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World Cup exit sparks row in Pak cricket: Amir blasts PCB over fine on players
SportYahooTimes of India14h ago2 sources

World Cup exit sparks row in Pak cricket: Amir blasts PCB over fine on players

Mohammad Amir has criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board's reported PKR 50 lakh fine on players after their T20 World Cup exit. He argued that selectors and administrators should also be held accountable for poor team selections and performance, suggesting dropping underperforming players instead of fining them.

Khawaja Asif tops speaking time in NA’s second year
PoliticsDawn16h ago

Khawaja Asif tops speaking time in NA’s second year

• Pildat survey shows Omar Ayub, Bilawal, Tariq Fazal and Barrister Gohar among top five speakers; PM Shehbaz attended just six of 84 sittings • 27th Amendment, Elections Bill among 59 passed; ordinances declined to eight from 16, indicating reduced executive reliance • Average budget per sitting rose to Rs193.93m, up from Rs136.96m ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Mu­­hammad Asif was the most vocal MNA during the second parliamentary year of the 16th Nat­ional Assembly, speaking for five ...

Tinubu renews NSCDC CG tenure for another five years
Politicsvanguard-ng4d ago

Tinubu renews NSCDC CG tenure for another five years

Dr Audi was first appointed to the position in 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. His initial five-year term ended last Friday as he participated in activities commemorating the 2026 World Civil Defence Day at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. The post Tinubu renews NSCDC CG tenure for another five years appeared first on Vanguard News.

Daily Quiz | On Muhammad Ali
Sporthindu7d ago

Daily Quiz | On Muhammad Ali

On Feb. 25, 1964, Muhammad Ali won the world heavyweight boxing title for the first time. A quiz on the beloved champion.

Unidentified attackers blow up school in South Waziristan, no casualties reported
WorldDawn8d ago

Unidentified attackers blow up school in South Waziristan, no casualties reported

PESHAWAR: Unidentified attackers blew up a school in the Birmal tehsil of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan in the late hours of Monday, the police said on Tuesday. According to District Police Officer (DPO) South Waziristan Lower Muhammad Tahir Shah Wazir, the explosion destroyed parts of the Government Middle School (GMS) Boys’ Sharif Khan Kot, including two classrooms, bathrooms, the main gate, and one side of the boundary wall. Initial reports confirmed no casualties were reported. Th...

'He would have fetched at least 20 cr': Ex-India cricketer bold remark for star fast bowler
SportTimes of India12d ago

'He would have fetched at least 20 cr': Ex-India cricketer bold remark for star fast bowler

Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif stated Blessing Muzarabani's current form could have secured him bids exceeding ₹20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. Kaif suggested the auction timing was unfortunate for the Zimbabwean bowler. Muzarabani's impressive performance in the T20 World Cup, including key wickets against Australia and Sri Lanka, highlighted his potential.

Experts say carbon monoxide likely cause of Plateau miners’ deaths
EnvironmentPremium Times13d ago

Experts say carbon monoxide likely cause of Plateau miners’ deaths

Muhammad Abdullahi of the Anthony Nyong Climate Centre of Excellence, University of Jos, and Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Meteorological Society, said the gas is commonly found in poorly ventilated underground sites. The post Experts say carbon monoxide likely cause of Plateau miners’ deaths appeared first on Premium Times Nigeria.

'We had to wash dishes ...': Pakistan hockey captain lashes out at PHF
SportTimes of India14d ago

'We had to wash dishes ...': Pakistan hockey captain lashes out at PHF

Pakistan's hockey captain, Shakeel Ammad Butt, has fiercely criticised the Pakistan Hockey Federation following a disastrous tour of Australia. Players endured severe accommodation issues, including being forced to wash dishes before matches, and faced significant delays and unconfirmed bookings. Butt stated the team's performance was negatively impacted by these embarrassing circumstances.

