Prime Minister’s sends a cheque of Rs 100 to Senator Aitzaz Ahsan for his priceless services as his lawyer.

  Islamabad: April 30, 2012
 “At the end of the day, it is the people of Pakistan who judge the performance of their government and this right of the people, expressed through their elected representatives in the Parliament, cannot be taken away – should not be allowed to be taken away – from them”, Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said in a letter addressed to Senator Aitzaz Ahsan alongwith a cheque of Rs 100 as fee for his priceless services as his lawyer.

The Prime Minister said that “in representing me, in fact Senator Aitzaz Ahsan were upholding and defending the principle of supremacy of the Constitution which was no small matter, especially in the face of adverse propaganda by some political entities, and relentless bias by a section of the media.”

The Prime Minister further said in the letter, “it is a tribute to your character and wisdom that you stood firm in your arguments, within the court room as well as outside.  Your services to the cause of constitutional rule will be remembered.”

The Prime Minister recalled, “we have been together in our struggle for democracy. We have been through adverse circumstances in pursuit of our principles.  Two of our great leaders laid down their lives in the struggle for democracy and I am sure that our sufferings will not go in vain.”

In his letter, the Prime Minister referred to the book of Ch Aitzaz Ahsan titled “Divided by Democracy” in which he wrote that in the political history of Pakistan not once has the judiciary “invalidated the incumbent regime of a military adventurer”, hoping that some day this will prove to be untrue.

PROTECTION OF LABOUR RIGHTS IMPERATIVE FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: SAYS NA SPEAKER.

            Islamabad; April 30, 2012: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has said that any nation’s economic strength and vigour was determined by the status and standard of living of its labour class and protection of their rights. She said this in her message on May Day being commemorated world over tomorrow.

            Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the labour class plays a vital role in the development progress of a country, therefore, it was essential to ensure their welfare and payment of proper and timely remuneration for their services. The Speaker said that Islam lays a great emphasis on the welfare and proper award of labour. She said that all the civilized societies in the world have legislated to ensure the rights and welfare of t heir labour forces. The Speaker said that the commemoration of May Day is a tribute to all those who sacrificed their lives for labour rights and renewal of determination to ponder and work for betterment of labour class.

            The Speaker said that Pakistan was bless by Allah with enormous labour potential which if properly taped may create huge economic activity in the country. The Speaker said that Pakistani labour force was rendering valuable services and contribution in the economics of other countries and was great source of our foreign exchange earnings. She said that the present democratic government was pursuing labour friendly policies and have made legislation for ensuring welfare of the labour class in the country. She said that policies of the government were continuation of the commitment of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto toward labour class. She said that government had increased the minimum remuneration to the unskilled labour and distributed shares of the public sector companies to their employees. She said that the steps of government have rejuvenated the zeal of the work force beside created their ownership in the public sector companies.

            The Speaker said that the rights and duties go side by side and urged the labour class of the country to work hard with devotion to harness the country’s resources for the prosperity and development of the country and its people.

Vice chancellors/Rectors to Meet Governor of the Punjab

Islamabad: A 29-member delegation of vice chancellors/Rectors and heads of member institutions of Inter University consortium for promotion of social sciences Pakistan         ( IUCPSS)  will meet Governor of the Punjab/Chancellor of universities in the Punjab, Sardar Muhammad Latif Khan Khosa on 30th April 2012 at Governor House Lahore.

During the meeting, the delegation will apprise the Governor about the current problems being confronted by higher education sector in the country. Dr. Javaid R. Laghari Chairperson Higher Education Commission Islamabad and Prof. Dr. Sohail H. Naqvi Executive Director Higher Education Commission will  also be present on the occasion.

Engr. Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gilani Chairperson National Vice Chancellors Committee would brief the Governor Punjab about the joint recommendations of recently held Vice Chancellors Conference at Islamabad which was attended by 130 vice chancellors belonging to public and private sector higher education institutions of Pakistan.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Nizamuddin Chairperson National Committee on Development of Social Sciences and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar Chairperson Inter University Consortium for Promotion of Social Sciences IUCPSS will share the developments related to strengthening of social sciences in Pakistan. In addition to Vice Chancellors and heads of public sector higher education institutions of Punjab, Vice Chancellors from Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, University of Balochistan Quetta, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur and Director Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar will also attend the meeting.

Important statement of supreme court of pakistan

ISLAMABAD APRIL 29
Reference statement of the Federal Law Minister appearing today in the media, taking exception to the letters of Assistant Registrar (Implementation), Supreme Court of Pakistan addressed to the Speaker, National Assembly and Election Commission of Pakistan, etc, it is clarified that all Court orders, without any exception, are forwarded to the concerned authorities/departments for implementation and compliance. Accordingly, two orders dated 26.4.2012 passed in the Criminal Original Petition No. 6/2012 in Suo Moto Case No. 4/2010 (Contempt proceedings against Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, the Prime Minister of Pakistan regarding non-implementation of NRO judgment dated 16.12.2009 reported as Dr. Mobashir Hassan v. Federation of Pakistan (PLD 2010 SC 265)) were duly communicated to the concerned (including above-mentioned) authorities/departments for action/compliance. This is in line with the Supreme Court Rules 1980 and there is nothing irregular or improper in following this procedure.

Acting Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan Mr. Justice Mian Shakirullah Jan visited NADRA Headquarters

ELECTION COMMISSION OF PAKISTAN
            Islamabad, the 28th April, 2012.- The Hon’ble Acting Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan Mr. Justice Mian Shakirullah Jan visited NADRA Headquarters to see the process of revision of the electoral rolls being carried out by the ECP in collaboration with NADRA. His lordship observed the process of scanning of Forms-IV, V and VI, received by NADRA from Election Commission’s field offices as well as the data-entry thereof. Mr. Tariq Malik, Deputy Chairman NADRA also gave a presentation showing the progress so far made towards the scanning and data-entry of the Forms received by them.
2.         The Hon’ble Acting CEC, after briefing from NADRA, emphasized upon the need to expedite the process of data-entry of aforesaid Forms, etc. so as to enable the ECP to finally publish the electoral rolls within the shortest possible time in compliance with the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of Pakistan. His lordship further directed that all out efforts must be made to ensure that discrepancies therein are removed to the maximum.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-

National Judicial Committee asked the concerned authorities to improve the living condition in jails

A two-day meeting of the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee was held on 27-28th April, 2012, in the Committee Room of High Court of Sindh. The Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan/Chairman, National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC) presided over the meeting. In his introductory remarks, the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan stated that provision of expeditious and inexpensive justice to all segments of society is the first and foremost priority of the judiciary as provided in the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan. He further stated that undoubtedly, the Judges are making extra efforts to meet this constitutional requirement and after implementation of National Judicial Policy visible improvements have been noticed in the disposal of cases. He further stated that consistently increasing institution rate speaks about the confidence of the people in the ability of judiciary for resolution their disputes.

The meeting was attended by the Hon’ble Mr. Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Chief Justice of Pakistan/Chairman, NJPMC, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Agha Rafiq Ahmed Khan, Chief Justice, Federal Shariat Court, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Chief Justice, High Court of Balochistan, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Mushir Alam, Chief Justice, High Court of Sindh, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed, Chief Justice, Lahore High Court, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Dost Muhammad Khan, Chief Justice, Peshawar High Court.

Besides, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Iqbal Hameed Ur Rehman, Chief Justice, Islamabad High Court, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of AJ&K, Mr. Justice Rana Muhammad Arshad Khan Chief Judge, Supreme Appellate Court Gilgit-Baltistan, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, Chief Justice, High Court of AJ&K, and Hon’ble Mr. Justice Raja Jalal-Ud-Din, Chief Justice, Chief Court Gilgit-Baltistan attended the meeting as observers on special invitation of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan.

