Defending champions Karachi Kings beats Quetta Gladiators in first fixture of PSL 2021

The sixth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will kick off on Saturday in Karachi with an opening encounter between defending champion Karachi Kings and 2019 winner Quetta Gladiators

The contest between the winners of 2019 and 2020 edition of the PSL is scheduled to start at 8:00pm after the opening ceremony and fireworks.

And, with batting powerhouse in both the sides, the match is likely to provide some good display of hard-hitting.

Quetta has the services of some top T20 players like Chris Gayle, Tom Banton, Cameron Delport to have its batting look powerful. They also have young Azam Khan who has the ability to turn around the match with his clean hitting.

Sarfaraz-led side also has the face of Pakistan’s bowling line in Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Usman Shinwari. All-rounder Mohammad Nawaz can also be handy with bat and ball.

Zahid Mehmood, who recently made his Pakistan debut, can be a surprise package.

For, Karachi Kings, flamboyant Babar Azam will undoubtedly be the main torchbearer but they also have some exciting T20 prospects in the squad like Sharjeel Khan, Dan Christian, Mohammad Nabi and of course, their captain Imad Wasim.

Not to forget, Colin Ingram – who holds the record of the highest individual inning in the PSL history, is also in Kings’ ranks making their batting as powerful as Quetta’s.

Karachi’s bowling is led by Mohammad Aamir whose T20 record is extraordinary. He has the ability to change the match single-handedly. Aamir is likely to be supported by Aamer Yamin and Waqas Masqood in pace attack.

Quetta Gladiators have most of their players aged under 23, making them the youngest side in the PSL and they’ll be up against relatively experienced side Kings – who won the PSL title at the same venue in November.

The top three of either side will have an impact on the outcome of the game and comparing the top order of both the sides, it can be said that Quetta has a bit of an edge against Karachi.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2ZzlEQX

Israel and USA working on new Arrow-4 ballistic missile

Israel said on Thursday it is developing a new ballistic missile shield, the Arrow-4, with the United States, another layer in a defensive system built with an eye towards Iran

Israel’s Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 interceptors are already operational as part of a multi-layered system to destroy incoming missiles in the atmosphere and in space.

“The development of Arrow-4 together with our American partners will result in a technological and operational leap forward, preparing us for the future battlefield and evolving threats in the Middle East and beyond,” Defence Minister Benny Gantz said in a statement.

Israeli leaders have described Iran’s ballistic missile programme as a threat to Israel. Iran says its missile development is defensive and aimed at deterring attack.

The Defence Ministry said Israel Aerospace Industries would serve as the prime contractor for the Arrow-4. Boeing and Israel’s Elbit Systems are also part of the Arrow

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3br6PFw

Kuwait lifts up the travel ban

The government of Kuwait will lift the ban on the 35 ‘high risk’ countries and allow passengers to travel directly to the country as of February 21

Kuwait Civil Aviation’ Director General (DGCA) announced passengers traveling to Kuwait from one of the 35 countries that were declared ‘high risk’ will need to observe a mandatory 14-day quarantine at the hotel at their own expense.

The Deputy Director of DGCA Saleh Al Fadaghi pointed out that 45 hotels are available to choose from, the press statement released to that effect.

The statement added that Kuwaitis seeking medical treatment, Kuwaitis students, those under the age of 18, and members of the diplomatic core are exempt from the decision.

According to the local paper, for the 14 days of quarantine, the price list will be as follow: 725 Kuwaiti dinars for a double room in a five-star hotel and 595 for a single room, 530 Kuwaiti dinars for a double room in a four-star hotel, and 400 for a single room and 400 Kuwaiti dinars for a double room in a three-star hotel and 270 for a single room.

All the passengers will have to show proof that they have reserved a hotel and have registered on the Kuwait Mosafer application, prior to their arrival.

The local media cited sources in reporting that the ‘high-risk countries’ list might expand to include 33 new countries taking the total number to 60.

TRAVEL BAN

The travel ban was first announced on August 1, hours after the Kuwait airport resumed commercial travel, and originally included 31 countries. Then in August, Afghanistan was added to the list.

Then in September, France and Argentina were added to the travel ban as well, while Singapore was removed from the list.

The United Kingdom is the latest country to be added to the list after the British government announced that a new strain of COVID-19 virus has been detected and is found to spread faster than the existing virus.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3sd4XqN

Two IED expert terrorists killed in north waziristan search operation

Two terrorists were killed and a havldar of the Pakistan Army was martyred Friday night during a search operation carried out by the security forces in MalikKhel area of North Waziristan, said a statement issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR)

"Security Forces conducted IBO on terrorist hideout in MalikKhel, North Waziristan late last night. During intense exchange of fire two terrorists, including a terrorist commander Rehmat alias Khalid, [were] killed," said the military's media wing.

The ISPR said that Havaldar Shehzad Raza was martyred during the exchange of fire with the terrorists.

Read more: Security forces gun down three terrorists in North Waziristan, says ISPR

The military's media wing said that the terrorist commander, Rehmat alias Khalid, was an IED expert, involved in different terrorist activities against security forces, extortion, kidnapping for ransom and target killing since 2009 in the area.

"During search operation security forces recovered a huge cache of weapons," added the ISPR.

This is the second search operation carried out by the security forces in North Waziristan.

Earlier this week, the ISPR said that three terrorists were killed in North Waziristan's Mir Ali in an intelligence-based operation.

According to the military’s media wing, security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation at the hideout of the suspected terrorists in Mir Ali.

Three militants were killed during an intense exchange of fire, the ISPR said. They were affiliated with the Aleem Khan group.

The terrorists were involved in attacks over security forces, target killings and kidnappings for ransom.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3dvVBCh

Opening fixture of PSL 2021 Quetta Gladiators 72-4 against Karachi Kings

Quetta Gladiators were 72-4 at the end of ten overs against the Karachi Kings in the opening match of the sixth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at Karachi's National Stadium on Saturday

The Kings started off strong by dismissing both Sarfaraz Ahmed and Tom Banton. Banton managed only five runs before being sent back to the pavilion in the first over. Sarfaraz fell in the second over, claiming only seven runs.

Saim Ayub, who made his T20 debut, fell in the eighth over, adding an equal number of runs to the scoreboard. Chris Gayle, dubbed the "T20 superstar", met his downfall in the ninth over. Gayle scored 39 runs.

Earlier, the Kings had won the toss and opted to field first. Speaking after the toss, Karachi captain Imad Wasim said: "It's a very good wicket and it's going to hold so we hope to chase down what we're set.

"Chris Gayle is a T20 superstar but we have certain plans for him and we're confident we can execute our plans," he added.

Meanwhile, Quetta captain Sarfaraz Ahmed said: "Tom Banton is really exciting us, as is Qais Ahmed. I feel very confident in our young pace attack, led by Naseem Shah and Mohammad Hasnain. Let's see how it goes."

 

Teams:

Karachi Kings: Babar Azam, Sharjeel Khan, Colin Ingram, Joe Clarke (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Dan Christian, Imad Wasim (capt) Aamer Yamin, Waqas Maqsood, Mohammad Amir, Arshad Iqbal

Quetta Gladiators: Chris Gayle, Tom Banton, Azam Khan, Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt &wk(), Saim Ayub, Ben Cutting, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Hasnain, Qais Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Usman Shinwari

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3ujebUk

PSL 2021 starts with glittering opening ceremony

Pakistan's biggest T20 tournament, the Pakistan Super League kicked off in Karachi on Saturday with a star studded opening ceremony ahead of the opening match between defending champions Karachi Kings and one-time winner Quetta Gladiators

This is the second time that an opening ceremony is being held in Karachi. The National Stadium had also played host to the opening ceremony for the 2020 edition.

