‘PTI founder unaware of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s video posted on X’

ISLAMABAD: PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan on Friday claimed that party founder Imran Khan was unaware of the controversial video regarding Sheikh Mujibur Rahman posted on his official X account, ARY News reported.

Speaking to journalists outside Adiala Jail, the PTI lawmaker clarified that Imran Khan’s point of view should be taken in a political context.

Ali Muhammad further said that his party was neither interested in discussing the 1971 incident or the elements behind it nor it was an appropriate time to recall them.

Furthermore, he said, no posts will be made from the PTI founder’s X account without his explicit approval.

Earlier, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan said that the official X account of party founder Imran Khan was being operated from United States as its social media team was based in US.

Speaking at ARY News programme ‘Off the Record’, Hasan said that PTI founder Imran Khan is in jail and cannot upload videos on X himself. He added that the PTI social media team, which operates from United States (US), handles the party’s accounts.

The PTI spokesperson clarified that Imran Khan was unaware of the video related to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the party’s assembly members may have retweeted the video in their “personal capacity”. He also stated that an inquiry will be conducted within the party regarding the video issue.

Read More: PTI founder ‘refuses’ to join FIA probe in ‘controversial’ social media posts

The statement came after Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Cell wrote a letter to the authorities seeking access to incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan to inquire about a ‘controversial’ post from his X handle.

The text of the letter stated that anti-state propaganda was disseminated through the official social media account of the PTI founder, targeting institutions, particularly the Pakistan Army.

The video posted on May 26 aimed to distort facts, prompt rebellion among officers and soldiers, and create unrest within various state institutions.

The FIA Cybercrime Cell noted that this video is a clear violation of the PICA Act 2016 and seeking access to the PTI founder in jail for further investigation.

 

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PTI bigwigs ‘consider’ handing over party affairs to KP leadership

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder has been advised to give key roles in the party affairs to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership, ARY News reported citing sources.

The sources revealed that party founder Imran Khan is ‘not happy’ with central leadership in the current situation. Imran Khan has started consultation with senior leaders in this regard.

The sources privy to the development said that one of the key roles might be assigned to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur without appointing him to central position in the party.

The sources said that Imran Khan is quite pleased with the performance of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s media team.

Earlier, PTI spokesman Raoof Hassan said that efforts were being made to keep the PTI founder in jail, lamenting the delay in the ruling on iddat case against former premier Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi.

Hasan also claimed that the PTI founder is being targeted through false cases and efforts were being made to keep him behind bars. He expressed concern that fourth case related to Toshakhana may be filed against the PTI founder in the future.

The PTI leader demanded that the constitution and law be upheld in the country and that Imran Khan be released from jail. He claimed that if the PTI founder is released, the “sun of power” of the current rulers will set.

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Good news for power consumers using under 100 units per month

KARACHI: Sindh Energy Minister – Nasir Hussain Shah – has announced good news for power consumers using up to 100 units of electricity in Karachi, ARY News reported on Thursday.

Addressing to media, the Energy Minister, Naisr Hussain Shah revealed that a plan has been devised to provide free electricity to customers using up to 100 units, with solar parks and mini-grid stations facilitating this initiative.

Shah highlighted that the Sindh government has allocated funds for solar energy and mini-grid projects in the budget, with Rs 5 billion dedicated to solar initiatives.

The Energy Minister stated that solar panels will be offered at a significantly reduced price, benefiting the poor and middle-class residents of metropolis.

He mentioned that 200,000 solar panels will be distributed, with the government covering 80 percent of the cost and consumers paying the remaining 20 percent.

Additionally, Shah mentioned that solar parks and mini-grid stations will be established across Sindh, including Karachi.

Last week, K-Electric issued a stern warning to cut off electricity to the departments of the Sindh government over remaining dues amounting to billions of rupees.

Sources close to the development revealed that the Government of Sindh and the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) have not made any payments to K-Electric since January

The non-payment of dues has led to a financial crisis for K-Electric, causing significant difficulties in network maintenance.

In response to these unpaid dues, KE issued letters to key officials, including the Sindh Secretary of Finance and the Mayor of Karachi, urging immediate payment of the outstanding electricity bills.

In May, K-Electric sent five letters to remind immediate payment of the remaining dues.

The Water and Sewerage Board alone owes K-Electric 5 billion rupees.

K-Electric has warned that if payments are not made soon, the network could fail, leading to prolonged power outages in the metropolis.

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K-Electric accused of overbilling govt institutions

KARACHI: Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah said that K-Electric has overbilled the provincial government by billions of rupees over the past 10 years, ARY News reported

In a statement issued here, the energy minister said that K-Electric has charged the Sindh government’s departments an additional Rs 20 billion during the last 10 years.

“An audit conducted revealed an overbilling of over Rs 2 billion during last year alone,” Syed Nasir Hussain Shah added.

The energy minister went on to say that to prevent overbilling, the provincial government had also billions of rupees to the KE for the installation of smart meters but to no avail.

“The KE has yet to install smart meters at Sindh government’s departments despite receiving billions of rupees,” Syed Nasir Hussain Shah said.

The minister said that smart meters would have provided real-time data and prevented overbilling.

“What will be the state of citizens when government institutions are overcharged for billions of rupees?” the minister said.

He also announced that a joint committee will also be formed to protect citizens from KE’s overbilling. Syed Nasir Hussain Shah said that the Sindh government will ensure that the people of Karachi are not affected by the company’s overbilling practices.

Earlier on May 22, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah has said that overbilling and unannounced power loadshedding should come to an end.

Speaking at the floor of the Sindh Assembly, Sindh’s energy minister said that a meeting has also held with the federal government over the power load shedding.

The minister said that a meeting will be held in Karachi on Friday over complaints against the K-electric.

“We are on the side of the people of the province and taking action according to the procedure. We could not take over the K-electric”, he said.

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Pakistan Football League collaborates with Spain’s Atletico de Madrid Club

Representatives of Spanish Club Atletico de Madrid are thrilled to attend launching ceremony of the Pakistan Football League (PFL).

Atlético de Madrid Academy Manager Adolfo Guerrero Gunther in a statement said that they are thrilled to have been invited to the unveiling of PFL and to be back again to Pakistan.

