فیچرڈ

A district and sessions court in Islamabad has ruled in favor of Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal in a long-running defamation lawsuit, ordering former federal minister Murad Saeed to pay Rs2.5 million in damages for making corruption allegations that the court found to be unsubstantiated. The judgment was delivered by Additional Sessions Judge Hakim Khan, who concluded that the statements made by Murad Saeed had harmed Ahsan Iqbal’s reputation and amounted to defamation under the law. According to the court’s ruling, Murad Saeed failed to prove his public allegations that Ahsan Iqbal had been involved in corruption worth Rs70 billion. The court held that the accusations, which included claims of corruption, misuse of authority, and receiving illegal commissions, were not supported by evidence and therefore constituted defamatory statements. The case originated from remarks made by Murad Saeed in 2019, when he accused Ahsan Iqbal of financial irregularities in connection with the Multan–Sukkur Motorway Project, one of Pakistan’s major infrastructure developments. Ahsan Iqbal strongly denied the allegations and subsequently filed a defamation suit seeking Rs10 billion in damages. In its written judgment, the court acknowledged that Ahsan Iqbal had claimed Rs10 billion as compensation but determined that the amount sought was excessive in light of the evidence presented during the proceedings. Instead, the court awarded Rs2.5 million in damages, describing the sum as appropriate compensation for the reputational harm caused by the false allegations. The judgment stated that Murad Saeed’s controversial statements had damaged Ahsan Iqbal’s public image, honor, and dignity. It further observed that the allegations created a negative perception of the federal minister among members of the public, affecting his credibility and standing. According to the court, the accusations amounted to a direct attack on Ahsan Iqbal’s integrity, character, and professional reputation. Since the allegations involved serious claims of corruption and abuse of public office, the court found that they had the potential to undermine public confidence in him without any factual basis. The ruling also noted that Murad Saeed neither appeared before the court to defend his statements nor presented any evidence to substantiate the corruption allegations. His failure to support the claims played a significant role in the court’s decision to rule in favor of Ahsan Iqbal. The verdict reinforces the legal principle that individuals making public allegations of corruption must be prepared to provide credible evidence to support their claims. In the absence of such proof, the court held that the statements amounted to defamation and entitled the affected party to compensation. The decision marks the conclusion of a legal dispute that has remained pending since 2019 and highlights the growing use of defamation proceedings in Pakistan to address reputational damage arising from political statements. While the court reduced the amount of compensation sought by Ahsan Iqbal, it nevertheless concluded that Murad Saeed’s allegations were unfounded and had caused measurable harm to the minister’s reputation. As a result, the former federal minister has been directed to pay Rs2.5 million in damages in accordance with the court’s judgment.

The head of the Awam Pakistan Party, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, has criticized the government over the country’s worsening economic and political situation, saying that even government representatives have now started raising concerns about the state of affairs in Pakistan. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Abbasi said that the interior minister had realized after four to five years that the country was facing serious governance challenges, while ordinary Pakistanis had been expressing similar concerns for years. “The people of Pakistan have been saying the same thing for the past four to five years,” Abbasi stated, adding that government ministers should raise such issues directly during cabinet meetings instead of discussing them publicly. The former prime minister stressed that Pakistan urgently requires meaningful reforms and warned that temporary or superficial measures would not solve the country’s deep-rooted problems. He argued that the country has repeatedly experimented with short-term solutions every year, but what is needed is a fundamental change in the system. “We need to change the system and establish the rule of law,” Abbasi said, emphasizing that strong institutions and equal application of laws are necessary for long-term stability. Abbasi also criticized political divisions and the practice of using accountability cases against opponents. He called for an end to the cycle of imprisoning political rivals, questioning how the country could progress if every politician was accused of corruption. “If all politicians are corrupt, then who will run the country?” he asked. The Awam Pakistan Party leader claimed that two major stakeholders currently play a dominant role in running the country, but instead of working together, both sides continue to blame each other for national problems. Discussing the economic situation, Abbasi said that the income of Pakistani citizens has declined significantly over the past six years. He claimed that household purchasing power has fallen by approximately 14 