According to a statement released by the Foreign Office (FO) after midnight, strikes in Pakistani territory resulted in “deaths of two innocent children while injuring of three girls”.

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Iran minister telephones Pakistan FM after border attack

ISLAMABAD: Following the attack in Balochistan, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian engaged in a telephone conversation with his Pakistani counterpart Jalil Abbas Jilani, ARY News reported quoting MoFA.

Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani firmly underscored that the attack conducted by Iran inside Pakistani territory, on January 16, was not only a serious breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty but was also an egregious violation of international law and the spirit of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran.

“Expressing Pakistan’s unreserved condemnation of the attack, the Foreign Minister added that the incident has caused serious damage to bilateral ties between Pakistan and Iran. The Foreign Minister added that Pakistan reserved the right to respond to this provocative act,” the Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.

Read more: Pakistan recalls envoy from Iran after airspace violation

The caretaker foreign minister who is currently leading the Pakistan delegation to the Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in Kampala, Uganda, received a telephone call from Foreign Minister of Iran Hossein Amir Abdollahian.

Stressing that terrorism was a common threat to the region and required concerted and coordinated efforts to combat this menace, Foreign Minister Jilani underlined that unilateral actions could seriously undermine regional peace and stability. No country in the region should tread this perilous path, he stressed.

: PR NO. 1⃣6⃣/2⃣0⃣2⃣4⃣

Foreign Minister receives telephone call of the Foreign Minister of Iran

https://t.co/CogsVpEwBp pic.twitter.com/bXZeaUMlj6

— Spokesperson MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) January 17, 2024

Earlier today, the Foreign Office (FO) said Islamabad announced to expel Iranian ambassador while recalling its envoy from Tehran.

“Pakistan reserves the right to respond to this illegal act and the responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran,” FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahrah Baloch said in a post.

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New ECP secretary appointed ahead of election 2024

ISLAMABAD: Following the resignation of Omar Hamid, new Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) secretary has been appointed ahead of general elections 2024, ARY News reported.

According to official notification, Dr Syed Asif Hussain has been appointed as secretary Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja has appointed Asif Hussain, a 22nd-grade officer as the secretary ECP for the duration of one year.

The development came after the commission approved the resignation of Omar Hamid as Election Commission of Pakistan secretary.

The Commission earlier refuted reports regarding the resignation of ECP secretary Omar Hamid.

The events unfolded when the Election Commission completed all preparations to hold polling for the National and Provincial assemblies next month.

Talking to state-run Tv, ECP Spokesperson Syed Nadeem Haider urged the general public to exercise their right to vote on polling day.

Read more: ECP completes all preparations to hold elections on Feb 8

The spokesperson mentioned that election symbols have been allocated to the contesting candidates, and the ECP is set to start the printing of ballot papers.

Syed Nadeem Haider also stated that monitoring cells have been set up at the provincial level as well as at the ECP Secretariat in Islamabad to ensure the implementation of the election Code of Conduct.

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PML-N prioritised state over politics: Shehbaz

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif said that his party is contesting the general elections 2024 with a manifesto to take Pakistan on the path of development and prosperity, ARY News reported.

In an interview with a private news channel, Shehbaz Sharif said that his party had also won elections 2018 with a clear ‘majority’ but mandate of Nawaz Sharif was ‘snatched through rigging’. He said that Nawaz Sharif won the 2018 elections despite being banned.

“The development and prosperity which began in 2013 was halted in 2018.  Economy has been ruined after 2018 and inflation touched the highest and historical level owing to wrong decisions,” he added.

Shehbaz Sharif said that the PML-N prioritised state over politics and they have no regret for doing so.

The PML-N president said that every effort was made by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led federal government to destroy diplomatic relations with other countries. He said that during the tenure of the then government, ties with friendly countries were damaged and the agreements made with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) were flouted. Shehbaz Sharif said that today’s situation however is different to 2018’s elections.

Read More: Maryam Nawaz promises revival of Lahore’s development

Speaking on violent incidents of May 09, Shehbaz Sharif said “I wish the incidents of May 9 had not happened,”.

He said that PTI founder is in the prison and the matter is sub-judice.  He said that PTI founder used to say day and night that they he will send us to jail. “We did not use such words against him,” the PML-N President said.

