Pakistan declared ‘best performing’ in tourism

ISLAMABAD: Pakis­tan was the ‘best performing destination’ in terms of tourism during the first nine months of 2023, according to the ‘World Tourism Barometer’ published by the World Tourism Organisation of the United Nations.

Pakistan made a remarkable 92 per cent recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2023, as the country experienced a 115 per cent surge in foreign tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, signaling a robust comeback post-Covid.

With the recovery reaching 115pc and projections of international receipts reaching $1.3 billion by the end of the year, Pakistan stands as a beacon in tourism resurgence, showcasing its potential on the global stage, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Aftab Rana said.

He attributed this success to the concerted efforts in tourism promotion. Pakistan actively participated in six major global events to project the tourism potential in the country.

A strategic online outreach, along with launching of the “Salam Pakistan” tourism brand in August 2023, contributed significantly to attracting a diverse range of visitors from across the globe.

Minister of State for Tourism Wasi Shah congratulated the PTDC team and industry partners for the achievement, expressing optimism for a stronger performance in 2024 despite existing challenges. Mr Rana spoke highly of the collaborative efforts of PTDC, provincial tourist departments and private sector operators, emphasising the role of global events in expanding international partnerships.

According to the WTO Tourism Barometer, other leading best performing destinations were Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Turkiye and Romania among countries from Europe, Asia-Pacific, Americas, Africa and the Middle East. Egypt and Serbia were at the bottom of the destination countries list.

Key findings of the barometer show international tourism recovered 87pc of pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

An estimated 975 million tourists travelled internationally between January and September 2023, an increase of 38pc over the same months of 2022, though 13pc fewer than in 2019.

International tourism receipts could reach $1.4 trillion in 2023, about 93pc of the $1.5tr earned by destinations in 2019.

These results reflect the strong recovery of demand in 2023. By regions, the Middle East continued to lead the recovery by regions in relative terms, with arrivals 20pc above pre-pandemic levels in the first nine months of 2023. Europe, the world’s largest destination region, reached 94pc of pre-pandemic levels, supported by robust intra-regional demand.

Africa recovered 92pc of pre-crisis visitors during this nine-month period and the Americas 88pc. In Asia and the Pacific, arrivals climbed to 62pc of pre-pandemic levels.

By sub-regions, North Africa (+5pc), Central America (+4pc) and Southern Mediterranean Europe (+1pc) continued to exceed pre-pandemic levels in January-September 2023.

International arrivals are expected to reach 1.3bn overall in 2023, up 33pc over 2022 and almost 90pc of pre-pandemic levels, in line with UNWTO scenarios published in January.

Against this backdrop, international tourism is well on track to fully recover pre-pandemic levels in 2024 despite economic challenges and uncertainty derived from certain geopolitical tensions and conflicts, WTO says.

Published in Dawn, December 30th, 2023

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Dollar outflow plunges

KARACHI: The repatriation of profits and dividends on foreign investments plunged to just $46.8 million in November against the first four months’ average of $120m, reflecting restriction on dollar outflows amid falling foreign exchange reserves.

The data issued by the State Bank of Pakistan on Wednesday showed the multinationals remitted $532.2m to their respective destinations abroad during the July-November period of 2023-24.

Bankers believe that the dollar outflow was higher during the talks with the IMF team for the release of the second tranche of $700m under the nine-month $3bn Stand-By Arrangement.

“The government is trying to manage the inflow and outflow of dollars to keep the current account deficit at the minimum level till the end of FY24,” said a banker.

However, others believe that the restrictions on profit outflow would be counterproductive since the government has a greater plan to attract up to $100bn under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

The data showed that only the petroleum sector was lucky to send the highest profit of $22.6m in November while the cumulative outflows were $78.2m during July-November FY24.

The second highest outflow was from the food sector during the first five months of the current fiscal year, but it witnessed the biggest hit as the sector could send out just $1.2m in November.

The transport sector remitted $68.4m profit in 5MFY24 including $1.2m in November showing the restriction on the outflows.

Repatriation of dollars from the financial business and power sectors was $58.1m and $52.9m in 5MFY24 including $3.8m and $2.6m in November, respectively.

Bankers said that they had been forced by the SBP to tightly control a balance between inflows and outflows, which drastically reduced the imports since banks didn’t open letters of credit. The exporters, however, were facilitated against their export proceeds to open LCs for imports.

Published in Dawn, December 28th, 2023

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Uncertainty ahead

THE country is flying into a new year on the back of a weakly mandated government, a promise to hold elections, and mounting uncertainty from within and without.

The year 2024 is when a new window of opportunity will open to reckon with all the ailments that brought us to this pass. But for that to happen, an elected government needs to enter, on time, and without the allegations of rigging that are already mounting with each passing day.

No economic recovery is possible without a credible government in place. This is easy enough to see and those who think that the present moment of stability represents an economic recovery need to understand their mistake.

The economy came near default in the year 2023. But it rapidly pulled back from the brink in July once the Stand-by Arrangement with the IMF began. The massive price adjustments undertaken under that programme saw the price of electricity skyrocket, nearly doubling for some category of consumers, followed by the price of gas.

The price of the dollar was stabilised, but only after shutting down important segments of the so-called ‘open market’, especially those markets serving cross-border trade requirements.

These steps allowed the economy to pull back from default. They put the economy into a holding pattern, designed only to arrest the deterioration in the fundamentals. They were not the remedy. They were what you do before you apply the remedy.

No economic recovery is possible without a credible government in place.

Take the power tariffs as an example. Successive governments have failed to arrest the growth of the circular debt in the power sector, which first began to appear on the books of power producers in 2006 and has since grown to near astronomical levels. Count up the number of governments that have come and gone since 2006, and ask why is it that each one failed to arrest the growth of the circular debt. What was required?

Power tariffs have been hiked massively since then, and along the way we have seen hikes of very large magnitude that were like a jolt. For a brief moment, the recoveries from these hikes slow down the rate of accumulation of the receivables in the power sector. But then they start all over again.

Unless the underlying problem is identified, and fixed, the rate hikes of July and August will be lost. For a brief moment they have succeeded in slowing down the rate of accumulation of the circular debt. But if real remedial steps are not taken, the onward march of these receivables will resume, and not too far down the road, another rate hike will need to be applied.

The same logic applies to gas, exchange rate and other administered prices. The price of gas is going to keep rising in Pakistan. There is nothing to be done about this. It is alright to find innovative ways to distribute the burden of the coming gas price hikes. But it is not possible to arrest them altogether.

The reason is simple. For most of its existence, Pakistan became accustomed to cheap domestic gas that was available in abundant supply. By the early 2010s, when domestic gas fields went into decline, they accounted for almost half of the country’s primary energy needs. But then the declines accelerated as fields went dry, and requirements kept rising especially in the domestic sector.

In 2015, Pakistan began importing gas for the first time, a step that was supposed to have been taken in 2006 or so. Today, imported gas accounts for one quarter of all gas consumed in the country, and gas now accounts for less than one third of the country’s primary energy requirements.

In the years to come, these percentages are going to keep changing. The country needs to shift away from gas towards cheaper, cleaner, and renewable fuels. The share of imported gas will continue rising as domestic fields continue to deplete, and with the rising share of imported LNG will come market-based pricing pressures. This is inevitable. Nothing can stop the process other than some miraculous new discovery, and that is not about to happen.

The same thing applies to the exchange rate. Pakistan’s currency has been eroding in value faster than that of any other regional peer. Since 2017, this trend has accelerated massively. The rupee was 85 to a dollar in 2008. At the end of 2017, it stood at 110. The bulk of the erosion came after that year.

What brought that about? Successive governments from that year on resorted to large-scale printing of rupees. First, they printed rupees to pay for government bills. Then, they printed rupees to juice growth in the economy. The runaway printing was on such a massive scale that it led to a blowout on the exchange rate.

So any incoming government in 2024 will have to reckon with enduring economic problems such as these. It will need to identify the root cause of the accumulation of the circular debt, then commit to the relevant reform path to address this problem.

It will need to build consensus around future gas prices and convince the business elites that subsidising gas is no longer an option. It will need to fix the fiscal architecture so printing of rupees is not the recourse to bridge fiscal gaps.

Without these steps, we will be in a doom loop of perpetual hikes in energy — power and gas — and an endless spiral of devaluation with no end in sight. And only a government with a complete mandate can even think about embarking on the far-reaching course of reform that will be required.

This is what awaits us in the year 2024. This is the situation in which the country will have to find for itself the leadership that can achieve this feat. It is not rocket science, but should not be underestimated either. Happy new year to all my readers!

