Mohamed Muizzu’s government has been engaged in a campaign to expel undocumented foreign workers for a couple of years. However, a study highlights how many migrants who entered the country legally become irregular due to unpaid wages, unrenewed visas, or complaints filed by employers. In August, the deaths of eight Bangladeshi nationals reignited concerns regarding safety conditions.
In the valley of Swat, north western Pakistan, Islamic militants have launched a second attack in less than a month on the gigantic sacred statue. The head, shoulders and feet have been destroyed while the militants threaten a third and final attack.
For an entire day the army prevented her from attending demonstrations. Throughout the country the police crack down on rallies and arrest democratic activists, while suicide attacks threaten protests. Bhutto urges Musharraf to call elections. A protest march proposed for November 13th.
The government yesterday arrested thousands of Pakistan’s Peoples Party supporters ahead of a rally called for by the ex premier who has been blocked within her house by police. Islamabad declares it fears suicide attacks.
The ex premier has attempted to leave the house where she is being kept under guard to make her way to anti-government protests called for by the People’s Party. Speaking to the crowd from a megaphone the ex premier had warned police not to “try to stop her”. Clashes between police and supporters awaiting her.
In a “frank” telephone call; the US president explains’ to Islamabad’s general that he has no right to remain as head of the army and head of state. Despite this he adds that Pakistan is their best ally in the war on terrorism. Preparations ahead of tomorrows anti government protest, organised by Bhutto.
The death of over 60 rebels and 11 soldiers is confirmed following yesterdays clashes in the Jaffna peninsula. President Rajapakse programmes a record increase of funds for military spending, which will reach 1.5 million dollars in 2008.
Parliament adopts bill ending monarchy, turning the country into a republic with an electoral system based on proportional representation. Maoists drop demand for the immediate abolition of the monarchy, raising hope for an end of the current political crisis.
Yesterday’s attack, the worst since 2001, has left at least 42 people dead, including six MPs and many children. For Kabul the “enemies of peace and security in Afghanistan” are behind this crime, but Talibans deny any involvement. Some believe former muhjaheddin leader Hekmatyar is the main principal in the massacre.
Former Pakistani PM begins talks with opposition parties to deal with Musharraf’s state of emergency. Many parties stay away, questioning the popular leader’s ambiguous position vis-à-vis the coup d’état. Internet use grows as TV is censored.
The Christian of Indian origins was detained for 7 months in Saudi Arabia’s prisons because of his faith. In an interview with AsiaNews he comments on the meeting yesterday in the Vatican: a positive step but now Riyadh must really commit itself to respecting religious freedom. Reflections on the persecution of Christian and all non Muslims, and a request for reciprocity.
Birendra Saha disappeared over one month ago causing an outcry from human rights organisation and colleagues. An internal inquest by the formal rebels declares it was “a personal vendetta”. But the reporter had written about Maoist activities, still dedicated to violence and extortion, despite the fact they are part of the government.
Sacked Chief justice calls on Pakistanis to take to the streets in protest. Despite the crackdown demonstrations against the state of emergency continue. About one lawyer in four has been placed under arrest. Government makes vague pledges about the upcoming scheduled parliamentary elections. United states calls on Musharraf to quit as army chief. Minorities warn that by his actions the president is weakening the moderates and strengthening the extremists.
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