Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, delivered a scathing critique of the nation’s governance, asserting that the state system is failing and fostering a class-based society across all sectors. Speaking at a ceremony for interest-free loan provision in Wazirabad, he highlighted the dire economic situation, noting that 44% of Pakistanis live below the poverty line, even as diverse national developments unfold across the country.
Rehman underscored the ineffectiveness of existing welfare programs, citing the Benazir Income Support Program as an example, arguing they fail to eradicate poverty and merely serve as superficial governmental gestures. He expressed grave concern over youth unemployment, predicting widespread despair if job opportunities remain scarce, and advocated for robust IT training programs to empower skilled young individuals. Furthermore, he called for a fundamental overhaul of the entrenched police and judicial systems (Thana Kacheri), as well as the feudal and capitalist structures, urging a potent and unified voice for systemic change. He also explicitly stated Pakistan should not deploy its military to Gaza under any circumstances. Despite the challenges, Rehman conveyed a message of hope, affirming that Jamaat-e-Islami intends to intensify its activism in the foreseeable future.
In the political arena, Rana Sanaullah reiterated claims that national affairs were orchestrated by Faiz Hameed, General Bajwa, and the founder of PTI. Meanwhile, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) issued a statement refuting propaganda disseminated by specific political factions. On the electoral front, polling in a certain constituency is set to continue uninterrupted until 5 PM, with 84 out of 178 polling stations designated as sensitive and 54 as highly sensitive.
Law enforcement agencies have been active across the country. Karachi Police apprehended Jawad Qadri, Shahzeb Mulla, and several others suspected of involvement in an extortion ring. Similar action was taken against alleged extortionists Wasiullah Lakho and Abdul Samad Kathiawari, based on intelligence information and technical evidence. In a positive development, data from “One Five” indicates a 28% reduction in crime-related calls received by authorities. However, crime incidents persist, as reported by police in Kot Sabma, where robbers looted Rs. 600,000 from a citizen before fleeing. The Rangers spokesperson also confirmed interdictions of smuggled mobile phones being transported from Balochistan in hidden compartments. Tragic incidents include the discovery of a foreign airline’s station manager’s body at Karachi Airport’s Jinnah Terminal and the confirmation by police of a missing woman’s body found in Orangi Town, Sector 11.5, five days after her disappearance. An Islamabad court, meanwhile, issued a written order for reconciliation in a case involving the deaths of two girls, Samreen Hussain and Tabinda Batool, in a vehicle collision.
Economically, Bilal bin Saqib announced a significant institutional change, stating that for the first time in history, a structured, transparent, and globally compliant pathway has been established for international exchanges, reflecting innovative thinking. On the infrastructure front, the Motorway M-1 from Peshawar to Rashakai has been closed, as confirmed by a Motorway Police spokesperson.
Adverse weather conditions are impacting travel, with snowfall disrupting traffic flow on mountainous routes and potentially leading to road closures. Wildlife authorities are facing a challenge with a leopard captured five days prior in the Galiyat region with local assistance. In Karachi, Jamaat-e-Islami continues its protest sit-in at Numaish Chowrangi, underscoring ongoing social and political activism. These varied reports underscore a dynamic and challenging national landscape, from governance critiques and economic pressures to law enforcement actions and environmental concerns.
