The rise of the Taliban, the fall of Karachi
In the national interestMonday, March 30, 2009Kamal Siddiqi. The writer is editor reporting, The NewsEarlier this week, a family friend got off from her car and walked to a chemist’s shop in a busy shopping area of Karachi. She was wearing a normal shalwar- kameez suit that most Karachi women wear in public areas. Nothing out of the ordinary. As she walked to the shop, a man approached her and showed her a pistol.But instead of robbing her, he gave her a chilling message: “Next time you come in public, cover yourself from head to toe.” This happened in full public view on a busy Karachi street. But no one seemed to notice and the man did not in any way seem in any hurry or worry.
The reference of this incident happening to a family friend has only been done to make people understand that this is not an urban myth but a reality. It is happening in Karachi, the country’s largest and possibly most open city. There are more worrisome incidents than one can recall.Many businessmen have received calls on their cell phones in which the caller does not identify himself but does confirm the name of the person he has called. After a couple of days comes another call. And then another. The businessman is told to contribute a certain amount to the Tehreek-e-Taliban.
One businessman shrugged this off as a hoax. But soon enough there were men who called at his house and made the same demand, only this time they also mentioned that they not only knew where he lived, but where he worked, which schools his children went to, and other details.The man ended up paying. No one knows who these people are. Some say they are criminals who are using the name of the Taliban.
Who knows?A family in Clifton last month received a notice which was addressed to the father. In it, he was told to ensure that his daughters — who were described in the letter in very negative terms — should be told to stay home since they were seen to be of loose character. The letter warned the father to take action, otherwise the mosque will have to “do something.” The crime of these girls apparently was that they were seen too frequently moving around and that too in Western clothes.
The writers of this threatening letter even disclosed their identity. The claimed to be from a prominent mosque, situated in the market area of Clifton. The shaken family did as they were told. Many families have received such letters and in most instances they have complied. No action or questions have been asked of the people at this mosque. The police shrugs this off as nothing important.Last year, this mosque was identified by the MQM when it made an outcry on the rise in Talibanisation in Karachi. But the People’s Party government has been denying the rise of extremist forces in Karachi for the year since it has been in power. Some say that the motives of the MQM are suspect. Their agenda is more political. But then again, who is right and who is wrong?Stories continue to surface of the growing influence of such elements. Women who travel without their heads covered in public transport have been spat upon. In some instances by other women.
The media has helped confuse the people even more. Programmes aired by our leading channels on religious issues sometimes misguide instead of guide. They play on the sentiments of people only to get better ratings. After all, one of the most prominent religious show hosts ended up becoming a minister.
The tragedy, if one may call it that, is that there is a growing number of people in Karachi who welcome the arrival of the purveyors of quick and cheap justice. And are willing to defend, fund and shelter them. They sympathise with the soldiers of their brand of Islam because the government has let them down. And they are frustrated over the growing incidents of crime and lawlessness and have no hope in the government addressing these issues. Both the military junta and the elected peoples representatives are seen more interested in protecting and enriching themselves than providing good governance to the people. This is the public perception.
Two video clips that have been circulating on the Internet only add to people’s fear and plays on their insecurity. One clip, which is perhaps one of the most watched and forwarded clips in Pakistan this week, shows how a man is mugged while he is taking money out of an ATM in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi.The clip, which was taken off a security camera of the bank, clearly shows the face of the man, the two men who rob him and the look of frustration and helplessness on the victim’s face once the deed is done. While there is no violence, except where the robber shows the poor man a gun and then hides it, it leaves one disturbed and it is chilling for anyone who has any care for Pakistan. Is this what we have been reduced to, and where do we go from here?
The other clip, which has not been seen by as many people, is violent and much more chilling. This clip was made from a mobile phone by the accomplice of a man who is currently in police custody. This is now known as the “Hajiano case” or the “White Corolla case.” This man robbed people and raped women at will for a year. This clip relates to one incident where a woman is being assaulted.
The clip numbs the brain and makes one bay for blood. After seeing this video, people have said that an exemplary punishment should be given to the perpetrator. One hopes this is done, but there are many who have expressed fears that the case will soon be forgotten. The women’s rights organisations which had earlier come out on the streets now seem to have been lulled into silence. Let us hope for justice. There are some who say that this matter would have been settled had the Taliban been in charge.These are worrisome sentiments. In his speech this week, President Obama has committed more money to Pakistan to crush Al-Qaeda. He said in his speech that the Al-Qaeda and its extremist allies (like the Taliban) are a cancer that risks killing Pakistan from within. The problem is that many Pakistanis do not see it like that anymore.
To defeat extremist elements, the US and Pakistan have to do more than pump in more military and economic assistance which never reaches the common man. There is a larger battle, for the hearts and minds of the people of Pakistan, which needs to be fought. This is not being done.We do not want any more VOA-TV type propaganda that, in its condescending way creates more enemies then friends. We want a proper dialogue with the US and the West over what its goals are and whether these are our goals as well. Whether we like it or not, the battle for a safer America cannot be won if the people of Pakistan are not convinced. This is the stark reality, no matter how many drone attacks are carried out on the one hand and assistance is given to our government on the other.
It was true of the Musharraf government and is becoming increasingly true of the Zardari government too. The people of Pakistan are not seen as stakeholders in the battle against militants and extremism. It is too often said that while the West talks to our leaders, Al Qaeda and the Taliban talk to the people. Sadly, this is an issue President Obama has not addressed.
Email: kamal.siddiqi@thenews.com.pk
Monday, March 30, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Houston-Karachi sister cities agreement signed
Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal and Mayor of US city Houston Bill White signed a sister cities agreement at the City Council Hall of Houston. Karachi has become the 17th city of the world which has entered into sister cities relationship with Houston.On this occasion Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal said that Karachi is the face of Pakistan and Karachi is the biggest city of the Muslim Ummah and today we as well as the whole Muslim Ummah are the biggest victim of our own bad perception, our marketing all over the world from the Muslim community as well as from Pakistan had been very poor and we must accept that and we are getting this opportunity by formally engaging with Houston and we will be sharing each and every deed of ours and the world would get a chance to evaluate us as Pakistan and as a Muslim.
