Bureau Report

LAHORE: Incarcerated PTI leader Ejaz Chaudhry was admitted to a hospital in Lahore on Wednesday as his health deteriorated due to a kidney infection, his lawyer said.

On Monday, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore sentenced Chuadhry and other PTI leaders to 10 years in prison in cases related to the May 9 riots. A day later, the court ordered the confiscation of properties owned by them.

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On Saturday, Chaudhry was among other PTI leaders who filed appeals in the Lahore High Court against their convictions by ATCs. He pleaded the court to suspend his sentence and conviction, along with ordering his release on bail. In his second petition, he further requested the court to set aside his conviction and acquit him in the case in the “interest of justice”.

Speaking to Dawn.com today, Chaudhry’s lawyer Rana Mudassar confirmed that various tests were being conducted on the PTI leader, who was shifted to the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute in Lahore on Wednesday morning.

“He is suffering a severe kidney infection and has seven gallstones,” Mudassar said.

The lawyer added that Chaudhry was treated at Kot Lakhpat jail, where he is currently incarcerated, but his health did not improve. “He has lost 22 kgs.”

Last month, a Lahore ATC had sentenced Dr Yasmin, Chaudhry, Cheema, Rashid and others to 10 years in prison over a May 9 riots case related to violence on Sherpao Bridge.

Senator Chaudhry, who has been under medical care for a heart condition, was reportedly admitted to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) after suffering heart pain on Feb 20.

In March, a Senate committee issued a stern warning over the failure to implement the production order of Chaudhry, emphasising potential consequences for non-compliance.

Caa1 reflects Pakistan’s improving external position, supported by progress under the IMF programme: Moody’s

Mahnoor Ansar/DNA

ISLAMABAD: Moody’s Ratings on Wednesday upgraded Pakistan’s credit rating with a stable outlook from Caa2 to Caa1, citing the country’s improved financial position supported by a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Upgrade was secured after similar moves by S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings in the past four months following repeated pledges by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government to stay the course on fiscal consolidation and multiple reforms, it said in a statement.

Moody’s Ratings, in a statement, said that it has upgraded Pakistan’s local and foreign currency issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to Caa1 from Caa2.

“We have also upgraded the rating for the senior unsecured MTN programme to (P)Caa1 from (P)Caa2. Concurrently, we changed the outlook for the Government of Pakistan to stable from positive.”

The upgrade to Caa1 reflects Pakistan’s improving external position, supported by its progress in reform implementation under the IMF Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme, the agency said.

It added that foreign exchange reserves are likely to continue to improve, although Pakistan will remain dependent on timely financing from official partners.

Meanwhile, Moody’s said, the sovereign’s fiscal position is also strengthening from very weak levels, supported by an expanding tax base.

Its debt affordability has improved, but it remains one of the weakest among rated sovereigns. The Caa1 rating also incorporates the country’s weak governance and high political uncertainty.

The stable outlook also reflects balanced risks to Pakistan’s credit profile. On the upside, improvements in the debt service burden and external profile could be more rapid than we currently expect.

On the downside, there remains risks of delays in reform implementation required to secure timely official financing, which would in turn weaken Pakistan’s external position again.

The upgrade to Caa1 from Caa2 rating also applies to the backed foreign currency senior unsecured ratings for The Pakistan Global Sukuk Programme Co Ltd, Moody’s said.

The rating agency said that the associated payment obligations are, in its view, direct obligations of the Pakistani government. “Concurrently, we changed the outlook for The Pakistan Global Sukuk Programme Co Ltd to stable from positive, mirroring the stable outlook on the Government of Pakistan.”

Concurrent to today’s action, Moody’s has also raised Pakistan’s local and foreign currency country ceilings to B2 and Caa1 from B3 and Caa2, respectively.

The two-notch gap between the local currency ceiling and sovereign rating is driven by the government’s relatively large footprint in the economy, weak institutions, and high political and external vulnerability risk.

The two-notch gap between the foreign currency ceiling and the local currency ceiling reflects incomplete capital account convertibility and relatively weak policy effectiveness. It also takes into account risks of transfer and convertibility restrictions being imposed.

LAHORE, AUG 13: In a fresh policy shift, the Punjab government has decided to reopen schools for classes 9th and 10th, O Level, A Level, and Intermediate students from August 18, reversing its earlier move to extend summer holidays until September.

Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said the change came after consultations with education experts, who recommended an early start for senior classes to avoid academic disruption.

Higher grades back to class on Aug 18
According to the new schedule, all public and private schools across Punjab will welcome back:

9th and 10th grade students

O Level and A Level classes

Intermediate (FA/FSc) students

These grades will resume studies on Monday, August 18.

