khwaja asif says
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Khwaja Asif says Mohsin Naqvi is government’s mo…

ByJustpaste.in

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stirred fresh political debate after claiming that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is the most powerful minister in the federal government and, in several matters, is not even answerable to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Speaking during a television interview on Monday, Asif delivered unusually candid remarks about Naqvi’s role in the current administration, suggesting that the interior minister operates outside the conventional framework of the federal cabinet.

According to Asif, Naqvi has remained largely absent from the government’s routine decision-making process despite holding one of the country’s most influential portfolios. He said he had seen the interior minister attend only “two or three” cabinet meetings since the government took office.

The defence minister also questioned Naqvi’s parliamentary presence, claiming the interior minister had appeared in Parliament only seven or eight times. He suggested that if a minister with such influence was publicly expressing dissatisfaction with the existing governance structure, it reflected poorly on the entire government.

“If Mohsin Naqvi himself is complaining about the system, then perhaps we should simply go home,” Asif remarked, underscoring what he described as deep institutional weaknesses.

His comments came in response to Naqvi’s recent statement warning that Pakistan’s current administrative structure had become too weak to effectively address the country’s long-standing challenges.

The interior minister had argued that if the existing governance model continued unchanged, Pakistan could still be facing the same problems a decade from now. He maintained that creating new administrative units or provinces had become essential for improving governance, accelerating development and delivering public services more efficiently.

Naqvi said the existing system had outlived its usefulness and was no longer capable of resolving the country’s growing administrative and governance issues.

Asif’s remarks have added a new dimension to the ongoing debate over institutional reforms and the balance of power within the federal government. His observations also highlight differing perspectives within the ruling coalition on how Pakistan’s governance challenges should be addressed.

The exchange between the two senior ministers is likely to fuel further political discussion, particularly over proposals to create new provinces and reform the country’s administrative framework—an issue that has periodically resurfaced in Pakistan’s political discourse but has remained politically contentious for years.

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    Weak bureaucracy lies at heart of governance crisi…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Recent remarks by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who said that Pakistan’s governance system has “collapsed,” have once again sparked debate over the country’s administrative failures. However, the real issue goes far beyond the number of provinces or administrative units and cannot be attributed solely to a lack of political will at the highest level. The core problem, according to the analysis, is the gradual weakening of Pakistan’s civil administrative structure, which has steadily lost its ability to govern effectively over the past several decades. Instead of identifying this institutional failure, the minister’s comments appear to focus on the symptoms of the crisis rather than its root causes. The repeated reliance on extraordinary measures, task forces, and parallel administrative structures itself reflects the inability of the regular civil bureaucracy to perform its responsibilities efficiently. Under the leadership of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir,the military leadership has consistently emphasized economic revival, action against organized mafias, and restoring investor confidence. The establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) also emerged as a response to the inability of the civil bureaucracy to deliver timely economic solutions. However, such initiatives cannot permanently replace an efficient civilian administrative system. The governance crisis stems from the persistent decline in the effectiveness of Pakistan’s civil bureaucracy across the federation, provinces, divisions, and districts. Political interference, weak accountability, and poor human resource management have significantly undermined its performance. Punjab is often cited as a partial exception, where relatively limited political interference in routine administration has enabled the bureaucracy to function more effectively. This reinforces the argument that sustainable governance depends on institutional autonomy and merit-based administration rather than temporary or emergency arrangements. Governance experts have long advocated restoring the Establishment Division at the federal level and the Services and General Administration Departments (S&GADs) in the provinces to their original role as independent institutions responsible for managing human resources. Their objective is to ensure that appointments, promotions, and career planning remain protected from political influence and external pressure. The analysis further argues that Pakistan’s civil service should adopt a structured personnel management system similar to the military’s Military Secretary Branch at General Headquarters (GHQ), where recruitment, promotions, training, and career progression are managed through institutional discipline based on merit and performance rather than political considerations. The military’s internal human resource management system is often regarded as organized, merit-based, and largely insulated from political interference. In contrast, the civil Establishment Division is frequently viewed as a bureaucratic office where transfers and appointments are influenced by political lobbying, personal connections, and pressure from powerful groups instead of institutional needs. These practices have produced long-term consequences. Civil servants are often assigned to positions unrelated to their expertise, career planning remains weak or absent, and accountability mechanisms continue to be inconsistent and ineffective. As a result, governance across various sectors has suffered. The report notes that these shortcomings have been identified repeatedly over the years. More than 20 commissions and reform committees have reviewed Pakistan’s civil service structure during the country’s history. Between 1996 and 2008 alone, at least six major studies highlighted the same concerns, including politicization of the bureaucracy, the absence of merit-based appointments, and weak institutional management of human resources. Despite these findings, most recommendations were never implemented. Successive governments, whether civilian or military, have shown little willingness to reduce their influence over administrative appointments and transfers. Consequently, repeated attempts at civil service reform have failed to produce lasting institutional change. The analysis concludes that Pakistan’s governance crisis is not the result of a failure to identify the problem but rather a lack of political commitment to implementing meaningful institutional reforms. In this context, Mohsin Naqvi’s recent remarks do not fully address the deeper structural weaknesses within the state. The central issue is not merely that the system has collapsed, but that the country’s primary administrative engine—the civil bureaucracy—has been allowed to deteriorate without comprehensive reform. The proposed solution is not the creation of additional provinces but the rebuilding of the civil administrative system on the principles of merit, protection from political interference, and professional career management comparable to the military’s administrative framework.

