Pakistan News LIVE updates: Imran Khan accuses 'traitor' lawmakers of accepting bribes

Pakistan’s Imran khan blames the Opposition and his own ruling party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf MNAs for accepting bribes worth 'crores of rupees’ to topple his government from the foreign regimes. The embattled leader accused the lawmakers of conspiring against him and called them “traitors” as he addressed the party workers at the Governor's House. 

"If an enemy country buys 23 to 30 people (lawmakers) with PRs10 to 15 bn it can send an elected government home,” said Imran Khan. He then emulated an example saying that if India decides to topple a government in Pakistan it can do so in that amount.

"A big conspiracy is made against my government internationally,” said Khan, adding that he has filed a reference against the “traitors” in court and they must go to jail. 

The United States has issued a level 3 travel advisory for Pakistan asking travellers to reconsider travel to the Islamic country due to terrorist and sectarian violence. This development comes after Prime Minister Imran Khan accused Washington of attempting to topple his government.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday that the joint opposition will fight the general elections separately. "We are different entities. Joint Opposition to go solo in Pakistan polls," she said.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz called the 'threat letter', dismissal of no-trust motion and dissolution of the National Assembly the biggest ever attack on the constitution "just to remain in power for some days".

Slamming Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz said, "They took the unconstitutional way of dissolving assembly as they knew any Government won’t leave them. They have corruption charges against them."

Addressing a press conference, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday said that the 'threat letter' was planted and asked Imran Khan to bring the diplomat in front'.

"Letter was all planted, the main character of this letter diplomat was called back from the US as he was to be questioned. Bring that diplomat in front," Maryam said.

Rebel Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Member of National Assembly (MNA) Aamir Liaquat Hussain claimed that Imran Khan told him that he will remove Army Chief General Bajwa.

Farah Khan, a close friend of Prime Minister Imran Khan's third wife Bushra Bibi, has fled the country following reports that she could be arrested if a new government is installed in Pakistan.

Her husband Ahsan Jamil Gujjar has already left for the US. Farah left for Dubai on Sunday, The Express Tribune newspaper reported on Sunday. Read Full Story.

A group of Pakistani dissidents on Tuesday expressed "trepidation and worry" over the political situation in Pakistan, saying that all norms of civility, democratic behaviour, parliamentary ethics, and adherence to the Constitution" have been thrown to the winds by the government of Imran Khan.

Even after losing the support of a majority in parliament, Imran Khan unlawfully dissolved parliament. The (former) Prime Minister still enjoys the perks of office such as using State Television to send out political messages and criticising the Opposition, said a statement issued by South Asians Against Terrorism and for Human Rights (SAATH), a grouping of pro-democracy Pakistanis.

The opposition in Pakistan is delaying elections as Imran Khan is more popular than in 2018, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry told Republic TV in an exclusive interview on Tuesday. As the Law and I&B Minister in the erstwhile PTI-led government, Chaudhry had invoked Article 5 of the Pakistan Constitution before the no-trust vote after which Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri rejected the motion without voting.

To begin with, he downplayed source-based reports which suggested that the Election Commission of Pakistan had expressed its inability to conduct fresh elections in a period of 90 days. Read Full Story.

In a major embarrassment for Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan Security Agency has claimed that no evidence of US conspiracy to overthrow the PTI government was found.

As Pakistan's economic woes continue, the country's trade deficit has been on the rise for nine consecutive months owing to an unprecedented increase in imports while exports stagnated at around USD 2.5 billion to USD 2.8 billion a month.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data, the country's trade deficit widened 70 percent year-on-year to USD 35.4 billion during the nine months through March as imports near USD 60 billion, reported Dawn.

Pakistan's Election Commission on Tuesday said that it was prepared to hold general elections within three months, rejecting the reports that claimed holding the electoral exercise was not possible in 90 days, local media reported.

Earlier, Pakistani based media reported that Election Commission won't be able to conduct general elections in the country within three months due to various legal and procedural challenges.

Quoting a senior official of the country's poll body, Dawn newspaper reported that preparations for the general elections would require at least six months.

The claim was rejected in a written statement issued by the ECP.
 

As the political crisis in Pakistan turned into a constitutional crisis, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) funding to the country is expected to hit another 'pause'.