Pre-arrest bail of Imran extended in five cases
PoliticsDawn14d ago

Pre-arrest bail of Imran extended in five cases

ISLAMABAD: A distri­­ct and sessions court on Tu­­esday directed the prosecution to ensure appearance of former prime minister Imran Khan at the next hearing either in person or through a video link, while extending his pre-arrest bail in five ca­­s­es, including the attem­p­ted murder of ex-minister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha. Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka restrained police from arresting the PTI founder in the said cases and also extended the pre-arrest bail of Bushra Bibi in one related matter. The hearing was adjourned till Feb 18. During the proceedings, the PTI founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were represented by their legal team. However, despite earlier directions, the former prime minister could not be produced before the court through a video link. Owing to his absence and the unavailability of his counsel, Barrister Salman Safdar, arguments on the acquittal application could not be advanced. The court subsequently directed that the PTI fou­nder must appear at the next hearing either personally or via video link. The cases against the PTI founder stem from the May 9 incidents and incl­ude charges of attempted murder, submission of fake receipts and other offences. A separate case has also been registered against Bushra Bibi for allegedly submitting fake receipts. Also, Additional Distr­ict and Sessions Judge Amir Zia extended the interim bail of Bushra Bibi in a case related to the November 26 protest. Meanwhile, ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra deferred indictment proceedings in the Sangjani Jalsa case due to the non-appearance of the accused PTI lawmakers. Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2026

Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus resigns, handing power to elected government
PoliticsFrance 24Daily SabahDaily Star BD16d ago3 sources

Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus resigns, handing power to elected government

Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus stepped down on Monday before handing over to an elected government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its leader Tarique Rahman. Bangladeshi voters held national elections and endorsed sweeping democratic reforms via referendum in February following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina and her iron-fisted government.

AGF takes over Malami’s trial, to review DSS case file
Politicsvanguard-ng9h ago

AGF takes over Malami’s trial, to review DSS case file

Malami, who served as Justice Minister from November 11, 2015, to May 29, 2023, under former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, faces a five-count charge bordering on terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms. The post AGF takes over Malami’s trial, to review DSS case file appeared first on Vanguard News.

J&K's Poonch observes complete shutdown to mourn killing of Khamenei; security on alert
PoliticshinduTimes of Indiabalkan-web1d ago3 sources

J&K's Poonch observes complete shutdown to mourn killing of Khamenei; security on alert

Poonch observed a complete shutdown as the Shia Muslim community mourned Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and protested against the US and Israel. Security forces were on high alert across the district. Similar demonstrations occurred in Srinagar, with protesters condemning alleged US and Israel-led strikes. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

Pakistan’s stocks of petroleum products at ‘comfortable levels’, committee told
BusinessDawn2d ago

Pakistan’s stocks of petroleum products at ‘comfortable levels’, committee told

A high-level committee formed to monitor petrol prices in the aftermath of heightened tensions in the Middle East was informed on Monday that national stocks of petroleum products were currently at “comfortable levels”. In a post on X, the finance ministry said the committee was formed a day earlier by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It said that the committee met on Monday under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurganzeb. During the meeting, the committ...

Malaysians cheer as US drops ‘alpha male’ ambassador pick Nick Adams
PoliticsSCMP7d ago

Malaysians cheer as US drops ‘alpha male’ ambassador pick Nick Adams

The news rippled through Malaysian social media with something close to glee. Nick Adams, the Australian-born, self-described “alpha male” whom US President Donald Trump had nominated as ambassador to Kuala Lumpur, was not coming after all. “They do listen sometimes,” said Muhammad Izuan Ahmad Kasim, a youth leader from the People’s Justice Party who had been among the dozens who marched to the US embassy last July demanding Washington reconsider the appointment. Adams himself offered a very...