The opening ceremonies for the first four editions were held in Dubai.

The ceremony, which was being attended by a 20% crowd to fill the stands, was opened with the national anthem of Pakistan.

PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani welcomed the overseas players, support staff and guests at the start of the ceremony .

"This year's PSL is being played in only Karachi and Lahore and due to coronavirus 7,500 people will be able to [attend matches in] Karachi and 5,500 in Lahore," said Mani. He added that he is "hopeful" that if the situation remains stable then more people will be able allowed to attend the matches.

He thanked the fans for making PSL Pakistan's "biggest brand". He also extended gratitude to the government for allowing PCB to hold the PSL.

Mani wished all the six teams the best of luck in the competition and hoped that the best team wins the trophy.

Following the welcome by Mani, the HBL president spoke to the audience.

With the formalities done and dusted, superstar Atif Aslam took the stage with his song Adat, that shot him to fame in the country.

With the audience left stunned by Atif's performance, in came singer Imran Khan with his hit song "Amplifier".

The performance was arguably more "amplified" as actress Humaima Mallick danced to the track, besides swaying to "Bewafa" and other songs.

With the audience pumped up by Atif, Imran Khan and Humaima Mallick. the stage was all set for Nassebo Lal, Aima Baig, and Young Stunners to come and enthrall the audience with the anthem for this year's edition "Groove Mera".

To top off all the celebrations, the PCB put on a fireworks display to mark the start of cricket festivities.

Now, the defending champions Karachi Kings will face off against Quetta Gladiators in a night match in the first match of the season.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3qDhvHr

Open balloting concept is present in charter of democracy: Shibli Faraz

Federal Minister for Information Shibli Faraz on Saturday said that the concept of open balloting was clearly stated in the charter of democracy

Talking to journalist, Shibli Faraz said that open balloting will help restore the sanctity of the house and will stop horse-trading.

In a bid to stop corrupt practices amid Senate elections, the government has decided to conduct the elections through open balloting, he added. The minister said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has started a war against corruption in the country.

On February 7, in order to maintain transparency and end horse-trading, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the government wanted to hold Senate elections through the open ballot.

Talking to journalists in Multan that day, FM Qureshi had said that the government wanted to end corrupt practices in Senate elections. He had maintained that the government filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a constitutional interpretation, adding that they would welcome the verdict of the court on the matter.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3dxGgBo

PM Imran Khan will visit Peshawar to review Senate elections strategy

Prime Minister Imran Khan will visit Peshawar on Monday to review preparations from Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) in Senate elections

According to sources privy to the details of his visit, the prime minister would meet members of the PTI parliamentary group in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly.

“PM Imran Khan will personally address reservations over the nominations of candidates for the Senate elections from KP, ” they said adding that the premier would also review strategy for the elections and coordination with other political parties.

PM Imran Khan, the sources said would also meet with the Senate candidates from KP province. The prime minister would also be presented with an inquiry report regarding causes of loss in Nowshera by-polls.

It is pertinent to mention here that in a similar manner, Prime Minister Imran Khan on February 17 took Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers from Sindh Assembly into confidence over the upcoming Senate elections

The PTI lawmakers who gathered at the Governor House in Karachi were addressed by Imran Khan via video link, who was flanked by Governor Imran Ismail from Islamabad.

While apprising the lawmakers regarding the candidature of Faisal Vawda and Saifullah Abro, the prime minister said that being a human being, he could commit a mistake, however, he would not take a wrong decision intentionally.

“Rest assured, I will take decisions in the better interest of the nation,” the premier assured.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2OYB8vN

Gujjarpura rape case, Police submits the charge sheet in Court

The police has submitted charge sheet of the motorway gang-rape case in an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Saturday

The police has filed a challan of the case, comprised of over 200 pages in the court.

The police, in its charge sheet, has held accused Abid Malhi and Shafqat responsible for robbery and rape committed with a woman at the motorway in the outskirts of Lahore.

The FIR of the incident was registered at Gujjarpura police station.

Police has also included a list of 40 witnesses in challan.

An identification parade of the accused was held in the jail. The DNA test of the accused was also held and matched.

The statement of the victim was also recorded. The two accused also confessed their crime.

The trial of the accused will be conducted in jail, according to a notification issued the home department.

The court had earlier ordered the police to complete the case challan till February 6.

The main accused in the case namely Abid Malhi and Shafqat Bagga have been in jail on judicial remand.

On September 09, a woman along with her children was waiting for help on the Lahore-Sialkot motorway after her car ran out of fuel, when she was forcefully brought out of the car at gunpoint and gang-raped in Gujjarpura area on the outskirts of the provincial capital.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3bsVGEp

According to Maryam Nawaz, ECP issued a charge sheet against Gov

PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz on Saturday claimed that the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) statement regarding the NA-75 by-election was a "charge sheet" against the government

"There was firing, polling was slowed, people were killed and bags of votes were stolen. The ECP was looking for you, where was the Punjab government," she said while addressing the media in Lahore.

"Where was the chief minister, chief secretary, the police, the IG and the administration," she questioned.

Earlier today, the ECP said that it suspected results of 20 polling stations had been falsified in the by-election for the NA-75 (Daska) constituency.

The commission said results of the NA-75 constituency were received with "unnecessary delay", adding that it tried to contact the presiding officers several times but with no success. However, hours after the statement was issued, federal ministers claimed that the results showed that the PTI had won the election.

Addressing today's press conference, Maryam claimed that the PTI rigged the Daska and Wazirabad by-polls because it knew that the PML-N would win by an "overwhelming majority".

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3sbq8JJ

Pakistan's biggest cricket event "PSL" is about to kick off with glittering opening ceremony

Pakistan's biggest T20 tournament is just minutes away from kicking off, with the defending champions Karachi Kings taking on one-time winner Quetta Gladiators

Before the cricket festivities begin, fans will get to see an extravagant opening ceremony for the tournament starting at 6:45pm.

"The first four ceremonies were held at the Dubai International Stadium while the 2020 opening ceremony was staged at the National Stadium Karachi and the same venue will play host to the 2021 ceremony," the PCB said.

The stars that will perform include Atif Aslam, who will make his PSL opening ceremony debut, while rapper Imran Khan, and model Humaima Malik will be present alongside the PSL 2021 anthem stars — Naseebo Lal, Aima Baig, and Young Stunners.

The PCB has said that some parts of the opening ceremony have been filmed offshore in a specially designed studio space in Turkey.

After the opening ceremony, Defending champions Karachi Kings would face off Quetta Gladiators in a night match in the first match of the season.

The ceremony will be aired on PTV Sports

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2ZzVZYo

NA-75 by-elections : ECP withholds results over fears of alteration

Following returning officer fears about alteration in the results of 20 polling stations, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has ordered to withhold the results of the NA-75 by-election, reported on Saturday.

Election Commission, in a statement, said that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) contacted IGP Punjab, Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner to know the whereabouts of the missing polling staff.

The authorities assured to trace the missing staff.

After much effort, presiding officers resurface along with polling bags about 6 am.

The statement further states that it is not possible to release unofficial results without full inquiry into the incident; however, the district returning officer and returning officer are sending a report to the commission and the provincial election commissioner and joint provincial election commissioner has been directed to reach office of returning officers.

