Saturday 28 September 2013
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Thursday 29 August 2013
Tuesday 27 August 2013
Tuesday 20 August 2013
Election campaign ends with PTI ahead of PML N in NA-48
ISLAMABAD: Election campaign ends in the capital for by-polls to be held on August 22 for the seat of NA 48 and main contest is expected between Asad Umer candidate of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf and Ashraf Gujar of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz.
According to details, National Assembly seat 48 was vacated by stalwart of PTI Makhdoom Javeed Hashmi who won with big margin of over 20,000 votes and Anjum Aqeel Khan of PML N was on the second spot and Mian Aslam of Jamate Islami was on the third place. Latter, Javed Hashmi retained his hometown constituency in Multan.
Although previously Federal Capital remained the stronghold of PML N but political circumstances have been changed and PTI has emerged as the most popular political party atleast in the NA 48 in last general elections. PTI has awarded party ticket to Asad Umer to contest, it was evident in the beginning of the election campaign that local leaders of PTI were not pleased on Awarding party ticket to Asad Umer but PTI's campaign got momentum when Imran Khan lead a public rally in the capital and yesterday he addressed a mass gathering at G-9 markaz before the dead line for election campaign. But generally the political pandits place Asad Umar in advantageous position because of the door-to-door campaign he was running for the past well over a month. The PTI is mainly banking on the urban voters, which had helped Hashmi won the seat with huge margin in general elections. PTI also held meetings with JI to get support in the elections as Mian Aslam of Jamate Islami has withdrawn his nomination papers, both the parties are coalition partners in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and it is likely that JI would support Asad Umer in by-polls.PML N has ignored Anjum Aqeel Khjan who was contesting in last general elections held in May and has awarded party ticket to Ch Ashraf Gujjar who would be contesting in by-polls. Although PML N is in power both in Punjab and at Centre, which would definitely influence voters for obvious reasons but N league has to do a lot to gain this seat back. Unlike PTI, PML N took a long time to decide its candidate for by-polls as Anjum Aqeel Khan, Hanif Abbasi and some others were also hoping to get a nod but Ch Ashraf Gujjar received the green signal at the end; which resulted less time for the election campaign. Ashraf Gujjar could not fully mobilise his voters in the constituency, particularly in the rural areas. To boost up the election campaign Hamza Shehbaz Sharif and NA-49 MNA Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhryalso addressed a public rally in the capital on Tuesday. It was also learnt that Anjum Aqeel Khan was not very pleased with the decision of awarding party ticket to Ashraf Gujjar, along with him some other local leaders of the party were not warmheartedly supporting Gujjar as they believed that their sacrifices for the party have been ignored and an outsider was given the ticket. Although on the direction of party high command Anjum Aqeel Khan was supporting Gujjar, yet majority of his supporters are not going to vote for PML-N candidate and would either stay away from the electoral process or vote for some other candidate.
Pakistan People’s Party has maintained its candidate Faisal Sakhi Butt but it is unlikely that he would mark a very significant impression on the elections. Dozen of independent candidates also would be contesting the by-polls in NA-48. Overall Twenty-two candidates are contesting for the seat vacated by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.
Wednesday 24 July 2013
Tuesday 25 June 2013
Musharraf to be tried for treason: Nawaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to initiate a
high treason case against former military dictator Pervez Musharraf for
subverting the constitution of Pakistan; it was announced by Prime Minister
Nawaz Sharif in the National Assembly on Monday.
Nawaz Sharif said that the former president had committed
treason by abrogating the Constitution and he should be tried under the law. He
said Musharraf would be tried for imposing a state of emergency in the country
in 2007 while also suspending the Constitution.
It is pertinent to mention here that in Pakistan maximum penalty for treason is death. The government “firmly subscribes to the view that the holding in abeyance of the constitution on 3rd November 2007, constituted an act of high treason,” Sharif said in parliament, reading from a statement simultaneously presented to the Supreme Court. “Musharraf will have to answer for his guilt before the court,” he said.
It is pertinent to mention here that in Pakistan maximum penalty for treason is death. The government “firmly subscribes to the view that the holding in abeyance of the constitution on 3rd November 2007, constituted an act of high treason,” Sharif said in parliament, reading from a statement simultaneously presented to the Supreme Court. “Musharraf will have to answer for his guilt before the court,” he said.
Opposition leaders from Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) extended their support to the prime minister.
Leader of Opposition Khurshid Shah welcomed the prime minister's speech and
said that the pictures of all past dictators should be removed from the
parliament premises. Shah Mehmood Qurehi said tht PTI believe on the supremacy
of law and it would support any law which would strengthen democratic process
in the country.
MEhmood Achakzai head of PakhtunKhawa Milli Party said that
all the institutions must work within their limits and supremacy of law should
be top priority of all. Leader of the Awami National Party Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed
said that people have given heavy mandate to Muslim League Nawaz, now it should
be prime responsibility of Nawaz Sharif to redress the grievances of the
masses, he said that Prime Minister should refrain from indulging into the
matters which could create confrontation among the institution and put focus to
solve the problems of the people for which people have given votes to PMLN.
Tuesday 18 June 2013
From convicted culprit to Senator, where is the supremacy of law?