The performance of the District Judiciary was reviewed in the meeting. The statistics presented by the District & Sessions Judges showed that the District Judiciary of all the four provinces performed very well and more than 90% old cases have been decided after enforcement of Policy. The District Judiciary Balochistan in particular did very well. It is currently poised to decide any civil or criminal case within a period of 4 to 6 months from the date of filing of a suit or complaint which is a remarkable achievement. In the same way, the District Judiciary of other provinces and Islamabad has also decided a large number of cases and there are number of Sessions Divisions where no oldest case is pending adjudication. The Committee was informed that at the time of launching National Judicial Policy the judge case ratio was 1:1860 and now after implementation of Policy and strict monitoring the judge case ratio has been decreased considerably. In province of Balochistan the judge case ratio is 1:32 and in Khyber Pukhtonkhawa 1:293, in Sindh 1:309 which is reasonable. In Punjab 1:1020 and Islamabad Capital Territory is 1:1392, though this figure is higher as compare to other provinces; however, considerably less than the pendency when the Policy was launched i.e. 1:1860. It happens due to better performance of Courts. The Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan and Members of the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee highly appreciated the hard work performed by the District Judiciary and praised the District and Sessions Judges of Peshawar, Karachi West, and Islamabad for showing good results.

The Committee observed that it is the obligation of the State to ensure inexpensive and expeditious justice under article 37(d) of the Constitution. Realizing the sensitivity of problems being faced by an ordinary litigant caused due to delay in dispensation of justice. The Committee decided that the number of the judges of the district judiciary be immediately increased in order to allay the concerns of an ordinary litigant and to meet the challenges of growing population and economy. It is further decided that Federal and Provincial Governments shall make financial allocations for increase in the strength of judges including allied staff and related infrastructure in the forthcoming budget.



The Committee observed that another factor for delayed disposal of cases is the scattered Courts of special federal and provincial Tribunals/Courts. Therefore it is decided that such courts/tribunals be conveniently located in single judicial complex in every city. This will provide justice under one-roof for the convenience of the litigant, as well as, the bar and will go a long way in reducing unnecessary delays caused due to lawyers attending to various courts located at different places in a city. Additionally it will also reduce cost borne by the public exchequer.

The Committee observed that cases related to public revenues are not properly pursued which occasioned in losses of public money. The Committee decided that authorities may proceed to recover public revenues where there is no stay order granted by any Court or has expired by efflux of time as provided under Article 199(4A) of the Constitution. It is further decided that efforts shall be made by courts to decide such cases within a period of six months in order to meet the
constitutional requirements. The Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan directed that in next fifteen days all High Courts and District Courts should identify all public revenue cases and fix them for urgent hearing.

It is also decided that all High Courts shall adopt the Case Flow Management System developed by High Court of Sindh subject to further improvement as recommended by NJAC.

The Committee observed that dispensation of justice is most serious affair; therefore, qualitative aspect of disposal should not be over sighted because after all the rights and entitlement of people are sacred and to be determined in accordance with law by applying utmost care and caution. The Committee decided that to ensure quality and speedy justice, on going training and capacity building programs should be launched for judicial officers and other stakeholders of the justice sector.

The Committee noticed that besides other reasons, delay in receipt of forensic reports also causes delay in disposal of criminal cases. Therefore, in order to overcome delay in disposal of criminal cases, well equipped Forensic Science Laboratory(ies) shall be established in each Province and Islamabad Capital Territory.

During the meeting, the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Supreme Court of AJ & K and Chief Judge, Chief Court of Gilgit-Baltistan informed that similar difficulties are being faced by Courts in AJ&K and Gilgit Baltistan. Analyzing the impact of National Judicial Policy on the administration of justice in other provinces of Pakistan, the Hon’ble Chief Justices decided to adopt the National Judicial Policy and other decisions of the NJPMC with necessary modifications.

The Committee also considered the jail inspection reports furnished by the District & Sessions Judges and asked the concerned authorities to improve the living condition in jails and address all the problems highlighted by the District & Sessions Judges during their fortnightly visits.
The Committee also considered the recommendations of Bhurban Conference on Environmental Laws and appreciated the efforts of High Courts regarding establishment of green benches to deal with cases related to environment. The Committee also approved the recommendations of International Judicial Conference held at Islamabad in April, 2012.

CONFERRING OF INTERNATIONAL JURISTS AWARD 2012 ON CHIEF JUSTICE OF PAKISTAN .Award Ceremony is scheduled for 28.05.2012 at London.

Mr. Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan has been bestowed the prestigious and world-renowned “International Jurists Award - 2012” for his lordship’s unique and tremendous contribution in the field of Administration of Justice, which is being awarded by the International Council of Jurists. This Award is in recognition of the tireless and fearless endevours made by the Hon’ble Chief Justice towards Administration of Justice in the country against all odds.
          The Award Ceremony is scheduled for 28.05.2012 at London and the Award will be presented by Rt. Hon. Lord Phillips, President of Supreme Court of the United Kingdom in the presence of Chief Justices, Law Ministers, Members of Parliament, Bar leaders, law teachers and journalists from different countries specially invited for the prestigious occasion.
          The Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan had put up great resistance against the then Military dictator an also led the historical movement of restoration of Judiciary.
.         In the year 2007 Mr. Justice Ifitkhar Muhammd Chaudhry, Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan was also awarded The Medal of Freedom, the higest honour given by the Harvard Law School Association. During the award presenting ceremony Dean Kagan, who presented the Award said that his contribution to the rule of law was inestimable.
The Award is a regular feature of the International Council of Jurists and some of the earlier recipients include Mrs. Justice Rosalyn Higgins, President of International Court of Justice; The Rt. Lord Phillips, Chief Justice of United Kingdom, Ms. Justice Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of Canada; Mr. Justice Awn S. Al-Khasawneh, Vice President of International Court of Justice, etc.

PM GILANI convicted\\Supreme Court Bar Association Of Pakistan, summon the meeting

           ISLAMABAD APRIL 28
Meeting of Executive Committee of Supreme Court Bar Association Of Pakistan will be held on 3rd and 4th may 2012 at Quetta, to consider and discus the prevailing situation of the country after the decision of full bench of Supreme Court on dated 26 April 2012 and issue of Balochistan. Meeting will be preside by Mr. Muhammad Yaseen Azad, President Supreme Court Bar Association.

Microsoft & HEC PAKISTAN,partner to host the Imagine Cup 2012 Pakistan finals

Islamabad, April 27, 2012: Bringing together the sharpest minds in the field of technology, Microsoft Pakistan, in partnership with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), hosted the local finals of the Imagine Cup. This is the world’s premier student technology competition, where all eligible students use their imagination and passion to create a technological solution. Marking its tenth year, Microsoft is holding the Worldwide Finals of the Imagine Cup in Sydney, Australia early July. The local leg of this nail-biting competition was held at the Islamic University, Faisal Mosque Campus, Islamabad, where Team CELOKS proved to be the lucky winner, chosen to represent Pakistan in the Worldwide Finals in Sydney. Their project SEED was about donating left over food to the needy through Windows Phone Application.
Regional finals for the Imagine Cup were held in the HEC regional centers in Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore, with 46 teams getting a chance to showcase their completed projects to a diversified panel of judges from the academic and professional sector. The projects were discussed, students questioned, ranked and ultimately a total of 12 teams were selected for the final. The Executive Director, HEC, Dr. Sohail Naqvi emphasized, “For Microsoft and HEC, this is another opportunity for us to highlight our commitment to supporting student talent in technology development to create advanced IT skills across the region.” Microsoft has a long-term commitment to support Pakistan in developing IT education through the provision and promotion of most modern technologies and methodologies.
In addition to the Imagine Cup, the MEA (Middle East & Africa) Windows Phone 7 Challenge sponsored by Dell Corporation was also held on the same day in Pakistan for the first time. Three teams participated, two from Pakistan and one from Egypt, where entries were received to develop Windows Phone 7 compatible applications. It is a moment of great pride that out of 79 countries, students from Pakistan have bagged the first spot. The proud winner from Pakistan was Team ICES who showcased their application called Intelligent Computing Engine designed to solve complex mathematical, engineering and industrial computations.
Through supporting such initiatives and by furthering student competitions in the country, the HEC played a vital role in making the local final of the Imagine Cup competition a success. Speaking at the occasion, Kamal Ahmed, Country Manager Microsoft Pakistan said, “Microsoft hosts this competition each year in different countries, the idea being that today’s advancement in technology along with the imagination, passion and creativity that students have, can light up a better future for the generations to come.” The campaign kicked off in October 2011, where students from the public and private sector universities participated very enthusiastically: a total of 11000+ registrations were seen during the first three months.
About Microsoft
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Pakistan wanted a relationship with the US based on mutual respect and mutual interest Prime Minister Gilani

Islamabad:  April 27, 2012
 The US delegation led by Ambassador Marc Grossman, Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani at the PM’s House today. Both sides discussed the whole gamut of bilateral relations including cooperation in the war on terror in accordance with the resolution of the Parliament which spells out the new terms of engagement between Pakistan and the US.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan attached high importance to its relations with the United States.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need of building partnership between Pakistan and the United States to achieve shared objective of bringing peace and stability in Afghanistan which in turn, would strengthen peace and stability in the region.

