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Why is Pakistan’s counter terrorism strategy ineffective?

By
South Asia Press
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Pakistan has been jolted by three high-profile terror attacks recently. The Majeed Brigade of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has taken responsibility for two attacks in Balochistan. The first targeted the Turbat naval air base, which reportedly deploys Chinese drones and two, the Port Authority Complex of the Gwadar port, operated and expanded by the Chinese. The third attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) killed five Chinese engineers working at the Dasu Hydropower Project on the Indus River under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These attacks in close succession, on Chinese personnel and facilities underscore the degree of unhappiness of the common man with the exploitative Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that China has thrust upon the people of Pakistan. More importantly, it signals the complete inability of the Pakistani state to combat terrorism and the knee jerk reaction is to blame such attacks on India and more recently, on Afghanistan.

In the latest series of such attacks, five Chinese workers were killed (26 March) when a vehicle packed with explosives was rammed into the bus in which they were travelling from Islamabad to their camp at the Dasu hydro-electric dam in KPK province.  A day earlier, militants launched an attack (25 March) on the Pakistani naval station PNS Siddique, one of its core functions was to provide support to the CPEC, the flagship BRI project in Pakistan. Chinese drones are reported to be stationed at the naval air base at Turbat, in Balochistan. While the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) was suspected to have carried out the attack on the naval air base, the deadly attack on Chinese workers in KPK is suspected to have been carried out by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The involvement of diverse militant groups in these attacks point to the widespread ire in Pakistan against the BRI being sponsored by China.

Significantly, Chinese personnel and interests have borne the brunt of periodic terror attacks in spite of the constitution of a special force to protect them. The presence of a number of Chinese personnel in Pakistan in connection with the CPEC projects, makes them an easy target and is a serious issue for China. The Chinese are reported to have leaned heavily on the Pakistanis behind the scenes to counter this threat effectively. China’s diplomatic mission in Pakistan has demanded that Islamabad carries out a thorough investigation into the deadly attack at the Dasu hydro-power station. On an earlier occasion, Beijing had demanded that China be allowed to arrange its own security for Chinese personnel working in Pakistan, but this was not agreed to by Islamabad, with the contention that this will amount to sacrificing the sovereignty of Pakistan to China.

The ineffectiveness of the Pakistani state’s response is clearly shown in the multiple attacks on Chinese personnel and facilities over the years. The findings of a recent three-month study by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Islamabad, indicates that in the first three months of 2024 at least 432 individuals have been killed due to attacks by militant groups, with more than 92% of the total casualties (and 86% of the total attacks) attributed to KPK and Balochistan and which share a border with Afghanistan. The study has shown that at least 245 terrorist attacks occurred in Pakistan, including limited instances of counter-terrorism operations. The findings indicate that Balochistan witnessed a staggering 96% increase in violence, with the number of victims rising from 91 in the first three months of 2023 to 178.

The latest in the series of attacks occurred on 20 March, on the Gwadar Port in the Balochistan province where China is planning to establish a naval base. Heavily armed BLA militants entered the complex, opened fire, and carried out multiple explosions. The Gwadar Port has been projected by Chinese and Pakistani authorities as the crowning glory of CPEC, though in commercial terms the port is a complete failure. It will, however, provide China with a convenient access to the Indian Ocean region. In yet another similar attack on Chinese personnel at the Dasu hydro power dam by militants of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan in July 2021, nine Chinese engineers and four others were killed in a suicide bombing on a bus in which they were travelling. Groups like the BLA and the TTP are opposed to Chinese investments in Balochistan and accuse China of exploiting the resource-rich province of Pakistan.

The BLA has been vocal against the CPEC, warning of more attacks if China does not vacate Balochistan. They have also warned that the BLA has formed a special unit particularly to attack Chinese personnel and installations in Balochistan. Incidentally, the responsibility of the latest attack on Gwadar Port has been claimed by the “Majeed Brigade” of BLA, which is opposed to Chinese investments in the Balochistan province and accuses China and Pakistan of exploiting the resources of the region. The reality is that projects sponsored by China bring little benefit to the common people in Pakistan. At Gwadar, local fishermen complain that they are no longer allowed to carry out fishing in the area where the port has come up. People have been forced to part with agricultural land in places where CPEC projects, like power plants have come up. Charges of terrorism have been slapped on people who have protested such forcible acquisition of land. The highly polluting thermal power plants have also raised health issues as well.