On the complaint of PML-N candidate on NA-75 Sialkot, the RO had forwarded reference to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz candidate on NA-75 Nosheen Iftikhar had moved a plea to the CEC to withhold the results.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2NK9P7E

Pakistan records 1,340 new cases, 36 coronavirus deaths in a day

Pakistan has recorded 36 more coronavirus-related deaths in past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,563, reported on Saturday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 36 more lives and 1,340 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 24,081.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 1,362 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,604 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 569,846.

A total of 42,332 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 533,202 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,644,847 samples have been tested thus far.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2NNpYJS

Saudi Arabia introduces new set of laws to localize its labour

The Saudi Arab’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced the implementation of a decision to localize its workforce across professions in restaurants, cafes, hypermarkets, and malls soon

Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi said that the number of young Saudi men and women who entered the labor market in January exceeded 28,000.

“We are targeting all sectors, activities, and professions, and we will invest in all opportunities so as to enable the sons and daughters of the country to take up jobs,” Al-Rajhi said.

He added that the kingdom will soon implement a decision to localize the legal and educational professions also.

Al-Rajhi made the remarks during his meeting with members of the National Committee for Contractors and the National Committee for Consulting Professions.

“A study has been completed to improve the status of occupational security and safety personnel working on company contracts in ministries and quasi-governmental entities, in addition to contractors with the private sector and set a minimum wage for them,” he said.

The minister said that the Saudization initiatives and programs in the year 2019-2020 have achieved excellent results, as more than 420,000 citizens have joined the labor market.

“The number of Saudis who joined the labor market in January exceeded 28,000 young men and women, through the branches of HADAF and TAQAT employment centers and employment support and empowerment programs.”

We have worked on formulating it with private sector establishments through many workshops, in order to improve the Saudi labor market environment, raise its efficiency and make it in line with global labor markets, in terms of attractiveness, high competitiveness and attracting skilled people,” he added.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3saDYfk

Bitcoin touchs the new record and nears $1 trillion market cap

Bitcoin hit yet another record high on Friday, and moved within sight of a market capitalisation of $1 trillion, blithely shrugging off analyst warnings that it is an “economic side show” and a poor hedge against a fall in stock prices.

The world’s most popular cryptocurrency jumped 2.6% to an all-time high of $52,932, setting it on course for a weekly jump of over 8%. It has surged around 60% so far this month.

Bitcoin’s gains have been fuelled by signs it is winning acceptance among mainstream investors and companies, from Tesla and Mastercard to BNY Mellon.

Its latest gains took its market capitalisation – all the bitcoin in circulation – to about $982 billion, according to cryptocurrency data website CoinMarketCap, with all digital coins combined worth around $1.6 trillion.

Still, many analysts and investors remain sceptical of the patchily-regulated and highly volatile digital asset, which is still little used for commerce.

Analysts at JP Morgan said bitcoin’s current prices were well above estimates of fair value. Mainstream adoption increases bitcoin’s correlation with cyclical assets, which rise and fall with economic changes, in turn reducing benefits of diversifying into crypto, the investment bank said in a memo.

“Crypto assets continue to rank as the poorest hedge for major drawdowns in equities, with questionable diversification benefits at prices so far above production costs, while correlations with cyclical assets are rising as crypto ownership is mainstreamed,” JP Morgan said.

Bitcoin is an “economic side show,” it added, calling innovation in financial technology and the growth of digital platforms into credit and payments “the real financial transformational story of the COVID-19 era”.

Other investors this week said bitcoin’s volatility presents a hurdle for its ambitions to become a widespread means of payment.

On Thursday, Tesla boss Elon Musk – whose tweets have fuelled bitcoin’s rally – said owning the digital coin was only a little better than holding cash. He also defended Tesla’s recent purchase of $1.5 billion of bitcoin, which ignited mainstream interest in the digital currency.

Bitcoin proponents argue the cryptocurrency is “digital gold” that can hedge against the risk of inflation sparked by massive central bank and government stimulus packages designed to counter COVID-19.

Yet bitcoin would need to rise to $146,000 in the long-term for its market capitalisation to equal total private-sector investment in gold via exchange-traded funds or bars and coins, according to JP Morgan.

Rival cryptocurrency ether traded down 0.5%, still near a record of $1,951 reached earlier on Friday. It has been lifted by growing institutional interest, and after its futures were launched on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3k5rNOn

Iran will reverse nuclear actions once US lifts sanctions, reiterates Javad Zarif

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday once again reiterated that Tehran will “immediately reverse” actions liable on it under the nuclear deal when US Sanctions are lifted.

The Joe Biden administration said on Thursday it was ready to revive a 2015 agreement between Iran and world powers that former president Donald Trump abandoned in 2018 before reimposing sanctions on Iran.

When sanctions are lifted, “we will then immediately reverse all remedial measures. Simple,” Zarif said on Twitter.

On Thursday, Zarif had tweeted that Iran’s “remedial measures” were in response to violations of the accord by the US, Britain, France and Germany. Other signatories to the 2015 deal were China and Russia.

US acknowledged Pompeo's claims re Res. 2231 had no legal validity.

We agree.

In compliance w/ 2231:

US unconditionally & effectively lift all sanctions imposed, re-imposed or re-labeled by Trump.

We will then immediately reverse all remedial measures.

Simple: #CommitActMeet

— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) February 19, 2021

Breaches of the deal by Iran began in 2019, about a year after Trump withdrew from it.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that the Biden administration would return to the accord if Tehran came into full compliance with it.

Tehran has set a February 23 deadline for Washington to begin reversing sanctions, otherwise, it says, it will take its biggest step yet to breach the deal — banning short-notice inspections by the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Britain, France, Germany, and the United States called on Iran to refrain from that step and repeated their concerns over recent actions by Tehran to produce uranium enriched up to 20% and uranium metal.

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3ue9Xxc

Gwadar: World's most beautiful stadium hosts its first cricket match

It was a sight for sore eyes as the cricket stadium in the city, dubbed by many as the world's most beautiful one, hosted its first ever cricket match on Friday.

The picturesque stadium, surrounded by the majestic mountains and hills, is hosting a match between the Showbiz Sharks Vs the Gwadar Dolphins.

According to a report, the Showbiz Sharks is being led by PCB CEO Waseem Khan and will include Fakhr-e-Alam, Faysal Qureishi, Ali Zafar, Saleem Sheikh, Aijaz Aslam, Shezad Roy, Sami Khan, Kamran Jeelani, Salman Saeed, Ali Safina and Noman Habib.

The Dolphins, on the other hand, are being led by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis Zulfi Bukhari and features local players and Ali Zaidi and the GOC Gwadar.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Christian Turner, officiated the toss between Zulfi Bukhari and Waseem Khan.

"What a stadium," said Turner. "It's the most beautiful stadium in the world, in my opinion," he added.

Bukhari's Sharks won the toss and the skipper elected to bowl first.

"Our batting and bowling line-ups are both strong so we are looking forward ot the game," said Waseem Khan.

Cricket buffs couldn't hold back from tweeting pictures of the stadium. Here are some of the tweets:

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis decided to jump on the "Pawri Hori Hai" bandwagon.

Ye hum hain
Ye humara toss hai
Aur yahan cricket ho rahi hai ?

SAPM @sayedzbukhari wins the toss @CTurnerFCDO @TheRealPCB @falamb3 @AliZafarsays #CricketAtGwadar pic.twitter.com/AoKymgHc4E

— Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis & HRD ?? (@mophrd) February 19, 2021

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3sdlLh8

Russian presidential envoy to Afghanistan calls on COAS Qamar Bajwa: ISPR

Russian Presidential Envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov on Friday called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters (GHQ).