Sindh govt reinstates DIG Pir Muhammad Shah as chief of Karachi Traffic Police
PoliticsDawn11d ago

Sindh govt reinstates DIG Pir Muhammad Shah as chief of Karachi Traffic Police

The Sindh government reinstated Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Pir Muhammad Shah as the chief of the Karachi Traffic Police, it emerged on Saturday. According to a notification issued by the provincial government on Friday, Shah’s posting relieves Sindh’s Central Police Office Headquarters DIG Mazhar Nawaz Shaikh of his additional charge “with immediate effect”. “Syed Pir Muhammad Shah … is posted as Deputy Inspector General of Police, Traffic, Karachi, relieving Mr. Mazhar Nawaz Shaikh,...

'Free ke paise le raha hai kya?' Pak coach under fire after loss against India
SportTimes of India12d ago

'Free ke paise le raha hai kya?' Pak coach under fire after loss against India

Despite reaching the Super 8s, Pakistan faces criticism for tactical blunders. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif questioned head coach Mike Hesson's decisions, particularly fielding first against India on a slow pitch. Kaif highlighted questionable bowling changes and spinner usage, suggesting Hesson's extensive coaching experience wasn't evident in these crucial moments.

Pakistan Hockey Federation president resigns, blames sports board for Pro League mismanagement
SportDawn13d ago

Pakistan Hockey Federation president resigns, blames sports board for Pro League mismanagement

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) president Tariq Hussain Bugti announced his resignation on Thursday, citing mismanagement by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) in handling funds for international tournaments, particularly the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Pro League. He stated that his resignation has already been submitted to the prime minister. Blaming the sports board for the crisis, he said funds allocated for the Pro League were released to the PSB but were not managed properly, resulting in logistical problems during tours of Argentina and Australia. Bugti maintained that the federation had shared schedules of the tours in advance and that financial control rested with the PSB. “After seven years, Pakistan hockey finally got a chance to play in the Pro League, but due to lack of funds, we struggled to meet obligations,” he said, adding that he personally paid $3,720 to clear outstanding hotel dues in Argentina. He also called for an independent inquiry, stating that the committee formed by the PSB had acted as “judge and jury”. Referring to internal matters, he alleged that the team captain had pressured players by showing them messages from influential figures, after which the federation imposed a two-year ban on Ammad Shakeel Butt.

Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee to meet in Peshawar today for Ramazan moon sighting
CultureThe GuardianThe IndependentDawn+1Daily Sabah14d ago4 sources

Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee to meet in Peshawar today for Ramazan moon sighting

The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee will meet today (Wednesday) in Peshawar to sight the Ramazan moon. The committee chairman, Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, will preside over the meeting. The zonal and district Ruet-i-Hilal Committees in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and other cities will also gather to sight the new moon. Earlier this month, based on the moon’s expected age, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) predicted that the first day of Ramazan was “likely to fall” on February 19. However, Suparco said the final announcement regarding the beginning of the holy month would be made by the Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, “which is the sole competent authority, based on credible witness testimonies from across the country”. Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Afghanistan observed their first day of fasting on Wednesday after the Ramazan moon was sighted on Tuesday night. It is worth mentioning that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a Rs38 billion Ramazan Relief Package for 12.1 million deserving families across the four provinces as well as Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). “Every deserving family will receive Rs13,000 through a digital wallet or bank transfer, without discrimination based on party affiliation or point of view,” he said.

