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NO INDIVIDUAL, HIS POLITICS, OR DESIRE FOR POWER ABOVE PAKISTAN: DG ISPR Saturday, 28 December, 2024 I 25 Jumada Al-Akhirah, 1446
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ACCOUNTABILITY PROCESS WILL NOT STOP UNTIL g REAFFIRMS PAKISTAN’S STANCE THAT PLANNERS OF MAY 9 RIOTS ARE HELD FULLY TERRORISM IN REGION CAN BE TRACED ACCOUNTABLE: LT-GEN AHMED SHARIF CH BACK TO SAFE HAVENS IN AFGHANISTAN g 925 TERRORISTS KILLED DURING 2024, MARKING HIGHEST NUMBER OF TERRORIST FATALITIES IN PAST FIVE YEARS: DG g
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RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
NTER-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said on Friday that those responsible for the planning of the violent protests on May 9 will face justice, asserting that the accountability process will not stop until the planners of the incidents are held fully accountable. Addressing a press conference in Rawalpindi, the DG ISPR spoke on range of issues including counter-terrorism operations in 2024, cross border terrorism and May 9 violent protests. The briefing comes amid growing security concerns, with a noticeable increase in attacks targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Addressing the presser, the military’s spokesperson underscored that no political leader’s desire for power should take precedence over the nation’s well-being. “We respect all political parties and their leadership,” ISPR spokesperson said in response to a question about the rumored backdoor discussions between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the military. “However, no individual, his politics, or his desire for power is above Pakistan,” he added firmly, emphasising the military’s commitment to the country’s interests over political maneuvering. He also welcomed the concept of dialogue among political factions to resolve differences. “It is encouraging that politi-
cians sit together and solve their problems through conversation,” he said, reflecting a positive stance on political engagement. ‘925 terrorists killed in 2024’ DG ISPR also outlined the Pakistan military’s efforts against terrorism, reporting a significant number of successful operations in 2024. He revealed that security forces had carried out a total of 59,775 operations this year, emphasising the significant sacrifices made by Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. He stated that these operations resulted in the death of 925 terrorists, including members of terrorist groups such as the khawarij, marking the highest number of terrorist fatalities in the past five years. Additionally, 73 highvalue targets, including some of the mostwanted terrorists, were eliminated during
the operations, DG ISPR said, adding that among those targeted was the leader of
Fitna al Khawarij, a prominent terrorist group based in Malakand Division.
ference, PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram emphasised that justice cannot be served by making decisions with preconceived notions and biases, as such decisions cannot be accepted as just. Waqas said that the power to punish or reward individuals lies solely with the judicial system, as mandated by the constitution, warning that allowing defense institutions to establish their own courts would have devastating consequences for the state’s justice system and the
constitutional framework as a whole. He noted that this was precisely why decisions delivered by independent constitutional courts were universally recognized and respected, whereas those made by military courts were not accepted anywhere in the world. Waqas asserted that the alarming decline in the state’s rational thinking, decision-making and overall governance has been the primary catalyst for the prevailing chaos and conflict plaguing the country.
ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has stressed the need for course correction and introspection because Pakistan and its 240 million people have been bearing the brunt of the state machinery’s wrong and misguided priorities for the long time and it is state responsibility to uphold justice and ensure fair play rather than resorting to intimidation, coercion and threat. Reacting to DG ISPR’s press con-
GARHI KHUDA BAKHSH STAFF REPORT
PESHAWAR
STAFF REPORT
Nation paying for ‘wrong priorities,’ PTI calls for immediate course correction
Bilawal calls for national unity against international conspiracies
Chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday called for unity among all political parties and stakeholders against international conspiracies. He made these remarks while addressing a public gathering in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh on the 17th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. The PPP Chairman emphasized the need for consensus in decision-making, stating that the PML-N-led government lacks the mandate to make unilateral decisions. Commenting on President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming aide, Richard Grenell’s statement on Imran Khan’s release, Bilawal said that PTI Founder is just an excuse, the real target is Pakistan’s nuclear programme. He warned that the country’s nuclear and missile programs are under threat, alleging that certain elements are working to undermine Pakistan’s interests. The PPP chairman questioned if they were the same elements who had previously issued statements in support of Israel and other anti-Pakistan forces. He also wondered if they were opposed to Pakistan’s nuclear program and the missile program initiated by his mother, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. He reiterated that his party would never allow any conspiracy against Pakistan’s interests to succeed. He vowed to resist any attempts to compromise the country’s sovereignty and security. Bilawal paid tribute to his mother, highlighting her 30year political struggle, which has become an integral part of history. He noted that Benazir never compromised on her ideology and was a champion of the vulnerable segments of society. The PPP and its supporters across the country are observing Benazir’s death anniversary with great devotion and respect. A main congregation was held in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, where President Asif Ali Zardari, central and provincial leaders, and other prominent figures addressed the gathering. Notable attendees included Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the first lady of Pakistan and central president of PPP’s Ladies Wing; Faryal Talpur, Asif’s sister and member of the provincial assembly; and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and other leaders were also present.
KP govt intensifies efforts for peace restoration in Kurram
PM asks Afghan govt to act against TTP, calling it a ‘red line’ ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif called the TTP’s terrorist actions within Pakistan from across the Afghanistan border intolerable and a red line, urging the Afghan interim government to take action against them. Addressing the federal cabinet, the prime minister said that the TTP is operating from Afghanistan and carrying out terror attacks and killing innocent people inside Pakistan. “This cannot go on. We have conveyed to the Afghan government that we
desire good ties with them but TTP should be stopped from killing our innocent people. This
PM directs uninterrupted gas supply to domestic consumers during winter PROFIT APP
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday took notice of complaints from domestic consumers about a shortage of gas supply and directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted provision of gas during the winter season. Chairing a meeting to review the nationwide gas supply situation, the prime minister emphasized the need for systemic reforms to address the issue permanently. “Providing gas to domestic consumers is the government’s top priority,” he said. During the briefing, officials informed the meeting that surplus
RLNG (Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas) in the system has resulted in improved gas load management compared to the previous year. It was noted that gas load-shedding durations this year were shorter than last year. Gas is being supplied to domestic consumers from 5 AM to 10 PM daily, while sufficient gas is also being allocated to the power sector based on its demand, the meeting was told. It was further highlighted that online complaint dashboards managed by SNGPL and SSGC were operational, with a resolution rate of 93% for SNGPL and 79% for SSGC. Additionally, all gas fields in the country are currently active.
