Former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif on Saturday (January 27) released his party's election manifesto. The much-anticipated election manifesto has been unveiled just weeks before general elections are due in Pakistan on February 8. Interestingly, Nawaz Sharif has said in his manifesto that if he voted back to power, he would send 'message of peace' to other countries, including India, as reported by Pakistani news outlet Dawn.

Watch | Pakistan elections: Will Nawaz Sharif get clear majority?

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As he launched his manifesto, Sharif said at a party event in Lahore that the manifesto has been&nbsp;made with "great efforts". He vowed that promises in the manifesto will be fully implemented if his party is voted to power.

Stressing that Pakistan's economy was the most important aspect, Sharif said that on Saturday, he was talking neither to “express his grievances” nor was he “in a mood to complain today”.

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He took a dig at former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, without mentioning his name.

“If I was there in the previous government instead of the person who you saw, I would have never done what he did,” said Sharif as quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-federal-investigator-summons-journalists-for-expressing-opinion-about-sitting-chief-justice-684238">Pakistan’s Federal Investigator summons journalists for expressing opinion about sitting Chief Justice</a>

Khan is currently beset with legal troubles and there is also a question of whether his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) would be able to contest upcoming elections because of the&nbsp;battle with election commission on technical aspects.

<h2>Here are some of the promises Nawaz Sharif's PML (N) made in its poll manifesto</h2>

<ul>
	<li>If voted to power, the party said that it will provide “cheap and increased electricity” to the public and would ensure. “speedy development”. It has said that this will result in 20 to 30 per cent reduction in electricity bills. Additionally, the manifesto said that that there will be 15,000 megawatt boost in electricity production and 10,000 megawatt increase in production of solar energy.</li>
	<li>The party has promised that it will ensure greater representation of youth in national politics as well as in local governments. PML (N) has said that it would restore student unions and expand the scope of the National Youth Scheme which would include financial help for IT start-ups and entrepreneurship.</li>
	<li>The manifesto says that Sharif's government would establish "Pakistan's first sports university"</li>
	<li>About foreign policy, the manifesto says that Pakistan will send “message of peace” to other countries including India. But there is a condition. The manifesto said that PML(N) wanted India to reverse actions it took in Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019.</li>
</ul>

In August 2019, India abrogated Section 370 of the Indian Constitution that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and changed status of J&amp;K from a state to a union territory.

<h2>PPP releases manifesto as well</h2>

Pakistan People's Party's (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari shared the party's manifesto on X (formerly Twitter). The manifesto is called "Chuno Nai Soch Ko" (Choose new thinking).

"The PPP is the only party with a plan to combat poverty, unemployment &amp; inflation," he wrote in his post on X.

The manifesto mainly deals with poverty eradication and facilities for lower and working classes, healthcare, education, food security, women's empowerment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif on Saturday (January 27) released his party's election manifesto. The much-anticipated election manifesto has been unveiled just weeks before general elections are due in Pakistan on February 8.

