Suicide attacks – a new dimension by Nadia Khan

Gone are the days when Pakistani Army Jawans, in 1965 war, were carrying the loaded bombs in front of Indian tanks assault to stop their advancements and save Lahore. Similarly Shaheed Rashid Minhas, attempt to brought down his plane killing himself along with his instructor, was to save few secrets of Pakistan air force and a Palestinian girl, mother of two, Idrees Wafa's suicide attack on Israeli army was an act of bravery and a notification to world against the atrocities committed by Jews. Among non-Muslims, Chinese paratroopers' suicide actions at Perl Harbour had documented a new dimension in world war history. In today's world, suicide attacks are not unknown war tactics for Pakistani residents especially in tribal belt – North, South Waziristan and Malakand division, including Peshawar. Pakistanis are witnessing these attacks, sometimes failed also, since last 3 years frequently in many parts of the country from Khyber to Karachi. This phenomenon has risen dramatically after the assault of Lal Mosque in Islamabad. Taliban or Tahreek Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is mostly coming under fire for such attacks which took lives of several innocents. There are numerous peace deals signed between Taliban and Pakistani govts including Musharraf regime and present Zardari democratic govt but so far peace is not achieved. There are doubts that the killing of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is also carried out by same radical forces. Since then, political leaders are raising warning messages against Taliban, the radical forces behind all such heinous attacks but the scare of attack is reaching larger cities and the height of this fear is seen in Karachi too, where one local political party is quite vocal against Taliban. Most recent suicide attack in a mosque in Jamrood, Khyber Agency, which took the lives of 70 innocents during Friday prayer, has raised the eyebrows of investigating authorities and a larger question, "who is killing innocent Muslims and why?" is under critical discussion. To get the insight, we need to look at the role of radical forces in tribal areas of Pakistan. Taliban, mostly, is not a unified force, unlike Afghanistan, and has surged as a group of warlords, representing various tribes busy to gain their own vested interests. Moreover, there are rivalries among these tribes. Due to this & their culture, each tribe head has gathered number of militant soldiers (are they Islamic mercenaries or paid soldiers – this is yet to be established?) ready for armed struggle. Few headlines are worth noting telling the hidden motives behind each attack: - ISI, Pakistani spy agency is behind all suicide attacks in Southern Waziristan by Mullah Nazir Ahmed, a warlord of South Waziristan - We will take revenge from Bait Ulla Mehsud over attacks in mosques – by Zain Uddin Mehsud, a splinter group of Bait Ulla Mehsud TTP - A warlord, Tarkistan's group was busy in number of defiance activities including innocents killing, hence Taliban killed 24 of his group members along with his real brother Hindustan Such activities clearly indicate that – these radical forces are divided into various groups & each one is trying to retain the control of areas which they already had conquered, hence fighting against others for different motives. Taliban wants the radical version of Islam & its strict interpretation in areas where they enjoy majority such as Malakand division. This includes the ban on female education & work. Taliban is using suicide attack tactics against Pakistan armed forces due to the fact that later is dealing with them with iron hands in Swat picturesque valley. Other warlords, such as Tarkistan or likeminded Uzbek fighters have their own interests - to survive in border areas of Pakistan until the US forces are having major assault onto them in neighbouring Afghanistan. Hence, they are using suicide attacks as a tactic to counter other warring factions. Because in FATA, they have a common enemy – American drones, this has made the life of these warlords much relaxed & they en cash each causality in their favour. Beside internal warfare, suicide attacks technology has been exported to major cities for personal gains such as settling the enmities. A case of Bhakkar, Southern Punjab where a MNA of PML (N) was hurt by a suicide bomber was the case of settling dispute and revenge. Indian interest in Afghanistan became another element to exert pressure on Pakistan from the Western border in the form of spy agencies activities where they use suicide attackers against the political figures of Pakistan. Attacks on former interior minister Aftab Sherpao or Benzair Bhutto 18th October procession, in which she has survived, was denied by Bait ulla Mehsud group categorically, indicates some other hidden hands using suicide attacks technique. Few warlords have been paid high to carry out such tactics and speak against them hence shouldering the responsibility on Pakistani intelligence agencies too. Suicide attack on Benazir Bhutto, on 27th December was exposed by media as an act of killing through firing and suicide attack to destroy the onsite evidences. This was also denied by Taliban, though no investigations have been carried out so far, had left bigger room for doubts about hidden hands other than radical forces. Attack on Marriot, Islamabad had given a new twist in suicide attacks history when US marines came under limelight using hotel rooms for their own interest, probably controlling Drone attacks, and hence the role Indian spy agencies came under discussion for helping radical forces to destabilize Pak-US relations! By taking the same line of revenge, Pakistani intelligence agencies were blamed by India for orchestrating Mumbai Taj Hotel shoot out! During this episode, Indian media has given a new dimension to look into suicide attacks concept. Within this context, religion or Islam has been singled out from this internal warfare tactic. By being a war tactic, it has nothing to do with Islam and in today's Pakistan no one is carrying out suicide attacks for Islam or Muslim cause. Not only FATA, rest of the Pakistan is a battle field among various factions and suicide attacks are used as a tool to gain the control of land, revenge or settle personal disputes!

