Punjab government’s Local Government Act faces opposition from Jamaat-e-Islami, which has taken the matter to court. Jamaat-e-Islami’s Ameer, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, expressed concerns over the Act, stating that it contradicts the Constitution and undermines the system of local governments. He emphasized that unless powers are transferred to the lower levels, resentment among the masses and demands for provincial autonomy will continue to rise.
During a media interaction outside the Lahore High Court, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman pointed out that the current system does not allow the people to directly elect their representatives, which he considers a sad reality. He also stated that the security agencies have reported that three people were severely injured in a mortar attack on the Afghan Taliban’s civilian population.
In other news, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, Salmān Akram Raja, announced that he would step down as the central leader during a meeting with the party’s founder. The Sindh High Court has ordered the release of a defendant involved in a case of smuggling more than 300 kilograms of opium. Field Marshal’s delegation, along with a team of doctors, has reached Tehran as part of an effort to facilitate a reconciliation between Pakistan and Iran.
The Supreme Court of Pakistan has directed a private airline employee to pay 24 years of arrears, while the Sindh High Court has appointed three lawyers as court assistants in a case related to harassment and suicide. The authorities and security agencies have been instructed to prepare for any eventuality. PTI leader Salmān Akram Raja has expressed his disagreement with the statements made by Alimah Khan.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued guidelines for the launch of a halal financing product. PTI leader Timur Salim Jhagda has criticized the government for failing to maintain a fixed price for petroleum products. The opposition alliance, Tehreek-e-Hifazat-e-Islam, has accused the government of benefiting the mafia with the recent price hike of petrol. The Sindh High Court has taken a strong stance against retailers in Karachi who are increasing their profits by raising the prices of milk, compromising its quality, and adulterating it.
In other news, the Saudi Arabian city of Neom has become a major trade hub in the Red Sea. The Saudi authorities have announced the launch of a new high-speed trade route connecting Europe to the Gulf states. During a meeting, the UAE Vice President discussed efforts to reduce tensions in the region with Balochistan Chief Minister, Mir Abdul Qadir Magsi.
The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ordered a private airline employee to pay 24 years of arrears.