Pakistan has followed exploitative policies in Balochistan and China has become complicit in these policies through its projects that have brought little benefit or employment opportunities to locals. The Saindak Copper-Gold Project run by the Chinese and construction activities in relation to the Gwadar port are some examples. China’s activities in the strategically located Balochistan, particularly the potential projection of its naval power from Gwadar and other Pakistani ports, sitting close to the Strait of Hormuz, have been a matter of concern. Recall that Rehman Malik then Interior Minister of Pakistan had said in 2012 that 14 organisations were operating in Balochistan, and both “friends” and “foes” of Pakistan were equally involved in financing and encouraging them. This is really a result of Pakistan’s own policies regarding the state sponsorship of terror. The more the deep state colludes and nurtures the terror infrastructure, the blowback will be harder. Pakistan needs to face this reality as it faces an angry China whose unsaid message is that Islamabad is incapable of combating terrorism and protecting Chinese interests in Pakistan.

Turbat Naval Base Attack: Pakistan’s Governance Failures and China’s Economic Dilemma

By
South Asia Press
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The recent assault on the Pakistan naval air base in Turbat, Balochistan, by Baloch insurgents serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated grievances and resistance prevailing within the region. The Baloch rebellions in Pakistan have been fueled by decades of systemic marginalization, economic exploitation, and cultural suppression by the Pakistani state. Despite repeated calls for autonomy, equality, and justice, the Baloch people have been met with repression and neglect. Faced with the denial of their fundamental rights and the failure of peaceful avenues for change, many Baloch have been left with no choice but to take up arms in defense of their dignity, identity, and freedom. The insurgency represents a desperate struggle to reclaim sovereignty over their land and resources, to resist external exploitation, and to assert their right to self-determination. This attack, coupled with previous incidents, not only highlights Pakistan’s governance failures but also raises questions about China’s economic interests and their implications for regional stability.

WHAT HAPPENED AT THE TURBAT NAVAL BASE?

On March 25th, Baloch insurgents launched an audacious attempt to infiltrate the Pakistan naval air base in Turbat. The naval base holds strategic importance within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a comprehensive infrastructure project that spans roads, energy initiatives, and various development ventures. This corridor is a key component of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic cooperation across regions. Despite their efforts, security forces managed to repel the attackers, resulting in the death of all assailants.2 However, the loss of one paramilitary soldier underscores the seriousness of the situation and the challenges faced by security forces in Balochistan.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a prominent separatist group in Balochistan, claimed responsibility for the assault. This attack is not an isolated incident but rather part of the BLA’s ongoing struggle against what they perceive as Islamabad’s oppressive rule and China’s exploitative economic agenda in the region. The BLA’s actions underscore the simmering discontent and resistance among the Baloch people, who have long been marginalized and oppressed by the Pakistani state. The BLA has been at the forefront of the fight for Baloch rights, autonomy, and freedom in Pakistan. Through a combination of guerrilla warfare, targeted attacks on military and government installations, and international advocacy efforts, the BLA has sought to highlight the grievances of the Baloch people and draw attention to their struggle for self-determination.

The attack on the naval base has broader implications for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. China’s extensive investments in infrastructure projects in Balochistan, particularly the development of the Gwadar port, have been targeted by Baloch insurgents. This attack highlights the security risks associated with CPEC investments and raises concerns about China’s long-term strategy in Pakistan. It underscores the urgent need for both nations to reassess their priorities and policies, prioritizing the well-being and rights of the Baloch people over short-term economic gains.

PAKISTAN’S RESPONSE TO BALOCH INSURGENCY

Pakistan’s response to the Baloch insurgency has been characterized by a combination of denial, repression, and neglect. Instead of addressing the root causes of Baloch grievances, Islamabad has resorted to heavy-handed tactics, including military crackdowns and enforced disappearances. The recent attack is a reflection of Pakistan’s failure to address the legitimate aspirations of the Baloch people and its inability to provide governance and development in the region. Despite decades of Baloch grievances regarding autonomy, economic exploitation, and cultural suppression, Islamabad’s response has been marked by repression, militarization, and denial. Enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and crackdowns on dissent have become commonplace, exacerbating rather than resolving tensions. The lack of meaningful dialogue and inclusive development initiatives has further alienated Baloch communities, perpetuating a cycle of violence and resistance. Pakistan’s failure to acknowledge and address the legitimate aspirations of the Baloch people not only undermines its claims to democracy and justice but also fuels instability and undermines national cohesion.