Altaf Hussain – MRO for warring factions of MQM by Nadia Khan

Altaf Hussain – MRO for warring factions of MQM By Nadia Khan   Now a days you might be noticing number of statements from Mutahidda Qoumi Movement's founder and patron in chief, Altaf Hussain, asking all the national politicians especially Nawaz Sharif, to refrain the politics of confrontation, adopt approach of reconciliation, and set aside all the political differences as Pakistan – now a days- is at the brink of turmoil and political chaos could trigger larger anarchy in the country.   While addressing a gathering organized in connection with MQM's silver jubilee celebrations, Altaf Hussain has remarked, "I will not abuse some one even if any body abuses me", he further added, "I am not against Nawaz Sharif". Altaf Hussain thanked the Almighty Allah that after timely decisions and actions of the government on March 15 the situation in Punjab has improved remarkably. He said that a civil war-like situation had been raging in two provinces of the country and prior to March 15 there had been chances that the situation in Punjab will deteriorate to a civil war. All the newspapers has published his silver jubilee remarks with golden ink and state-controlled PTV has telecasted his speech live.   Beside the differences, people from all walks of life had endorsed his positive comments against Governor Rule in Punjab and agreed to his long-awaited new approach.   Perhaps, the two warring factions of MQM (Haqiqi) deserve MQM leader's reconciliatory approach more than anyone in Karachi and Muhajir community. He should be more knowledgeable than anyone that Muhajir Qoumi Movement (MQM) Haqiqi is split in two groups – MQM Haqiqi (Afaq Group) and MQM Haqiqi (Amir Khan Group). Each faction claims that their party is the genuine MQM-Haqiqi after party elections on March 11, 2007. Amir Khan group bitterly criticised their "former chairman" Afaq Ahmed for adopting wrong policies, which, according to them resulted in the murder of over 387 party workers, the arrest of thousands and the sufferings of scores of women, children and elders. However, both factions agreed that Altaf Hussain's Mutahidda is their common enemy and they had unleashed a reign of terror against their workers and leaders since November 18, 2002, when State-sponsored terrorism was started against them. 'And on June 18, Mutahidda terrorists occupied the residence of one faction group chairman, Amir Khan, in Liaquatabad and robbed valuables. To date, the residences of the two leaders are occupied by terrorists. Yesterday only, Altaf Hussain has asked Sind provincial govt to refrain themselves from rebuilding the Bait ul Hamza – central head quarter of Haqiqi faction an equivalent place like 90 Aziza bad and the residence of Afaq Ahmed, former chairman of MQM (Haqiqi) and now the leader of his own faction.   News in Islamabad is in air that both factions of Haqiqi had contacted PTI Imran Khan and JI Qazi Hussain Ahmed to settle their disputes peacefully but no solution has been sought so far. During Musharraf era the Haqiqi leadership was arrested and its workers went underground while several of them killed when Mutahidda Qoumi Movement emerged as a strong ally of the former army General and it regained control of all Haqiqi-strongholds in Karachi. Soon after 18th February 2008 elections, PPP-led Sind govt encouraged the Haqiqi leadership to restart their political activities. Then both the Haqiqi factions led-by Afaq Ahmed and Amir Khan separately, re-started their political activities and held several press conferences, protest demonstrations and took out rallies in the city while they also started their normal activities in their previous strongholds including Landhi, Korangi, Shah Faisal Colony, Malir, Saudabad, Lines Areas and some other localities of the city.   However, it faced a setback when Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) parted ways from the ruling coalition, thus increasing the PPP's reliance on Mutahidda and now Altaf Hussain & Mutahidda is openly supporting PPP Co-chairman, Asif Ali Zardari, and both Haqiqi factions have been once again left in the lurch.   Within this context of Karachi, we would like to extend Altaf Hussain's Silver Jubilee speech as a document for peace and reconciliation, and would invite him, first, to play a father-figure role in Karachi to help re unite all the three warring factions of Muhajir community and MQM. As his party is one of the beneficiaries of NRO – National Reconciliation Ordinance, a document that paved the way for late Benazir Bhutto, Zardari and other political figures of Pakistan to get pardoned, Altaf Hussain could formulate a MRO – Muhajirs Reconciliation Order for his own ex-colleagues, friends, and partners like Amir Khan, Aafaq Ahmed and other stalwarts of late 80s Muhajir Qoumi Movement, to end up the long-standing rivalry.   This will help Muhajir community to reunite including few individuals who have been singled out in last few years - Aamir Liaquat Hussain, over issue, which indeed, Altaf Hussain also believes in sincerely – the respect of Holy prophet (Peace be upon him) and condemnation of British writer Salman Rushdie, the author of Satanic Verses!

Is Pakistan a failed state? (by Nadia Khan)

