ppp pmln hold
| |

PPP, PML-N hold unity talks over AJK polls

Senior leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) held a high-level meeting in Muzaffarabad on Thursday to defuse growing political tensions over the ongoing Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections.

The meeting came after days of heated exchanges between the two coalition partners following the Mirpur election. The PPP had accused the electoral process of being marred by widespread irregularities and raised concerns over the credibility of the results.

According to sources, the talks were aimed at preventing the election dispute from affecting the working relationship between the two parties in the federal coalition government. The meeting was reportedly arranged after consultations at the federal level.

Some sources claimed that the initiative received support from both the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s Office. However, this could not be independently verified.

The PPP delegation included Qamar Zaman Kaira, Nadeem Afzal Chan, AJK Prime Minister Faisal Rathore and Nayyar Bukhari. They met with senior PML-N leaders Rana Sanaullah and Amir Muqam.

During the meeting, both sides openly discussed their concerns over statements made during the election campaign and after the announcement of the Mirpur results.

PML-N leaders asked the PPP to present evidence supporting its allegations of organised election rigging. In response, PPP leaders said their objections were limited to four constituencies — LA-5, LA-9, LA-11 and LA-12 — where they believe serious irregularities took place.

PML-N leaders argued that by restricting its objections to only four constituencies, the PPP had effectively accepted the results of the remaining nine seats. They noted that PML-N won five of those seats, while the PPP secured four.

After detailed discussions, both parties agreed that political tensions should not be allowed to escalate further. They also agreed that the dispute should not affect the remaining phases of the AJK elections.

The meeting also reviewed security arrangements for polling in the remaining constituencies, particularly in Muzaffarabad.

Both parties agreed that no individual should be allowed to carry weapons inside or around polling stations. They stressed that strict security measures were necessary to ensure peaceful, transparent and orderly polling.

Political observers view the meeting as the first major reconciliation effort by the two coalition partners to contain the election dispute

Similar Posts

  • | | |

    Iran defied plan to become ‘Venezuela’, says P…

    TEHRAN: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said his country is facing a difficult economic and military situation but has remained resilient, arguing that national unity prevented what he described as an attempt by Iran’s enemies to push the country towards a Venezuela-like crisis. Speaking at a ceremony, Pezeshkian said Iran was operating under what he called illegal wartime conditions while continuing efforts to provide services and support to its people. The president portrayed the country as facing simultaneous economic and security challenges, but said the Iranian public had remained united despite the pressure. According to Pezeshkian, Iran’s opponents wanted to see the country weakened and destabilised. He argued that the unity of the Iranian people had instead helped Iran emerge as a stronger force. “Today, we are in a state of economic and military war,” Pezeshkian said, while stressing that the government was continuing to work for citizens despite the difficult circumstances. His comments came as Tehran has faced intense pressure over its economic situation and wider confrontation with the United States and its allies. Pezeshkian said Iran’s adversaries had intended to turn the country into “Venezuela”, apparently referring to the severe economic and political difficulties that have affected Venezuela over the past decade. He claimed that the plan had failed because Iranians had maintained a united position in the face of the challenges. The president also referred to a memorandum of understanding reached amid the difficult circumstances. He said the agreement had been shaped by the country’s determination to protect its interests while seeking a way forward through diplomacy. According to Pezeshkian, experts had described the memorandum as being based on “prudence, dignity and wisdom”. He argued that those criticising the agreement did not fully understand the circumstances surrounding it. The remarks suggest that Iran’s leadership is attempting to present the agreement as a strategic decision rather than a concession under pressure. Pezeshkian’s comments also come against the backdrop of signals that Tehran may be seeking a way to end its confrontation with Washington from a position it considers strong. Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed that any diplomatic arrangement must protect the country’s national interests and sovereignty. For Pezeshkian, domestic unity remains central to navigating the crisis. He argued that despite economic hardship and military pressure, the country had avoided the collapse that its opponents allegedly expected. The president’s message was therefore aimed not only at Iran’s external rivals but also at domestic critics of the memorandum. As pressure on Iran continues, Tehran faces the difficult task of managing economic challenges while maintaining political cohesion and determining whether diplomacy can reduce tensions. Pezeshkian’s latest remarks underline his argument that Iran’s resilience, rather than isolation, will shape the next phase of the country’s confrontation with its adversaries.