Former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif on Saturday (January 27) released his party's election manifesto. The much-anticipated election manifesto has been unveiled just weeks before general elections are due in Pakistan on February 8. Interestingly, Nawaz Sharif has said in his manifesto that if he voted back to power, he would send 'message of peace' to other countries, including India, as reported by Pakistani news outlet Dawn. Watch | Pakistan elections: Will Nawaz Sharif get clear majority? × As he launched his manifesto, Sharif said at a party event in Lahore that the manifesto has been made with "great efforts". He vowed that promises in the manifesto will be fully implemented if his party is voted to power. Stressing that Pakistan's economy was the most important aspect, Sharif said that on Saturday, he was talking neither to “express his grievances” nor was he “in a mood to complain today”. Also Read | Pakistan seeks rollover of $2 billion loan from China: Report He took a dig at former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, without mentioning his name. “If I was there in the previous government instead of the person who you saw, I would have never done what he did,” said Sharif as quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn. Also Read | Pakistan’s Federal Investigator summons journalists for expressing opinion about sitting Chief Justice Khan is currently beset with legal troubles and there is also a question of whether his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) would be able to contest upcoming elections because of the battle with election commission on technical aspects. Here are some of the promises Nawaz Sharif's PML (N) made in its poll manifesto If voted to power, the party said that it will provide “cheap and increased electricity” to the public and would ensure. “speedy development”. It has said that this will result in 20 to 30 per cent reduction in electricity bills. Additionally, the manifesto said that that there will be 15,000 megawatt boost in electricity production and 10,000 megawatt increase in production of solar energy. The party has promised that it will ensure greater representation of youth in national politics as well as in local governments. PML (N) has said that it would restore student unions and expand the scope of the National Youth Scheme which would include financial help for IT start-ups and entrepreneurship. The manifesto says that Sharif's government would establish "Pakistan's first sports university" About foreign policy, the manifesto says that Pakistan will send “message of peace” to other countries including India. But there is a condition. The manifesto said that PML(N) wanted India to reverse actions it took in Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. In August 2019, India abrogated Section 370 of the Indian Constitution that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and changed status of J&K from a state to a union territory. PPP releases manifesto as well Pakistan People's Party's (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari shared the party's manifesto on X (formerly Twitter). The manifesto is called "Chuno Nai Soch Ko" (Choose new thinking). "The PPP is the only party with a plan to combat poverty, unemployment & inflation," he wrote in his post on X. The manifesto mainly deals with poverty eradication and facilities for lower and working classes, healthcare, education, food security, women's empowerment. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif's party manifesto talks of ‘message of peace’ for India, but conditions apply

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported.

The high court upheld the decisions of the returning officer (RO) and appellate tribunal given against acceptance of the disqualified former premier's nomination papers from NA-122 and NA-89 constituencies.

It reported that Imran's nomination papers had been rejected primarily on the grounds of being convicted in the Toshakhana case, in which he was sentenced to three years of imprisonment. The case, filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), had accused Imran of not mentioning the details of state gifts in his tax declarations.

Imran's nomination papers from NA-122 were also dismissed on the grounds of the proposer not being a voter from the constituency.

The appellate tribunals had also upheld the decisions of the respective returning officers (ROs) with an observation that the conviction and sentence were two different terms as conviction pertained to the guilty verdict and sentence stands for the rigours following conviction.

Earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) reserved the decision on a writ petition filed by Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan against the election appellate tribunal's dismissal of his appeal regarding the rejection of his nomination papers by the Returning Officer (RO), The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday.

Arguing during the hearing, Imran Khan's counsel contended that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) lacks the authority to disqualify an individual.

The tribunals had noted that the conviction meant a guilty verdict pronounced by a court in reference to the delinquency attributed to an accused, whereas the sentence denoted the quantum of punishment.

Subsequently, Imran had filed two petitions in the LHC asking the high court to set aside the decisions of the ROs and the appellate tribunals of rejecting the nomination papers of the petitioner from both constituencies of the National Assembly.

During the previous hearing, Advocate Uzair Bhandari had argued on behalf of Imran that the conviction on the charge of moral turpitude did not fall under the definition of disqualification. He said the conviction of the petitioner could not be equated with the conviction for corruption or accumulating illegal assets, Dawn News reported.

He also pointed out that an Indian court enlisted the offence of moral turpitude lower than the offence involving financial corruption. However, the bench observed that the standards of morality in Pakistan were different from other regions.

Bhandari further argued that the RO had no jurisdiction to pass the impugned order on the basis of the conviction on moral turpitude. Meanwhile, a lawyer for the ECP argued that the petitioner's conviction was still in force and he had not been acquitted by the high court.

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported.