PHF, PSB trade blame after Pro League mismanagement
SportDawn14d ago

PHF, PSB trade blame after Pro League mismanagement

LAHORE: The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) have traded blame over alleged mismanagement during the national hockey team’s participation in the second leg of the FIH Pro League in Hobart, Australia, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take notice and order an immediate inquiry. The Green Shirts returned to Lahore late Tuesday night after suffering defeats in all their matches against Germany and hosts Australia, concluding a winless campaign across both legs of the competition. Media reports highlighted serious lapses in arrangements, particularly inadequate and delayed accommodation in Hobart, which left players discontented and affected their preparation. PHF president Tariq Hussain Bugti, speaking to Dawn, said the responsibility for all logistical and financial arrangements — including hotel bookings, air travel, TA/DA and visas — rested with the PSB. He cited directives from the senate standing committee on sports, which had designated the PSB as the body to handle financial matters for the team’s FIH Pro League participation. “The PHF has accepted the senate committee’s ruling and is not interfering in these affairs,” Bugti said. “Our priority remains ensuring the national team’s participation in this important competition, which provides valuable exposure against top-ranked teams.” A PSB official, Rana Nasrullah, countered that the team management had sufficient funds at its disposal, with players also carrying USD 1,650 each. “If funds were available, why was the hotel arrangement mismanaged? There was also no proper cooking system, forcing players to prepare their own meals,” he said. When queried about food-related issues, Bugti noted that the squad was en route home and a detailed report would be available upon their arrival in Lahore. Both the PHF president and the PSB welcomed the prime minister’s directive for a probe. Federal sports minister Rana Sanaullah has constituted an inquiry committee to investigate the matter. “It is a positive step, and the PHF will present its position before the committee,” Bugti added. Separately, sources indicated that accommodation payments of USD 3,750 from the first leg in Argentina remain pending. It is relevant to note that, amid past allegations of financial irregularities against the PHF, the prime minister had released Rs250 million to secure Pakistan’s participation in the Pro League, with the PSB appointed as custodian of financial affairs. Reports also suggest the PSB had booked the hotel but payment issues arose. A PHF official, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed the PSB provided a cheque of Rs10 million to the team management for accommodation upon arrival. However, hotel rates had increased by then, leading to limited bookings — including a guest house — and shared or substandard rooms, leaving players dissatisfied with both lodging and food. Sources added that players may address a press conference in Lahore to clarify the situation. Pakistan captain Emmad Butt, in a video statement, had earlier refuted claims that the team was left without any hotel accommodation or forced onto the streets. Players have also expressed discomfort over their daily TA/DA allowance of USD 40 from the PSB, which falls short of the USD 100 stipulated in PHF regulations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office issued a statement: “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken notice of the mismanagement in hockey affairs reported in the media, and enquiries are being conducted. Immediate action will be taken against those found responsible.” Following the notice, Sanaullah expressed grave concern, stating that the PHF’s actions had tarnished the country’s and the sport’s reputation. “Such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against those responsible for mismanagement and bringing disrepute to the sport,” he warned. While the minister has initiated the inquiry, no specific names of committee members have been announced. Observers have noted that an inquiry conducted solely by PSB or ministry officials may lack full independence, and a neutral body would better serve impartiality. Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2026

Serial killer held for slaying four
WorldDawn15d ago

Serial killer held for slaying four

GUJRAT: The Gujranwala police on Monday arrested a ‘serial killer’ involved in kidnapping and killing of four people, including a woman and her two children as well as a 13 years old boy after snatching valuables from them in different hits. Gujranwala CPO Dr Ghias Gul told reporters at a news conference on Monday that police found two unidentified bodies of a 32 years old woman and her five years old son along the bank of canal near the Citi Housing Society on Feb 10. Both the deceased, he said, had been slain with a sharp-edged weapon. They were later identified as Malaika and her son Muhammad Ahmed and a case of double murder was lodged on the report of a police official. The CPO said a special investigation team under SP Civil Lines Imran Khan and DSP Hameed Virk was constituted that used modern techniques and traced a suspect namely Haroon Javed who was nabbed while making an attempt to flee to Karachi from Lahore via train. The suspect, he said, had confessed to have killed the woman and her two children – eight months old daughter Mubara through asphyxiation and threw her body into the canal. The body of deceased girl was recovered from the canal on the identification of the suspect. The suspect revealed that he had killed three people of a family just to snatch gold ornaments the woman was wearing in her ears. The suspect belongs to the same area of Alam Chowk where the deceased woman resided. The CPO said that the suspect had also revealed to have killed 13 years old boy Rehan Ali of Mado Khalil locality in the precincts of Ladhewala police on Dec 20 last. The suspect, he said, had kidnapped the boy to snatch a bridal dress from him and later murdered him. The boy had been sent by his father to deliver the dress to a customer in a nearby vicinity. A case of kidnapping of that boy had been lodged with the police against the unidentified suspects on the report of his father Muhammad Imran who ran an embroidery factory in the area. The CPO commended the police team for tracing and arresting the killer. Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2026