Younger students return in September
Students from 1st to 8th grade will return to classrooms from September 1, in line with the government’s initial heatwave-related extension of summer vacations.

Also Read: Punjab extends summer holidays for schools

Applies to all educational institutions
The revised directive is binding for both public and private schools in the province. Education authorities have instructed institutions to ensure heatwave safety measures, including availability of drinking water, ventilation, and adjusted school hours where necessary.

Last week, in response to the ongoing heatwave across Punjab, the provincial government decided to extend summer vacations for both public and private schools. Students were told by by the School Education Department to return to classrooms on September 1.

Holidays extended to protect students
The decision came amid rising concerns over high temperatures and their health impact on children. Initially scheduled to reopen in mid August, schools were supposed to remain closed throughout the month to ensure student safety.

ISLAMABAD, AUG 13: /DNA/ – On this momentous occasion of Independence Day, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to the entire nation. The 14th of August not only renews our cherished memories of freedom but also reminds us of the great struggle and unparalleled sacrifices made by our forefathers for the creation of our beloved homeland. Millions of Muslims of the subcontinent gave their lives, abandoned their homes, and sacrificed their properties so that we could live in a free, sovereign state—guided by our faith, culture, and traditions. These sacrifices will forever serve as a beacon for future generations, proving that when a nation moves forward in unity and determination, success is inevitable.

The creation of Pakistan was the fulfilment of Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s vision and the result of the wise and resolute leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. On 14th August 1947, we emerged on the world map as an independent and sovereign nation. This day reminds us that independence is a priceless blessing—its protection, survival, and stability are the shared responsibility of every citizen. I urge all parliamentarians to rise above political affiliations and contribute selflessly towards the progress, prosperity, and stability of our country.

I pay rich tribute to the Armed Forces of Pakistan, our security institutions, and law enforcement agencies who, through their unceasing sacrifices, safeguard the freedom and sovereignty of our homeland. On this day, we also remember our Kashmiri and Palestinian brothers and sisters who continue their valiant struggle against oppression for their right to self-determination. Pakistan will steadfastly continue its moral, diplomatic, and political support for these oppressed peoples until they achieve their rightful destiny.

The history of the Pakistan People’s Party is one of sacrifice and service. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, ensuring the invincibility of our defence. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto laid down her life for the restoration of democracy and the eradication of extremism. President Asif Ali Zardari secured provincial autonomy through the historic 18th Constitutional Amendment, while today, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is working with dedication as a young leader to promote Pakistan’s development and enhance its positive image on the global stage.

As the Upper House of Parliament—the symbol of the Federation—we firmly believe that a strong, transparent, and effective parliamentary system is the guarantee of national unity, stability, and progress. Overcoming Pakistan’s challenges demands national cohesion, inter-provincial harmony, political stability, and collective action. Our youth are our greatest asset, and by investing in their education, skills, and character-building, we pave the surest path to lasting prosperity.

Let us, on this Independence Day, renew our pledge to work together for a peaceful, prosperous, democratic, and strong Pakistan—a Pakistan that truly reflects the vision of our martyrs, the ideals of our founders, and the aspirations of our great leaders.

RAWALPINDI, AUG 13 /DNA/ – The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) marked Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day with a flag hoisting ceremony and “Marka e Haq” celebrations. Federal Minister for Finance, Muhammad Aurangzeb, attended as the chief guest. The event also featured the cutting of an Independence Day cake.

Upon arrival, the Finance Minister was warmly received by RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former presidents, executive committee members, representatives from trade associations, and a large number of chamber members. Additional Director General ML&C Rana Manzoor, Chairman of Tehreek-e-Naujawanan Pakistan, and other dignitaries were also present. A documentary highlighting the Chamber’s ongoing initiatives was screened.

In his address, RCCI President Usman Shaukat thanked the Finance Minister for his presence and lauded Pakistan’s journey of resilience, sacrifice, and hope over the past 78 years. He saluted the armed forces for their recent victory in Marka-e-Haq. Highlighting recent improvements in economic indicators, he urged the government to further lower interest rates to single digits, reduce electricity and gas tariffs, and cut tax rates to stimulate business activity and job creation.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb welcomed the Chamber’s suggestions, affirming that the government, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, is prioritizing a business-friendly environment. Addressing the business community, he noted that consumer confidence is at its peak, economic growth is at record levels, and privatization of state-owned enterprises will accelerate this year. He reported record-high foreign exchange reserves, an improved domestic business climate, and called for unity to move the country forward.

