Ivory Coast has dissolved the authority responsible for organizing elections following sustained criticism from the opposition regarding its handling of polls, though a replacement has not yet been announced.

Items related to the historic Tokyo Trials have been donated to a memorial hall, reinforcing the importance of preserving their legacy. Concurrently, there is a strong assertion that the authority and findings of these trials must not be challenged.

The US state of California is tightening regulations for autonomous vehicles, granting police the authority to issue tickets to driverless cars that violate traffic laws.

The Belastingdienst, the Dutch Tax Authority, announced it received a record nearly 10.7 million tax returns from individuals and entrepreneurs. This marks a new high for the authority.

Ryan Borg, a director at the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS) and former chief of staff to the Education Minister, is reportedly operating without a contract or job description after privately calling his former boss 'unfit for purpose'.

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has ruled that the Waqf Board lacks the authority to delegate, leading to the annulment of the appointments of four mutawallis.

James Gunn has canceled a major team movie in the DC Universe. Here's what it means for the future of the franchise and its characters.

A recent court decision has affirmed that the Pentagon has the authority to restrict journalists' access and mandate escorts for them, at least for the time being.

A prime minister has been granted authority over an annual budget exceeding $7 billion, indicating significant financial power.

A report by the Authority for Social Relations of Employment Platforms (ARPE) indicates that the hourly income for meal delivery drivers on platforms like Deliveroo and Stuart is expected to continue its five-year downward trend into 2025, primarily due to longer delivery times.

The Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Mohammed Abdul-Salam, announced that the Presidency has affirmed the contractual agreement between the NLA and KGL Technology Limited as being within the authority’s legal mandate.

The trial of Mustapha Abdul-Hamid has been adjourned following a dispute regarding the authority of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

Ghana's National Service Authority (NSA) has drastically cut its payroll by GH₵900 million following a comprehensive cleanup that removed 'ghost names' from its system. The authority is also deploying nearly 100,000 personnel nationwide and emphasizing employer compliance.

The CNMC (National Commission for Markets and Competition) has opened 14 sanctioning cases as part of its investigation into a power outage. The authority detected 'indications of infringement over prolonged periods' that may have affected system operation, though not necessarily causing the incident.

The deputy governor of the Turkish central bank has pledged to adopt a cautious monetary policy stance, emphasizing the authority's focus on containing economic risks amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) app and website in Dubai are currently experiencing technical issues, preventing users from clearing pending fines. The authority is working to resolve the disruption.

While commune councils have the authority to set adjacency fees in Poland, their discretion is strictly limited by law, and attempts to differentiate rates may lead to intervention from supervisory bodies.

Administrators and lawyers specializing in property management clarify that community associations have the authority to prohibit residents from smoking on their balconies if it causes disturbance to other owners.

The Finnish government aims to grant Kela, the Social Insurance Institution, the authority to independently access benefits applicants' bank accounts to prevent fraud.

The Lahore High Court has ruled that civil courts do not have the authority to order the blocking of CNICs (Computerized National Identity Cards), as such matters fall outside their jurisdiction.

The Federal Shariat Court (FCC) in Pakistan has ruled that it possesses the authority to initiate contempt of court cases, citing Article 204 as self-executory.

The Missouri Senate has passed a bill aimed at directly confronting the authority of unelected global institutions like the WHO, UN, and WEF within domestic governance.

A judge has issued a ruling stating that the Trump administration lacks the authority to compel colleges to provide race-related data.

A district court ruling indicates that the Competition Authority's case strategy, evidence presentation, and repeated references to its own decisions were not in line with legal requirements. This suggests a significant discrepancy in the authority's approach to judicial proceedings.

Botha Mine in Zimbabwe has challenged the authority of a minister regarding alleged survey discrepancies, leading to a dispute over mining rights and regulations.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor grilled the Trump Solicitor General, questioning whether the government was seeking the authority to "unnaturalize people" during a legal proceeding.

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) disclosed on March 17 that its systems had been breached by hackers. The authority did not reveal what information was compromised in the cyberattack.

New amendments in Hong Kong grant police the authority to demand phone and laptop passwords from individuals, including tourists, without a warrant, with refusal now a criminal offense punishable by jail time and fines.

In Hungary, pharmacists and advanced practice nurses will be granted the authority to prescribe medications within the next six months, expanding their scope of practice.

The Israeli Knesset has passed a new law that significantly expands the authority of religious courts over civil matters, a move that has drawn both support and criticism.

A Georgia appeals court has ruled that Fulton County has the authority to reject Republican picks for its election board.

A new audit by the Office of the Legislative Auditor revealed that a Minnesota agency plagued by fraud incorrectly believed it lacked the authority to investigate kickbacks, highlighting systemic failures.