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported. The high court upheld the decisions of the returning officer (RO) and appellate tribunal given against acceptance of the disqualified former premier's nomination papers from NA-122 and NA-89 constituencies. It reported that Imran's nomination papers had been rejected primarily on the grounds of being convicted in the Toshakhana case, in which he was sentenced to three years of imprisonment. The case, filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), had accused Imran of not mentioning the details of state gifts in his tax declarations. Imran's nomination papers from NA-122 were also dismissed on the grounds of the proposer not being a voter from the constituency. The appellate tribunals had also upheld the decisions of the respective returning officers (ROs) with an observation that the conviction and sentence were two different terms as conviction pertained to the guilty verdict and sentence stands for the rigours following conviction. Earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) reserved the decision on a writ petition filed by Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan against the election appellate tribunal's dismissal of his appeal regarding the rejection of his nomination papers by the Returning Officer (RO), The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday. Arguing during the hearing, Imran Khan's counsel contended that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) lacks the authority to disqualify an individual. The tribunals had noted that the conviction meant a guilty verdict pronounced by a court in reference to the delinquency attributed to an accused, whereas the sentence denoted the quantum of punishment. Subsequently, Imran had filed two petitions in the LHC asking the high court to set aside the decisions of the ROs and the appellate tribunals of rejecting the nomination papers of the petitioner from both constituencies of the National Assembly. During the previous hearing, Advocate Uzair Bhandari had argued on behalf of Imran that the conviction on the charge of moral turpitude did not fall under the definition of disqualification. He said the conviction of the petitioner could not be equated with the conviction for corruption or accumulating illegal assets, Dawn News reported. He also pointed out that an Indian court enlisted the offence of moral turpitude lower than the offence involving financial corruption. However, the bench observed that the standards of morality in Pakistan were different from other regions. Bhandari further argued that the RO had no jurisdiction to pass the impugned order on the basis of the conviction on moral turpitude. Meanwhile, a lawyer for the ECP argued that the petitioner's conviction was still in force and he had not been acquitted by the high court.

Pakistan elections: Imran Khan's hopes to contest polls get another setback

Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8.

The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions.&nbsp;

The resolution, presented by Senator Dilawar Khan, received the approval of a majority of lawmakers.

The move was however opposed by Pakistan Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah, who were present in the House.

The resolution stated, "The Constitution upheld the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan and the Election Commission of Pakistan was bound to conduct free and fair polls contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regional people."

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Resolution passed by majority in the Senate today....! <a href="https://twitter.com/appcsocialmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@appcsocialmedia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GovtofPakistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovtofPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MoIB_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoIB_Official</a> <a href="https://t.co/K1OnrldizV">pic.twitter.com/K1OnrldizV</a>
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&nbsp;

Various political parties, as per the resolution, had raised concerns related to weather conditions and how it would lead to difficulties in ensuring participation of voters in the cold areas at the time of the electoral process.

"The vote turnout in colder areas remains notably high during the moderate weather conditions. January and February are recognised as the coldest months in the majority of the areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," it stated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-issues-arrest-warrants-to-over-100-activists-of-imran-khans-party-over-may-9-violence-676967">Pak court issues arrest warrants to over 100 activists of Imran Khan's party over May 9 violence</a>

<h2>‘Security Concerns’</h2>

Senator Khan expressed "great concern" over recent attacks targeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures.

"Recent attempts on the lives of JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures have&nbsp;raised concerns about the safety of political leaders."

"The Ministry of Interior has conveyed serious threats to the lives of prominent politicians increasing the challenges faced by political parties in exercising their right to a free and fair election," the resolution noted.

It further highlighted that there was an increase in the number of attacks on security forces and citizens, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.&nbsp;

The senator said alerts had been issued by intelligence agencies indicating "imminent threats" of militant attacks on election rallies, which could have a potential impact on the safety of citizens and the democratic electoral process.

"The intelligence agencies have warned of militant attacks threats on election rallies in both provinces".

"The Senate of Pakistan hereby resolves that the conduct in elections without addressing legitimate concerns, facilitating sufficient opportunities for election campaign and guaranteeing the safety of politicians and citizens would amount to violation of fundamental rights," the resolution stated.