He said that for him it is not just a binding relation between two cities but he is looking beyond the wall and this is the long way and this is the huge vision behind this whole progress. Nazim Karachi said that this is very important for us that we are becoming the front line city of the Muslim Ummah for this part of world to show who we are, what we do, what is our mentality and what are the good deeds that we have done so far for human beings. He said that through Karachi this part of the world would know Pakistan and the good deeds of the Muslim Ummah, Muslim cities and Muslim countries as Karachi represents all district governments in Pakistan.
Nazim Karachi said that although this is not the prime job of any district government to market Karachi and Pakistan as the Government of Pakistan has foreign offices all over the world but instead of waiting for that we have come to this part of the world for showing our deeds and for showing Karachi. And showing the good deeds of Pakistani administration and Karachi administration.
He thanked Mayor of Houston City Bill White, his whole team, the people of Houston and especially cited the name of M.J Khan, the president of Houston Karachi Sister Cities Association for being the very vital player in this whole process.Nazim Karachi said that on behalf of the 18 million people of Karachi and on behalf of the people of Pakistan and on behalf of all districts of Pakistan I thank you all for giving me this opportunity.
He said that it is indeed a great historical moment and it would not have been possible had the mayor of Houston and all his team not taken all these initiatives and pursued this case.—Agency
He said that for him it is not just a binding relation between two cities but he is looking beyond the wall and this is the long way and this is the huge vision behind this whole progress. Nazim Karachi said that this is very important for us that we are becoming the front line city of the Muslim Ummah for this part of world to show who we are, what we do, what is our mentality and what are the good deeds that we have done so far for human beings. He said that through Karachi this part of the world would know Pakistan and the good deeds of the Muslim Ummah, Muslim cities and Muslim countries as Karachi represents all district governments in Pakistan.
Nazim Karachi said that although this is not the prime job of any district government to market Karachi and Pakistan as the Government of Pakistan has foreign offices all over the world but instead of waiting for that we have come to this part of the world for showing our deeds and for showing Karachi. And showing the good deeds of Pakistani administration and Karachi administration.
He thanked Mayor of Houston City Bill White, his whole team, the people of Houston and especially cited the name of M.J Khan, the president of Houston Karachi Sister Cities Association for being the very vital player in this whole process.Nazim Karachi said that on behalf of the 18 million people of Karachi and on behalf of the people of Pakistan and on behalf of all districts of Pakistan I thank you all for giving me this opportunity.
He said that it is indeed a great historical moment and it would not have been possible had the mayor of Houston and all his team not taken all these initiatives and pursued this case.—Agency
Pakistan politicians arrested ahead of protest rally
Pakistan has arrested hundreds of opposition political activists in an overnight sweep before a planned protest rally, as a looming political showdown presents the most serious challenge yet to the year-old government.
Most of those arrested belong to the popular Pakistan Muslim League (N) led by Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister, and Tehrik-e-Insaf, the party led by Imran Khan, the former cricket captain.
A senior politician in the Pakistan Muslim League (N), Raja Zafarul Haq, was placed under house arrest and this morning police were hunting for Imran Khan. Scores of other MPs and lawyers have gone into hiding to avoid detention.
A ban has been placed on public gatherings across the country and heavy contingents of police and paramilitary troops sealed off the capital Islamabad where opposition parties and lawyers plan to stage a sit-in outside the parliament building on Friday.
Police clashed with demonstrators in many cities in eastern Punjab province, who defied the Government’s ban. They fired tear gas on protesters in Multan city and arrested several protesters. In Lahore, the capital of Punjab province and Mr Sharif's political heartland, police confirmed further arrests.
The protests were called by lawyers against the decision of President Asif Ali Zardari’s Government not to restore Iftikhar Chaudhry, the chief justice sacked by President Pervez Musharraf under a brief emergency rule in November 2007.
Lawyers backed by opposition parties were due to launch a cross-country protest convoy, known as the long march, to Islamabad tomorrow.
"[The arrests have] been done to maintain law and order, so from now there's a ban on all sorts of processions, protests and congregations for one month," Farhan Aziz Khawaja, a senior Punjab provincial interior department official, told The Times. The ban will remain in force for three months, he said.
Pakistan was plunged into a fresh political crisis after President Zardari last month dismissed the provincial government of Punjab and imposed federal rule there after a court ruling that removed Shabaz Sharif, the chief minister. The court also barred his brother Nawaz Sharif from holding public office because of a past conviction.
Mr Sharif, who controls Punjab, Pakistan’s biggest and most powerful province, accused President Zardari of influencing the court decision and vowed to oust him from power. The ban would prevent Mr. Sharif, who is the country’s most popular political leader, from challenging Mr Zardari in the next presidential elections. The Government had denied the allegation that it manipulated the ruling and threatened to charge Mr Sharif with sedition.
The stand-off came as Pakistan faced economic meltdown and its forces are battling Taleban insurgents in northern areas bordering Afghanistan. There is growing concern in Washington and London that political instability could be exploited by Islamic militants who have expanded their influence in large parts of northern Pakistan.
Observers fear that the deepening political crisis could lead to intervention by the military. Pakistan returned to democratic civilian rule after nine years of military rule.
Most of those arrested belong to the popular Pakistan Muslim League (N) led by Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister, and Tehrik-e-Insaf, the party led by Imran Khan, the former cricket captain.
A senior politician in the Pakistan Muslim League (N), Raja Zafarul Haq, was placed under house arrest and this morning police were hunting for Imran Khan. Scores of other MPs and lawyers have gone into hiding to avoid detention.
A ban has been placed on public gatherings across the country and heavy contingents of police and paramilitary troops sealed off the capital Islamabad where opposition parties and lawyers plan to stage a sit-in outside the parliament building on Friday.