The Prime Minister said the Pakistani has the commitment and resolve to confront the forces of terrorism and extremism with the support of the public. The Prime Minister sensitized the US delegation about enhancing national capacity to meet this challenge.

The Prime Minister referred to his meeting with the US President on the sidelines of Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul who had agreed with him on the criticality of streamlining the relations between the two countries to achieve the common goals.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan wanted a relationship with the US based on mutual respect and mutual interest.

Mr Marc Grossman agreed with the Prime Minister that it was of fundamental importance to build a partnership based on mutual respect and mutual interests including respect for territorial integrity  of both the countries.

He agreed with the Prime Minister that partnership with Pakistan was critically important to establish peace and security in the region.

He further said that there was a dire need to improve perception about each other through public diplomacy.  He said that the US greatly valued democratic Pakistan led by elected leadership.

US Ambassador in Pakistan Mr Cameron Munter and US Assistant Secretary for Asia and Pacific Security Affairs Dr Peter Lavoy assisted Marc Grossman in talks.

The Pakistani side consisted of Minister for Defence Ch Ahmad Mukhtar, Minister for Interior Senator A Rehman Malik, Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms Hina Rabbani Khar, Pakistan Ambassador in USA Ms Sherry Rehman, Senator Syeda Sughra Hussain Imam, Secretary Defence, Secretary Foreign Affairs and other senior officers.
______________

Drone attacks were highly counter productive in the war against militants , President Asif Ali Zardari Talks Ambassador Grossman

Islamabad, 27 April 2012:
President Asif Ali Zardari has said that after Pak side has followed the democratic course for the re-engagement with the United States to be based on transparency, mutual interest and respect, it was now the US turn to fully appreciate the democratic course and to help Pakistan in reaching closure on Salala by helping the Pakistan Government follow the path as indicated by the Parliament.
This he said during his meeting with Ambassador Marc Grossman, US Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, here at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.
Ambassador Grossman was accompanied by Mr. Cameron Munter, US Ambassador, Dr. Peter Lavoy, Assistant Secretary for Asia & Pacific Security Affairs and other officials.
Pak side included Defence Minister Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Finance Minister Dr. Hafeez Sheikh, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Secretary General Mr. Salman Faruqui, Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Ambassador Sherry Rehman, Foreign Secretary Mr. Jalil Abbass Jilani, DG ISI Lt. Gen Zaheer-ul-Islam and Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar besides other senior officials.
Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar while briefing about the meeting said that during meeting the President emphasized upon the need for evolving a mechanism for counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries. He said that bridging the trust-deficit holds the key to Pakistan re-joining the counter-terrorism cooperation.
Pakistan and the United States, the President said, share many important areas where there was convergence of mutual interests. He said that most notable among those were the goals of stability and peace in Afghanistan and the complete defeat of Al-Qaeda.
The President said that Pakistan has always maintained that drone attacks were highly counter productive in the war against militants as it inflamed public sentiments due to innocent civilian casualties. He said that both the sides should consider setting up a framework of mechanism to find a mutually acceptable alternatives.
He said that Pakistan wanted to re-engage with the US at all levels in the light of the Parliamentary review. He said that Pakistan was committed to providing assistance to the international presence in Afghanistan. However, the international community should share the financial and economic cost of services and goods involved in the process. The President said that with Defence Committee of the Cabinet proceedings underway, we have already initiated inter-agency consultation process and broad parameters have been developed for an agreement on ISAF/NATO supplies through Pakistan.
The President also emphasized upon early resolution of the issue of reimbursement of CSF arrears. He said that CSF reimbursements were a sticking point in the relationship which needed to be addressed urgently
He said that Pakistan needs more attention in the areas of energy generation, infrastructure development, water management and social and human development.
The President also invited delegation attention towards Pakistan’s need for more market access for its products in the US market through preferential trade tariff.
He said that there was a need to refocus on reinvigorating the Strategic Dialogue process as this Dialogue was mainstay of our bilateral relations.
Discussing regional situation, the President reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance to support intra-Afghan and Afghan-led reconciliation process in Afghanistan.
Other issues of important concern for Pakistan such as drug trafficking also came under discussion.
Ambassador Grossman thanked the President for meeting and said that the United States respected the Parliamentary process of overview of relationship. He said that US wanted to work with Pakistan and expressed the hope that the bilateral relations would soon be back to normal.

IF YOU DARE BRING NO CONFIDENCE MOTION AGAINST ME ,PM GILANI/ / NO ONE CAN STOP HIM TO ATTEND THE SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, PAK PRIME Speaking in the National Assembly

  ISLAMABAD APRIL 27
 Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said nobody can disqualify him except the Speaker of the National Assembly‚ through the prescribed procedure in the Constitution.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Friday he said if parliament declared him disqualified he would accept that decision. He said the parliament is supreme and all decisions will be taken in it. All institutions derive strength from the parliament.
Referring to the remarks of the leader of the opposition in National Assembly yesterday‚ the Prime Minister said no one can stop him to attend the session of the house. He said if some one wants to remove him then they should bring no confidence motion against him in the house. He said he cannot be removed through conspiracies. He said he is the elected Prime Minister of 180 million people. He said the victory of a PPP candidate in Multan yesterday clearly shows that public still support them. He said the public vote is more powerful and we are here because of them.
Prime Minister Gilani said he was not sentenced by the Supreme Court on the charges of corruption or any crime. His crime is that he protected the Constitution of Pakistan. He said Pakistan Peoples Party is the creator of the 1973 constitution. We restored it and we will protect it. We will never work against the constitution.
The Prime Minister said his party worked with the PML-N not to derail the democracy and signed Charter of Democracy. He said with the departure of Mian Nawaz Sharif abroad the democracy suffered but we continued to protect it. He said we are equally distributing developmental funds to all parties without any discrimination.
Referring to the yesterday's judgement of the Supreme Court‚ Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that Law Minister and his counsel have clarified all the questions regarding the judgement. He said we will file an appeal against judgement.
He said all the Presidents enjoy immunity under the Vienna Convention. This an international law which is applicable throughout the world.
The Prime Minister said that they have strengthened the institutions and not weakened them. They were further strengthened through the 18th amendment. He said the politics of reconciliation should not be taken as weakness of the government.

PAKISTAN-POLAND TO BOOST COOPERATION

Senate Secretariat
CHAIRMAN SENATE  SEEKS ENHANCED MARKET ACCESS AND ENERGY SECTOR INVESTMENT
Islamabad: 27th April, 2012
Chairman Senate Syed Nayyar Hussain Bokhari has said that Pakistan and Poland enjoy close and cordial relations that are marked by convergence of views on issues of mutual interest. “Enormous potential exists to further strengthen our relations in various fields including trade, investment, defence, science and technology and people to people contacts”. He was expressing these views in a meeting with Ambassador of Poland Dr. Andrzej Ananicz at Parliament House today.