“It (Pakistan) is a huge market full of opportunities, where we wish to explore different possibilities to develop the Academy programs,” he added.

The Pakistan Football League is being unveiled in a ground-breaking ceremony Lahore on 4 June 2024, followed by a series of farewell dinners in each city celebrating its success with VVIPs and celebrities before send off by the British Deputy High Commissioner who will host a farewell sendoff reception in Karachi on June 5.

Spanish Club Atletico de Madrid had also deployed its International Academy Project in Lahore from 2016 to 2020 as part of its strategic international expansion plan.

The Pakistan Football League (PFL) is set to be launched in Lahore on June 4 as English football legend Michael Owen has been appointed as Ambassador of the league.

Michael Owen will be the chief guest at the PFL launching ceremony, accompanied by a delegation of around 25 foreign guests, including Mike Farnan, CEO of Redstrike; SL Benfica’s Davide Gomes and Luis Miguel de Sousa Santos Reis; and renowned football analyst Mike Alison.

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At least 27 killed as Quetta-bound bus plunges into ditch

WASHUK: At least 27 people have been killed after a bus overturned and fell into a ditch in Washuk, Balochistan on Wednesday, ARY News reported on Wednesday quoting police.

The accident occurred due to over speeding, said police adding that women and children were among the deceased. The ill-fated bus was travelling from Turbat to Quetta.

Soon after the incident, the rescue officials reached the site and shifted bodies and the injured to the Basima Civil Hospital.

Rescue sources said the death toll in the Washuk bus accident might rise further as the majority of the injured were in critical condition.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the tragic traffic accident in Washuk district of Balochistan.

“We stand with the bereaved families in this difficult time,” he said in a statement.

The prime minister also directed to provide all possible medical aid to those injured in the accident.

Read more: Five dead as car plunges into gorge in Shikarpur

In a similar incident on May 21, at least 20 persons died and 21 more were wounded when a bus fell into a deep ravine in Diamer, a city in Gilgit-Baltistan province.

The accident occurred on the Karakoram Highway in Yashukhaldas area of Diamer. The bus was travelling to Hunza from Rawalpindi when it fell into a gorge after the driver lost control.

The bus was carrying more than 35 passengers to Hunza.

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PM Shehbaz likely to visit China next month

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif is likely to visit China from June 4 to 7 to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and other high-ranking officials, ARY News reported.

According to sources, the visit is aimed at boosting business and strategic ties between the two friendly countries. The prime minister is expected to discuss issues including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and phase II of the ML-1 project with the Chinese leadership.

The sources said that federal ministers and other high-ranking officials will be accompanied by PM Shehbaz during the tour in which several agreements are expected to be signed.

It is pertinent to mention here that the prime minister had already visited Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Iran after assuming the office for the second time.

Read More: PM Shehbaz terms his Saudi Arabia’s visit ‘historic’

Earlier, PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the bilateral relations as well as the economic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were getting stronger, terming his recent visit to Kingdom as ‘historic’.

The prime minister, in a statement issued following the conclusion of his visit to the Kingdom, mainly to attend the Special Meeting of World Economic Forum, said a delegation of Saudi businessmen was about to visit Pakistan in the coming days.

The visit would help accelerate the pace of economic partnership between the two countries, he added.

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Barrister Gohar reacts to ‘controversial’ post from PTI founder

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reacted to a ‘controversial’ tweet from party founder Imran Khan’s “X” (formerly Twitter) account.

Speaking to ARY News, Barrister Gohar said that the PTI founder ‘did not see’ the content of the post from his account.

“Sometimes things are overdone. In the post, the 1971 situation was compared only in the context of the political situation,” the PTI chairman added.

While turning down the impression of ‘dragging’ the army in the matter, he said that the PTI founder cannot see the video editing process of each of his posts.

“The PTI founder had given the guidelines for the posts in the context of the political situation,” Barrister Gohar said.

He said that the background of the posts is mainly about turning the majority into a minority under political circumstances.

“In the post, it was explained how a leader was disqualified and specific seats were stolen,” Barrister Gohar added.

Read More: Raoof Hasan claims deal offers are still available to PTI founder

Earlier, PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan has claimed that deal offers are still available for the former premier.

Talking to ARY News’ program 11th Hour, Raoof Hasan stated that the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) could have been released within ten days if he had agreed to a deal.

“Offers for deals are still available to Imran Khan”.

According to Hasan, the PTI founder had an ‘offer’ during his first ten days in Attock. However, the founder does not believe in making deals and gave preference to remaining in jail.

The PTI leader emphasized that the day the PTI founder calls for protest, people will hit the streets in large numbers.

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Banks to remain closed on Tuesday

KARACHI: Following the government announcement to observe a public holiday on May 28, 2024, all banks remain closed for public dealing on Tuesday across the country, ARY News reported on Monday.

On the occasion of “Youm-e-Takbeer”, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) issued a statement announcing the closure of banks across the country as declared by the government.

Earlier in the day, the incumbent government announced a public holiday on May 28 (Tuesday) to mark the historic day, ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’, when Pakistan emerged as an atomic power.

In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the ‘Youm-e-Takbeer’ is a reminder of the country’s unshakeable commitment to its defense and sovereignty.

“On this day, we unite under the green and white flag to celebrate our nation’s unwavering resolve,” the prime minister added.

He highlighted the significance of May 28, 1998, when Pakistan successfully conducted nuclear tests, making its defense invincible. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure economic security and prosperity for our nation,” he vowed.

The nuclear explosions were conducted in self-defense to respond to India’s aggression of nuclear tests. As a result, Pakistan became the first nuclear power in the Muslim world and seventh in the world.

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PM Shehbaz calls important meeting over power outage

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday took notice of the widespread complaints regarding power outages across various areas of Pakistan, ARY News reported, citing sources.

In response to the power outage complaints from the citizens, the Prime Minister has called for an urgent meeting on the issue scheduled for tomorrow at 12am.

During the meeting, the Power Division will provide a comprehensive briefing to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the current situation regarding load-shedding.

The PM is expected to issue significant directives to address and resolve the issue of load-shedding effectively.