Police clashed with demonstrators in many cities in eastern Punjab province, who defied the Government’s ban. They fired tear gas on protesters in Multan city and arrested several protesters. In Lahore, the capital of Punjab province and Mr Sharif's political heartland, police confirmed further arrests.
The protests were called by lawyers against the decision of President Asif Ali Zardari’s Government not to restore Iftikhar Chaudhry, the chief justice sacked by President Pervez Musharraf under a brief emergency rule in November 2007.
Lawyers backed by opposition parties were due to launch a cross-country protest convoy, known as the long march, to Islamabad tomorrow.
"[The arrests have] been done to maintain law and order, so from now there's a ban on all sorts of processions, protests and congregations for one month," Farhan Aziz Khawaja, a senior Punjab provincial interior department official, told The Times. The ban will remain in force for three months, he said.
Pakistan was plunged into a fresh political crisis after President Zardari last month dismissed the provincial government of Punjab and imposed federal rule there after a court ruling that removed Shabaz Sharif, the chief minister. The court also barred his brother Nawaz Sharif from holding public office because of a past conviction.
Mr Sharif, who controls Punjab, Pakistan’s biggest and most powerful province, accused President Zardari of influencing the court decision and vowed to oust him from power. The ban would prevent Mr. Sharif, who is the country’s most popular political leader, from challenging Mr Zardari in the next presidential elections. The Government had denied the allegation that it manipulated the ruling and threatened to charge Mr Sharif with sedition.
The stand-off came as Pakistan faced economic meltdown and its forces are battling Taleban insurgents in northern areas bordering Afghanistan. There is growing concern in Washington and London that political instability could be exploited by Islamic militants who have expanded their influence in large parts of northern Pakistan.
Observers fear that the deepening political crisis could lead to intervention by the military. Pakistan returned to democratic civilian rule after nine years of military rule.
Karachi look for lost glory, SNGPL defend one-day cricket title
KARACHI: Karachi Dolphins will start a campaign on Wednesday (tomorrow) to regain lost cricketing glory, when they play a Group A match in the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) Cup National One-day Cricket Championship 2008-09 against Abbottabad Rhinos, here at the National Stadium, in a tournament that’s getting under way at various centres around the country.With the pall of gloom that set in after a terrorist attack on the Sri Lanka team motorcade in Lahore last week, and the Pakistan team’s tour of Bangladesh put off for a few days, the launch of the national limited overs competition offers a glimmer of hope and excitement for the local cricket fans. It is expected that all the leading Pakistan team stars will also be seen in action, till it’s time for them to answer the call of national duty.
While Karachi outfits have claimed the most (6) national one-day titles from among the country’s regional association teams, the last time they won a trophy was back in 2000-01 when Karachi Whites took the National One-day Tournament for Associations. Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL), who won the cricket double crown last season, were recently dethroned as the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy champions. But they will from Thursday begin the defence of their National One-day Cup title.
A total of 22 teams, the same as in the 2007-08 season’s ABN-AMRO (that’s how the Royal Bank of Scotland were known until then) Cup National One-day Championship, will be taking part this season also. The participants have been divided into four groups.While the matches in Groups A and C will start with the first round on Wednesday, the opening fixtures in Groups B and D have been scheduled to begin from Thursday. The two semifinals will be played at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore and Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad simultaneously on March 22, while the final has been scheduled for Gaddafi Stadium Lahore on March 24.
There are six teams each in Groups A and D. Group A, which has matches set aside for Karachi and interior Sindh cities of Hyderabad and Mirpur Khas, includes Rawalpindi Rams, Hyderabad Hawks, Multan Tigers, Quetta Bears, Karachi Dolphins and Abbottabad Rhinos.The six teams in Group D, to be contested on grounds in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala and Sheikhupura, are National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), SNGPL, Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Lahore Eagles and Karachi Zebras.
The Group B matches will be played in Sargodha, Peshawar, Sialkot and Sialkot. This pool has five teams: Lahore Lions, Faisalabad Wolves, Peshawar Panthers, Islamabad Leopards and Sialkot Stallions.Group C also comprises five teams. These are Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Khan Research Laboratories (KRL), Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL), Pakistan Customs and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). The matches here will be played in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.Limited overs one-day cricket, consisting of 35 (eight-ball), 40 or 50-over matches, was introduced in Pakistan soon after official One-day International matches made their mark in early 1971. The inaugural such domestic competition here was the Pakistan Television (PTV) Trophy in 1971-72, several matches of which were also telecast.
The PTV Trophy lasted only one season though. It was won by the PIA with Lahore (Division) ending as the runners-up.
While Karachi outfits have claimed the most (6) national one-day titles from among the country’s regional association teams, the last time they won a trophy was back in 2000-01 when Karachi Whites took the National One-day Tournament for Associations. Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL), who won the cricket double crown last season, were recently dethroned as the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy champions. But they will from Thursday begin the defence of their National One-day Cup title.
A total of 22 teams, the same as in the 2007-08 season’s ABN-AMRO (that’s how the Royal Bank of Scotland were known until then) Cup National One-day Championship, will be taking part this season also. The participants have been divided into four groups.While the matches in Groups A and C will start with the first round on Wednesday, the opening fixtures in Groups B and D have been scheduled to begin from Thursday. The two semifinals will be played at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore and Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad simultaneously on March 22, while the final has been scheduled for Gaddafi Stadium Lahore on March 24.
There are six teams each in Groups A and D. Group A, which has matches set aside for Karachi and interior Sindh cities of Hyderabad and Mirpur Khas, includes Rawalpindi Rams, Hyderabad Hawks, Multan Tigers, Quetta Bears, Karachi Dolphins and Abbottabad Rhinos.The six teams in Group D, to be contested on grounds in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala and Sheikhupura, are National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), SNGPL, Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Lahore Eagles and Karachi Zebras.