IMF's resident representative in Islamabad, Esther Perez Ruiz said that the fund would engage once the new government is formed. The fund of USD 6 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for Pakistan hit a deadlock when Prime Minister Imran Khan announced a major relief package involving a tax amnesty scheme and energy price cuts, as reported by Dawn.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday med Punjab Chief Ministerial Candidate Chaudhary Pervez Elahi at Lahore. The Punjab Assembly session will take place on April 16.

Outgoing Leader of the Opposition Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday alleged that he hadn't received "any letter" from President Arif Alvi regarding the proposal of names for the appointment of caretaker prime minister, Dawn reported

Minutes after AG Punjab told Supreme Court that the hearing will be held on Wednesday at 11.30 AM, Deputy Speaker adjourned session for 10 days stating "vandalism in assembly" as reason.

The United States supports peaceful upholding of constitutional and democratic principles in Pakistan, its official has said.

It is the case around the world. We do not support one political party over another. We support the broader principles, the principles of rule of law, of equal justice under the law, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price.

Price reiterated that there is no truth in the allegations that the United States is interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and tried to topple the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
 

A close friend of Imran Khan's wife has fled Pakistan. Her friend is on the radar in the six billion Pakistani rupees transfer scandal.

Pakistan Supreme Court adjourns hearing of dissolution of National Assembly; "Constitution does not interfere in the proceedings of Parliament" says CJI.

The hearing of the Supreme Court on the rejection of the no-confidence motion by the Deputy Speaker has been adjourned to 3.30 pm. 

Clearing the air, the Election Commission of Pakistan clarified that it has not issued any statement regarding the election. This came after media reports suggested that the EC had expressed its inability to conduct elections in a period of three months. 

Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood has been summoned by Prime Minister Imran Khan. The meeting will take place at the Bani Gala residence of Imran Khan. Later in the day, he will visit Lahore, meet PTI Members of the Punjab Assembly and address the party cadre.

The Supreme Court has summoned the record of the National Assembly proceedings of March 31 and directed the Speaker's counsel Naeem Bukhari to provide the record. After Raza Rabbani finished his arguments, PML(N)'s counsel Makhdoom Ali Khan stated that the no-confidence motion has the signatures of 152 members. He also stated that the Speaker allowed the moving of the no-confidence motion as 161 members supported the same. While observing that under Rule 37, the no-confidence motion was to be debated on March 31, Makhdoom Ali Khan said that the resolution was not debated on March 31. 

Speaking exclusively to Republic TV, former Pakistan Minister Fawad Chaudhry lashed out at the opposition for its stance after the rejection of the no-confidence motion. 

Expressing solidarity with the opposition, the Sindh High Court Association termed the decision of the Deputy Speaker to dismiss the no-confidence motion without voting and the President's move to dissolve the National Assembly "unconstitutional". It also urged Justice (retired) Gulzar Ahmed to decline his nomination as caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan. Moreover, it requested the Supreme Court full court to hear the matter. 

During the hearing, PPP advocate Raza Rabbani highlighted the Election Commission's statement that elections are not possible in three months. He mentioned that the opposition will try to complete the arguments today itself so that a decision can be given. At this juncture, the Chief Justice said that the bench wants a speedy decision but after hearing the views of all parties. Rabbani argued that the voting on a no-confidence motion can be stopped only with the resignation of the Prime Minister. Moreover, he stressed that the Prime Minister cannot dissolve the Assembly with the no-confidence motion in place. 

Pakistan's powerful Army has contradicted Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks accusing America of hatching a conspiracy to topple his government, saying there was no evidence of interference in the country's internal matters. Official sources told The Express Tribune that a wrong impression was given about the military leadership endorsing the view of the government. Reportedly, the military leadership had not signed on the minutes of the meeting. The source said that there was no evidence of any linkage between the vote of no confidence and the diplomatic cable. 

Speaking to the media, PML(N) president Shehbaz Sharif asked the Army Chief and the DG ISI to bring the evidence of treason against the opposition to the Supreme Court if it exists otherwise make it clear that the opposition was not involved in any treason or foreign conspiracy. Meanwhile, PPP advocate Raza Rabbani urged the SC to summon the diplomat who wrote the threat letter. 

Even as the SC continues to hear the case on the no-confidence motion, ex-Pakistan PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi demanded that Imran Khan be booked for treason. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Tuesday, Abbasi contended that this situation is a test for the Supreme Court. Maintaining that fresh election is not an issue, he made it clear that no government has the right to trample upon the Constitution. Latching on to the allegations levelled by Khan's ex-aide Aleem Khan, Abbasi also claimed that there was rampant corruption in the Punjab province ruled by PTI. 

