ISLAMABAD: PTI wants judicial commission to probe claims by Rawalpindi commissioner, says Gohar Khan Says inquiry report should be shared with the people; Omar Ayub asserts PTI will form govts in Centre and provinces.
Govt formation crisis likely to end
The PML N leadership remains optimistic about the resolution of government formation at the federal level, anticipating an amicable resolution in collaboration with the PPP and other allies. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the sustainability of this arrangement
Ansar Mahmood Bhatti
Islamabad: The recent revelations by the Commissioner of Rawalpindi regarding suspected irregularities in the Rawalpindi division have significantly bolstered the contentions of PTI and other political parties that the 2024 election was marred by extensive rigging and flaws. Although the Commissioner’s statements may be perceived with a certain intent, the gravity of the allegations gains credibility as they originate directly from the individual overseeing Returning Officers and District Returning Officers. His role positions him with a firsthand and nuanced understanding of the events unfolding within his division.
We need to contextualize his revelations within the broader context of government formation at both the federal and provincial levels. Although the PML-N is poised to assume control of the Punjab government, it hesitates to lead the federal government independently due to an insufficient number of seats. Consequently, it must actively seek support from the PPP. However, the fruition of this alliance is still pending, with the PPP possibly making extensive demands in exchange for its support to the PML-N.
The PML N faces a stark reality as it receives a clear message from the authorities that it cannot selectively navigate between the Punjab and federal government responsibilities. The party finds itself in a challenging position, compelled to embrace both roles or relinquish them entirely. The recent revelations by the Commissioner seem to convey a subtle warning to the PML N leadership. If the 39 seats, encompassing both the national and Punjab assembly, within the Rawalpindi division undergo reexamination, there is a tangible risk of the party losing its majority in the Punjab assembly. Furthermore, such a reevaluation may also erode the party’s standing in the national assembly, significantly impacting its overall political influence.
Undoubtedly, whoever assumes control of the federal government will find themselves navigating treacherous waters due to formidable economic and political challenges. The PPP is prudent in its reluctance to engage with this fragile setup, recognizing the inherent risks that could ultimately sideline the party from the political landscape should it fail to meet the expectations of the public.
Political analysts express reservations about nominating Maryam Nawaz as the Punjab chief minister, citing concerns over the historical tensions between the Establishment and the PML-N, exacerbated by the assertive stances of both Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz. Despite the PML-N’s assertive desire to initiate a fresh chapter by leaving behind past conflicts, it is anticipated that the Establishment may require a considerable amount of time to come to terms with this shift in dynamics.
The PML N leadership remains optimistic about the resolution of government formation at the federal level, anticipating an amicable resolution in collaboration with the PPP and other allies. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the sustainability of this arrangement, with uncertainties about whether it will endure in the long term or face a premature collapse.
It is imperative for the PML N leadership to engage in proactive measures to strengthen the foundations of this coalition, fostering effective communication, mutual understanding, and shared goals among the involved parties.
As per the understanding the PPP will get ministries in the federal and Punjab government while in Balochistan both PPP and PML N will form a coalition government with PPP getting the Punjab chief minister slot.
Two Start-Ups of SSKIC-IoBM win at National Idea Bank 2024
DNA
Karachi: Digibook and Creative 3D, two start-ups at the Institute of Business Management’s Shahjehan S. Karim Incubation Centre (SSKIC) emerged as the top ideas at the third edition of the National Idea Bank (NIB). They were presented with the awards by the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, at a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday, February 15, 2024. The NIB was organized by the National University of Technology (NUTECH) in collaboration with ASPIRE Pakistan. While addressing the occasion, President Dr Arif Alvi called for providing an enabling environment for youth to nurture their intellectual abilities and benefit from their innovative ideas for the country’s prosperity. He added that the Pakistani youth who is blessed with enormous potential needed a platform to transform their ideas into competitive and quality products to increase the country’s exports and reduce imports.
Digibook and Creative 3D have been selected, out of over two thousand entries from across Pakistan, to visit Silicon Valley to engage in mentorship and networking sessions. The awards were presented to the Founder of Digibook, Aurangzaib Alamgir, who is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the SSKIC-IoBM; and to the Co-Founder and CEO of Creative 3D, Bilal Afridi. Creative 3D is an alumni start-up at SSKIC’s Cohort-I. Founder and Director of Creative3D, Atif Baig, an IoBM alumnus, was also present. Moreover, the Co-Founder of Digibook, Rida Zehra, is also an IoBM alumna. Accompanying IoBM’s start-ups at the ceremony was Mr. Raza Abbas, Focal Person, National Idea Bank at IoBM, and the Head of Incubation, SSKIC-IoBM.
