| This monitor is meant to identify key developments during the month of October in the quality of governance in Pakistan. In this issue:
- October Earthquake Highlights Weaknesses in Disaster Preparedness
- PM Nawaz Sharif Holds 2-Hour Summit with President Barack Obama
- Federal Government Secures Funding for K-Electric
- Pakistan and Russia Sign Accord for LNG Pipeline
- ADB Loan of US $178 Million for Motorway
- Muharram Attacks: 26 Dead in Sindh and 10 in Balochistan
- Lack of Federal-Provincial Harmony Impedes Approval of 3-Year Polio Eradication Plan
- Corruption Investigations and Arrests
- KP Launches Performance Management Cell Website
- Monitoring of International Non-Governmental Organizations
- Mina Stampede Tragedy: Delay in News About Pakistani Victims
- Model Town Case: ATC Indicts 41 PAT Workers
- Kissan Package Restored by Islamabad High Court
- Government of Punjab to Acquire Commercially Untested Gas Turbines
- PILDAT�s Public Opinion Poll on Quality of Governance
October Earthquake Highlights Weaknesses in Disaster Preparedness
[Disaster Preparedness and Management]
A man in Chitral salvages what he can from his destroyed house after the earthquake on October 26 in preparation for winter. (Photo: Anjum Naveed/AP)
An earthquake of 7.5 magnitude hit major areas of Pakistan on October 26, leaving Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the worst affected Province.1 The Prime Minister established a crisis cell to coordinate with all agencies2 and instructed authorities to not accept foreign aid.3 Health departments across Pakistan were directed to be on high alert.4
While the National Disaster Management Authority�s (NDMA) initial efforts to assess damage5 have been significant, relief activities are still lacking.6 The presence of poor infrastructure hindered efforts in the remote regions in particular. According to reports, there was also a lack of effective coordination due to an absence of clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) for disaster management.7 In particular, Chitral, had not received sufficient relief amenities.8 Where the Government�s efforts fell short, the Army and Frontier Corps,9 along with at least one non-governmental organization filled the gap10 with regards to recue and relief.
Even in November, the total damage assessment in the Malakand and Hazara divisions had not been completed11 and many earthquake victims had yet to be compensated12 or even receive relief.13
Relief efforts often focus on providing goods to the affected at the cost of logistical management for the most badly affected and hard to reach areas. PILDAT believes that the continued difficulty in reaching the most remote earthquake-affected areas demonstrates a lack of preparedness on the part of the Federal and KP Governments, especially considering Pakistan�s high risk of earthquakes.14 The Governments should, therefore, focus on establishing effective SOPs.
PM Nawaz Sharif Holds 2-Hour Summit with President Barack Obama
[Foreign Policy Management]
October 22, 2015: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Barack Obama meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC. (Photo: WashingtonTimes.com)
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif met with President Barack Obama in a two-hour long summit at the White House.15 Both Premiers agreed to act against all terrorist groups, with Mr. Sharif expressing Pakistan�s particular resolve in the matter. The Leaders also discussed non-proliferation due to the threat of nuclear terrorism, while Mr. Sharif brought attention to the recent incidents of violence on the Line of Control. Additionally, US First Lady Michelle Obama met with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif�s wife, Mrs. Kalsoom Nawaz Sharif, and daughter, Ms. Maryam Nawaz Sharif and announced a US $70 million contribution to educate adolescent girls in Pakistan.16
The meeting between Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Barack Obama clearly indicates the two nations� continued support for mutual security. However, it is important to note that Washington�s official stance on terrorism in Pakistan now mirrors that of Delhi�s. India recently rejected Pakistan�s calls for peace talks stating that Pakistan must first suppress terrorist groups within its borders.17 During the October 22 summit, The US and Pakistani leaders agreed that �the stability of South Asia depended on cooperation among all neighbors� to eliminate terrorist groups in the region, effectively establishing that Pakistan must do more to curb terrorist groups within its borders.18
Another important fact is Pakistan�s recent announcement of its newly developed tactical nuclear weapons against India�s �cold-start� strategy.19 When viewed in the context of the Sharif-Obama summit, it is clear that Pakistan, while willing to avoid escalation, has highlighted the violence on the Line of Control to communicate to the US its robust nuclear response capability. Based on this, Pakistan�s stance is clear: it is willing to act against terrorist outfits but it will take all necessary steps to maintain its sovereignty.
Lastly, Ms. Maryam Nawaz Sharif�s participation in the Pakistani delegation also signals an important development. According to reports, the First Lady of the United States specifically requested her presence,20 indicating what could be considered her formal introduction in politics.
Federal Government Secures Funding for K-Electric
[Electricity Production and Management]
Through an agreement signed between K-Electric and the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the Federal Government has secured US $250 million to be financed over a 10-year period. K-Electric will use this loan to upgrade its power grid in order to improve the stability and efficiency of its system and to increase its transmission capacity.21
K-Electric�s performance has been problematic in recent months, the most egregious example of which was the organization�s failure to provide electricity during Karachi�s heat wave in June 2015.22 The Federal Government�s efforts to upgrade K-Electric�s system is, therefore, a much needed step in the right direction.