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has convened the meeting of the Central Executive Committee and the Parliamentary Board. The ticket distribution process will kick off today. 

Taking to Twitter, PTI Senator Faisal Javed Khan revealed, "PTI Islamabad protest will be held today at 9 pm in F-Nine Park. Special invitation to families - Come and raise your voice for the truth. Don't make any compromise."

Pakistan's Election Commission expressed its inability to hold general elections within three months due to legal, constitutional and logistical challenges, according to the Dawn newspaper. A senior official of the Election Commission was quoted as saying that the preparations for the general elections would require 6 months due to the fresh delimitation of constituencies and the challenge of bringing district-and constituency-wise electoral rolls in conformity. The official said procurement of election material, arrangement for ballot papers and appointment and training of polling staff were among the other inherent challenges.

He said that under the law, ballot papers with watermark were to be used which were not available in the country and hence they would have to be imported and revealed that the top election body had proposed to amend the law to provide for ballot papers with ‘security features’, instead of ‘water mark'. The official added that inviting bids and scrutinising financial and technical quotations would also require some time. About the election material, he said some two million stamp pads would be required for around 100,000 polling stations.

As per Radio Pakistan, the International Monetary Fund has assured Pakistan that it would continue its support once a new government is formed. In a brief statement, it clarified that there is no concept of suspension within the IMF programme.  Meanwhile, in a tweet, the Finance Ministry said that Finance Division and IMF remain engaged in data sharing and reform discussions as part of the Extended Fund Facility. It also rejected the speculation about the suspension of the IMF programme.

In a massive charge, PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari accused Imran Khan of taking money from India and Israel to run PTI. Maintaining that Khan has himself accepted foreign funding, he lambasted the former for calling 195 MNAs 'traitors'. He also rubbished the foreign conspiracy allegation peddled by the Pakistan PM and his party. 

Addressing a function, PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari remarked, "If the court's decision is in favor of democracy, we will carry out electoral reforms by restoring the parliament and completing the no-confidence motion. If not, we will go to the polls. We are ready for elections in any case. "

Pakistan President Arif Alvi wrote a letter to former Leader of Opposition Shehbaz Sharif asking him to agree on Imran Khan's name for the caretaker PM's post- Justice (retd.) Gulzar Ahmed or propose a different name by April 6. Alvi warned Sharif that the appointment of the caretaker PM will be processed in accordance with the Constitution if no response is received within the stipulated time. 

Pakistan's National Security Advisor Moeed Yusuf resigned on Monday amid the ongoing political and constitutional crisis in the coup-prone country. "Today, I leave extremely satisfied and content, most of all because I know that the NSA’s office and the NSD are vibrant institutions with an exceptional team that will continue to make Pakistan proud," he tweeted. He thanked Prime Minister Imran Khan and all others who allowed the office of the National Security Advisor and the National Security Division/Strategic Policy Planning Cell to contribute to the national cause.

"Few individuals are fortunate enough to get an opportunity to serve their country in a high office. Even fewer get to do so at my age. By the grace of Allah, not only did I receive this honour, but it has been an incredible two-and-a-half-year journey that I will always cherish," he said in a series of tweets.His resignation comes a day after President Arif Alvi dissolved the National Assembly, minutes after National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri dismissed the opposition's no-confidence motion against embattled Prime Minister Khan on Sunday.

Source: PTI

The Supreme Court of Pakistan held a hearing on Monday regarding Prime Minister Imran Khan’s appeal to dissolve Parliament which stirred political turmoil within the country. The justices adjourned for the day without making a decision. Opposition lawmakers have accused Khan's PTI party and alleged that they were “couping against the country and the Constitution.” Imran Khan's party lawmakers said that the Supreme court "has no authority to intervene in the National Assembly’s business."

A Pakistani court on Monday dismissed a petition of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to cancel the pre-arrest bail of the join Opposition's nominee for the slot of prime minister Shehbaz Sharif in a PKR 14 billion money laundering case.

The court, however, said that he and other suspects will be indicted on April 11.

The court's verdict has come as a blow for Prime Minister Imran Khan who was keen to see Shehbaz behind bars in the ongoing constitutional crisis triggered by the dissolution of the National Assembly.
 

President of Pakistan Arif Alvi writes to outgoing Leader of Opposition (LoP) Shahbaz Sharif to propose the name of caretaker Prime Minister. Otherwise, former Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmad (PTI's proposal) will be made caretaker PM.