The writer is a business and economy journalist.

khurram.husain@gmail.com

X: @khurramhusain

Published in Dawn, December 28th, 2023

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Bilawal announces ‘manifesto’ at Garhi Khuda Bakhsh

Asif Ali Zardari, Sanam Bhutto, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari pray at the Garhi Khuda Bakhsh mausoleum during a ceremony held to mark the 16th death anniversary of slain party leader, Benazir Bhutto.—APP

LARKANA: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced an ambitious 10-point election manifesto on Wednesday, emphasising the formation of a “pro-people” government after the Feb 8 elections.

Addressing a large public gathering in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh on the 16th death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, Mr Bhutto-Zardari laid out the party’s framework aiming to revolutionise various sectors across the country.

Central to this agenda is a commitment to double salaries and provide 300 free units of electricity per household, achieved by setting up green energy parks in every district, harnessing solar and wind energy sources.

The former foreign minister also resolved to overhaul the health sector, with plans to replicate successful models like NICVD, SIUT, and Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences nationwide.

Unveils plan for doubling salaries, expanding housing and health services if elected

Under another ambitious project, ‘Apni Zamin, Apna Ghar’, three million houses would be constructed across the country.

The provision of free education, expansion of the BISP programme, introduction of Hari and Benazir Mazdoor Cards, and the establishment of youth centres in all divisional headquarters for career counselling and skill development are also key components of the plan.

Mr Bhutto-Zardari called for public support to navigate the current crisis, recalling that his party had remained resilient in the face of past challenges, including the losses of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.

He expressed confidence in the party’s ability to address national issues and strengthen the federation.

Reflecting on PPP’s achievements in the past, Mr Bhutto-Zardari highlighted the devolution of powers through the 18th Amendment and the successful implementation of the NFC award. He also credited former president Asif Ali Zardari for introducing the BISP under the party’s slogan ‘Roti, Kapra aur Makan’ (Food, Clothing, and Shelter), and for playing a pivotal role in transitioning from dictatorship to democracy.

The difficult situation confronting the county once again demanded PPP’s government both in the Centre and provinces, he said and asked people to bring about an ‘Awami Raj’.

The PPP chairman conveyed optimism about actively participating in the electoral process and winning the polls. Without naming names, he criticised certain politicians for looking to “others’ shoulders” and promised to transform the country’s destiny by promoting a politics free of hate.

Recounting his journey since becoming party chairman at 19, Mr Bhutto-Zardari emphasised his commitment to combating terrorism and enhancing Pakistan’s global image. He also distanced himself from the previous PDM government’s economic and anti-terrorism strategies.

Hinting at political rivals Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif, Mr Bhutto-Zardari accused them of engaging in politics merely to evade legal challenges and jail time. He urged PPP workers to prepare for the upcoming polls, emphasising the importance of unity and addressing regional development needs and security concerns.

He expected Sindh would once again pose confidence in PPP but lamented that the party was kept away from politics in Lahore under a conspiracy.

He also sought the participants’ permission to move a motion in the next meeting of the PPP and PPP Parliamentarians’ central executive committee. “No one can block my way after your permission,” he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the promises made by his son.

He criticised the central administration in Islamabad for its detachment from the struggles of the common people, contrasting this with the PPP’s “people-centric” approach. “The problem is in the thinking of people sitting in Islamabad. The problem is not in Quetta, Karachi, Hyderabad, Peshawar or Lahore,” he said.

Mr Zardari reflected on the legacy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto and outlined ambitions to develop infrastructure and trade opportunities in Thar, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Published in Dawn, December 28th, 2023

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7 significant events in 2023 that you may have missed

As our politicians and media pundits bickered over whether or not elections would take place in 2023, the nation experienced yet another tumultous and frustrating year.

The departing year witnessed the seismic events of May 9, a date etched into the national consciousness due to the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. The ensuing developments monopolised the news cycle, dominating public discussions.

However, other significant events also occurred this year, which might have received more attention if the circumstances were any different.

Here, we spotlight seven developments that required deeper reflection and media attention to address broader issues in the country beyond the political circus.

Lights out

In a nation grappling with soaring utility bills and persistent power outages, a countrywide blackout in January left citizens in the dark, amplifying existing challenges in the power sector. As is now par for the course, the power was not fully restored even on the following day.

The root cause of this extensive outage lay in an unexpected twist—generators produced an excess of power beyond the actual demand. The power minister at the time, Khurram Dastgir, had suggested that a cyberattack could be behind the breakdown.

Mainstream TV predominantly centred on the affected areas in darkness and the restoration efforts, neglecting any substantial discussion on the effectiveness of the power infrastructure and the potential security implications associated with it.

However, discussions on a broader scale were overshadowed by the typical blame game, neglecting crucial questions about fortifying Pakistan’s power infrastructure.

In a nation endowed with nuclear capabilities, such an extensive power outage for such a long time (twice in just four months) should be prompting an urgent need for introspection. The question is: will our power system ever be robust enough to endure unforeseen challenges, or will it forever remain susceptible to a sudden, widespread blackout?

Pakistan’s ‘ingenious’ power conservation solution

As the new year began, the PDM-led government rolled out a familiar initiative: the early closure of markets for energy conservation, a well-tested measure aimed at addressing the persistent challenges in the country’s power sector.

Predictably, the proposal encountered fierce resistance from the business community, who expressed concerns about potential adverse impact on their operations, and consequently, the broader government revenue.

Although the order wasn’t entirely revoked, it was rendered ineffective due to non-implementation by relevant stakeholders.

Given the recurrence of similar initiatives in recent years facing comparable opposition and yielding inconclusive outcomes, a comprehensive debate was warranted — a debate that should have unfolded across mainstream media and public discourse.

Was the government’s move genuinely beneficial or merely a symbolic gesture? Repeatedly resorting to such measures without ensuring rigorous compliance risks making decision-makers the subject of mockery.

Crucially, since this matter directly ties to the country’s power sector and its improvement, a thorough and extensive debate was imperative. However, such a discourse appeared conspicuously absent in mainstream media, a void that hampered the public’s understanding of the complexities and nuances surrounding the crucial issue.

Of govt servants and free electricity

A blaze of controversy engulfed the nation as startling revelations came to light: government employees and a select few dignitaries were enjoying the privilege of receiving complimentary electricity units.

Dawn reported that the total cost of free electricity units being used by state-owned entities in the country’s power sector alone ranged between Rs22 billion and Rs25bn per annum, whereas the allowances being given to other government departments’ employees from grade 1 to 22 were also worth billions.

The emergence of such a provision during a time of financial crisis, rising inflation, and increasing poverty understandably sparked anger among the country’s residents, who were already grappling with these challenges.

The issue gained traction on social media, with people expressing their frustration and calling for an end to the provision of free units to ensure equal treatment for all citizens. However, like many other pressing matters, this issue did not result in any tangible action or extensive media discourse.

Nevertheless, it underscored a critical point that merited contemplation and calls for a comprehensive policy to eliminate the growing disparity between the privileged and the marginalised.

Lal Masjid agitation 2.0

Seminary students beat up a policewoman during their protest on Jinnah Avenue in Islamabad on June 22, 2023. — Photo by Mohammad Asim/file

Amid persistent security challenges and sporadic attacks targeting both security forces and various regions of the nation, an incident unfolded in June that warranted a closer look. A group of baton-wielding students from Islamabad’s Jamia Hafsa took to the streets of the federal capital, blocking major thoroughfares, including Jinnah Avenue against the attempted arrest of Lal Masjid’s Maulana Abdul Aziz.

The incident, which brought back painful memories of the 2007 violence, saw bamboo-cane-wielding protesters attacking women constables and making threats amid claims from Aziz’s wife that her husband had fired at counter-terrorism department policemen who attempted to apprehend him.

A video from the protest made the rounds on social media, featuring a veiled protester fearlessly confronting a security official and warning: “We have endured the hardships of the Musharraf era. You seem to have forgotten the sacrifices, and that’s why you are obsessed with power. Your slumber will be disturbed if anyone turns up again.”

While this video may not have garnered extensive media attention, its circulation on social platforms sparked contemplation among users regarding the actual state of security in the country.

Certain issues, deemed too sensitive or shrouded in the veil of “national security” often receive limited coverage in mainstream media. However, it is precisely these issues that demand solutions without delay.

Wikipedia ban: Pakistan’s temporary disconnect from the digital knowledge hub

In a disconcerting move, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority slapped a ban on Wikipedia in February that lasted for three days, depriving thousands of the crucial digital encyclopedia. While the pretext was blasphemous content, the then-government’s inability to swiftly address this issue exposed the hurdles in effectively coordinating with online platforms.

The recurring disruptions and sporadic bans on YouTube over the past decade have sparked condemnation, yet no robust policies have been enacted to prevent such incidents in the future. The focus on coercive measures leading to the Wikipedia ban overshadowed the critical issue — the government’s lack of foresight and long-term planning in advancing the country’s position in the realm of information technology.