According to the ISPR, the two of them discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security situation particularly developments in the Afghan Peace Process during the meeting.

COAS Qamar Javed Bajwa said that peace in both countries is in the greater interest of the region.

The visiting dignitary appreciated the positive role being played by Pakistan for Afghan Peace Process and expressed that relations between Pakistan and Russia will continue to prosper manifolds.

“Both sides reiterated the commitment to enhance the bilateral relationship,” said the army’s media wing.

Besides meeting the COAS, during the visit, Ambassador Kabulov will call on Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and meet with the Special Representative for Afghanistan and other dignitaries for an exchange of views on the latest developments in the Afghan peace process.

The visit of Ambassador Kabulov is part of Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach in support of the Afghan peace process.

Besides the exchange of views on the Afghan peace process, the visit will contribute to further strengthening Pakistan-Russia bilateral cooperation.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3bpCLdm

NA-75 Daska by-election: Two dead, 8 injured as PTI, PML-N workers clash

Two persons died and eight others were injured as clashes broke out between PTI and PML-N workers in the city's NA-75 constituency on Friday.

The firing incident occurred at the Gondka polling station which resulted in three persons getting injured, with two succumbing to their injuries on the way to the hospital.

A heavy contingent of police officials and Rangers personnel are present at the Gondka police station to restore order there. PTI and PML-N workers had assembled outside the polling station where the firing incident took place, shouting slogans against one another.

Out of 360 polling stations in the constituency, the voting process has was suspended at 15 sensitive polling stations.

Two groups of people exchanging blows, armed with sticks in Daska can be seen in a video clips that have gone viral on social media. Police have yet to identify or arrest the suspects who were committed the killings.

According to sources, PML-N's thug Javed Butt murdered PTI worker Majid by firing at him and severely injured Sajid," tweeted Dr Shahbaz Gill. "The PML-N is full of goons such as Gullu Butt and Javed Butt. These are criminals, politics is just a cover-up. Every drop of blood will be accounted for," he added.

The city's traffic situation worsened because of the clash. The atmosphere outside the polling station remains tense as no law enforcement agency remained present outside the Gondka polling station where the firing incident took place and where currently charged-up workers of both political parties are face-to-face.

Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan held a news conference during which she blamed the PML-N "goons" for entering polling stations forcibly and harassing PTI workers.

Awan lashed out at the ECP, saying that it seemed as if the commission "had its eyes closed" today. "Those officers [of the ECP] who operated outside of the law today, we have our eyes on them," she warned.

The PTI leader vowed that the provincial government will "neither leave the PTI nor its facilitators" for the Daska chaos.

Soon after news broke of the clash between workers of both political parties, the PML-N and the PTI leaderships held each other responsible for the violence.

Special Assistant to the Punjab Chief Minister on Information, Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan held PML-N Punjab president Rana Sanaullah responsible for the clash, saying that PML-N was resorting to its "traditional thuggery" under Sanaullah's supervision.

She alleged that PTI workers were being harassed at polling station by "private gunmen", calling on police to take action against the culprits.

On the other hand, PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz lashed out at authorities and tweeted a video of the party's supporters breaking doors of a polling station down after they were allegedly made to wait outside for hours.

"PMLN voters in Daska lose patience, protest & break down doors of a polling station after being made to wait for hours as polling time draws to an end. Sharam kero," she tweeted.

PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb lashed out at the PTI, blaming the party for resorting to violence in the face of imminent defeat.

The PML-N leader said that she would request the ECP to extend the voting time in the area and added that the party will demand the commission to hold an inquiry into the firing episode.

Later, holding a press conference, Aurangzeb said that both PTI and the PML-N workers had been martyred in the incident. "Two people are dead and four persons are severely injured," she said, blaming the whole provincial government and the administration for being in cohorts with the culprits who had opened firing.

"Where is the chief minister of Punjab? He says an FIR will be registered. You should be booked in the FIR," she lashed out. "This provincial government can't hold one by-election."

She continued her tirade against the chief minister, saying that he had failed in holding a by-election in Daska. "You have made the administration your personal servants," said Aurangzeb.

The PML-N spokesperson showed a video of PTI workers allegedly firing in the constituency in front of police officers. "This firing was done in front of police officials," she shouted, holding up her cellphone for the reporters to see.

PTI leader Usman Dar questioned Sanaullah's presence in the constituency, saying that it was a clear violation of the ECP's code of conduct.

"We will register an FIR against Rana Sanaullah. He brought armed men with him and resorted to firing," he accused. "If these people thing NA-75 is their stronghold, what are PML-N MPAs and Maryam Safdar doing holding jalsas in the area?" he questioned.

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2Nprqlz

PSL a unique launch-Pad for young Cricketers

The HBL Pakistan Super League is known for providing a launching pad to the emerging players every year. The budding players get a major breakthrough as they rub shoulders with top players, share the dressing room and watch them before their eyes.

The HBL Pakistan Super League has been an ideal platform to a number of players in the five editions.  Hasan Ali started his career as an emerging player for Peshawar Zalmi in HBL PSL 2016 and rose rapidly to become a world known player, starring in Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy win a year later.

That same stage propelled Shadab Khan, Haider Ali, Umar Khan, Arshad Iqbal and Rohail Nazir to name a few.

The HBL Pakistan Super League 6 will also see all six teams giving two emerging players each the launch pad to fire on. Here is a brief introduction of all the emerging players.

 Islamabad United

Mohammad Wasim Junior is a medium-fast bowler with immense potential. He was part of the Pakistan U19 team that featured in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa last year. He picked up five wickets in Pakistan’s win over Scotland.

“I am super excited to be part of Islamabad United,” said Wasim. “I am picked on my performances at the domestic level, so I am ready to prove my talent.”

Ahmed Safi Abdullah is a left-arm spinner of prominent ability. Abdullah was associated with Islamabad United in last year’s HBL PSL as well. He took four wickets in three matches at a good economy of 8.12.

Since then, he has lived up to his potential in the domestic season. He featured for joint-champions Central Punjab and scored 245 runs in 10 matches and, more importantly, fetched 34 wickets.

Karachi Kings

Watch out for Qasim Akram. At just 18, Qasim has already made waves at the domestic level, impressing expert and commentator Bazid Khan no end. He is a solid middle-order batsman who can give impetus to the innings in the final overs. Qasim is a quality off-spinner and that aspect of his game increases his utility as a player.

Qasim was part of the Pakistan U19 squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup last year. Although he managed just 93 runs in four innings, but his average of 46.50 was impressive. He also took three wickets with an economy of 3.57.

Qasim graduated to first-class cricket last year and knocked 389 runs with three half centuries and grabbed 13 wickets – prominently contributing in Central Punjab finishing as joint-winner of the Quaid Trophy.

“I am from the fertile land of Lahore and feel very lucky that I have been picked up by champions Karachi Kings,” remarked Qasim. “I know this is my chance to make it big and I am all for that.”

Mohammad Abbas Afridi was picked by legendary Wasim Akram. That can easily sum up his talent.

“I was impressed with his action when I saw his video,” said Wasim of the right-arm fast bowler from FATA.

Abbas rose to prominence when he was selected for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup last year. Abbas finished with nine wickets in five matches – the most by a Pakistani in the event.

Lahore Qalandars

Lahore Qalandars stand out in unearthing talented players and then groomed them in their development program.