By Godwin Oritse The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has assured port users and stakeholders that ongoing review of the Electronic Truck Call-Up System, popularly known as ETO, will not disrupt port operations or cargo movement. The Authority gave the assurance following the expiration of its agreement with Truck Transit Park Ltd (TTP), the firm managing the […] The post Apapa traffic system review won’t disrupt ports — NPA appeared first on Vanguard News.

The Indian government is reportedly looking to expand the authority of more ministries to block content on social media platforms.

The Serbia Center (SRCE) party announced that Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić was unauthorized to present 'Veteran's Memorial Medals' in Lučani, accusing him of unlawfully usurping the authority of the Minister of Labor.

Dell has asserted that government contractors do not have the authority to dictate how their technology is used by customers.

Ruth Oji's opinion piece, 'The authority you carry: Mastering executive presence,' explores how individuals can command attention and respect without explicit announcements, focusing on the subtle shifts in atmosphere created by a strong presence.

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has cancelled around 4.2 million Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) of individuals who have been recorded as deceased in provincial civil registration systems, according to a statement issued by the authority. In many cases, while deaths are formally registered, the next of kin do not apply for the cancellation of CNICs of the deceased, resulting in a discrepancy between civil registration records and Nadra’s databa...

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has uncovered a criminal network responsible for the illegal manufacture and distribution of more than 30,000 counterfeit dealer vehicle (DV) plates nationwide, with an estimated value of GH¢12.51 million. The Chief Executive Officer of the authority, Julius Neequaye Kotey, disclosed this at a press briefing in Accra on […]

Germany's Bundeswehr has been granted expanded powers to counter drones, including the authority to shoot down unmanned aerial vehicles in specific emergency situations, following approval by the Bundesrat.

Bianca Censori may be fine baring her body on the streets of Los Angeles ... but, she also respects the authority of the criminal justice system -- covering up for Kanye West's court date.

The honest version of what Starmer and Macron are doing is outsourcing hard power to allies while claiming the authority to restrain those allies.

The government has introduced a new policy giving police the authority to move on rough sleepers and beggars in town centres, a move that has been heavily politicised and covered by the media.

Turkey’s Constitutional Court president stated that the court lacks the authority to ensure the implementation of rulings by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), addressing ongoing controversy over high-profile cases.

The Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Rev Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, says Ghana’s voice service penetration has risen to over 127 per cent as the Authority marks 30 years of operation.

Saudi Arabia’s Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has banned the import of poultry and table eggs from 40 countries and imposed partial restrictions on certain regions in 16 other nations, as a precaution to protect public health and ensure food safety in the domestic market. The authority said, “the list of affected countries is subject […] The post Saudi Arabia bans poultry egg imports from Nigeria, 39 other countries appeared first on Vanguard News.

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that the Uttar Pradesh board possesses the authority to prescribe textbooks for students in classes 10 and 12.

Hungary's National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) stated it cannot act on a Fidesz 'headshot' video because Facebook operates from Ireland, placing it outside the authority's jurisdiction.

"The authority to determine the blocking of lines known as "Kosher Lines" is vested in the Rabbinical Committee for Communications Affairs," Rami Levy Communications stated.