As public discourse honed in on immediate concerns, the absence of constructive debates in the media highlighted a glaring gap in addressing the government’s inadequacies and the need for strategic planning to prevent citizens from becoming the ultimate victims.

In Pakistan, the suppression of free speech is an enduring challenge, but as the global landscape evolves into the digital era, mere lip service won’t cut it. Concrete actions are imperative for Pakistan to thrive on the international stage.

Cross-border marriages

In a year dominated by news of a more serious nature, a heartening happening unfolded in the form of a cross-border marriage. Anju, a 35-year-old mother of two from Rajasthan, India, ventured to Pakistan in July to marry her friend Nasrullah from Upper Dir.

Their union, sealed through a court marriage, garnered attention from media on both sides, yet the coverage remained largely confined to the isolated happening, overlooking the potential for fostering cross-border harmony and connection.

A similar occurrence unfolded around the same month when a Pakistani woman named Seema Haider, a mother of four, crossed into India, albeit illegally, to marry Sachin, a man from Delhi whom she had surprisingly met on the videogame PUBG.

The stories of Anju-Nasrullah and Seema-Sachin serve as poignant illustrations of the brighter side of people-to-people contact. Instead of framing these occurrences as isolated incidents, the media ought to have played a more proactive role in showcasing the broader picture of cross-border peace and understanding that can flourish from such connections.

Such instances should serve as reminders that stories of shared love and connection have the power to transcend borders, promoting a more nuanced and positive portrayal of cross-border relations.

‘Conflict of interest’ in Pakistan cricket

Cricket holds an unparalleled status as the most followed sport in Pakistan, boasting a vast fanbase. Serving as a unifying force for the nation, cricket resonates deeply whenever Pakistan competes on the global stage in premier contests.

During the ODI World Cup, Pakistan witnessed the resignation of its chief selector, Inzamamul Haq, amid allegations of conflict of interest linked to his association with a player agency.

While the media extensively covered the resignation, the focus remained predominantly on the event itself rather than emphasising the imperative for an inquiry to probe the claims and address systemic issues.

However, the matter seemed to stagnate, possibly influenced by the national hero status attributed to the former player facing accusations.

Such a significant matter required sustained follow-up until reaching a logical conclusion. However, akin to other issues, it was sensationally reported and eventually faded from public attention.

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Consumers get no relief despite strong rupee, low costs

KARACHI: Falling world commodity prices, low transportation costs and stability in the exchange rate have failed to bring any respite for the consumers in the last five months as retail prices either crawled up or held unchanged due to an ineffective price checking mechanism.

A drop of over 16 per cent in food imports during 5MFY24 to $3.35 billion from $4bn in the same period last year might have helped in curtailing the current account deficit (CAD). However, wheat, palm oil and pulses continued to hold a bulk share in the overall food imports.

Besides paying high prices for edible items, the extra burden of high utility bills has made the lives of many low- and middle-income families more miserable, causing them either to adjust the usage of electrical appliances or to curtail food purchases.

One cannot rule out the role of manufacturers for not passing on the full impact of lower world commodity prices, transportation expenses and stability in the exchange rate, while retailers also remained reluctant to bring down the prices.

A crackdown on sugar hoarding a few months back had brought sugar rates to Rs130 per kg from over Rs200 but prices surged to Rs168 per kg a few days back after the crackdown had been suspended.

Crackdown suspension

A partial crackdown was also witnessed on wheat hoarders a few months back but the powerful lobby of millers managed the situation. After putting extra pressure, they got permission to import wheat. As a result, wheat imports stood at 1.054 million tonnes ($308m) during 5MFY24 as compared to 1.099m tonnes ($460m) in the same period last year, posting a drop in the average per tonne (APT) price to $292 from $418.

The Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) also issued an international tender in the last week of November to import 110,000 tonnes of grain for January/February shipment.

As per data of the Sensitive Price Index (SPI), a 20kg wheat flour bag was available at Rs2,550-3,000 during the first week of July 2023 as compared to the current rate of Rs2,700-2,960, depicting no major downward price trend.

The rupee made a recovery against the dollar from the September 5 peak of Rs307.10 to Rs276 by Oct 16.

Currently, one dollar in the interbank is trading at Rs282.

The transportation cost has also fallen due to a decline in high-speed diesel (HSD) rates to Rs276.21 per litre from a peak of Rs329.18 on Sept 16.

Millers believed that imports were activated to bridge a demand and supply gap given the demand of 31-32m tonnes of grain annually as against a conflicting wheat harvest claim of 27-28 million tonnes by the government as against 26m tonnes to 26.5m tonnes by the millers. The country had two million tonnes of grain of last year’s carryover stocks.

Millers had reduced the price of flour no 2.5 and fine flour by Rs25 per kg to Rs120 and Rs135 per kg after rising wheat imports but in the second week of December, they later raised prices to Rs127 and Rs140 for both the flour varieties, citing delay in arrival of Russia wheat.

Costly pulses

Import of pulses soared to 641,656 tonnes ($403m) during 5MFY24 from 595,389 tonnes ($454m) in the same period last year. Despite a drop in APT to $629 from $762, consumers are still paying Rs320-400 per kg for Masoor, Rs250-350 for Moong and Rs360-600 for Mash as compared to Rs250-320, Rs220-320, Rs300-510 and Rs210-300 prevailing during the first week of July 2023. As per SPI data, the price of gram pulse held unchanged at Rs210-330 per kg.

The official data shows the price of less than 250 gram branded tea packs at Rs542-677 as compared to Rs558.82 during the first week of July 2023 despite a drop in APT to $2,384 from $2,463 based on the import of 116,407 tonnes ($277m) in July-November FY24 from 100,680 tonnes ($248m) in the same last year.

Cooking oil

The country imported 1.248m tonnes of palm oil ($1.175bn) during July-November FY24 versus 1.23mn tonnes $1.724bn in the same period last fiscal, reflecting a drop in APT price to $941 from $1,398 in the above period.

The SPI data mentioned a drop in the prices of cooking oil Dalda or other similar products, vegetable ghee 2.5kg and one kg pouch of branded ghee of different brands to Rs2,565-2,960, Rs1,250-1,400 and Rs480-519 from Rs2,950-3,290, Rs1,375-1,550 and Rs525-595 during July 2023.

Import of spices fell to 51,562 tonnes ($61mn) in 5MFY24 from 62,975 tonnes ($61mn) in the same period last fiscal. The APT soared to $1,186 from $967 in the above period. As per SPI data, a 200-gram pack of branded chilly powder now costs Rs 400 as compared to Rs215.

Published in Dawn, December 26th, 2023

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PTI activist rearrested in cow theft case in Chakwal

CHAKWAL: A PTI activist, who was detained under Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) on Dec 21, was rearrested shortly after getting released from Jhelum prison on Dec 22 — this time on cow theft charge, sources told Dawn on Sunday.

Mohammad Naseeruddin Babar alias Babar Gujjar was among the four PTI activists who were detained on Dec 21 under the MPO on the order of deputy commissioner (DC) Chakwal.

Advocate Syed Najamul Hassan, the lawyer of PTI’s president Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Malik Akhtar Shahbaz, PTI’s candidate for PP-22; PTI Choa Saidan Shah tehsil general secretary Malik Ehsan Mehmood and Babar Gujjar, an office-bearer of PTI’s Youth Wing in Choa Saidan Shah, were detained under MPO on Dec 21 on the order of DC Chakwal. However, after the arrest of Advocate Syed Najamul Hassan, the district administration faced intense pressure from the District Bar Association as well as the Punjab Bar Council and had to release the four detainees.

The deputy commissioner, therefore, issued the release order early Dec 22 morning. In her order, she said after receiving a letter from the district police officer (DPO) in which the police officer stated that law and order situation had significantly improved so further detention of these four persons was no longer required.

“As these four persons were released from Jhelum prison, Malik Akhtar Shahbaz was rearrested by Kallar Kahar police in May 9 incident while Babar Gujjar was sent behind bars in a cow theft case,” PTI’s district general secretary Advocate Chaudhry Tallat Mehmood told Dawn.

According to the FIR registered on Sept 18, Mohammad Atif, a resident of Minhala village in Choa Saidan Shah tehsil, told the police that his cow, which was valued at Rs60,000, did not return home in the evening after day-long grazing in a jungle and expressed the apprehension that it might have been stolen

Police neither failed to trace his cow nor the thief for three months. However, on the night of Dec 21, police picked up Babar Gujjar in that case as soon as he came out of the prison.

When contacted, the complainant, Mohammad Atif, told Dawn that Babar Gujjar could not have taken his cow as his village Chhumbi was far away from that of Gujjar.

Police have taken the physical remand of Babar Gujjar for two days.