  • | |

    Two suspects, who killed cops in Lahore. killed in…

      Two suspected criminals, identified as Fayyaz Butt and Rehan Butt, were killed during an exchange of fire with police in Sheikhupura. A case has been registered at Muridke Police Station in connection with the incident, according to police officials. According to the First Information Report (FIR), the two deceased suspects were allegedly involved in a previous attack in Lahore in which three police personnel were killed and three others were injured. The FIR includes charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act, possession of explosives, murder and attempted murder. The incident occurred after three armed suspects allegedly entered the house of a citizen identified as Abdul Hafeez. According to the FIR, the suspects took the family hostage at gunpoint after forcibly entering the residence. The FIR stated that Abdul Hafeez’s wife and their three children were among those held hostage by the armed men. The situation prompted police to launch an operation to secure the house and rescue the hostages. Police surrounded the house and announced that the suspects should lay down their weapons and surrender. However, according to the FIR, the suspects did not surrender and an exchange of gunfire subsequently took place between the police and the armed men. During the exchange of fire, the police vehicle was also damaged. Police personnel remained positioned around the house while attempting to control the situation and prevent the suspects from escaping. According to the details contained in the FIR, the firing eventually stopped. When police officers entered the premises and inspected the area, they found two bodies lying in the courtyard of the house. Weapons were also found near the bodies. The deceased suspects were subsequently identified as Fayyaz Butt and Rehan Butt. Police officials said the two suspects had allegedly fled from Lahore after the deadly attack on police personnel. The FIR registered in Muridke includes several serious charges, reflecting the nature of the allegations against the suspects. The charges include provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act, along with sections relating to murder, attempted murder and possession of explosive material. The case will now form part of the investigation into the suspects’ alleged activities and their involvement in the earlier Lahore incident. The hostage situation also raised concerns regarding the safety of the family inside the residence. According to the FIR, the police operation was carried out after the armed suspects allegedly took the family members hostage and refused to surrender. The authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the encounter, including the sequence of events leading to the exchange of fire and the deaths of the two suspects. The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies when dealing with armed suspects accused of serious crimes. Police personnel are required to respond quickly in such situations, particularly when civilians are being held hostage. Further details regarding the identities and alleged criminal backgrounds of the suspects, as well as the investigation into the Lahore attack, may emerge as authorities continue their inquiry. The case registered at Muridke Police Station will provide the legal basis for investigating the incident and the allegations against the deceased suspects. Police officials will also examine the weapons recovered from the scene and other available evidence to establish the exact circumstances of the encounter. Authorities have yet to provide further details regarding the condition of the hostages following the operation. The investigation is expected to determine the full sequence of events and establish the suspects’ alleged links to the earlier attack on police personnel in Lahore.

  • | |

    Pakistan keeps petrol and diesel prices unchanged …

    The Government of Pakistan has decided to keep petrol and diesel prices unchanged for the next two days after implementing fuel price increases over five consecutive days. The Petroleum Division of the Ministry of Energy issued an official notification confirming that current prices will remain in effect on July 26 and 27, 2026. According to the notification, the price of petrol will remain at Rs. 335.18 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) will continue to be sold at Rs. 383.46 per litre during the two-day period. The decision comes after a series of recent adjustments to petroleum prices under the government’s revised pricing mechanism. Authorities said no further changes would be made during the specified period, providing temporary stability for consumers following multiple increases. The latest notification confirms that the existing fuel rates announced on July 25 will remain effective through July 27. Officials from the Petroleum Division stated that the move is in line with the government’s current fuel pricing policy. Just a day earlier, the government had raised petrol prices by Rs. 3.66 per litre and high-speed diesel prices by Rs. 4.80 per litre. Those increases followed another hike in which petrol became Rs. 4.40 per litre more expensive and diesel increased by Rs. 3.62 per litre. Before the latest revisions, petrol was priced at Rs. 331.52 per litre, while high-speed diesel was available at Rs. 378.66 per litre on July 24. The recent adjustments reflect ongoing fluctuations in petroleum pricing driven by changes in international oil markets and domestic pricing policies. Fuel prices play a significant role in Pakistan’s economy, influencing transportation costs, industrial production, and the prices of essential goods and services. Any increase or decrease in petroleum prices has a direct impact on businesses and household budgets across the country. The government’s decision to maintain current prices for two days is expected to provide short-term certainty for consumers and businesses. However, future revisions will continue to depend on global oil prices, exchange rate movements, and the government’s fuel pricing framework. Motorists and businesses are advised to follow official announcements from the Petroleum Division for any future changes in fuel prices. The current notification confirms that petrol and diesel rates will remain unchanged until the end of July 27, unless a new directive is issued by the government.