The Polish Ambassador while talking about Pakistan-Poland relations told the Chairman that this year we are going to celebrate 50th anniversary of establishment of our diplomatic relations and this is a special occasion to commemorate our history ties. Dr. Andrzej also informed the Chairman that Polish Parliamentary delegation is going to visit Pakistan very soon and reciprocating it with Pakistan’s Parliamentary delegation will prove to be very fruitful for enhancing understanding and cooperation.

Chairman Bokhari said that there should be frequent exchanges of Parliamentary and other delegations from different spheres of life for increasing cooperation and assistance to each other for mutual benefit. He expressed satisfaction on the presence of Pak-Poland Parliamentary Friendship Groups in their respective Parliaments which should play their role actively.

The Chairman also emphasized the need for enhancing bilateral trade volume and increasing investment particularly in energy sector to help resolving the current energy crisis in the country.

The Ambassador told the Chairman that Pak-Poland trade volume has crossed over US $ 100 million in 2010-11 which has almost tripped over the last 4 years but potential for further increase definitely exists. He apprised the Chairman regarding usage of coal and shale gas by utilization of latest technologies for generation of electricity. Poland gets 80% of its electricity from coal and Pakistan has enormous coal reserves which can be used to generate gas and electricity. He offered his assistance in this capacity.

While talking about terrorism the Chairman said Pakistan has rendered great sacrifices for sake of world peace and regional peace and stability. In this hour of need Pakistan requires support of his European friends as well. EU should provide free market access to Pakistani products.

The Ambassador told Chairman Bokhari that the world acknowledges Pakistan’s sacrifices and EU will remove custom duties on textile products from Pakistan by July in the first phase. He also told the Chairman the EU countries including Poland are already assisting in IDP resettlement/rehabilitation at various places in Pakistan which were displaced due to war on terror. He told the Chairman that tourism can flourish in Pakistan with improving security situation, facilitating tourists and improving communications networks.

Talking about recent Supreme Court verdict against Prime Minister, the Ambassador said avoiding clash between different institutions for the sake of state and people is right way to move forward.

The Chairman Bokhari told that this is the first time in history of Pakistan that we have long serving Prime Minister and we are in process of strengthening democracy and democratic institutions and continuity of democratic process will ensure political stability, lasting progress and ultimate prosperity for the people of Pakistan.    

********************

NA BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPROVED THE CALENDAR FOR THE 5TH PARLIAMENTARY YEAR

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT
            Islamabad; April 27, 2012: Dr. Fehmida Mirza Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of Business Advisory Committee in the Parliament House to discuss the Business of the House for 41st Session of the National Assembly.

After thorough discussion, it was decided that the 41st Session of the National Assembly will continue till 4 May, 2012. It was decided that debate on Adjournment Motion regarding Bhoja Plane Crash will be held on Monday followed by discussion on President’s Address to the Parliament. The Committee also discussed and approved the Calendar for the 5th Parliamentary year of the National Assembly.

The meeting was attended by Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker, Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Religious Affairs, Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Water & Power, Mr. Farooq H. Naek, Minister for Law and Justice, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Minister for Information Technology, Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Minister for Professional and Technical Training, MNAs; Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Rana Tanveer, Hussain,  Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Dr. Abdul Kadir Khanzada and Ms. Jamila Gilani,

PAKISTANI POLITICAL AND ARMY LEADERSHIP discussed.rules of re-engagements with US in accordance with the resolution of the Parliament

ISLAMABAD APRIL 26
A meeting chaired by Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani here at PM’s House this evening, attended by Mr. Rehman Malik, Interior Minister, Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Minister for Finance, General Ashfaq Pervez Kiyani, Chief of the Army Staff, Ms. Sherry Rehman, Pakistan Ambassador to USA, Lt. General Zahirul Islam, DG ISI, Foreign Secretary and the Finance Secretary, in which security situation and reconciliation process in Afghanistan and rules of re-engagements with US in accordance with the resolution of the Parliament were discussed.

BUREAUCRATS visited the Election Commission of Pakistan

Islamabad, the 26th April, 2012:- A group of 76 senior officers of the 96th National Management Course (NMC) visited the Election Commission of Pakistan on their inland study tour today. The delegation was led by Mr. Ismail Qureshi, Rector of the National School of Public Policy (NSPP). The Hon’ble Acting Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan, Mr. Justice Mian Shakirullah Jan welcomed the participants and a detailed presentation was given to them on the role and responsibilities of the ECP as well as the new initiatives taken by it in order to improve the Electoral Processes in Pakistan.
2-         The Hon’ble CEC informed the participants about the efforts being made by the ECP regarding revision of the electoral rolls and its final publication within the shortest possible time. The participants appreciated all the efforts made by the ECP. The meeting ended with the vote of thanks to and from the Hon’ble CEC.

PROCEDURE LAID DOWN IN THE CONSTITUTION FOR THE REMOVAL OF A PRIME MINISTER ,, PRESIDENCY

PPP ANNOUNCES ,, appropriate response to PM’s conviction by SC
ISLAMABAD APRIL 26
The senior leadership of Pakistan Peoples Party has decided to give a considered and appropriate response to the conviction of the Prime Minister by the Supreme Court
A meeting of the senior leadership of the PPP has decided to give a robust‚ considered and appropriate response to the new challenges with great political maturity and wisdom on the one hand and firmness on the other and employing all democratic and constitutional means available.
It was jointly presided over by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani.
Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar said that at the outset the Defence Council Aitzaz Ahsan briefed the meeting on the short order of the Supreme Court on Thursday.
After discussing the short order the meeting expressed dismay that an elected Prime Minister of the country had been sentenced for upholding the Constitution and supremacy of the Parliament.
It also noted with disappointment that while no dictator had been punished for suspension and abrogation of the Constitution a democratically and unanimously elected Prime Minister had been sentenced for upholding the Constitution.
It expressed concern over attempts to dismiss an elected government and an elected Prime Minister.
The meeting expressed complete solidarity with the Prime Minister and declared that Yusuf Raza Gilani was the elected Prime Minister of the country and could be removed only in accordance with the procedure laid down in the Constitution for the removal of a Prime Minister.
The meeting congratulated the Prime Minister for standing up withy dignity‚ grace and courage for defending the Constitution and upholding the supremacy of the Constitution.
The meeting expressed resolve of the Party that it will not be deterred from continuing its struggle for upholding the Constitution‚ the Parliament and the rule of law.
It called upon the defence team to study the full order of the Court as and when it becomes available and give its considered opinion on whether and when to file an appeal against the verdict.
Earlier a meeting was also held with coalition partners. It was attended among others by Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain‚ Ch. Pervaz Ilahi‚ Senator Afrasiab Khattak‚ Dr. Farooq Sattar‚ Mr. Babar Ghouri‚ Senator Mir Israrullah Zehri‚ Haji Khuda Baksh Rajar‚ Mr. Munir Khan Orakzai and Senator Abbas Khan Afridi.
The meeting of the coalition partners congratulated the Prime Minister over his stance in defending the Constitution and expressed complete solidarity with and support to the Prime Minister.
The President thanked the coalition partners for their support to strengthen the political system and standing behind the Prime Minister in upholding the Constitution. The President appreciated the stance of the coalition partners to uphold the rule of law instead of seeking political power.

President Zardari calls PM, congratulates on PPP's candidate win‏ by-elections of PP-194 in Multan

.Islamabad, 26 April 2012
President Asif Ali Zardari has called Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani congratulating him on the victory of PPP candidate, Mr. Usman Bhatti in the by-elections of PP-194 in Multan.

The President during his telephonic conversation said that the win is a demonstration of confidence of the people in PPP and recognition of your leadership.

"The people of PP-194 have given their verdict in the favour of the Party and the PM." The President said.

He said that the verdict of the people was weightier than any other verdict.

The President asked the PM to conveyed his felicitation to Mr. Usman Bhatti and to the local Party leadership for successfully organizing the election campaign.

The President also said that he was confident that PPP will always emerge victorious in the court of the people.

Prime Minister thanked the President for the felicitation.