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    Weekly inflation rises 0.15% in second week of August

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Weekly inflation increased by 0.15% during the second week of August 2026, pushing the year-on-year inflation rate to 9.11%, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The weekly Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), which tracks changes in the prices of essential consumer goods, showed a mixed trend during the week. Prices of several food and household items increased, while consumers received some relief from lower prices of petroleum products and selected food commodities. According to the PBS report, prices of 20 out of 51 essential commodities increased during the week under review, while prices of nine items declined. The prices of the remaining 22 commodities remained unchanged. Onion prices surge sharply Among the major price increases, onions recorded the most significant weekly jump, becoming 24.68% more expensive compared with the previous week. The increase is likely to add further pressure on household food budgets, particularly for low-income consumers who are more exposed to fluctuations in basic food prices. The price of gram pulse increased by 3.35%, while chicken became 2.45% more expensive during the week. LPG prices also edged up by 0.67%. Other commodities that recorded weekly price increases included tea, mustard oil, yoghurt and masoor pulse, adding to the overall upward movement in the weekly inflation indicator. Petroleum prices provide some relief The weekly inflation reading was partly offset by declines in the prices of petroleum and several food items. Petrol prices decreased by 2.35% during the week, providing some relief to consumers and transport users. Tomato prices fell by 1.26%, while potatoes became 0.73% cheaper. Diesel prices also declined, though marginally, by 0.29%. Prices of bananas, moong pulse, eggs and sugar also recorded weekly decreases. Despite these reductions, the increase in the prices of several essential food items, particularly onions, pulses and chicken, kept overall weekly inflation in positive territory. Food prices remain major source of annual pressure The year-on-year comparison presents a more pronounced picture of price pressures in several essential commodities. Tomatoes recorded the largest annual increase, with prices rising by 143.77% compared with the same period last year. Onion prices were 125.75% higher, while wheat flour became 77.41% more expensive. LPG prices increased by 55.41% on an annual basis, while diesel recorded a 34.05% increase. Petrol prices were also 23.02% higher than a year earlier. The sharp annual increases in basic food items indicate that consumers continue to face significant pressure in meeting everyday household expenses, even though some commodities have become cheaper compared with last year. Several commodities become cheaper annually The annual data also showed declines in the prices of a number of commodities. Potato prices dropped by 30% compared with a year earlier, marking the largest annual decline among the commodities listed in the report. Sugar prices fell by 17.93%, while chicken became 17.45% cheaper on an annual basis. Gram pulse, eggs and moong pulse also recorded year-on-year declines. The contrasting movements highlight the uneven nature of inflation, with some essential commodities witnessing substantial annual increases while others have recorded notable reductions. The latest PBS figures suggest that although overall inflation remains elevated, price movements continue to vary considerably across different categories. Food, energy and other essential commodities remain key factors influencing household expenditure and the broader cost-of-living situation.