READ: K-Electric warns of power cut to Sindh govt over unpaid dues

Earlier, the rising temperature and prolonged power outages in different areas of Karachi made the lives of the city’s residents miserable, ARY News reported on Friday.

It has been more than 12 hours since Karachi’s Garden West residents are witnessing a power outage as the electric supply has been suspended since 9 am.

A resident claimed that the electricity provider for the metropolis cut off power to the area because several households in the neighborhood failed to pay their monthly power tariff bills.

In a similar incident, the residents of Karachi’s Manghopir area staged a sit-in protest against electricity load-shedding.

The protestors have set up a camp at the electric grid station, with many residents joining the protest.

Despite several rounds of negotiations between protesters and the police, no resolution has been reached.

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Missing four-year-old Ayesha recovered after months in Karachi

KARACHI: The four-year-old girl reportedly went missing on August 14, 2023, from the Numaish roundabout recovered after months from Karachi’s Surjani Town area, ARY news reported on Sunday.

The police officials in a statement revealed that the missing child was residing with a family in the Surjani Town area of Karachi.

Ayesha’s mother, along with the family – taking care of the minor girl for the past 3-4 months – from Surjani [New Lyari area], reached the Azizabad Police Station to report her recovery.

The parents of the minor girl claimed that the family allegedly kidnapped and kept the girl at Surjani Town [New Lyari area].

The child’s family maintained that the people who had the minor girl for the past couple of months deprived her of food and clothing, and had intentions to sell her.

Meanwhile, the mother of the missing girl disclosed a call from an unknown number that informed her about the whereabouts of her missing daughter.

Earlier, the missing Hyderabad girl was recovered by Sindh police from Karachi’s Lighthouse area.

Police said that the girl was allegedly in contact with the young boy from Karachi on social media. The police arrested the boy and girl from the Lighthouse area.

In a statement, the young boy revealed that the girl reached Karachi’s Saddar area alone from Hyderabad at her own will. The arrested boy said in his statement that he wanted to marry the girl, however, they didn’t want to marry without their family’s consent.

The family of the missing girl complained to the Hyderabad market police station, after which a special team has been constituted for investigation.

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PTI to hold talks only when concerns are addressed: Asad Qaiser

ISLAMABAD: Former National Assembly (NA) speaker Asad Qaiser on Sunday lamented the political victimisation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, saying that PTI will only hold talks when its concerns are addressed, ARY News reported.

Speaking at ARY News programme ‘Sawwal Ye Hai’, the PTI leader demanded that the incumbent government take concrete steps to restore the party’s mandate, which he claimed was stolen in the recently-held general elections.

Asad Qaiser said that the government is talking about negotiations, but it needs to take trust-building measures first. He added that the PTI will only hold talks when its concerns are addressed first.

He termed the government’s offer of negotiations ‘a public stunt’, saying that the PML-N was instead using force to suppress his party’s voice.

He also demanded that the issue of Form 45 be discussed in a joint session of parliament, noting that this was the only way to move forward and ensure the legitimacy of the electoral process.

“[Prime Minister] Shehbaz Sharif does not have public support, how will the country be brought out of the crisis”, he asked.

Asad Qaiser warned that if PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif failed to take a “principled stance”, his position in future would be like Chaudhry Shujaat’s.

Earlier, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) took a major U-turn on holding dialogue with establishment following the press conference of Director-General (DG) Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), seeking apology from the party over May 9 events.

Speaking at ARY News programme ‘Khabar’, PTI leader Asad Qaiser said that his party does not want to engage in talks with anyone, emphasising that it only seeks to uphold “constitutional and legal supremacy”.

The former National Assembly (NA) speaker said that PTI believes in the supremacy of the Constitution and the law, and wants all institutions to work within their constitutional limits.

He also mentioned that PTI wants to take along all those who have reservations about the recently-held elections, clarifying that they will not engage with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

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Aleem Khan to attend int’l conference in Tajikistan

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications, Privatisation and Investment Board Abdul Aleem Khan will visit Tajikistan to represent Pakistan in a Two-Day International Regional Conference under “Road to Tien Shan”.

Besides Pakistan, China, India, Armenia, Iran, Turkey and Azerbaijan are included in this international conference commencing from Wednesday.

Speaking to journalists today, Abdul Aleem Khan said Pakistan was already working on the road network from Afghanistan and China to Tajikistan.

He said the construction of new highways will provide access to ports and corridors for commercial markets while such global projects will lead to international cooperation besides promoting trade from Pakistan.

A day earlier, it was reported that a high-level delegation headed by Abdul Aleem Khan will visit Kuwait by end of current month for boosting investment in Pakistan.

The Pakistani delegation is expected to have meetings with Prime Minister of Kuwait and Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Power and Petroleum while Trade Minister of Kuwait will host, said a news release issued here on Friday.

Trade and business activities between the two countries will also be finalized and the visit to Kuwait will be made more useful in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Commerce.

Abdul Aleem Khan presided over the important consultation meeting regarding the visit to Kuwait in which the necessary issues were finalized.

The minister said that during his visit to Kuwait, there will be progress in providing employment to more workforce from Pakistan, especially health professionals and skilled labor, as well as taking the business community into confidence and the private sector.

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Congo virus claims two lives in Attock

ATTOCK: The Congo virus has claimed the lives of two individuals in Attock district, ARY News reported on Saturday.

In response to the medical emergency, the authorities have imposed Section 144 to curb the spread of the virus.

Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza announced a ban on setting up cattle markets across the district.

Additionally, there is a complete ban on the inter-provincial and inter-district transfer of animals to prevent further transmission of the virus.

The Section 144 ban will remain in effect until May 30, as confirmed by Deputy Commissioner Raza.

Last year in November, a patient suffering from Crimean-Congo Haemo­rrhagic Fever (CCHF) died at a private hospital in Karachi.

The deceased was shifted to Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital in Karachi from Quetta on Friday morning. He was on a ventilator.

“A total of 17 patients including both suspected and those who tested positive for CCHF were brought to Karachi. Of them, 2 have been discharged and two passed away,” said Sindh health department spokesperson.

“An emergency has been declared in all government-run hospitals of the province to cope with the situation,” he said.

Balochistan government issued red alert on Sunday over alarming situation of Congo virus fever in province that has claimed 16 lives.