CONTEMPT CASE/ SPECIAL SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS IN SUPREME COURT BUILDING ON 26.04.2012

  Islamabad, the 26th April, 2012
     Due to the prevalent security threats and the hearing of an important case, it has become necessary to take adequate security measures for safety/security in the Supreme Court premises and decorum of Court proceedings, therefore, the following security measures have been taken and will be strictly implemented on 26.4.2012: -
1.                Entry in the Supreme Court premises will be allowed only to those persons whose cases are fixed in the Court, no other/un-authorized person will be allowed entry in the Court premises.
2.                 Entry in the Court premises will be subject to the production of Court notices or entry pass alongwith photo identity.
3.                 Briefcases, Cameras, Cell phones and any other baggage will be deposited at the reception, as the same cannot be carried inside the Court building.
4.                 Entry will be subject to search/frisking and passing the walk through gates.
5.                 For entry in Court No.4 (Special Bench hearing the contempt matter against the PM) will be allowed only to the parties in the case, their Counsels and other persons subject to the production of entry passes, issued by the Supreme Court administration. Entry of the authorized media persons will also be subject to the production of the entry pass.

     We expect all concerned to follow the instructions and cooperate with the security staff on duty in the Court premises. The security personnel have been directed to deal with the litigant parties and their learned counsel with courtesy, dignity and in a decent and civilized manner.

 PRESS RELEASE

CHAIRMAN SENATE FOR MORE COMMERCE, TRADE LINKS BETWEEN PAKISTAN AND AZERBAIJAN

Islamabad: 26th April, 2012
Chairman Senate, Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari has underlined the need for more cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan in fields of commerce and trade besides exploring new avenues of collaboration to work for the benefit of the people. He expressed these views while talking to Mr. Dashgin Mazi Oglu Shikarov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan who called on him at the Parliament House today.

Chairman said that Pakistan highly values its close brotherly ties with Azerbaijan which are based on deep historical, cultural and religious commonalities. He further said that both Islamabad and Baku should work together to build a strong mutually beneficial partnership through cooperation in the economic, commercial, cultural, defence and other fields. He also called for enhancing interaction among the Parliamentarian to boost inter-parliamentary relations and encouraging people-to-people contacts.

The Chairman Senate observed that both the countries have supported each other on various regional and international issues and have evolved principled positions on issues of Kashmir and Nagorno-Karabakh. The Chairman Senate expressed the desire to increase trade volume as there is huge scope for improvement in bilateral trade.

Ambassador of Azerbaijan thanked the Chairman Senate for the sentiments. He said that bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is getting momentum with passage of time. He agreed with the views of Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari that both the countries have to work closer to strengthen trade and economic ties. Exchange of delegations at different levels will provide an opportunity to learn from each others’ experience and sharing of expertise, Mr. Dashgin added.

He further stated that both Pakistan and Azerbaijan are non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, playing an active role and supporting each other on matters of mutual significance.

He appreciated the support of Government, Parliament and people of Pakistan on the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh and said that the Government of Azerbaijan fully supports Pakistan’s stance of Kashmir issue.The Ambassador also conveyed best wishes on behalf of the Speaker of Parliament of Azerbaijan and presented letter of invitation to Chairman Senate to visit Azerbaijan.

The Chairman Senate expressed his best wishes to the Government and people of Azerbaijan and hoped that the relationship between the two would usher into a new era of development and prosperity. ***********************************************  

PAKISTAN-ARGENTINE SHOULD ENHANCE COOPEARION IN DIFFERENT FIELDS:

Senate Secretariat
Islamabad: 26th April, 2012
Chairman Senate Syed Nayyar Hussain Bokhari has said Pakistan highly values its friendly ties with Republic of Argentine and we must enhance our cooperation in political sphere, trade and investment and other fields of mutual interest via frequent exchange of delegations. He was expressing these views in a meeting with H.E. Mr. Rodolfo J. Martin Saravia, Ambassador of Argentine at Parliament House today.

Talking about the relations between the two countries, Argentine Ambassador Rodolfo agreed with the Chairman that we must extract maximum benefits of our relations by increasing cooperation and people to people contacts. He said that particularly exchange of Parliamentary delegations and Parliamentary dialogue is very fruitful exercise leading to positive developments. He also informed the Chairman that Pakistan and Argentine have successfully integrated their Parliamentary Friendship Group and their visits and exchanges will start this year.

The Chairman also deliberated upon Pakistan’s sacrifices in both men and material terms to curb terrorism for the sake of peace and stability of the whole world. He said that Pakistan can not unilaterally fight war on terror and needs world s’ support particularly our friends.

Responding, Argentine Ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s role in fight against terrorism and said that the world acknowledges Pakistan’s sacrifices in this regard.  Developments in Afghanistan are very crucial for regional peace and stability and affect Pakistan as well. He expressed hope that things will move towards right direction. Ambassador Rodolfo told the Chairman that Argentine has also been a victim of terrorism.
Bokhari apprised the Ambassador about bicameral legislature in Pakistan comprising of National Assembly and Senate. He told him that Senate represents federation and has equal representation from whole of Pakistan. After the passage of 18th Constitutional Amendment minorities have been given 4 seats in the Upper House as we want harmony between different religions and sects in Pakistan.

Ambassador informed the Chairman that in near future Pakistani Foreign Minister is likely to visit Argentine which will be reciprocated by her counterpart. It will be a turning point for further engagements and enhancing cooperation in diverse fields ranging from trade, science and technology and will trigger frequent exchange of delegations from both sides.


Talking about Argentine’s dispute with UK regarding Falkland Islands, he told the Chairman that we are grateful for Pakistan’s support on this issue and hope this will continue in future as well. He expressed the desire that members of Parliament’s foreign relations committees from both sides should also have interaction and close contacts. He said Argentine is cognizant of Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India and wishes its peaceful resolution via dialogue.

The Chairman thanked for support on Kashmir issue and said that dialogue on negotiation table and a forum can prove fruitful for peaceful resolution of disputes as war is no solution.

Ambassador Rodolfo also presented a book titled “Pakistan’s Golden Thrones: an Argentine Journey by Tommy Heinrich” produced by Embassy of the Argentine Republic in Pakistan that vividly shows beauty of the country particularly in the northern regions.

The Chairman thanked the Ambassador for this token of love and called it symbol of strong bonds of friendship existing between the two friendly countries. He said that this book shows the interest and love of Argentinean people for Pakistan.

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Women Basketball Championship 2012 to Begin on Friday

 

The 16th National Women Basketball Championship 2012, being organized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), will open on Friday at Hamidi Hall of Pakistan Sports Board, Islamabad.

Departmental and provincial teams are taking part in the Championship. Mr. Anees ul Hasnain Musvi, Secretary, Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) will be the chief guest in the opening ceremony.

WAPDA will defend its title in the Championship, which will be held under the supervision of qualified referees of Pakistan Basketball Federation. Closing ceremony will be held on 1st May, 2012 at Bahria University Islamabad.

 

Supreme Court convicts PM Gilani Independent Judiciary has given a gift to the nation by indicting a powerful person ,,SAYES IMRAN KHAN

Islamabad: April 13, 2012


Today the independent Judiciary has given a gift to the nation by indicting a powerful person. The government coalition is effectively a corruption union. Chairman PTI Imran Khan called on the Prime Minister to immediately resign from office and reiterated that if the Prime Minister would not respect the judiciary, how the people could be expected to do the same. It was disappointing sight to see the coalition march in step with the Prime Minister to the Supreme Court. They had not gone to court to protect national interest but they all wanted to escape accountability. They are well aware that an accountability drive is initiated they will be caught in corruption cases. Government coalition is a corruption union which is hell bent to fill its own coffers.