percent, leaving many families struggling financially. “Every household in Pakistan has become poorer,” he said, adding that unemployment has reached its highest level in 21 years. Abbasi also highlighted the increasing tax burden on citizens, stating that the average Pakistani now pays around Rs60,000 in taxes annually. He said that taxes that were previously around Rs30,000 have doubled in recent years, while poverty continues to rise across the country. The former prime minister argued that Pakistan is struggling to attract investment because of inconsistent policies and uncertainty. He accused the government of relying heavily on taxation rather than creating conditions that encourage economic growth. “There is no certainty about when new taxes will be imposed,” Abbasi said, claiming that unpredictable policies discourage businesses and investors from operating in Pakistan. He also raised concerns about public health and food security, stating that thousands of children in Pakistan are affected by HIV and that the government has started importing wheat despite the country being an agricultural economy. “A country known for agriculture is now purchasing wheat from abroad,” he remarked. Abbasi further criticized rising costs of essential services, including electricity, gas, petrol, and diesel. He said that ordinary citizens are facing increasing financial pressure because of continuous price increases. According to Abbasi, Pakistan’s current situation reflects a broader governance failure, and without major reforms, improvements in economic conditions will remain difficult. He called for political cooperation, institutional reform, and policies focused on economic stability rather than short-term measures.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sindh leader Nisar Khuhro has strongly criticized discussions surrounding the creation of new provinces in the country, describing them as part of what he called a “dangerous conspiracy” aimed at weakening Pakistan’s democratic environment. Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, Khuhro questioned the purpose behind proposals for creating additional provinces, saying that such moves could lead to unnecessary political divisions. “Do we want to create 22 provinces and have 22 chief ministers?” he asked, adding that the current developments were an attempt to damage the democratic atmosphere of Pakistan. Khuhro stated that the creation of new provinces requires a two-thirds majority in the relevant provincial assembly, emphasizing that such a major constitutional change cannot be carried out without proper legal and political procedures. Referring to those supporting such initiatives, he used strong language and said that “cockroaches have emerged and will continue to emerge,” adding that those responsible for such moves would face opposition. The PPP leader argued that Pakistan has a long history of political instability and conspiracies, warning that similar approaches in the past had caused serious damage to the country. He recalled that Pakistan had previously suffered from flawed policies and political decisions, stating that powerful forces had played a role in harming national institutions and stability. Commenting on recent remarks by the interior minister regarding the country’s governance system, Khuhro said that if the system was described as outdated or ineffective, those benefiting from the current hybrid political arrangement should also consider their role. “The interior minister says the system has become outdated, but they appear comfortable within the hybrid system,” he remarked. Khuhro also highlighted what he described as repeated interruptions in Pakistan’s democratic process. He said that throughout history, elected governments and prime ministers have often been prevented from completing their constitutional terms. He pointed out that some elected leaders were removed from office, while others faced severe consequences, including imprisonment and execution. He also referred to the struggles of democracy activists, saying that workers who participated in movements for the restoration of democracy had faced harsh treatment, including physical punishment. According to Khuhro, political parties have repeatedly been denied the opportunity to complete their constitutional mandates, which has weakened democratic institutions in the country. The PPP leader stressed that political stability and respect for constitutional processes were essential for Pakistan’s future. He warned that attempts to create unnecessary divisions could further increase uncertainty and weaken national unity. During the press conference, Khuhro also mentioned political developments within the PPP, stating that Karachi-based businessman Saeed had joined the Pakistan Peoples Party. He welcomed the inclusion of new members, saying that the party continued to expand its political engagement. Khuhro’s comments come amid ongoing discussions in Pakistan regarding administrative reforms and proposals for creating new provinces. Supporters of new provinces argue that they could improve governance and bring government closer to citizens, while opponents have raised concerns about political motives, financial challenges, and potential divisions. The PPP leader maintained that any constitutional changes must follow democratic procedures and should serve the interests of the people rather than create further political instability.

Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, retired Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, has said that the law and order situation in Muzaffarabad has improved, following concerns over uncertainty and security challenges in the city. Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said that while there had been an atmosphere of uncertainty in Muzaffarabad the previous day, the situation had now become more stable and peaceful. He added that additional security personnel had been deployed at the two most sensitive constituencies in the region to ensure peaceful polling. The chief election commissioner said that security arrangements for elections on migrant seats in Pakistan were the responsibility of the relevant provincial governments. He explained that election materials had been dispatched to polling stations and that presiding officers had also left for their assigned areas. “Election equipment has been sent to the polling stations, and presiding officers have moved toward their respective locations,” he said, adding that in some remote areas, the transportation of election materials was continuing gradually due to logistical challenges. Justice Mughal confirmed that polling in Muzaffarabad would take place the following day and identified two constituencies—LA-5 Khawora and LA-3 Lajrat—as highly sensitive areas requiring additional security arrangements. He said extra security forces had been deployed at sensitive polling stations, while Quick Response Force units would also remain available throughout the polling process. In the event of any emergency or disturbance, the quick response teams would immediately intervene to control the situation and maintain peace. The chief election commissioner expressed confidence that the security arrangements would help ensure a smooth and transparent election process. He emphasized that all necessary measures were being taken to protect voters, polling staff, and election officials. Meanwhile, preparations for the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections have been completed. Polling will be held in three districts of the Muzaffarabad division as well as on 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. According to the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission, the Muzaffarabad division consists of three districts: Muzaffarabad, Neelum, and Jhelum Valley. More than 890,000 registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots across these areas. A total of 208 candidates are contesting elections in nine constituencies across the three districts. The voting process will also include refugee seats representing Jammu and Kashmir Valley migrants who are currently residing in Pakistan. The Election Commission stated that six seats representing Jammu and six seats representing the Valley will be contested by Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan. These seats are part of the legislative structure of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and allow displaced communities to participate in the political process. Authorities have increased security arrangements across polling areas to prevent any disruption and ensure that voters can exercise their right peacefully. Election officials have also directed security agencies and administrative departments to remain alert throughout polling day. The second phase of voting is being closely monitored due to the importance of the constituencies involved and previous concerns regarding security. Officials have assured that all necessary steps have been taken to conduct free, fair, and peaceful elections in the region.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif at his residence in Raiwind, Lahore, where the two leaders held detailed discussions on the country’s overall situation and political developments. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar were also present during the meeting. The discussion covered a range of important national and political matters, with the participants reviewing the current challenges facing the country. The meeting between the senior PML-N leadership comes amid ongoing political and economic developments in Pakistan, where the government continues to focus on governance, economic stability, and policy implementation. The leaders exchanged views on the prevailing national environment and discussed matters related to the government’s future priorities. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that the meeting included a comprehensive review of the country’s overall situation. However, further details regarding the specific issues discussed were not disclosed in the official statement. Nawaz Sharif, who remains the president of the PML-N and an influential figure within the party, continues to play an important role in guiding party policies and strategic decisions. Despite no longer holding public office, he frequently meets senior party leadership to discuss political matters and government performance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has maintained close communication with Nawaz Sharif on key national issues since taking office. Their meetings often focus on economic reforms, administrative matters, political strategy, and efforts to address challenges faced by the country. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s presence at the meeting also highlighted the importance of provincial governance and coordination between the federal and Punjab governments. Since assuming office, Maryam Nawaz has focused on various development initiatives and administrative reforms in Punjab. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also serves as a senior PML-N leader, has remained involved in economic policymaking and government affairs. His participation in the meeting reflected discussions related to national economic priorities and financial matters. Political observers consider meetings among the top PML-N leadership significant, especially at a time when Pakistan faces multiple challenges, including economic pressures, political disagreements, and the need for institutional reforms. The government has repeatedly emphasized the importance of political stability and economic recovery, while opposition parties continue to criticize government policies and demand greater accountability. The Raiwind meeting reflects the continued coordination among senior PML-N leaders as they evaluate the country’s situation and plan their political approach. Although the official statement did not provide specific details, such consultations are considered an important part of the party’s decision-making process. The meeting concluded with discussions focused on national interests, political matters, and strategies for addressing the challenges facing Pakistan. The PML-N leadership is expected to continue consultations on important issues as the government moves forward with its agenda.