Unlike the past, it is being considered that today judiciary
in Pakistan is independent and very powerful institution. Judiciary has taken
many historic Judgments like convicting former Prime Ministers and charging
Former Dictator. After all that hard accountability still there are few
examples of corruption and wrong doings that a common man would bite his finger
that how it happened.
It would be surprising for the readers that a person was
convicted 14 years in prison on corruption cases, but he has become senator in
the Senate of Pakistan. In 2000, Former Federal Communication Ministers Azam
Khan Hoti was convicted by an accountability court Attock on charges of
accumulating assets disproportionate to his known sources of income and
sentenced him to 10-year rigorous imprisonment. He was also fined Rs 15 million,
failing which he would have to undergo further 2 years in prison. Judge
Chaudhry Mazhar Minhas ordered the confiscation of Azam Hoti’s property in
Lahore which includes a commercial plot in Chuburji, 6 shops in Lehri, a shop
in Model Town, his share in a flat in Model Town, two cars and Rs 7.7 million
invested in Super Engineers (Pvt) Limited. The former minister was also
disqualified from holding public office or applying for any financial loan and
advances from any financial institutions sponsored by the government. Azam Hoti
was also tried by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for two cases of
corruption and misuse of authority. The accountability court has already
sentenced him to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment in cases of corruption and
corrupt practices in the Motorway reference and for awarding contracts for the
installation of emergency telephone systems without fulfilling the normal
procedures.
This scribe came to know about all this when wife of Azam
Hoti, Shamim Kiyani filed a writ petition in the Islamabad high Court against
Azam Hoti. She submitted file copy of the court vide order dated
27-9-2010, in which accountability bench of Lahore High Court dismissed
the appeal of the Azam Hoti. She said that no court of country has
suspended the order of the High Court of Lahore and he is convicted of the law
and fugitive from law. She said more thee NAB KPK has the attested copy for the
court action but they also allowed a convict and fugitive to set in the senate
of Pakistan.
She nominated Election Commission of Pakistan, Senate of
Pakistan and Chairman National Accountability Bureau Islamabad. In reply to
Court ECP made it clear that ECP was not aware that Azam Hoti was convicted by
NAB. Court also has directed to NAB to appear before the court with the relevant
record. It is pertinent to mention here that former Chief Minister of KPK Amir
Haider Hoti is son of Azam Hoti and he played a vital role to make his father
Senator from Awami National Party. While talking to this scribe Shamim Kiyani
appealed to the Chief Justice of Supreme Court Pakistan to take sou motu action
on this serious matter.
Monday 17 June 2013
Monday 10 June 2013
Friday 31 May 2013
Characteristics of Foreign Policy in viewpoints of Imam Khomeini
Characteristics of Foreign Policy in viewpoints of
Imam Khomeini
The victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran under the leadership of
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini led to a
modern transformation in the context of Iranian political issues including both
the domestic and foreign policies. This writing piece would intend intend to
examine some important and influential instances of his ideas and viewpoints in
the realm of foreign policy on different conditions and circumstances.
Imam Khomein defines politics as “Politics should guide the society,
find its way, consider all the interests of society, and guide them to that
which is for their welfare.”
“Politics means management of the
country based on the religious and spiritual welfare of the people.”
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Elements of foreign policy from Imam Khomeini's viewpoint generally, the
following elements in the context of foreign policy can be inferred from his
speeches and opinions: Non-reliance on
the global powers, which has been manifested in the Imam’s policy of “Neither
East nor West”; Preservation of the
existence and territorial integrity of the country, and observing the long-term
interests of the system; Invitation
toward the monotheistic values and fundamentals of Islam; Defense of the integrity and reputation of
Islam in the international gatherings; Expression of sympathy to the
downtrodden of the world and inviting them to unite with one another; Invitation toward the unity of Muslims; Strategic campaign against the Quds-occupying
regime; Harmonious coexistence
and forging of
equitable and friendly relations with countries of the
world and negation of isolationism; and
Introduction of Islam as a comprehensive, perfect and practical
Religion. HE stressed on complete elimination of imperialism; and framing of
the country’s foreign policy on the basis of Islamic criteria, fraternal
commitment to all Muslims of the world and unflinching support for them have
all been emphasized.
Imam Khomeini used to
emphasize peaceful and
friendly relationship,
considering it as part of the necessities of social and political life. Having
constant relationship was considered preferential than its abandonment on the
condition that this relationship is based upon mutual respect, and the
interests and welfare of both parties, not only one, are taken into account. He
said once: We want to befriend all nations of the world. On account of the
primordial nature, we want to befriend all states of the world and to have good
relationship with them;
with mutual respect,
we want to
have good relationship with all. In
the view of Imm Khomein ,
relations that cause dominance are rejected. Hence, concerning this, he says:
“If trade relations with the non-Muslims cause fear on the domain of Islam,
then abandonment of these relations is obligatory for all Muslims.”
Admonition to the governments and nations to sympathy and unity As what
we know, in the international scene and system the decision- making and
implementing units are the states. If all the downtrodden of the world are
supposed to have unity, it can be attained faster and easier through the
governments. Because of this, it is necessary for the states to sympathize and
have single voice with their own nations in order to realize unity.