Imran Khan declared the protests of the PPP against the Court’s decision a shameful act and declared that it was a historic day for the courts when they indicted a powerful person. It is the first time that the biggest robbers of the country have been brought to justice which is why they have all joined together. I congratulate the entire nation and particularly the lawyer community because their struggle for an independent judiciary has paid off today. He further stated that even though some government partners were with the PTI in the struggle for restoration of judiciary but now due to their support for the status quo, they are standing with Gillani. The leader of the PTI warned that if the Judiciary was pressured in anyway, the party would initiate an unprecedented protest in the country’s history. When the tsunami marches towards Islamabad, they will all know which the nation is standing on. Imran Khan addressed the Prime Minister as “Mr. Gillani” and stated that he is no longer the current PM of the country. He stated that Gillani indulged in contempt of court to protect the corrupt of the President. He stated that in order to oblige the NAB Chairman, the corrupt government allocated him a piece of land.


Referring to Article 204 of the Constitution, senior PTI leader Hamid Ali Khan dismissed Aitzaz Ahsan’s statement that ‘scandalization of court’ was not part of the indictment.

U.S. Embassy Announces Professional Journalism Training For Pakistani journalists

The U.S. Embassy has invited award-winning journalist Sherry Ricchiardi, a professor at Indiana University School of Journalism to lead a series of day-long trainings for Pakistani journalists, which will be held in mid-May in Islamabad. Journalists who have worked in the field for one-to-three years are invited to apply.   Please complete the attached application form by May 1. Submit to: infoisb@state.gov. 

The training will focus on:

-         Journalist ethics

-         Investigative journalism

-         Source development

-         Reporting from conflict zones

-         Basic techniques for well-written stories

Biography of Sherry Ricchiardi, Ph.D

Award-winning journalist Sherry Ricchiardi, Ph.D., has trained journalists around the world, including Pakistan, Yemen, Indonesia, China and Kyrgyzstan.

She worked in Pakistan in 2010 and has conducted workshops for Pakistani journalists for the International Center for Journalists in Washington, D.C.

Ricchiardi is a senior writer for the American Journalism Review, specializing in international issues, and a professor at the Indiana University School of Journalism. She has written stories for AJR on media coverage of conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan, interviewing dozens of correspondents on assignment there.

She serves on the advisory committee of the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma at Columbia University and has conducted safety training for media working in conflict zones.

Ricchiardi was an investigative reporter and Sunday magazine writer for the Des Moines Register, the largest newspaper in Iowa.  She later became city editor for the Columbia Missourian, a newspaper produced at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, her alma mater.  She received her Ph.D. in 1986 from Iowa State University.

She has won the top National Press Club award for press criticism twice, including stories about violence against journalists in the West Bank, Afghanistan and Iraq.  She has won numerous awards for excellence in teaching at Indiana University.

 

U.S. Embassy Journalist Training Application Form

Applications due Wednesday, May 2 at5 p.m.  Please submit by email to: infoisb@state.gov

Name: _______________________________________________________________________

Phone Number: __________________________ Email: _______________________________

Organization: _________________________________________________________________

Title (Reporter, Editor, etc.):_____________________________________________________

Experience in Journalism: ______________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Why you are interested in this training: ___________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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5 KEY MEASURES TO RESOLVE KARACHI,,S UNREST

Islamabad, April 25; In view of the worsening law and order situation in Karachi, the Democracy Assessment Group convened by PILDAT conducted a fact-finding mission to Karachi on April 15, 2012. Based on the important points raised by various stakeholders during extensive discussions, the Group has recommended 5 key measures to resolve unrest in Karachi:
Only a few elements attempt to create ethnic and sectarian conflict in Karachi. The overwhelming majority of the city's residents are devoted to peace and harmony between all communities. The Provincial Government should take strong action to deter all divisive elements.
As 3 major political parties are members of the Provincial coalition Government, they bear special responsibility to end the criminalization of politics in the city.
Recruitment, postings and promotions in regard to public services should be made free of all political interference.
The absence of an elected local government in Karachi is a reflection of the nation-wide vacuum of the essential third-tier of democracy. In fulfillment of the Constitutional requirement, the Sindh Assembly, along with other Provincial Assemblies, must coordinate to prepare comprehensive Local Government legislation to establish effective elected Local Governments.
In view of Karachi's unique demographic identity, the Election Commission of Pakistan should take special measures to ensure free, fair and transparent Elections at all three tiers in Karachi.
Members of the Democracy Assessment Group who visited Karachi under the chairmanship of Mr. Illahi Bukhsh Soomro, former Speaker, National Assembly, included Mr. Omar Khan Afridi, former Caretaker Minister, Mr. Iftikhar Ahmed, Senior Journalist, Mr. Cyril Almeida, Analyst, Senator Mir Hasil Bizenjo, Vice President of the National Party, Dr. Ijaz Shafi Gilani, Chairman Gallup, Pakistan, Mr. Javed Hafeez, former Ambassador, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Moinuddin Haider, former Governor Sindh; former Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. Shahid Hamid, senior Advocate Supreme Court of Pakistan, former Governor Punjab, Sardar Khalid Ibrahim, politician, Mr. Javed Jabbar, former Senator; Federal Minister for Media Development, Mr. Wazir Ahmed Jogezai, former Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Talat Masood, defence Analyst, Mr. Ghazi Salahuddin, Analyst, Dr. Mohammad Waseem, Academician, Mr. Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Executive Director, PILDAT, Ms. Aasiya Riaz, Joint Director, PILDAT. Members of the Group who also endorsed the recommendations included Justice (Retd.) Manzoor Gilani, former Chief Justice of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Mr. Iqbal Zafar Jhagra, Secretary General PML-N.
PRESS RELEASE

Senior Bureaucrats visit Parliament House,Secretary Senate briefs

SENATE SECRETARIAT
  Islamabad, 25th April, 2012
Participants of the 96th National Management Course visited Parliament House here today. Secretary Senate, Mr. Iftikharullah Babar briefed the senior officer about working and performance of both the Houses of Parliament including the role played by them in oversight of the Executive and their contribution in informed policy-making.

He said the role of Parliament has changed the world over and now  they are not mere legislative bodies but play a multifaceted role. Parliament can debate any issue national and international significance which has a direct or indirect impact on our foreign policy. Our parliament is vibrant and its Committees are effective, the Secretary said while replying to a question from a participant.

He also gave a detailed overview of the importance of Parliamentary system in nation-building and the role of Upper House in promoting national cohesion    and harmony among the federating units. Mr. Iftikharullah Babar comprehensively answered the questions asked by the participants regarding Senate and its various functions.
At the end, the delegation presented a memento to Secretary Senate and thanked him for cordial and warm welcome extended to them during their visit to the Senate of Pakistan.
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Pakistani Citizens Group calls for Urgent Actions to Prepare for Fair Elections

April 25; The Citizens Group on Electoral Process (CGEP), convened by PILDAT, has expressed concern at the delay in appointing a permanent full time Chief Election Commissioner. Instead of initiating the consultative process for appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner before the expiry of the term of the CEC on March 23, 2012, even after the lapse of over a month afterwards, it is not known whether the Prime Minister has formally sent three names to the Parliamentary Committee in consultation of the Leader of the Opposition. Even though an acting Chief Election Commissioner is in office, it is inexplicable as to why both the Government and the Opposition are delaying on developing a consensus on the crucial appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan.

The Group also questioned why there is a delay in the appointment of the new Secretary of the Election Commission of Pakistan. The outgoing Secretary relinquished his charge on March 28, 2012. In keeping with the independence of the ECP, its rules define that the Secretary must be appointed by the Election Commission. This rule was not followed when the outgoing Secretary was appointed by the Prime Minister in September 2009, instead of by the Commission. The Group demanded that the Election Commission must move swiftly to appoint a suitable Secretary.

Concern was also expressed at the use of State resources for what is clearly de-facto early election campaign by the President and Chief Ministers even before the commencement of the date of the polls. These tendencies violate the norms and rules of free and fair elections. The office of the President, as per article 41 of the Constitution symbolises the unity of the Federation. The incumbent Chief Ministers enjoy the advantages which come with the public office. Neither the President, nor the Governors and Chief Ministers of the Provinces, should use the public exchequers to promote partisan political purposes. The Group also called on the ECP to carefully monitor this early election campaign to ensure that the spirit of the laws and rules for fair elections are not violated.