BRINGING PEACE TO THE REGION

China’s steadfast support for Pakistan’s policies in Balochistan, driven primarily by its economic interests, has come at a cost. The targeting of Chinese assets and personnel by Baloch insurgents, including the recent suicide attack that killed five Chinese nationals and one Pakistani in the country’s northwest Shangla region, underscores the risks associated with China’s investments in the region. China’s myopic focus on economic gains has blinded it to the human rights abuses and security challenges in Balochistan and elsewhere in the country, posing a dilemma for Beijing as it seeks to balance its economic interests with regional stability.

The Baloch insurgency is not merely a law and order issue but a legitimate struggle for rights, autonomy, and justice. Baloch have long been subjected to systemic discrimination, economic exploitation, and cultural marginalization by the Pakistani state. The attack on the naval base is a manifestation of the Balochis’ determination to resist oppression and reclaim their rights. It serves as a wake-up call for both Islamabad and Beijing and highlights the need for Pakistan to address governance failures and respect the rights of the Baloch people, and for China to reconsider its economic interests in the region in light of security risks and human rights concerns.

Pakistan’s Governance Crisis and South Asian Stability

By
South Asia Press
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Pakistan is confronted with formidable challenges on its path to progress, stemming from issues within its social, political, economic, and security domains. The repeated military intervention in the country’s north west against local Islamists since 2009, prompted by external pressures rather than a genuine resolve to address internal problems, underscores a concerning trend of Pakistan responding to external influences rather than proactively solving its domestic issues. This raises questions about Pakistan’s autonomy in shaping its policies and actions.

To fully grasp the intricate dynamics of Pakistan’s politics and security, an in-depth analysis of the relationship between the government and its citizens becomes imperative.

The multifaceted landscape of Pakistan, coupled with historical conflicts and regional tensions with neighboring countries like Afghanistan, adds layers of complexity to the internal political scenario. The unresolved issues stemming from the Durand Line and the historical struggle to establish a unified national identity continue to challenge the country’s governance. The reliance on religion as a unifying force is diminishing, further complicating the nation-building process.The prevalence of bad governance in Pakistan bears significant implications for South Asia, primarily due to the presence of terrorist organisations within the country. The intricate nexus between governance deficiencies and the flourishing of extremist elements poses a potent threat to regional stability, security, and geopolitical dynamics.

Firstly, Pakistan’s governance challenges contribute to an environment of political instability, which becomes a breeding ground for extremist ideologies. The lack of effective governance mechanisms allows for the perpetuation of corruption, nepotism, and inefficiency, creating a vacuum that extremist groups often exploit to gain influence. This instability not only hampers Pakistan’s internal development but also spills over into neighboring regions, unsettling the delicate balance in South Asia.

Secondly, the presence of terrorist organisations in Pakistan, operating with relative impunity, poses a direct threat to regional security. The porous borders and weak governance structures enable these groups to maintain safe havens and plan and launch attacks not only within Pakistan but also in neighboring countries. This has far-reaching consequences for the stability of South Asia, fostering an environment where cross-border terrorism becomes a persistent challenge.

Besides, the influence of extremist ideologies tends to transcend national borders, making bad governance in Pakistan a regional concern. The porous nature of borders in South Asia allows for the easy movement of radicalized individuals and the exchange of resources among terrorist organisations. Weak governance in Pakistan exacerbates these challenges, making it difficult for the country to counter the cross-border movement of extremists effectively. Bad governance also impacts counter-terrorism efforts in the region. The lack of effective law enforcement, judicial loopholes, and compromised intelligence-sharing mechanisms hinder collaborative efforts among South Asian nations to combat terrorism. This creates an environment where terrorist organisations can operate with relative ease, further destabilizing the entire region.

Additionally, the presence of terrorist organisations in Pakistan contributes to a negative perception of South Asia on the global stage. The region’s image is marred by concerns about security, hindering economic development, foreign investment, and diplomatic relations. This, in turn, perpetuates a cycle of instability and underdevelopment, which can have far-reaching consequences for the prosperity of South Asian nations. Moreover, Pakistan grapples with societal divisions, particularly evident in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where tribe-based disparities persist. The prevailing governance system, incompatible with traditional tribal structures, contributes to ambiguity regarding power dynamics. The concentration of power among a select few, including military personnel, exacerbates challenges, as the nexus between military officials and elected leaders often prioritizes personal gain over national service.