Panics, Politics, & Power: America's 3 Experiments With Central Banks Authored by Andrew Moran via The Epoch Times, The Federal Reserve, established more than a century ago, is the United States’ third experiment with central banking. For much of its existence, the institution maintained a low public profile. Only after the 2008 global financial crisis did the Fed begin communicating more openly, introducing post-meeting press conferences and allowing monetary policymakers to engage more frequently with the media. Greater transparency, however, has brought greater scrutiny. Public sentiment toward the Fed and its leadership has fluctuated over the years. Today, YouGov polling suggests the central bank is viewed favorably by 44 percent of Americans and unfavorably by 18 percent. If the Fed pursues a series of reforms, it will have “another great 100 years,” said Kevin Warsh, who was nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as the institution’s next chair. Comparable to past central banks, Warsh said, the current Federal Reserve System is beginning to lose the consent of the governed. “You can think about the Jacksonians of prior times say that the central bank seems like they’re trying to focus and they’re all preoccupied with those special interests on the East Coast, and they’ve lost track of what’s happening to us in the center of the country,” Warsh said in a July 2025 interview with the Hoover Institution’s Peter Robinson. “It’s a version of what worries me today.” What happened in the past, and why is it relevant to today’s central bank? The First Bank of the United States In the aftermath of the American Revolution, the United States faced a series of immense economic disruptions, forcing the nation’s architects to rebuild the economy. The objective was to lower inflation, restore the value of the nation’s currency, repay war debt, and revive the economy. Alexander Hamilton, the first secretary of the Treasury under the new Constitution, proposed establishing a national bank modeled on the Bank of England. Hamilton stated that a U.S. version would perform various duties, including issuing paper money, serving as the government’s fiscal agent, and protecting public funds. Not everyone shared Hamilton’s ebullience over a central bank. Thomas Jefferson, for example, feared that such an institution would not serve the nation’s best interests. Additionally, Jefferson and other critics argued that the Constitution did not grant the government the authority to create these entities. Nevertheless, Congress enacted legislation to establish the Bank of the United States. President George Washington then signed the bill in February 1791. Two of America's founding fathers: Thomas Jefferson (L) and Alexander Hamilton. The White House While bank officials did not conduct monetary policy as modern central banks do, they did influence the supply of money and credit, as well as interest rates. The entity managed the money supply by controlling when to redeem or retain state‑bank notes. If it sought to tighten credit, it would require payment in gold or silver, thereby draining state banks’ reserves and limiting their ability to issue new notes. If it wanted to expand credit, it simply held on to those notes, boosting state‑bank reserves and enabling them to lend more. By 1811, the national bank’s charter expired. While there had been discussions of allowing it to continue maintaining operations, Congress—both chambers—voted against renewing its mandate by a single vote. Its closure came shortly before the War of 1812, which fueled inflation and weakened the currency. Second Bank of the United States Lawmakers believed another central bank was critical at a time of fiscal, inflationary, and trade pressures. Congress used a similar 20-year model to produce the Second Bank of the United States, headed by Nicholas Biddle. The second incarnation had a federal charter, was privately owned, and was tasked with regulating state banks (with gold and silver for note redemption). President James Madison, who opposed the first central bank on constitutional grounds, supported the new institution out of financial necessity. Its creation stabilized credit and brought down inflation. However, by the 1830s, the bank faced strong opposition, particularly from President Andrew Jackson. Labeled the Bank War, Jackson engaged in a years-long initiative to dissolve the central bank. Jackson claimed the national bank was a tool for the wealthy eastern elite and a threat to self-government. “The Jacksonians described themselves as conscious hard-money men who supported the rigid discipline of the gold standard, yet they opposed the newly powerful national Bank because it restrained the expansion of credit and, thus, thwarted robust economic expansion,” author William Greider wrote in “Secrets of the Temple.” In 1832, Jackson vetoed legislation to recharter the bank four years early, delivering a fiery message that historians say was one of the most important vetoes in the nation’s history. “It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes. Distinctions in society will always exist under every just government,” Jackson wrote. “There are no necessary evils in government. Its evils exist only in its abuses. If it would confine itself to equal protection, and, as Heaven does its rains, shower its favors alike on the high and the low, the rich and the poor, it would be an unqualified blessing. In the act before me, there seems to be a wide and unnecessary departure from these just principles.” The charter expired in 1836, leading to the panic of 1837. An economic crisis unfolded, leading to bank failures, business bankruptcies, rising unemployment, and contracting credit. While the collapse of the central bank is often considered a leading cause, the British also urged London banks to reduce credit to American merchants, causing a sharp drop in global trade. As the smoke cleared and dust settled, it was not until the 1840s that the United States embarked on a historic economic recovery, now known as the Free Banking Era. Banking was decentralized, and finance was largely unregulated. Despite an erratic financial system, the U.S. economy grew rapidly: agricultural production accelerated, railroads were built, and the country expanded westward. Additionally, deflation was paramount throughout most of the economic expansion. The Federal Reserve System The panic of 1907 led to the creation of the Federal Reserve System. Following years of heavy borrowing, speculative commodities investments (mainly copper), and enormous stock market gains, a financial crisis was brewing. The event nearly brought down the U.S. banking system. J.P. Morgan, a financier, intervened and emulated the actions of modern central banks. He met with the nation’s top bankers, facilitated emergency loans to financial institutions, and backed stockbrokers. The damage had been done as the United States fell into a year-long recession, marked by high unemployment and widespread bank failures. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors seal in Washington on Oct. 29, 2025. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times Washington realized that it could not rely on private bailouts to prevent sharp downturns. Sen. Nelson Aldrich (R-R.I.) is widely regarded as one of the chief architects of the modern Federal Reserve System. In 1910, Aldrich hosted the famous Jekyll Island meetings, a gathering of U.S. officials and bankers, to discuss the blueprint of a new central bank. While the initial draft laid the foundation for the institution, the official Federal Reserve Act was drafted by President Woodrow Wilson, Rep. Carter Glass (D-Va.), and H. Parker Willis, an economist on the House Banking Committee. The new system was a public-private hybrid, with the federal government firmly in charge, and bankers running the regional reserve banks. “It was Wilson’s great compromise,” wrote Greider, “creating a hybrid institution that mixed private and public control, an approach without precedent at the time.” The legislation triggered a contentious political debate over the extent of its independence from the Treasury and the degree of authority delegated to policymakers over currency issuance. Days before Christmas, the bill cleared both chambers and was signed into law by Wilson on Dec. 23. “Wilson’s conviction that he had struck the right moderate balance seemed confirmed, however, by the reactions to his legislation,” Greider noted. “It was attacked by both extremes—the ‘radicals’ from the Populist states and the bankers in Wall Street and elsewhere.” Since its inception in 1913, the modern Federal Reserve has undergone numerous changes and has gained greater power. The New Deal, for instance, allowed the Fed to become the lender of last resort as Washington learned the central bank could not prevent bank failures. In 1951, the Treasury-Fed Accord restored central bank independence after the Federal Reserve had been forced to keep interest rates artificially low throughout the Second World War. Congress then enacted the Federal Reserve Reform Act in 1977, establishing the dual mandate of promoting maximum employment and maintaining price stability. 2026 and Beyond Over the past 50 years, the Fed has undergone modest changes, including the issuance of forward guidance and the disclosure of emergency lending facilities. But while each new regime has nibbled around the edges, Warsh has suggested he could effect substantial reforms at the central bank. “Until there’s regime change at the Fed and new people running the Fed, a new operating framework, they’re stuck with their old mistakes,” Warsh told Fox Business Network in October 2025. “Bygones aren’t just bygones.” Tyler Durden Wed, 02/18/2026 - 16:20