Caretaker Chief Minister Mir Ali Mardan Domki directed the province’s health and livestock departments to take immediate steps to curb the disease.

The chief minister instructed for conveying immediate information about the virus to general public. He also directed for anti-viral spray at livestock farms.

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Karachi police foil milk smuggling attempt worth Rs3m

KARACHI: Maripur police of Karachi on Saturday successfully foiled the smuggling attempt involving Iranian dry milk worth more than Rs 3 million, ARY News reported.

The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Keamari, Faizan Ali, stated that a truck carrying a total of 100 sacks, weighing 2,500 kilograms, of smuggled dry milk was seized.

Earlier this month, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) while conducting seven operations across the country managed to recover 47 kg of drugs and arrested 12 suspects.

He informed that 600 grams of heroin was recovered from a parcel booked for the UK at a courier office in Sialkot.

13 kg heroin was recovered from two suspects arrested near M-1 Motorway Islamabad.

10 kg opium and 320 grams weed were recovered from three accused netted on M-8 Gwadar. 10 kg of Ice was recovered from three Afghans held in the Torkham area while 8 kg of heroin was recovered from two suspects rounded up near Divine Garden Lahore.

4 kg of heroin was recovered from an accused arrested near Bhaini Road Lahore.

The spokesman informed that 1 kg hashish and 130 grams of Ice were recovered from an accused in Tando Thoru, Hyderabad.

Cases under the Anti-Narcotics Act have been registered against the arrested accused while further investigations are under process.

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RO report sought on rigging charges in PP-32

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) sought a report from the Returning Officer of PP-32 Gujrat on a plea filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, ARY News reported

Former Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi approached the ECP against what he termed rigging in the by-election on PP-32 held on April 21.

In the plea, Pervaiz Elahi maintained that the election was ‘manipulated’ throughout the constituency. He told the ECP that, at eighteen polling places, the percentage of female voters was less than 10 percent and at some polling places, the figure was as high as 91 percent

Pervaiz Elahi’s counsel informed the ECP that 832 votes were cast by individuals who were either deceased or out of the country.

While fixing the next hearing for May 29, the ECP also issued notices to Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi and Musa Elahi, the successful candidate.

It is pertinent to mention here that in the by-election held on April 21, Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid’s (PML-Q) Musa Elahi was declared winner with Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi with 71,357 votes. PTI’s Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, backed by Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) could get 37,106 votes

Earlier on May 2, the Election Tribunal at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to submit original Forms 45 and 46 of all three National Assembly constituencies of the capital city

The tribunal comprising Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri of the IHC, heard petitions filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) backed independent candidates including Aamir Mughal from NA-46, Shoaib Shaheen from NA-47, and Ali Bukhari from NA-48.

The candidates who suffered defeats in the February 8 General Elections took their respective cases to the Election Tribunal in the Islamabad High Court after their pleas were rejected by the ECP.

They maintained that the results of the February 8 elections were tampered with and manipulated.

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PTI top brass summoned in intra-party elections case

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has summoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) top leadership after raising further objections to recently-held intra-party elections, ARY News reported on Friday.

The electoral watchdog has issued a notice to Imran Khan-founded party and summoned PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Raoof Hasan, who was the election commissioner in party’s intra-party polls, on May 30.

The notice seeks PTI’s response to the commission’s inquiry into the internal electoral process. The election commission had already sent a detailed questionnaire to PTI, seeking information about the party’s intra-party elections.

Earlier in May, the ECP raised further objections to PTI intra-party elections, questioning the party’s status after ‘losing organisational structure’.

On December 22, 2023, the ECP stripped the PTI of its election symbol due to irregularities in its intra-party elections. The Supreme Court later upheld the ECP order, forcing the party to field its candidates as independents in the Feb 8 general elections.

After the general elections, the party once again conducted its intra-party elections on March 3. The party now demands that the ECP issue its notification.

However, the ECP has once again raised objections to the new party polls and sent a two-page questionnaire to the Imran-founded party.

The electoral watchdog questioned the current “status” of the PTI as a political party, noting that the party did not hold intra-party elections within five years, in accordance with Section 208(1). “Hence, it lost its organisational structure on lapsing of five years,” it stated.

The ECP also questioned why not to start the delisting process of the former ruling party’s registration and imposing a fine for not holding timely intra-party elections.

Section 208(5) reads, “Where a political party fails to conduct intra-party elections as per given time frame in their constitution, a show-cause notice shall be issued to such political party and if the party fails to comply, then the Commission shall impose fine which may extend to Rs200,000 but shall not be less than Rs100,000.”

Read More: PTI seeks intra-party election certificate from ECP

It also questioned the legality of the party’s chief organiser and federal election commissioner appointed by its General Body, while the PTI’s constitution defines appointments on the former position via its National Council on recommendations of the Chief Executive Committee (CEC).

According to the ECP, a political party would be registered in accordance with the old law under the Election Act if it submits certificates within a week after intra-party polls, besides complete records of elected office-bearers, poll data and results. Moreover, it also requires to submit relevant documents in 60 days under the Election Act.

The electoral watchdog also asked the PTI why not to commence its delisting process for not submitting the documents as per the prescribed law.

The commission asked the PTI leadership to submit its response to the observations to proceed further in accordance with the law.

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Pakistan registers surge in poverty rate: report

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) on Friday disclosed an alarming increase in the national poverty rate over the past five years, risen from 38.6 percent to 39.5 percent, ARY News reported.

As per the PIDE research report, Balochistan is the most affected province with 70 percent of its population living below the poverty line, while, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) a 48 percent of the population faces poverty. In Sindh, 45 percent of people are living in poverty, while Punjab has a relatively lower rate at 30 percent.

The report highlighted a clear difference in the poverty rate between rural and urban areas, with rural areas suffer with a 51 percent of poverty rate compared to 17 percent in urban areas across the country.

Additionally, the report further revealed that 26.5 percent of Pakistan’s population lives under substandard condition, while the 49.4 percent of the population deprived of quality education.

However, a total of 24.1 percent people are lack of basic health services.

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PM Shehbaz hails Ireland’s decision to recognise Palestine

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep admiration for the recent decision taken by the Government of Ireland to recognize the state of Palestine.