Political interference, particularly by appointing favorites in critical positions, hampers the effectiveness of local government’s accountability to the public. The inappropriate level of military involvement further skews the political landscape and influences the legal system. Internal conflicts, such as the confrontations with the Pakistani Taliban and the Balochistan Liberation Army, compound governance challenges. The recent elections in Pakistan were marred by chaos, with prominent politicians incarcerated, economic issues unresolved, and leadership disputes causing discord. Allegations of election irregularities cast doubt on the legitimacy of the process, contributing to the difficulty in addressing fundamental issues such as inflation, militant attacks, and power shortages.

Pakistan’s economic downturn will only intensify as the International Monetary Fund is hesitant from providing financial aid, possibly plunging Pakistan into a further severe economic crisis. The confluence of political uncertainty, financial constraints, and pervasive corruption further compounds the country’s challenges, pushing it towards a state of chaos. The erosion of public trust in the government poses a significant hurdle to efficient governance. As the World Bank emphasizes the inadequate allocation of funds to education, the specter of a future with a poorly educated populace looms large. The repercussions are already evident, with a growing number of Pakistanis falling into poverty and social living conditions deteriorating. A substantial portion of the population remains illiterate, and millions of children are denied access to education, painting a grim picture of Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape.

In conclusion, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture, grappling with a myriad of challenges that demand a comprehensive and nuanced approach. The intersection of political, economic, and security issues necessitates a concerted effort from policymakers to chart a sustainable path towards progress and stability, avoiding succumbing to external pressures. Addressing corruption, fostering inclusive governance, and prioritizing education emerge as pivotal steps to steer Pakistan away from its current precarious state. The imperative lies in adopting a balanced and pragmatic approach that acknowledges the intricacies of the issues at hand. Furthermore, the ramifications of Pakistan’s governance challenges extend beyond its borders, posing a significant threat to the stability and security of South Asia. The presence of terrorist organisations capitalizes on governance deficiencies, creating an environment conducive to their activities. To mitigate these risks, collaborative regional efforts, stringent counter-terrorism measures, and a collective commitment to addressing governance issues are essential. Only through a cohesive and proactive approach can Pakistan contribute to regional stability while simultaneously realizing its potential for resilience and prosperity.

References

https://www.dawn.com/news/1804084

https://www.dawn.com/news/1721825

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/15/pakistans-caretaker-pm-challenges-lie-ahead

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-22506464

Brutal state crackdown against Sindhi activists out on roads protesting in Pakistan

By
Taha Siddiqui
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Pakistan’s way of suppressing the voices of dissent violently was once again demonstrated, after the law enforcement agencies of Pakistan on Sunday launched a brutal crackdown against a demonstration organised by the family members of late Sindhi social activist Hidayat Lohar.

After Dr Mahrang Baloch, a young Baloch doctor who had taken on the might of the Pakistan military early this year, it is the turn of daughters of a prominent Sindhi intellectual and activist, Hidayat Lohar, who was killed by security agencies last month. His three young daughters, Sorath, Sarang and Sasui, were on the road, blocking the Nasirabad Highway, demanding an FIR.

Sasui Lohar and Sorath Lohar are the founders of the Voice of Missing Persons of Sindh, an organization aimed at supporting victims of enforced diappearences and their families to seek justice.

The police refused to accept their demand and the sisters were leading a street protest demanding action against those who killed their father, Hidayat Lohar but now they have been arrested.

WHO IS HIDAYAT LOHAR?

Hidayat Lohar, a well known intellectual and activist, had been on the target of security agencies for long. In 2017, he was abducted by security forces and released two years later after his daughters fought tooth and nail. A veteran teacher, Lohar has been active in Sindh politics and often fell foul with the military establishment.

On 16 February, Hidayat Lohar was assassinated by two unidentified gunmen who shot him while he was traveling to work. Such targeted killings have become a favourite weapon of the army and police forces to eliminate popular ethnic leaders. Dr Mahrang Baloch’s father too had met a similar fate. Several thousand others too have been `disappeared` by the security forces over the years.

BRUTAL CRACKDOWN AGAINST SINDHI ACTIVISTS NOW A REGULAR FEATURE

This is not the first time that Sindhi activists have been targeted by security forces and agencies. Last year, in September, Pakistan Rangers, a para-military force led by Army officers, killed at least four Sindhi villagers and injured nine others in Sakrand village. The local community was enraged by this targeted killing and said the villagers were shot only because they had protested the high-handedness of the security forces. The Rangers, on the other hand, countered that the killed villagers were members of a Sindhi militant group. No one knows the truth even though the then Interim Chief Minister had ordered an inquiry into the incident.