When contacted, Investigating Officer Rehmatullah confirmed to Dawn that Babar Gujjar had been arrested in a cow theft case. “He would be discharged from the case if he is proved innocent,” the officer added.

Advocate Tallat Mehmood condemned police action and termed it a mockery of law and authority.

Published in Dawn, December 25th, 2023

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Funds okayed to lay dedicated line to supply water in DHA, Clifton

KARACHI: Residents of Clifton and Defence Housing Authority, who have been facing an acute water shortage for years, may breathe a sigh of relief as caretaker Chief Minister retired Justice Maqbool Baqar on Friday approved Rs2.1 billion for laying a 24-inch diameter dedicated pipeline from Dumlottee to the salubrious parts of the city.

While presiding over a meeting to review water shortage and sanitation issues in the city, he directed the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) to immediately complete the formalities and start work on the project.

The meeting was held at CM House and attended among others by Mayor Murtaza Wahab, finance secretary Kazim Jatoi, local government secretary Manzoor Shaikh, commissioner Saleem Rajput, transport secretary Asad Zaim, Municipal Commissioner Afzal Zaidi and KWSC chief executive officer Syed Salahuddin.

The chief minister said that the DHA was in dire need of water and the residents’ requirement must be met.

Talking to Dawn, the water utility chief said that the utility was providing five to six million gallons of water (MGD) daily to the DHA through a pipeline from Chakra Goth pumping station and around 3MGD was being supplied through water tankers, while the vicinity’s requirement was up to 17MGD.

KWSC chief says work on new line from Dumlottee will be completed in 12 to 14 months

He said as per a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Cantonment Board Clifton (CBC) and water utility, the DHA supply quota was nine MGD. “The agreement will be revised after laying of the pipeline from Dumlottee,” he said and added that the project would cost around Rs3 billion and complete in 12 to 14 months.

It may be recalled that early last month, the Sindh High Court was informed that the KWSC had suggested to the Cantonment Board Clifton (CBC) to lay a dedicated pipeline from Dumlottee in order to permanently address the issue of water shortage in the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) and Clifton. However, the CBC was not in favour of the proposal due to financial constraints, the KWSC had stated in a compliance report filed before the court.

Other water schemes in city

The CM was told that Karachi had an approved water quota of 1,200 cusecs (650 MGD) from the Indus River, conveyed through the KWSC system. He was informed that the existing bulk water supply system includes canals, conduits, pumping stations, and filter plants for the transportation of water to Karachi.

The mayor said that the project aimed at utilising the available 65MGD capacity from Keenjhar Gujjo Canal, adding that the project had an exclusive right of way (RoW), which was available and has no encumbrance.

The CM directed the planning and development department to approve the scheme within 10 days and directed the finance department to release Rs4.5 billion so that work on the project could be started.

The meeting participants were informed that SITE Industrial Area was one of the largest areas having water requirement of 50MGD against which 1.63MGD was being supplied to them.

They meet their water requirement from their internal distribution system which is linked with the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation network through seven bulk connections namely Walika hospital, SITE Post Office, Salika industries, Tofique Paints, Paracha roundabout, Brook Bond and Gulbai.

The CM directed the water board to improve its system by replacing its old lines and rehabilitate Nazimabad pumping station so that at least 6 MGD water could be supplied to SITE.

He approved Rs2.1 billion for the water supply to SITE Ltd.

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2023

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Pakistan-born Aussie cricketer Khawaja insists armband was not political, after ICC reprimand

Australia’s Usman Khawaja said on Friday that a black armband he wore in the first Test against Pakistan was for a “personal bereavement” and not politically motivated, after the star batter was reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The Pakistan-born opened donned the armband during the team’s 360-run victory in Perth, a move seen at the time as support for people in Gaza, where thousands have been killed in Israeli bombardment.

He had wanted to wear shoes emblazoned with the hand-written slogans “Freedom is a human right” and “All lives are equal” during the match, saying he had been hit hard by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

But Khawaja, who is Muslim, was told that it flouted ICC rules on messages that relate to politics, religion or race. He covered the messages with tape and wore the armband.

Khawaja told reporters he would take up the reprimand with the ICC and that he only wanted consistency in the application of its rules.

“I told them it was for a personal bereavement. I never ever stated it was for anything else. The shoes were a different matter, I’m happy to say that,” the 37-year-old said at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“But the armband (decision) made no sense to me.

“I respect … the ICC and the rules and regulations they have.

“I just asked - and will be asking them and contesting that they make it fair and equitable for everyone and they have consistency in how they officiate. That’s all I ask for.”

An ICC spokesman on Thursday said Khawaja had displayed a “personal message” against Pakistan without seeking prior approval from Cricket Australia (CA) and the ICC as required.

Respective way

Khawaja said players had displayed personal messages during past matches without ICC approval and not been sanctioned.

“Guys have put stickers on their bats, names on their shoes and all sorts of things in the past without ICC approval and never been reprimanded,” said Khawaja, adding he would not wear the armband again.

“From my point of view, that consistency hasn’t been done yet.”

Khawaja has been vocal on social media with calls for an end to the bloodshed in the Gaza Strip, where nearly 20,000 Gazans have died since the start of the conflict with Israel, according to the Palestinian health ministry.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to fight on until the eradication of Hamas, the group that sent fighters over the border into southern Israel on October 7, taking some 240 hostages and killing 1,200 people.

Cricket Australia did not endorse Khawaja’s boots or his armband but CEO Nick Hockley said it was working with him and the ICC to see whether there was a “really respectful way” the batsman could share his message on the field.

“That is the subject now of ICC consideration,” Hockley told a press conference alongside Khawaja.

The second test against Pakistan starts at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

The ICC has been selective about allowing players to wear political messages during matches.

West Indies players were permitted to wear ‘Black Lives Matter’ logos on their shirts during a test series against England in 2020.

England’s Moeen Ali, however, was banned from wearing wristbands with messages ‘Save Gaza’ and ‘Free Palestine’ during a home test against India in 2014.

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Brewing brilliance: Costa Coffee stirs up a storm in Gulberg, Lahore

Gerry’s Group, the distinguished master franchisee of Costa Coffee in Pakistan, is set to elevate the coffee experience in Lahore with the grand opening of its second Costa Coffee store in the bustling Gulberg neighbourhood after its success in Raya, Fairways Commercial.

Known for its impactful presence in Pakistan’s business landscape, Gerry’s Group, in partnership with Costa Coffee, continues to resonate with the diverse and dynamic community of Lahore. The new Costa Coffee store in Gulberg marks a strategic expansion, complementing its existing presence in Raya, Fairways Commercial in Lahore.

The inauguration and soft launch ceremony were graced by distinguished personalities, highlighting the significance of this milestone for Costa Coffee and its patrons. Mr. Akram Wali Muhammad, Group Managing Director of Gerry’s Group, Governor Punjab, Mr. Muhammad Baligh Ur Rehman, and U.S. Consul General Lahore, Ms. Kristin K. Hawkins, jointly unveiled the new store, signifying the brand’s commitment to fostering cultural exchanges and enhancing social connections through the love of coffee, and great food.

Mr. Muhammad, Group Managing Director of Gerry’s Group expressed enthusiasm about extending Costa Coffee’s footprint in Lahore. “We are delighted to bring the rich and flavorful Costa Coffee experience to Gulberg, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Lahore’s coffee culture. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to offering unparalleled quality and service to our customers.”

The soft launch event is anticipated to set the stage for Costa Coffee’s journey in Gulberg, promising a blend of exceptional coffee, warm ambiance, and unmatched hospitality. The strategic location in Gulberg positions Costa Coffee as a hub for coffee enthusiasts, offering a delightful escape and a space for community engagement.

As Costa Coffee Pakistan continues to grow, the brand remains dedicated to crafting memorable moments for coffee lovers nationwide. With a diverse menu offering an array of coffee blends, delectable treats, and refreshing beverages, the venture into Gulberg reaffirms Costa Coffee’s dedication to continuing to deliver a premium coffee experience at Lahore’s core.

Residents and visitors can experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation at the store located at PNO 95/4, Block D1, Gulberg 3, and will be open to the public on Thursday, December 21st, 2023.

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This content is a paid advertisement by Costa Coffee and is not associated with or necessarily reflective of the views of Dawn.com or its editorial staff.

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Imran Khan to contest elections from three constituencies: PTI lawyers

The PTI on Wednesday said former prime minister Imran Khan, who is incarcerated at Adiala Jail, would contest the upcoming general elections from three constituencies.

On August 5, a trial court in Islamabad had convicted Imran in a case filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that involved concealing details of state gifts and jailed him for three years.

The verdict meant he was disqualified from contesting general elections for five years. However, the same month the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had suspended Imran’s three-year sentence but he still remains in jail in other cases.

Earlier this month, the Islamabad High Court had reserved its verdict on Imran’s petition seeking the suspension of his conviction in the Toshakhana gifts case.