In a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the Republic of Ireland Simon Harris on Friday, PM Shehbaz also felicitated him on assuming the office.

The prime minister said that Ireland’s decision of recognising Palestine would send a message of hope and solidarity to the innocent Palestinians who were suffering Israel’s brutal atrocities.

“It would also go a long way in promoting the Palestine cause and would urge other countries to follow Ireland,” PM Shehbaz added.

The prime minister said Pakistan has always advocated that a two-state solution, in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, is the only way to bring lasting peace to the Middle East.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to the just struggle of the Palestinian people and lauded the decision of the ICJ to order Israel to stop its assault on Gaza and Rafah.

He also expressed the hope that the oppressed people of Kashmir would receive similar attention from the international community, as they too have been enduring a brutal occupation and denial of fundamental human rights for the last seven decades.

PM Shehbaz hoped that Simon Harris’s dynamism would bring major changes in Ireland.

The prime minister lauded the Irish decision to open its resident mission in Pakistan and said that this new mission, along with Pakistan’s mission in Dublin, would play a vital role in promoting bilateral trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.

PM Shehbaz also extended a cordial invitation to Prime Minister Simon Harris to undertake an official visit to Pakistan.

Prime Minister Simon Harris said that Ireland has taken a principled decision in consultation with other European allies as the extent of Israel’s military action in Gaza could no longer be condoned in any way.

The Irish premier was of the view that this decision was necessary to promote normalisation in the occupied territories.

The two leaders also exchanged views on bilateral ties between Pakistan and Ireland and expressed their common desire to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

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PTI’s Raoof Hassan says he agrees with Rana Sanaullah

KARACHI: The Central Information Secretary of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Raoof Hasan said that he agrees with Rana Sanaullah’s statement, underscoring the importance of collaboration among all political parties in the country, ARY News reported on Thursday.

In a recent episode of ARY News program “Off The Record”, Raoof Hasan expressed optimism about problem-solving, saying “There is always a way, if two individuals are willing to solve the problem.”

He highlighted the significant divide between PTI and JUI-F in the past but noted that both sides are working on Terms of References (TORs) to address issues, indicating a positive shift.

According to Hassan, PTI and JUIF are gradually bridging their differences, which he views as a positive development.

Hassan suggested that Pakistan’s political landscape is evolving and emphasized the potential for change in the country’s constitutional history.

“I agree with Rana Sanaullah’s statement, the political parties must come together on a single page for the progress of Pakistan,” Raoof Hasan said.

Rauf Hassan asserted that during PTI’s tenure, they did not file any cases against opposition parties. Regarding the heroin case involving Rana Sanaullah, Hasan stated that it was not set off by PTI.

Raoof Hasan shared the details of his meeting with the founder of PTI, mentioning the messages sent to Hammad Azhar and other PTI leaders to take the lead of the party, while calling other members to wait for his call.

Hasan discussed a perceived shift in the thinking and attitude of the founder of PTI, indicating a potential change in direction for the political party.

Talking about his recent ‘blade’ attack, the PTI Central Information Secretary, Raoof Hasan, disclosed that he has never traveled with security and prefers to drive his own car.

Recalling the harrowing attack, the PTI secretary disclosed that it was a targeted attack as the assailants mentioned their intention to him during the attack.

“The attackers were accompanied by a person wearing a shawl, why someone wears shawl in this scorching heat?” he questioned.

Meanwhile, the legal team of Hasan is actively engaged in investigating the matter, indicating a proactive approach to address the situation through legal channels.

Responding to a question, Raoof Hasan clarified that PTI founder never expressed a reluctance to engage in dialogue with anyone, asserting that the May 09 riots were not instigated by their side and called for a judicial inquiry on May 09 incidents.

Talking about the evolving dynamics between political parties, Hasan highlighted that the reconciliation between PTI and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) and the narrowing gap between PTI and its former adversaries.

Furthermore, Hassan highlighted that opposition parties have unanimously agreed not to compromise with anyone and have resolved to take actions collectively.

He emphasized the necessity for opposition parties to unite and uphold the supremacy of the constitution and law.

Hassan mentioned his efforts in seeking justice through Election Commission, Tribunals, and High Court, citing clear evidence of electoral mandate theft.

Expressing concerns about media censorship, Hassan questioned how the state could progress if the media is constrained.

He advocated for the principle that the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) should be from the opposition.

Hassan mentioned reports suggesting the government’s intention to bring the matter of Chairman PAC to Parliament.

He disclosed that three names are under consideration for the parliamentary leader position in the National Assembly, which will likely be filled from Punjab.

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No ‘major breakthrough’ in meeting between JUI-F, PTI-led opposition

ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-a-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazalur Rehman said that on national issues, the priorities of political parties should be the same, ARY News reported

Speaking to the media in Islamabad along with a delegation of the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayeen-e-Pakistan that called on hint at his residence, Maulana Fazalur Rehman said that improving relationships and removing bitterness is the need of the hour.

Although the meeting did not result in a major breakthrough, all the parties agreed to continue their interaction for future strategy.

The JUI-F chief said that they welcomed the delegation which came with a ‘positive message’. He said that the meeting mainly focused at having a ‘united’ stance on national issues.

“The Constitution and parliament of Pakistan are losing dignity while the democracy is losing its case. We should have one voice in parliament,” Maulana Fazalur Rehman added.

Speaking on the occasion, Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub expressed gratitude to the JUI-F chief for ‘warmly’ welcoming the delegation.

Read More: Opposition alliance’s delegation to meet Fazalur Rehman

“In the meeting, we had a productive conversation,” he said and asked all opposition parties to join hands with the PTI for ‘protection’ of the constitution.

Omar Ayub said that there is no rule of law in the country, and the constitution is being violated. He said that the police raided the PTI’s central secretariat office in Islamabad for ‘no reason’.

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Gang ‘involved’ in child abuse busted in Karachi

KARACHI: The police on Wednesday busted a gang ‘involved’ in sexually abusing children in Karachi’s Orangi Town and recovered three minors, ARY News reported.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Orangi Town said that three gang members were apprehended while as many children have been recovered by the police.