A judge has indicated she will rule that the federal government lacks the authority to compel states to furnish data on recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Moldova's Environment Agency will be reorganized by absorbing the Agency for Geology and Mineral Resources (AGRM), and the State Hydrometeorological Service (SHS) will become the Authority for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring, with adjusted staffing to cover waste management, chemicals, air protection, and climate change.

A statement from China Daily emphasizes that the authority and legitimacy of the Tokyo Trials should not be questioned or challenged.

The Authority for the Financial Markets reports that one in ten Dutch households, totaling 800,000, possesses sufficient financial resources to invest but chooses not to do so.

The Spanish government has agreed to transfer the authority for selecting university professors to autonomous communities like Catalonia and the Basque Country, making 'linguistic pluralism' a merit for hiring.

The Venice Biennale initially stated it lacked the authority to exclude Russia, but following significant criticism, organizers changed their position. This decision effectively limited or prevented Russia's involvement in the art exhibition.

The Carney government in Canada is proposing legislative changes, included in the 2026 spring economic update, to grant law enforcement the authority to search and seize Canadians' mail.

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour asserted that only Lagos residents have the authority to remove their governor, responding to recent debunked rumors regarding Governor Sanwo-Olu’s resignation due to health issues.

A federal court has ruled that Texas police have the authority to arrest individuals suspected of illegally entering the country. This decision impacts immigration enforcement powers within the state.

Lebanon's government in Beirut is facing a dilemma as both Netanyahu and Hezbollah are reportedly undermining the authority of the Lebanese state, raising concerns about the country's future.

Albania's Competition Authority has launched an investigation into the mobile telephony market following tariff increases announced by One Albania. The head of the authority indicated that a positive

Starting next autumn, environmentalists in Lithuania will no longer have the authority to inspect M1 and M2 class vehicles for pollution or revoke mandatory technical inspection documents.

The U.S. Congress is set to vote on legislation that would expand the authority of the 'God Squad' and potentially weaken protections under the Endangered Species Act, which has historically prevented the extinction of 99% of protected species.

Philemon Laar, Director of Planning, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at Ghana's National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), refuted claims by an MP that the Authority manages pension funds.

An opinion piece explores the profound dispute over who holds the authority to enunciate Christian morality in the American public sphere, drawing parallels between Trump and historical figures like Louis XIV.

Hong Kong's Hospital Authority has suspended all contractors' access to patient data following a significant leak impacting over 56,000 patients. The authority is also considering banning the involved company from future bids.

The Norwegian Competition Authority has announced that Elkjøp's proposed acquisition of Eplehuset requires a closer review. The authority will assess the potential impact of the merger on market competition.

Hessen's data protection commissioner has reported a 58% increase in data protection complaints, indicating growing public concern over data privacy. The authority's work is reportedly hampered by a lack of personnel.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana has provided an overview of the regulatory framework governing vehicle registration activities, specifically focusing on trade license plates (DV and DP). The authority is mandated to maintain accurate records of vehicles on Ghanaian roads.

The Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Abeiku Aggrey, disclosed the Authority's support for A Plus' Gomoa Easter Carnival, highlighting their involvement in promoting the event.

The authority of a political figure named Montero is undergoing a definitive test, as a 'rebel' list in Cádiz is being judged while attempts are made to limit the power of provincial 'barons'.

The Portuguese GNR recorded 4,179 infractions for using mobile phones while driving in the first three months of the year. The authority noted a continuous and concerning increase in this type of violation.

The Thessaloniki Port Authority (ThPA S.A.) is preparing for a strong showing at Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, the premier annual event for the global cruise industry. The authority aims to strengthen Thessaloniki's position as a cruise destination.

Ecuador has declared a 60-day state of emergency, encompassing seven million people across the country's two largest cities, which grants police and armed forces the authority to enter homes without warrants and intercept communications.