If there were Islamic unity of expression, if the Muslim governments and
nations were united, over one and half billion Muslims to be under the sway
of the
superpowers would have no
more meaning. If
this power is transformed into a great divine power, no
power will be able to overcome it. The next step or stage is the realization of
unity among the downtrodden states. Through this unity as well as their efforts
they could eliminate the oppression of the arrogant in the world; in the
international gatherings and scenes, they could render helpless the oppressors
by adopting a single stance and make themselves a great power.
Concerning this, the Imam Khomeini puts
more emphasis on the unity among Muslim states, saying: The Muslim states
should be like a single state, like a single society, having one flag, one book
(the Quran), and one Prophet. They are supposed to be always united and have
love with one another in all aspects. If these aspirations come true that the
Muslim states are united in all aspects, there is hope that they could overcome
their problems, and a greater power would confront other powers.
Negation of nationalism and ethnocentrism The most
important factor that
prevents the Muslims
and the downtrodden of the world
from attaining unity of action is nationalism and ethnocentrism, which Imam
Khomeini negates and regards as elements for the discordance and hostility of
the Muslims. As what we know, now the Islamic world has suffered enormous
losses due to these imperialist weapons. So much amount of blood has been
spilled and facilities wasted for this. Having imperialist roots, the sectarian
conflicts , which unfortunately have continued and amounted to fratricide,
genocide, instability, and insecurity in the region. In this manner, the
imperialists let the Muslims be preoccupied with these affairs; they could
easily plunder their
resources and make
their weapons manufacturing companies
more flourishing. An instance of which is the war between the Arabs and
Persians initiated by Saddam, a war that has made them instruments of discord
and confusion and sacrificed the youth of both countries who could play a key
role in the reconstruction of their countries and could liberate their
countries from the state of dependency on the dominant powers. Other examples
are in Algeria, Sudan, Yemen, the sectarian wars in Lebanon, etc.
Among the problems that the plotters have designed (as the imperialist
agents do in promoting it) for the creation of discord among the Muslims
are ethnocentrism and
nationalism. Nationalism against
other Muslim nations is an issue
that Islam, the Quran and orders of the Holy Prophet oppose. The
same nationalism that
amounts to the
animosity among Muslims and rift
in the ranks of the believers is contrary to Islam and the interests of
Muslims, and is among the tricks of the foreigners who suffer from Islam and
its spread. From among the vivid experiences of this period in which
nationalism led to the weakening and defeat of Muslims, one can mention the
Arab nationalism that Egypt promoted. Through such a propaganda and irrational
feelings it was not able to win the support of many non-Arab countries during
the Arab-Israeli war. This affair has led to their defeat and the Israel’s
acquisition of more power.
“Time and again, I state that this nationalism is the root of the
Muslims’ misery. That which has made the Muslim states wretched and presently
makes them drift away from the auspices of the Holy Quran is the problem of
racism.This race is Turkish; this race is Iranian; this race is Arab. The
problem of racism is reactionary.
Imam Khomeini had always put at the top of his agenda both the interest
and honor of Islam and the nation. All the elements of foreign policy, in the view of the Imam, are cases
that are in pursuit of ensuring the national interests, honor and pride of
Iran, and the interest of Islam. One of the greatest teachings of the founder
of the Islamic Republic to the Iranian nation and the global Muslims is the
lesson of honor-seeking.Taking into account
the honor in
foreign policy means
that in the international decision-making, interest
should be assessed in such a way that the honor of the country and Islam is not
slighted and such decisions would not bring abjectness to the Muslims.
Thus, taking into account the honor of the country and Muslims,
observance of the principle, “Neither East nor West”, and maintenance of the
country’s independencenone of which should give way to the negligence of the
country’s interests. Peculiar discretion should be applied and detailed
strategic programs implemented. By considering the most vital interests, all
the objectives must be ensured.
Hajj as an important
instrument in achieving
the foreign policy objectives of Islam. During the year
1362 AH hajj pilgrimage Imm Khomein revived the Sunnah of the Prophet and
utilized this grand Islamic gathering as the most important instrument of
foreign policy, or we better say, Islamic foreign policy. During the last few
years of his blessed life, the Imm conveyed in his various messages sent to the
annual hajj gathering all the aspects that can be discussed in this congress
and be utilized, or we better say, he conveyed in those messages the charter of
the Islamic government.
Both in theory and practice, the Imam exerted his utmost effort to
remove the ambiguities and flaws that are depicted in the realm of foreign
policy of the Islamic country and forging of relationship with other countries.
He tried to illustrate an image of Islam
in which Islam was introduced as the most complete religion, most precise code
of living, most advanced culture and civilization, and as the means for the
salvation and happiness of humankind.
Thursday 30 May 2013
Ayat Ulla Ruhollah Mostafavi Khomeini A great revolutionist
Allama
Iqbal (R.A.) says,
‘If
Tehran becomes the Geneva
May
be fortune of the world will change’
Today’s
Iran
34
years ago when a great Islamic Revolution took place in Iran Iran Tehran Iran
Two
and a half thousand years ago, Korosh Azam after changing Iranian nation into a
united state laid the foundation of dominion. At that time this dominion was
consisted of today’s Pakistan ,
Middle East and various other areas of Asia .