PTI dissident Abdul Aleem Khan on Monday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan and accused him of not being "sincere to the nation".

"I have supported the PTI with great loyalty, hard work and kept my ego aside. We thought there would be a Naya Pakistan in the face of Imran Khan," he said, reported Dawn.

A day after Deputy Speaker dismissed the no-trust motion, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Fazlur Rehman said that the Opposition could move toward elections once the Constitution has been upheld in the country.
 

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Monday assured Pakistan that it would continue its support to the country "once the new government is formed", Geo News reported.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Monday urged Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar to clarify the proceedings of the National Security Council (NSC) meeting held last week.

"ExPM IK is using ‘foreign conspiracy’ to justify his coup. Will @OfficialDGISPR clarify did NSC meeting declare the 197 members of NA traitors and part of a foreign plot? Can foreign office or defense ministry produce any official correspondence between 7-27th on foreign sazish," he said.
 

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that he will lead the PTI's protest rally in Islamabad on Monday night against the "turncoats" who are involved in the "foreign conspiracy" allegedly hatched against his government.

"I will join the protest demonstration being organized outside the Red Zone of Islamabad on Monday night to expose turncoats, who change their loyalties for the sake of money, and foreign conspiracy against his government," he said while urging the public to stage protests in other cities also, reported ARY News.

The Pakistani Prime Minister made these comments while addressing a live question and answer session on Monday. "I have learned a lesson and will never award tickets to turncoats in future elections," he added.

On the topic of the National Security Committee (NSC), former Foreign Minister of Pakistan Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that the national body is 'very important'. Speaking to the media, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI) leader said that it was in the meeting of the NSC that the decision was taken to issue a demarche to the United States over the alleged secret letter that Imran Khan buttressed as proof of a foreign conspiracy to dislodge his government. Read Full Story.

Under the scanner of the Supreme Court, former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan issued an address on Monday. In his address, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Islam (PTI) supremo underlined before the Pakistanis how the Opposition led by Shehbaz Sharif was all critical of him and his cabinet and had often claimed that they would be dealt with by the public. The cricketer-turned-politician stated that the Opposition had often claimed that 'eggs and tomatoes would be thrown at them' because of how they had 'ruined the country.' Read Full Story.

Moeed Yusuf has resigned as National Security Advisor (NSA) of Pakistan. "Today, I leave extremely satisfied and content, most of all because I know that the NSA’s office and the NSD are vibrant institutions with an exceptional team that will continue to make Pakistan proud," Yusuf said.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said that the Opposition is seeking to bring National Reconciliation Ordinance 2 to get away with their corrupt practices and added that they have only won the match by siding with the umpire.

Imran Khan told reporters, "Over 90 percent of corruption cases occurred during their regime. They want to send billions of rupees abroad. They want to build their empires. They want to meddle with Election commission. They have only won the matches by siding with the umpires."

He added that the opposition has been seeking regime change for past 3.5 years and now when he has called for early elections they want to go to the Supreme Court.

Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has pitched for retired chief justice Gulzar Ahmed as caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan after the dissolution of the National Assembly on Sunday.

Pakistan's Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial on Monday said that a "reasonable order" would be issued on the legality of the current political situation in the country as the apex court heard the dismissal of a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan and the subsequent dissolution of Parliament by the President on the advice of the embattled premier. The matter has been adjourned till noon on Tuesday.
 

The hearing has been adjourned in Pakistan Supreme Court till 12 noon on Tuesday in the Political crisis case.

Imran Khan to stage a protest today evening outside Parliament against Opposition’s attempt to destabilise Pakistan on directions of Foreign Powers.

During public interaction, Imran Khan questioned why the Opposition moved to Supreme Court even after the fresh polls were announced.

Governor Sindh and Governor Punjab on Monday called on Imran Khan at his residence in Islamabad amid the political crisis in the country.

The United States has officially denied any conspiracy in the Pakistan government crisis. "No truth to Imran Khan's allegations, closely monitoring developments," US State Department said.

Appearing for PPP, Farooq Naek asserted that National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaisar was aware of the illegal move of dismissing the no-confidence motion and that’s why he choose to remain away from proceedings. He also reckoned that there could have been discussion after Fawad Chaudhary’s intervention on Sunday. 

Hitting out at the opposition, Zartaj Gul Wazir- the Minister in the Imran Khan-led government said, "The fabric of the no-confidence drama is similar to the Americans who were shaking the strings and some political dwarfs in Pakistan were turning their puppets into big lions."