The Group B matches will be played in Sargodha, Peshawar, Sialkot and Sialkot. This pool has five teams: Lahore Lions, Faisalabad Wolves, Peshawar Panthers, Islamabad Leopards and Sialkot Stallions.Group C also comprises five teams. These are Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Khan Research Laboratories (KRL), Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL), Pakistan Customs and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). The matches here will be played in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.Limited overs one-day cricket, consisting of 35 (eight-ball), 40 or 50-over matches, was introduced in Pakistan soon after official One-day International matches made their mark in early 1971. The inaugural such domestic competition here was the Pakistan Television (PTV) Trophy in 1971-72, several matches of which were also telecast.
The PTV Trophy lasted only one season though. It was won by the PIA with Lahore (Division) ending as the runners-up.
70 percent of Taliban fighting only for money in Afghanistan: Biden
United States Vice President Joe Biden has claimed that at least 70 percent of Taliban guerrillas in Afghanistan are mercenaries fighting only for money.
He said that these elements could be persuaded to lay down their arms.
Stepping up U.S. calls for outreach to “moderate” elements of the insurgency, The News and the Washington Times both quoted as saying that he was in favour of applying the same tactics used by American troops in Iraq’s Anbar province.
There, radical Sunni Muslims were co-opted by American financial support. This, he said, could work in Afghanistan as part of President Barack Obama’s strategy for winning the war raging since 2001.
“Five percent of the Taliban is incorrigible, not susceptible to anything other than being defeated,” Biden told a press conference at North Atlantic Treaty Organization headquarters in Brussels.
“Another 25 percent or so are not quite sure, in my view, of the intensity of their commitment to the insurgency. Roughly 70 percent are involved because of the money,” he added.
“We are not now winning the war, but the war is far from lost,” Biden said.
Biden was in Belgium to discuss Afghanistan with NATO officials in advance of next month’s summit.
He said that he did not know what kind of concessions Taliban members might be willing to make, but added that the Afghan government would have to initiate and approve of any such talks.
‘But I do think it is worth engaging and determining whether or not there are those who are willing to participate in a secure and stable Afghan state,’ Biden said.
President Obama on Friday left open the door to negotiating with elements of the Taliban as part of a counter-insurgency strategy first conceived and carried out in Iraq by General David Petraeus, the former commander of military forces in Iraq who now oversees military operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan as commander of CENTCOM.
The U.S. military action in Afghanistan, late in 2001, unseated the Taliban from power after President Bush said they had given Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda the safe haven they needed to plot and carry out the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The Taliban are fundamentalist Muslims who espouse an extreme and strict interpretation of the Koran that includes a medieval system of justice and is highly repressive of women’s rights.
The American vice president said that his talks with NATO allies were ‘essentially the beginning’ of consultations with them over the way forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan, which he emphasized have to be thought of jointly. (ANI)
He said that these elements could be persuaded to lay down their arms.
Stepping up U.S. calls for outreach to “moderate” elements of the insurgency, The News and the Washington Times both quoted as saying that he was in favour of applying the same tactics used by American troops in Iraq’s Anbar province.
There, radical Sunni Muslims were co-opted by American financial support. This, he said, could work in Afghanistan as part of President Barack Obama’s strategy for winning the war raging since 2001.
“Five percent of the Taliban is incorrigible, not susceptible to anything other than being defeated,” Biden told a press conference at North Atlantic Treaty Organization headquarters in Brussels.
“Another 25 percent or so are not quite sure, in my view, of the intensity of their commitment to the insurgency. Roughly 70 percent are involved because of the money,” he added.
“We are not now winning the war, but the war is far from lost,” Biden said.
Biden was in Belgium to discuss Afghanistan with NATO officials in advance of next month’s summit.
He said that he did not know what kind of concessions Taliban members might be willing to make, but added that the Afghan government would have to initiate and approve of any such talks.
‘But I do think it is worth engaging and determining whether or not there are those who are willing to participate in a secure and stable Afghan state,’ Biden said.
President Obama on Friday left open the door to negotiating with elements of the Taliban as part of a counter-insurgency strategy first conceived and carried out in Iraq by General David Petraeus, the former commander of military forces in Iraq who now oversees military operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan as commander of CENTCOM.
The U.S. military action in Afghanistan, late in 2001, unseated the Taliban from power after President Bush said they had given Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda the safe haven they needed to plot and carry out the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The Taliban are fundamentalist Muslims who espouse an extreme and strict interpretation of the Koran that includes a medieval system of justice and is highly repressive of women’s rights.
The American vice president said that his talks with NATO allies were ‘essentially the beginning’ of consultations with them over the way forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan, which he emphasized have to be thought of jointly. (ANI)
DIG Bashir Ahmed Memon assures of immediate recovery of MQM leader Asim Kabir
SHAHEED BENAZIRABAD: DIG Hyderabad Bashir Ahmed Memon paid a visit to Shaheed Benazirabad District on Monday and chaired a meeting of police officials. The DIG was briefed about different cases including kidnapping of the MQM leader Asim Kabir.
While talking to newsmen, DIG Bashir Ahmed Memon said that strict action will be taken against the outlaws and law and order will be maintained in the region. He assured to recover former MQM MPA, Asim Kabir soon. 3 houses gutted A fire erupted in the houses of Saleem, Rustam Khokhar and another man at Fauji Colony on Monday and as a result the valuables kept in the houses were reduced to ashes, while the houses were also completely destroyed. While talking to newsmen, the fire affected persons demanded of the government to provide them with financial aid so that they can reconstruct their houses.
People of Lakho community attacked two men of Brohi community including Anwar Brohi and Rafique Brohi with sticks on Monday at Sakrand-Shaheed Benazirabad Road and as a result they sustained critical injuries. The injured were rushed to a local hospital. Meanwhile, a NC of the incident was registered by the Airport Police.
While talking to newsmen, DIG Bashir Ahmed Memon said that strict action will be taken against the outlaws and law and order will be maintained in the region. He assured to recover former MQM MPA, Asim Kabir soon. 3 houses gutted A fire erupted in the houses of Saleem, Rustam Khokhar and another man at Fauji Colony on Monday and as a result the valuables kept in the houses were reduced to ashes, while the houses were also completely destroyed. While talking to newsmen, the fire affected persons demanded of the government to provide them with financial aid so that they can reconstruct their houses.