Pakistan and Russia Sign Accord for LNG Pipeline
[Investment Friendliness]
Pakistan and Russia have struck a government-to-government deal regarding a North-South Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) pipeline, which will transport 12.4 billion cubic meters of imported LNG from Karachi to Lahore. It will cost US $2.5 billion, with Russia providing 85% of the equity. The Russian State Corportaion will own and operate the pipeline for 25 years to recover its investment and then transfer it to a Pakistani entity.
This deal signals a good development in Pakistan�s effort to diversify its friendly foreign relations, especially with regards to trade. Furthermore, as Russia is among the largest producers of natural gas, this project can potentially lead to deeper economic relations with Pakistan, with Russia exporting its gas to Pakistan.
ADB Loan of US $178 Million for Motorway
[Public Transport]
A US $178 million loan agreement was signed between Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADP). The loan also includes a grant of US $90.77 million from the United Kingdom�s Department for International Development (DFID). The funds are to be used for constructing a four-lane section of the motorway which will provide central Punjab a direct connection to Karachi and Gwadar. This is expected to create new opportunities for people from Punjab by enabling faster access to bigger markets. The project is expected to be complete by November 2019.23
The Federal Government�s sensitivity to more job creation through a focus on increased trade within Pakistan is encouraging to note. However, the project�s effectiveness at delivering the benefits of this trade outside of Punjab remains unclear. The Federal Government should, at all times, be aware of the most important needs of all the Provinces and collaborate with Provincial Governments on projects to fulfill them. The Government should also make an effort to leverage its relationships with foreign institutions to develop deeper connections between them and Provincial Governments.
Muharram Attacks: 26 Dead in Sindh and 10 in Balochistan
[Public Transport]
Despite the comprehensive Muharram security arrangements cross Pakistan,24 attacks took place in Sindh and Balochistan. A suicide blast in Jacobabad, Sindh took 26 lives,25 after which the city�s security was handed over to the Army.26 Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah announced compensation for victims and suspended two people, pending an inquiry into negligence. Investigations by the police�s Counter Terrorism Department have led to the collection of fingerprints for identification27 while two persons have been detained for interrogation on suspicion of involvement.
Another attack took place at an Imambargah in the Goth Chalghari area in Balochistan killing 10 people. Security was increased in the area after the attack and Chief Minister Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch ordered a review of the security plan for Muharram.28
While, the measures taken by the Federal and Provincial Governments demonstrate that peace during the month of Muharram was considered a high priority,24 the attacks are a clear indication of major gaps. The Provincial Governments of Sindh and Balochistan should be cognizant of troubled areas in their respective provinces and arrange for their security rather than only focusing on major cities. The Governments should also conduct an inquiry into the attacks in order to determine the exact nature of the lapses.
Lack of Federal-Provincial Harmony Impedes Approval of 3-Year Polio Eradication Plan
[Immunization of Children]
The Federal Government has yet to approve a three-year polio eradication plan from 2016-2018. A total of US $311 million is needed by Provincial Health Departments to fund the efforts, reportedly. The Federal Government only needs to pay US $100 million and the rest will be sought from international donor agencies. These agencies are unwilling to provide the funding, because the PC-1 for the program has not been approved, which has been delayed for unknown reasons.29
Polio eradication is currently the top health priority for Pakistan. This development, therefore, is a cause for concern as the Federal Government is not effectively taking ownership of the plan, which makes the future of immunization uncertain. It is PILDAT�s view that this is a significant gap in governance. The Federal Government should take a more proactive role in approving the PC-1 so all Provincial Health Departments can negotiate terms with international donors for funding.
Corruption Investigations and Arrests
[Anti-Corruption Efforts]
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Pakistan Rangers have made a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) and turned their attention towards the Energy Sector. The JIT has asked the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and financial institutions to provide details for 15 people in Karachi. The investigation is in response to the NAB�s arrests of Former Minister for Petroleum, Dr. Asim Hussain.30
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested and established a case against Naved Alam Zuberi, a senior manager of Pakistan State Oil, after an internal audit report established evidence against him.31 These efforts by the Federal Government to curb corruption are encouraging. However, it is PILDAT�s reasoned opinion that the concerned agencies should also focus on corruption within the highest echelons of Governments, both Provincial and Federal.
KP Launches Performance Management Cell Website
[Use of Technologies for Better Governance]
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government debuted the online portal for its Performance Management Cell (PMC) in the Office of the Chief Secretary. The portal is intended to facilitate the Government�s goals of delivering effective and efficient service to citizens and greater transparency through quantified performance management.32
In a meeting of a delegation of PILDAT representatives with those of the Chief Secretary Office (CSO) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), a detailed overview was provided of the CSO�s efforts in in developing a web portal. The launch of PMC portal, along with the earlier launch of the District Performance Management Cell portal, are clear indications of the KP Government�s drive to make its performance open to public scrutiny. These websites are also a very significant step towards the incorporation of technology for better governance and must be used as a model by all other Provincial Governments in Pakistan.
