Author: Ayan Achakzai

Article 63-A in Pakistan: A Deep Dive into Historical Applications, Controversies, and the Supreme Court Review Article 63-A of Pakistan’s Constitution addresses the disqualification of lawmakers on the grounds of defection. This article has been a focal point of debate, with the Supreme Court of Pakistan revisiting its 2022 verdict. The current five-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, is reviewing whether the votes of dissident lawmakers should be counted. This review has sparked new conversations about the role of defections in Pakistani politics and the implications of this article on party discipline. What Is Article 63-A? Article…

Pakistan to Abolish 150,000 Jobs, Close Ministries Under IMF Loan Deal Pakistan has announced significant reforms to reduce administrative expenditures, including the abolition of 150,000 government jobs and the closure of six ministries. These changes are part of the country’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under a $7 billion loan deal aimed at stabilizing the economy. IMF Loan Conditions and Government Reforms On September 26, the IMF approved the first tranche of over $1 billion following Pakistan’s commitment to implementing tough economic reforms. These include cutting public sector expenditures, expanding the tax base, and taxing non-traditional sectors such…

Punjab Section 144 Expansion: Government Tables Bill to Extend Powers The Punjab provincial government has proposed a bill to expand the powers granted under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The bill, introduced in the provincial assembly, seeks to extend the duration during which restrictions on public gatherings can be imposed. Proposed Changes to Section 144 in Punjab Currently, Section 144 allows the government to impose restrictions for up to two days, extendable to seven days if there is a risk to public safety. The new amendment, however, would allow the Deputy Commissioner to extend these restrictions…

Karachi Protests Over Nasrallah Killing: Clashes with Police Near U.S. Consulate Protests erupted in Karachi on Sunday as demonstrators clashed with police while attempting to reach the U.S. consulate. The rally was organized in response to the killing of Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike. Protesters, numbering around 3,000, chanted anti-American slogans and carried posters of Nasrallah. Clashes Between Protesters and Police Tensions escalated when stone-throwing protesters breached police barricades, leading to clashes with law enforcement. Seven police officers were injured during the confrontation and are currently receiving treatment. Police Deputy Inspector General Asad Raza stated that…

PM Shehbaz Sharif Lauds Army Chief’s Role in Securing IMF Program Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the role of General Asim Munir and friendly countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China in securing the $7 billion IMF program. He also called for expanding Pakistan’s tax network, emphasizing that the “elite must also make sacrifices” to ensure the country’s progress. IMF Program Support and International Collaboration Speaking at a press conference in London after attending the UN General Assembly session, PM Shehbaz Sharif highlighted how Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China played a crucial role in making the IMF deal…

Natasha Danish Granted Bail in Drug Case After Karsaz Road Accident The Sindh High Court (SHC) approved the bail application of Natasha Danish, the driver involved in the Karsaz road accident, in a drug-related case. Danish’s bail was granted against surety bonds worth Rs1 million. Background of the Karsaz Road Accident On August 19, Natasha Danish was driving a speeding Toyota Land Cruiser that collided with three motorcycles and another car on Karsaz Road, Karachi. The accident claimed the lives of Imran Arif, 60, and his 22-year-old daughter Amna, while three others were injured. Danish was arrested at the scene…

Chinese Investment in Pakistan Gains Momentum At a recent business event in Beijing, 25 major Chinese firms expressed their keen interest in investing in Pakistan. These companies are exploring opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare, highlighting Pakistan as a promising market for growth. Why Pakistan? This event, held in Chaoyang District, Beijing, saw top firms from industries including automobiles and medical supplies show interest in Pakistan’s business landscape. The country’s young population and abundant resources make it an attractive destination for Chinese investment. Investors see Pakistan’s growing market as an opportunity to boost business and collaboration between…

Ban on X in Pakistan: National Security Over Free Speech? The ban on X in Pakistan has sparked debates, but Information Minister Attaullah Tarar clarified that the restriction was imposed due to national security concerns, not to suppress freedom of expression. He explained that compliance issues prompted the decision ahead of the upcoming elections. National Security and the Ban on X The Ministry of Interior has defended the ban, explaining that it does not violate the right to free speech. The restriction was implemented to curb misuse by terrorists and separatists, who were using X to broadcast their activities without…

Zhob Market Explosion: Authorities Investigate Intent Behind Incident A sudden explosion occurred in a local market in Zhob, where explosives were placed in tin containers on the roof of a shop. The incident has heightened concerns regarding the safety and security of the area, as business owners and the public remain on alert. No Casualties Reported in Zhob Market Explosion The explosives, embedded with iron pieces, were deliberately set up to incite fear among the local population and disrupt business activities. Fortunately, no injuries or significant damage were reported, but the psychological impact on the traders and customers was significant.…

COAS General Asim Munir Karachi Visit: Economic Revival and Business Support COAS General Asim Munir’s Karachi visit brought much-needed hope to the business community. During the visit, he addressed key concerns, including the reduction of industrial electricity tariffs, road repairs in industrial areas, and attracting foreign investments to boost Pakistan’s economy. For more news on Pakistan’s infrastructure and industrial development, explore our Pakistan category. Economic Support During COAS General Asim Munir Karachi Visit (H2) In his meeting with Karachi’s business community, COAS General Asim Munir reassured industrialists that Pakistan’s economy is on the path to recovery. He emphasized the contributions…