The Minister extended advance Independence Day greetings, emphasizing that faith, national unity, security, and economic stability are inseparable. Over the past 18 months, he said, significant steps have been taken to boost revenue, stabilize the rupee, and reduce the policy rate. Agricultural loans have surpassed PKR 2.5 trillion, debt servicing reached PKR 1 trillion last year, and debt has increased by 41%.

He highlighted strong stock market performance driven by new investors, ongoing rightsizing in 45 ministries, pension reforms, and initiatives to lower electricity prices. The Prime Minister is personally overseeing FBR transformation meetings, ensuring no extra tax burden on salaried individuals, while working to close loopholes and broaden the tax base.

Aurangzeb also shared that international financial institutions have acknowledged Pakistan’s reforms. A tariff agreement with the U.S. has been reached, discussions with the IMF are underway, and after 2.5 years, USD 1 billion in Middle Eastern investment has been secured.

Concluding, the Finance Minister expressed optimism for the future, stating that the economy has stabilized, interest rates have been significantly reduced, and there is room for further cuts, with another reduction expected soon.=DNA

ISLAMABAD, AUG 13 /DNA/ – The United States of America and Pakistan held the latest round of the U.S.-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad on August 12, 2025, reaffirming their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Special Secretary for the United Nations, Nabeel Munir, and U.S. Department of State Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory D. LoGerfo.

Both delegations underscored the critical importance of developing effective approaches to terrorist threats, including those posed by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), ISIS-Khorasan, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

The United States of America applauded Pakistan’s continued successes in containing terrorist entities that pose a threat to the peace and security of the region and the world. Furthermore, the United States of America expressed condolences for the loss of civilians and members of law enforcement agencies in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, including the barbaric Jaffar Express terrorist attack and the bombing of a school bus in Khuzdar.

Both delegations emphasized the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks and developing capabilities to respond to security challenges and to counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes.

Both sides reaffirmed their intention to work closely in multilateral fora, including the United Nations, to promote effective and enduring approaches to counterterrorism.

Reaffirming the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the United States of America, both sides emphasized that sustained and structured engagement remains vital to countering terrorism and promoting peace and stability.

ISLAMABAD, AUG 13 /DNA/ – Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, attended a special ceremony at Capital Hospital on the occasion of Maarka-e-Haq and Independence Day celebrations. The event was also attended by CDA Member Administration and Estate Talat Mehmood, Executive Director Capital Hospital Dr. Naeem Taj, Secretary General CBA Chaudhry Muhammad Yasin, along with paramedical staff, hospital administration, and a large number of citizens.

The Chairman CDA participated in the national anthem and flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by a special prayer for Pakistan’s sovereignty, unity, and stability.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad said that extensive preparations have been made this year to celebrate 14 August. These preparations involve the Islamabad Administration, law enforcement agencies, CDA, Capital Hospital, DMA, and MCI. “Together, we are sending out the message that we are united and working with full enthusiasm and dedication for our homeland. God willing, we will contribute whatever we can to this cause,” he said. He added that the Islamabad Administration and CDA have planned a variety of events this year, which are being held with great zeal and fervour. “We have decorated the entire city of Islamabad like a bride—not just VIP areas, but every locality in the capital has received equal attention.”

Muhammad Ali Randhawa further said that Islamabad is already a green and beautiful city, but it has been further adorned with decorative lighting for the occasion. Various Independence Day events are also being organised, such as a cycling race at D-Chowk and multiple sports activities.

He noted that civil society has also played a vital role in decorating the city and celebrating Independence Day. “Shopping centres and commercial hubs across Islamabad have been decorated like a bride,” he said. He added, “Our civil society, business community, CBA office bearers, and all of us together are sending the message that, ahead of this Independence Day, Allah Almighty has elevated Pakistan’s honour worldwide due to Maarka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. This honour and respect have been achieved because of our martyrs and veterans, to whom we pay heartfelt tribute.”

On the occasion, he prayed with sincerity for Allah Almighty to bless the nation with the fruits of its good intentions and efforts, and to grant the ability to work even harder for the country. “We are ready to sacrifice our life, wealth, and everything for the sake of this nation,” he affirmed.

The Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad further stated that various events are being held across the city to celebrate Independence Day with full enthusiasm. Colourful programmes are being organised at the Sports Complex, F-9 Park, and other locations. “Families are encouraged to participate in these festivities, as we have made Islamabad a completely safe city with the help of law enforcement agencies,” he assured.

He also made it clear that anyone causing trouble during these events—particularly those creating a nuisance by blowing loud horns or disturbing families—will be dealt with firmly and without leniency.