The SP said that the gang used to lure children with Rs 200-300 and sexually abuse them. The suspects were also involved in recording the children’s videos and supplying them in the area.

The police officer said that the investigation began when a child went missing on May 11. The interrogation in the case led to the discovery of the gang’s activities.

The SP said that one of the suspects named Nisar used to lure children from gaming zones and take them to their hideout. The gang members subjected the children to sexual abuse and supplied them to others as well.

The police officer said that the gang mostly lured children aged 12 to 14 years.

According to police, the suspects used to take the children from one place to another by wearing a helmet of an online motorcycle service to dodge the law enforcers.

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Saudi crown prince okays MoUs with Pakistan on energy, counter-terrorism

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman approved bilateral agreements with Pakistan to enhance cooperation in the energy sector and counter-terrorism, local media reported.

According to the kingdom media outlet, Mohammed bin Salman gave the approvals while chairing a weekly session of the Council of Ministers in Jeddah on Tuesday.

Minister of Media Salman Al Dosary said that during the session, the Council of Ministers reviewed the government’s recent initiatives, including the efforts to boost bilateral and multilateral partnerships in a number of sectors with friendly countries and to strengthen regional and international cooperation.

Salman Al Dosary said that the cabinet authorised the minister of energy or his deputy to negotiate and finalise a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) for energy cooperation with Pakistan.

The minister said that the session chaired by the crown prince and prime minister also approved an agreement between the Saudi Presidency of State Security and Pakistan’s military intelligence agency to combat terrorism and its financing.

It is pertinent to mention here that Crown Prince Salman and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir vowed to strengthen defence cooperation between the two brotherly countries during the latter’s official visit to the Kingdom.

Read More: Ishaq Dar, Saudi FM review preparations for Crown Prince’s visit to Pakistan

Mohammad Bin Salman said the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will always stand with Pakistan in the future as well. He highlighted KSA and Pakistan have historic brotherly and strong relations and both countries have always stood up for each other.

During the visit, the Army Chief also met with Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Chief of General Staff Saudi Armed Forces General Fayyadh Bin Hamed Al Ruwaili, Saudi Assistant Minister of Defense Engineer Talal Abdullah Al Otaibi and other senior military leadership.

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PTI’s Parvez Elahi released from Kot Lakhpat Jail

LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Parvez Elahi was released from Kot Lakhpat Jail on Tuesday following months-long imprisonment, ARY News reported.

The development comes after Lahore High Court (LHC) granted the former Punjab chief minister bail and ordered his release in a case pertaining to an alleged illegal appointment made in the Punjab Assembly.

LHC’s Justice Sultan Tanveer Ahmad pronounced the court verdict reserved earlier. Following the release, the PTI president reached his Zahoor Elahi residence.

In a statement, Elahi expressed his gratitude to supporters for their unwavering support during his recent struggles. “I am thankful to Allah for giving me the courage to remain steadfast. I am also grateful to the judges who stood by the truth and supported me.”

Elahi also thanked those who prayed for him and stood by him during difficult times. He criticised the treatment meted out to him and his party workers in Gujrat, saying, “We were subjected to injustice and oppression, and our mandate was stolen.”

He warned that there would be no reconciliation with the sons of Shujaat Hussain, his brother, until the people of Gujrat forgive them. He also accused Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi of playing a key role in his persecution.

Parvez Elahi reaffirmed his commitment to the PTI and its founder, saying, “I was with the party’s founder [Imran Khan] and will remain with him.”

The former chief minister had moved LHC for post-arrest bail. The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had lodged the case and arrested Parvez on 25 October, 2023.

The ACE spokesperson said Parvez Elahi was arrested in a case pertaining to illegal appointments in the Punjab Assembly. “Elahi made 12 illegal appointments of grade 17 officers in the Punjab Assembly,” the spokesperson claimed.

“Failed candidates were given jobs by manipulating records in the Punjab Assembly,” he said, adding: “Fake testing services were used to benefit corrupt officials during the recruitment process.”

Elahi was initially arrested in the case of recruitments to the Punjab Assembly on June 3 last year.  He was then arrested on September 18 in the case of allegedly illegally appointing Bhatti, following which a Lahore court sent him on judicial remand.

Following month, a judicial magistrate discharged Bhatti in the case but he remained in jail as he was on judicial remand in other corruption cases. Later the same month, Elahi was denied bail in the case.

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Punjab Assembly passes Defamation Bill 2024

LAHORE: Amid strong protest from the opposition benches, the Punjab Assembly on Monday passed the ‘controversial’ Defamation Bill 2024, aimed at curbing the spread of fake news across print, electronic, and social media platforms, ARY News reported.

The assembly witnessed a ruckus when Punjab’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman tabled the ‘controversial’ bill, while the journalists boycotted the proceedings to register their protest.

The bill addresses the pervasive issue of misinformation on social media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Under the bill, defamation case can be filed on those spreading ‘fake news’.

The bill also proposes a fine of up to Rs3 million and special tribunals to hear defamation cases, which will be required to deliver verdicts within six months.

It also mentioned that in cases of allegations against individuals holding constitutional posts, the high court will hear the cases.

According to the bill, the government will provide legal assistance to women and transgender individuals in defamation cases through an official legal team.

Speaking on the Punjab Assembly floor, Opposition Leader Ahmed Khan Bhachar said that the bill is a “black law” and his side of the bench would not be partake in passing the legislation.

HRCP’s reaction

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed grave concern over the defamation bill 2024, with its chairman saying the content and language of the bill is “troubling on several counts”.

“First, it proposes a parallel structure to adjudicate claims of defamation. HRCP has consistently decried special parallel judicial structures on the grounds that they invariably violate fundamental rights and other universally accepted norms governing the fair functioning of the judiciary,” the statement said.

Press release

Punjab defamation bill throttles free expression

Lahore, 20 May 2024. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed grave concern over the draft defamation bill tabled in the Punjab Assembly.

The content and language of the bill is troubling…

— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) May 20, 2024

Second, the bill proposes to set up defamation tribunals while empowering the government to appoint judges at higher allowances and benefits than what are available to the existing provincial judiciary functioning at the district level, it noted.