Maaz Khan, a spinner who has the knack to turn the ball and get wickets, is from Jamrud in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Lahore head coach Aqib Javed says Maaz has the attitude of a fast bowler, has a good googly, a flipper and can turn the new ball well too.

He has also represented Lahore Qalandars in the T-10 league with success.

Zaid Alam’s story is that of rags-to-riches. He is the son of a tea-staller owner and used to help his father at the stall. In his spare time Zaid would play cricket in the streets.

He started off with tape-ball cricket on the streets of Lahore and from there he was picked for Pakistan's squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in 2018 held in New Zealand. 

He failed to showcase his talent in his age group matches, finishing with just 93 runs in five matches. But Zaid has now matured and is ready to take his chance in the HBL PSL VI.

 Multan Sultans

Right-arm fast bowler Mohammad Umar regards HBL Pakistan Super League as a fantastic opportunity for him. He is a fast bowler who played for Sindh in the domestic season, doing well with the white ball. 

That prompted Multan Sultans to give him a chance in the emerging category and he is keen to grab the opportunity with both hands.

“HBL PSL is a fantastic event,” admits Umar, adding: “I used to watch it from the sidelines and now I am lucky that I am part of Multan Sultans, so I will leave no stone unturned and make my mark.”

Shahnawaz Dhani also believes he has a big stage to make an impact.

“I know that this is my chance to make it big,” said Dhani, who hails from Larkana, Sindh and is a right-arm fast bowler.

“I am happy that I have got a chance to play under Azhar Mahmood (bowling coach) and Andy Flower (head coach) in Multan Sultans. This will give me a very good chance to hone my talent.”

Dhani caught the eyes with his 135-140kph speed during the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. He took 26 wickets in seven matches. He also has an effective bouncer, so watch out for Dhani in the emerging category.

Peshawar Zalmi

Abrar Ahmed is not new to the HBL Pakistan Super League. He was part of Karachi Kings in 2017 when he was spotted as a “mystery spinner” by former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif.

But Abrar failed to get a wicket in two matches before injury ruled out any further participation.

Peshawar Zalmi has picked up Abrar after a stellar show in the three-day Quaid-e-Azam Trophy last year. Abrar was outstanding, taking a whopping 57 wickets in six matches for the Sindh Second XI with eight five-wicket haul and two 10-wicket hauls. However, when he was promoted to first-class cricket, he failed to repeat his wicket taking ability.

But no one can rule him out.  Abrar can be damaging as his fingers have the knack to turn the ball square.

Mohammad Imran Randhawa is a talented right-arm fast bowler who has speed and aggression to rattle the best batsmen.

Quetta Gladiators

Arish Ali Khan has been a top performer on the junior circuit for the past couple of years. He is a left-arm spinner with uncanny ability to disguise the batsmen and can stop the flow of runs in white ball cricket. 

He was part of Pakistan’s squad in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup held in South Africa last year but unfortunately did not get to play a single match.

Arish emerged from a PCB-conducted tournament in 2016, ending as the leading wicket-taker with 45 strikes at 12.24. He was also the second-highest wicket-taker in the PCB National Under19 three-day tournament with 30 wickets, striking at 16.27 in 2019.

Saim Ayub is a left-handed batsman of high quality.  Saim has led Pakistan at the U16 level and helped Pakistan win against Australia. He can hit big and long. He was unlucky to miss the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup last year due to an injury.

Saim said he is all geared up for the big chance.

“I am all prepared, mentally and physically, and would do my best to take a flight from the HBL PSL and achieve what I have set out for in cricket,” vowed Saim.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2NHfiMu

ATC Sents Haleem Adil shiekh on judicial remand

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has sent Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and the Leader of the Opposition in the Sindh Assembly, Haleem Adil Sheikh, to jail on judicial remand till February 25, reported on Friday.

The ATC heard a case related to aerial firing and creating a disturbance in by-elections in Karachi’s PS-88 constituency on February 16.

Haleem Adil Sheikh and other accused have been produced before the court by jail officials today.

The prosecutor told the court that the accused had attempted to intervene into the polling process during the PS-88 by-elections. The prosecutor also sought remand of Haleem Adil till March 3.

The counsels representing the accused apprised the ATC judge regarding the recovery of a poisonous snake from the room of Sheikh.

The lawyer argued that the case was the result of political revenge but not a terrorism case. He said that firing was resorted to on the vehicle of Haleem Adil Sheikh.

During the hearing, the opposition leader said that the snake was deliberately left in his room and it was a conspiracy to murder him.

To this, the judge remarked that he should not deliver such political statements outside the courtroom. “We are sending you to jail and you will be safe there.”

Later, the court sent Sheikh to jail on judicial remand till February 25. The ATC ordered authorities to produce the accused again on February 25.

Moreover, the court issued notice to the prosecutor regarding the bail plea of Sheikh and sought arguments on February 22.

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/37sESMw

Senate elections: Pervaiz Rasheed challenges rejection of nomination papers

Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader Pervaiz Rasheed has challenged the rejection of his nomination for the upcoming Senate polls by the returning officer (RO), reported on Friday.

Pervaiz Rasheed moved to the Lahore High Court (LHC) election tribunal against the rejection of his nomination papers for Senate elections.

In his appeal, the PML-N leader made ECP and Returning Officer (RO) as parties.

Rasheed stated that he is ready to pay Rs9.5 million to remove the objection of the election commission and said the returning officer had illegally rejected his nomination papers.

It further stated that he tried to remove the objection of the election body, however, it failed to address his reservations. Payment cheques for the money were also prepared following the demand of the Punjab House, but no information was given regarding the bank.

The politician complained against the government for not receiving money. He pleaded with the LHC election tribunal to nullify the decision pertains to the rejection of his nomination papers.

Yesterday, it emerged that the election body had rejected nominations of two candidates including PML-N’s Pervaiz Rasheed and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Neelum Irshad.

The ECP’s returning officer had rejected Rasheed’s papers on the premise that he has not paid millions of rupees he owes the Punjab House. A total of six objections were raised on his nomination for a Senate seat.

 

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3qywSBa

By-Pools : Voting begins in four NA, PA constituencies

The polling process has begun during the by-elections in four constituencies including two vacant seats of National Assembly (NA) and two seats of the provincial assemblies (PAs) of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), reported on Friday.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is holding by-elections on four vacant seats today which include NA-45 Kurram, NA-75 Sialkot, PP-51 Gujranwala and PK-63 Nowshera.

In a bid to avert any untoward incident, Rangers and FC officers have been deployed outside polling stations.

The seat of NA-75 Tehsil Daska, District Sialkot was vacated after the death of PML-N’s MNA Syed Iftikhar-ud-Din in August 2020.

Provincial Assembly seat PP-51 Wazirabad was vacated due to the death of PML-N MPA Chaudhry Shaukat Manzoor Cheema in June 2020 due to coronavirus.

PML-N fielded women candidates for both the seats in the by-elections. Nosheen Iftikhar, daughter of late Syed Iftikharuddin, has been given party ticket in the NA-75 constituency.

A tough contest is being expected between Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz candidate, Syeda Nosheen and PTI’s Amjad Malhi. TLP’s Muhammad Khalil Sindhu and the other seven independent candidates are also running for the NA seat.

According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the number of registered voters in the constituency is 4,94300. As many as 360 polling stations have been set up out of which 155 are declared sensitive and 25 are highly sensitive.

The deputy commissioner had earlier announced a holiday in connection with the by-election of NA-75 Sialkot-IV Daska.