Alexander the Great ended this dominion after two hundred years and Greek’s
government was established. Two centuries (BC), Ashkani’s captured it and Parsi
religion was implemented. At last after three hundred years this dominion was
also eradicated by Sasaanians. This was the era of last prophet Hazrat Muhammad
(PBUH). Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) was not only preaching Islam in Arab areas but
also to the kings of neighboring states including Qaiser-e-Rome and Iranian
king. In the reign of Khulafa-e-Rashideen, after the end of Sasaani rule, Islam
spread all over the world. Iranian served Islam in a great manner and took
Islam to its peak. In seventh century Hijri, Mughals attacked and destroyed the
Islamic Kingdom and a lot of Iranian cities were ruined. At last in the Safwi
rule of Shah Abbas Awwal, education and skills were developed and new cities
were settled, new roads and buildings were constructed. After Safwi’s rule the
decline of Iran
A
bright star emerged from the darks of western cultural invasion, innovation and
Pehlvi tyranny, which dazzled the eyes of world. This star of brightness was
the personality of revolutionary leader Honorable Imam Ayat Ullah Rooh-Ullah Almoosawi
Alkhomeini (R.A).
He
was born in 1902 in a town of Khomein Qum under the patronage of Sheikh Abdul Karim Hairi (R.A).
He achieved the knowledge of philosophy and Sufism under the guidance of Ayat
Ullah Mirza Muhammad Ali Shahabadi (R.A). He spend a very simple life in eating,
clothing, affairs, social etc. He used to spend most of his time in praying.
Three
decades ago when Pehlvi oppression and despotism crossed its limit, Hazrat Imam
Khomeini (R.A) raised the flag of Jihad against it. He has to spend a long time
in exile and suffer from a lot of difficulties. But at last, the Iranian nation
succeeded under his leadership and guidance and they saw the sun of Islamic
revolution rising. Imam Khomeini (R.A) says
about the Islamic revolution of Iran
that “The Islamic revolution of Iran
The
dream of second establishment of Islam seen by Allama Iqbal was interpreted by
the great revolutionary leader Imam Khomeini (R.A). He died at June 03, 1989
but during his life he played a historic and effective role in this world. In
the light of way designed by him, the Muslim nation can gather the whole world
at the platform of peace and may unite to safeguarding for “Baitullah”. As Allama Iqbal (R.A.) says,
“The
Muslim should unite for the safe guard of HARAM,
Right
from the shores of River Nile to the soil of Kashghar,
Revolutions took place in the last century in France,
China, Africa, Europe, Arab, India, Afghanistan etc. but none of them was occurred 100 % according to the
Islamic Ideology, whereas the revolution under the leadership of Imam Rooh
Ullah Almoosawi Alkhomeini (R.A) was 100% on the basis of Islamic Ideology.
The
world is presently witnessing revolutionary changes in some countries of Middle East , which are the result of economic, social and
political injustices meted to the people of these states by its rulers in
connivance with the foreign tyrant forces.
Allama
Iqbal (R.A.) says,
“A
life without revolution is just like a death,
The
life of the spirit of nations is to struggle for the revolution”
Three
decades ago, the Islamic Republic of Iran has undergone a revolution which was
truly Islamic in essence and spirit and has changed altogether not only the
course of history of the Iranian nation but also fixed new dimensions and
horizons for the bright future of the vibrant and progressive Iranians. Since
the revolution has its light from the eternal moral and ethical values of Islam
upon which the economic, social and political system has been established, its
impact has not limited to the geographical boundaries of Iran but its spirit
and essence has also transgressed into the adjourning territories as well. The
people of the Arab world are taking strength and energy from the great Islamic
Revolution of Iran
It
is high time that the western capitalist powers and the eastern materialist
& neo-colonial rulers must understand that the system of the west which is
based on materialism will not sustain for a longer period and it will crumble
down at last but the system which is based on universal moral values and
ethical virtues will last for ever. The Iranian revolution has brought about change
in the moral and ethical values of Great sons of Iran
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The
Islamic world’s special attention is concentrated on the present leadership of
Islamic Republic
of Iran
As
a result of Imam Khomeini’s teachings and philosophy, Dr. Mahmood Ahmadi Najjad
emerged as an examplary personality. He has conveyed a great message of unity
to the Muslim nation.
Upon
following the path showed by Imam Khomeini (R.A), Islamic Republic
of Iran has got access to atomic
energy, which is very essential for Iran Iran has repeatedly assured the world that its
atomic program is only meant for peaceful purposes and Iran Republic of Iran
Presently,
the invalid and imperial powers are trying their best to nullify the effects
and results of Islamic revolution, but they are still not being able to achieve
this objective. Most of the cultural and moral values
of people of Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan
Wednesday 24 April 2013
Neck and neck contest as ‘heavyweights’ enter in NA 56 arena
Majority of people in Pakistan
Daily the Patriot has
conducted a series of surveys in various political constituencies regarding
upcoming elections. In this report political scenario of National Assembly seat
56 Rawalpindi
Main areas included in Na-56
are Shamsabad, Rehmanabad, Sadiqabad, Chandni Chowk and Commercial Market, and Saidpur Road etc
Main contest is expected
between Chief of
Scribe found banners,
stickers and portraits of leaders belonging to different political parties.