Is Pakistan a failed state? By Nadia Khan   Yesterday, Indian interior minister Chidambaram warned the world that Pakistan is quickly becoming a failed state as many parts of NWFP are now under the control of Taliban. Foreign minister Parnab Mukherjee, during the crisis of long march has warned United Nations that due to political chaos in Pakistan there might be a chance of civil war that will lead the country to failure.   Sometime back famous magazine Newsweek named Pakistan as the most dangerous place on earth. Recently an American magazine Foreign Policy has ranked number of countries as most dangerous place and a failed state around the globe. They named Somalia as the most dangerous country whereas Pakistan is ranked 9th among top ten, surprisingly, as ninth most failed state after Somalia, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Chad, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan and Ivory Coast – all fairly failed states. Central African Republic is ranked 10th and Ethiopia is ranked 16th , Liberia 34th and Malawi 29th famous of blood diamonds, child soldiers and a heaven to adopt kids without much ado – all these appeared better than Pakistan, interestingly!   They have graded the countries on indicators of instability that are as varied as economy, security, human rights, and factionalized elite among others. Their survey chart is designed with the maximum point of 10 for any of the above indicator – the more failed a state is, the higher the score would be on most of the indicators.   According to the Foreign Policy survey, out of the 12 indicators of instability, Pakistan's least worrisome performance has been in economy and public services. This is exactly contrary to what we are witnessing since last 3 years. Failing economy has given rise to inflation and hence price-hiking abruptly. Falling rupee value has brought down our exports and hence rupee-dollar ratios has exceeded 80 in last 2 years compared to 60 in last 4 years.   Group grievances, security apparatus and external intervention were among the higher scoring indicators in that survey.  Pakistan, by being a multi-ethnic country, may have high group grievances issues. Muhajir community and MQM is part of federal and provincial govts since last 10 years peacefully and probably, happy. With all due respect to Baluchistan & Baloch people, if they have any issues with the federal government about royalty of their natural resources and the fate of missing persons, it's not that big deal, even though there are number of liberation movements in action internally or externally. After all, they comprise only 4 percent of the population and are being adjusted in high offices, such as deputy chairman Senate, Chief Justice of Pakistan, and Prime Minister Portfolios as and when circumstances allowed the federal govt. Southern Punjab, Saraieki belt is also not on much confrontation with other federating units after having Yousuf Raza Gilani and Shah Mehmood Qureshi as prime minister and foreign minister respectively.   Pakistan, in that survey, is accused of being high on delegitimization of the state. This was perhaps correct in the past, but now it has been taken care. Govt has officially signed peace deals with dissident groups in FATA, Swat and Bajaur Agency and handed over districts and cities to them. Now native residents are the ones who are officially administering their areas and Pakistan as a state or government of Pakistan cannot be held responsible for the deligitimization of the state.   Similarly, security issues such as attack on Sri Lankan cricket team and similar incidents are not the indicators of our security apparatus at work. Perhaps the number of times traffic is blocked in the main cities of Pakistan to clear passage for high-ranking govt officials or dignitaries arriving at airports would be considered as security measurements indicators because in westernized civil societies all such actions are in place without any confusion. Sri Lankan team attack is now concluded as internal security failure due to number of reasons including the major reshuffle in bureaucracy after Sharif's disqualification.   External intervention, though exist virtually, but no clear sign of physical intervention like in other parts of the world – Iraq or Afghanistan. However, as a nation it is not termed as a legitimate activity among patriotic circles. If Drone attacks are termed as external intervention then for instance, it has been suggested that US Drones that are said to be flying from Afghanistan are actually taking off from our own airfields in Sind or Baluchistan. If that's the case, then the level of external intervention is not as high as it has been mentioned in that survey. Even then, there are number of political forces being opposing such attacks on Pakistan soils vehemently.   The highest scoring indicator for Pakistan is marked as factionalized elites in that chart. Contrary to that scoring, it is well known fact that Pakistani elite does not seem all that factionalized. The elite class has been quite focused, coherent and persistent in evading the taxes, availing benefits for themselves and for their relatives while piling indirect taxes on the poor people of Pakistan, such as high utility charges, extra price margin on petrol cost, and tax on salaried individuals.   I personally think that this survey and likewise statements, articles, publications or books are all biased and is part of an international conspiracy to besmirch the good name of Pakistan. By looking at the indicators one can easily identify that the main issues of Pakistan –today- are failing economy, capital flight, poor public service approach and missing social justice system rather than factionalized elites, group grievances, security apparatus failure for govt-officials and due to which Pakistan is being sidelined as failed state!

Pakistan, Political Parties, and the beleaguered Nation by Nadia Khan

Pakistan, Political Parties, and the beleaguered Nation By Nadia Khan   Present day Pakistan's history has started from 17th December 1971 and late Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, now termed as Shaheed, has taken over the reins of remaining Pakistan. Shortly he was attributed as civil dictator by most of his political opponents and 1977 rigged-elections have paved the way for General Zia to over rule the country for a decade. Afghanistan Jihad, as most of his admirers termed it, became the key success of military rule which had taken the lives of number of Pakistanis during that period. Since 1988, the nation is witnessing the rise of ethnic radicalism, predominantly captioned as terrorist acts by most of critics, is now the centre of Pakistan dilemma. The successive governments of late Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif weren't up to the mark of peoples expectations and were dismissed - without completion of their tenure - by their establishment masters calling them inappropriate or corrupt. General Musharraf's U-turn over General Zia policies had led the country in bigger chaos after 9/11 incident which has exposed the West or America for all their cunning policies and cruel procedures of suppressing Muslim nations.   While the nation is celebrating 23rd March with full patriotism and national fervour, lawyers along with political parties are celebrating the joyful moments of "Long March;" all roads are going towards Supreme Court of Pakistan on 22nd when Chief Justice would be back in action after 2 years of absence. Keeping the high hopes of people, the restoration of Ifthikhar Chaudhry wasn't meant for the resolution of day to day issues of common men.  Rather, the main agenda behind lawyers' movement is to disregard the 3rd Nov 2007 actions of Musharraf by all means.   Pakistan is again witnessing a new turmoil, which will be far bigger than previous chaos, it has seen in last 10 years – how to repeal 17th amendment peacefully? Though President Zardari political tactics will out class the former military dictator shortly, but indeed, Musharraf rule in last 10 years is the root cause of all present day evils including 17th amendment which has given extra power or legitimacy to a dictator.   In spite of the fact that Qazi Hussain Ahmad, former head of MMA, has apologized to the nation for siding with Musharraf on the 17th amendment, but the nation is crippled with the affects of this amendment which is now becoming a main confronting issue among two political forces in today's scenario. Fazlur Rehman, the then Secretary General of MMA, didn't even bothered to acknowledge his political mistake; rather he has changed his prayers direction (Qibla) soon after identifying that the dying military dictator is reaching to his natural fate! Whole nation still remembers the way Fazlu Rehman's JUI has delayed the dissolution of NWFP provincial assembly to strengthen the smooth selection of President Musharraf again!   2003 years was remembered in Pakistan political history because all the worst political opponents were together in the name of Allah, Army & America which was symbolized by Musharraf. Altaf Hussain's MQM, Qazi's MMA & Jamat e Islami, Shujaat's PML (Q), Fazlur Rehman & Samil ul Haq's JUIs joined hands and instituted the 17th amendment to "gift" the nation by strengthening the dictator rule & indemnify all his wrong doings (of 12th October 1999) in the name of sham democracy and in a hope that the military dictator will dock off his Army uniform. This was the worst bargain ever agreed by religious or political parties and unfortunately the dictator didn't fulfill his promise!   PPPP wouldn't exclude itself from this "lovely political race" of an army man's support. They had bargained their own agenda – elaborated later in the form of NRO, probably with the help of foreign masters. Amin Faheem and PPPP national assembly members' absentia during Musharraf's second term voting for Presidential candidature was all pre planned according to wishes of foreign brokers, is still there in people's mind, to strengthen Musharraf's election.   Probably, Imran Khan's PTI and Nawaz Sharif's PML (N) were out of this "love affair" just because of their personal hatred with Pervaiz Musharraf!   Last evening, when one of my Pakistani colleagues has inquired; "who is responsible for this amendment? " I replied "perhaps, most of them!"