In a media talk outside Adiala Jail today, Barrister Ali Zafar said: “Imran Khan sahib wants to inform that he will be contesting elections from at least three constituencies of Pakistan.”

He said the IHC was set to release its verdict on Imran’s petition challenging conviction in the Toshakhana case. “We hope that the judgment will soon be announced because the [election] schedule has been released,” the lawyer said, hoping that the verdict would be in the PTI’s favour.

Barrister Zafar said all the PTI workers had been given directions to file their nomination papers as the country had entered into the election mode.

“As long as the PTI candidates are concerned, our workers in jail, who have rendered sacrifices for the party in this difficult time, would be 100 per cent allotted tickets on a priority basis,” he said.

“The rest of the candidates have also been finalised and their names will be announced soon,” Barrister Zafar stated.

He also said that stopping party workers from filing nomination papers was an “undemocratic exercise” and would jeopardise free and fair elections. “We request the ECP to take action on this,” the lawyer added.

Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Gohar Khan said the party wanted elections to be held on February 8 at any cost. He highlighted that his party had time and again stressed the need for a level playing field for all political parties.

“Today, we were very upset at what Shah [Mehmood Qureshi] sahib told us,” he noted, claiming that the PTI vice chairman’s nomination papers had been “snatched” from Qureshi’s secretary.

“Snatching nomination papers from people on the street would make these elections a shame,” he said.

Barrister Gohar added that Imran would be provided with his nomination papers tomorrow, vowing that “Khan sahib will contest these polls, God willing”.

“Khan sahib has asked all the party workers to file their nomination papers,” the PTI chairman said, adding that the decision to allot party tickets would still be taken by Imran. He further revealed that the PTI founding member would contest elections from Lahore, Mianwali and Islamabad.

Barrister Gohar said he too would participate in the upcoming polls from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Buner.

Meanwhile, PTI leader Latif Khosa also complained about issues pertaining to the submission of nomination papers and said the party was filing writ petitions in all high courts in this regard.

He said the party would aim to obtain executive orders from the courts so that no candidate would encounter any obstacles in submitting their nomination papers.

Khosa hit out at the PTI’s opponents, saying that they were still afraid of entering the electoral battlefield against the party.

“The time for banning any party has passed and finished. Banning does not come under the executive’s domain,” he said. Khosa added that the PTI chief himself had ordered him to contest the elections despite the lawyer’s reluctance to do so.

He added he would submit his own nomination papers from Lahore in a few days.

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Decolonising the museum

IT is sad that a visit to many of the most famous museums in the world feels like a visit to the treasure trove of a global looter. When one visits the British Museum, for instance, giant stone sculptures stolen from Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, are there to greet all visitors. The Ishtar Gate, which once guarded the entrance to the ancient city of Babylon, is not in Iraq but in Berlin at the Pergamon Museum. On more than one occasion, the government of Iraq has officially asked for it to be returned, but its demand has fallen on deaf ears. In the subcontinent, the story of the Kohinoor diamond is well known even though it is just one of the many objects and artifacts that were looted by the British and taken back to Britain before they left India.

In the past few years, however, the movement to have all these stolen goods returned to the countries from where they were looted has gained ground. Many scholars in the West have turned their attention to art theft and the issue of ‘provenance’ or how a particular institution managed to procure a piece for its collection has begun to be discussed. Some have pointed out how museums have circumvented the issue of illegal procurement by encouraging a wealthy donor to acquire an object and then displaying it with the label ‘from the collection of XYZ’ so that the museum itself does not have to disclose how the object was obtained. This applies to objects that were stolen on the art black market or during the colonial era.

Recently, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art announced it would be returning more than a dozen art objects reported to have been supplied by an art dealer and collector who was running a worldwide antiquities trafficking ring. Most of the sculptures will be returned to Cambodia and a few to Thailand. The ancient statues were part of the collection of British art dealer and collector Douglas Latchford. Many appear to have been taken out of Cambodia during the rule of the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. Art objects often become the subject of looting or illegal trade during periods of political tumult when competing parties or the fog of war obscure what is happening in cultural institutions.

Latchford was finally indicted for the theft of these and many other objects in 2019. However, he conveniently died the next year and so was never convicted and brought to justice. His heirs in the Latchford family admitted that the collection had hundreds of pieces of ancient Khmer objects and pieces of jewellery, which were reported to have been returned to Cambodia. It is very likely all these were procured by Latchford, whose dealings spanned the course of several decades. Other than ancient jewellery, there were statues of the Buddha, including one rare one referred to as the Head of the Buddha.

The movement to have stolen relics returned to the countries of their origin is gaining ground.

The subject of art theft and the return of looted objects has started to reach the highest levels. A meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak was cancelled because the latter learned that Mitsotakis was going to raise the issue of the stolen Elgin Marbles that were taken from the site of the Parthenon by the British and whose return the Greeks have been demanding for several decades. In an interview with the BBC, the Greek prime minister said, “This is not a question of returning artefacts … this is not an ownership question, this is a reunification argument”, going on to provocatively indicate that the Parthenon without the marbles was like the Mona Lisa torn in half.

As for the British Museum itself, it set up a website asking for the public’s help in addressing the question of hundreds of objects, mainly “gems and jewellery” dating from the 15th century BC, that had gone missing from its collection. Unsurprisingly, it focused largely on theft from its own stock rather than colonialist looting. It has now concluded an investigation.

The museum has also raised issues related to procurement but, tellingly, those relating to a narrow window of time from the 1930s to the end of World War II. These procurement problems are issues around art theft by the Nazis, who took over many European capitals and thus the objects in them. The British were the ‘good’ guys in that conflict and so it is convenient for the museum to position itself as a do-gooder trying to repatriate items back to European capitals following the consequences of Nazi looting.

Of course, one would like to ask about Britain’s long presence in the subcontinent and the thousands of objects that were looted either from excavations or directly from various royal kingdoms. British officers had access to some or other bit of subcontinental history and took it back with them where it hangs in the drawing rooms of their great grandchildren as the proud spoils of the time when they ruled India.

For those who may worry that returned objects may be stolen again if they are returned to countries from where they came there is little to be concerned about. This sort of theft is already underway at the British Museum itself, as indicated by the launch of its website enlisting the public’s support for the recovery of precious items. Some months ago, the curator for Greek and Roman art at the museum was fired over allegations of theft.

The question of the past has left an imprint on the present. While the return of certain objects may only be symbolic, it matters because it represents at least a tacit admission of the fact that colonialism was by and large a looting enterprise which sought to steal the wealth and treasure of one part of the world for the enrichment and enjoyment of another. All the objects that are in question, from the Kohinoor diamond to the Benin Bronzes to the Ishtar Gate, represent this truth.

The writer is an attorney teaching constitutional law and political philosophy.

rafia.zakaria@gmail.com

Published in Dawn, December 20th, 2023

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Discovery of pre-Buddhist monument sheds new light on Swat’s history

SWAT: International and national archaeologists have unearthed a pre-Buddhist sacred monument dating back to 4th century BC, the century in which Alexander invaded Swat, during the recent excavations in Bazira Barikot area of the district.

The excavations are conducted by the Italian Archeological Mission in Pakistan (ISMEO and Ca’ Foscari University of Venice) in joint cooperation with Dr. Abdul Samad and the staff of DOAM KP including students from local universities and the Jahanzeb College.

Dr Luca Maria Olivieri, the director of the mission and leader of the excavation team, said that although the exact nature of the structure remained elusive, it was pretty evident that it was initially built around a natural sacred space, potentially associated with elements such as a spring, a Naga shrine, or a sacred tree.

“During the first wave of Buddhism’s spread in Gandhara, around the 3rd century BC, in the era of Ashoka, the monument underwent significant transformations,” he said. He said that the celebrated inscriptions by Ashoka on the boulders of Mansehra and Shahbaz-Garhi and Dharmarajika Stupa of Butkara, spoke volumes about widespread promotion of Buddhism in Ashoka’s time. It was the period when the pre-Buddhist shrine of Bazira was converted into a Buddhist temple, he added.

Archaeologist says it also offers a rare glimpse into Gandhara’s religious and architectural evolution

He said that archaeological evidence also pointed to the construction of an Indian-style stupa just outside the temple entrance during that period.

“The interior of the temple, particularly the central cell, underwent modifications during this phase. Though the specific purpose of the cell remains ambiguous, it was an important place of worship. Terracotta figurines and remnants of incense burners discovered on-site emphasise its importance as a cultic space,” said Dr Luca.

He said that further alterations were introduced by the Indo-Greeks, who constructed an enclosure around the temple, a walk-able corridor. Notably, the Odiraja rulers, in the mid-1st century BC, added a vault to the enclosure. “The circular cell within this complex structure housed a stupa, a focal point of reverence that endured until the monument’s later stages,” he said.