Hanif Abbasi was successful to convince Maryam Nawaz to initiate PML N's
political campaign in his constituency as she addressed a corner meeting in
Sadiqabad couple of days before. PTI Chief Imran Khan inaugurated on Monday
PTI's election office which was situated on Murree Road, right in front of the
election office of PML N, it was a scene not to miss as passionate workers of
both the political parties were enchanting slogans in favor of their parties. A
huge public gathering in expected at the end of first week of May in Liaqat
Bagh, where Imran Khan and
Sheikh Rasheed would address to the residents of Rawalpindi
Saeed Ali a resident of NA 56
said that he got his vote registered for the first time and would cast vote to
PTI, " It is the fear of PTI that other political parties are running from
pillar to post to win seats, which were convinced couple of years before to win
comfortably" he added. He said that most of the development work initiated
in the last year of the government become possibility because of pressure of
PTI. He said that his friends and other residents of his area would go for
change this time and PTI would be the solution of all the ills of the country.
A middle aged resident of NA
56 said that Rawalpindi belongs to Muslim League
Nawaz and he was much satisfied with the development works of Punjab
government, “I would cast my vote for PML N because Hanif Abbasi built two
flyovers and a cardiology hospital in my constituency". He maintained.
Mansoor Hussain a student of
a University living in Sadiqabad said that PML N was lacking vision and could
not set the priority to solve issued faced by the masses." I am a student
and electricity breakdown affects my routine and ultimately studies but I am
not aware with any project PML N initiated in the last five years, while after
18th amendment provinces could initiate the projects to fulfill energy
demand". He said that PTI should be given a chance to run the government
as all other political parties had ruled for enough times and had failed to
bring stability and prosperity in the country. He said his friends and family
members would vote for PTI.
A dejected supporter of PML N
said that he was a passionate supporter of PML N but was disappointed when
Hanif Abbasi was given ticket to contest elections again, despite his name was
in the list of ephedrine scam. He said that either he would not cast his vote
or he would compare both the candidates and surely Imran Khan for his welfare
works would deserve his vote.
Ilyas Ahmed, a vendor said
that no matter what he would vote for PML N, “I am a big fan of PML N, although
I like Imran Khan but my vote would be for Nawaz Sharif".
A shopkeeper Ali Khan said
that poor sewage system and shortage of water are major issue of the area but
last government could not solve these issues. He said that crime rate in NA 56
is much higher as compare to other parts of the city. He said that May 11, date
of elections would carry fragnance of change in its air and PTI would win from
NA-56 with huge lead.
Monday 15 April 2013
( GOVERNMENT OF THE YOUTH, BY THE YOUTH FOR YOUTHFUL PAKISTAN ) 35 % tickets given to youth, 80 % to contest elections first time: Imran Khan
He was addressing a news conference here on Monday he said, “We
have fulfilled the pledges to give party tickets to youth and this is the
beginning of a revolution in the country.
People used to criticize me when electables were joining PTI but I made
it clear that ticket would be given after scrutiny and we have done that” he
added.
Khan further said, “We have given 80 percent tickets to new
faces for the upcoming general election after the recommendation of district
organizations, it is a massive change in the politics of the country as our
opponent political parties always give tickets to the opportunists and elites
of the country”.
He said that giving tickets to the youth is a great milestone;
he said that PTI has given an opportunity to the people to decide for the
betterment of the country by casting votes to these youth candidates of PTI
otherwise keep facing the corrupt politicians. He said that other political
parties give tickets to the rich politicians and charge heavy amount under the
name of party funds and after winning the elections these politicians make
money manifolds. He said that most of young people would need financial
assistance to contest the election because most of them are not from rich
families. He said people believing in PTI, especially those living abroad
should contribute to raise political funds for young candidates.
Answering a question he said that he knew how to elect a
team and a young team won the cricket world cup for Pakistan , similarly a young team of
PTI would sweep the general elections. He said that unlike other political
parties, PTI would not award reserve seats tickets to the relatives of any
politician.
Friday 12 April 2013
“East-West Strings: Sufi Musical Fusion Evening” Where strings of East meet West to create Rhythm to remember
The Diplomatic Insight, University of Gujrat and Inter
University Consortium for the Promotion of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts
arranged an exclusive concert “East-West Strings: Sufi Musical Fusion Evening”
featuring Katalin Burns from Hungary and Qurban Niyazi from Pakistan at
National Library Auditorium.
Both artists did a duet fusion Sufi music to promote the
cultural diplomacy between East and West to bring the nations closer together.
The Sufi musical evening was arranged to make strings of East (Pakistan ) will meet West (Hungary ) to make the rhythm to
remember.
Prior to their performance, young students from
Both the artist enthralled the audience with their upbeat
performance.
Katalin Burns is an artist with a mission to build bridges
between cultures through (mostly vocal) music. She has been experimenting and
studying various vocal techniques from all over the world, but of course, she
has been most faithful to her own Hungarian roots. She is also a flutist and a
traditional storyteller in the Hungarian vocal musical form.
On the other hand Qurban Niyazi is a prominent Pakistani
folk singer with a vision to promote local Sufi Music to the world. Keeping the
beautiful musical legacy of his late brother Tufail Niazi, who has mesmerized
the people around the globe for years till his sad demise. Qurban has been
associated with Radio and Television for more than 45 years. He won many
prestigious awards from Private Government Institutes and performed not only
nationally but also thrilled the audience internationally.