The Citizens Group expressed its dissatisfaction at the progress on the preparation of error-free computerised Electoral Rolls by the Election Commission. Major errors have been pointed out by the political parties in the rolls, noted the Group with apprehension, and urged the ECP to make public the objections and issues raised by the public and the parties during the display period. In the Group's own analysis of the display of draft electoral rolls in terms of response from the citizens as well as lack of adequate staffing and responsiveness of the staff at the Display Centres, the exercise has been less than effective.

The Group questioned the effectiveness of the door-to-door verification exercise undertaken by the ECP, at the huge cost to public exchequer, when according to NADRA figures, 91.4 % voters are registered at their permanent address in the rolls. This has resulted in de-facto disenfranchisement of a large number of citizens especially in areas such as Karachi whose present address might have been the preferred address for voting. The Group demanded that the Election Commission must rectify the errors forthwith and initiate criminal proceedings against individuals and elements who have wilfully influenced the process of the preparation of electoral rolls by impersonation and filing for change of address on behalf the voters.

The Group also demanded that the Election Commission must adhere to the deadline of May 27, 2012 for completing the computerised electoral rolls. The Group called upon the Election Commission to engage with the political parties to rectify issues identified by the parties in the Electoral Rolls. The Group also demanded that the final electoral rolls must be placed on the Election Commission's website.

Discussing the issue of lack of clarity on the future registration of voters, the Citizens Group has suggested that a process should be put in place immediately through which new CNIC holders should automatically be added to the Voters List. The NADRA CNIC form must be modified to note preference of voting address of each citizen at the time of making of the identification card.

The Citizens Group appealed to the citizens to involve themselves in a more effective manner in the preparation of error-free and credible electoral rolls. The Group also urged the Pakistan Television Corporation, Radio Pakistan as well as private media houses to devote time and effort to broadcast public awareness messages on using the right to vote as an important instrument to improve accountability and governance.

Reviewing progress on Election Commission's 5 year Strategic Plan, the Group pointed out that a strategic goal of the Election Commission should also be to ensure effective coordination with the Provincial Governments to conduct free, fair and credible elections in Pakistan.

The Group discussed the question of discrepancy in the increase in housing blocks across the country. The Group expressed its grave concern on the manner in which the Housing Census has been conducted. The Housing census contains an absolutely inexplicable increase of 67% in the number of census blocks in Sindh, as compared to 10% increase in Balochistan. In the other two provinces the increase is also less than the estimated population since the last 1998 census. The Group called on the Population Census Organisation to rectify the errors. The Group also proposed to NADRA to include block codes and circle codes on CNICs. Since the Population Census will be the basis of new demarcation of constituencies in Pakistan, the Group urged the Federal and Provincial Governments to create necessary conditions to conduct Population Census in an effective and politically non-partisan manner.

The Citizens Group met under the chairmanship of Justice (Retd.) Saeed-uz-Zaman Siddiqui, former Chief Justice of Pakistan, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Moinuddin Haider, former Federal Minister for Interior, former Governor Sindh, Mr. Shahid Hamid, Senior Advocate Supreme Court, former Governor Punjab, former Federal Caretaker Minister, Mr. Fasih Iqbal, Editor-in-Chief Balochistan Times, former Senator, Mr. Javed Jabbar, former Senator and Federal Minister, Mr. Arif Nizami, Editor Pakistan Today, Mr. Tasneem Noorani, former Federal Secretary Interior, Mr. Ghazi Salahuddin, Senior Analyst, Mr. Zubyr Soomro, former Banker, Mr. Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Executive Director PILDAT and Ms. Aasiya Riaz, Joint Director PILDAT.
news release issued by Pildat.

HARD WORK IS KEY TO SUCCESS; SAYS NA DEPUTY SPEAKER

            Islamabad; April 25, 2012: Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker has said that youth is future of the country and Pakistani youth has immense potential to meet the challenges being confronted to the country if they are provided appropriate opportunities. He said while addressing Convocation COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad Campus at Jinnah Convention Center, Islamabad today.

            The Deputy Speaker said that the nation has a lot of expectation from its young generation and urged upon the youth to spend their all energies on their education and to prepare themselves to come up to the expectation of the nation. He said that the education is a life long process and not completed with obtaining the graduation degree only. He said that our religion gave importance to education as the very first word revealed to our Holy Prophet Peace be upon him was “Iqra”.

            The Deputy Speaker said that hard work is key to success and there was no short cut in the life. He said that degree you have got today has become possible owing to your hard work.  “Honestly and integrity were also imperative for success and without these qualities you could not achieve glory and fame” he said.

            The Deputy Speaker appreciated the efforts of COMSATS Institute of Information Technology Faculty Management and congratulated the students on completion of their education. Later on he awarded the degrees and medals to successful students.

UNITY AMONG UMMAH IS THE MULTI-FACETED SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS AND CHALLENGES FACED BY MUSLIMS- NAYYER BOKHARI

 Islamabad: 25^th April, 2012        Chairman Senate, Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari has said that unity among the Ummah is a durable solution to the problems faced by Muslim Countries at regional as well as global level. The intelligensia of the Muslim states would have to cooperate with each other for the true projection of Islamic Teachings of love, peace and tranquility. He was expressing these views while talking to a five member delegation led by H.E. Mr. Masoud Mohamed Al-Ameri, the President of the Supreme Judiciary Council and the Chief Justice of the Court of Cassation State of Qatar at Parliament House here today.

 The Chairman Senate appreciated the commendable gesture of goodwill shown by the Chief Justice of Qatar by paying a visit to Pakistan and especially Upper House (Senate). Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari observed that the exchange of delegations from Parliament, legal fraternity and judiciary would further strengthen the brotherly relationship between Pakistan and Qatar. The Chairman Senate informed the visiting delegation about the judicial paraphernalia working in Pakistan.  He also mentioned that our laws are based on the true injunctions of Islam.

The Chairman Senate informed the visiting delegation about the role of Upper House (Senate) in the legislative business. He mentioned that in Upper House, all the federating units have equal representation while in the Lower House the representation is on the basis of population and women and minorities are also given the representation at both the Houses.  He also observed that in the present democratic setup, the role of the Upper House (Senate) in the legislative business has increased manifold.

H.E. Mr. Masoud Mohamed Al-Ameri thanked the Chairman Senate for his hospitality to invite them to visit Senate and said that we witnessed freedom of expression and opinion at every level particularly Judiciary, Parliament and Media in Pakistan. He said that similarities exist between judiciary of the both the countries as our background and culture have Islamic roots. He stressed upon the need for frequent exchange of delegation of Judiciary for learning from each other’s experience and enhancing cooperation. He said that our visit to Pakistan is first step towards this end.  

While responding Chairman Senate, Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari said that frequent exchange of delegations is a fruitful initiative and it must continue for further strengthening our bilateral relations leading to enhanced cooperation in all areas of socio-economic development, cultural exchanges and trade as well.

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Seven months’ gape, Chan elected a PAC Chairman unanimously.

AKRAM ABID
Islamabad, April 25: PAC met here after some seven months’ gape to elect new chairman as former Chairman tendered resignation from his office due to mounting differences with the government and other concerned offices.

Chief Whip of PPP Syed Khurshid Shah, while beginning the proceedings of the committee, lauded the services and role of former Chairman PAC in enhancing the performance of committee.

He said that office of the PAC Chairman was given to opposition for the first time in parliamentary history of the country in lieu with ‘Charter of Democracy’ signed by two former Premiers of Pakistan i.e late Benazir Bhutto and Mian Nawaz Sharif.

He observed that after resignation of Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, slot of PAC chairman was lying vacant. “We wrote letter to Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan to retain his office, but he refused” he remarked adding, “We also asked him to nominate any other member of his party as Chairman PAC, but no response”.

So, he said that party leadership conveyed me to nominate Nadeem Afzal Gondal as new Chairman PAC. Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada proposed Gondal’s name while other members seconded him. Thus he was elected new chairman PAC unopposed.

