On Monday, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi, made a series of announcements during a media briefing. He clarified the government’s stance, emphasizing that they are not a political government and do not have any political agenda. Solangi reiterated that they have no need to engage with political parties, as the Election Commission of Pakistan is responsible for managing political affairs and interactions with political parties.
One of the key highlights of the briefing was the assurance given by the Federal Cabinet regarding the phased repatriation of undocumented foreign nationals. The Cabinet approved a recommendation from the Ministry of Interior, invoking Sections 3 and 14B of the Foreigners Act 1946 to facilitate the return of illegal residents, who are foreign nationals, to their respective countries. These individuals will be sent back to their home countries in an organized manner, following the Repatriation Order.
Furthermore, the Federal Cabinet, under the guidance of Prime Minister Imran Khan, approved a significant policy change regarding the Pakistan Steel Mills Corporation. It was decided to exclude the Pakistan Steel Mills Corporation from the privatization program. The decision reflects the government’s intention to address the challenges facing the corporation through alternative means.
The Federal Information Minister was joined at the briefing by other members of the Federal Cabinet, including Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed, Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan, and National Heritage Minister Jamal Shah, among others.
Murtaza Solangi explained that the Cabinet also approved a proposal from the Ministry of Interior to grant police station status to 10 Immigration Check Posts of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). This move elevates the status of these check posts, enabling them to function as regular police stations. The decision comes in conjunction with the issuance of Passport Rules 2021, which officially designates these check posts as police stations.
These announcements reflect the government’s efforts to address various issues, including the repatriation of undocumented foreign nationals, the revitalization of the Pakistan Steel Mills Corporation, and the enhancement of law enforcement facilities at immigration check posts. While clarifying their non-political nature, the government continues to focus on implementing policies and decisions that impact the country’s overall development and governance.