Silly Friends of Peoples Party (PPP) or hypocrites by Nadia Khan

Silly Friends of Peoples Party (PPP) or hypocrites By Nadia Khan   Beside twin brothers - Rahman Malik & Salman Taseer ill-advises and actions, there are number of "friends" of President Zardari whose advises have brought him to a stage where he became an isolated political individual who is losing ground quickly. Be it Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Water & Electricity minister's loud political sermons or Farzana Raja's, chairperson Benazir support programme sharp criticism against opposition or newly appointed PPP information secretary Fauzia Wahab's senseless arguments in various TV talk shows, there are few individuals who pretended themselves as more loyal to party chairperson than the party policies or its late leader.   Late Benazir Bhutto wanted to restore deposed judiciary including CJ. Due to this factor each party member had shown clear inclination towards the restoration of deposed judges. Due to electronic media age all these positive opinions of PPP "silly friends" have been recorded and kept in archives for usage when needed. When Asif Zardari had decided to change his action plan then number of reasons has been crafted to deny the restoration of deposed judges. During this phase few PPP individuals have outclassed the concept of hypocrisy.   o         Newly "selected" Chairman Senate Farooq Naik, personal solicitor of late Benazir Bhutto and now Asif Ali Zardari, was a die-hard lover of deposed Chief Justice during Benazir period in late 2007 and after getting into the govt he was off the view that Ifthikhar Chaudhry is gone, he will not be restored. Whole Pakistan has witnessed his two speeches on Geo network – BEFORE and AFTER. He was the main architect of the idea to force deposed judges to take fresh oath and join the judiciary under Dogar SC as fresh appointments.   o         Parliamentary Affairs Minister (Dr) Baber Awan, when realized the powerful strength of long march soon after its start from Lahore became sick and admitted in PIMS hospital, was much furious against deposed CJ. His speech on 14th Mar 2009 in Parliament is still on record. He was the one who had coined the idea that "there will not be two chief justices and Justice Dogar is the only CJ of Pakistan." He has single-handedly suggested that only a constitutional amendment would restore deposed judges for which we need to accept the actions of 3rd Nov by Musharraf. Not sure, as how he will defend his pervious statements after the restoration.   o         Soft-spoken Sind Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah was one of them because he has to support his party co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari only. His statements "How come Ifthikhar Chaudhry will be restored?" or "Just because of one man (deposed CJ) whole Pakistan is at stake" or "we will not allow lawyers to start off from Karachi or any part of Sind" are still there in newspapers and peoples mind.   o         Following his foot marks, deputy-speaker Sind assembly Sheila Raza, was at the fore front of biased statements against deposed CJ. In every TV talk show she used to defend Justice Dogar and advice deposed CJ to go abroad and allow PPP present govt to function peacefully.   o         Likewise, the state controlled electronic media PTV USA version was propagating President Zardari views only. Few PPP-minded veteran journalists in all PTV talk shows were kept on asking Nawaz Sharif to refrain himself and his PML (N) from lawyers' long march for the sake of Pakistan. God knows what was the best there!   o         TVONE network in Lucman Show, former provincial minister and PPP loyalist, has used much abusive language against deposed CJ by calling him as "Arsalan ka Bap (father of Arsalan, son of CJ) and most corrupt judge.   Surprisingly the moment deposed CJ is restored, all above personalities have changed their views and started admiring Ifthikhar Chaudhry. 17th March TV Talk Shows and Pakistani Newspapers are throwing their "changed views" candidly.   Sometimes, I ask myself, that Pakistani ruling class in terms of principles & patriotism, do they believe in "moral values" or they all are just running behind power for the sake of material benefits?