Secretary National Assembly Karamat Hussain Niazi administered the proceedings of the PAC.

While giving his maiden address to committee, Gondal paid rich tribute to the services rendered by previous chairman PAC Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and reiterated his commitment to take forward the precedents and trends set by PAC.

 He said that PAC had been taking decisions unanimously and he would run the proceedings of the committee in same manner and decisions would be taken above party lines.

“Perhaps, my party had nominated me as PAC Chairman just because that I am opposition within my party” he commented while thanking party Co.Chairman, party leadership and committee members for reposing confidence in him.

Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Shahnaz Sheikh, Haider Abbas Rizvi, Qamar Zaman Kaira, Asiya Nasir, Noor ul Haq Qadri and others congratulated Nadeem Afzal Gondal for his election as Chairman PAC. They also paid rich tribute to the way Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan conducted the proceedings of the PAC.

Besides above mentioned members, Yasmeen Rehman, Noor Alma Khan, Abid Sher Ali, Saeed Ahmad Zafar, Rukhsana Bangash, Hamid Yar Hiraj, officials from National Assembly Secretariat and Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) were also present in the meeting.

PAKISTAN-INDONESIA SHOULD ENHANCE THEIR MULTI-FACETED TIES FOR MUTUAL BENEFIT: Chairman Senate

Senate Secretariat

 Islamabad: 25^th April, 2012

Chairman Senate Syed Nayyar Hussain Bokhari has said that Pakistan accords high priority to its old, deep and unique relations with Indonesia and is keen to further strengthen these ties as we share commonalities in religion, history and culture. He was expressing these views in a meeting with Indonesian Ambassador, Mr. Ishak Latuconsina at Parliament House today.

The Chairman emphasized the need to enhance people to people contacts particularly exchange of Parliamentary delegations, business community and people belonging to diverse spheres of life in order to share their experiences and learning from each other for progress and prosperity. The Chairman said that exchanges of Parliamentary fraternity from both sides will definitely help to understand functioning and working of the respective Parliaments and political system.  

Bokhari stressed the need for increasing bilateral trade volume between the two fraternal countries. He said that presence of political goodwill and already signed preferential trade agreement can lead to utilization of the existing potential to its full extent. However, the two sides should expedite efforts for Free Trade Agreement for maximizing trade. The Chairman added that Pakistan aims to provide investment opportunities to Indonesia in various sectors such as energy, construction, textile, telecom, finance, agriculture and the Halal food industry. He told the Ambassador that Indonesian people can enjoy citrus fruits and mangoes from Pakistan. Likewise Indonesian products can gain market in Pakistan. 

Talking about terrorism, the Chairman said that both Pakistan and Indonesia have been victims of terrorist activities from within and outside their territories. War on terror can not be won by any country alone and Pakistan has rendered immense sacrifices for the sake of world peace otherwise terrorism might have spread to other countries. The world particularly our friends should support Pakistan in this regard.

The Chairman Bokhari said that we acknowledge committed support of Indonesia and are confident that Indonesia will spearhead the efforts to help Pakistan attain full dialogue partnership with ASEAN.

The Chairman also previously appreciated Indonesia’s support during 1965 war and recent dispatch of a medical team to combat dengue fever in Pakistan.

Earlier, Indonesian Ambassador congratulated Chairman Bokhari for his elevation to this coveted position and expressed hope that under his guidance Senate will be working more effectively and efficiently. He also extended his deep sorrow and grief and conveyed sympathies and offered condolence on behalf of Indonesian people and government on the sad incidence of Bhoja Air Plane crash tragedy and Siachin Avalanche victims.

Mr. Ishak termed Pakistan-Indonesia relations as very special and thanked Pakistan’s support to Indonesian gorilla fighters during their war of Independence (1947-50) against Dutch and later for Pakistan’s all-out assistance in 2004 tsunami. He said that our relationship is very unique because we supported each other in good and bad times.

Indonesian Ambassador reiterated “Now is the time that we should work hard to make the maximum of our potential and should try to gain maximum benefit by increasing closeness and utilization of human resource potential for benefit of the two brotherly countries”.

He told the Chairman that next week Indonesian Parliamentary delegation will be visiting Pakistan and will hold important meetings with their counterparts and members of Pakistan-Indonesia Parliamentary Friendship Group to explore new avenues of cooperation. Talking about enhancing people to people contacts further he said that since 2009 onwards there has been continuous exchange of cultural troupe between both the countries and Indonesian trade delegation is likely to participate in 2^nd Trade Expo at Lahore.   

Indonesian Ambassador also held meeting with Deputy Chairman Senate Sabir
Baloch and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest and significance. Talking about ties between the two countries, Deputy Chairman said “The special relations between Pakistan-Indonesia are time tested and deep rooted and very natural with the momentum of their own”. He also stressed the need to enhance cooperation in various fields and people to people contacts. Sabir Baloch said that both the countries should enhance cooperation to curb terrorism, increase trade and investment, exchange expertise and explore tourism enhancement opportunities and cultural exchanges.     

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PAK OPPOSITION LEADER CONGRATULATED ON MISSILE TEST

 This missile technology on solid fuel was aggressively initiated by the PML-N government in its last tenure ,
Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar
ISLAMABAD
Leader of the Opposition in Senate AND Ex federal minister finance, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar congratulated the nation and scientists on successful launch of Shaeen Hataf-4. This missile technology on solid fuel was aggressively initiated by the PML-N government in its last tenure and has been successfully pursued later on. It gives a lot of satisfaction that this advance missile technology will prove as a better deterrent for the defence of our motherland.

PM thanks Chinese Premier on his message of condolence on air crash

Islamabad: April 24, 2012
 Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has thanked Mr. Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council of the Peoples’ Republic of China for his kind message of condolences on the tragic air crash in Islamabad.

In his letter of thank to the Chinese counterpart, the Prime Minister said that his sentiments on the tragic incident were a source of comfort for the families in distress.

 PRIME MINISTER’S HOUSE
(MEDIA OFFICE)
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PRESS RELEASE

Installation of CCTV Camera in the lobbies of the Parliament Lodges ,NA HOUSE & LIBRARY COMMITTEE, DIRECTED THE Capital Development Authority

Islamabad; April 24, 2012: National Assembly House and Library Committee met under the Chairpersonship of Deputy Speaker, National Assembly Faisal Karim Kundi in the Parliament House today
While apprising the present status of implementation of recommendations of Special Committee National Assembly Employees Cooperative Housing Society (NAECHS) and layout plan of NAECHS, the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad informed the Committee that CDA has approved the lay out plan of NAECHS. He said 407 Kanals land was in the possession of NAECHS, according to the layout plan more than 600 members of the society can be allotted the plots in the first phase and the remaining members will be accommodated in subsequent phase. The committee termed it great achievement and appreciated the work done by ICT Administration and CDA
            The Attorney of the National Assembly Secretariat on NAECHS apprised the committee that next hearing of the 6 cases filed by 3 employees of National Assembly Secretariat and 3 employees of ICT against the implementation of the report of the Standing Committee on House & Library is likely to be held on 1st or 2nd week of May. He further informed that all six cases have been consolidated and would be heard by the same honourable Judge of Islamabad High Court. He said that the delay in getting the stay orders vacated mainly owe to the late submission of the comments of the respondents in of the case i.e. ICT and FIA. The committee directed the Attorney to actively pursue the case and get the stay orders vacated so that the unanimous recommendations of the House could be implemented. The committee was of the view that no one would be allowed to misappropriate the hard earned money of the employees of the National Assembly Secretariat.
            The committee also discussed the theft cases in the Parliament House and to avoid such cases in the future directed CDA to prepare an estimate for installation of CCTV Camera in the lobbies of the Parliament Lodges. The committee also decided to visit the Parliament Lodges to examine the maintenance work carried out by the CDA in Parliament Lodges.
            The members who attended the meeting were Sheikh Waqas Akram, Minister of State, MNAs Noor Alam Khan and Anjum Aqeel Khan.

 NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT
(Media Wing)