'India would've been knocked out': Ex-Pakistan star sparks controversy after India's semifinal entry
SportYahooTimes of India1d ago2 sources

'India would've been knocked out': Ex-Pakistan star sparks controversy after India's semifinal entry

Mohammad Amir faced criticism after his prediction that India wouldn't reach the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals proved incorrect. Despite India's win, Amir highlighted a controversial dismissal of Shimron Hetmyer, believing it could have altered the match's outcome. He also questioned India's overall performance, citing fielding errors and reliance on Jasprit Bumrah.

IHC restores journalist Sohrab Barkat’s bail in cybercrime case
PoliticsDawn2d ago

IHC restores journalist Sohrab Barkat’s bail in cybercrime case

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday restored the bail of journalist Sohrab Barkat in the last remaining case registered against him by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), setting aside a trial court’s order that had cancelled his post-arrest bail. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition filed by Barkat challenging a decision by the trial court revoking his bail. After hearing arguments, the IHC nullified the impugned order and directed the authoritie...

'It is a proud moment': PM Modi celebrates J&K's maiden Ranji triumph
SportTimes of India4d ago

'It is a proud moment': PM Modi celebrates J&K's maiden Ranji triumph

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on their maiden Ranji Trophy win, calling it a proud moment for the region. Cricket legends including Sachin Tendulkar, Jay Shah, Mohammad Kaif, Irfan Pathan, Aakash Chopra, Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina praised the team’s grit, belief and historic achievement.

Friday Sermon: The participation of Islamic scholars (Ulama’) in politics!, By Murtadha Gusau
PoliticsPremium Times5d ago

Friday Sermon: The participation of Islamic scholars (Ulama’) in politics!, By Murtadha Gusau

In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy All praise be to Allah, who bestowed His grace upon the Muslim believers by sending to them Muhammad (Peace be upon him), the truthful and trustworthy Prophet, endowed with great character. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah, […] The post Friday Sermon: The participation of Islamic scholars (Ulama’) in politics!, By Murtadha Gusau appeared first on Premium Times Nigeria.

Iran's regime sentences protesters to death
Politicsle-monde7d ago

Iran's regime sentences protesters to death

Mohammad-Amin Biglari, 19, is one of seven young Iranians sentenced to death after the January protests, while thousands of others were arrested. The crackdown, with its summary trials, forced confessions and inhumane prison conditions, has illustrated both the scale and brutality of the regime's control.

Police constable martyred as unidentified assailants open fire in Wana
WorldDawn8d ago

Police constable martyred as unidentified assailants open fire in Wana

LOWER SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: A police constable was martyred after unidentified armed men opened fire in the Wana tehsil of Lower South Waziristan district, officials said on Tuesday. According to District Police Officer (DPO) Mohammad Tahir, the attackers carried out a sudden assault in Mughal Khel village, leaving a constable, identified as Attaullah, critically wounded. He succumbed to his injuries on the spot. His body was taken to the district headquarters hospital (DHQ) in Wana for legal for...

'Will not allow Pakistan's dignity to be compromised': Mohsin Naqvi steps in after hockey fiasco
SportYahoo11d ago

'Will not allow Pakistan's dignity to be compromised': Mohsin Naqvi steps in after hockey fiasco

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi backed Pakistan hockey players after they accused the PHF of abandoning them during the Australia tour. Players said they had no hotel and had to cook and clean themselves, sparking outrage. Naqvi promised full support, financial aid, and help with training, while captain Ammad Shakeel Butt’s suspension is set to be reversed. The incident exposed serious mismanagement in Pakistan hockey.