Judiciary restoration & new battlefield by Nadia Khan

Judiciary restoration and new battlefield! By Nadia Khan   At last, the deposed Chief Justice Ifthikhar Muhammad Chaudhry is restored and he will be in action from 22nd Mar 2009. The entire nation is celebrating this joyful moment – with a sense that Musharraf actions are being negated– and it would be, probably, the beginning of a new era for judiciary.   President Zardari, despite all assurances from Punjab Governor for cracking the mob when noticed the huge crowd with PML (N) chief Nawaz Sharif, had decided to change his mind, and allowed his party-premier to announce the restoration of deposed judges, a case pending since over an year after 18th February 2008 elections due to number of reasons, likely the NRO as most of his critics say, which might implicate President Zardari in a legal battle with Supreme court leading to his disqualification.   Till 15th March morning, the most trusted lieutenant of President Zardari, Interior Ministry advisor Senator Rahman Malik was engaged with his team in blocking all the sides of federal capital and the border sides of each province to avoid long-march participants' entrance. However, what he thought & worked out, finally over ruled and he has left with no option to remove all the barricades.   While many of the political parties including Qazi Hussain Ahmed, Imran Khan, and Sindhi-Bloch nationalist forces have hailed the Prime Minister timely action, Fazlur Rehman's statement came up as a surprise for most of the political analysts. He was off the view that this Long March is only the case of Punjab because Mian Nawaz Sharif is fighting to restore his party's deposed govt in Punjab. MQM also became critical and raised a point that this Long March is somehow become controversial due to the slogans chanted against Sind during this march. Later, Altaf Hussain has issued the party statement in favour of this restoration.   Beside Fazlur Rahman and MQM, as the two political forces are mostly considered as opportunist groups by being under the fold of all govts including former President Musharraf and now in present PPP-led govt, this could be a beginning a new era for judiciary. As Chief Justice has to handle number of issues crop up since 3rd November 2007 such as:   1.       Review of the recently appointed higher judiciary judges as number of appointments have been made early this month 2.       Review of pending petitions, like missing Pakistanis, NRO suo moto, and Chak Shahzad farm 3.       Incorporation of Charter of Democracy (CoD) guidelines to setup new judges appointments 4.       Dealing with those who took oath under last PCO on 3rd Nov 2007 according to CoD     As the two main rival forces have taken a cease fire stance after the announcement of prime minister, it is likely anticipated that a new amendment, a mother of all amendments, would shape up in Parliament soon to indemnify the actions of 3rd Nov 2007 by Pervaiz Musharraf and rectify the changes made under 17th amendment. This could abolish the extra powers of President such as 58 2(B) to dissolve assembly, armed forces head appointments, life-long ban once disqualified by any higher court, bar on 3rd time premiership election and so on.   Keeping all this in stock, it is said that a real battle is on its way once situation would cool down soon in Punjab after PML (N) provincial govt reinstatement (through higher judiciary) and replacement in governor's house!

Judiciary restoration and new constitutional amendment by Nadia Khan

Judiciary restoration and new constitutional amendment By Nadia Khan   At last, the deposed Chief Justice Ifthikhar Muhammad Chaudhry is restored and he will be in action from 22nd Mar 2009. The entire nation is celebrating this joyful moment – with a sense that nation has rejected Musharraf actions– and it would be, probably, the beginning of a new era for judiciary. President Zardari, when yesterday noticed the crowd with Nawaz Sharif, had decided to change his mind and allowed his party-premier to announce the restoration of deposed judges, a case pending since over an year after 18th February 2008 elections due to number of reasons, likely the NRO as most of his critics say, which might implicate President Zardari in a legal battle with Supreme court leading to his disqualification.   Till 15th March morning, the most trusted lieutenant of President Zardari, Rahman Malik was engaged with his team in blocking all the sides of federal capital and the border sides of each province to avoid long-march participants' entrance. However, what he thought & worked out, finally over ruled and he has left with no option to remove all the barricades.   While many of the political parties including Qazi Hussain Ahmed, Imran Khan, and Sindhi-Bloch nationalist forces have hailed the Prime Minister timely action, Fazlur Rehman's statement came up as a surprise for most of the political analysts. He was off the view that this Long March is only the case of Punjab because Mian Nawaz Sharif is fighting to restore his party's deposed govt in Punjab . MQM, also became critical and raised a point that this Long March is somehow became controversial due to the slogans chanted against Sind . Later, Altaf Hussain has issued the party statement in favour of this restoration.   Beside, Fazlur Rahman and MQM, as the two political forces are mostly considered as opportunist political groups by being under the fold of former President Musharraf and now in present PPP-led govt, this could be a beginning a new era for judiciary. As Chief Justice has to handle number of issues crop up since 3rd November 2007 – such as:   1.       Review of the recently appointed higher judiciary judges as number of appointments have been made early this month 2.       Review of pending petitions, like missing Pakistanis, NRO suo moto, and Chak Shahzad farm 3.       Incorporation of Charter of Democracy (CoD) guidelines to setup new judges appointments     As the two main rival forces have taken a cease fire stance after the announcement of prime minister, it is likely anticipated that a new amendment, a mother of all amendments, would shape up in Parliament soon to indemnify the actions of 3rd Nov 2007 by Pervaiz Musharraf and rectify the changes made under 17th amendment. This could abolish the power of President such as 58 2(B), forces head appointments, life-long ban once disqualified by any higher court, bar on 3rd time premiership election and so on.   Keeping all this in stock, it is said that a real battle is on its way once situation would cool down soon in Punjab after PML (N) provincial govt reinstatement (through higher judiciary) and replacement in governor's house!