Euro Village festivities: much ado about nothing
Although it was supposed be an entry with family only, stags in large numbers easily got through the scanner gate installed and managed jointly by the EU and private security personnel; many had to return simply because there were not enough parking facilities
By AB Khan
The tin walls erected around the grounds of the Convention Center Islamabad depicted a sight of a citadel. Islooties and Pindi boys thronged the venue in large numbers to see what was all the hype of “Euro Village 2024” was about. Although it was supposed to be an entry with family only, stags in large numbers easily got through the scanner gate installed and managed jointly by the EU and private security personnel. Stall bearing European Union signs were right at the entrance of the ground where 10 to 15 stalls from different EU member countries in the likes of Austria, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Hungary, Greece, Germany, Finland, Romania, Poland could be spotted with a naked eye.
To being with, most of the stalls were empty and free giveaways like T-shirts, shopping bags, Mugs etc were all gone within first two hours according to the Spanish councilor who was giving explanations to the visitors that we were not expecting so many people so early. Moreover, many visitors had to return because there were not enough parking facilities available. The scarcity of parking spaces led to significant traffic congestion on the main roads connecting Rawalpindi and Murree, creating challenges for individuals unrelated to the Euro Village festivities. This issue not only inconvenienced residents and commuters but also impacted the overall flow of traffic, exacerbating the already bustling nature of these key thoroughfares.
Although the Dutch stall was busy putting mixed flour to make truffles in the electric oven, the other Dutch delicacies were long gone.
As the EU member State pegged their stalls in a “L” shape formation, local stalls of food vendors were seen selling in the other corner . Cakes, Waffles, Channa chat, fries and other munches were being sold like hot cakes as vendors looked quite busy doing good business.
The highlight of the evening was the live performance by Qurat ul Aain Baluch also known as QB of drama Humsafar theme song.
The idea to hold EU Village event started off a few years ago with great fanfare bringing together EU member states to showcase their food, artefacts and local traditional culture with foreign musical bands mesmerizing the audience , magician performing to give a share of laughter to children and fusion of Pakistani and European music with families enjoying a sunny day out .
This year the event looked more of a local mela rather than an EU presentation of their culture and traditions.
It would be nice to see, stalls with traditional food to taste, ceramics and artefacts to buy and hosts in their traditional attires to fascinate the Pakistani visitors with their fashion haute couture.
The best thing about this event was that EU Village was visa free!
Taliban govt sets terms for UN-hosted Doha talks
KABUL, FEB 18: Taliban authorities said on Saturday their participation in UN-convened Afghanistan talks would be “unbeneficial” if certain conditions were not met, a day before meetings were due to kick off.
Special envoys to Afghanistan are due to launch two days of talks in the Qatari capital on Sunday, aimed at discussing more coordinated international engagement with Afghanistan.
The meeting is a follow-up to talks held in Doha in May 2023, to which no Afghans were invited. But this time, both Afghan civil society members and the Taliban authorities have been invited to the upcoming meeting.
So far, the nature and extent of Taliban government’s participation is still unclear, with officials saying a delegation was unlikely to attend if certain conditions were not met.
Recognition as sole official representative of Afghanistan is one of the conditions
On Saturday, the foreign ministry said it had reiterated its conditions to the United Nations.
“If the Islamic Emirate is to participate as the sole official representative of Afghanistan and if there exists an opportunity to hold frank talks between the Afghan delegation and the UN about all issues on a very senior level, then participation would be beneficial,” a ministry statement said.
“Else, ineffective participation by the Emirate due to non-progress in this area was deemed unbeneficial.”
A senior diplomatic source said that the Taliban delegation had requested a face-to-face with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the talks to present him with their position, and that they be the only Afghans at the Doha meetings.
The Taliban government has not been officially recognised by any country since seizing power, after the chaotic withdrawal of US troops in August 2021.
States have taken varied approaches to relations with the new authorities, with issues such as restrictions on women’s rights and security concerns as key obstacles.
Shaukat Agricultural Industry’s Rotary Slasher Redefines Pakistani Farming
BHAWANA: Shaukat Agricultural Industry, a prominent name synonymous with excellence, has once again introduced an innovative product set to revolutionize the agricultural market in Pakistan. The industry unveiled its latest offering, the Rotary Slasher, during an agriculture expo held in the Chiniot district on Friday, February 16.