The murder of Hidayat Lohar has spread a wave of anger in the Sindhi community. His daughters have since his death been on the street demanding action from the government but the police continue to stall any request to file the First Information Report. The daughters refused to budge unless police filed an FIR and investigated the murder of their father.

In their support, sporadic protests have broken out in other parts of Sindh. In Karachi, protesters argued that forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings of political activists and innocent citizens have turned the country into a lawless state where no respect for human dignity exists. They pointed out how Dr Mahrang Baloch and her community had been squatting in Islamabad seeking return of their loved ones who were forcibly taken away by security forces without any formal charges. Amnesty International has called for an independent, impartial and prompt investigation into the killing of Lohar.

With the state refusing to pay heed to the cries of Sindhis, the protests by Lohar family was likely to turn into a major headache for the new government. The Baloch are already on the street and now the Sindhis. The people of Gilgit Baltistan have been protesting for long time over wheat and power issues. The Pashtuns are angry with the state over many issues, mainly for treating them as terrorism suspects and at the same time imposing Talibaization on their population. The entire ethnic population of Pakistan today feel marginalised by the state, as the Baloch have been feeling for decades.

There is no hope for missing Baloch, be it Sharif or Zardari

By
Taha Siddiqui
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0

The outcome of the February 8 elections has made no difference to the people of Balochistan; who continue to `disappear` or being killed as terrorists and their family members are treated as shabbily and cruelly as enemies, by the State.

Neither Shehbaz Sharif, who took over as the Prime Minister despite not winning a majority nor Imran Khan, who remains in prison despite winning the elections; have made any references towards the plight of people of Baluchistan.

The elections and its results have only made matters worse for Baloch who have been pleading every single institution, be it the legislature, the police, judiciary and the media, for the release of young and old Baloch kept in secret prisons by the Pak army.

A young doctor, Dr Mahrang Baloch, slept outside the Islamabad Press Club for weeks along with her crowd of protesters, and no one came out from their ivory towers to even talk to them. The army, on the other hand, snatched their blankets, mikes and other essentials, fired water cannons at them in peak winter days and then forced the press club to withdraw permission to hold the protest. The then interim Prime Minister, belonging to Balochistan, had abused them as `traitors` and refused to help them. Instead, he ordered the local police to harass the young doctor and her companions.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has also chosen to play a game of charade on the sensitive issue of beloved ones taken away forcibly by state agencies and locked up in secret prisons of torture. The apex court had been making loud noises about holding high officials of government and military accountable for countless disappearances of young Baloch, but the action in reality has been a mirage. Even in the latest case, the apex court had summoned the Interim Prime Minister but when he declined to attend the court on some pretext, the judges were quick to set up a committee of chiefs of three intelligence agencies, ISI, MI and IB, to find the whereabouts of the missing Baloch. There could have been nothing more humiliating and hypocritical. The world is aware that these are the same agencies which are behind the grave human rights violation of abducting and killing Baloch and other ethnic minorities, since creation of Pakistan.

Pakistan’s largest English daily, the Dawn, commented in its editorial that the state has more often blocked any effort to find a solution to the Baloch missing persons. The newspaper even chided the Interim Prime Minister for accusing the protesters like Mahrang Baloch of indulging in terrorism. The daily blamed the state for cruelly dismissing the protests as publicity stunts but facts are telling–people from Balochistan are disappearing every day with their families forced to march on the streets to know about their whereabouts.

Now that Shehbaz Sharif is the new Prime Minister and Asif Ali Zardari as the President, is there any likelihood of the issue of missing persons getting any priority. The answer is a clear ‘No’. Neither Sharif nor the Bhutto family, who have not actually won the mandate to rule, have shown any inclination to even hear Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other protesters even when they sat in Islamabad seeking the return of their loved ones. The hopelessness of the Baloch and Sindhi people has become so pervasive that they do not harbour any hope from anyone.

Twitter still inaccessible for more than 4 days in Pakistan.

By
Taha Siddiqui
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0

Popular social networking platform X, formerly Twitter, was inaccessible and banned in Pakistan on the fourth consecutive day, with the government still keeping mum about the disruption that began on Saturday last week, following election fraud allegations by a senior government official.

The social media platform was accessible for a few hours today, but its access was disrupted once again, with no official announcement.