Pak hockey in turmoil: Federation bans captain, then revokes after PHF chief resigns
SportTimes of India12d ago

Pak hockey in turmoil: Federation bans captain, then revokes after PHF chief resigns

Pakistan's government has overturned a two-year ban on national hockey captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, deeming the action by the former PHF president "illegal and unconstitutional." The ban followed Butt's criticism of federation mismanagement during a disastrous Australia tour, where players faced poor accommodation and unpaid allowances. The Prime Minister's appointee reversed the ban, aiming to repair damage to Pakistan hockey.

'India won't make it to semi-finals': Former Pakistan pacer's shocking take
SportTimes of India12d ago

'India won't make it to semi-finals': Former Pakistan pacer's shocking take

Former Pakistan bowler Mohammad Amir has made bold predictions for the T20 World Cup 2026. He believes India will not advance to the semi-finals. Amir points to India's batting collapses in recent matches. He suggests teams like South Africa and the West Indies can exploit these weaknesses. India faces South Africa in their Super 8 opener.

Hockey turmoil deepens after PHF chief steps down
BusinessDawn12d ago

Hockey turmoil deepens after PHF chief steps down

(LEFT) PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti announces his resignation; while, PCB Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi meets players from the national team.—Dawn • PM accepts Tariq Bugti’s resignation, Wani named interim president • Outgoing chief imposes two-year ban on captain Ammad Butt before quitting • PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi meets players, hands ‘compensation’ cheques • PSB blames PHF for mismanagement; Bugti alleges board delayed payments • Shake-up follows Australia tour fiasco, when players were left without hotel upon arrival LAHORE / ISLAMABAD: Amid a deepening crisis in Pakistan hockey, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday accepted the resignation of Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Hussain Bugti and appointed Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Federal Secretary Mohiy­uddin Ahmed Wani as ad-hoc president of the federation. The premier also accepted the resignations of PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid and Treasurer Shahid Pervaiz Bhandara. Their replacements had not been announced until late Thursday night. The developments came amid controversy over the national team’s tour of Australia for the FIH Pro League, where accommodation arrangements could not be secured on time, forcing players to spend several hours on the road. The team’s overall performance in the Pro League also came under criticism. In addition, PHF elections had been facing delays. Mr Bugti had been appointed by interim prime minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar to hold elections but did not complete the process during his tenure. Similarly, in his tenure, Mr Bugti-led PHF was accused of inaction over alleged corruption, pointed out by the Auditor General of Pakistan. There are more than 100 audit paras related to the PHF, and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been probing the matter for over a year. Speaking after his appointment, Mr Wani said the governance mechanism of the PHF would be improved. “In the next six weeks, we will prepare a business plan for the PHF and take steps to run this federation on professional grounds,” he said. He added that IPC would form a working group with all sports boards and education bodies to focus on grassroots development and that international trainers and coaches would also be engaged. “There is no shortage of resources, but the PHF is facing financial management issues. We will work on this,” he said, adding that he would ensure free, fair and transparent elections. “Hockey, being the national game, is close to our hearts and we will take every possible step to bring positive change,” he said. National captain ‘banned’ Earlier on Thursday, before the prime minister’s decision, Mr Bugti announced his resignation, but not before imposing a two-year ban on national captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, citing findings of a committee regarding alleged misconduct. “I received a message (from a certain quarter) and I am resigning from the post as it is not a big issue. Had the prime minister asked me six months earlier, I would have left,” Mr Bugti said, appealing to the prime minister and Field Marshal Asim Munir to constitute an independent committee to probe the entire episode. He said he was ready to face any punishment if found responsible. However, shortly after Mr Bugti’s resignation, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the hockey players, including Ammad Butt and Hanan Shahid. In a message on X, Mr Naqvi said: “I am not becoming Hockey Federation President but we will assist players till this turmoil ends.” Talking to the media after the meeting, Mr Butt said Mr Naqvi directed that a training camp be set up in Lahore from Friday for the World Cup qualifiers to be held in Egypt and that immediate steps be taken to hire foreign coaches. Mr Butt said former Pakistan coach Roelant Oltmans had been contacted and might join the team directly in Egypt. On the reported two-year ban, Mr Butt said Mr Naqvi told him there was no ban and that the same team which toured Australia would travel to Egypt. The ban had reportedly been imposed under the PHF constitution, raising questions over the process for its reversal. The PCB later issued a statement confirming Mr Naqvi’s meeting with the players and announcing that cheques of Rs1,000,000 had been distributed to each member of the national team, which took second position in the last six international tournaments. The cricket board said Mr Naqvi had assured full cooperation in streamlining the affairs of the players and confirmed that tickets, hotel accommodation and kits would be arranged for the World Cup qualifying round. Outgoing PHF president Mr Bugti told Dawn that arrangements for the qualifiers had already been made through a grant from the Balochistan government. PSB-PHF blame game Meanwhile, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) issued a statement rejecting allegations levelled by the PHF and placing responsibility for the Australia tour’s mismanagement on the federation. The PSB said it had fulfilled all financial obligations for the FIH Pro League Phase 2 in Hobart and made timely payments. It alleged that the PHF had submitted visa applications late and with incomplete information, delaying the team’s departure from Feb 2 to Feb 5. According to the PSB, it bore Rs27.1 million in air ticket expenses and an additional Rs9.7m burden caused by the visa delays. It said that, at the PHF’s request, an advance of 49,280 Australian dollars was issued for hotel accommodation, along with daily allowances of USD 1,610 per player and USD 3,000 for miscellaneous expenses. The PSB also stated that while the PHF had sought a total grant of Rs350m for the Pro League, the government approved Rs250m, with the remaining amount to be arranged by the federation. It alleged that most of the PSB’s grant had been spent on salaries and foreign tours of PHF officials, prompting the board to stop issuing direct grants. In contrast, Mr Bugti had alleged that the PSB failed to make timely payments for hotel bookings and criticised the formation of a probe committee comprising PSB officials. He also urged the formation of a Pakistan Hockey Board and the transfer of stadium control to the PHF to generate funds. Meanwhile, Hockey legend Shahbaz Ahmed Senior, who had opposed Pakistan’s participation in the Pro League, said the national game deserved special treatment from the government. He criticised the heavy expenditure on the league and said the funds should have been directed towards grassroots development in schools, colleges and districts. Pakistan, a four-time World Cup winner and three-time Olympic champion, has faced a prolonged decline in international hockey over the past 30 years, amid repeated allegations of poor administration and negligence in the PHF officialdom, non-existent planning and upgrading, sheer lack of accountability, nepotism and a high frequency of changes in the federation. Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2026