The agriculture expo, organized by the Chiniot district office of the Agriculture Department of the Government of Punjab and local agriculturalists, took place just outside Bhawana city. It featured a diverse range of agricultural and farm machinery, pesticides, fertilizers, seeds, and related products from both small and large companies, including Engro Fertilizers, Fauji Fertilizer Company, Syngenta, Bayer, Tara Group, and Millat Tractors.
The Rotary Slasher is a farm equipment designed for cutting and clearing grass, crops, and weeds in agricultural fields in Pakistan. It comprises rotating blades that spin horizontally, powered by a tractor or other suitable machinery. Widely adopted by farmers in Pakistan, the rotary slasher is a vital tool for field maintenance, ensuring proper crop growth by keeping vegetation in check. Particularly valuable in areas where manual labor is challenging or time-consuming, this versatile tool allows farmers to save time and effort while effectively managing their fields. Ultimately, the rotary slasher contributes to enhancing agricultural productivity in Pakistan.
Prior to this, Shaukat Industry has been at the forefront of manufacturing and delivering various essential agricultural equipment across Pakistan. Notable among these are tractor-mounted items such as Trolley (18 ft), Trailer (30 ft), Hydraulic Tipping Trolley (12, 14, 16, 18 ft), and Bumper. Additionally, they offer an array of other tractor-mounted products, including a rotavator, reaper, plough, thresher, cultivator, front blade, back blade, back hook, back seat, roof, disc plough, and more.
Shaukat Agricultural Industry, recognized for its engineering prowess, unique design, and product reliability, stands out with the distinctive truck art adorning its offerings. Established around 1986 by the intellectually and engineering-minded Haji Shaukat Ali Lohar, a scion of the Lohar family, the industry traces its roots to his blacksmith father, Haji Ameer Ali. Starting as a small shop, Haji Shaukat Ali Lohar’s dedication and hard work transformed the business into an industry within a few years. Personally overseeing the engineering, design, and invention of each agricultural product, he has become a trendsetter in the industry.
In Punjab, where agricultural equipment manufacturers often replicate or associate with established designs, Shaukat Industry has earned its place as a leader. Located on Jhang-Chiniot Road in Bhawana, it has evolved into one of the top companies specializing in the manufacturing of rotary slashers in Pakistan. Locally renowned as the Shaukat Zarai Industry, it continues to be a driving force in advancing agricultural technology in the country.
Hamas chief insists on Gaza ceasefire
GAZA STRIP: Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh on Saturday reiterated the group’s demand of a complete ceasefire in Gaza, a day after US President Joe Biden called for a “temporary truce” to secure the release of hostages.
High-level negotiations to pause the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza were held this week in Cairo but their outcome is still unclear.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Qatar-based Haniyeh reiterated the group’s several demands, including an end to fighting in Gaza.
“The resistance will not agree to anything less than ceasefire, withdrawing of the occupying army from the Strip, lifting the oppressive blockade, and providing safe shelter for the displaced people,” he said.
Haniyeh insisted that those displaced from the north be returned to their areas in the territory. He also called for the release of Hamas prisoners sentenced to long jail terms in Israel.
On Friday Biden called for a temporary truce in Gaza to get hostages out of the Palestinian territory under a potential deal swapping them for prisoners held in Israel.
“I feel very strongly about it – that there has to be a temporary ceasefire to get the prisoners out, to get the hostages out,” Biden said from the White House.
He added that he had held “extensive” conversations with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on this and negotiations were “underway”.
Netanyahu had previously rejected what he labelled Hamas’s “bizarre demands”.
Earlier this week CIA director William Burns joined talks in Cairo with David Barnea, head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence service. These talks were mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
Israeli families of hostages held in Gaza have stepped up pressure on Netanyahu to arrive at a deal for securing the release of captives.
During the October 7 attack, some 250 hostages were taken to the Gaza Strip, of which roughly 130 are still being held there, according to Israeli officials.
Thirty of them are believed to be dead, while more than 100 had been freed during a one-week truce that ended on December 1.
Three hostages were ‘mistakenly’ killed by Israeli soldiers in December, while some have been rescued in military operations.
The October 7 attack itself resulted in the deaths of around 1,160 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.
In Israel’s relentless military aggression in Gaza, at least 28,858 people have been killed, most of them women and children, according to the territory’s health ministry.