Ahead of the February 8 general elections, users were unable to access several social media sites, for which authorities concerned blamed an error. However, on the polling day, the internet was shut down to avoid terrorism, according to the caretaker government. Following the sought-after polls, there were repeated disruptions in accessing X.

Internet shutdowns directly contradict constitutionally guaranteed rights like freedom of information (Article 19-A), freedom of speech (Article 19), and freedom of association (Article 17).

In its February 2018 ruling, the Islamabad High Court declared internet shutdowns against fundamental rights and constitution.

Digital rights activist and journalist Farieha Aziz said the ban on X persists without any official acknowledgement by the PTA or the caretaker government. Instead, she said, there is deflection by all quarters, while the “prime minister and the IT minister are using VPNs to post on X”.

Usama Khilji, director at Bolo Bhi, slammed the utter lack of transparency from the government. “There’s no notice, no announcement, no certainty around when the block will be lifted, which is creating a lot of uncertainty and an environment of disinformation, because people cannot access information with integrity, can’t access instant information, which is the defining nature of Twitter,” he said.

The United States called Wednesday on Pakistan to lift restrictions on X, formerly known as Twitter, after days of disruption following an election marred by fraud allegations.

“We are concerned by any report of restrictions on the exercise of the freedom of expression and association in Pakistan, including a partial or complete government-imposed internet shutdown,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.

“We continue to call on Pakistan to respect freedom of expression and restore access to any social media that has been restricted including Twitter, now known as X,” he said.

“We have and we will continue to emphasize the importance of respecting these fundamental freedoms during our engagements with Pakistani officials.”

 

BLOCKED SINCE FOUR DAYS

X went down in Pakistan on Saturday night after a senior government official made a public admission of vote manipulation in the February 8 election.

The two main dynastic parties, the army-backed Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), late Tuesday announced a coalition with smaller parties to govern the world’s fifth most populous nation.

Excluded from government were candidates loyal to jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. His supporters took the most seats even though they were forced to run as independents and they allege they would have enjoyed a decisive victory without rigging.

The United States has called for an investigation of fraud claims but declined to comment on the makeup of the coalition, which will need to be formally approved by the National Assembly.

Pakistan is an authoritarian regime: Democracy Index 2023. Only Asian country in the category

By
Taha Siddiqui
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0

A report from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) demoted Pakistan 11 places in the global ranking on the state of democracy and downgraded it from a “hybrid regime” to an “authoritarian regime”.

According to the EIU report, democratic standards across the world fell in 2023 amid the spread of wars, authoritarian crackdowns and declining levels of trust in mainstream political parties.

Titled Age of Conflict, the study provides a snapshot of the state of democracy in 165 independent states and two territories, and basing its scores on a range of indicators, each country is classified as one of four types of regime: full democracy, flawed democracy, hybrid regime or authoritarian regime.

A case in point is Pakistan, which has suffered the biggest regression in the Asian region — its score falling to 3.25, triggering a downgrade from ‘hybrid regime’ to ‘authoritarian regime’ and a decline of 11 places in the global ranking. It is worth noting that more than half of the 28 countries in the region recorded a decline in their scores (15), and only eight improved their scores.

Pakistan was among six states on the globe to have their classification changed — the others being Greece (which moved up to ‘full democracy’), Papua New Guinea and Paraguay (which improved from ‘hybrid regimes’ to become ‘flawed democracies’) and Angola (which was upgraded from its authoritarian classification to ‘hybrid regime’) — and the only Asian country to be downgraded so significantly.

While noting the fact that the country has gone to the polls, the EIU pointed out that: “Unsurprisingly, elections in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Russia — where opposition forces are subject to state repression — will not bring regime change or more democracy.”

One of the reasons for this decline can be found in the indicators ‘electoral process and pluralism’ and ‘functioning of government’, where the EIU notes that the “outsized political influence of the military… means that elections are far from being free, fair or competitive”.

Pakistan’s score on the democracy index remained a little over 4 since 2008. It was for the first in 2023 that the country’s score tumbled to 3.25 during the coalition government primarily comprising of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F).

Interestingly, Pakistan’s 2023 score on the democracy index is even worse than 2006 (3.92) when military ruler Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf was at the helm of the affairs.

Speaking to local media, Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (Pildat) Ahmed Bilal Mehboob termed Pakistan’s downgrading as “disappointing”.

“This is a very disappointing development as Pakistan has scored the lowest since 2017 and our category has also been downgraded from a hybrid regime’ to an authoritarian regime,” he added.