Botha Mine in Zimbabwe is challenging the authority of a minister regarding discrepancies found in a survey.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced that there will be no nationwide minimum wage increase on May 1, as future adjustments will remain region-based under the authority of local wage boards.

An analysis explores the Vatican's role as a proponent of multilateralism and a UN-based global order, questioning whether the authority of popes in international politics is systematically weakening in their efforts to ensure peace.

Sheikh Diba, speaking on TRS, made a statement asserting that the Financial Times is not infallible. This comment suggests a critical perspective on the authority or accuracy of the prominent financial publication.

A report by the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) reveals that 60% of online retailers in the Netherlands fail to meet basic accessibility standards for people with disabilities.

A CBOS poll in Poland indicates that half of respondents believe State Labor Inspectorate (PIP) inspectors should have the authority to convert certain contracts into employment agreements if work criteria for full-time employment are met.

The CEO of the Icelandic Competition Authority has stated that the chairman of Síldarvinnslan, Þorsteinn Már Baldursson, made incorrect statements at the company's general meeting regarding the authority's stance on mergers of Icelandic salmon companies.

An inter-ministerial team in India is developing a proposal to grant multiple government ministries the authority to issue blocking orders to social media platforms for content deemed fake or harmful, beyond the current powers of the IT Ministry.

The Indian Centre is reportedly preparing to grant additional ministries the authority to block content on social media platforms.

The Trump administration plans to convene a meeting of the 'God Squad' this month, a panel with the authority to override environmental laws, to focus on oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Serbia Centre (SRCE) party announced that Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić lacks the authority to present 'Veteran Memorials' to fighters and war veterans in Lučani, questioning the legality of his actions.

The authority warned in December that retailers’ fuel margins remained ‘persistently high’

When a nation loses a legend, we honour him with dignity, not with lawlessness, cultural violation, and a reckless disregard for the authority of the courts.

Dublin City Council has signed a contract worth over half a billion euros to acquire the Camden Yard site, paving the way for the authority to move its offices from Wood Quay to the new location.

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) archives contain historical information and records related to the management and development of waterways in Lagos. These archives provide insight into the authority's past activities and projects.

Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor is a UAE businessman and the chairman of Al Habtoor Group.

Aeries shareholders have approved the authority for a share consolidation, though the company currently has no plans for its near-term implementation.

‘US president has the authority to act for imminent threats against the US’

Mitovski states that the Agency for Food and Veterinary (AHV) accusations against the municipality are legally unfounded, as the authority for seizure measures lies solely with the Agency, and institutional responsibility cannot be relativized through public statements.

Customer service centres and offices of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) will remain closed from 7.45am to 10am on Friday, February 27, due to a work stoppage announced by the organisation’s four trade unions, the authority said on Thursday. The EAC announced that public services will resume after 10am, stressing that the work stoppage […]

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has moved to clarify what it describes as media reports suggesting that its domestic staff would be posted to foreign embassies to provide driver licensing services. In a statement dated February 26, 2026, the Authority insisted the initiative does not involve posting DVLA officers abroad.

The Odisha government has granted collectors the authority to extend the validity of tokens by 15 days, facilitating the ongoing paddy procurement process.

Zimbabwe's Treasury has rejected parliamentary proposals to assume the legacy debts of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), telling the authority to 'carry its own cross'.

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 — The Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) has the authority to initiate its own inve...

China urged the United States on Monday to cancel unilateral tariffs announced by President Donald Trump after the US Supreme Court struck down many of his measures. The court ruled six to three on Friday that Trump does not have the authority to impose tariffs under a 1977 law he has relied on to impose […]