People of Lakho community attacked two men of Brohi community including Anwar Brohi and Rafique Brohi with sticks on Monday at Sakrand-Shaheed Benazirabad Road and as a result they sustained critical injuries. The injured were rushed to a local hospital. Meanwhile, a NC of the incident was registered by the Airport Police.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Polartechnics moves into Pakistan
Pakistan government orders cervical cancer screen
Sydney’s Polartechnics has received another international order for its TruScreen cervical cancer screening technology, this time with Pakistan.
The Pakistani Government has initially ordered 100 units but expects to order more in the future.
TruScreen is a point of care detection device for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Pakistan, which has a female population of more than 85 million.
Last month, Polartechnics signed distribution agreements with major medical companies in Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
Polartechnics also produces a self-administered HPV test called CerviScreen under a joint venture with Genera BioSystems and Gribbles Pathology.
Sydney’s Polartechnics has received another international order for its TruScreen cervical cancer screening technology, this time with Pakistan.
The Pakistani Government has initially ordered 100 units but expects to order more in the future.
TruScreen is a point of care detection device for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Pakistan, which has a female population of more than 85 million.
Last month, Polartechnics signed distribution agreements with major medical companies in Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
Polartechnics also produces a self-administered HPV test called CerviScreen under a joint venture with Genera BioSystems and Gribbles Pathology.
Musical concert on final day of Hamara Karachi
A colourful musical concert was arranged on the last day of the Hamara Karachi festival attended by thousands of people here on Sunday. The concert was held at Sea View to mark the end of the ceremonies of the Hamara Karachi festival continued from February 20 under the Hamara Karachi Foundation ans in collaboration with the City Government.Speaker Sindh Assembly Nisar Ahmed Khuro, provincial minister Raza Haroon and Naib Nazima City Government Nasreen Jaleel were also present at the musical concert along with thousands of citizens.
A large number of people enjoyed by the famous song ‘jugni’ sung by well known singer Saleem Javed and lively performance from musical band ‘Strings’ and other artists during the concert.
At the end of the ceremony, a magnificent show of fireworks was also displayed.
A large number of people enjoyed by the famous song ‘jugni’ sung by well known singer Saleem Javed and lively performance from musical band ‘Strings’ and other artists during the concert.
At the end of the ceremony, a magnificent show of fireworks was also displayed.
Palestinian unity talks to resume amid low hopes
Divided over policy towards Israel and control of Gaza reconstruction aid, rival Palestinian factions face tough obstacles in unity talks due to open in Cairo on Tuesday.On the eve of the negotiations, slated to last 10 days, officials loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah faction and the Hamas Islamist movement that rules the Gaza Strip were united in a singular message: chances for success are slim.
Five committees were set to tackle issues at the heart of Palestinian reconciliation: formation of a unity government and restructuring the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) to include Hamas, now a political and military powerhouse.Palestinian political analysts said Hamas agreed to the talks to try to overcome its isolation by the West over the group's refusal to recognise Israel, renounce violence and accept existing interim peace deals.Western-backed Abbas, the analysts said, was seeking to minimise inter-factional friction, aware Fatah could be weakened if peace talks with Israel went nowhere under what appears likely to be a new right-wing led by Benjamin Netanyahu.
"We must reach an agreement to form a government of reconciliation that will abide by the obligations of the PLO," Abbas told reporters on Sunday.He was referring to the organisation's interim peace agreements that envisage the creation of a Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel, a blueprint that Netanyahu has not accepted publicly.Hamas opposes the U.S.-backed peace process, offering instead a long-term truce with Israel that falls short of recognition of the Jewish state.
Five committees were set to tackle issues at the heart of Palestinian reconciliation: formation of a unity government and restructuring the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) to include Hamas, now a political and military powerhouse.Palestinian political analysts said Hamas agreed to the talks to try to overcome its isolation by the West over the group's refusal to recognise Israel, renounce violence and accept existing interim peace deals.Western-backed Abbas, the analysts said, was seeking to minimise inter-factional friction, aware Fatah could be weakened if peace talks with Israel went nowhere under what appears likely to be a new right-wing led by Benjamin Netanyahu.
"We must reach an agreement to form a government of reconciliation that will abide by the obligations of the PLO," Abbas told reporters on Sunday.He was referring to the organisation's interim peace agreements that envisage the creation of a Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel, a blueprint that Netanyahu has not accepted publicly.Hamas opposes the U.S.-backed peace process, offering instead a long-term truce with Israel that falls short of recognition of the Jewish state.
World Bank: Economy worst since Depression
The world economy is on track to post its worst performance since the Great Depression, with developing countries bearing much of the economic pain, the World Bank said Monday.
Those countries face a credit shortfall of up to $700 billion, the bank said.
"The global economy is likely to shrink this year for the first time since World War II," the bank said, noting that global industrial production, by the middle of 2009, could be as much as 15% lower than in 2008.
Based on those projections, world trade is on track to record its largest decline in 80 years, with the sharpest losses expected in East Asia.
The World Bank, which helps finance the debt of developing nations, says the financial crisis will have long-term implications for them.
"Many institutions that have provided financial intermediation for developing country clients have virtually disappeared. Developing countries that can still access financial markets face higher borrowing costs, and lower capital flows, leading to weaker investment and slower growth in the future," the bank said.
"When this crisis began, people in developing countries, especially those in Africa, were the innocent bystanders in this crisis, yet they have no choice but to bear its harsh consequences," World Bank Managing Director Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said in remarks prepared for a development conference in London on Monday.
According to the World Bank: "The most affected sectors are those that were the most dynamic, typically urban-based exporters, construction, mining and manufacturing. Cambodia, for example, has lost 30,000 jobs in the garment industry, its only significant export industry. More than half a million jobs have been lost in the last three months of 2008 in India, including in gems and jewelry, autos and textiles."
Those countries face a credit shortfall of up to $700 billion, the bank said.
"The global economy is likely to shrink this year for the first time since World War II," the bank said, noting that global industrial production, by the middle of 2009, could be as much as 15% lower than in 2008.
Based on those projections, world trade is on track to record its largest decline in 80 years, with the sharpest losses expected in East Asia.
The World Bank, which helps finance the debt of developing nations, says the financial crisis will have long-term implications for them.
"Many institutions that have provided financial intermediation for developing country clients have virtually disappeared. Developing countries that can still access financial markets face higher borrowing costs, and lower capital flows, leading to weaker investment and slower growth in the future," the bank said.
"When this crisis began, people in developing countries, especially those in Africa, were the innocent bystanders in this crisis, yet they have no choice but to bear its harsh consequences," World Bank Managing Director Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said in remarks prepared for a development conference in London on Monday.
According to the World Bank: "The most affected sectors are those that were the most dynamic, typically urban-based exporters, construction, mining and manufacturing. Cambodia, for example, has lost 30,000 jobs in the garment industry, its only significant export industry. More than half a million jobs have been lost in the last three months of 2008 in India, including in gems and jewelry, autos and textiles."
Ejaz Butt confident Pakistan will host tours again by end of year
Ejaz Butt confident Pakistan will host tours again by end of year
Pakistan's Cricket Board chairman has adopted a defiant stance against the widespread assumption, after the Lahore terror attacks, that there will be no international cricket in his country for the foreseeable future.
By Huw Turbervill Last Updated: 9:23PM GMT 08 Mar 2009
Defiant: Ejaz Butt says Pakistan can still have Test future at home Photo: EPA
Pakistan's Cricket Board chairman has adopted a defiant stance against the widespread assumption, after the Lahore terror attacks, that there will be no international cricket in his country for the foreseeable future. Ejaz Butt insists they are expecting to host another international team in the next six to nine months, and will still co-host the 2011 World Cup.
Seven people were killed and six members of the Sri Lankan squad injured last week, but Butt, in what seems to be a optimistically upbeat assessment, said: "I'd expect teams will tour here again as soon as possible. I'd give it six to nine months to get things organised.
"I'd want us to get security to a level that would be a guarantee from my government that no such incident like this could happen again, or I will not invite anybody.
"Once I have this assurance I may then invite people to come here. But this can happen anywhere. I cannot give that guarantee, but my government can. If they cannot then we'll not have cricket in Pakistan at all. I definitely think that we'll stage part of the World Cup in 2011." Butt also said he disagreed with match referee Chris Broad, the former England batsman, who said there had not been enough security to protect players and officials. Broad was travelling in the officials' bus behind the Sri Lanka team.
"I totally disagree with Chris Broad, he is overdoing it," said Butt. "And it is wrong if they [the International Cricket Council] are siding with one man's opinion. I have told them that this opinion is totally wrong." The problem of ensuring the safety of cricketers is not just confined to the subcontinent, however, according to Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive, who said yesterday that nowhere is safe.
"I think anywhere in the world is a target, it's a question of degree and we will do assessments of all our venues," he said. "I don't think any particular country is spared.
Pakistan's Cricket Board chairman has adopted a defiant stance against the widespread assumption, after the Lahore terror attacks, that there will be no international cricket in his country for the foreseeable future.
By Huw Turbervill Last Updated: 9:23PM GMT 08 Mar 2009
Defiant: Ejaz Butt says Pakistan can still have Test future at home Photo: EPA
Pakistan's Cricket Board chairman has adopted a defiant stance against the widespread assumption, after the Lahore terror attacks, that there will be no international cricket in his country for the foreseeable future. Ejaz Butt insists they are expecting to host another international team in the next six to nine months, and will still co-host the 2011 World Cup.
Seven people were killed and six members of the Sri Lankan squad injured last week, but Butt, in what seems to be a optimistically upbeat assessment, said: "I'd expect teams will tour here again as soon as possible. I'd give it six to nine months to get things organised.
"I'd want us to get security to a level that would be a guarantee from my government that no such incident like this could happen again, or I will not invite anybody.
"Once I have this assurance I may then invite people to come here. But this can happen anywhere. I cannot give that guarantee, but my government can. If they cannot then we'll not have cricket in Pakistan at all. I definitely think that we'll stage part of the World Cup in 2011." Butt also said he disagreed with match referee Chris Broad, the former England batsman, who said there had not been enough security to protect players and officials. Broad was travelling in the officials' bus behind the Sri Lanka team.
"I totally disagree with Chris Broad, he is overdoing it," said Butt. "And it is wrong if they [the International Cricket Council] are siding with one man's opinion. I have told them that this opinion is totally wrong." The problem of ensuring the safety of cricketers is not just confined to the subcontinent, however, according to Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive, who said yesterday that nowhere is safe.
"I think anywhere in the world is a target, it's a question of degree and we will do assessments of all our venues," he said. "I don't think any particular country is spared.
Health ministry signs MoU with UN agencies
Ministry of Health has signed agreement with United Nations agencies to address the health issues with focus on five well-targeted components which will be treated in a holistic manner. The six components included mother neonatal, child health, family planning and reproductive health, communicable diseases control, health promotion and nutrition, health system development, HIV/AIDs, and population census are planned for a period of two years with an overall estimated budget of US$ 384.7 million.
There are 14 UN agencies that are combining their strengths to address the health issues facing the country and the people of Pakistan. The overall vision of the health and population joint program is based on the `Health for All' approach. The participating UN agencies for this joint programme included FAO, ILO, IOM, World Bank, UNAIDS, UNDP, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNIFEM, UNODC, WFP and WHO. Speaking on the occasion, Federal Secretary Health, Khushnood Akhtar Lashari said United Nations agencies are providing significant support to different sectors in the country enabling them to progress towards realization of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). "By working together we will achieve the objectives set out in the MDGs with a view to reducing morbidity and mortality among women and children and ensuring provision of better health-care," the secretary said addressing the country heads and representatives of 14 UN agencies who were present on the occasion.
He said UN assisted programmes are assisting in achieving targets in different areas of public health especially in a period when we are facing financial constraints. Prof. Dr Rasheed Jooma, Director General Health said "Through these interventions we will be able to improve the health system in Pakistan in a holistic manner." The DG Population, Dr Mumtaz Esker said that through this joint programme, the Ministry of Population and Ministry of Health have also joined hands to ensure a greater impact for the development of the country. Representative of the Ministry of Education speaking on the occasion pledged all out support and reiterated commitment to making the joint programme a success.
World Health Organization Representative to Pakistan, Dr. Khalif Bile said health was developmental issue and there are areas beyond the scope of the health sector alone that affect health and well being including sanitation, population, rights and gender issues etc. He welcomed the joint programmes and said it was a major step forward that the line Ministries and departments were collaborating towards achievement of a common objective. Director General, Ministry of Health, Prof. Dr. Rashid Jooma, Director General, Ministry of Population Welfare, Dr. Mrs. Mumtaz Esker and the Head of agencies of the fourteen UN agencies participating in the UN Joint Programme on Health signed the six Joint Programme Components for Health.
There are 14 UN agencies that are combining their strengths to address the health issues facing the country and the people of Pakistan. The overall vision of the health and population joint program is based on the `Health for All' approach. The participating UN agencies for this joint programme included FAO, ILO, IOM, World Bank, UNAIDS, UNDP, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNIFEM, UNODC, WFP and WHO. Speaking on the occasion, Federal Secretary Health, Khushnood Akhtar Lashari said United Nations agencies are providing significant support to different sectors in the country enabling them to progress towards realization of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). "By working together we will achieve the objectives set out in the MDGs with a view to reducing morbidity and mortality among women and children and ensuring provision of better health-care," the secretary said addressing the country heads and representatives of 14 UN agencies who were present on the occasion.
He said UN assisted programmes are assisting in achieving targets in different areas of public health especially in a period when we are facing financial constraints. Prof. Dr Rasheed Jooma, Director General Health said "Through these interventions we will be able to improve the health system in Pakistan in a holistic manner." The DG Population, Dr Mumtaz Esker said that through this joint programme, the Ministry of Population and Ministry of Health have also joined hands to ensure a greater impact for the development of the country. Representative of the Ministry of Education speaking on the occasion pledged all out support and reiterated commitment to making the joint programme a success.
World Health Organization Representative to Pakistan, Dr. Khalif Bile said health was developmental issue and there are areas beyond the scope of the health sector alone that affect health and well being including sanitation, population, rights and gender issues etc. He welcomed the joint programmes and said it was a major step forward that the line Ministries and departments were collaborating towards achievement of a common objective. Director General, Ministry of Health, Prof. Dr. Rashid Jooma, Director General, Ministry of Population Welfare, Dr. Mrs. Mumtaz Esker and the Head of agencies of the fourteen UN agencies participating in the UN Joint Programme on Health signed the six Joint Programme Components for Health.
LG launches Arena, LG-KM900
LG Electronics, a worldwide technology and design leader in mobile communications, announced Friday the launch of its new flagship mobile phone for 2009, LG Arena (LG-KM900). “With rich 3D graphics, touch sensitivity and exciting multimedia capabilities, it will truly make ARENA a fully loaded multimedia phone,” Dr Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company said. This fully loaded multimedia phone with LG’s innovative and dynamic 3D S-Class User Interface unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2009 in Barcelona.
IDB to finance Pak projects
Islamic Development Bank (IDB) is ready to finance up to 65 per cent cost of Pak projects in textile, agriculture, energy, food, hosiery and garment sectors in order to foster economic development and social progress.IDB President Dr Ahmed Mohamed Ali assured deputy leader of a 10-member Pakistan private sector delegation, Iftikhar Ali Malik, during their visit to the 5th World Islamic Economic Forum, concluded a couple of days ago at Jakarta.
The forum was attended by high-profile delegates from 57 Muslim states.Malik, who returned home on Friday after attending the three-day World Islamic Economic Forum which concluded on March 4, told media persons that he held a productive meeting with the IDB chief who assured him that the bank is ready to finance projects in Pakistan up to 65 per cent.He said that Pakistani businessmen dealing in textile, agriculture, energy, food, garments and hosiery sector must avail this opportunity.
He said IDB chief explained to him that prime object of bank is to foster economic development and social progress of the member countries and Muslim states in accordance with the principles of Shariah.He said that all delegates from 57 Muslim countries who attended the WIEF session expressed their keen interest to establish and promote trade links with Pakistani counterpart in different sectors.He said that IDB is also ready for investment in joint ventures with Pak private sector provided the projects must be genuine. He said Pak exporters and traders in order to capture Muslim market must adopt modern techniques of marketing only through promotion of branding trade mark of their international standard products.He said Pak traders must bear in mind the importance of better quality of products, excellent finishing and outstanding design etc.
Malik said he is advising the Pak traders on the basis of his 45 years of experience and added that international quality of their branded products will help capture the European Union and Muslim countries markets.
The forum was attended by high-profile delegates from 57 Muslim states.Malik, who returned home on Friday after attending the three-day World Islamic Economic Forum which concluded on March 4, told media persons that he held a productive meeting with the IDB chief who assured him that the bank is ready to finance projects in Pakistan up to 65 per cent.He said that Pakistani businessmen dealing in textile, agriculture, energy, food, garments and hosiery sector must avail this opportunity.
He said IDB chief explained to him that prime object of bank is to foster economic development and social progress of the member countries and Muslim states in accordance with the principles of Shariah.He said that all delegates from 57 Muslim countries who attended the WIEF session expressed their keen interest to establish and promote trade links with Pakistani counterpart in different sectors.He said that IDB is also ready for investment in joint ventures with Pak private sector provided the projects must be genuine. He said Pak exporters and traders in order to capture Muslim market must adopt modern techniques of marketing only through promotion of branding trade mark of their international standard products.He said Pak traders must bear in mind the importance of better quality of products, excellent finishing and outstanding design etc.