He also urged all stakeholders to “undertake serious soul searching at this state of affairs”.

According to the EIU report, only 7.8 percent of the global population reside in a “full democracy”, and substantially more than one-third live under authoritarian rule.

The top three places in the index are occupied by Norway, New Zealand and Iceland, while the final three countries are North Korea, Myanmar and Afghanistan.

US, UK and EU urge probe into Pakistan elections, express concerns

By
Taha Siddiqui
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0

The United States, Britain and the European Union have separately expressed concerns about Pakistan’s electoral process in the wake of a vote on Thursday and urged a probe into reported irregularities.

The main battle was between former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s party and candidates backed by ex-prime minister Imran Khan. Both declared victory separately.

Elections were held for 265 seats in the national assembly and a political party needs 133 seats for a simple majority.

The US and the EU both mentioned allegations of interference, including arrests of activists, and added that claims of irregularities, interference and fraud should be fully investigated.

Khan is in jail and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has been barred from the polls. Independents, most of them backed by Khan, had won the most seats – 98 of the 245 counted by 1830 GMT – while Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party had won 69 seats.

It is widely known that the country’s powerful military is behind a crackdown to hound his party out of existence, while analysts and opponents say Sharif is being backed by the generals.

The EU statement noted a “lack of a level playing field”, attributing that to “the inability of some political actors to contest the elections” and to restrictions to freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and internet access.

The US State Department said there were “undue restrictions” on freedoms of expressions and assembly while noting violence and attacks on media workers.

Some US lawmakers such as Democratic US Representatives Ro Khanna and Ilhan Omar also expressed concerns, with Khanna saying “the military is interfering and rigging the result.”

Both Khanna and Omar urged the State Department not to recognize a winner until investigations are conducted into allegations of misconduct.

Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center think tank in Washington, said both EU and US State Department statements were “relatively mild … considering the great scale of the rigging that went down.”

Earlier this week, the UN human rights office denounced violence against political parties and candidates. It voiced concern over the “pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters” of Khan’s party.

The EU, the US and Britain said they would work with the next government and did not congratulate any candidate or party.

British foreign minister David Cameron’s statement noted “serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections.”

Multiple frivolous legal cases have been brought against Khan, which disqualified him as a candidate and sentenced him to long prison terms. He denies wrongdoing and says the military is manipulating the judicial process against him.

Khan was ousted in 2022 after falling out with the country’s powerful military, which denies meddling in politics. Ironically, it was his party which won the last national election in 2018 with the help of the Pakistani military, when the two sides were working together.

Source: Gulf Today

Pakistan’s election neither free nor fair: Reports

By
Taha Siddiqui
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0

Internet and mobile services was suspended in Pakistan as voters headed to the polls today. Following the internet blackout in Pakistan, Amnesty International’s interim deputy director for South Asia said the decision on election day was “a blunt attack on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly”.

“It is reckless to impede access to information as people head out to polling stations on the heels of devastating bomb blasts and what has been an intense crackdown on the opposition in the lead-up to the elections in the country,” Livia Saccardi, the Amnesty representative said.

Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar had said late last night that he had “no intention” of shutting down internet services.

But this morning his government did exactly that, cutting mobile phone services across the country, citing “recent incidents of terrorism in the country”.

However, netizens were quick to point out that the terror incidents were happening in remote parts of the country, and not in the urban cities, where the internet and mobile services were also shut down.

PAKISTAN’S ELECTION: A farce and a tragedy

As per Time magazine, years from now, Pakistan’s 2024 election will be looked back on as a grim reminder that history can be both tragedy and farce at the same time.

“The country is experiencing one of its darkest periods in decades. There’s the resurgent terrorism, severe economic stress, worsening border tensions with Iran and Afghanistan, increasingly destructive climate change effects as seen during thee catastrophic floods of 2022, and, not surprisingly, record levels of public skepticism about the government’s capacity to fix all these problems,” writes Michael Kugelman, a well known Pakistani commentator for the Time Magazine. “There’s never been a more critical moment for a credible election. And yet, it will likely be more farcical than free and fair,” he adds.

These are Pakistan’s 12th general elections — the country’s latest attempt to deepen democratic roots. The powerful military establishment has ruled directly for more than three decades of the country’s journey as an independent nation since 1947.

It has influenced and intervened in politics even when not directly in power — a fact acknowledged by former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa in November 2022.

Those allegations against the military’s involvement in politics have been amplified in recent weeks, amid a crackdown on Imran Khan and his party.