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said on Wednesday that 5G spectrum auction would be held on March 10 and no changes were likely to be made in the schedule, saying that the sale was likely to fetch between $300-$700 million. The authority is offering 597 megahertz (MHz) in several bands in the upcoming auction and three existing telecom operators have been mandated to obtain a minimum of 100 MHz in the auction process. “With the prescribed rate, even if 300 MHz is obtained by the telecommunication operators without any competitive bidding, the government will get $300 million,” PTA Director General Licensing retired brigadier Aamir Shahzad told a media briefing. “And if all the 597 MHz is sold at auction at a slightly competitive rate, $700 million will be available for the government, but this scenario is less likely to happen,” he added. Shahzad said that the auction would be conducted using a multi-round electronic clock auction format, with the main allocation stage starting on March 10. He said the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands would be offered during the first round. He added that after the auction process, the rollout of 5G services would take between three and six months as certain infrastructure was needed for the fresh spectrum. Meanwhile, Chairman PTA Hafeezur Rehman said that the auction would lead to improved quality of service and data speed. “Around 50 million new users have been added in the system during the last five years, but only 10MHz was increased in the 2021 spectrum auction,” PTA Chairman said. “Improved data service and enhanced coverage will also increase average revenue per user (ARPU) for telecommunication operators,” he said. The ARPU is a key performance indicator that measures the average revenue generated by a company from each consumer within a specific timeframe, monthly or annually. “We started with $0.7 and now the ARPU has reached $1.3. Therefore, it is likely to increase as more data is consumed by the subscribers,” Rehman said. “The authority expects mobile broadband speeds to improve by around 25 per cent following the auction,” he said. He said that the government had offered many incentives to telecom companies in the new spectrum auction, but obligations to improve the quality of service as well as coverage area had been increased. “This will help the country to embrace further upgradations like 6G and not like 5G, where we have been delayed,” the PTA Chairman said. He added the government had also eliminated the right-of-way fee that used to be around Rs36,000 per kilometre annually; this, he said, would encourage fiberisation projects. The chairman also said that telecom operators had already placed orders for 5G equipment, while local manufacturing of 5G-enabled smartphones had commenced, with 500,000 to 600,000 units produced so far. He said the other measures being taken to facilitate the faster rollout of services after the auction were options for spectrum sharing, relaxation of certain regulatory terms and incentives for network expansion. “Operators have been given one year to make the necessary capital investments without upfront spectrum payments, allowing them to focus on improving service quality,” Rehman added. However, the operators will have to expand 5G coverage to additional cities apart from Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta, while fiber-to-the-site ratios will increase from 20 per cent to 35pc by 2035. Besides, the minimum download speeds for 4G service have been increased from four megabytes per second (Mbps) to 20Mbps in 2026–27 and to 50Mbps by 2030–35. For 5G, minimum download speeds will rise from 50Mbps initially to 100Mbps by 2030–35, with latency targets reduced to 35 milliseconds. Upload speeds are benchmarked at 20pc of download speeds across both technologies.

A coalition of armed groups and rebels is challenging the authority of Mali's military government. The article questions whether the government is losing control amidst these developments.

A court battle in New Zealand regarding puberty blockers is testing who has the authority to make decisions for vulnerable children.

The Finnish government is proposing legislation that would grant police the authority to use force, including shooting down drones, to intervene in drone flights when necessary.

A ministry has issued a strong denial, refuting claims that proposed amendments to the Family Law would grant children the authority to decide on gender reassignment. The ministry clarifies that such provisions are not included in the changes.

Has the County Administrative Board in Norrbotten deliberately concealed suspected environmental crimes?

Mário Silvestre explained that the authority is "losing highly qualified and trained assets" and many of them "grew up and were trained" at ANEPC. Nighttime fires are also a concern.

Montenegro's Ministry of Finance has accepted an appeal, overturning a previous decision and returning the case for reconsideration, with the resolution signed under the authority of Minister Slaven Radunović.

Katarina Prnjak, a former SDP councilwoman whose vote was crucial for HDZ's majority in Split, has been employed by the Port Authority. The Authority claims she was selected legally as the child of a Croatian veteran.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) clarified that its Publican AI system offers only suggestions, not final decisions, for tax assessments. The authority also acknowledged that its outreach efforts regarding the AI tool may not have effectively reached all grassroots traders.

Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), launched the 2026 National Petroleum (NAPET) Ladies Week celebration, reaffirming the authority's commitment to advancing women empowerment.

A judge has ruled that a municipality in eastern Manitoba lacks the authority to ban a resident, deemed disruptive, from attending council meetings.

Ghanaian MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah has labeled the National Pensions Regulatory Authority's (NPRA) response to his concerns about the Authority’s assets as misleading, demanding further evidence.

An inspection agency informed parents of students at Jovina Gymnasium that it lacks the authority to determine safety, following parental concerns. The agency stated it was not competent to establish the safety conditions.

Spain's fiscal authority has warned that tax breaks intended as aid for the war in Iran disproportionately benefit high-income earners. The authority suggests direct transfers as a more equitable solution.

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has issued a warning regarding the significant safety risks associated with modified Toyota Voxy vehicles. The authority highlighted five key dangers linked to these converted vehicles.

Approximately 120,000 homeowners in the Netherlands face significant foundation problems requiring costly repairs, which many cannot afford, according to a study by the Authority for the Financial Markets.

A new report indicates that the state has the authority to prevent refugees from relocating to municipalities that already have a high concentration of refugees.

The government's former anti-trust chief has stated that regulators have the authority to investigate potential collusion among oil firms.

The European Union is pursuing a standalone law to enhance the authority and reach of its space agency, aiming to strengthen its role in the global space sector.

The youth wing of the ADC party has given Nigeria's electoral commission (INEC) a 72-hour ultimatum and threatened nationwide protests over an ongoing leadership dispute, asserting that INEC lacks the authority to interpret court orders.

The Allahabad High Court criticized the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) for an unexplained six-year delay in releasing an insurance claim to a widow, questioning the authority under which the delay occurred.

Birmingham city council has reportedly doubled its spending on agency staff during ongoing bin strikes, leading Unite to accuse the authority of attempting to undermine the industrial action as the waste dispute enters its second year.

The Estonian Transport Administration plans to adopt a more flexible, growth-based approach to roadside mowing, aiming to benefit both the environment and the authority's budget.

The Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) has the authority to challenge the fairness of salary amounts, with the assessment needing to relate to a specific employment relationship rather than an employee's total earnings from multiple employers.

A new bill in Pakistan proposes to grant NADRA the authority to block the Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) of individuals identified as suspects.

Malaysia's deputy education minister announced that school administrators have the authority to temporarily close schools if temperatures consistently exceed 37°C for three consecutive days.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been granted the authority to recover past property taxes, impacting Mumbaikars.

The European Banking Authority (EBA) reported that EU banks have increased their minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL) buffers, as the authority highlights ongoing challenges.

The CEO of the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sports (AIMS), Kevin Azzopardi, was spotted among the Prime Minister’s entourage during a visit to the Obstacle Course Academy (OCA) in Mrieħel, an…

The Swedish Social Democrats are calling on the government to quickly implement a new law that would grant police the authority to remove advertisements promoting murder.

The Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) has extended airspace restrictions on Indian aircraft till April 24, according to a fresh notice to airmen (Notam) issued on Wednesday. The authority said that Pakistan’s airspace would remain closed to all aircraft registered in India. The Notam issued by Pakistan for barring Indian flights in its airspace till April 24, 2026. — PAA website The restriction would also continue to apply to aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Indian airline...

Proposed designated laws to streamline land-use approval procedures for the Northern Metropolis megaproject will not undermine the authority of Hong Kong’s town planning body, some experts have…

A Treasury official, Bessent, stated that the Treasury Department is not intervening in oil commodities markets and lacks the authority to do so, addressing rumors of government intervention to lower oil prices.

The Florida Legislature has approved a measure that grants Governor DeSantis the authority to officially name 'terrorist' groups.

The Sofia City Council has supported Mayor Terziev's request, granting him the authority to initiate procedures for the acquisition of significant properties in the city.

Seven 'rebel nuns' in Spain, who no longer recognize the authority of the Vatican, are being forced to leave their monastery after nearly two years of legal disputes with the Catholic Church.

A US court has ruled that West Virginia has the authority to ban Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming surgeries.

Pressure on the budgets of Gulf countries could lead these states to reconsider their foreign investments and future obligations as they consider options to alleviate the financial burden caused by...

A US appeals court has ruled that former President Donald Trump has the authority to suspend refugee admissions, a decision that could impact future immigration policies.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) intercepted an additional 1,070 pieces of chanfang machines concealed in separate containers at the Tema Port on Tuesday night, March 3. The latest seizure comes just weeks after the Authority uncovered more than 200 Chanfang machines hidden in 14 shipping containers in a similar operation. According to EPA officials, the scale of […]

“The Authority will ​continue to monitor ‌developments in the region and assess the situation on an ongoing basis, taking any further measures as necessary,” UAE Capital Markets Authority said ‌in a…

The Hungarian Disaster Management Authority has sanctioned the Samsung SDI battery plant in Göd for previously transporting hazardous materials irregularly. The authority stated it had inspected the facility during increased transport activities.

The plenum of Bulgaria's Supreme Judicial Council is currently debating who has the authority to remove Borislav Sarafov from his position and elect a new interim chief prosecutor.

Two federally funded newsrooms received a draft funding agreement that could grant President Trump’s appointees the authority to veto new hires for editor-in-chief and chief executive positions.

The Acting Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has conceded that 17 officers recruited into the Authority did not complete the required public sector procedures, following a JoySports publication.

The personal data commissioner on Tuesday moved to halt the operation of the Agora app created by MEP Fidias Panayiotou, citing failures to comply with the general data protection regulation (GDPR). Commissioner Maria Christofidou said the authority had formally requested the suspension of the Agora app until a mandatory assessment was completed. Speaking on both […]

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commissioned a premium service centre at Bantama in Kumasi, a move aimed at bringing its services closer to residents and reducing the activities of middlemen, popularly known as “goro boys.” The Chief Executive of the Authority, Julius Neequaye Kotey, speaking at the commissioning ceremony, said the establishment of the new facility forms part of efforts to improve service delivery and enhance transparency in line with the government’s...

