Islamabad, Pakistan – Former Sindh Governor Imran Ismail has critically assessed the current leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), declaring it “incompetent” and asserting that the party has reached a significant impasse. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad alongside former MNA Mahmood Moulvi, Ismail urged PTI to pursue reconciliation, emphasizing that all political factions, including PTI, must set aside differences and engage in dialogue around a single table to steer the nation forward.
Ismail underscored the necessity for a shift in political attitudes, advocating for comprehensive discussions with all stakeholders to forge a unified national direction. He remarked on the rare occasion of Pakistanis holding their heads high on the global stage, urging politicians not to squander this momentum. The former Governor also touched upon accountability, noting that while discussions on the matter were prevalent, practical implementation was lacking. He cited a reported 14-year sentence for Faiz Hameed, describing the process as challenging even for the Pakistan Army, though further details were not provided.
Mahmood Moulvi echoed Ismail’s sentiments, welcoming the military court’s decision regarding Faiz Hameed and highlighting the damage caused to institutions. He stressed the imperative for all political parties to convene and chart a collective course for the country. Moulvi also criticized the lack of internal democracy within political parties and advocated for the creation of new administrative units to foster development.
**National Briefs and Key Developments:**
* **Political Commentary:** State Minister for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani accused the PTI founder and party of echoing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rhetoric. Separately, Senior Minister of Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted religious freedom in the province and claimed to have “reclaimed” the country from those who “occupied” it for four years. Muslim League-N’s Amir Muqam criticized Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for reportedly avoiding discussions on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s health crisis.
* **Judicial & Legal Updates:** The Islamabad High Court continued hearings in Justice Tariq Jehangiri’s degree dispute case, where Advocate Qazi Anwar stated Barrister Gohar confirmed nominations, with Salman Akram Raja and Hamid Khan issuing a written order. In Bahawalpur, Deputy Commissioner Syed Hassan Raza suspended three Para Force personnel. YouTubers Rajab Butt and Nadeem Mubarak have sought court bail in a case concerning the promotion of online gambling. Law enforcement agencies in Thandyani Road reported an incident where an accused, Shamrez, and his associates fired upon police during a raid. In Quetta, actions were taken against violations of the election code of conduct during local body polls. Reports emerged of two individuals found deceased at a residence, according to law enforcement.
* **Environmental Concerns:** Several Pakistani cities are grappling with severe air pollution. Lahore ranked as the second most polluted city globally, recording a staggering 337 Air Quality Index (AQI). Dense fog led to the closure of various sections of motorways across Punjab, disrupting traffic.
* **Economic Appeals:** The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) appealed to the government for the swift resolution of the goods transporters’ strike, citing its negative impact on trade.
* **International Condolences:** President Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori separately extended their heartfelt condolences to the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan following a recent shooting incident at a Sydney beach. Meanwhile, Pakistani youth Sheikh Naveed was reportedly subjected to propaganda on Indian and Afghan social media, which falsely labeled him as an attacker.
* **Health & Technology:** The Balochistan Health Department completed the first phase of its AI-based attendance system, registering employees across District Health Headquarters (DHQs) and medical colleges.
* **Cultural Initiatives:** A new film project aims to highlight Lyari’s vibrant sports culture, rich heritage, and positive community aspects.