Earlier, the UN Organization of Human Rights High Commissioner (OHCHR) Volker Türk had also urged authorities in Pakistan to ensure that parliamentary elections this week were free and fair, his office, OHCHR, said this Tuesday, an appeal that may have come too late.

The UN OHCHR Spokesperson Liz Throssell said there have been no less than 24 reported instances in which armed groups have staged attacks against members of political parties.

TARGETING PTI, NO LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR IMRAN KHAN

The UN office also voiced concern over the pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) party, which is headed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Multiple legal cases have been brought against Mr. Khan, which disqualified him as a candidate and sentenced him to long prison terms.

“We expect the higher courts will carefully review these conclusions in line with applicable due process and fair trial rights and Pakistan’s wider international human rights obligations; all eligible parties must be able to compete fairly,” Ms. Throssell said.

Khan, who captained Pakistan to cricket World Cup glory in 1992 and entered politics four years later, rose to power on a ticket of anti-corruption.

His party won elections in 2018, which many analysts say came with the approval of the country’s powerful military, a force that has dominated politics since Pakistan’s 1947 independence either through direct rule or behind the scenes.

A DULL ELECTION CAMPAIGN OWING TO PRE POLL RIGGING

In place of the usual campaigning fanfare that accompanies an election cycle, CNN reported that there was a sense of desolation among many of the country’s 230 million population, nearly 40% of whom are living in poverty, according to the World Bank.

Many young voters – the median age in Pakistan is just 22.7 – say they feel unseen and unheard, unable to pick the leader they want to guide the country for the next five years.

“Everyone can see where the preference lies. I wanted to give my first vote to Imran Khan but unfortunately, I don’t think that can happen now,” said Rabiya Arooj, a 22-year-old first-time voter from the capital, Islamabad told CNN.

“Our institutions are not working, the people responsible are not working for us, there is no freedom of speech. We are very distressed.”

Baloch Liberation Army says it has taken over Mach city and nearby areas under its control. Pak Army refutes the claim.

By
Taha Siddiqui
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QUETTA: About 20 hours after launching a massive military operation, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) said it was in “control” of Mach city and adjoining areas of Bolan district in Pakistan-occupied Balochistan after killing at least 55 Pakistani soldiers.

“As part of operation Dara-e-Bolan, the Baloch freedom fighters have a strong control over Mach city and adjoining highways since last 20 hours,” BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

He said BLA fighters have established strong positions across Mach city.

Earlier in the day, he said the freedom fighters of the outfit were controlling all entry and exit routes of Mach and have planted landmines on all routes, depriving any reinforcement for the Pakistani forces.

The latest update from BLA stated that the Mach city remained under control of Baloch Liberation Army for more than 24 hours now, where as Pakistani military has been cornered into a small area of FC headquarters.

The BLA spokesperson said that the Pakistani military is making false claims that it has repulsed BLA attack and Mach has been cleared. In reality, the Baloch freedom fighters are patrolling the streets of Mach city with full public support. The BLA invited international media, including the Pakistani media, to visit Mach city to see the facts themselves, guaranteeing full protection to any media outlet that plans to visit Mach city.

BLA launched the Operation at around 9 PM (Pakistan time) on 29th January, with the freedom fighters targeting the Army Base Camp, the main police station, the headquarters of paramilitary Frontier Corps and the Railway Station and some other key locations of Mach city in a coordinated manner.

“BLA’s Special Tactical Operations Squad has taken control of all entry and exit routes in the area. The STOS has installed explosive mines on these routes, depriving the enemy forces any reinforcement,” the spokesman said last afternoon.

“We openly challenge Pakistani military, the killer of innocents, to come and face Baloch freedom fighters who are freely roaming the streets of Mach city,” the spokesman further said.

On the other hand, Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai claimed that the separatists had been repelled after firing rockets from three directions, while the Pakistan Army media wing ISPR also refuted the claims made by BLA. South Asia Press could not verify any of the claims.

Pakistani forces were in pursuit of the separatists “on the retreat and search operation was underway” to locate the hidden separatists – according to Mr. Achakzai. He further revealed that the Baloch separatists attempted to attack from three directions in the mountains.

Earlier, Balochistan’s caretaker Information Minister also took to Twitter to address the situation, stating that reports indicated rockets had been fired in the Machh hill area. However, he assured the public that no damage had been reported thus far, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies were on high alert to address the situation and maintain security in the region.

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