Prime Minister Benazir Vs President Zardari by Nadia Khan

Prime Minister Benazir Vs President Zardari By Nadia Khan   Though Rehman Malik's, former FIA director, administrative tactics to handle lawyers peaceful protest, have started late last night with the apprehension of number of civil society members, political activists, and leading lawyers all over Pakistan, but detention of famous women's right activist, Tahira Abdullaha becomes the first drop of rain, that will be a whistle of change in Pakistan ruling corridors. Even information minister, Sherry Rehman wasn't able to defend govt action against her.   Zardari loyalist in present PPP govt are trying to handle political issues -judiciary restoration, imposition of governor rule or disqualification of Sharif brothers- with the help of Police, the same police with which they were fighting –altogether- on streets just 18 months before during Musharraf's dictatorial regime. Now they are split into Zardari-Naiek-Khosa and Gilani-Rabbani-Baig groups.   There are two powerbases within present PPP govt – Prime Minister, helplessly, not authorized to exercise his Chief-Executive powers whereas Information, Economics, and Interior Ministries are under direct control of President Zardari through his own-chosen loyalists. This has resulted "funny" actions such as;   1.       As per media reports, Governor Rule in Punjab has been imposed in consultation with Prime Minister whereas internal reports say that Prime Minister Gilani is quite upset that "his name is used in media hand outs" and he wasn't taken in confidence or consulted   2.       Few of the civil society members were arrested even prior to the Long March. Prime Minister is excusing himself for such actions; whereas he is suppose to stop the execution of detention orders   3.       Few Zardari group's federal ministers in various TV talk Shows are defending President Zardari while denying that late Benazir Bhutto was in favour of Chief Justice restoration   4.       Funniest embarrassment came up when a TV anchor had replayed late Benazir's speech (10th Nov 07) outside Ifthikhar Chaudhry house in which she had categorically demanded restoration of 2nd Nov 07 judiciary including Chief Justice. The federal minister, who appeared to be Zardari's loyalist, in spite of Benazir's voice, claimed that Benazir in here speech only said "restoration of Chief Justice, she doesn't mean Ifthikhar Chaudhry!" This has made all the participants of programme to laugh loudly and caused more embarrassment for PPP & Zardari. Because Ifthikhar Chaudhry was made deposed and Dogar was the pet of a dictator!   Years before, few Indian media reports (can't be confirmed) suggest that, "there was a technical separation between the wife and the husband and they both used to live far apart – one in Dubai and other in New York with his pet dogs only!"   Sometimes, I ask myself, as why late Benazir Bhutto used to keep away her husband from politics after the failure of her 2nd term as Prime Minister? Is that so, to keep the problems of 160m poor souls & Pakistan as less as possible!

Dead Bhuttos were more charismatic than alive Zardari? by Nadia Khan

Dead Bhuttos were more charismatic than alive Zardari? By Nadia Khan   Soon the crack down started against Lawyers, Civil Society members, and political forces last night, the situation goes back to 1977 when combined opposition had refused to accept the results of rigged-elections and they demanded fresh & fair elections. Rest of Bhutto's story is in front of all with a saying that, "if Bhutto's judicial trial wasn't fair then today's opposition leader; Nawaz Sharif's trial is also not fair and if barring Nawaz from Politics is correct then Bhutto's hanging was absolutely justified because both are Supreme Court decisions!"   President Zardari has to learn from his father-in-law as how he had retreated against the then Opposition and agreed to fresh elections. Today not only Opposition, Civil Society, and major political forces are against of Zardari-dictatorial rule but media, especially electronic media, is portraying the real snap of President - a man who doesn't care about his promises and "weak" voices within his party like Aitazaz Ahsan, Raza Rabbani, & Yousuf Raza Gilani are watching the whole turmoil with patience!   With broad context – the lawyers' requirements are simpler than any political forces hidden agendas. Since its start they are not AGREEING to 2nd November 2007 actions of the then Army Chief due to later personal gains.   Would this mean that President Zardari – who had failed to secure 2/3 majority in both houses of Parliament – likes to validate 2nd Nov 07 acts like it was done in 8th and 17th amendments. The answer is, unfortunately, yes.   Would this mean that all the accusations of Mian Nawaz –as revealed by him recently against President Zardari, are correct? A business deal was offered to Sharif brothers whom they didn't like for some of their own motives!   If so then PPP CEC has a bigger problem. Within PPP, Zardari-Naiek-Khosa group is about to overrule everything even the accords and agreements which normally, political parties do, time to time, with others thus leaving "no-trust" situation for whole party structure. Similarly Aitazaz-Rabbani-Gilani group would fail to secure formidable role in near future. Other stalwarts like Jehangir Badar or Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, are unfortunately without any clear political vision, would provide their weight towards the powerbase only blindly. Today the new definition of PPP is a party that claims itself a strong supporter of independent judiciary, civil values, and democratic reforms since its inception and especially during late Benazir period, is changing its main nomenclature to a group of power-hungry politicians who could deviate the path of their founding fathers for a dictator.   Because late Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto had left no option for countrymen to over throw him constitutionally, paved the way for military forces to move forward and had taken the country to storm for next 11 years. Likewise President Zardari had left no option to work out any possible solution (with his like-minded group of PPP workers) however he has to realize that "dead Bhuttos" were much more charismatic for PPP to gain power in 1988 & 2008. In Zardari case, he wouldn't be!!!!