The concert had a clear message that Pakistan is a secure land and there
is nothing to be terrorized about what is being portrayed by International
media. This also reflected that Pakistan
and people of Pakistan
are meant to develop deep rooted linkages with outside world keeping their
traditions
and heritage alive.Music can bridge the gap between East and West: Katalin Burns
ISLAMABAD: Katalin Burns a famous singer from Hungary is in
the town to spread the message of peace and love. She shared her experience of
visiting Pakistan in an exclusive interview with Daily Patriot; she
talked about the rich music culture and hospitality of the people of Pakistan. She
said that Hungarian Embassy arranged her visit. She is visiting Pakistan for
the second time and she would perform in various cities of the country. She said that before traveling to Pakistan
people warned her about the lawlessness and insecurity in Pakistan but after
coming to Pakistan she found people are living happy lives, singing songs,
roaming here and there. She said that international media should also promote
the soft and real image of Pakistan as people are very loving, open hearted and
great appreciator of music.
Katalin Burns said that music has no boundaries and limits,
it can spread peace everywhere. She said that she is highly impressed with the
legend singers Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Abida Perveen. She said that although
she could not understand the lyrics of their songs but power of their voices
and charm of the tunes come out with combination of musical instruments kept
listeners in grip. She said that she was learning Urdu but she would be
performing in Hungarian language with local music bands in Islamabad,
Faisalabad and Lahore.
She said that last time she performed in Islamabad couple of
years back but she could not forget the love and appreciation given by the audience,
which motivated her to visit and perform again in front of music lovers of
Pakistan. She said that she had performed in various other countries with
famous musical bands. When asked for her views on ' music is food of souls' she
said yes as she believes music have the power to give inspiration and motivation
and to unite the people.
She said that she is the ambassador of the peace and she is
here in Pakistan to strength the relationship of Hungary and Pakistan. In her
message to the people of Pakistan she said that they are lovely people and have
great sense of music and she wants everyone to spread the message of peace
through music and songs.
Tuesday 9 April 2013
Continuing legacy of Jinnah, Imran promises to make Pakistan ‘Islamic Welfare State’
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) announced its
manifesto Tuesday which ensuring justice
and equal opportunities to all segments of the society, making Pakistan an
Islamic welfare state as envisioned by Quaid and Iqbal, uprooting of all sorts
of injustices and exploitations, introducing an sovereign foreign policy
PTI President Makhdoom Javed Hashmi, Vice Chairman Shah
Mahmood Qureshi, Asad Umer, Shafquat Mahmood, Jahangir Tareen, Dr Shireen
Mazari, Imran Ismail, Naeem-ul-Haq, Dr Israr Shah, Faisal Javed Khan and others
were also present on the occasion.
Imran Khan said that PTI’s manifesto gives the solutions of
all the issues like how to deal with them but other political parties only
remain with the parts ‘ what to do’. He said that other political parties
remained in power several times but did nothing for the people but PTI would
fulfill all the promises made in the manifesto.
Imran Khan said “No other party has made any such policies;
if you want you can compare our manifesto to theirs”. He announced that local government elections
schedule within the first 100 days of coming into power.
Imran Khan said that corruption has become the major issue
of the country and the PTI would wipe out this curse within 90 days after
coming into power, adding that the PTI’s manifesto was not base on slogan but
it was formulated after case to case study, so there should be no ambiguity
about its implementation. He added that power outages would be brought to end
within two to three years.
He said that the defense spending would be rationalized and
the defense Budget would be debated in Parliament, with in-camera sessions
according to the sensitivity of the issue. He said that the PTI would eliminate
the railway ministry and the departments like Pakistan International Airlines
(PIA) would also be made autonomous. He said that the PTI would reduce the
number of ministries because other parties have used this tool as political
bribe, adding that his party would also depoliticize the bureaucracy and
police. Imran Khan said that the Pakistan Television (PTV) would also be made
an autonomous body during the tenure of PTI. "PTI also recognizes the
scourge of terrorism and its devastating effect on Pakistan in the form of
intolerance, fear and hate, hence, it stands committed to fought for the
betterment of Pakistan," he added.
Khan said that in order to make Pakistan a welfare state,
one system of education for all its citizens would be ensured besides equal
opportunity and healthcare and a social safety net for the unemployed. In
addition, primary healthcare for the poor and elderly will be free," he
added.
He said PTI has focused on policies for the Minorities,
Labour (including agricultural), Youth, Women, and Persons with Disabilities to
ensure no discrimination. PTI also recognizes the Overseas Pakistanis as a
valuable asset for the country and has outlined a policy for improving their
access to Pakistan and its development. He said "Economic policy will be
governed in a way to promote fast-paced industrial growth and ensure job
creation. It will ensure that minimum wage of labor is commensurate with
the inflation level in the country. To fast track development within the first
100 days, PTI's will take full advantage of the natural resource of the country
like copper and coal".
Imran Khan said that for the first time in history any
political party has formed a detailed policy on the basic issues being faced by
the country, adding that other political parties have no match with our policy.
He said that the PTI has fulfilled all its promises made with the public.
"For the first time in country's history, PTI hold fair intra party
elections. “PTI has not been doing politics for the sake of power whereas the
other parties were taking every step just to come in power again,” said PTI
Chairman.