"The election schedule may be postponed to facilitate the effective participation of people from all areas of&nbsp;Pakistan and belonging to all political shades,"&nbsp;it demanded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8. The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions.

Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8. The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions. The resolution, presented by Senator Dilawar Khan, received the approval of a majority of lawmakers. The move was however opposed by Pakistan Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah, who were present in the House. The resolution stated, "The Constitution upheld the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan and the Election Commission of Pakistan was bound to conduct free and fair polls contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regional people." Resolution passed by majority in the Senate today....! @appcsocialmedia @GovtofPakistan @MoIB_Official pic.twitter.com/K1OnrldizV — Senate of Pakistan (@SenatePakistan) January 5, 2024 × Various political parties, as per the resolution, had raised concerns related to weather conditions and how it would lead to difficulties in ensuring participation of voters in the cold areas at the time of the electoral process. "The vote turnout in colder areas remains notably high during the moderate weather conditions. January and February are recognised as the coldest months in the majority of the areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," it stated. Also read: Pak court issues arrest warrants to over 100 activists of Imran Khan's party over May 9 violence ‘Security Concerns’ Senator Khan expressed "great concern" over recent attacks targeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures. "Recent attempts on the lives of JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures have raised concerns about the safety of political leaders." "The Ministry of Interior has conveyed serious threats to the lives of prominent politicians increasing the challenges faced by political parties in exercising their right to a free and fair election," the resolution noted. It further highlighted that there was an increase in the number of attacks on security forces and citizens, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The senator said alerts had been issued by intelligence agencies indicating "imminent threats" of militant attacks on election rallies, which could have a potential impact on the safety of citizens and the democratic electoral process. "The intelligence agencies have warned of militant attacks threats on election rallies in both provinces". "The Senate of Pakistan hereby resolves that the conduct in elections without addressing legitimate concerns, facilitating sufficient opportunities for election campaign and guaranteeing the safety of politicians and citizens would amount to violation of fundamental rights," the resolution stated. "The election schedule may be postponed to facilitate the effective participation of people from all areas of Pakistan and belonging to all political shades," it demanded. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Senate approves resolution seeking to delay general elections scheduled for Feb 8

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.

"PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday.

He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised.

"Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said. 
 
When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him."

All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore.

Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india

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After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court.

Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years.

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According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past.

"The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/relief-for-imran-khans-party-peshawar-high-court-restores-ptis-bat-election-symbol-673753">Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol</a>

Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions.

Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military.

Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court. "PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday. He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised. "Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said. When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him." All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore. Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india × After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court. Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years. Also Read | Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past. "The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said. Also Read | Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions. Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military. Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.

Pakistan’s election body accepts Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers for NA-130 Lahore

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have&nbsp;assumed&nbsp;Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February.

Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice.

Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case

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Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-successfully-tests-fatah-ii-guided-multi-launch-rocket-system-674025">Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system</a>

Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-police-manhandle-drag-and-detain-ex-pak-fm-qureshi-even-after-sc-grants-bail-673977">Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail</a>

On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother,&nbsp;are buried.

He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda&nbsp;as reported in Pakistani media:

<ul>
	<li>If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years.</li>
	<li>People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks.</li>
	<li>Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan</li>
	<li>The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods.</li>
	<li>PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses.</li>
	<li>His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes.</li>
	<li>For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued.</li>
	<li>The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card.</li>
	<li>For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz'</li>
	<li>To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27).

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February. Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice. Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case × Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month. Also Read | Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections. Also Read | Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother, are buried. He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda as reported in Pakistani media: If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years. People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks. Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods. PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses. His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes. For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued. The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card. For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz' To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’ (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.&nbsp;

Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district.&nbsp;

Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly,

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A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat.

<h2>Who is Saveera Parkash?</h2>

Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years.&nbsp;

Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. &nbsp;

In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community.&nbsp;

Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights.&nbsp;

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During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat.&nbsp;

When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that&nbsp;PPP would endorse her candidature.

She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor.