Similarly, a ticket has been given to Talat Manzoor Cheema, wife of Chaudhry Shaukat Manzoor Cheema, on PP-51. PTI’s Chaudhry Yousuf Mehr will contest against her.

In NA-45, PTI candidate Fakhr Zaman Khan is contesting against Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam’s Malik Jamil Khan.

In Nowshera, a close fight is expected between PML-N’s Ikhtiar Wali and PTI’s Omar Kakakhel on PK-63. The district administration has declared 39 polling stations as the most sensitive.

According to the details, the Election Commission of Pakistan has established 102 polling stations in the constituency to facilitate 141,934 voters including 79,063 men and 62,871 women.

52 polling stations have been set up for men, 47 for women and three are combined polling stations. Out of the total, 39 polling stations were declared most sensitive and 35 as sensitive.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3un7BMC

Pakistan reports 40 more corona deaths,1,245 fresh infections in last 24 hrs

Pakistan has recorded 40 more coronavirus-related deaths in past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,527, reported on Friday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 40 more lives and 1,245 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 24,139.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 1,243 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,626 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 568,506.

A total of 34,754 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 531,840 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,602,515 samples have been tested thus far.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3awMdMQ

Massive rallies held in Myanmar against military coup

Myanmar’s anti-coup protesters returned to the streets in force on Wednesday, staging the biggest demonstrations since troops fanned out around the country to quell opposition to the new military junta.

Much of the country has been in open revolt since the military deposed Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s government at the start of the month and charged her under an obscure import law.

Tens of thousands rallied in Yangon, some blockading roads with vehicles to stop security forces from moving around the nation’s biggest city.

Police and soldiers were spotted near a key protest junction but appeared to be hanging back, looking on as demonstrators streamed past.

“We have to fight until the end,” Nilar, a 21-year-old student who asked not to use her real name, said.

“We need to show our unity and strength to end military rule. People need to come out on the streets.”

Wednesday’s crowds came in defiance of violent efforts by the regime to bring resistance to heel — including use of tear gas and rubber bullets — following nationwide street protests and a disobedience campaign encouraging civil servants to strike.

Demonstrations over the past two days had been noticeably smaller since troops were deployed around Yangon at the weekend.

But social media platforms had been flooded with calls for a show of force by protesters in the hours before the junta imposed a third consecutive overnight internet blackout.

By noon, there were anti-coup demonstrations across Myanmar, from the remote highland region of Chin state to a small town in the Irrawaddy delta.

Right outside the administrative capital Naypyidaw, tens of thousands of people from different sectors marched through the logging town of Pyinmana carrying signs saying “Help Myanmar”.

UN special rapporteur Tom Andrews warned that soldiers going into Yangon, as had been reported, could lead to the situation there spiralling out of control.

“We could be on the precipice of the military committing even greater crimes against the people of Myanmar,” he said.

Meanwhile, the military justified its power seizure by alleging widespread voter fraud in November elections won by Suu Kyi’s party in a landslide.

After her detention in a dawn raid on February 1, Suu Kyi was charged with possessing unregistered walkie-talkies found in her home.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3qypRQK

US State Secy Blinken to hold virtual 'Quad' meeting with Australia, India, Japan

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually on Thursday with his counterparts from Japan, Australia and India in the “Quad” framework, a grouping seen as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

The meeting, announced by State Department spokesman Ned Price at a regular briefing on Wednesday, will be the first of the informal group under the Biden administration that took office on January 20, although it has discussed its future role in bilateral calls with members since then.

“This discussion with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals in the free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our time, including coordinating our efforts and Covid-19 response, as well as climate change,” Price said.

Blinken will also discuss shared global challenges with counterparts from France, Germany and Britain in a separate call on Thursday, Price said.

President Joe Biden has said working closely with allies will be key to his strategy toward China, in which he has said the US will aim to “out-compete” Beijing.

Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in a telephone call last week to strengthen Indo-Pacific security through the Quad.

Japan hosted an in-person meeting of Quad foreign ministers in October and the four countries the following month held their largest joint naval exercises in over a decade.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3bgbSbY

Sarfaraz opens up on Twitter row with Hafeez

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has clarified that he holds no grudges with senior player Mohammad Hafeez after the two indulged in a Twitter dispute last week.

“There is no grudges between the two of us. Hafeez is a senior player and will always have my respect,” Sarfaraz said in a pre-tournament presser of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season six.

Remember, Hafeez and Sarfaraz indulged in an argument on Twitter after which the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stepped into the matter.

Hafeez praised Rizwan’s performance in the first T20I and also raised a question on how long will it take for him to be recognized as the number one wicket-keeper batsman in Pakistan.

In reply, Sarfaraz reminded Hafeez that whoever will play for the country will remain number one and expected that positivity from a player of Hafeez’s caliber.

Meanwhile, Sarfaraz is confident that Quetta Gladiators have all the ingredients to play the final of PSL 6.

“We have formed a brilliant squad with the induction of new players. We will try to built a team from match one that is capable of playing the final,” he added.

Note, Quetta Gladiators will be up against defending champions Karachi Kings in the opening fixture of the PSL 6 on February 20 at National Stadium, Karachi.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3dqQvaG

'Won't allow anyone to compromise Senate polls': Bilawal

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari claimed on Thursday that members of the PTI were "happily coming to PPP" and switching their affiliation, adding that no one would be allowed to compromise the upcoming Senate elections.

Bilawal was addressing a gathering in Karachi to celebrate Yousuf Murtaza Baloch's victory in the PS-88 Malir by-election. According to unofficial results, he won the election with a huge margin. He secured 24,251 votes against Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan’s Syed Kashif Ali Shah who got 6,090 votes. PTI’s Jan Sher Junejo bagged 4,870 votes and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan’s Sajid Ahmed received 2,635, respectively.

The PPP chief said that members of the PTI could see the government was on its way out and would no longer vote on its orders. "They can see that whether [by-]elections happen in Karachi or Sangar, the PPP is dealing a blow to the PTI," he said, adding that because of this, the PTI's members were switching their allegiances.

"They are happily coming to the PPP, saying they will give us their votes in return for tickets with the hope to become [the PPP's] candidates in the future."

He said the process was a natural part of democracy, adding that democracies are run according to the law and the Constitution instead of some "Pharoah's orders". Bilawal said another reason for this was the presidential reference in the Supreme Court, which according to him was against the PTI's own MNAs and MPAs.

In December, President Dr Arif Alvi had sought the opinion of the Supreme Court on holding the Senate elections through open ballot and show of hands. The Supreme Court had subsequently constituted a five-member bench to hear the case.

In his speech on Thursday, Bilawal termed the move an "admission of no-confidence" in the PTI's own members by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

"If the govt has a majority, if it trusts its MNAs and MPAs, then why does it want to come through chor darwazay (back doors)," questioned Bilawal and challenged the government to come "face-to-face" for a political contest.

"We won't give any permission to compromise the Senate elections or to steal votes of members of [national and provincial] assemblies."

'Govt worried'

He said the residents of PS-88 had exposed the "true worth of these puppets" and the big lead the PPP gained had even surprised and "worried the selectors and the selected". "We are fighting and defeating this government on every front," he said, claiming that the government had been facing similar defeats in multiple by-elections.

The PPP supremo added that not only the PPP, but also the 10-party alliance, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), was playing its cards in a way that had the government "highly worried" about the by-elections and especially the Senate elections. "PDM will also attack this government in Senate elections not only from Sindh, Punjab but also Islamabad."