Dr Luca said that the corridor surrounding the circular cell was filled in a final chapter of modifications during the late Odiraja or early Kushan period (around 70-90 AD). “A podium was erected, crowned by a new raised circular cell adorned with a distinctive round vegetal roof, constructed around the same stupa built at the Odiraja’s times. A staircase featuring inscribed steps made ‘in honour of the father and mother, in honour of all Buddhas’ provided access to the podium,” he said.

The archaeologist said that radiocarbon dating substantiated the chronological timeline of those transformations. The monument, now identified as a Buddhist sacred space, remained in use with various adaptations until the 4th century AD.

“This remarkable journey through time, meticulously unveiled by modern archaeological techniques, offers a rare glimpse into Gandhara’s religious and architectural evolution, enriching our understanding of its cultural tapestry,” said Dr Luca.

Italian archaeologists have been working in Bazira Barikot since 1987. They have unravelled various phases of the history and civilisations. Presently, they focus on the terraces of Bazira’s acropolis, delving into the Ghaznavid phases, where a trove of evidence spanning from the Bronze Age to the Indo-Greeks promises to rewrite Swat’s historical narrative.

“Venturing into the lower city, we are set to unravel the intricacies of urban planning. The exploration of the network of roads connecting the city walls to the centre of the ancient city promises to provide insights into the layout that once echoed the hustle and bustle of ancient life,” said Dr Luca.

Crucially, the team has embarked on a journey through the geological epochs, studying large late Pleistocene and Holocene deposits at the Barikot site.

“The meticulous examination has also uncovered climatic nuances, ranging from optimum phases, such as the zenith between 400 BC and 200 AD, coinciding with the city’s peak and the flourishing of Gandhara art, to arid phases and climatic crises,” he said.

Dr Luca said that a pivotal revelation emerging from the sediment studies suggested a radical shift in understanding local geography.

“The fabled lakes, intricately woven into Buddhist legends and traditions dating from the Vedic period to Pashtun folklore, are now believed to have been situated much further downstream, possibly between Mingora and Barikot,” he said.

Anticipated next June, the archaeologists said that the forthcoming excavation reports for 2022-2023 were poised to deepen their understanding of Swat’s rich history, offering a glimpse into the fascinating tapestry of cultures that shaped the ancient landscape. As the sands of time continue to reveal their secrets, Barikot stands as a beacon of exploration, rewriting the annals of Swat’s past with each careful excavation.

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2023

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Happy with caretakers, but big business wants them to go home

It is noteworthy that the entire business community in Pakistan currently refrains from endorsing the idea of extending the caretakers’ tenure despite its recognition of the improved economic governance under Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar.

The business community unanimously advocates for timely elections and a peaceful transfer of power to the next democratically elected government, emphasising the importance of stability and progress.

The current government’s measures to curb smuggling, control power theft and line losses, and enhance confidence levels among investors and consumers have received commendation from various private-sector forums.

The relative stability in the currency market, an upswing in the capital market and sustained financial inflows from donors and a few overseas investors have interrupted the cycle of negative economic news. Although concerns persist regarding high taxes, utility rates and credit issues, the economic horizon appears less bleak than before.

Businesses have traditionally supported unelected rulers for apparent stability and high growth

Two decades ago, many business leaders held a different stance. Some openly opposed democracy while others passionately detested the political class for their perceived corruption and incompetence. As a segment, they actively supported military dictators, not necessarily for lack of option but because they considered the dictators more suited to Pakistan’s milieu.

They would make the argument of relative stability and high growth under military rule and punctuate it with the timeline of GDP growth data. It was argued that historically General Ayub, General Zia and General Musharraf had been more receptive to their ideas and responded better to their demands.

It’s challenging to pinpoint what prompted the change of heart — a collective shift in the private sector’s preference for the lawfully elected government. Are business leaders sensing a tectonic change in the power equation in Pakistan? For decades, the martial forces held unchallenged control in the country. Everyone who was anyone understood that and maintained a carefully calculated stance of being apolitical, keeping a safe distance from politicians and their antics to secure a favourable position among those who mattered the most.

The individual who was named for making the suggestion was taken by surprise when contacted by phone. Completely oblivious to the controversy, he casually brushed off the rumour as baseless. He said it was nothing more than a product of someone’s imagination and was aimed at further dividing an already fractured political landscape.

Several past presidents of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) distanced themselves from a current that posed a threat to the already challenging journey of Pakistan.

Responding briefly from Lahore, former FPCCI president Mian Nasser Hayat Magoon said: “Nothing is acceptable at the cost of democracy.” Chaudhry Muhammad Saeed, another former president of the FPCCI, expressing his views from Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, firmly advocated for timely elections. “The country cannot afford any more disruptions in the political process,” he said. He criticised deceptive elements for generating unfounded controversies, asserting that such elements peddle fear for personal gains, ultimately harming the interests of the country and its people.

Industrialist Arif Habib categorically refuted any discussion regarding the extension of the current government’s tenure in the well-attended meeting with the caretaker prime minister.

Majyd Aziz, an influential industrialist from Karachi, echoed the sentiments, affirming his support for holding elections as scheduled.

Badruddin Kaker, a prominent businessman from Quetta, cautioned against the spread of rumours and dismissed the notion of delaying elections as perilous. In a recorded message, he emphasised the need for a robust government with a mandate to address the intricacies of the economy in accordance with the aspirations of the people.

Pakistan Business Council CEO Ehsan Malik conveyed his eagerness for comprehensive reforms aimed at rectifying deep-seated flaws within the economy.

“Fundamental reforms require both time and political will, qualities more readily available to a government with a five-year mandate. The caretaker government has done a good job in setting us on the right course,” he said.

Conversely, the secretary general of the Overseas Chamber of Commerce and Industry refrained from offering any comment on the issue.

Musadaq Zulqarnain, a highly regarded and insightful businessman hailing from Punjab, stated: “People are entitled to their opinions, but I cannot endorse an unconstitutional option. Furthermore, the historical record holds testimony that unelected governments have consistently ended up in exacerbating the economic and geopolitical challenges faced by the country”.

An executive from a utility company, also present at the said gathering, said the discussion during the meeting primarily revolved around the topics of electricity and gas supplies as well as their pricing. The executive added: “The issue of elections or any potential delay was not raised throughout the course of the meeting in Islamabad”.

It’s significant that Sindh Governor Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori facilitated the said meeting.

Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, December 18th, 2023

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SEX EDUCATION, LIES AND PAKISTAN

The term ‘sex education’ immediately alarms many of us in Pakistan. The perceived definition of the term changes across different socio-economic, education and class backgrounds, but it is generally thought of as something that promotes illicit sexual activity and thinking. As a result, there are a host of myths and plenty of misinformation with regards to sex education in the country. This, in turn, leads to a lack of conversation around this topic in Pakistani society.

However, these misinterpretations further reinforce why sex education is so desperately needed in both urban and rural localities. Simply put, sex education consists of providing quality education about sex and gender in relation with social relationships, cognitive thinking, personal relationships and medically accurate physiology.

This article is based on the findings from an ongoing study consisting of interviews of medical professionals, doulas [midwives], married women, married men, unmarried men and pharmacists. The responses gathered during this study reveal just how damaging a failure to provide adequate sex education can be — both at an individual and at a societal level.

TROUBLING TABOOS

The interviewees were divided into three groups for the purpose of this study. Group 1 consisted of 12 middle class Muslim housewives, aged 50-60 years, and three married men in their 40s and 50s. Group 2 consisted of eight women from the age group of 30-40 years and six unmarried men in their 20s and 30s. Group 3 consisted of 20 women from the age group 20-30 years, out of which five were married.

In Pakistan, sex education continues to be regarded as a taboo subject. But the harm that is being done to the citizens of this country, and the myths that continue to be perpetuated by not talking about such matters, far outweighs any potential ‘embarrassment’ caused by openly addressing this topic

No sex education was given to them by their mothers, friends or other female guardians. They were taught about sexual intercourse on their wedding night by their husbands/ mother-in-laws/ elder sister-in-laws, or right before their wedding night by an older female relative, or the bride’s ‘side friend’ (married female who is beside the bride throughout the main wedding event).

This ‘crash course’ consisted primarily of directing the bride to relax, to not say no as it is the man’s right and to “leave it to the man.” No explicit medically relevant and accurate information was given to them about sexual intercourse or the complications that may occur during or after, leaving the women in shock and/or fear.

No medically relevant information was given to the women during prenatal and postnatal care. Three of the 12 women were undergraduates and were the only among this group to have practised family planning. Nine of the 12 women made fun of their husbands for not knowing what they were doing during sex. Two of the 12 women were general physicians and both knew nothing of sexual intercourse until after their wedding night.