Imran Khan said that the PTI was not depending upon
electables whereas the other major parties are dependent on electables who
always blackmail these parties by making forward blocks. He made it clear that
PTI have unveiled its manifesto after thorough study. “We have thoroughly
studied the topic of corruption after which we announced that after coming into
power PTI will wipe out the corruption within 90 days,” he said. Replying to a
question, Imran Khan said that PTI’s popularity graph has gone up after the
public gathering of March 23rd.
The manifesto also outlined that the budget of the defense
sector will be rationalized and promised to put an end to load shedding two to
three years after they come to power.
The party policy further avowed that railway ministry will
be abolished and Pakistan International Airline (PIA) will be removed from
defense ministry’s supervision and will become directly accountable to the
public. Prior to Imran Khan, Shireen Mazari also addressed the press conference
said that according to the party manifesto, justice will be made equal for all.
“There will be no difference between the rich and the poor,” said Mazari.
Thursday 28 February 2013
Youth to play vital role for PTI success in general polls: Syed Wajid Bukhari
ISLAMABAD: Youth are the soul of PTI and they would play a
significant role in the success of PTI to sweep in the upcoming general
elections, huge number of new voters would cast votes in next elections and
majority of them would like to vote for PTI.
This was stated by a prominent leader of Pakistan Tehreek e
Insaaf Syed Wajid Bukhari in an
exclusive interview to the Patriot, he said that although Punjab government
tried to give lollypop to the students in shape of laptops, scholarships, and
helmets etc but like people of all age groups youth of the country have gained political
maturity to elect the sincere leadership and they see a sincere leader in Imran
Khan.
Answering a question he said Shia killings continued since a
long time but law enforcement agencies have been failed to combat this ongoing
barbarism against innocent people. He said that all the political stakeholders
must condemn openly all the factors responsible for this inhumanity. He
appreciated the courage of Imran Khan Chief of Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf for
condemning Lashkare Jhangvi in a press conference, while bashing Punjab
government he said that banned outfits have been shown a soft corner by the
leaders of Punjab government.
Answering a question regarding intra party election at a
very crucial stage when all the other political parties are busy for election
campaigns, Syed Wajid Bukhari said that “Imran Khan wants to make PTI as a
democratic institution; Imran Khan believes that only transparent intra party
elections can make PTI a strong democratic institution and he is ready to pay
any price for that”. He said that it could be very easy for Imran Khan to allot
party tickets to the people of his choice but he believed that in this way there
would be no difference left between PTI and other political parties which most
of them have become inherited political parties.
Answering another question to control corruption in 90 days
which seems a hard task, he said that if the head of an institute is honest, it
could become almost impossible for the subordinates to do corrupt practices. He
said that accountably in every institution would start from up to downwards as
it is the matter of fact that only weak and less responsible people were made scapegoats
and big fishes remain uncaught.
Describing the preparation of next general elections and
alliances with other political parties he said that at the moment all the
efforts are being utilized to held transparent intra party elections and on 23rd
March almost 80,000 elected representatives of PTI along with other supporters
would be together at Minare Pakistan Lahore. He said that preparations are
underway but PTI would accelerate election campaign in the coming days. He said
that PTI Chief has made it clear that no alliance with the status quo political
parties which are opportunist and can be seen in almost every government. He
said that seat adjustment could be considered with the political parties having
almost same manifesto as PTI.
Wednesday 20 February 2013
Shia killings: Genocide not sectarian violence
Almost 90 innocent Shia Muslims were killed in a brutal
exploded attack when powerful bomb in a water tanker ripped through a packed
bazaar in Hazara town Quetta, in less then 40 days when another incident of the
same nature had taken lives of almost 100 innocent Hazara people. Hazara people
staged sit in and denied to bury their dead ones until their demands were not
listened. People from all walks of lives condemned attacks on innocent people,
Shia Muslims all over the country staged protests and sit-ins in solidarity
with Hazaras of Quetta.
This scribe learnt that while reporting and commenting on
this tragic incident few media reporters were frequently using the term '
sectarian violence'. This term is very frequently used in our society. I am not
comfortable with this term and in order to explain that ongoing Mass killings
of innocent people can be included in the category of 'genocide of shia Muslims'
and not in 'sectarian violence' let me present definition of sectarian violence
according to some research centers.
According to Stockholm International Peace Research
Institute, sectarian violence traditionally implies a symmetrical confrontation
between two or more non-state actors representing different population groups.
For any reader, anywhere in the world, sectarian violence may mean incidents
involving two or more sects of a religion violently confronting one another. In
Pakistan two main sects of Muslims are living, Shias and Sunnis. Majority is
dominated by Sunnis as Shias are slightly over one fifth of the total
population.
As any news appears that certain number of Shia Muslims were
gunned down or blown up in a suicide attack, in an act of “sectarian violence”,
it pops up to the minds that there must have been a similar attack by Shia
Muslims on the Sunni Muslims prior to this incident. But when one tries to
search in this regard mostly fails to find any incident.
How this could be termed as ' sectarian violence' when a
banned outfit accepts the killings, which consists of few individuals those hardly
represent any majority Sunni groups. By using term sectarian violence, we are
not doing justice with the Sunni Muslims as well, because it hints that they
are supporting killings of Shias which they are not, infect they participate in
the protests in huge numbers along with Shia Muslims.