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    Roads sealed around Karachi Press Club ahead of PT…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Several roads surrounding the Karachi Press Club were closed on Wednesday as authorities implemented security measures ahead of a possible protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), causing traffic congestion in nearby areas. According to traffic police, the closures have led to increased vehicle movement on surrounding roads as commuters seek alternate routes. Officials said the diversions were introduced to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and minimise disruption during the expected demonstration. Traffic coming from MR Kiani Chowrangi has been redirected towards Thana Gali, while vehicles approaching Fawara Chowk are being diverted to Aiwan-e-Sadr Road and Zainab Market. Authorities have also rerouted traffic from the Coast Guard area towards the lane leading to the Passport Office to ease congestion around the Press Club. Traffic police have advised motorists to follow the designated diversion plans and cooperate with officials on duty to avoid delays. The precautionary measures come amid expectations of a PTI protest in the city, with law enforcement agencies maintaining heightened security in and around the area to ensure public safety and maintain order.

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    Fire breaks out at warehouse near Karachi’s Sher…

    ByJustpaste.in

      KARACHI: A fire broke out at a warehouse near Shershah in Karachi West, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the scene and begin efforts to bring the blaze under control. According to Rescue 1122, its teams were immediately dispatched to the affected area after receiving information about the incident. Rescue personnel are currently engaged in firefighting operations and are working to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings and commercial establishments. The fire reportedly erupted at a warehouse located in the vicinity of Shershah, an area known for its busy commercial and industrial activities. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, while officials have not immediately provided details regarding the extent of the damage or whether anyone was injured. Rescue 1122 officials said their teams were actively working at the site to control the flames. Firefighters are using emergency equipment to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the warehouse or surrounding properties. The incident has raised concerns because warehouse fires can spread rapidly, particularly when buildings contain combustible materials, packaging, chemicals or other flammable goods. Such fires can also generate thick smoke, making firefighting operations more difficult and creating risks for people living or working nearby. Emergency personnel have been focusing on bringing the situation under control while assessing the conditions inside and around the affected warehouse. Authorities may also inspect the premises after the fire is extinguished to determine how the incident started and whether safety regulations were being followed. The Shershah area is one of Karachi’s important commercial zones, with numerous warehouses, workshops, markets and businesses operating in and around the locality. A fire in such an area can potentially affect surrounding businesses and disrupt traffic and commercial activity. Residents and workers in the vicinity have been Fire breaks out at warehouse near Karachi’s Shershah area KARACHI: A fire broke out at a warehouse near Shershah in Karachi West, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the scene and begin efforts to bring the blaze under control. According to Rescue 1122, its teams were immediately dispatched to the affected area after receiving information about the incident. Rescue personnel are currently engaged in firefighting operations and are working to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings and commercial establishments. The fire reportedly erupted at a warehouse located in the vicinity of Shershah, an area known for its busy commercial and industrial activities. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, while officials have not immediately provided details regarding the extent of the damage or whether anyone was injured. Rescue 1122 officials said their teams were actively working at the site to control the flames. Firefighters are using emergency equipment to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the warehouse or surrounding properties. The incident has raised concerns because warehouse fires can spread rapidly, particularly when buildings contain combustible materials, packaging, chemicals or other flammable goods. Such fires can also generate thick smoke, making firefighting operations more difficult and creating risks for people living or working nearby. Emergency personnel have been focusing on bringing the situation under control while assessing the conditions inside and around the affected warehouse. Authorities may also inspect the premises after the fire is extinguished to determine how the incident started and whether safety regulations were being followed. The Shershah area is one of Karachi’s important commercial zones, with numerous warehouses, workshops, markets and businesses operating in and around the locality. A fire in such an area can potentially affect surrounding businesses and disrupt traffic and commercial activity. Residents and workers in the vicinity have been advised to remain cautious and avoid approaching the affected location unnecessarily. Keeping roads and access routes clear is particularly important during emergency operations because firefighting vehicles and rescue teams need sufficient space to reach the site and carry out their work. At the time of the initial report, there were no confirmed details regarding casualties or the financial losses caused by the fire. Officials are expected to provide further information once firefighting operations are completed and the situation is assessed. The incident once again highlights the importance of fire safety measures at warehouses and commercial facilities. Proper storage of combustible materials, functional fire extinguishing systems, emergency exits and regular safety inspections can help reduce the risk of major fires and limit damage when accidents occur. Rescue 1122 teams remain engaged in firefighting efforts, while further details about the cause of the blaze, possible injuries and property damage are awaited. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident after the fire has been brought under control. The investigation will help determine whether the fire was caused by an electrical fault, an equipment malfunction, negligence or another factor. For now, emergency teams are concentrating on their immediate priority: extinguishing the fire, protecting nearby properties and ensuring the safety of people in the surrounding area. Further updates are expected as officials assess the situation and complete their operations. to remain cautious and avoid approaching the affected location unnecessarily. Keeping roads and access routes clear is particularly important during emergency operations because firefighting vehicles and rescue teams need sufficient space to reach the site and carry out their work. At the time of the initial report, there were no confirmed details regarding casualties or the financial losses caused by the fire. Officials are expected to provide further information once firefighting operations are completed and the situation is assessed. The incident once again highlights the importance of fire safety measures at warehouses and commercial facilities. Proper storage of combustible materials, functional fire extinguishing systems, emergency exits and regular safety inspections can help reduce the risk of major fires and limit damage when accidents occur. Rescue 1122 teams remain engaged in firefighting efforts, while further details about the cause of the blaze, possible injuries and property damage are awaited. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident after the fire has been brought under control. The investigation