A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn.&nbsp;

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Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise.&nbsp;

It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer.&nbsp;

According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year. Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district. Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly, ALSO READ | Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party to contest polls in Pakistan A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat. Who is Saveera Parkash? Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years. Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community. Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights. ALSO READ | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat. When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that PPP would endorse her candidature. She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor. A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn. ALSO READ | Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014 Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise. It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer. According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Saveera Parkash: In a first, Hindu woman files nomination for Pakistan’s 2024 general elections

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed.

He claimed while speaking at a workers’ convention that parties with a two-thirds majority in the current parliament have agreed on the future setup. However, he stopped short of naming the parties he was referring to.

Notably, Bilawal’s party had backed the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) in the previous coalition government with Shehbaz Sharif being the prime minister.

<h2>Bhutto urges CJP and CEC to ensure fair elections</h2>

Earlier, he also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties and fair elections.

“State institutions should play their role within the constitutional framework to ensure free, fair and impartial elections to steer the country out of the existing economic crisis,” he was quoted by Dawn as saying.

“We will accept only the decision of people’s vote and will not accept anyone else’s decision at all, because the existing problems can be solved only by a government elected by the people,” he said.

He also expressed doubts about how those who had run away from local elections were suddenly claiming that they would get a two-thirds majority, taking a jab at the Pakistan Muslim League party.

<h2>PTI expresses similar concerns</h2>

Along with Bhutto, former prime minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also levelled allegations of election interference.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan?

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Both parties allege the caretaker government was giving "preferential treatment" to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and that attempts were being made to pave the way for PML-N's return to power.

<h2>Caretaker PM hits back</h2>

Responding to the allegations, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Sunday (Nov 19) that the “victim card” could be a “narrative” of any political party.

In an interview with Pakistan’s Geo News, Kakar said holding the elections at the earliest was his utmost priority. “We want to hand over the responsibilities to the [upcoming] elected government,” he was quoted as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-acquits-ex-pm-shehbaz-ten-others-in-major-housing-corruption-case-660318">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan court acquits ex-PM Shehbaz Sharif, 10 others in major housing corruption case</a>

Notably, the general elections are scheduled for February 8, 2024, as announced by the ECP.

The notice stated that the general elections would be held on February 8, 2024, in accordance with the Supreme Court's ruling.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed.

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed. He claimed while speaking at a workers’ convention that parties with a two-thirds majority in the current parliament have agreed on the future setup. However, he stopped short of naming the parties he was referring to. Notably, Bilawal’s party had backed the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) in the previous coalition government with Shehbaz Sharif being the prime minister. Bhutto urges CJP and CEC to ensure fair elections Earlier, he also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties and fair elections. “State institutions should play their role within the constitutional framework to ensure free, fair and impartial elections to steer the country out of the existing economic crisis,” he was quoted by Dawn as saying. “We will accept only the decision of people’s vote and will not accept anyone else’s decision at all, because the existing problems can be solved only by a government elected by the people,” he said. He also expressed doubts about how those who had run away from local elections were suddenly claiming that they would get a two-thirds majority, taking a jab at the Pakistan Muslim League party. PTI expresses similar concerns Along with Bhutto, former prime minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also levelled allegations of election interference. Watch: Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan? × Both parties allege the caretaker government was giving "preferential treatment" to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and that attempts were being made to pave the way for PML-N's return to power. Caretaker PM hits back Responding to the allegations, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Sunday (Nov 19) that the “victim card” could be a “narrative” of any political party. In an interview with Pakistan’s Geo News, Kakar said holding the elections at the earliest was his utmost priority. “We want to hand over the responsibilities to the [upcoming] elected government,” he was quoted as saying. Also read: Pakistan court acquits ex-PM Shehbaz Sharif, 10 others in major housing corruption case Notably, the general elections are scheduled for February 8, 2024, as announced by the ECP. The notice stated that the general elections would be held on February 8, 2024, in accordance with the Supreme Court's ruling. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Won’t accept poll results if meddling takes place, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto warns