is a red line. TTP operating from there against Pakistan is unacceptable,” PM Shehbaz said. The prime minister said that Afghanistan is a neighboring nation with a common border spanning thousands of kilometers “We want friendly relations with each other and collaboration in the economy, trade, and other areas.” He said that Pakistan is ready to discuss the matter with the Afghan administration, asking them to come up with a sound plan. He said that the strategy of discussions and permitting the TTP to operate against Pakistan cannot coexist. PM Shehbaz said that Pakistan’s law enforcement and military personnel are always prepared to maintain the peace and security of the nation. In operations in North Waziristan on Thursday, an army major was slain, and 16 FC soldiers were killed. The forces also killed a number of terrorists. Earlier, a Pakistan Army sepoy embraced martyrdom as security forces thwarted an infiltration attempt at the Pak-Afghan border, killing four terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to resolving the ongoing issues in Kurram, emphasizing efforts to find a peaceful solution for the region’s residents facing severe challenges. In a statement, the Chief Minister acknowledged the difficulties endured by the citizens of Kurram and assured them that the government is utilizing all available resources to alleviate their hardships. “We are fully aware of the challenges faced by the people of Kurram, and we are working diligently to bring an end to their suffering,” Gandapur said. “Our goal is to find a peaceful resolution to the Kurram issue and ensure the well-being of its residents.” In response to the road closures in Kurram, the provincial government has launched a helicopter service to provide essential support and transport for those affected. This initiative was implemented under the direct instructions of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to facilitate the movement of people and supplies while land routes remain blocked. So far, the government’s MI-17 helicopter has completed six flights, providing air transport for 145 people, including children, women, students, and patients. Additionally, the service has facilitated the transfer of critical supplies such as milk packets for children. The first flight transported 29 people from Peshawar to Parachinar, while 31 people were brought from Parachinar to Kohat in the second flight. The third helicopter mission transported 10 individuals and one deceased body from Kohat to Parachinar. The fourth flight carried 31 people from Parachinar to Kohat, while the fifth flight moved five people from Kohat to Parachinar. The sixth and final flight brought 39 people, including eight children, from Parachinar to Peshawar. The government has also delivered approximately 10 tons of medicines to Kurram through the helicopter service, ensuring that vital medical supplies reach the region during this critical period. The service will continue until the land routes to Kurram are reopened. A spokesperson for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government confirmed that a total of 613 individuals, including residents, jirga members, and other vulnerable individuals, have been provided air transport services so far. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government is determined to bring relief to the region and resolve the challenges faced by Kurram’s residents. “Our efforts aim to ensure peace and stability in Kurram, allowing its people to return to normalcy and rebuild their lives,” Gandapur said.
IHC informed missing Muzaffarabad man facing military trial ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
A missing person from Muzaffarabad, identified as Muddasir Hussain Khan, has been traced and is currently facing trial in a military court, as informed by the Ministry of Defence to the Islamabad High Court. IHC’s Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani directed the Ministry of Defense to arrange a meeting between the detained citizen, Mudassir Khan, and his family in accordance with the law. Imaan Mazari advocate represented petitioner Nazima Fatehyab in the court while assistant attorney general and Defence Ministry’s Brig Falak Naz appeared in the court. According to the report submitted by the Ministry of Defence, Mudassir Khan, a resident of Muzaffarabad, went missing in March 2024 and is currently facing trial in a military court. The ministry informed the court that Mudassar Hussain Khan, who has been missing since March 2024 from Muzaffarabad, has been found. “Mudassar is an undertrial accused undergoing a trial in a military court,” the Ministry added. During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer requested the court to grant a meeting between Mudassir Khan and his family. The court, after considering the request, directed the Ministry of Defense to arrange a meeting between Mudassir Khan and his family, as per the law. The hearing was adjourned until further notice.
PSX rallies strongly, KSE-100 index surges by almost thousand points g
MARKET REBOUNDS AS INVESTORS ENGAGE IN VALUE BUYING PROFIT
NEWS DESK
After days of persistent selling pressure, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) staged a robust recovery on Friday, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index closing significantly higher at 111,351.17, gaining 927.85 points or 0.84%. The rally, which picked up momentum during the second half of the session, saw the index rise by over 1,500 points at one point, driven by renewed buying interest in
key sectors. Automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies, OMCs, power generation, and refineries led the charge. Notable gainers included heavyweights such as HUBCO, PSO, SHEL, SNGP, MARI, OGDC, PPL, MEBL, MCB, and NBP, which traded firmly in the green, contributing to the market’s recovery. The sharp rebound came as investors engaged in value picking following heavy losses earlier in the week. On Thursday, the KSE-100 Index had plunged 1,991.49
points, or 1.77%, to close at 110,423.32 due to concerns over border security and yearend portfolio adjustments. As 2024 draws to a close, attention is shifting to 2025, with global markets closely watching the Federal Reserve’s expected policy measures, geopolitical developments, and trade strategies. Traders anticipate measured interest rate cuts from the Fed, with easing likely to begin by mid-2025. The PSX’s recovery on Friday signals renewed investor confidence, setting a positive tone for the final days of the trading year.