ECP forms committee to probe Rawalpindi commissioner’s explosive allegations of polls rigging
ISLAMABAD: Startling claims by Liaquat Ali Chatha of abetting large-scale electoral rigging throw shade at polls result. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has formed a high-level committee to probe the serious allegations levelled by Rawalpindi Division Commissioner Liaqat Ali Chatha.
The decision was made during an emergency meeting held to discuss the commissioner’s allegations. Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja attended the meeting via video link.
Security forces neutralize 9 terrorists in two operations in KP: ISPR
RAWALPINDI, 17 FEB /DNA/ – On 16-17 February 2024, 9x terrorists have been sent to hell by security forces in two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.
In an intelligence based operation conducted by the security forces in Tank District, two terrorists; HVT Terrorist Rehmat Ullah @Badar Mansur and Ts Amjad @Babri were killed.
In an another operation conducted in South Waziristan District, after intense fire exchange, seven terrorists were sent to hell.
Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area against the security forces as well as extortion and target killing of innocent civilians.
However, during the operation, a brave son of the soil, Sepoy Shahzeb Aslam (age 29 years; resident of district Haripur), having fought gallantly, embraced Shahadat.
Security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe-out the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve.
Meeting in Qatar of special envoys on Afghanistan begins Sunday
DOHA: On Sunday, Qatar will host a meeting of the special envoys on Afghanistan. The UN Secretary General’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, said that in the Doha meeting, the voices of Afghan women will be heard very loud and clear.
Dujarric said that envoys will meet with the “Taliban,” civil society and women’s groups, although in Saturday, although in a statement on Saturday the Islamic Emirate said it would not attend unless its conditions were met.
“The centre point of our concern and of our work in Afghanistan has been the restoration of the dignity, the human rights of women and girls. This meeting will be a meeting of envoys on Afghanistan. So, both from regional organizations, from Member States — there will be a meeting with the Taliban, but there will also be a meeting of envoys with civil society, including women’s groups, because it’s important that the voices of Afghan women be heard very loud and clear,” Dujarric added.
Ahead of the upcoming UN-convened meeting of Special Envoys on Afghanistan taking place in Doha on February 18 and 19, Deprose Muchena, Senior Director at Amnesty International, said that the Doha meeting is a significant opportunity for a unified and concerted action to protect the rights of all Afghan people.
“The upcoming Doha meeting is a significant opportunity for a unified and concerted action to protect the rights of all Afghan people, particularly the rights of women and girls. The culture of impunity that enables the Taliban’s ongoing grave human rights violations needs to be addressed urgently,” Muchena said.
“Afghan people, especially women and girls, expect the Doha meeting to take practical steps to ensure their security and rights,” Lima Shirzai, a women’s rights activist.
Meanwhile, Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security said in a statement: “As the special envoys navigate how to engage with Afghanistan, their approach must also incorporate the perspectives of Afghan women and girls.”
“If the Independent Assessment is meant to serve as the roadmap for the international community’s strategy towards Afghanistan, then its recommendations cannot afford to forsake the status of half of the population. As the special envoys navigate how to engage with Afghanistan, their approach must also incorporate the perspectives of Afghan women and girls,” the statement reads.
In the meantime, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan said in a statement that Asif Durrani, Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan will lead the Pakistani delegation at the Meeting of the Special Envoys on Afghanistan.
Pakistan’s MOFA added: “Pakistan’s participation in the meeting is part of our efforts to actively engage with the international community, including the United Nations, to strengthen the efforts for lasting peace and prosperity in Afghanistan.”
“International institutions, including the UN and other countries, are interested in finding solutions to Afghanistan’s economic, political and social problems, which they can address by starting political and diplomatic dialogues between Afghans,” said Najib Rahman Shamal, a political analyst.
Earlier, TOLOnews has seen a list showing that representatives from Russia, China, Iran, India, Japan, Tajikistan, US, France, Germany, and the EU will take part in the Doha meeting.
The Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Emirate in a statement said the participation of the Islamic Emirate in the Doha meeting would be “unbeneficial.”
“The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan believed that the meeting of Special Envoys for Afghanistan being convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in the capital of Qatar, Doha, was a good opportunity to hold frank and productive dialogue on issues of disagreement. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified to the UN that if the Islamic Emirate is to participate as the sole official representative of Afghanistan and if there exists an opportunity to hold frank talks between the Afghan delegation and the UN about all issues on a very senior level, then participation would be beneficial. Else, ineffective participation by the Emirate due to non-progress in this area was deemed unbeneficial,” the statement reads.
