An anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi has indicted Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Ali Amin Gandapur, and 14 others in the GHQ attack case. The charges relate to the violent events of May 9, 2023, when protesters targeted various sensitive locations. During the proceedings, the prosecution alleged that the accused planned the attack and incited agitators to damage the GHQ building. The accused, however, denied the charges and termed the case as politically motivated. The court has directed all accused to present evidence in their defense at the next hearing. Additionally, instructions have been issued to expedite the case proceedings for an early…
Author: Raja Zahid Khanzada
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has dismissed Salman Ahmad from the party following his critical post on social media regarding Imran Khan’s family. A PTI spokesperson stated that the party will not tolerate any irresponsible or negative actions, regardless of who they come from within the party. According to the spokesperson, Salman Ahmad’s post harmed the party’s reputation, prompting the decision to take action against him. This move highlights the importance of internal discipline and accountability within PTI. The party has sent a clear message to its members that any unethical or irresponsible behavior will not be tolerated.
The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing suppression of dissent and freedom of expression in Pakistan. The organization stated that every possible tactic is being employed to target journalists, media houses, and independent voices. In its statement, AEMEND highlighted that these actions not only undermine freedom of expression but also violate constitutional rights. The association called on the government to allow independent media to operate freely and uphold democratic values. AEMEND noted that tactics such as legal actions, threats, and coercion are being used to stifle dissent, which is detrimental…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during the D-8 Summit, emphasized the importance of empowering youth and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for economic growth. He urged member states to take initiatives to harness the potential of youth and create business opportunities through modern technology. The PM highlighted that youth are the backbone of any nation and stressed the need for collaborative policies to utilize their skills effectively. He also proposed enhancing trade relations and cooperation in the digital economy among D-8 member countries. Shehbaz Sharif noted that SMEs are the backbone of the economy, and supporting them could achieve sustainable…
According to the latest data from the European Union Agency for Asylum, nearly 29,000 Pakistani nationals sought protection in the EU over the past year. This marks an annual increase, highlighting issues such as economic challenges, political instability, and security concerns driving migration. Most Pakistani applicants aim for asylum in countries like Italy, Germany, and Greece. The report also notes that many of these applications are rejected, leaving some individuals to reside illegally. Experts suggest that the search for better opportunities and internal challenges compel Pakistanis to migrate. While EU countries have tightened their asylum policies, some applications are approved…
A building on Karachi’s bustling MA Jinnah Road witnessed its second blaze in two weeks. The latest incident occurred on Monday night, causing extensive damage to several sections of the structure. According to fire brigade officials, four fire tenders were dispatched to the scene, and the fire was brought under control after several hours of effort. Preliminary investigations suggest that a short circuit might have caused the fire. Local residents revealed that the building is used for commercial activities and has been the subject of complaints regarding a lack of safety measures. Authorities have ordered an investigation into the incident…
The Punjab Education Department has revised the schedule for winter holidays, announcing new dates. According to the updated plan, educational institutions across the province will remain closed from December 25 to January 5. Officials from the department stated that the decision was made considering the severity of the weather and the convenience of students and teachers. They also confirmed that academic activities would resume on the specified dates. Previously, the winter holidays were scheduled to begin on December 20. However, due to recent weather conditions and other factors, the new dates have been set.
The Adviser to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information and Public Relations has stated that “peace is not possible without the surrender of arms” in relation to the ongoing violence in Kurram district. He emphasized that all parties involved in the conflict must immediately hand over their weapons to the government. He noted that the government is taking all necessary steps to restore peace, but public and tribal elders’ cooperation is essential. The adviser added that the process of surrendering arms will be supervised by local administration and law enforcement agencies. The recent clashes in Kurram have resulted…
Sources reveal that backchannel contacts between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are being reactivated. Both sides have reportedly initiated efforts to reduce political tensions and resolve issues through dialogue. Reports suggest that informal meetings have taken place between PTI representatives and government officials, aiming to address disputes through parliamentary processes. However, no formal announcement of negotiations or agreements has been made. These contacts are seen as significant amidst prevailing political tensions and public pressure on both the government and the opposition.
The year 2024 was marked by a political rollercoaster in Pakistan, with significant decisions and historic moments shaping the nation’s trajectory. From the outset, the political climate remained tense, with ongoing clashes and negotiations among various political parties. Promises of economic recovery, international relations, and internal political crises put the government to the test. Disputes over the general election timeline further complicated the political landscape, as parties demanded electoral reforms and transparency. Meanwhile, public protests and demonstrations highlighted issues like inflation, unemployment, and other pressing concerns. The year 2024 not only defined Pakistan’s political direction but also highlighted changes in…