ECC approves release of Rs19bn for PM’s Ramazan package
PoliticsDawn13d ago

ECC approves release of Rs19bn for PM’s Ramazan package

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Thursday approved the release of Rs19 billion for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Ramazan package. On February 12, PM Shehbaz had announced a Rs38bn Ramazan relief package, which would benefit more than 12 million families — around 36m people — through direct digital payments. In a post on X, the finance ministry said Finance Minister Muhammad Aurengzeb remotely chaired a meeting of the ECC. The post said that the ECC approved the “immediate release” of Rs19bn for the prime minister’s package to “ensure timely disbursement of assistance to vulnerable families”. “The remaining requirement out of the proposed Rs25bn will be released as and when necessary, in line with fiscal space,” the ministry said. “The prime minister’s Ramazan relief package 2026 is designed to provide targeted cash assistance to low-income households during the holy month, using National Socio-Economic Registry data to ensure transparency and objective beneficiary selection,” the finance ministry said. It added that the “funds will be disbursed directly through formal banking and digital channels to ensure secure, efficient and dignified delivery”. The ministry further said that during the meeting, the ECC also granted “in-principle approval for Rs1bn operational expenses, directing that detailed cost breakdowns be shared with the Finance Division to ensure transparency, fiscal prudence, and compliance with financial rules”. It stressed “balancing swift relief delivery with strong financial oversight” and further noted that “any unutilised funds would be surrendered in accordance with established procedures”.