One of them pointed out that, in her experience, the first night is unpleasurable for 80 percent of women. The same physician shared that, until her first year of medical school, she believed that women gave birth through their belly buttons. Five of the 12 women interviewed shared how they were brought up by their mothers and were taught by their mothers to fear all men, even their own fathers and brothers. Women who went out for their further studies initially lived in constant fear, until they got used to having men around them.

Group 2 complained of a similar lack of direction from their female guardians and/or friends during the time of their marriage, but they had a vague idea of what sex pertained to, through peer discussions and Facebook. According to them, their husbands knew what they were doing while they had no direction, except being told by their friends and family to relax and to not say no to their husbands. This group was not taught to fear men. They mentioned a lack of understanding of post- and prenatal care during their pregnancies much more than Group 1.

Group 1 and Group 2 received no medically relevant guidance about how to deal with their periods and/or their maturing bodies during puberty. Both groups had mothers who advised them not to take painkillers for dysmenorrhea (pain associated with period cramps) and that it should be appreciated and endured. Both groups associated shame and fear with the first time they had an onset of menses.

Group 2 did not discuss female pleasure and/or lack thereof during sex and felt less at ease discussing sex, whereas women in Group 1 did mention a lack of sexual pleasure and a lack of sexual understanding from their husbands, but said their husbands were willing to help.

Both groups associated birth as a natural process for women. They discussed how doctors today do not provide sufficient information to new mothers and abuse their power and their patients’ lack of awareness of their bodies for their own gain.

Six out of the eight women from Group 2 claimed that medical professionals verbally and physically abused them during the medical procedures they were involved in during their pregnancies or during childbirth. Five out of eight women claimed that they received wrong medical guidance by their doctors and nurses, either during their pregnancy or during childbirth, forcing them into having C-sections and/or misapplied epidurals, from which they still suffer.

Two of these six interviewees had an incorrect understanding of harassment and rape. They believed that men cat-calling and objectifying them was a healthy way to flirt and compliment women and confessed to having at least one emotionally abusive romantic relationship in the past.

Sex education reforms incentivised by the government should be introduced in school curriculums: teachers display a card with an illustration depicting a girl going through a medical checkup during a class at Shadabad Girls Elementary School in Pir Mashaikh village in Johi, Sindh | Reuters

A LACK OF UNDERSTANDING

For Group 3, 30 participants were initially approached, out of which 20 agreed to be interviewed. No hesitation was shown by the former two groups. The reasons given by the 10 who opted out of being interviewed were because their mother did not allow them, and/or due to moral or religious grounds and/or because they were uncomfortable discussing anything that may trigger their post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Six out of 20 interviewees were of middle class backgrounds, studied in government schools and had bachelor degrees. Three of these six interviewees had no siblings/ cousins/ friends from outside of this circle. They had no idea about what sex was and were shocked to learn about it on their wedding night or after their wedding night, through an older woman from the bride’s family/ mother-in-law/ sister-in-law.

Neither of the participants received medically relevant sex education from their mothers but did receive, directly or indirectly, religious and culturally relevant references to a husband’s sexual rights, a man’s sexual prowess and dominance and that nothing can be said against men that cheat on their wife as that ‘is in their nature.’

Two of these six interviewees had an incorrect understanding of harassment and rape. They believed that men cat-calling and objectifying them was a healthy way to flirt and compliment women and confessed to having at least one emotionally abusive romantic relationship in the past.

Sixteen of the 20 women expressed being sexually abused/harassed by men from their own families; of them five had told their mothers about it and four had expressed these concerns to their fathers. While the fathers supported them, the mothers either refused to acknowledge it, acknowledged it and asked their daughters to ignore it and to continue socialising with the harasser, or the mothers dealt with it by talking to their husbands or directly talking to the perpetrator’s parent or directly with the perpetrator, if he was a man/boy of the same age as their daughter. Seven of the 16 women discussed it with neither parent.

Women from all three groups were aware of the #MeToo movement, while only 13 of the 40 women supported the movement. The remaining women associated the movement with the Aurat March and said they did not agree with it on this basis.

All of these women discussed how a lack of sexual education leads to marital problems, while Group 3 also associated it with being one of the root causes of divorce.

Group 3 discussed the lack of understanding of consent. While Group 1 and 2 did not touch on this subject directly, they did point out the dangers of marital rape and abuse due to the wife having insufficient knowledge about sex, the wife being underage and naive, or the wife or the husband being “mentally retarded.”

It is not that we do not have the legal procedures needed to ensure these cases do not occur and to hold the perpetrators accountable, but that people are unaware of the relevant laws or the law is not above the cultural values they hold dear.

The women of Group 2 discussed how sexual abuse victims should be married to their perpetrators and that female sexual abuse victims are to blame to some extent for allowing the abuse. Such dialogues scare away their own children, especially daughters, from speaking up against their abusers.

This also shows a lack of correct understanding of consent. For those who do not understand their sexuality, for those sexually abused and for those who live in constant fear, the lack of sex education can leave them questioning their own existence.

Two of the three men in Group 1 believed that it was the victim’s fault that she was harassed or abused, while five of the six men from Group 2 disagreed and discussed how men, especially young boys, are often sexually abused in schools by their seniors or by both their male and female teachers. Group 1 received some aspects of sex education from their female friends or through the internet, which included the concept of menstruation and its psychosocial outcomes.

The rise in abortions shows a rise in unwanted pregnancies. This can be linked to poverty, illiteracy, lack of government support for pre- and post-natal care, change in community and family structures, extra and/or premarital affairs, and a lack of awareness of or proper use of contraceptives.

Both groups of men were aware of contraceptives, while only the latter group of younger men were aware of modern contraception methods such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and vasectomies.

One of the six men from Group 2 identified as a gay man. He belonged to the upper class and had formally educated ancestors. He discussed how he spent his adolescence struggling from a personality disorder, body dysmorphia and spent eight years in severe depression. When one day his older brother walked in on him discussing his sexuality on the phone, he encouraged him to disclose it to his parents.

While his mother spent hours praying for a divine sign, the father travelled to Karachi to meet with psychiatrists to find a cure. He was met with by-now discredited ‘solutions’, involving rehab and conversion therapy. Unsatisfied with the savage solutions, he met with Karachi’s leading psychiatrist, who taught him about homosexuality and explained that it is neither an individual’s choice nor is it a mental disability.

His mother said that if this is how God made him, then there can be nothing wrong with it. Today, he spends his life as an openly gay man among his immediate and extended family.

THE SOCIETAL IMPACT

Women in Pakistan are constantly abused and killed in the name of ‘honour’ if they are accused of ‘adultery’ (premarital sex, affairs and, in many cases, for simply knowing a man). There are also cases of women being divorced or killed for not bleeding during the first sexual intercourse after marriage. In many metropolitan and rural areas, women are made to go through a ‘virginity’ test to prove they are ‘innocent’ and viable for marriage.

If the man is unable to be fulfilled sexually or is infertile, his wife might be killed or his sister-in-law may be given to him ‘in exchange’ for his wife. The man on the other hand is not questioned if he is infertile or has children out of wedlock.

Interviews with obstetricians, gynaecologists, urologists and general physicians give us further insight into the situations at hand. They reveal an increase in infertility, hormonal imbalances and other reproductive and sexual ailments that are a result of social prejudice among people of all socio-economic backgrounds.

According to the data provided by the US-based Guttmacher Institute, 2,240,000 out of a total of 9,720,000 pregnancies in Pakistan ended in abortions, from 2015-2019. These figures point towards an increase in unwanted pregnancies. Young working class women are increasingly finding it difficult to regulate reproductive health and often come to the hospital in the aftermath of at-home abortions. However, they are not the only women opting for criminalised abortions.

A veteran female gynaecologist practising in a private clinic in an upper class area in Karachi talked to us about how so many teenagers and young women are coming increasingly for abortions with fake names, and almost all of them pretend to be married. They are willing to pay large amounts of money to remain anonymous. Further interviews with five other gynaecologists confirmed that such situations are becoming much more common than they were a decade ago.

However, these are licensed medical professionals with licensed clinics. Low income areas have illegal abortion clinics with both licensed and unlicensed medical professionals. Lady health workers approach local clinics and offer their services with a share from their earnings, while smaller clinics offer forms of modern contraceptives such as an IUD, locally known as a ‘jaali’ (lattice). However, a lack of adequately trained staff and proper aftercare makes it commonly injurious to the patients’ health, thus resulting in several health complications.

The rise in abortions shows a rise in unwanted pregnancies. This can be linked to poverty, illiteracy, lack of government support for pre- and post-natal care, change in community and family structures — resulting in parents bearing the responsibility of a child alone — extra and/or premarital affairs, and a lack of awareness of or proper use of contraceptives.