Bilawal alleged that the government was now pressuring different institutions and wanted to "fire a gun" from the shoulders of the Election Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Court. He added that not only the secrecy of votes of MPAs was being taken away but also their right to vote according to their choice, which he called "an attack on democracy".

"We hope that all the people with us and the PDM will not allow this to happen. We won't give permission for rigging to be done in Senate elections," he said, further warning: "No one should get any ideas to get chor [Prime Minister Imran Khan] Niazi a majority in Senate through chor darwazay [secret doorways]."

'Conspiracy against democracy'

Bilawal claimed that no suo motu notice was taken against irregularities and instances of political harassment in the 2018 general elections or when political parties were decrying the lack of "level playing field" and lack of freedom for the media or when, he alleged, "my party was broken up and my Punjab candidates were forcefully sent to this puppet party."

Instead, he claimed, when the demands for elections according to the Constitution and the law was made, then photoshopped and fake videos were released to the media. "What kind of joke is this?" he questioned and said "it is beyond my understanding" how the government had taken to blame the opposition for a video in which members of PTI were represent — referring to the recent video leak that showed lawmakers allegedly receiving cash for switching loyalties before the Senate elections in March 2018.

He termed such stunts "a conspiracy against democracy and Senate elections" and reminded that democratic forces were looking at institutions and what roles they played — democratic or undemocratic.

"The victory will be ours, we are ready for every Senate elections, we are ready for secret and open ballot, now you should prepare because there will be a march in March."

Bilawal said the rights of the people for better livelihood, jobs, National Finance Commission Award and development funds — for resolving local issues of potable water and cleanliness — would be snatched from Islamabad in the PDM's long march.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/37mWQ2H

Pakistan to begin next coronavirus vaccination phase from March: Dr Faisal

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan said Thursday that Pakistan would begin its next vaccination phase from March, with the arrival of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, the prime minister's aide said that people above 65 years of age would be given the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine that Pakistan is set to receive through the COVAX facility.

The special assistant said that till March, Pakistan would receive 2.8 million doses of the vaccine. "This is a positive development as we will be able to kick-start our second phase."

He said that the government had announced on February 15 that people above 65 years of age should start registering themselves for the vaccine.

Procedure

The procedure is the same, send your CNIC number — without dashes — at 1166. "You will get further information from the message you receive."

He said that the World Health Organisation has approved it and that nearly 35 countries are using it, including the United Kingdom. "It is a safe vaccine."

He urged people above 65 years to get themselves registered for the vaccine as they are "an important part of the society".

The special assistant said that the vaccine that is being used to inoculate the frontline healthcare workers is from Sinopharm, adding that he "recommends that it should not be used for people above 60 years."

"It does not mean that this vaccine is not safe or is not effective," he said, adding that the people who partook in the vaccine's trials were not substantial, therefore, Pakistani medical experts advised that it should be used when enough data for people above 60 is available.

Over 52,000 frontline healthcare workers vaccinated

Furthermore, he said that more than 52,000 frontline healthcare workers have received the coronavirus vaccine across Pakistan.

He said that the government considers the frontline healthcare workers as "ideals" — and it proves the vaccine's efficacy and their trust in it.

Speaking about the procedural changes made in registering for the vaccine, he said that if a frontline healthcare worker is less than 60-year-old, then they will now only have to send their CNIC number — without dashes — at 1166 and visit their nearest vaccination centre. The list is available on the National Command and Control Centre's website.

From February 22, the general healthcare workers would be able to register themselves through a website, and they will be able to receive the vaccine at their respective vaccination centres.

Pakistan is also one of the first countries that plans to allow the private sector to conduct vaccinations and the drug regulator issued guidelines on Thursday for private companies to set up centres to administer COVID-19 vaccines.

The private sector has an integral role in terms of ensuring safe and secure COVID-19 vaccinations in addition to the pubic sector, the drug regulator said in a notice announcing the guidelines.

"The standard operating procedures (SOPs) are being developed for AVCs (Adult Vaccination Counters) in order to ensure (a) smooth vaccination process," it said.

Last week, the country allowed the commercial import and sale of vaccines without price caps, in contrast to most countries, which are importing and administering vaccines through government channels.

The guidelines say private firms will be responsible for identifying and enlisting prioritised people for vaccination, monitoring, surveillance, management, communications and cold-chain management.

The firms will ensure training of nurses and skilled staff in vaccine administration, infection prevention and control, and use of recording and reporting tools on prescribed formats.

The centres will share daily reports with government health management teams.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2Nlyfoa

Pakistani climber Ali Sadpara declared dead by his son

The family of Pakistani mountaineer Ali Sadpara Thursday declared him and two other missing foreign climbers dead.

The announcement was made by Ali Sadpara's son, Sajid Sadpara, in Skardu. "I will keep my father’s mission alive and fulfil his dream," he said.

He also thanked Prime Minister Imran Khan, Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and the courageous pilots of the Askari Aviation for conducting a thorough search and rescue operation amid the harsh weather for his father.

Sadpara, Iceland's John Snorri and Chile's Juan Pablo Mohr had departed for their journey on February 3 after Sadpara's birthday, asking fans and admirers to "keep us in your prayers".

They had started their attempt for the final summit in the early hours of February 5 , hoping to accomplish the herculean feat by afternoon.

According to updates posted on Snorri's facebook account on Friday, at 12:29pm, the GPS stopped working and had not updated in six hours.

Ali Sadpara's management revealed a few days ago that the government and other stakeholders were employing their best efforts to find Sadpara and the other climbers who went missing, despite him being missing for almost 10 days.

Sadpara's management, which operates his official Twitter account, on Monday announced that a meeting of the apex committee regarding the missing climbers' search and rescue (SAR) operation will be held on Feb 17, 2021, in Gilgit.

"Please avoid any premature statements and keep away from fake reports," the management had said.

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/37rxiS9

CJP disappointed over PPP, PML-N reneging on open ballot agreement

Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed on Thursday expressed disappointment over the PPP and the PML-N going against an agreement signed between them — the Charter of Democracy — which calls for an end to secret balloting in Senate elections.

A five-member larger bench headed by Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijaz-ul-Ahsan and Justice Yahya Afridi was hearing the presidential reference seeking an opinion on open balloting for the upcoming Senate elections.

During the hearing, the Advocate General of Punjab Ahmad Awais agreed with Attorney-General for Pakistan Khalid Jawed Khan's point of view that parliamentarians were bound by their party's code of discipline and in case of any violation, action can be taken against them.

Responding to a query of the chief justice, the advocate general said a lawmaker can be disqualified for either buying or selling votes but not for voting against the party's policy.

After the Punjab advocate general had concluded his arguments, the Advocate General of Sindh Sultan Talib ud Din presented his arguments, stating that everyone has heard about horse-trading but no one has ever produced any evidence to back it up.

"The court should steer clear of questions of a political nature," he said, adding that the Election Commission of Pakistan should instead be allowed to fulfil its responsibilities.

"The Supreme Court can only answer questions that are raised," said the Attorney General of Sindh, adding that it has an "advisory" role.

At this, the chief justice responded by saying that the Constitution is a political document and when the court interprets it, then it is carrying out a political task.

The Advocate General for Sindh said that there is no proof that introducing open balloting would eliminate horse-trading.

"We can not say whether open balloting will eliminate horse-trading but it is disappointing that the PPP and the PML-N have gone back on their earlier agreement," responded the chief justice.

"Both parties agreed to bring an end to the secret balloting method in the Charter of Democracy but now they are not implementing it," Justice Gulzar Ahmed said.

At this, the Attorney General of Sindh said that without amending Article 226, the wishes of the federal government cannot be fulfilled.

