In a contentious debate surrounding the environmental impact of recent general elections in Pakistan, activists advocating for environmental preservation have alleged that a staggering 49,600 trees were cut down to produce paper for ballots and related documents. However, experts have rebuffed these claims, citing the country’s reliance on paper imports and recycling practices for electoral materials. Contrary to assertions of…
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The Cabinet Committee on Privatisation (CCoP) has initiated steps to seek legal counsel regarding the proposed transfer of Oil & Gas Development Co. Ltd. (OGDCL) shares currently held by the Privatisation Commission (PC). This move comes as part of a broader strategy to determine the appropriate recipient for these shares, whether the Petroleum Division or the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF).…
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In a bipartisan call for vigilance, several United States lawmakers have advised the Biden administration to refrain from recognizing the recent election results in Pakistan until alleged irregularities are thoroughly investigated. This stance, echoed by members from both sides of the aisle, underscores concerns about potential interference and fraud in the electoral process. The US State Department’s spokesperson emphasized the…
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The Executive Committee of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has issued directives to the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) to expedite the competitive bidding process for 300 MW of category-III wind projects within a week. This move comes as part of efforts to enhance Pakistan’s renewable energy sector and reduce dependency on imported fuels. While category-III solar projects…
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The caretaker government in Pakistan has issued directives to the Power Division to amend the outdated National Electricity Act of 1910 in order to align with the evolving dynamics of the power sector. The aim is to facilitate the introduction of a competitive electricity market, primarily through the implementation of wheeling charges, to enable private consumers to directly access electricity…
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In a significant move reflecting its commitment to addressing climate change, British bank Barclays announced on Friday that it would no longer provide direct financing for new oil and gas projects. However, despite this shift, the bank faced criticism from campaigners who argued that the measures did not go far enough. As part of its updated climate strategy, Barclays stated…
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The international community has raised concerns over the integrity of Pakistan’s recent elections, with prominent figures and organizations expressing apprehensions about alleged irregularities and restrictions that marred the electoral process. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed worry over the suspension of mobile communications services and instances of violence during the election day in Pakistan. While urging political leaders and society segments…
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The US State Department has voiced its apprehension regarding allegations of interference in Pakistan’s electoral process. In a statement issued by spokesperson Matthew Miller, the US has aligned itself with international and local election observers, highlighting concerns about undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly during the recent elections. The statement unequivocally condemns electoral violence and the…
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In a significant address delivered today, the Army chief of Pakistan issued a compelling call for unity and stability in the nation’s political sphere. With a backdrop of ongoing challenges and divisions, the Army chief emphasized the urgent need for a unified government that represents the diverse polity and pluralism of Pakistan. Under the banner of the Inter-Services Public Relations…
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