Working class women choose much more extreme measures for a clandestine termination, by resorting to self-induced miscarriages. They are supported by their mothers and often even their mother-in-law.

Abortions are common even in women from rural Pakistan. Second year interns at Indus Hospital in Karachi said that rural women from interior Sindh and Balochistan often come to them, accompanied by their mother-in-laws, asking for abortions and modern contraceptives. Rural areas have a much lower rate of contraceptive use, given the fact that women have almost no say in discussing family planning, are far younger than their husbands and thus have a higher fertility rate, have less or no access to medical assistance, and are less aware of contraceptives.

Urologists and male general physicians said there has been an increase in depression and suicide among men due to a lack of awareness about infertility, other male reproductive dysfunctions, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and a lack of understanding and acceptance of homosexuality. Patients are unaware of their ailments and whether or not they can be cured. Given the immense amount of shame and fear associated with these ailments, many patients do not ever see a medical professional.

Interviews with pharmacists from large-scale drug stores revealed an increase in the sale of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and condoms, which are also much more accessible due to the introduction of online pharmacies. This caters to the youth more steadily. They also revealed the sale of the abortion pill. Larger pharmacies supply to smaller in-clinic pharmacies at the offices of gynaecologists, to local drug stores, and to lady health workers and midwives.

Medicinal resources and trained human capital is unavailable for safe abortions and pregnancies. A study performed in 1997 revealed that, of 452 women from three provincial capitals of Pakistan who had abortions, 64.4 percent of the women chose to do so because they felt they already had too many children. This was 26 years ago.

A lack of proper access to medicines such as oxycontin, for postpartum haemorrhage and proper neonatal care, causes a high neonatal death rate in Pakistan. In an interview in 2012, a member of the government’s National Commission on Maternal and Neonatal Health said that 80 percent of Pakistani women end up with the need of medical assistance to reduce uteronic bleeding and 27 percent of maternal deaths in Pakistan are a result of postpartum bleeding.

Yet, a lack of proper medical resources persists, while unlicensed medical professionals continue to practise medical procedures on mothers. The maternal mortality ratio of Pakistan in 2019 was 186 deaths per 100,000 live births, and the ratio is nearly 26 percent higher in rural areas as compared to urban areas.

Social media and access to all-inclusive content from Netflix and Youtube provides acceptance and awareness about what challenges people of different genders and sexualities face in their personal and social lives. This exposure can act as a strong catalyst in the sexual revolution in Pakistan, as it leads to a questioning of harmful societal norms.

Guardians and teachers remain largely unaware of or in denial of this sexual revolution. The pervasive social tradition of providing no sex education at home will only result in children continuing to resort to hiding their personal identities and their sexual activities.

SEX EDUCATION FOR ALL

An empowering and equitable socio-economic and political environment is needed to enable people, especially those that the economy and society discriminates against, and to counteract the stigma associated with sex.

New sexual health programmes that are incentivised by the government should be introduced. Existing programmes such as the Lady Health Worker Programmes, which already involve communal midwives, lady health workers, nurses, local physicians and obstetrician-gynaecologists, are well-placed to be used and should be equipped with the resources and training needed to cater to and to spread awareness about sexual health.

The training must take into account socio-economic factors, migration and urbanisation, to delicately and strategically provide the medical resources the citizens are rightfully owed by the government. This would also help the government collect both qualitative and quantitative data that could start to be accumulated as a result of such programmes. Workers and researchers must be paid or offered other insurances, such as health and education, in order to combat their elevated levels of financial and other strains.

Sex education reforms incentivised by the government should be introduced in school curriculums. A legally required school curriculum should be introduced that can be tailored by medical and childhood development and childhood education professionals from kindergarten to grade 12, and should be medically accurate, complete and age appropriate.

Teachers should be trained to provide sex education in a way that connects with the students’ basic self-concept: who am I? Self-concept questions such as, “What five words would you use to describe yourself?” should be linked with questions and activities about gender identity and sexual concepts that would help children learn how their mind, body and sexual orientation are all connected. Developing a positive, confident and resilient self-identity will help students become more empathic and understanding of each other.

Teachers should also be trained to make children comfortable even when discussing subjects that may make some students uncomfortable or shy. Parental committees could be set up in schools, whereby parents and teachers can monitor and discuss issues faced with forming an acceptable sex education curriculum. Both parents and teachers should be monitored.

The curriculum should also include, based on the age of students, their reproductive rights and how their country’s legal framework takes them into account. Knowing their rights, or lack of rights, helps laymen fight injustice, as they are then able to recognise injustice and they are aware of the power they hold over any perpetrators.

Until our school curriculums, teacher training and other social education incentives are not reformed, toxic behaviour patterns among families, especially between parents, will continue to generate apathetic and emotionally stunted individuals, and familial and marital abuse will persist, all while the government continues to not provide legal and social security.

Header image: Illustration by Radia Durrani

The writer is a researcher whose work revolves around social and cultural anthropology.
She can be reached at khadijaimran62@gmail.com

Published in Dawn, EOS, December 17th, 2023

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PTI remains obstinate as other parties hail SC order on polls

LAHORE: Buoyed by the Supreme Court’s decision, followed by the announcement of the general elections schedule, most political parties on Friday unanimously proclaimed that a “major conspiracy to delay the polls” has failed.

PTI, however, refused to join the celebrations, with party leaders continuing to question the biases of bureaucrats to be appointed as poll officers.

In a post on X, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif wrote: “The SC’s landmark decision to ensure Feb 8 polls will strengthen democracy and protect the Constitution.”

Mr Sharif claimed that the apex court foiled PTI’s conspiracy against democracy and the Constitution.

Repeats concerns over bias of bureaucrats; PML-N, PPP, MQM-P say ‘bid to delay polls’ foiled

“PTI’s effort to run away from elections failed,” he said, re-emphasising that Imran Khan’s PTI did not want polls.

Former finance minister and PML-N leader Ishaq Dar said holding polls was ECP’s sole responsibility as the circumstances and the Constitution demanded timely elections.

Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party Information Secretary Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan said the verdict has removed “all hurdles” in timely elections.

“The Supreme Court has saved democracy and ensured supremacy of the Constitution for which we are thankful for it,” she wrote in a post on X.

MQM-P’s Aminul Haq welcomed the decision, saying it has put an end to the uncertainties and speculations surrounding general elections.

“We are among those who are already in electioneering mode. We want timely, free and fair elections,” he said while talking to reporters in Karachi.

PPP Punjab Secretary General Hasan Murtaza also said a major conspiracy to delay polls had been foiled.

“The face of undemocratic forces has been exposed … Those who wanted to come to power with the help of others did not want elections,” he said, adding only the PPP believed in the electoral pro-cess. “Those who were sabotaging the elections are the enemies of the people of Pakistan.”

Before the SC order, PPP’s Faisal Karim Kundi, in a press conference, said irrespective of the situation, “elections must be held on Feb 8”.

He claimed his party wants elections at any cost while “PMLN and PTI are trying to escape from polls.”

“Pakistan, at the moment, cannot afford any other ladla (blue-eyed) person”.

In a statement before the SC order, Balochistan Awami Party leaders strongly condemned the PTI for approaching the Lahore High Court (LHC) against the appointment of bureaucrats as presiding and returning officers.

“PTI, a political party, is afraid of elections and is using such tactics for their postponement,” BAP leaders said.

PTI repeats apprehensions

While expressing its concerns, PTI also demanded the ECP to announce polls’ schedule and allot it the ‘bat’ symbol.

“The ECP should immediately announce the elections’ schedule and speed up its preparations to ensure free, fair and transparent general elections on February 8, 2024, in any circumstances,” the PTI said and urged the SC to put a halt on ongoing spree of forcing PTI leaders to change loyalties.

After the SC’s verdict, a message posted on the X account of PTI’s Punjab chapter said: “A DC [deputy commissioner] which doesn’t allow PTI to hold a convention will now conduct elections.”

In an apparently sarcastic tweet, senior PTI leader Taimur Khan Jhagra wrote: “Returning Officers (ROs) are critical to a #FreeAndFairElection. DCs and other DMG officers are servants of the state, politically unbiased, independent, and so must do their jobs fairly.”

To convey his point, the ex-finance minister of KP attached a video clip of a professional WWE wrestling match, showing Hulk Hogan being ‘robbed’ of a victory against Andre the Giant by ‘biased’ referees.

“Will the right RO please stand up?” he wrote, leaving little doubt as to what he meant.

Another PTI leader, Moonis Elahi, wrote on X: “Bureaucracy can’t go to wash-room without permission ..how will it hold free and fair polls? We demand transparent elections.”

Syed Irfan Raza in Islamabad, Saleem Shahid in Quetta and Imran Ayub in Karachi also contributed to this report

Published in Dawn, December 16th, 2023

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