ISLAMABAD: Around 31.9 million births registered with union councils (UC) in 2025 are yet to be added to the record in the National Database and Registration Authority’s (Nadra) central database, according to an annual performance report. The report was recently submitted by Nadra to the interior ministry, according to which a total of 227m individuals are registered with the authority. Overall, nearly 97 per cent of Pakistan’s population is now included in the registration system, according to the report, which also shows that 52pc of the registered individuals are males and 48pc are females. As for biometric data, Nadra’s system contains facial records of 170m people, iris data of seven million individuals and 1.68 billion fingerprints, the reports says. During 2025 alone, the report states, some 445m biometric verifications were carried out, contributing to “improved transparency” and “strengthening of digital governance systems”. According to the report, national registration increased by 4pc in 2025, registration of children under the age of 18 rose by 11pc, renewal of expired identity cards increased by 24pc and cancellation of identity cards following death registration surged by 900pc. Female registration also saw an 8pc rise during the year. The reports says that by end of the year, 938 registration centres were operational nationwide. The authority established 75 new centres 138 new counters, while another 126 counters were installed at existing offices. The reports say that 231 mobile registration vans remained active during the year, including 33 satellite-equipped units for remote areas. At the UC level, 62 registration counters were operational while six new counters were set up in five countries abroad to facilitate overseas Pakistanis. According to the report, the Pak Identity mobile application was used to handle 15pc of Nadra’s total workload. The app was downloaded more than 12m times, enabling citizens to access services without visiting registration centres. In 2025, the federal government approved the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework to further strengthen the unified registration system. Amendments to national identity card regulations were also introduced, biometric child registration certificates were launched for children as young as three, and family registration certificates were granted formal legal status. According to the report, Pakistan’s identity registration system now has near-complete coverage, though efforts are still required to further improve the registration of women and young children in certain areas. Clear policy recommendations have been proposed to close the remaining gaps entirely, the report says.

• Accumulated losses hit Rs2.07tr by June 2025; half of it piled up in just three years • Outstanding loans stand near Rs3.1tr, debt rising Rs300bn a year • Financing cost reaches Rs210bn in FY25, highest among SOEs ISLAMABAD: Carrying the largest outstanding loan portfolio on its books and a negative return on assets, the National Highway Authority (NHA) — the country’s logistics backbone — is the single largest entity bleeding the federal budget, exposing Pakistan to substantial fiscal risk despite the recent doubling of tolls. The NHA is the “largest loss-maker”, operating on a “structural deficit model and reliant on budgetary support”, the Central Monitoring Unit (CMU) of the Ministry of Finance said in its Annual Aggregate Report on state-owned enterprises (SOEs) for the year ended June 30, 2025. With accumulated losses of Rs2.074 trillion, the entity that owns and operates all the national highways and motorways accrued around Rs1.004tr in the last three years alone — about Rs295 billion each in FY24 and FY25 and Rs413bn in FY23. Moreover, it stands out at the top of the SOE list, with the largest accrued financing cost of Rs210bn in FY25, as its toll revenue remains unaligned with debt servicing, leading to fiscal dependence and sovereign guarantee exposure. “Currently, the NHA holds outstanding loans totalling approximately Rs3.1tr, with an annual debt accretion rate of Rs300bn. This debt portfolio generates Rs98bn in markup, which is expected to rise to more than Rs150bn per annum, creating a substantial credit risk for the government of Pakistan (GoP), which guarantees these loans”, the CMA said. It said the presence of sovereign guarantees for public-private partnership (PPP) contracts added further financial strain, amplifying the government’s credit risk exposure. With more than Rs115 billion in loans given by the federal government last year, it is also among the top borrowers. On the other hand, its net assets remained almost static over the last three years, actually declining slightly from Rs5.84tr in FY23 to Rs5.83tr in FY25. Its total equity has been declining over time from Rs2.57tr in FY23 to Rs2.27tr in FY24 and Rs1.95tr in FY25. Conversely, NHA’s total liabilities have been increasing, making it the single-largest entity to accrue current liabilities. Its total liabilities amounted to Rs3.27tr in FY23, increasing to Rs3.54tr in FY24 and reaching Rs3.88tr by the end of FY25. The CMU observed that National Highway Authority’s 2025 performance underscored its strategic importance yet exposed growing fiscal vulnerability. “Despite an impressive surge in toll revenues and build, own and transfer (BOT) project inflows, the authority continues to operate under a persistent deficit, driven by high depreciation and finance costs,” it said. Operating income rose sharply to Rs83.1bn in FY25 (against Rs42.4bn in FY24), propelled by the doubling of toll income to Rs64.4bn. However, the overall income of Rs119.7bn remained insufficient against total expenditures of Rs408.1bn. Consequently, the deficit before levy and taxation stood at Rs292.98bn and the deficit after tax at Rs294.86bn, reflecting continued structural stress. It noted that two critical components eroded National Highway Authority’s profitability. These include depreciation expense of Rs133.8bn, reflecting a heavily capital-intensive asset base and growing maintenance backlog and Rs193.5bn finance cost, up from Rs182bn last year, highlighting the escalating burden of debt and interest rate exposure. The CMU advised diversification of funding sources through infrastructure bonds targeted at domestic institutional investors and international development markets. It said the expansion of public-private partnerships for new road construction, maintenance outsourcing and service area development can shift part of the fiscal and operational burden to the private sector while improving efficiency and service quality. The CMU also called for renegotiating loan terms with lenders to extend maturities, reduce interest rates or convert debt into quasi-equity instruments to create immediate fiscal space. Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2026