Third, the statement said all defamation claims have to be resolved within a short span of 180 days. The bill proposes authorizing defamation tribunals to issue preliminary decrees to the tune of PKR 3 million—without trial—immediately on receiving a defamation claim. “This will be a huge blow to freedom of expression and dissent. Such orders are likely to be passed without following due process and ensuring fair trials”.

Fourth, the draft law creates a special category of holders of constitutional office, such as the prime minister, chief justices and military chiefs, among others. Defamation claims pertaining to these categories will be heard by special one-member tribunals comprising a judge of the Lahore High Court. “This provision violates the principle of equality of citizens and equality before the law”, it added.

Journalist community rejects bill

Furthermore, the journalist community also rejected the Defamation Bill 2024, terming it ‘non-democratic’.

Addressing a press conference, Arshad Ansari, the president of the Lahore Press Club, expressed concerns, questioning how new laws can be introduced when there are already existing laws such as the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

He criticised the introduction of the new defamation law, stating, “Today, the journalist community has been attacked, we will not compromise on the freedom of the press.”

“These government members are the ones who introduced the PECA law in Pakistan. When they are in opposition, they become champions of press freedom, but when they come into power, they want to control the media,” Ansari remarked.

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Hanif Abbasi opens up on ‘heated argument’ with Anwaarul Haq Kakar

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) MNA Hanif Abbasi opened up on a brawl with former Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar over the wheat import scandal.

Speaking at ARY News Programme ‘Off the Record’, Hanif Abbasi confirmed that there were heated arguments between him and the former premier. He said that Anwaarul Haq Kakar asked him as if he had come to arrest him?

“I told Anwaarul Haq Kakar that I have no authority to arrest him,” Hanif Abbasi said.

The PML-N lawmaker; however, said that during the heated arguments, there was no discussion about Form 47, a term PML-N’s rivals use to describe alleged rigging in the general elections 2024 held on February 8

Hanif Abbasi emphasized that the PML-N is the largest political party in Punjab and centre.

“We (PML-N) did not loose the elections that’s why we have formed governments in Punjab and the centre. The PML-N has a two-thirds majority in Punjab and is also the largest party at the federal level,” he added.

Earlier, Anwaarul Haq Kakar and Hanif Abbasi indulged in heated arguments over the wheat import scandal.

According to sources, a heated argument took place between the former prime minister and Hanif Abbasi at a private hotel the other day.

“You pointed out us in the wheat scandal the other day. Have you come to arrest us?” Anwaarul Haq Kakar asked Hanif Abbasi.

The sources said that Hanif Abbasi replied, “I swear you are a thief, you have taken a commission in the wheat scandal,”. The PML-N leader went on to say that whatever he said in the television programme was ‘absolutely right’.

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Justice Musarrat Hilali rushed to hospital after health deteriorates

PESHAWAR: Supreme Court of Pakistan Judge, Justice Musarrat Hilali was rushed to hospital after her health deteriorated in Peshawar, ARY News reported.

As per details. Justice Musarrat Hilali was in Peshawar on vacation when her health deteriorated and she was admitted to a local hospital.

However, her condition is now stable and improving. She is currently undergoing treatment at Peshawar Institute of Cardiology.

Acting Chief Justice Minib Akhtar visited her in the hospital to inquire about her health. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Haji Ghulam Ali also visited her in the hospital to wish her a speedy recovery.

Justice Musarrat Hilali last year took oath as Supreme Court of Pakistan judge, becoming the second woman to make it to the country’s apex court after the approval of Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP).

Who is Justice Hilali?

Born in Peshawar on August 08, 1961, Justice Hilali received a law degree from Khyber Law College, Peshawar University and enrolled as an Advocate of District Courts in 1983, as an Advocate of the High Court in 1988 and as an Advocate of the Supreme Court of Pakistan in 2006.

She was also the first woman Additional Advocate General for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from November 2001 to March 2004 and was later appointed as the first woman chairperson Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environment Protection Tribunal.

She also served as the first woman Ombudsman for the Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace. She was elevated to the bench as Additional Judge on March 26, 2013, and confirmed as a permanent judge of the Peshawar High Court on March 13, 2014.

On April 1, 2023, she took oath as the acting CJ of PHC.

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NA-148 Multan: PPP’s Ali Qasim Gilani wins by-election

MULTAN: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) candidate Syed Ali Qasim Gilani emerged victorious in the NA-148 by-election, according to the unofficial and unconfirmed results.

The by-election for the National Assembly seat in Multan was held on Sunday, featuring a fierce contest between PPP’s Ali Qasim Gilani and Barrister Taimur Altaf Malik, the candidate backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Sunni Ittehad Council.

According to unofficial and unofficial results from all 275 polling stations, Ali Qasim Gilani secured 85,850 votes, while his opponent, Barrister Taimur Altaf Malik, garnered 53,449 votes.

Following the announcement of unofficial results, PPP workers danced to the beat outside Gilani House in Multan to express their happiness.

Eight candidates belonging to various political parties were on the run to win the seat vacated following the resignation of Senator Yousuf Raza Gilani who took oath as the Senate Chairman.

The total number of registered voters, according to the Election Commission of Pakistan stands at 213,333, with 111,639 male voters and 101,694 female voters.

The constituency, previously labelled as NA-154 Multan-I in the 2018 election delimitations was re-designated as NA-148 Multan-I.

A comparison of the electoral rolls reveals a reduction of 171,900 votes in 2024 compared to 2018.

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IMF asks Pakistan to ‘impose’ tax on monthly pensions

ISLAMABAD: In another ‘demand’, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission asked Pakistani authorities to impose tax on monthly pensions exceeding Rs 100,000, ARY News reported on Sunday, citing sources.

Sources close to the development revealed that the ‘new bailout programme’ will necessitate pension reforms, with policy talks scheduled to commence tomorrow as negotiations between Pakistan and IMF have reached their final phase.

One of the key components of the new loan program is the imposition of a tax on monthly pensions above Rs 100,000 as ‘insisted’ by the IMF.

The move is expected to get the necessary legislative support aimed at taxing wealthy pensioners.

As negotiations progress, it becomes evident that the ‘new bailout programme’ will mandate stringent economic measures.

Pakistan remains committed to the IMF loan program, with no plans for its replacement.

