De seneste posts fra danske RSS feeds og weblogs på Overskrift.dk om tag'et prime http://www.overskrift.dk Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:01:35 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.overskrift.dk/images/overskrift.gif http://www.overskrift.dk Overskrift.dk http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 http://mortennorgaard.wordpress.com/2012/02/07/der-er-gaet-to-maneder-siden-sidst/ … Så derfor må det være på tide med nogle nye billeder! Er gået hen og blevet rigtig glad for min 35mm f/1.8 prime som har gjort at jeg kunne skyde nedenstående billeder af Fie’s nevø uden brug af blitz … Læs resten → kanonkongen18 Morten Nørgaard Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:04:07 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/nfLQQEruWjw/ Pakistan expresses unswerving resolve to boost economic ties with Iran Islamabad: (Tuesday, February 07, 2012) The Advisor to the Prime Minister on finance, Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said today that Pakistan was committed to boost its relations with Iran, particularly in the field of economy. Shaikh said this during an interview with the Islamic Republic NewsAgency here in Islamabad today. The advisor to the PM on finance further stated that both of the countries had great untapped potential to enhance their trade ties. He was of the view that both of the Muslim countries were united by the bond of history, faith and culture. Commenting upon the meeting between the contingents from Iran and its Pakistani counterparts on economic cooperation, Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said that they had a productive day to improve the bilateral ties further. The advisor to the Prime Minister urged the businessmen in both Iran and Pakistan to work together and enhance the cooperation in business and trade sector. Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:48:20 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/wycWj8q9XA0/ Remedy to suspension, Sheikh and Hussain made advisors to the PM Islamabad: (Monday, February 06, 2012) After being served with a suspension notification by the Supreme Court of Pakistan today, Dr. Asim Hussain and Dr. Hafeez Sheikh have been made advisors to the Prime Minster Yousuf Raza Gilani. The decision was made a few hours after the apex court, through a notification, disqualified the federal minister for finance and petroleum respectively. Today, after moved by a petition forwarded by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf, the Supreme Court had suspended the membership of 28 legislators which also included nine members National Assembly and three Senators. The decision on part of the apex court was taken on the grounds of these members re-election under an incomplete Election Commission which was against constitution. All these lawmakers will remain suspended unless the passage of 20th amendment in the constitution. Earlier, the Supreme Court had given the government time to introduce the said amendment latest by February 6. But with the government failing to do so, the court ultimately had to take the decision. Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:33:31 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/__lYyKwjx24/ Can?t afford war on Kashmir, issue must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy: PM Gilani Islamabad: (Monday, February 06, 2012) stating that Pakistan was a responsible nuclear state that looks forward to negotiations, dialogues and diplomacy to resolve its long-standing issues with India, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said yesterday that Pakistan cannot afford a war to resolve the Kashmir Issue. Highlighting that war was no more an option for the two neighbours, the PM said, ?Four wars have already been fought on the Kashmir issue and the region still was a flashpoint. However, to him, none of the countries could afford a war in the 21st century. Sharing his remarks yesterday at a convention at the Prime Minister Secretariat to mark Solidarity with Kashmiris on Kashmir day, Gilani further stated, ?We want to resolve issues through dialogue, diplomacy, prudent policy and national consensus.? However, highlighting the importance of Kashmir for Pakistan, he mentioned that Kashmir was the cornerstone of the country?s foreign policy. Saying that Pakistan was committed to stand with its Kashmiri brethren in their fight for independence, Pakistan?s head of state said, ?We are committed to continue with the moral, political and diplomatic support to Kashmiris. The whole nation, including all the political parties, is united on the cause of Kashmir.? Marking that war was not on cards for the country as for knowing its responsibilities very clearly, it was on the way to formulate responsible policies, Gilani stressed that Pakistan?s policies must be made through national consensus and by the true representatives of the people, and not by the individuals. The Prime Minister noted that being a party that was a guardian of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto?s nationalist legacy, Kashmir Policy was the focus of the Pakistan People?s Party led government. Pakistan has been observing the Kashmir day since 1990 to mark its solidarity with its Kashmiri brethren and the day, which is a public holiday in the country, observes nationwide rallies throughout the day. Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:28:02 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/vApnyzkGdG4/ Pakistan reaffirm its support to Kashmiri cause, says PM Gilani on Kashmir day Islamabad: (Monday, February 06, 2012) Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, in his message to the nation on Kashmir day, has said that Pakistan stood with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters in solemnly observing the Kashmir Day. The PM said, ?On this occasion, we reaffirm our complete support to the just Kashmiri cause and renew our pledge of steadfast support for the heroic struggle of the Kashmiri people for the effective realization of their fundamental and inalienable rights.? Acknowledging the endeavors Kashmiri people have born to realize the dream of freedom, Gilani said, ?Generations after generations of the proud and patriotic people of Jammu and Kashmir have rendered innumerable sacrifices, braved adversity and carried forward the torch of liberty, freedom and justice. They have proven to the world that they will never compromise their dignity and honour nor forfeit their fundamental rights.? To him, the peaceful struggle of the Kashmiri men, women and children in upholding basic human values and universally-recognized principles deserved respect, admiration and support of the international community. Referring to Pakistan?s resolve to stick by the UN resolution for the freedom of Kashmir from Indian forces, premier Gilani said, ?Pakistan believes that the United Nations? promise to the Kashmiris as contained in relevant resolutions must be fulfilled. A peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, that accords fully with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, is a sine-qua-non for peace and prosperity in this region.? At the end of his message, he expressed the determination government of Pakistan and its people had for the Kashmir cause. He said, ?The Government and the people of Pakistan will continue to extend their full moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people for the realization of their fundamental rights and legitimate aspirations.? Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:52:51 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/HKygRlAzbe8/ PM Gilani going Qatar to talk about Afghan peace Prime Minster Yusuf Raza Gilani is going to Qatar on Monday to contribute in Afghan peace talk while Taliban and US officials have initiated the preliminary round of the discussion. According to an article by AFP, Pakistan insists that any progression to put an end to the 10-year war should be Afghan-led. On the other hand, President Hamid Karzai is deemed to have felt unimportant by the discussion initiated between US Officials and Taliban. Islamabad has sanctioned Gilani a three-day visit to Qatar, in an attempt to take benefit from the opportunity and maximize trade. The spokesman of the Foreign Ministry said, ?He will meet among others the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa al Thani and Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabr al Thani.? ?The prime minister?s visit is aimed at opening new vistas for enhanced mutual cooperation and activating the existing structured mechanisms and institutional linkages,? he added. Furthermore, the Taliban affirmed that they intended to establish a political office in Qatar prior to expected talks with the US. The preliminary round of the peace talk has begun between both parties and a prisoner exchange is possible. On the condition of anonymity, a high-ranked Pakistani official told AFP that, ?There are certain ideas and suggestions on Afghan reconciliation and when Prime Minister Gilani meets Qatar?s leadership, these will certainly come under discussion.? ?The Americans have been briefing us on all developments aimed at pushing forward the peace process in Afghanistan and we have clearly told them that Islamabad strictly adheres to a policy of non-interference,? he added. While responding to a question regarding the Afghan peace, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar told that Pakistan will do anything to help Afghans end the war, but stressed that the peace process should be led by them. The senior official told that it was ?important to engage all Afghan factions including Taliban in the process to achieve a lasting peace.? While addressing the question regarding Taliban office in Qatar, the official said, ?now they have an address and all those wanting peace can have a contact.? Mursil Mehmood Butt NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:41:08 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/Wd0cjvURU4Y/ Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani will discuss the Pakistan?s stance with the Gulf state’s leaders on the issue of peace talks with the Afghan Taliban during his visit to Qatar, expected by next week. Media reports quoting Pakistani officials reported that the Pakistani premier will leave for Qatar next week to meet Gulf state?s rulers. A few weeks back, the Afghan Taliban, in quite a major development, announced they would set up a political office in Qatar.  It was a key boost in a peace process that has already been marked by setbacks and mistrust among the central figures. Amid unease between Kabul and Islamabad over the decision by the Taliban to open the Qatar office rather by Dubai or Saudi Arabia, the Gilani?s visit will bring a new level of discussion over the issue. Earlier, the officials from Pakistan and Afghanistan had expressed their concerns over the developments, saying they were being left out of the peace negotiations. The report quoting foreign office spokesman Abdul Basit observed, ?Our prime minister will have discussions in this connection with the Qatar leadership. He will also inform them that what the Pakistani perspective in this situation is.? The official clarified, ?While it is not specifically on the agenda, Afghanistan will be discussed, including briefings from the Qatari leadership on efforts being made for the peace process, the Taliban office.? According to the report Pakistan is a key player in moves to end the 10-year-old war in Afghanistan because many of the leaders of the insurgency are said to be taking refuge on its territorial dominion. The ties between moved towards normalization after Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar paid a visit to Kabul last week. She said that ill will had eased considerably between the two neighboring states. In her view, Pakistan has not been playing a substantial role in the nascent Afghan peace process. She, however, said that they would encourage militant groups like the Haqqani network or the Taliban to lay down their weapons if asked by Afghanistan to initiate the peace process. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Sat, 04 Feb 2012 08:46:57 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/dxAPKEJ9src/ Prime minister, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has warned that no one dare cast an evil eye on Pakistan, as long as PPP was in power. Addressing a public gathering here, the PM stated that while others merely promised to ensure vacation of Shamsi airbase by American troops and closure if NATO supplies routes, PPP had carried out the tasks, practically. He said that PPP was an ideological party, whose history was replete with struggles and sacrifices, reminding his audience that even ?dictators failed to eradicate the vision of Benazir Bhutto despite engineering her murder? ?She and her father Z.A. Bhutto sacrificed their lives for poor, labors, farmers, women and minorities , and it was these sacrifices that had helped evolve democracy in Country?, he declared. He cited NFC Awards, termination of black laws of FCR, devolution of rights and ending sense of deprivation of masses of Balochistan and Gilgit, as prime achievements of governments, besides empowerment of women through BISP. Terming youth as prime assets of Federation, the PM invited them to serve their homeland with zealous and fervor, while he also thanked masses for braving cold weather and rain to make the rally a success. PM Gilani expressed government?s keen desire to eradicate menaces of polio Dengue virus and hepatitis among others. He also publicly announced his approval of such amenities as potable water , and provision of four buses for public transportation; while ensuring future provision of system of shuttle trains. The PM also announced his approval of all demands of Sheikhupura region, and said that PPP was not a power- hungry party, and had not come to power through any back-door means, but was always voted-in by masses. He wowed not to accept anything against the vision of late Benazir Bhutto, and said that party would reject any rule, lacking mandate of masses. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:46:22 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/-QkkMn614O4/ The simmering crisis between Pakistan?s government and judiciary flared dramatically on Thursday when the Supreme Court announced it would pursue contempt charges against the Prime Minister, Yousaf Raza Gilani, for failing to reopen a corruption investigation into the finances of his boss, President Asif Ali Zardari. The Supreme Court said it would start proceedings for contempt of court against Mr. Gilani on Feb. 13. If convicted, he faces up to six months in jail and possible disqualification from public office. The court order was a significant escalation of long-simmering tensions between the judiciary and the government and threatened to plunge the country into fresh political turmoil as its leaders debated the contours of a new strategic relationship with the United States. Since 2009, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, has insisted that the government write a letter to the authorities in Switzerland, asking them to reopen a corruption investigation against Mr. Zardari that stretches back to the 1990s and involves his finances in that country. The government has responded with stalling tactics, using various ruses to dodge the order in court, while in public it has contended that Mr. Zardari enjoys immunity from prosecution while in office. But the court?s forbearance ended last month when it ordered Mr. Gilani to appear before it under threat of contempt charges. Amid dramatic scenes, Mr. Gilani turned up on Jan. 19, flanked by supporters, and he was represented by Aitzaz Ahsan, one of the country?s most famous lawyers. Tensions seemed to ease when Mr. Ahsan promised that Mr. Gilani was ready to debate the immunity issue in court, effectively conceding that the government was ready to resolve the case through legal means. But that truce ended on Thursday when Mr. Ahsan argued that the government simply could not write the Swiss letter, prompting the court to make good on its threats of contempt charges, and in the process reviving a perilous institutional clash involving Pakistan?s top politicians, generals and judges. Hamza Jahangir NewsPakistan.pk Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:44:29 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/kjNWkqlN_qg/   As the extraordinary soap opera in politics continues, the NRO (National Reconciliation Ordinance) saga is back with a bang. Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has been summoned once again to the Supreme Court on February 13 to face charges of contempt for not implementing the court?s rulings. The uncertainty and shakiness have become the political fashions but the latest crisis is perhaps the greatest threat. One simply solution is that the incumbent simply writes a letter to Swiss authorities to reopen the cases against President Asif Ali Zardari that had closed under the cover of NRO. In case the government is ready to do so, the issue would likely disappear and it can concentrate on its agenda of holding Senate elections as per schedule. Furthermore, it will also get to the budget in June and then contemplating when to contest general elections. The common-sense thing for the PPP-led government to do would be to oblige the court when Aitzaz Ahsan, the counsel of the premier, is claiming that writing a letter to Swiss authorities would not significantly impact Asif Ali Zardari?s presidential status. However, it does not seem as simpler as we are looking. The key question is that whether the government, which has long preferred to respond politically to its legal agonies, will now go for the common-sense thing or not. It has only limited options if it wants to contest the case on legal grounds. Apart from an intra-court appeal, the counsel of the PM will hardly find a loophole for his client to wriggle out through. There will be little space by way of argument that can be deployed to avert or even postpone the gravel from the executive slot once the contempt of court proceedings start. It is quite impossible and illogical thinking that any bench of the apex court will declare the NRO judgment faulty, as a 17-judge bench had already declared that the government must dispatch a letter to Swiss authorities. After a couple of years? patience to see that the NRO judgment is not implemented in totality has given ways to annoyance. The apex court, which is perceived to be in a careful urgency, is not ready to help in dodging the political and democratic stability. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:34:47 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/aal_nmk675w/ Keeping an eye on next month?s Senate polls, the Pakistan People?s Party (PPP) leadership Thursday decided to contest Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani?s case on legal grounds rather than seeking any sort of confrontation with the apex court. In quite a wise move, the party has decided that Aitzaz Ahsan, the counsel of the Prime Minister, will file an intra-court appeal against the Supreme Court?s February 2 ruling summoning the premier on February 13 to be indicted for contempt of court charges for not writing a letter to Swiss authorities to reopen corruption cases against his boss, President Asif Ali Zardari According to the media reports, the party?s top brass has made a mind not to publically criticize the higher judiciary rather than to contest the case on legal grounds. It decided to fight its case claiming immunity for President Asif Ali Zardari under the Constitution against all criminal proceedings inside and outside the country. Earlier, the PM while speaking on floor of the House asked all state institutions to work within their constitutional limits, confirming that he would appear in the Supreme Court on February 13 to face contempt of court proceedings. ?I was summoned earlier and I appeared before the court? now the court has summoned me again and I will appear before it,? he said during his address in the National Assembly. He said if all institutions worked within their ambit defined in the Constitution of 1973, they would earn no criticism. Aitzaz Ahsen, the legal defender of the premier, while briefing the media confirmed that he would file an intra-court appeal against the indictment. He observed that it was the court?s prerogative whether to suspend the order or not. ?This will actually be decided after getting a copy of the order,? he added. Emphasizing on his earlier stance, he stated that the show-cause notice issued to the prime minister should be discharged. In his view, Gilani acted upon the advice of the law minister and law secretary, which was sent in writing, and thus, did not commit any contempt of court. Aitzaz maintained that he wanted democracy to prevail and flourish in the country and clash of institutions to end. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:39:48 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/dZwQ3ELohdg/ Investors at KSE witness careful buying, Stocks end flat Karachi: (Thursday, February 02, 2012) After witnessing a week of frantic buying, Karachi stock exchange observed a flat day today. Although the day kicked off with significant buying, but after the news about contempt hearing of the prime minister, investors decided to contain themselves from pouring in further money. The Supreme Court has decided to charge the Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani with contempt of court as he could not re-open and pursue the corruption cases against Co-chairman of his party and President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari. Now the contempt of court hearing is due on Feb 13. With a low trade volume, the KSE 100-index closed down at 0.01 per cent at 11,929.78 points. The volume of the shares traded today rose up to 107.72 million shares, compared to yesterday?s figure of 93.44 million. Commenting on low buying, Ahsan Mehanti, a director at Arif Habib Corp Ltd. Said, ?Cautious investors squared their positions after the prime minister was ordered to appear on February.? Explaining today?s first session?s increased trade volume, dealers said that investors rushed for textile shares after the news that the European Union had approved a waiver on textile export duties for 75 Pakistani products. Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:03:30 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/kwmeAO0b2zo/ Supreme Court of Pakistan to indict the Prime Minister The Supreme Court of Pakistan has recently decided that it will indict the Prime Minister of Pakistan Yousuf Raza Gilani by holding him in contempt of the court. The decision was announced based on the fact that the Prime Minister of Pakistan had failed to comply with repeated orders by the Supreme Court that asked the government of Pakistan ruled by the Pakistan People?s Party to write to the Swiss government. These instructions were given by the Supreme Court because it had wanted to re open a case against the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari which was being investigated by the Swiss probe. The allegations in the case were made against the President of Pakistan as well as Bhutto, holding them both responsible for carrying out money laundering activities. However, during the time that the President of Pakistan was Gen (retd.) Pervez Musharraf, the National Reconciliation Ordinance was signed by Bhutto which caused the investigation against Asif Ali Zardari to come to a halt. However, the apex court of Pakistan had decided that the NRO was illegal which in effect made the stoppage of the investigation void as well. Therefore, the Supreme Court of Pakistan had ordered the government to write to the Swiss probe so that the investigation could be restarted but the Prime Minister of Pakistan had resisted in consequence of which he appeared before the Supreme Court to give explanation for his actions. Despite the fact that Yousuf Raza Gilani had appeared before the Supreme Court of Pakistan, he had insisted that the government cannot ask the Swiss probe to re start the investigation against Asif Ali Zardari as the President of Pakistan enjoyed complete immunity both within and outside the country. For this reason, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has decided to hold the Prime Minister under contempt.   Judge Nasir-ul-Mulk made the following comments on the matter in order to express his views: "We are satisfied that prima facie there is a case for further proceeding into the matter. Adjourned for February 13, for framing charges. Prime minister is required to remain present in the court.? Rabiya Maqbool NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:35:45 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/8TJ-V_90ey8/ Islamabad, February 2: Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan summons Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to appear in the court on February 13 against the contempt of court charges resulting from his refusal to follow SC orders regarding the corruption cases against Asif Ali Zardari, the President of Pakistan. Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk said in the court that proceeding against the refusal by Gilani became due as he did not follow the instructions over writing to Swiss authorities to re-open the corruption cases against Zardari. On the other hand, the government has been showing reluctance by arguing that president has constitutional immunity and no case can be opened against him while he is in office. However, it was a shock for the government that has already become weak and has no way out from the current crisis. PM appeared before court on January 19 and emphasised on the point that president has immunity. But now, court has summoned him again experts says that if he is convicted, he will be removed from office and can also be sent to jail. While talking about the proceeding of the case, Nasir-ul-Mulk said, “We are satisfied that prima facie there is a case for further proceeding into the matter. Adjourned for February 13, for framing charges. Prime minister is required to remain present in the court.” However, Aitzaz Ahsan, the lawyer of Gilani said that appeal can be made against the decision of court. Aitzaz said, “He (Gilani) has been asked to be present in person on February 13 when he will be indicted. There is a possibility for an appeal in this matter. It is up to the court whether to suspend this order or not. This will be decided after getting a copy of the order.” The government is facing worst crisis in its four-year ruling period as it has been surrounded by numerous issues and every issue holds paramount importance. Now, SC has summoned PM over the issue that he did not follow the orders of highest court of Pakistan and will have to bear its consequences. Muhammad Ahmad Nazir NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:13 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/33FGoYTzPEs/ Third party can take advantage; says Aitzaz Ahsan Amid growing tension between the judiciary and the executive, Aitzaz Ahsan, the counsel of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Thursday warned that any third party could take advantage of the rift.   Talking to the media persons outside the Supreme Court building, he groaned over the apex court?s verdict in contempt of court case against Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani. In an annoying mood, he raised a question that why only civilian leadership was received contempt of court proceedings. He observed, ?Why only civilian prime ministers are indicted in contempt of court and not any military generals?? On Thursday, the Supreme Court has indicted the prime minister, summoning him in person on February 13. The court said it would to frame the formal charges against the premier with contempt of court for refusing to reopen a corruption case against his boss, President Asif Ali Zardari, in Switzerland. PM Gilani can face up to six months in jail and possible disqualification from public office if he convicted. A seven-member bench of the apex court headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk gave the ruling after hearing the case. The court declined Ahsan?s plea for more time to present his arguments in the case. The counsel stated that that his client has the right to appeal against the decision and that he would advice the prime minister to do so. He, however, said that the premier could only be repositioned from his post through constitutional ways. ?Mr Gilani can remain prime minister even if he is convicted,? he observed. Aitzaz further said that could file an intra-court appeal. He asserted, ?There is a possibility for an appeal in this matter. I will suggest to my client to file an appeal against this order. It is up to the court whether to suspend this order or not. This will be decided after getting a copy of the order.? The Supreme Court since 2009 insisted that the government should dispatch a letter to Swiss authorities, reopening a longstanding corruption case against President Asif Ali Zardari. However, the incumbent dillydallied, applying a variety of legal maneuvers to circumvent the legal ruling in court. Although, in public it argued that President Zardari enjoys immunity from prosecution while in office but not moved the court seeking so. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:50:59 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/2fafDF6T7xg/ The Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that contempt of court proceedings would be initiated against Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, summoning him on February 13 to frame charges. A seven-member bench of the Supreme Court with Justice Nasirul Mulk in the chair observed, ?After the preliminary hearing, we are satisfied that prima facie there is a case for further proceeding into the matter. The Prime minister is required to remain present in the court.? Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan during the hearing strengthened his argument by presenting Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry?s earlier order which stated that the prime minister was obliged to take advice in all matters before taking any decision. He had stressed in the last hearing that his client did not take the decision of not writing the letter to Swiss authorities himself, but was instead advised to take the step. He argued that following the chief justice?s earlier order, Gilani was supposed to seek advice from the Law Ministry and the Human Rights Division before taking any action, and the advice he received in the NRO (National Reconciliation Ordinance) implementation case was not in favour of the court?s decision. Aitzaz Ahsan stated, ?In any civil or military issue, the government has to consult the Law, Justice and Human Rights Division. According to the Rules of Business 1973, the prime minister should have consultations before taking any decision.? Whereupon, Justice Nasirul Mulk remarked that the PM was efficient in listening to the Law Ministry and the Human Rights Division, but did not give due consideration to the court?s rulings. In an unparallel move, Aitzaz Ahsan presented a summary to the court from September 23, 2010, which stated that there were no cases against President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Gilani in Switzerland. He prayed before court that the Swiss authorities dispatched a letter to Pakistani authorities asking for evidence, in reply to which, the government assured them that all the cases were closed in the country owing to the NRO. On which, the Swiss authorities closed the cases on lack of evidence, he added. Expressing its surprise, the court raised a question why it has never been presented in any of the previous hearings, adding that if the cases are closed, then why is the government afraid of dispatching the letter to Swiss authorities. The court continued that the government should write the letter for its satisfaction, and then we will see what the Swiss authorities have to say in reply. The prime minister?s lawyer Aitzaz Ahsan said it was possible to appeal. He commented, ?He has been asked to be present in person on February 13 when he will be indicted. There is a possibility for an appeal in this matter. It is up to the court whether to suspend this order or not. This will be decided after getting a copy of the order.? Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:34:15 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/BzNRiL5pbSg/ Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, the counsel of Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani in the contempt of court notice, on Thursday contended that the premier acted on the advice of the law ministry in accordance with rules of business. In order to strengthen his argument, he also presented Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry?s earlier order, which said that the prime minister is obliged to take advice in all matters before taking any major step. The premier?s counsel had stressed in the last hearing that his client did not take the decision of not writing the letter to Swiss authorities himself, but was in lieu advised against it. Aitzaz Ahsan during the hearing argued that following the chief justice?s earlier ruling, the PM was supposed to seek advice from the Law Ministry and the Human Rights Division before taking any action. He further stated that the advice he received in this NRO (National Reconciliation Ordinance) implementation case was not in favour of the court?s verdict. Justice Nasirul Mulk in the course of ruling remarked that the premier was efficient in listening to the Law Ministry and the Human Rights Division, but did not give due consideration to the court?s rulings. Whereupon, he also observed that on one hand there is advice and on the other hand there were clear court rulings. He asked that could the prime minister not reject the advice. In counter argue, Aitzaz replied that he could but the safe way was to implement it. Earlier, at the end of Wednesday?s proceedings, the bench asked Ahsan to complete his arguments by Thursday before the tea-break and, if convinced by his arguments, the court would discharge the contempt or move ahead with formally framing the charge against Prime Minister Gilani. It remarked, ?This is a preliminary hearing in which the court has to test the bona fide of the prime minister.? A nine-judge bench comprising Justice Nasirul Mulk, Justice Asif Saeed Khan Khosa, Justice Sarmad Jalal Osmani, Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan, Justice Ijaz Ahmed Chaudhry, Justice Gulzar Ahmed and Justice Athar Saeed is hearing the show cause notice served upon the Prime Minister in the NRO implementation case. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:19:12 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/gWAmwS3-TMQ/ Cabinet convenes meeting to discuss FM Khar?s visit to Russia Islamabad: (Wednesday, February 01, 2012) While Pakistan is looking forward to renew its ties with Russia, just ahead of Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar?s visit to the country, Cabinet held a meeting here today and discuss the details of her tour. In the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, Khar briefed about her upcoming visit to the Russia, with which, after a long phase of hostility and distrust, Pakistan vows to build friendly and trusting ties. In the meeting, the cabinet gave a go ahead to the Foreign Minister for the Memorandums of Understanding that are to be signed during her tour with the Russian Authorities. Khar is expected to take a visit Russia by next week. In context of Pakistan’s deteriorated relations with the US, Pakistan foreign minister’s visit to Russia is deemed extremly important as this will also carve out the dimensions and depths of Pakistan’s ties with America which are being revisited by Pakistani governmetn after the Salala check post attacks. Fayyaz Yaseen NewsPakistan.pk Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:08:31 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/h_OLLRLeXmU/ We want fair elections, says Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani On Tuesday, while referring towards the demand of Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) leader, Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan, the Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani told that the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) will be appointed in agreement with the all-political parties. PM Gilani stressed that the government wants to make sure of free and fair elections in Pakistan. ?The Chief Election Commissioner will be appointed in consensus with all the political parties after the retirement of the incumbent CEC, as we did in the case of the appointment of members of Election Commission,? said Gilani. While responding to a question regarding the discontent of opposition parties over the selection of Chairman of NAB, Gilani said, there is a huge difference in the appointments of both. He explained that the Chairman of NAB is elected by the president in discussion with the leader of the House and the chief of the opposition party. He clarified that ?Consultation does not mean consensus.? According to an article by AFP, Gilani said, ?I want to assure that there would be free, fair and transparent elections. This would be the first government, when there would be a smooth transition (of power).? ?This would be the first government, when there would be a smooth transition (of power),? he added. He also told that Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) would materialize an election coalition with the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) that would help them in many ways. Upon the formation of new provinces, Gilani said, ?We are evolving consensus in this respect.? He clarified that the issue of formation of new provinces will be brought in front of the parliament and will be decided by taking all parties in agreement. Gilani also added that the Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani and DG ISI Shuja Pasha were not willing to avail an extension in their services but he requested them. In response to a question regarding the peace building in Afghanistan, PM Gilani said, ?Naturally, we are stakeholders and on the Afghan issue we will be consulted.? He further added that, Foreign Minister, Hina Rabbani Khar is scheduled to meet the Afghan President on Wednesday. Mursil Mehmood Butt NewsPakistan.pk Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:12:17 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/MyzC-aDGR6A/ ?Rally? fever in Pakistan Hypothetically, it?s the same well-mannered and electorate that the politicians are contending, however, the different parts of the political ambit appear to be holding different worlds at the same time. Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, last week in Davos, Switzerland, rebuffed the possibility of early elections, saying the option is off the table after passage of the parliamentary resolution in support of the government. However, the opposition parties are not looking at the same page. The insiders of the PML-N have initiated a process to move away from the get-Zardari campaign that was supposed to assist in triggering for early elections. However, it?s not really a strong point. All in all, what does this rally fever mean in the present scenario when Senate elections are approaching. In case the government?s parliamentary position looked unsettled, the rallies by opposition parties make sense and help in building pressure on the incumbent to move for fresh polls. Apparently it does not seem reasonable tactic. In the present scenario, where the government appeared to be safe and the key parliamentary opposition calm, rally fever just ends up causing electoral burnout even ahead of ringing bell for the campaign cycle is heard. Possibly some of the parties may want to mull over keeping up their energy for the short but intense race to the end that Pakistani polls have been traditionally instead of plodding along marathon-style when the finish-line in out of prospect. There is a lengthy list of things that are in due prior to the elections. It include solutions for Pakistan?s long-standing economic, security and political problems; developing a realistic health and education policy; figuring out how Pakistan can take positive advantage of its regional position instead of always fending off threats, real and perceived. The county needs a break from all the rallies, as there is plenty of time for that later. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:37:46 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/EpyGQ4zuuYs/ In what appeared to be a response to President Asif Ali Zardari?s speech on December 27, 2011, in which he criticized the judiciary, the Supreme Court Tuesday said it will form a larger bench to hear the Benazir Bhutto assassination case. The apex court also issued notices to Interior Minister Rehman Malik, former law minister, Dr. Babar Awan, PML-Q leader, Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahia, former president Pervez Musharraf and eight others in petition, seeking their replies into the matter. A three-judge bench with Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry in the chair asked Attorney General (AG) Maulvi Anwalul Haq to take directives from the government in this regard. Furthermore, the Chief Justice also ordered the special judge of an anti-terrorism court to submit photocopies of the FIR, reports and records and a synopsis of the development in the case in the next hearing. The apex court was of the opinion that people wanted to know the reality behind Bhutto?s assassination, terming the case of a serious nature. The bench stated that the SC was concerned because President Asif Ali Zardari spoke earlier that the judiciary was not taking the matter sincerely. The CJ remarked, ?Tell us what is happening in the case as president during his Garhi Khuda Bux speech asked us what happened to BB case.? He further said the prime minister and president used to say the court didn?t take up matter. He was of the opinion that Benazir Bhutto was not only a chairperson of a political party instead she was a two-time prime minister of the country. ?Why government is not giving priority to such a serious case? he observed. He said that the court would have taken a suo motu action in the case, but it didn?t, because a petition was filed to the court. Iftikhar Chaudhry, during the hearing, asked the attorney general if he was satisfied with the development of the probe. On which, the AG said that there was no much progress in the case so far, and the investigations were being accomplished. The AG defined three different investigations including the Scotaland Yard, a United Nations Commission and a joint investigation team. To which, the CJ stated that the UN commission?s report was civil in nature, not criminal. He maintained that the government will have to carry out an independent investigation into the matter. Earlier, former protocol officer of Benazir Bhutto, Advocate Chaudhry Aslam filed a petition to the court, asking it that the first FIR submitted in the case did not mention the names of the ?real culprits?. The hearing was put off for two weeks. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:37:08 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/e2ExqeK9_D0/ The federation and Punjab, apart from cooperating each other to reduce the loss of toxic drugs, are giving statements against each other. In the latest move, Punjab has rebuffed the statement of the Prime Minister that Punjab was a hurdle in formation of Drug Regulatory Authority (DRA). Media reports quoted PML-N?s senior leader, Ishaq Dar saying, ?It?s not true that Punjab government is an obstacle to setting up the Authority. The reason behind delay in this Authority is the federal government?s unconstitutional control on Lahore?s Sheikh Zayed Hospital.? Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, on the other day, said Punjab was a hurdle in creation of new regulatory authority. He claimed, ?The Punjab government is an obstacle in establishing a drug regulatory authority (DRA), as the three provinces (Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa) have agreed to the establishment of a DRA.? In the meantime, Punjab rejected the claim terming it counterfactual. The statement of the premier is contrary to facts, a spokesperson of the provincial government quoted. The spokesperson clarified that the factual position was that after passage of the 18th amendment the federal government vides its notification No. 4-9/2011- Min dated 29th June 2011, assigned the functions pertaining to administration of Drug Act 1976 to the proposed Drug Regulatory Agency (DRA). However, the authoritative body was not existed at the time of the issuance of this notification. He was of the opinion that the regulatory authority could only be created after consensus of all the federal units. It was the job of the federation to buildup harmony among the provinces rather than Punjab, he assumed. ?The provincial government, in order to avoid any breach in operations, vide letter No.SO(DC)6-48/2008 dated 4th July and 5th August 2011 asked the federal government to lawfully continue to perform its function under the existing Drug Act 1976 till the said law is adopted by Provincial Assembly of Punjab in terms of article 270-AA(6) of the Constitution,? he added. In his view, it was obvious from the above stated facts that the provincial government was not posing any obstacle in the formation of the DRA. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:58:48 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/JNONmaKCKKI/ Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani rejected the impression that the incumbent was considering giving extension to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) director general (DG), Ahmed Shuja Pasha, in order to normalize civil-military relations. While speaking to the media after his return from World Economic Forum, he observed, ?It?s disinformation that meetings with the military brass prior to my departure for Davos were meant to ease the tensions with them.? Apparently, the civil-military relations are not on same page with the emergence of inglorious memogate scandal which is yet to see its drop-scene. The rumours have twirled that the PPP-led government mulling extending the tenure of top spymaster Ahmed Shuja Pasha who is retiring March 2012. Gilani did not comment on his statement about the affidavits submitted by Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani and Lt. Gen Ahmed Shuja Pasha before the Supreme Court in the controversial memogate scam. The premier stated, ?Things are settling down. I?ve sacked the person who was responsible for the chaos and I don?t want to re-open the much-debated issue as I?ve already clarified the situation.? About early elections, he was of the opinion that consultation would be held with the allied parties if the opposition took up the matter sensibly. He, however, clarified that the polls would be held following the budget for next fiscal year. Gilani asserted, ?It is up to the prime minister to decide whether elections are to be held earlier than scheduled or on time. With the passage of the fifth budget, the election year starts and we are of the view that early elections are likely after the budget.? It is vital to note here that most of the opposition parties, whether inside the parliament or outside, have been calling for early polls. About the 20th amendment, he stated that the incumbent will take all political parties into confidence and try and develop a harmony on the matter. ?In politics, bridges are built, not walls. We want free, fair and transparent elections and a smooth transition will set a tradition for future,? he observed. Replying to a query about issue recent contaminated medicines, he stated that Punjab was hurdle in the creation of new Drug Regulatory Authority as rest of the three provinces had given their approval to the federation in written forms. About resumption of NATO supply route, the premier categorically said that the government would follow whatsoever decision the parliament would take over the matter. The days were gone when a dictator would bow to others on a single telephone call, he remarked. Faisal Farooq NewsPakistan.pk Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:35:36 +0100 http://www.mydigitalslrcameras.org/buying-16gb-supreme-prime-time-acessory-package-for-canon-eos-rebel-t3i-t2i-550d-digital-slr-kit-includes-16gb-high-speed-memory-card-2-extended-life-batteries-rapid-acdc-charger-digital-flash-pr.html Overall Rating: Total Customer Reviews: (0) Sale Price: $169.89 Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Click to View Details package Includes: 16GB Hi Speed Error Free Memory Card Hi Speed Card Reader 2 Extended Life Replacement Canon LP-E8 Batteries Includes 110/220V AC/Dc Rapid Charger 3 Piece Professional filter Kit Includes UV,PL,FLD Close Up Lens Set, Includes +1, +2, and +4+10 filters Hard Flower lens Hood Professional Wide Angle/ Lens With macro Extension Hi Resolution HD 2X Telephoto Lens 67MM-72MM Ring Adapter For 67MM Size Lenses All Lenses includes a carrying case/ Pouch Professional Deluxe carrying case 72 Inch professional tripod professional Digital Camera Flash Flash Diffuser Lens Cleaning Kit, Screen Protectors, Flexible Mini Tripod Exclusive Sunset Electronics Cleaning Cloth professional SLR Hand Strap admin Digital SLR Cameras Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:17:46 +0100 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Newspakistanpk/~3/Ca5AhZfRcwQ/ PM Gilani confident that Army will not overthrow the government Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani expressed that Army wants stability in the country and is in the support of democracy, therefore there is no chance that Army will act outside the constitutional limits and overthrow the government. At the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, PM Gilani said, ?I don?t think there will be a coup in Pakistan ever. There is no threat to democracy.? He further stated that no one in the country including the citizens of Pakistan wish for a military takeover, instead all of them are in the favour of democracy. He proclaimed that currently, Pakistan?s parliament has complete authority and is not threatened by any institution. ?We have a vibrant civil society, free media and an independent judiciary,? he added. He also said that due to the current situation of Pak-US ties after the Nato attack on November 26, which killed 24 Pakistani soldiers, the international media was strongly interested in the changes taking place in Islamabad. Nevertheless, the Prime Minister stressed that Nato attack was a ?turning point?, which damaged the relationship between both countries. He said it was the Nato bombing, after which Pakistan?s Defence Committee decided to re-evaluate the terms of Pak-US ties and for a start, Nato supplies were blocked. After that, we asked for the evacuation of Shamsi air base and boycotted the Bonn Conference in Afghanistan. ?In the light of recent events, we are reviewing our relations to build a long-term relationship on the basis of mutual respect, trust and interest,? Gilani said. While responding to a question, PM Gilani told that former President Musharraf acted without earning the confidence of people. ?If there is no support of the public no one can win a war,? he added. In response to another question, Gilani told that Pakistan has paid a huge price for the peace and prosperity and was always against the ?illegal and counter-productive? drone attacks. He also said that Pakistan had always passed its concerns over the drone attacks to the United States. While referring to a question relating to the presence of Osama Bin Ladin in Pakistan, Gilani called it a worldwide failure of international agencies. Mursil Mehmood Butt NewsPakistan.pk Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:05:37 +0100