Earlier on Tuesday, PML-N Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz promised to revive development works in Lahore after coming into power.

Attending a public rally in PP-159 Gajomata, where she is contesting the election from, the PML-N Chief Organiser promised that the process of development projects that was halted after ousting Nawaz Sharif from power would be revived again.

She also asked the masses not to vote for the people who ‘halted’ the development process.

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Pakistan, Lebanon agree to strengthen bilateral ties

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND: Pakistan and Lebanon on Tuesday agreed to strengthen bilateral relations as prime ministers of both the countries met on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati met with Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on the sidelines of the WEF and both the leaders reiterated their resolve to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the overall situation in the region. They also expressed concerns over the atrocities committed by Israel on innocent Palestinians, especially children and women.

The caretaker prime minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar is in Davos, Switzerland on from 15^th to 19^th January to participate in the 54th Annual Meeting of the WEF.

The World Economic Forum is an annual gathering of government and corporate leaders for discussions on contemporary trends and challenges, developments shaping the world, and charting collective policy responses.

The theme of this year’s meeting is “Rebuilding Trust”.

Read More: PM Kakar lands in Switzerland to attend WEF moot

The global event will be attended by over 100 governments from around the world, all major international organisations, the Forum’s 1,000 partner companies, as well as civil society leaders, the foremost experts, today’s youth generation, social entrepreneurs and the media.

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PM Kakar emphasises unleashing full potential of Pakistan’s agri sector

DAVOS: Caretaker Prime Minister (PM) Anwaarul Haq Kakar emphasised the immediate need to realize the true potential of Pakistan’s agricultural sector by scaling up investments in its modernisation and mechanisation for achieving food security.

He was talking to Brian Sikes, Chief Executive Officer of Cargill Inc -the largest private American global food corporation, who called on him here on the sidelines of the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The prime minister appreciated Cargil’s role in strengthening Pakistan-US trade relations and cooperation in the agricultural sector.

PM Kakar also highlighted the government’s initiatives for food security, especially the innovative initiatives in the agricultural sector under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

Highlighting the government’s measures to promote business and investment, the prime minister talked about the establishment of the SIFC, its measures to promote foreign investment in various sectors in a short period of time, and its positive effects.

Brian Sikes lauded the facilities provided by the Government of Pakistan for investment in various sectors, especially agriculture and food security.

The caretaker premier is in Davos to participate in the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum.

The Prime Minister will attend the Informal Gathering of World Economic Leaders, discussing Preventing an Era of Global Conflicts. Leading policymakers, investors, businessmen and experts will also participate in the gathering.

Besides, he will attend signing ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding between DP World and JW International Holdings.

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Elections 2024: JUI-F to support GDA’s Saira Bano on NA-210

SANGHAR: Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazalur Rehman (JUI-F) has announced to support Saira Bano, the candidate of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) from NA-210 (Sanghar-II) for the General Elections 2024, ARY News reported

However, the JUI-F refused to tender its support for the GDA’s candidate for the Sindh Assembly’s PS-44 seat. Saira Bano asked the JUI-F to support the GDA from both national and provincial constituencies.

The GDA candidate also came down heavily on the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) over its ‘corruption’ in Sindh for the past 15 years. “PPP has been looting Sindh for last 15 years. How many more years will it loot the province,” Saira Bano asked.

She said that the PPP cannot win the elections without rigging. She said that the GDA would not be able to able to form the Sindh government alone as it has not fielded enough candidates.

Responding to the Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan’s decision that took “bat” symbol from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Saira Bano opinioned that taking the symbol away from political parties is not a good tradition.

Saira Bano will be contesting the elections 2024 from NA-210 9 (Sanghar-II) where a tough competition is expected with the PPP’s Salahuddin Junejo.

Read More: PML-N, GDA set to ‘strike deal’ on seat adjustment in Sindh

Earlier, The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz PML-N and GDA have ‘almost finalised’ their seat adjustment deal for February 8 elections in Sindh, ARY News reported.

Sources privy to the development told ARY News that GDA is ready to support PML-N candidates on 8 provincial assembly and eight National assembly seats in Sindh.

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