  • |

    Kim Yo Jong warns Japan over expanding military power

    North Korea has issued a fresh warning to Japan, saying it could adopt new military measures in response to Tokyo’s growing defence capabilities. The statement came after Japan conducted a test of a US-made Tomahawk cruise missile, a move Pyongyang described as a serious security threat. Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, accused Japan of abandoning its traditional defensive military posture and moving toward offensive capabilities. In a statement released through North Korea’s state media, she claimed Tokyo is developing the ability to carry out pre-emptive strikes and military operations beyond its borders. She pointed to Japan’s recent Tomahawk missile launch from the Aegis destroyer Chokai in the Pacific Ocean, along with other missile tests and its participation in joint military exercises led by the United States in the Philippines earlier this year. Kim warned that North Korea would take additional military steps if Japan continued strengthening its armed forces. Although she did not specify what actions Pyongyang might take, she said Japan would face greater security risks as a consequence of its military expansion. The North Korean official also blamed the United States for supporting Japan’s military modernisation. She accused Washington of supplying Tomahawk missiles, upgrading Japanese naval vessels to operate the weapons, and backing missile tests, arguing that the US is encouraging policies that increase tensions in the region. According to Kim, Japan’s acquisition of long-range strike capabilities places North Korea and other neighbouring countries within potential missile range, raising concerns over regional stability. The latest remarks are part of a broader campaign by Pyongyang against growing security cooperation between the United States, Japan and South Korea. North Korean state media has repeatedly criticised joint military exercises and defence partnerships, describing them as provocative and a threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula. Regional analysts believe the statement is aimed at portraying Japan’s military modernisation as justification for North Korea’s continued weapons development. Experts also suggest the rhetoric could signal preparations for future military demonstrations, including missile launches or other strategic weapons tests, as Pyongyang seeks to reinforce its deterrence strategy amid rising regional tensions.

  • |

    Questions mount over funding as violence mars London Kashmir protest

    A protest held in central London in the name of solidarity with Kashmir has come under scrutiny following allegations over its funding and organisation, while reports of violence against a senior journalist have further fuelled controversy surrounding the demonstration. According to claims circulating among sections of the British Pakistani and Kashmiri community, around 50 coaches were arranged to transport participants from Bradford, Manchester and Birmingham to London. Some community members have alleged that the overall cost of the mobilisation exceeded £500,000 and have publicly questioned who financed the event, calling for greater transparency over its funding and logistics. Community sources further alleged that some families were offered a free day trip to London, including complimentary coach travel, to encourage participation in the demonstration. According to the sources, the offer attracted families who joined the trip. Allegations circulating on social media have also suggested that foreign elements including Indian agencies may have supported the protests through there frontmen’s Some members of the community further claimed that the number of British Pakistanis and Azad Kashmiris attending the protest was lower than expected, while participants from other communities appeared more visible. The demonstration was overshadowed by the alleged assault on senior Pakistani journalist Murtaza Ali Shah while he was covering the protest. Reports of the incident have drawn concern from journalists and media organisations, with calls for those responsible to be identified and held accountable. Witnesses also alleged that some protesters behaved aggressively towards members of the media, raising concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists covering public demonstrations. Media observers said any intimidation or violence against journalists undermines democratic values and damages the credibility of a protest. The protest took place amid continuing demonstrations by sections of the Kashmiri diaspora over developments in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. While organisers described the event as a show of solidarity with Kashmir, the allegations over funding, crowd mobilisation and the reported violence have shifted attention to the conduct and organisation of the demonstration. The organisers have not publicly responded to the allegations regarding the event’s funding, logistics or the reported assault on the journalist. Community representatives have called for full transparency over the financing of the protest and urged all parties to ensure that future demonstrations remain peaceful and respectful of media freedom.Organisers have rejected claims of Indian funding by saying there members contributed for the arrangements.

  • | | |

    12 militants killed in Balochistan intelligence op…

    Pakistan’s security forces killed 12 suspected militants during two intelligence-based operations carried out in separate districts of Balochistan as part of the ongoing counterterrorism campaign, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday. According to the military’s media wing, the operations were conducted on August 5 and 6 in Washuk and Mastung districts under the third phase of Operation Rad-ul-Fitna, which targets militant groups allegedly backed by hostile foreign elements. The ISPR said the first operation was launched on August 5 after intelligence agencies detected the movement of six suspected militants in Washuk district. Security forces swiftly moved to the area and engaged the suspects in a targeted operation. Following an exchange of fire, all six militants were killed. A second intelligence-based operation was conducted on August 6 in Mastung district after security forces received information about the presence of armed militants. The ISPR said another six suspected militants were killed during an intense firefight. Security personnel also destroyed a militant hideout during the operation. The military stated that both operations were based on credible intelligence and were part of continuous efforts to eliminate militant networks operating in Balochistan. It added that security forces carried out the missions with precision, preventing the militants from escaping. According to the ISPR, the operations form part of Pakistan’s broader counterterrorism strategy being implemented under Azm-e-Istehkam, the national security initiative approved by the Federal Apex Committee under the National Action Plan. The military reaffirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces, together with law enforcement agencies, will continue intelligence-led operations across the country to eliminate terrorism and dismantle militant infrastructure.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *