Category: Uncategorized

  • “Taliban have taken over my constituency,” says Mohsin Dawar

    “Taliban have taken over my constituency,” says Mohsin Dawar

    Former Member National Assembly and Pashtun Tahafuz Movement leader Mohsin Dawar has shared via a tweet on X that “Taliban have taken over polling stations in Tappi, N. Waziristan in my constituency NA-40”.

    He went on to share that “three of our female polling agents escaped a blast in the morning. I had conveyed my concerns about the security situation in Tappi to the DRO which were ignored. ECP has to take notice.”

    NA-40 same constituency where women are being barred from voting. Journalist Iftikhar Firdous also posted that an unidentified man has been recorded, taking away an entire ballot box. Voting as resumed but women are not being allowed to vote.

  • Pakistanis say vote matters despite alleged election rigging

    Pakistanis say vote matters despite alleged election rigging

    Islamabad, Pakistan

    Pakistanis turning out early for Thursday’s election said they believe their votes count, despite allegations of rigging in the nation’s most fractious poll in recent history.

    “I believe in democracy and I think my vote matters,” said 22-year-old psychology student Haleema Shafiq, among the first to vote in the capital Islamabad.

    “I cast my vote as it’s my duty,” she told AFP inside a polling station. “I wish for a deserving party to come to power.”

    Polls opened at 8:00 am (0300 GMT) for 128 million eligible voters, with the first participants trickling into the Noorpur Shahan girl’s school and inking their fingers to stamp papers in gender-segregated booths.

    Early voters were outnumbered by around a dozen armed security personnel staffing the station, a day after twin blasts claimed by the Islamic State killed 28 outside candidate offices in the nation’s southwest.

    “I want a government that can make Pakistan safe for girls,” said Shafiq.

    Analysts predict a low turnout after a muted campaign overshadowed by the jailing of ex-prime minister Imran Khan and the hobbling of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party by the military establishment.

    “Is this the way an election should be conducted?” asked 40-year-old Imran Khan, a driver who shares his name with the jailed opposition leader.

    “Everyone has the right to vote according to their own will,” he said. “Today is not the day to stay at home. Those who choose to sit at home today will do injustice to themselves.”

    Monitors say the treatment of PTI amounts to “pre-poll rigging”, and the party has voiced fears that voters would face interference at polling stations.

    Ballots were posted into white and green ballot boxes, Pakistan’s national colours, and crowds steadily grew in the first hour after polls opened.

    “I arrived 20 minutes early to cast my vote because I believe my vote matters,” said 39-year-old Syed Tassawar. “My only fear is whether my vote will be counted for the same party I cast it for.”

    “At the same time, for the poor it does not matter who is ruling — we need a government that can control inflation, that’s the only thing that matters to people like us,” added the construction worker.

    Whoever wins Thursday’s election will inherit a divided country with an economy in tatters — with galloping inflation, a rupee in freefall and a balance of payments crisis.

    “We have pretty high expectations from the new government to improve our conditions, said 21-year-old first-time voter Zainab Asghar.

    “Every single vote matters,” she said.

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    © Agence France-Presse

  • I had good working relationship with Shehbaz Sharif, says Bilawal Bhutto

    I had good working relationship with Shehbaz Sharif, says Bilawal Bhutto

    The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, while talking to GEO News, said that he had a good working relationship with Shehbaz Sharif. The former foreign minister also said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) are doing ‘politics of hate’.

    Bilawal also stated that the politics of hate needs to end, as all politicians should respect each other. On the question of missing persons in the country, a young politician said his party will try to resolve this issue He was also not satisfied with what the caretaker federal government did to the Baloch Long March protesters in December.

  • Nawaz will be PM if we get a simple majority in elections: Shehbaz Sharif

    Nawaz will be PM if we get a simple majority in elections: Shehbaz Sharif

    The former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, while talking to GEO News, said that if Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) gets a simple majority in elections, then PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif will be the next prime minister of Pakistan.

    The former prime minister also said that PML-N needs to do more work for women’s empowerment, as the party is lacking in addressing this issue. He also said that the party is geared up to fix the economy when they win the election.

  • Nawaz, Shehbaz, Hamza sher ko vote nahin dein gay

    Nawaz, Shehbaz, Hamza sher ko vote nahin dein gay

    After a hectic election campaign, prominent leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) find themselves in an a quandary, as they gear up for the upcoming general elections.

    Despite urging voters to support the party’s ‘sher’ electoral symbol, key figures within the PML-N will be unable to cast their votes for the animal on the National Assembly seat. Instead, they might vote for another animal.

    Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz, all integral figures within the PML-N, are registered to vote in NA-128, where the party has entered into a seat adjustment agreement with the Istehkam-e-Pakistan (IPP) party.

    Interestingly, in NA-128, the PML-N has decided not to field a candidate for the National Assembly seat, instead throwing their support behind IPP leader Aun Chaudhry, whose symbol is an eagle.

    However, despite this alliance, the three PML-N leaders will still exercise their voting rights for PML-N candidate,Umar Sohail in PP-161.

    The PML-N’s election strategy spans across the country, with the party contesting 212 NA constituencies on February 8, while leaving 51 NA seats open for rivals or allies.

    Notable among their candidates are Nawaz Sharif, who will be contesting in NA-15 (Mansehra) and NA-130 (Lahore), Maryam Nawaz in NA-119 (Lahore), and Hamza Shehbaz in NA-118 (Lahore). Shehbaz Sharif is set to participate in the elections from NA-123 (Lahore) and NA-132(Kasur).

    However, there are several constituencies where the PML-N has chosen not to field candidates, including NA-4 (Swat-III), NA-19 (Swabi-I), and NA-117 (Lahore-I), among others, as part of their strategic alliances and considerations for bolstering their position in the province.

    The constituencies where the PML-N has not fielded its candidates are: NA-4 (Swat-III), NA-19 (Swabi-I), NA-20 (Swabi-II), NA-21 (Mardan-I), NA-22 (Mardan-III), NA-44 (Dera Ismail Khan-I), NA-45 (Dera Ismail Khan-II), NA-48 (Islamabad-III), NA-54 (Islamabad-III), NA-64 (Gujrat-III), NA-88 (Khushab-II), NA-92 (Bhakkar-II), NA-117 (Lahore-I), NA-128 (Lahore-XII), NA-143 (Sahiwal-III), NA-149 (Multan-II).

    Moreover, the candidates are also not contesting on NA-165, NA-185, NA-190 to NA-204, NA-206 to NA-210, NA-212, NA-214, NA-215, NA-217, NA-218, NA-221, NA-223, NA-224, NA-228, NA-239, NA-245, NA-264 and NA-266.

    The former ruling party, in its bid to strengthen its position in the province ahead of the upcoming elections, had entered a seat adjustment agreement with Jahangir Tareen’s IPP.

  • Luxury Redefined: One Homes Brings Haagia Sophia Istanbul Designer ZKLD Studio to Pakistan

    Luxury Redefined: One Homes Brings Haagia Sophia Istanbul Designer ZKLD Studio to Pakistan

    Luxury Redefined: One Homes appoint world leading lighting design consultant ZKLD Studio for One Canal Road

    Lahore’s New Icon: One Homes bring world leading lighting designer ZKLD Studio to Pakistan. 

    Lahore, January 15, 2024: One Homes, Pakistan’s leading luxury real estate developer, in a first for Pakistan is bringing internationally acclaimed light design consultants ZKLD Studio for their landmark Lahore development, One Canal Road.

    ZKLD Studio is a world-leading design practice celebrated for its innovative use of light and darkness to enhance visual environments. With an illustrious three-decade legacy, they have completed a myriad of projects globally, from illuminating grand civic structures to creating intimate community spaces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of design. ZKLD’s collaboration with Hagia Sophia, an icon of political power, highlights their mastery in enhancing architectural marvels with lighting expertise.

    With a clientele that includes prestigious names like Rixos Hotels, Emaar, Foster + Partner, and Al-Fattan Properties, ZKLD has proven its expertise in creating captivating visual experiences, making it the perfect partner for One Homes’ ambitious vision to deliver Lahore’s new icon.

    One Homes, a pioneer in lifestyle-centric living spaces, is guided by a commitment to excellence and a customer-centric ethos. The international real estate group started their journey in Pakistan in 2017 and since then have consistently set new standards by bringing world-leading brands to Pakistan including Versace Ceramics, The Haute Interiors, Varabyeu Partners, and Savills. 

    One Homes currently has over 11.7 Million square feet of projects completed and under development across Pakistan with a Gross Development Value exceeding $500 Million.

    Mr. Aqib Hassan, Chief Commercial Officer of One Homes, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “While any lighting could adorn a building, we have chosen to appoint a world-leading consultant in ZKLD Studio. This decision goes beyond our initial commitment to our clients; it reflects our promise to leave no stone unturned in delivering the best. We believe that the difference between good and extraordinary lies in attention to detail, and this partnership exemplifies our dedication to exceeding expectations.”

    This exciting collaboration between One Homes and ZKLD Studio promises to infuse One Canal Road, Lahore, with a unique visual language, where light becomes an integral part of the architectural narrative. Together, they aim to create a living space that transcends the ordinary, fusing cutting-edge design with international standards to deliver an iconic landmark that captivates and inspires. Get ready for a luminous transformation that will redefine luxury living in the heart of Lahore.

    The One Group is founded by Chairman and CEO Zeeshaan Shah.

    For Further Information:https://onehomes.com/
     https://zkldstudio.com/

  • Elections 2024 Live

    Elections 2024 Live

  • Bushra Bibi doesn’t want to live in Bani Gala

    Bushra Bibi doesn’t want to live in Bani Gala

    Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) founder chairman Imran Khan, has lodged a challenge against the authorities’ decision to confine her to her Bani Gala residence to serve a 14-year sentence in the Toshakhana case.

    Previously detained at the sprawling residence, Bushra Bibi was imprisoned last month following an accountability court’s ruling that sentenced the couple to 14 years in jail in connection with the Toshakhana case.

    In response to a request from the Adiala jail superintendent, authorities designated the Bani Gala house as a sub-jail for the former first lady’s confinement.

    Both Bushra Bibi and Imran Khan were handed a 14-year jail term by Judge Muhammad Bashir in the Toshakhana case, which pertains to the illegal sale of state gifts.

    In a recent petition, Bushra Bibi expressed her willingness to serve her sentence in ordinary jail premises at Adiala rather than the declared sub-jail at her residence, emphasizing her readiness to undergo punishment like any other political worker of the party.

    Furthermore, she cited concerns about her safety in the solitary confinement of the sub-jail premises, highlighting potential security issues for preferring the ordinary jail premises.

    “While the petitioner is in good health currently, however, there has been a movement of unidentified people in her house declared as a sub-jail by the Government thereby contributing to her sense of insecurity,” the application claimed.

    Bushra Bibi said the “special treatment” afforded to her goes against the spirit of equality guaranteed under the Constitution and is consequently discriminatory.

    Given the stated reasons, the petitioner pleaded with the court to set aside notification to declare her house sub-jail and shift her to Adiala Jail in the “interest of justice”.

  • Local administration can suspend the internet if need be: Murtaza Solangi

    Local administration can suspend the internet if need be: Murtaza Solangi

    Murtaza Solangi, the Caretaker Information Minister, has stated that the government has not given any instructions yet to suspend mobile or internet services on February 8.

    Solangi also stated that the local administration can take any decision as a result of any adverse law and order situation in the area. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) can give directions to internet provider to suspend the internet in a specific area.

    He encouraged the public to use their democratic right to vote, as “it shows their patriotism and their love for democratic continuity in the country.”

  • Electioneering in Sindh – V

    Electioneering in Sindh – V

    In this part, we will discuss candidates’ prospects from Hyderabad division, i.e. Tando Mohammad Khan, and Badin districts. There are four National Assembly (NA) and nine provincial assembly (PA) seats in these three districts of Sindh.

    The PPP’s Syed Naveed Qamar is being challenged by 16 candidates on NA 221, which is the sole NA seat of district Tando Mohammad Khan. His main opponents are Mir Ali Nawaz Talpur of GDA, Ahmed Noonari of Khadmeen-e-Sindh, Mohammad Irfan of PTI and Imtiaz Hussain of MQM-P. Naveed Qamar won this seat in the 2018 elections by securing 76,077 votes, while GDA’s Ali Nawaz Talpur and PTI’s Abdul Jabbar Memon got 45,169 and 15,450 votes respectively. Although the PPP candidate has a lead over his close rival from GDA, an interesting contest is expected here.