Mastermind behind Sri Lankan team attack by Nadia Khan

Who is the main culprit – Sri Lankan team attack? By Nadia Khan   As per media reports, when Jammat ud Dawah (JuD) / Lashker e Tayyaba (LeT) contacted to clarify their role in Sri Lankan team attack they have very strange answer, "We know that this attack would serve India more than any one, so we weren't there!" Further questioning was responded with strange facts, "We haven't missed our targets, even once, and this is a failed attack, so you could identify our role in it!"   By looking at the activities, horror skill sets, and commanding nature of attacks carried out so far by the terrorists including JuD/LeT it is safely said that, "normally they don't miss their targets especially when they carry suicide jackets."   The painful history has taught us that so far none of the suicide attacks, carried out by radical forces in Pakistan, were unsuccessful including high profile cases.   With this analysis, some more strange facts came to limelight:   1.       The duration of attack was 10 or 11 minutes only & terrorists preferred to run away as quick as possible 2.       Terrorists had missed the target – the bus – and they didn't open the fire at the tires of the bus why? 3.       Then only the bus could have stopped and terrorists could use the rocket-launcher easily 4.       Or they could capture the team players for their reasons   From various videos, it looks like that 'terrorists' have been given a task of indiscriminate firing only for few minutes and to run away from the scene leaving all their belongings especially suicide jackets (why were they not wearing them?) biscuits, bags, launcher, bullets, and large amount of ammunition in a car & rickshaw leaving a foot-print that they wanted to hijack the players bus.   TV reports say that there was only one mobile police van protecting the bus carrying Sri Lankan players and umpires and a traffic police sergeant was on a motorcycle clearing the way. Probably eight young terrorists were standing at the three sides of round about and moment the bus had reached the turning point they started firing at the front Police van & the bus. The firing went on for 10 or 11 minutes (8:35am till 8:46am) only and these terrorists dispersed in nearby lanes.   With first burst of fire on front Police van, those policemen sitting on front seats had received the bullets without getting chance to respond including the traffic sergeant who was suppose to clear the way for players bus. Policemen sitting at the back of same van responded the terrorists attack however as they were surrounded from three sides they couldn't do much. Meanwhile these terrorists moved away from the scene quickly. Two poor – one on motor cycle and one pedestrian caught in between this firing and lost their lives. God bless all of them including Shaheed policemen as they were the victim of someone's failed drama!   Surprisingly, the impatient governor Punjab has blamed the same group of terrorists who had carried out Mumbai attacks, within 2 hours while visiting the site. Later, his promise to publish the report within 24 hours didn't come true and it's getting delayed further. After that in the night time, Punjab Police confirmed that they had caught two of the terrorists, made the whole situation more suspicious.   Keeping the above mentioned facts in mind one can assume the quality of politicised Punjab Police investigations and it would be another "Closed File" case.   As the motive of this terrorism is not yet known, if some how it could be confirmed that terrorists target wasn't terrorism and real "requirements" were to divert the attention from the issues of Punjab then it would become a larger conspiracy against Pakistan. Wouldn't be possible, as Pakistan stake is at risk, either Pakistan Army's Military Intelligence (MI) or ISI could investigate this incident and unearth the local & foreign hands; probably Indian element RAW and its Pakistani associates!!!!

A religious leader by Nadia Khan

A religious leader By Nadia Khan   He has started his political career as the President of a student wing of a religious party that holds partial majority in Baluchistan and NWFP provinces. After the death of his renowned father he has set up his own faction of the party and laid down the foundation of "political inheritance" by disregarding many of his teachers and seniors.   He claims that he is the only religious force who interacted with secular political parties under the Alliance for Restoration of Democracy (ARD) movement to build up moderate culture in 80s and fight against the then dictatorial rule. However after 20 years he has been termed as an all-time-ally of establishment who sticks to powerbase only!   During 90s he was indicted in diesel permit scandal case, which refers to corruption in export of diesel (which Pakistan seldom does) but he survived due to volatile political environment and weak print media, however common men term him as "Mullah Diesel."   He became short tempered while answering a famous TV anchor to a question about his earnings & finances; he replied that, "I beg to people for pennies and paisas, Zakat & donations (Khayrat)!" Being a poor and needy, along with his armed commandos he has setup 1500 religious seminaries in NWFP, Baluchistan and Southern Punjab provinces that later turned to be the "foundation houses" for the formation of Taliban forces initially in Afghanistan and now in Pakistan. His critics say that he has served as the Chairman of Foreign Affairs Committee of National Assembly under the Premiership of late Benazir Bhutto's govt. In that capacity he has built up an extensive followers network in the Middle East to gather both moral and financial support for his "Pro Taliban" cause. He also travelled to the United States and met senior officials.   He claims himself as champion of democracy but instituted 17th amendment in 1973 constitution that had barred major political leaders from mainstream politics and given extra powers to the  President of Pakistan who was a serving Army Chief also. Once the dictator relinquishes the office due to impeachment pressure, he quickly turned his face towards the new "Lords" of democracy and became a strong voice to revoke this amendment. His political opponents say that initially he was fierce opponent of Musharraf regime over US intervention of Afghanistan but later turned himself into a "friendly opposition" who has helped the re election of Musharraf in army uniform by delaying the dissolution of NWFP assembly.   In October 2001, President Musharraf had placed him under house arrest & charged him with sedition for inciting the people against the armed forces and for trying to overthrow the government. In a strange move, after 4 months only, he was set free in March 2002 and all the cases against him were withdrawn. When exposed, he has refuted all the land corruption charges against him while terming the newspapers and journalist as agents of Jews who published this story. Once the journalist filed the case in the court he has made an off the record deal with the said journalist outside the court and taken back his own words. Likewise after prime minister, Senate committee members and people of Pakistan pressure his brother has made an unconditional compromise with his junior and returned back the Prado car which his arm commands has snatched from his sub ordinate.   He claims himself as "Voice of Poorest" but instituted his four out of five brothers in politics; two each in national and provincial assemblies. Unfortunately fifth is a government servant. He has sidelined any one including his long-time lieutenant Hafiz Hussain Ahmed, who has raised his voice for formal elections within the party and continued the politics of inheritance. He paid no attention to common men complaints that his party local leadership in Tank (Maulana Sharifuddin and Maulana Asamuddin) in last five years in government of NWFP made the record bribe and even for transfer of PTC teachers they received Rs.20,000 per candidate from the poors.   He has opposed deposed Chief Justice Ifthikhar Chaudhry and said that, "he had given a verdict against the Hasba Bill which was aimed at promulgating Islamic laws in the NWFP." However his views about Chief Justice Chaudhry (especially during the All Parties Conference) were seen as part of his efforts to become prime minister of Pakistan after reaching some understanding with the then President Gen Pervaiz Musharraf.   While a coalition partner with present govt, he didn't raise his voice for independent judiciary when only People's Party workers and those rejected in elections got inducted as judges in highest judiciary.   He claims himself as part of Opposition but remain in the corridors of power since last 15 years by enjoying as National Assembly Committee Chairman for Foreign Affairs, Opposition Leader in National Assembly and currently enjoying the status of hidden federal minister.   Now he is very much instrumental to arrange peace deal between two confronting leaders for reconciliation however his former close colleagues warn both parties about his shady character in politics for personal gains only.   His honest & sincere father must be turning in his grave violently about his & other son's activities!!!!