Monitoring of International Non-Governmental Organizations
[Transparency]
The Federal Government has announced a mechanism to regulate the activities of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) in Pakistan. The mechanism is the first policy of its kind on the national level and is expected to regulate the registration, working, funding and overall monitoring of all INGOs through an INGO committee.33
This policy is a considerable step towards maintaining transparency in the non-profit sector in Pakistan. The Government has not only used an innovative technology-based solution, but has also introduced a new method to curb potential terror financing in Pakistan. The real test of the Government will be in the implementation of the new regulations, strictly on merit, and the capacity-building of the concerned departments and government officials in the discharge of their duties in a highly professional manner without any unfair practices.
Mina Stampede Tragedy: Delay in News About Pakistani Victims
[Foreign Policy]
After the stampede in Mina, Saudi Arabia during the annual Hajj pilgrimage,34 the Federal Government announced an aid package35 for the affected Pakistanis. However, the fate of 28 Pakistani pilgrims remained unknown even after several weeks.36 The Government is reportedly waiting for information from the Saudi government. However, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf informed the Senate that 99 Pakistanis perished and 70 of them were buried in Saudi Arabia. Members of the opposition parties have expressed dissatisfaction over the Government�s supposed ineffectiveness in the matter and boycotted Senate proceedings.37
PILDAT believes the Government should take a more proactive role in safeguarding the interests of its citizens outside of Pakistan. Given the Pakistan�s friendly relations with Saudi Arabia, it is PILDAT�s belief that two countries should have clearer lines of communication.
Model Town Case: ATC Indicts 41 PAT Workers
[Peace, Stability & Order]
Since the deaths of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) worker in Model Town in June 2014, First Incident Reports (FIR) were filed against Prime Minister Mr. Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab, Mr. Shahbaz Sharif, along with 19 other members of the PML-N establishment. Recently an anti-terrorism court has indicted 41 workers of PAT and five police officials. The court has named Dr. Tahirul Qadri and his sons among the accused.37 In contrast, to date, Mr. Shahbaz Sharif has only recorded a statement in front of a JIT38 that he helped constitute.39
Kissan Package Restored by Islamabad High Court
[Agricultural Development]
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had halted certain aspects of the Federal Government�s Kissan Relief Package (KRP).40 However, the Federal Government filed a petition against the decision and a division bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) restored the KRP.41
According to Additional Attorney General Mohammad Waqar Rana, the IHC verdict has allowed the government to resume with the implementation of three components of the package.
Government of Punjab to Acquire Commercially Untested Gas Turbines
[Electricity Production and Management]
The Government of Punjab is acquiring gas turbines for a re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) power plant at Bhikki, near Sheikhupura, Punjab. However, these turbines, from the US manufacturer General Electric (GE), have not been commercially tested.42 Spokesman for the Prime Minister, Mr. Musadaik Malik, conceded the risk but stated that competing bidders were unable to contradict the efficiency claims of GE for the turbines.
Additionally, CEO of the Bhikki plant�s parent company, Mr. Ahad Cheema, stated that these turbines were developed three years ago and have been �extensively tested in the harshest site conditions simulated in the $300m lab created by GE.�43 The Government has also stated that warranties and guarantees have been sought to offset potential risks.
The Government of the Punjab�s attempts towards innovative solutions to the energy crisis are commendable. However, given the outcomes of the Nandipur Project, it would be prudent for caution to be exercised.44 It should also be noted that, according to Mr. Cheema, competing manufacturers do not have a lab similar to the one that GE used to test the gas turbines.45 GE�s efficiency claims may, therefore, have a potential conflict of interest. The Government should invite independent technical vetting of the claims made by GE.
PILDAT�s Public Opinion Poll on Quality of Governance
PILDAT released its annual nationwide Public Opinion Poll on Quality of Governance, the second of its two-part survey, the first being Quality of Democracy.47
As per the Poll�s findings, the Provincial Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has the most positive public perception in Governance, as it received positive Approval Ratings in 18 out of 28 Governance Indicators.47 Despite this lead in positive Approval Ratings, a majority of respondents from all over Pakistan rated overall Governance in Punjab (76%) better than in KP (38% respondents), Sindh (30% respondents) and Balochistan (28% respondents).
Based on the findings of the Poll, it is clear that the KP Government has been able to convince its citizens that significant Governance issues have been resolved, a commendable feat considering the Province�s political history. A strong system-oriented approach to Governance has also helped dispel the notion that Punjab is the only Province where Governance is effective. However, it should also be noted that outside of KP, Pakistanis on overage are less sure of the PTI leadership�s Governance credentials.
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