Is Saudi Arabia entering a post-ideological phase?, By Muhammad S Balogun
PoliticsPremium Times14d ago

Is Saudi Arabia entering a post-ideological phase?, By Muhammad S Balogun

This is the story so far: Saudi Arabia was born as a revolutionary religious empire. It spent two centuries exporting faith and fighting heresy… Under Mohammed bin Salman, it is becoming something radically different: a post-ideological state that seeks stability more than salvation and prosperity more than doctrinal supremacy… The elevation of technocrats like Fahd […] The post Is Saudi Arabia entering a post-ideological phase?, By Muhammad S Balogun appeared first on Premium Times Nigeria.

Witnesses recount slow pace of rescue work at Gul Plaza
WorldDawn15d ago

Witnesses recount slow pace of rescue work at Gul Plaza

• Amid moving scenes, 23 relatives of the deceased testify before judicial tribunal • Say fire tenders ran out of water, no serious effort made to break walls and windows of the building to rescue people trapped inside KARACHI: Moving scenes were witnessed before the judicial tribunal investigating the Gul Plaza inferno on Monday when 23 relatives of 33 deceased persons narrated their ordeal, pointing fingers at the rescue work, firefighting and slow response by authorities. In their statements before the single-judge tribunal headed by Justice Agha Faisal of the Sindh High Court, they deposed that entry-exit points of Gul Plaza were closed, firefighters arrived late, ran out of water, lacked equipment and skill, while rescue authorities made no efforts to break the walls and windows to rescue people trapped inside. Many of the witnesses broke into tears while testifying before the commission, which heard them at the Deputy Commissioner South Complex. One of the witnesses, Haleem, deposed that his father and brother were inside the building when the fire broke out on Jan 17. He said his father lost his life and brother suffered injuries when he jumped out of the building to save his life. He said firefighters faced a water shortage while the building’s electricity was switched off shortly after the fire broke out. Witness Mohammad Hanif testified that his two sons were killed in the tragic incident. He said rescue officials made no efforts to break the walls and windows to rescue the people. He said police resorted to baton charge him and other relatives of the people trapped inside when they gathered near the plaza. Another witness, Qaiser, whose wife, son and sister-in-law were killed in the blaze submitted before the tribunal that he had asked the recuse and firefighters to break a wall in order to rescue people, but to no avail. He maintained that rescue authorities had lacked proper equipment and machinery. Taj Mohammad, whose father was killed in the incident, blamed the fire and recuse officials for not fulfilling their responsibilities. He said that he, along with a cousin, managed to reach the rooftop of the building, but rescue officials did not brother to reach there in order to save people. One gate of the building was opened and other exit-entry points were closed, he added. Saima, who lost her son in the incident, submitted that she and her daughter-in-law remained present outside the building for nine days, but the authorities did nothing to rescue their loved ones. She deposed that her other sons also participated in the rescue operation. Shahnaz, whose son worked at one of the Gul Plaza shops and lost his life, broke into tears during her testimony. Sanaullah said his sister was killed in the deadly fire and blamed the provincial and local authorities for the tragic incident. Abdul Hafeez, who also lost his son, informed the tribunal that the firefighters were short of fuel and water. Ahsan Ahmed, who lost his brother, also deposed that fire tenders were present on the spot but facing water shortage. Mohammad Hadi said that his son was also killed in the fire, but an assistant commissioner asked him to file an affidavit about the presence of his son in the building at the time of incident. Later, the tribunal provided the witnesses a questionnaire and asked them to submit it at the next hearing. The commission sought reply to 17 questions about the arrival of fire tenders and rescue staff, proper equipment for rescue and firefighting, prompt availability of ambulances, whether police facilitate evacuation or create confusion and the roles of district administration and the management of ill-fated building. The commission will also record the testimonies of various officials of Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Sindh Building Control Authority, Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation, Sindh police, Gul Plaza Shopping Mall Association, K-Eclectic and others on Wednesday (tomorrow). Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2026