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    Saudi Arabia forms 14-nation maritime defence alliance

    ByJustpaste.in

    RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has announced the formation of a new multinational maritime defence alliance with 13 other countries to strengthen security along some of the world’s busiest shipping routes amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The Saudi Ministry of Defence said the coalition has been created to protect freedom of navigation through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These waterways are critical for global trade and international energy supplies. The new alliance includes Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, Djibouti, Somalia, Bangladesh, Yemen, Sudan and the Comoros. According to Saudi authorities, representatives from 43 of the 51 invited countries attended the meeting that led to the creation of the alliance. A delegation from the European Union also participated in the discussions. The ministry said the coalition aims to improve coordination among member states to address growing maritime security challenges. It will focus on intelligence sharing, joint operational planning, military exercises and coordinated maritime operations. Saudi officials stressed that the alliance is purely defensive and is not intended to target any country. They said its primary objective is to secure international shipping lanes and ensure the uninterrupted flow of global trade. The announcement comes as security concerns continue to grow across the region due to escalating tensions involving Iran and attacks on commercial vessels in strategic waterways. The Bab al-Mandeb Strait has become increasingly important for international shipping. It connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a vital link between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. Experts estimate that around 10 to 12 percent of global maritime trade passes through the narrow waterway every year. Millions of barrels of crude oil and petroleum products are transported through the route daily, making it one of the world’s most strategically important sea lanes. Saudi Arabia has increasingly relied on the Red Sea route for oil exports through its East-West pipeline, which transports crude from the country’s eastern oil fields to the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea coast. However, ships departing from Yanbu must still pass through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait before reaching international markets. Regional instability has increased concerns over the safety of commercial shipping. Repeated attacks on vessels operating in the Red Sea have disrupted maritime traffic and raised fears of higher transportation costs and energy prices.

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    Mir Raza case takes new turn, SSP inspects death s…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Karachi: The investigation into the death of Mir Raza Ali took a fresh turn on Tuesday as SSP Ali Raza, a member of the newly formed investigation team, visited the location where the deceased was found. Mir Raza’s family members accompanied the SSP during the visit, where he examined the site in Gulistan-e-Johar and reviewed the spot where the body had been recovered. He also questioned the gardener who had discovered the body to obtain details about the circumstances in which it was found. Meanwhile, six samples have been received by the University of Karachi laboratory for DNA testing. Sources said four of the samples were collected from Mir Raza’s body, while two were reference samples from his parents. The laboratory is expected to release the DNA results as soon as possible. The investigation gained further significance following the emergence of an initial medical report after Mir Raza’s exhumation and post-mortem on August 8. The report reportedly identified multiple signs of injuries and possible violence on his body. According to the preliminary findings, the bullet wound was smaller on the back and larger on the front, indicating that the bullet may have entered from behind. The report also noted fractured ribs, several injuries to the head and face, and a fracture and wound measuring around 12 centimetres on the right thigh. Blood traces were also reportedly found in the tissues of the lower part of the body, raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding Mir Raza’s death. The DNA results and ongoing investigation are expected to provide further clarity on the case.

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