Considering these facts question comes into mind, why are
those incidents not reported where the Sunni Muslims were the victims and the
Shia Muslims were the alleged perpetrators or they had accepted the blames. It
is hard to find any, just because there were none incidents of this kind. So,
why is all this massacre of Shia Muslims labeled as sectarian violence? As
a matter of fact, there is no sectarian violence going on in Pakistan. It has
never been the mainstream Sunni Muslims who turned against the Shia Muslims and
engaged in their killings. It is not sectarian violence that the Pakistanis are
experiencing. It is “gradual genocide” of Pakistani Shia Muslims being carried
out by a fraction of militants like Lashkar-e-Jhangvi who are quite
frequently disowned by majority of Sunni Muslims.
What is genocide? Genocide is "the deliberate and
systematic destruction, in whole or in part, of an ethnic, racial, religious,
or national group" therefore genocide if continued against shias as
hundreds of Shia professionals like teachers, professors, doctors, surgeons,
intellectuals, businessmen were killed in various target killing attacks across
the country from Peshawar to Karachi, just battle field changes from one city
to another. As part of the Shia genocide, at least 20,000 Shia Muslims
have been killed in Pakistan since 1986. For example, Two days before an eye
specialist Syed Ali Haider along with his 10 years old son was killed by
unknown terrorists, a silent war against shias continued in Pakistan since Zia
regime by militant banned outfits.
Pakistan has never before been in the need of harmony and
unity between the Shia and the Sunni as much as now. Shia clergymen and other
Shia leaders in Pakistan have so far urged their followers to exercise
restraint in order for preventing the real sectarian violence from happening.
Different organizations of Shia Muslims in Pakistan usually keep their
responses to only peaceful protests. This is also a fact that almost all the
Shia Muslims of Pakistan believe in unity, harmony and brotherhood with their
fellow Sunni Muslims. Sunnis also condemn the attacks on innocent Shias but
still some believe they need to echo their voice a bit more because united we
stand and divided we fall, and may we fall as a nation if tragic situation
continued. We all must discourage the term of “sectarian violence” because
instead of objectively describing a reality, the using this term may worsen the
situation as it suggests that both Shia and Sunni Muslims have a share in it
which obviously they do not. Saturday 19 January 2013
Hussaniat teaches to stand against injustice, oppression: Hamid Moosavi
These views were expressed by the head of Tehreek-e- Nifaaz
e Fiqah Jafaria Agha Syed Hamid Ali Shah Moosavi while talking to media persons on Saturday here
at Markazi Jamaia Murtaza G9/4, he was leading ‘Azadari Protest’ against the killing
of innocent Muslims including shia pilgrims and against demolishment of holy
shrines.
The TNFJ chief demanded from the government to take action
against the culprits of all incidents of terrorism including the assassins of member
of the Sindh Assembly in
He said that in the name of expansion of the holy cities of Mecca and Madina, rulers of Saudi Arabia have destroyed the
signs attributed to the holy family of Holy Prophet (PBUH), the pious wives and
his pious companions, while expansion could be carried out while keeping these
signs intact.
Talking about the Indian aggression on line of control he
said that at first India commit violations later started crying at the
international media to gain sympathies “this is the continuation of Bombay
drama to create hatred among the masses” he added.
He said that internal and external enemies are combined to
tear Pakistan ’s
solidarity apart and the patriotic forces should take care of survival of the
motherland instead of involving themselves in long marches and dharnas. He
expressed concern that despite imposition of Governor’s Rule in Balochistan the
situation has not improved there and incidents of terrorism were still going on.
Agha Moosavi said under a well-thought conspiracy, the
colonial powers are trying their utmost to prove Islam and its followers as
terrorists despite the fact that those who are crying hoarse of terrorism are
the ones who have patronised terrorists. Agha Moosavi said that the colonial
power is not only targeting Pakistan
but it is a conspiracy against Islam. “We cannot be scared of suicide attacks;
bomb blasts and similar evil tactics neither can deviate us from the real path.
We want to let everyone know that even if we are cut into pieces, those pieces
burnt to ash, then even this ash will spread through air and in every particle there
will be a voice of Labaik Ya Hussain (PBUH)”.
He expressed his grieves over the division of Muslims all
over the world, “ Muslims are brothers of each other and like single entity or
a body, if one part of the body is in pain the whole body gets affected”. Muslim
countries are being targeted and destroyed but Muslims are being further
divided, we must strength OIC and take firm stand against any aggression on any
Muslim country”, he added. He said that if one Muslim country is attacked other
remain silent spectators, colonial powers are busy to divide Muslims in Iraq,
Afghanistan, Syria, Bahrain, Tunis, Libya, Lebanon, Egypt and spreading hatred
among Muslims for each others.
The Quaid-i-MillatJafariya Agha Syed Hamid Ali Shah Moosavi
called upon the Azadaraan Imam AaliMuqaam to give priority to Azadari over all
other matters till 8thRabiulAwwal and avoid taking part in all types of
political activities because the Gham-e-Hussain is top of our all other grieves.
On this occasion TNFJ stages mourning protest where noha
khawani and matamdari held against the desecration of holy Islamic sites all
over the world and in
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