The advocate generals of Islamabad, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab all supported the arguments presented by the Attorney-General for Pakistan.

Justice Gulzar Ahmed said that Article 63-A does not apply to the Senate elections whereas Article 59 does not mention secret balloting.

The hearing was postponed till Friday.

A day earlier, the Supreme Court had been conducting the hearing of the presidential ordinance where it had grilled the chief election commissioner for not taking due action over horse-trading.

"The election commissioner should tell us how he plans to stop corrupt practices in the Senate elections," the chief justice had asked.

Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan had observed that the Election Act does not mention corrupt practices specifically. "The word 'guard' has been used for political interference before and after elections, as well as corrupt practices," the judge had noted.

Justice Ahsan had said that guarding against corrupt practices in this context would mean that precautionary measures ought to be taken before the elections so that they are held in a transparent manner.

"Money and political interference are used in elections," noted Justice Ahsan. "The election commission should tell us how it plans on stopping such practices."

The chief election commissioner had responded by saying that the ECP does all it can under its jurisdiction to ensure that corrupt practices are thwarted. "Action is taken before and after elections, on grievances and complaints," said the election commissioner.

"Chief election commissioner sahab, you aren't understanding the depth of the problem," Justice Gulzar had responded. "The ECP is not an ordinary government department, it has a mandate," urged the chief justice.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3bm0awx

PM Urges electronic media to campaign for roshan Digital account

Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan has said that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has paid back a record $20 billion debt in two and half years.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with Roshan Digital Account crossing five hundred million dollars mark in remittances in Islamabad, PM Imran Khan said the country is overburdened due to record debts taken by the previous governments.

The prime minister expressed his pleasure over the record increase in the country’s exports at a time when the economies around the world were badly affected by the breakout of the pandemic.

He said our exports have been more than our competitors including India and Bangladesh and added our textile sector is witnessing a boom and new textile mills are being opened.

Terming overseas Pakistanis, the country’s biggest asset, he thanked them for bestowing their trust in the Roshan Digital accounts.

The premier said as many as 88,000 thousand overseas Pakistanis hailing from 97 countries of the world opened Roshan Digitial Pakistan accounts.

“Many Pakistani expats are still unaware about the program,” said the PM Khan and urged upon the need for the campaign on the electronic media to aware them of Roshan Digital Accounts.

The common people are overburdened due to the devaluation of the currency. We are taking the economy in the right direction. The past governments only given relief to the elites, he observed.

Roshan Digital Accounts

According to the SBP statement, the simplification of the taxation regime will give a further boost to the Roshan Digital Account scheme, which has already attracted considerable inflows from NRPs in the five months since it was launched.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3ubcrw8

NAB requests LHC to dismiss Hamza’s bail petition

The National Accountability Bueau (NAB) submitted on Thursday its reply to a bail petition of opposition leader in the Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz in the Lahore High Court (LHC).

It its reply, the national graft buster requested the high court to dismiss the PML-N leader’s petition seeking bail in the assets beyond means and money laundering case.
The bureau stated that the high court had already dismissed the bail plea of the accused. He filed the fresh bail petition on the same grounds that were given in his previous plea, it added.

Hamza Shahbaz amassed more assets than his sources of income justified besides being involved in money laundering, the NAB said, adding his was not an ordinary case.

On Feb 3, a two-judge bench LHC headed by Justice Sarfraz Dogar had issued a notice to the bureau to file its response to the bail petition by next hearing.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3qAq2Lw

ECP Clears Yousaf Raza Gillani for upcoming Senate elections

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday accepted former prime minister and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Yousuf Raza Gilani’s nomination papers for the upcoming Senate election.

The ECP’s returning officer rejected a petition filed by Fareed Rehman, a PTI Senate candidate from Islamabad, who challenged the former premier’s nomination for a Senate seat.
Yousuf Raza Gilani has been fielded as a joint candidate of the opposition alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) from Islamabad.

The PTI candidate stated in his petition that the PPP stalwart concealed the facts in his nomination papers. He failed to mention his conviction in a contempt of court case back in 2012, the petitioner said.

Arguing that Gilani didn’t fulfill the requirements as mentioned in Article-62 of the Constitution, Rehman pleaded that the PPP candidate’s nomination papers be rejected.

Meanwhile, the commission has completed the scrutiny of nomination papers filed by ten candidates vying for two Senate seats from Islamabad. Of them, the nomination papers of nine have been accepted while those of one rejected.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/3awQfEQ

Pakistan records 52 Covid deaths, 1272 new cases in a day: NCOC

Pakistan has recorded 52 more coronavirus-related deaths in past 24 hours, surging the overall death toll to 12,488, reported on Thursday.

According to the latest statistics of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the COVID-19 has claimed 52 more lives and 1,272 fresh infections were reported.

The total count of active cases is 24,176.

In the past 24 hours, as many as 2,052 patients have recovered from the virus in a day and 1,666 patients are still in critical condition.

According to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), with fresh inclusion of the infections in the country the national tally of cases now currently stands at 567,261.

A total of 36,543 tests were conducted across the country during this period. Overall 530,597 people have recovered from the deadly disease so far while 8,567,761 samples have been tested thus far.

Yesterday, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) had advised all health workers to get them registered in their respective areas for COVID-19 vaccination.

Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar had stated that protection of the frontline health workers is the foremost priority of the government.

During the vaccination drive, 32,807 health workers have been vaccinated in Sindh, the NCOC said in a statement.

“In Punjab 15,494 health workers have been administered vaccine, while in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 1039 workers have got vaccine shots,” the NCOC said.

Moreover, in Gilgit-Baltistan 1013, Azad Kashmir 651, Islamabad 859 and in Balochistan 252 health workers were vaccinated during the coronavirus immunization campaign, according to the NCOC.

The federal government this Monday opened registration for citizens above the age of 65 years for COVID-19 vaccine shots.

Federal Minister for Planning and Development and National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) Asad Umar in his tweet said: “Pleased to announce that registration for getting covid vaccine is now open for all citizens 65 and above. Just write down ur CNIC number and send a message on 1166. Inshallah vaccinations for this age group will start in March.”

A countrywide Covid vaccination drive started on February 3 after 0.5 million doses of the Sinopharm vaccine gifted by China.

Sindh had been provided 84,000 doses of the vaccine, Punjab 70,000, KP 65,000, and Balochistan 10,300 doses for vaccination of the frontline health workers.

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2ZrjXF3

Veteran Politician Senator Mushahidullah Khan passes away

Senior politician and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Mushahidullah Khan, 68, passed away in Islamabad early Thursday morning.

PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz confirmed the news, however, the cause of Senator Mushahidullah Khan’s death was not yet known.
Maryam Nawaz said in her Twitter message, “Senator Mushahidullah Khan, MNS’s loyal and exceptional companion left us.”

“I am shattered to hear the sad news. Will never be able to forget his fatherly affection & love. Huge huge loss. May Allah SWT shower upon him every blessing that HE has reserved for the afterlife. Ameen.”

“I am shattered to hear the sad news. Will never be able to forget his fatherly affection and love. Huge, huge loss,” she said.
Mushahidullah Khan’s son Dr Afnan said that his father’s funeral prayers will be offered after Zuhr in 11-H Islamabad.

PML-N had earlier awarded a ticket to the senior politician to contest the forthcoming Senate elections on a general seat.

According to PML-N’s Mohammad Zubair, Senator Mushahidullah Khan was unwell for quite a long time.

 

from latest-news - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/2ZrsB6y