Former Pakistan Test captain and wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif has called on Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to make better use of former captain Younis Khan’s expertise for the growth and development of cricket in the country. Latif believes that experienced former players like Younis Khan can play a significant role in nurturing young talent and strengthening Pakistan’s cricket structure. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Younis Khan Cricket Academy at KHA Legend Arena in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Rashid Latif stressed the need to put Pakistan cricket on the right path by involving accomplished cricketers in the development process. He said Younis Khan’s vast experience and commitment to the game make him one of the best individuals to guide the next generation of players. Latif also reflected on Karachi’s rich cricketing history, noting that there was a time when the Pakistan national team featured a large number of players from the city. However, he said the situation has changed over the years, and Karachi no longer contributes players at the same level as it once did. Highlighting the importance of Karachi’s Malir district, Rashid Latif said the area has produced several outstanding cricketers, including Saeed Anwar, Khurram Manzoor, Asim Kamal, Younis Khan, and himself. According to him, the region has long been a breeding ground for cricketing talent and deserves continued investment in player development. The former captain also pointed out that while many of Younis Khan’s contemporaries are seeking positions within the Pakistan Cricket Board, Younis has remained focused on serving the game by working directly with aspiring cricketers. Latif praised this dedication, saying it reflects Younis Khan’s genuine passion for Pakistan cricket. Rashid Latif expressed confidence that the Younis Khan Cricket Academy will help revive grassroots cricket in Karachi by providing young players with quality coaching and professional guidance. He emphasized that similar initiatives can strengthen the country’s cricketing future if supported by the PCB and other stakeholders. Concluding his remarks, Latif paid tribute to Younis Khan’s remarkable achievements, describing his record of more than 10,000 Test runs and 34 Test centuries as an extraordinary milestone. He said cricketers of Younis Khan’s caliber are produced only once in a generation, making it essential for Pakistan cricket to benefit from his experience and leadership.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has announced that the Joint Public Action Committee has responded positively to his proposal for establishing a Reconciliation Commission to help resolve the ongoing crisis in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). He said the committee’s response included several recommendations that would be carefully reviewed as part of the consultation process. In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Bilawal said he had received the committee’s formal reply regarding the proposed commission. According to him, the response reflects a willingness to consider an institutional mechanism that could help address the current situation through dialogue and consensus. Bilawal emphasized that his immediate priority is to help bring the ongoing crisis to an end, provide urgent relief to affected citizens, and restore normal life across Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He described every loss of life as a national tragedy and stressed the importance of finding a peaceful and sustainable solution through constructive engagement. The PPP chairman welcomed the committee’s readiness to move forward with the proposed Reconciliation Commission, saying it represents a positive step toward resolving outstanding issues. He added that the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has also endorsed the proposal, which he intends to examine in detail before further consultations. Bilawal said the next phase of the process would involve discussions with the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Following these consultations, the AJK leadership is expected to seek initial feedback from the federal government and other relevant stakeholders to determine whether there is sufficient common ground to advance a mutually agreed framework. According to Bilawal, broad-based consultation among all stakeholders is essential to ensure that any solution enjoys public confidence and contributes to lasting stability. He expressed hope that the proposed commission could provide a structured platform for dialogue while addressing the concerns of all parties involved. The development comes at a time when efforts are underway to reduce tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and restore normal public life. Bilawal reiterated that meaningful dialogue, cooperation, and timely relief for affected communities remain central to his approach. He expressed optimism that continued engagement between the committee, the AJK government, and federal authorities could pave the way for a consensus-based resolution to the crisis.