Malik said he is advising the Pak traders on the basis of his 45 years of experience and added that international quality of their branded products will help capture the European Union and Muslim countries markets.
President consults Premier, MQM Chief for reconciliation with “Sharif Brethren”
President consults Premier, MQM Chief for reconciliation with “Sharif Brethren”
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari held a meeting with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and also consulted MQM chief Altaf Hussain and exchanged views on the current situation in the country particularly about the Punjab’s situation and over reconciliation process with ‘Sharif Brethren’.
Reliable sources from the Presidency informed here on Friday that during the meeting between the President and the Premier, both the sides reiterated that democratic process will not be allowed to destabilize the Country and reaffirmed that political crisis will be addressed through reconciliation instead of confrontations.
Sources also stated that during One-hour long meeting, President Zardari said that he aimed to lead the country on the way of reconciliation and said that who ever considered him responsible for disqualification verdict of ‘Sharif Brethren’, was totally mistaken and despite all criticism being leveled at him he still favored reconciliation with all the political forces.
He also said that “Governor Raj” will soon be lifted from Punjab and if Sharif Brethren replied positively for the endeavors of allies, then the Government will also demonstrate flexibility in its stance and democracy will be strengthened through reconciliation process in the country.
Meanwhile MQM Chief Altaf Hussain also phoned President Asif Ali Zardari and exchanged views regarding country’s situation, imposition of Governor Raj and about the nomination of Senate’s Chairman and Deputy Chairman and also felicitated the President for sweeping the senate’s elections.
Sources also disclosed that during the telephonic conversation MQM Chief also asked formally for the portfolio of Senate’s deputy chairman, at which President Asif Ali Zardari said that he would decide over it after taking other political allies into confidence.
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari held a meeting with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and also consulted MQM chief Altaf Hussain and exchanged views on the current situation in the country particularly about the Punjab’s situation and over reconciliation process with ‘Sharif Brethren’.
Reliable sources from the Presidency informed here on Friday that during the meeting between the President and the Premier, both the sides reiterated that democratic process will not be allowed to destabilize the Country and reaffirmed that political crisis will be addressed through reconciliation instead of confrontations.
Sources also stated that during One-hour long meeting, President Zardari said that he aimed to lead the country on the way of reconciliation and said that who ever considered him responsible for disqualification verdict of ‘Sharif Brethren’, was totally mistaken and despite all criticism being leveled at him he still favored reconciliation with all the political forces.
He also said that “Governor Raj” will soon be lifted from Punjab and if Sharif Brethren replied positively for the endeavors of allies, then the Government will also demonstrate flexibility in its stance and democracy will be strengthened through reconciliation process in the country.
Meanwhile MQM Chief Altaf Hussain also phoned President Asif Ali Zardari and exchanged views regarding country’s situation, imposition of Governor Raj and about the nomination of Senate’s Chairman and Deputy Chairman and also felicitated the President for sweeping the senate’s elections.
Sources also disclosed that during the telephonic conversation MQM Chief also asked formally for the portfolio of Senate’s deputy chairman, at which President Asif Ali Zardari said that he would decide over it after taking other political allies into confidence.
Karachi private bank record gutted in fire
The record of a private bank located on I. I. Chundrigar road gutted in fire here.Fire Brigade sources told that a fire erupted in the IT Department of a private bank on I. I. Chundrigar Road due to short circuit, which the Fire Brigade reaching on information brought under control. However, the record of the IT Department was gutted in fire.
Int’l Women Day: Attiqa Odho leads walk in Karachi
Renowned artist Attiqa Odho Sunday led a walk in Karachi on the occasion of International Women Day. The participants started the walk from PIDC and marched up to Karachi Press Club.Naib City Nazim Nasreen Jalil, Abdul Sattar Edhi and large number of women participated in the walk.Speaking on the occasion, Attiqa Odho said women across the world including those of Pakistan are victims of oppression. She called on the men to play their due role towards putting an end to the excesses meted out to the women.Odho said the entire Nation will have to unite for pulling the country out of the prevailing crisis.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
8-PPPP, 3-MQM candidates for senate election declared successful unopposed
8-PPPP, 3-MQM candidates for senate election declared successful unopposed
KARACHI: On the last day of submission of nomination papers for Senate Election at 11 seats of Sindh Province, eight candidates of PPPP and three MQM candidates have been nominated as unopposed according to unofficial results.
Syed Faisal Raza Abidi, Gul Muhammad Lat, Khatomal Jewan, Maula Bux Chandio, Islam ud Din Sheikh have submitted their documents on general seats while Federal Minister Rehman Malik, Farooq H. Naik have submitted their nomination papers at two reserved seats of Technocrats and Almas Parveen has submitted his nomination papers at Women reserve seat.
Similarly, MQM had already submitted the nomination of papers of its three candidates. PML-Q, PML-F, ANP and National Peoples party did not field their candidates in the Senate Election.
Three MQM nominated candidates include Babar Ghouri, Abdul Haseeb and Sharala Nishat have been nominated Senators unopposed.
KARACHI: On the last day of submission of nomination papers for Senate Election at 11 seats of Sindh Province, eight candidates of PPPP and three MQM candidates have been nominated as unopposed according to unofficial results.
Syed Faisal Raza Abidi, Gul Muhammad Lat, Khatomal Jewan, Maula Bux Chandio, Islam ud Din Sheikh have submitted their documents on general seats while Federal Minister Rehman Malik, Farooq H. Naik have submitted their nomination papers at two reserved seats of Technocrats and Almas Parveen has submitted his nomination papers at Women reserve seat.
Similarly, MQM had already submitted the nomination of papers of its three candidates. PML-Q, PML-F, ANP and National Peoples party did not field their candidates in the Senate Election.
Three MQM nominated candidates include Babar Ghouri, Abdul Haseeb and Sharala Nishat have been nominated Senators unopposed.
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