Altaf Hussain - now an admirer of Taliban founders! by Nadia Khan

Altaf Hussain - now an admirer of Taliban founders! By Nadia Khan   While Altaf Hussain was admiring the only woman Prime Minister of Pakistan – late Benazir Bhutto during his rally, I was recalling his interview given to Rediff, Mumbai (during his India trip) to its Senior Editor Sheela Bhatt, published on 18th November 2004, responding to her question: "Like you, Benazir Bhutto is also in exile. Do you meet her? Have you overcome your differences?" Mr Hussain said: "Please don't compare me to her. She is a feudal lady. Her politics is to gain power, power, power. She raised the Taleban. And lives only for power." (http://in.rediff.com/news/2004/nov/18inter.htm)   On 27th April 2002, Mr Hussain had said about PPP leader, Benazir Bhutto, "In 1988, Sindh unconditionally supported Benazir Bhutto for the premiership. However, she did not fulfill even a single promise and none of the issues of Sindh were resolved. When Benazir became Prime Minister for the second time, thousands of our workers were extrajudicially murdered in fake police encounters to please the establishment. The Government gave the murderous police officers medals and rewards, and the same police officers committed the heinous murder of her brother, Mir Murtaza Bhutto, in broad daylight. Why doesn't she inform the people of Sindh who killed Mir Murtaza Bhutto? Today she is saying that if she is made the Prime Minister, she would be ready to accept General Musharraf as President for five years." (Ref Christain Post 27th April 2002, http://www.westerndefense.org/articles/Pakistan/may02.htm)   The worst moment came on August 12th 2005, while addressing the public meetings simultaneously at Thatta, Dadu, Badin and Shikarpur on telephone from London, Mr Hussain again blasted the PPP leader Benazir Bhutto, "Despite coming into power twice Benazir Bhutto never tried to set up a commission to investigate the case, PPP merely raised the slogan of Jeay Bhutto instead of finding out and making public the circumstances that led to Mr Bhutto's hanging."  He recalled that one of Mr Bhutto's two sons, Shahnawaz, was murdered in France and Murtaza was killed in Karachi, but Benazir Bhutto despite being in power, never disclosed the names of those involved in the murder of Murtaza Bhutto. "How could a leader who preferred to remain silent on the murder of her brother, could defend the rights of the people of Sindh," he asked. "The People's Party, instead of unmasking the killers of Mr Bhutto and his sons, joined hands with them, not once but on several occasions," Mr Hussain charged. (http://www.dawn.com/2005/08/12/nat3.htm)   Till 9th October 2007, Altaf Hussain was worst critic of Benazir Bhutto and ready to hinder Benazir's arrival on 18th Oct 2007 in Karachi , which he controls from London . He was advised by British authorities and finally took assurance from Altaf Hussain that, "he & his Karachi-based party will not hinder Benazir's return." This was "because the MQM leadership is based in London the British are taking the lead and the Americans are working with them," The Independent quoted a western diplomat, as saying. (http://www.britainnews.net/story/289203)   I could draw few conclusions out of Mr Hussain's approach in 2002, 2004, and 2005:   1.       He doesn't like Benazir Bhutto at all – not even willing to get compared 2.       He feels that Benazir Bhutto is only a power hungry politician 3.       He charged Benazir as the founder of Taliban 4.       He charged Benazir as killer of her own brother and purposely ignorant about killers 5.       He feels that Benazir, a politician who had done nothing for Sind   And in 2009, same Mr Hussain is: 1.       Die-hard lover of Benazir, rallying in her favour 2.       Delivering 2 hours long speech, attributing her charismatic character 3.       Fully ready to ignore her "Taliban Founder" character 4.       Since last few months warning PPP-led provincial govt against resurgence of Taliban in Karachi   With this state of Mr Hussain's unclear philosophy, Muhajir community, MQM and PPP workers are all confused; even Nafees Siddiqui has resigned from PPP Sind secretary general position and many of MQM stalwarts are finding ways to distance themselves from Mr Hussain's unstable approaches!