    In PS 66, 20 candidates are contesting the polls. Among those, Ali Nawaz Talpur of GDA, M. Javed Rajput of MQM-P, Aijaz Ali of JI, Ambar of JUI-F, Pir Muhammad Ali Sarhandi of TLP, M. Altaf Nizamani of PTI and Syed Aijaz Hussain Shah of the PPP are prominent candidates. PPP’s Aijaz Shah won this seat in 2018 by getting 32,659 votes while Mir Ali Hyder Talpur of GDA and Altaf Nizamani of PTI got 20,736 and 13,801 votes respectively. Although Aijaz Shah seems to be all set for victory, nothing can be said till the announcement of the election results.

    On another PA seat, PS 67, a total of 12 candidates are competing for success. Dr. Qadir Magsi, a nationalist contesting from the platform of Khadmeen-e-Sindh, Khurram Karim Soomro of PPP and Abdul Rahim of PTI are prominent candidates on this seat. Abdul Karim Soomro of PPP, father of the present PPP candidate, previously won this seat by beating Abdul Rahim Katiar of GDA and Abdul Latif Soomro of PTI. Nationalists and supporters of Qadir Magsi are confident that he may pull a surprise.

    Badin is one of the real battlegrounds during the 2024 elections. Two friends turned foes, Asif Zardari and Zulfiqar Mirza, are fighting for electoral supremacy on two NA and five PA seats. Mirza clinched Badin in 2017 local bodies elections but could defend just one NA and one PA seat in the 2018 general election. After the restoration of nomination forms by the court, they are still in a legal battle for getting GDA’s symbol. Until they get their symbols, official GDA candidates are Mir Hussain Bux Talpur, Muhammad Hassam Mirza, Mansoor Ali Nizamani, Mir Abdullah Khan, Hasnain Ali Mirza, Muhammad Hassam Mirza and Ameer Hassan Panhwar on NA 222, 223, PS 68, 69, 70, 71 and 72 respectively. The PPP has fielded five winners of the 2018 elections, one runner-up and one new face, which are Mir Ghulam Ali Talpur, Rasool Bux Chandio, Muhammad Halepoto, Mir Allah Bux Talpur, Arbab Amir Amanullah, Taj Muhammad Mallah and Ismail Rahu on NA 222, 223 PS 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 respectively. A close contest is expected on all constituencies except PS 72 Badin-V, where PPP’s Ismail Rahu is in a better position against GDA’s Ameer Hassan Panhwar.

    There are only one NA and two provincial assembly seats for grabs in Sujawal district. Ayaz Ali Shah Sheerazi of the PPP is up against Molvi Muhammad Saleh Alhadad of JUI-F, Muhammad Ramzan Lashari of MQM, Ghulam Sarwar Khatti of TLP and Mumtaz Ali Shah of PTI on NA 224. PPP’s Ayaz Shah Sheerazi won this seat in 2018 by getting 130,000 votes against MMA’s Molvi Saleh, who got 11,184 votes. On PS 73 Sujawal-I, Hussain Shah Shirazi of PPP, Dhani Dino Jakhro of TLP, Muhammad Ismail Memon of JUI-F, Juman Sindhi of Khadmeen-e-Sindh, Deedar Ali of PTI and Manzoor Ali Mallah of MQM-P are notables. PPP’s Shah Hussain Shirazi won this seat in 2018 and he is the frontrunner in 2024 elections as well. Ghulam Fatma of MQM, Muhammad Ali Malkani of PPP, Najeebullah of JUI-F, Ghulam Sarwar Khatti of TLP, and Muhammad Ashraf Thaheem of Khadmeen-e-Sindh are the main contenders among 15 candidates on PS 74 Sujawal-II. Muhammad Ali Malkani of PPP won this seat in 2018 while TLP’s Ghulam Muhammad Naeemi stood a distant second. PPP’s Malkani is a strong candidate on this seat.