In order to qualify for the ‘new bailout programme’, Pakistan will need to exercise fiscal discipline, curbing spending and deficits as per IMF stipulations, sources added.

Last week, the IMF mission has ‘asked’ Pakistani authorities to increase general sales tax (GST) to 18 percent.

The demand was put forward by the IMF during four round of talks with Pakistan authorities for a fresh loan.

IMF mission observed that the Pakistan’s sales tax collection system is facing problems as the centre is collecting sales tax on the commodieis, while the provinces on the services.

They suggested sales tax collection should only be done by the federal government. The international lender also demanded to end GST exemption and increase it to 18 per cent on the commodities and service, the sources said.

During the fourth round of talks, the IMF mission also demanded of Pakistan for reforms in the Insurance Sector and formation of a separate regulatory body. The fund also demanded privatisation of three government-owned insurance companies.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation is currently in Pakistan as Islamabad is interested in taking another programme from the international lender to address the finance shortage.

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Ex-AJK premier Sardar Tanveer Ilyas arrested

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, has been arrested in a case related to an attack on a company’s office, ARY News reported.

Sources told ARY News that the former AJK premier was arrested in the case registered at Margalla Police Station.

According to sources, Sardar Tanveer Ilyas is accused of trying to seize the central offices and important documents of Centaurus Mall.

The First Information Report (FIR) was filed by Colonel (retd) Tipu Sultan, Deputy Security In-charge of The Centaurus Mall, naming Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, Muhammad Ali, Anil Sultan, Rizwan, and other unknown individuals as accused.

As per the FIR, Sardar Tanveer, accompanied by an armed group of 20 to 25 individuals, entered office 1708 of Centaurus Mall by breaking the lock, with intentions to take control of the premises.

However, their attempt was thwarted by the vigilant security guards. Sardar Tanveer allegedly issued threats to kill Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan and Sardar Dr Rashid Ilyas Khan, along with their colleagues.

The FIR further states that these individuals subjected the security officer to physical assault, and upon receiving information about the incident, law enforcement officials arrived at the scene, where Sardar Tanveer allegedly fired at Colonel (retd) Tipu Sultan, narrowly missing him.

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Peace can only be achieved through mutual cooperation: Ambassador Charles Delogne

The Ambassador of Belgium in Pakistan, emphasized that peace in the world can only be achieved through mutual cooperation. He expressed hope that there would be no questions about Palestine, but unfortunately, the situation in Israel is also causing concern for Belgium.

The ambassador Charles Delogne was a guest speaker at English Speaking Union of Pakistan, where he highlighted Belgium’s efforts for global peace, mentioning their significant investment of 0.7 percent in the development sector.

The event was organized at a private hotel in Karachi, attended by Patron in chief of ESUP Aziz Memon, President Pervez Madraswala, Kalim Farooqui, and many other diplomats.

He underscored the strong bilateral relations between Belgium and Pakistan, emphasizing the crucial role played by Pakistani students studying in Belgium.

He mentioned that Belgium is also investing in Palestine, reiterating that mutual cooperation is essential for achieving peace worldwide.

He expressed Belgium’s solidarity with Palestine and stated that the situation there is a source of concern for his country as well.

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Kyrgyzstan govt releases initial report on mob violence targeting int’l students

KARACHI: More than 10,000 Pakistani students are currently stuck in Bishkek city of Kyrgyzstan amid a tense situation, ARY News reported on Saturday, citing a government agency report.

The government agency released the preliminary report of the situation in Bishkek, revealing that more than 150,000 international students are currently studying in Kyrgyzstan.

Sources quoting the government agency revealed that around 10,000 Pakistani students are currently in Kyrgyzstan, alongside approximately 15,000 Indian students.

READ: WATCH: Pakistan’s envoy to Kyrgyzstan issues message amid riots

Sources recalled the initiation of the riots in Bishkek stated that, four days ago, local and Egyptian students engaged in a discussion regarding Gaza, which later escalated into a dispute.

On the night of May 17 and 18, more than 300 local students reportedly attacked hostels.

It’s noted that students from various countries reside together in these hostels, and some students from other countries were involved in the vandalism alongside with local students.

Approximately 35 Pakistani students have been admitted to hospitals, though none are in critical condition, as per sources.

READ: Bishkek violence: Pakistan envoy raises concerns with Kyrgyz Deputy FM

However, the government officials denied the reports of rape or death during the riots, and claims circulating on social media regarding such incidents are deemed false, sources added.

Reports indicate that the Pakistani embassy in Bishkek operates with a small mission consisting of two officers.

As per the initial reports, the embassy is actively providing assistance to Pakistani students and maintaining communication with their families.

The Kyrgyz government has deployed security agencies, and preliminary reports suggest that the situation has returned to normal.

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AJK police chief replaced following violent protests

ISLAMABAD: The federal government on Friday replaced the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) days after violent protests against high electricity bills and flour, ARY News reported.

According to a notification issued by the Establishment Division, Abdul Jabbar, a BS-20 officer currently serving in the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), had replaced Dr Sohail Habib Tajik, a BS-20 officer of the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP).

Abdul Jabbar had been transferred and placed at the disposal of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government for his posting as the IGP.

Azad Kashmir witnessed violent clashes between the police and activists of a rights movement amid a wheel-jam and shutter-down strike across the territory, which left at least one police official dead and several others injured.

Sub-inspector Adnan Qureshi succumbed to a gunshot wound in the chest in the town of Islamgarh, where he was deployed to stop a rally for Muzaffarabad under the banner of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

The JAAC, which has traders at the forefront in most parts of the state, had sought the provision of electricity as per hydropower generation cost in AJK, subsidised wheat flour and an end to the privileges of the elite class.

The violent protesters damaged multiple vehicles, including a magistrate’s car at the Poonch-Kotli road. Moreover, markets, trade centres, offices and schools and restaurants remained closed across the AJK.

Later on May 14, the action committee ended protests in AJK against soaring inflation after the government accepted their demands.

The committee called off protests after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced Rs23 billion subsidy package for the people of AJK. “The government accepted all the demands of the protesters yesterday,” the AAC said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the federal government also replaced Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) Operations Islamabad and transferred him to Federal Investigation Agency.

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