The Pakistan Chief Justice questioned the move of the chair (Speaker/Dy Speaker) of not allowing a discussion before voting. He questioned how the date of voting on the no-confidence motion was directly given. PPP's Farooq Naek made it clear that the Speaker did not allow the discussion on the no-trust motion. Justice Muneeb Akhtar asked, "Under which rule Speaker gave the order?"

As per sources, the Imran Khan government is considering the option of imposing Governor's Rule in Punjab if PTI falls short of numbers in Punjab. While the election of the CM was scheduled on April 3, the session was adjourned to April 6. PML(Q) leader Pervaiz Elahi is PTI's official candidate while the opposition nominee is Hamza Shehbaz.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, "Ex-PM IK is using ‘foreign conspiracy’ to justify his coup. Will DG ISPR clarify- did the NSC meeting declare the 197 members of NA traitors and part of a foreign plot? Can the Foreign Office or Defence Ministry produce any official correspondence between 7-27th (March) on foreign conspiracy?" 

Farooq Naek who has been a former law minister and is affiliated with PPP is representing the opposition side. When Naek demanded a full court hearing, the Pakistan SC CJ dismissed this saying, "If you have objections on any judge, tell the chair. Full court delayed many cases. If no trust then we too will leave". Thereafter, Naek expressed full confidence in the bench. 

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari convened a meeting of the Central Executive Committee in Islamabad on Tuesday, April 5. The meeting of the Central Executive Committee of the Pakistan Peoples Party will take important decisions regarding the political situation in the country.

During the hearing, lawyer Babar Awan mentioned that elections are being conducted. Snubbing him further, SC CJ Umar Ata Bandial told me to not speak politics in court. 

Pakistan SC CJ Umar Ata Bandial stated that the bench will look into the constitutional legality of the decision taken by the national assembly Deputy Speaker. He also revealed that an appropriate order will be issued today itself. Moreover, he asked Babar Awan to not make any political statement in court. 

In a setback for Imran Khan, the Federal Investigation Agency's plea seeking rejection of the bail of Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz was dismissed. After assuming charge as the Law Minister on April 2, Fawad Chaudhry had directed the FIA to file a plea seeking the incarceration of Shehbaz Sharif, who is the opposition's PM candidate and Hamza Shehbaz. 

From the government's side, PTI lawyer Babar Awan is putting facts before the larger bench of the SC that the decision taken by the National Assembly Deputy Speaker is in line with the powers of the Speaker inside Parliament. He drew the attention of the court to the order of a two-judge bench on March 21.

A Pakistan Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justices Ijaz Ul Ahsan, Mazhar Alam Miankhel, Munib Akhtar and Jamal Khan Mandokhail has commenced hearing the pleas pertaining to the rejection of the no-confidence motion against Imran Khan. Representatives of all political parties are present in the court. 

Former Pakistan Law Minister Fawad Chaudhry remarked, "The people of Pakistan are now ready for elections. If Shehbaz Sharif does not become part of the caretaker setup process, then it is his wish. No political party escapes from the election the way the opposition is running". 

Pakistan President Arif Alvi wrote a letter to Imran Khan and Leader of Opposition Shehbaz Sharif to propose a suitable person for appointment as caretaker Prime Minister. He conveyed to both the leaders that in case they don't agree on any person to be appointed as the caretaker Prime Minister within three days of the dissolution of the National Assembly, they shall forward two nominees each to a Committee to be immediately constituted by the Speaker of the National Assembly. This will comprise eight members of the outgoing National Assembly or the Senate, or both, having equal representation from the Treasury and the Opposition, to be nominated by the PM and the LoP respectively. Until then, Imran Khan will continue to remain the PM. 

Addressing a press conference, PML(N) chief Shehbaz Sharif contended that the Constitution was violated by Imran Khan and his group. He said, "Motion (No-Confidence) was submitted on 8 March, if some message had come from the US - they claim 7th March as the date - & they had an objection, why did they not raise it on 24th"? He added, "This was all an afterthought of Imran Niazi and his group, they could not face their loss that was going to take place as per the Constitution and the Law". 

Addressing a press conference, former Minister Asad Umar revealed that a meeting of the PTI's Central Parliamentary Board has been convened on Tuesday to begin the process of preparing for the elections and issuing tickets. 

Caretaker Pakistan PM Imran Khan has called a meeting of PTI members, sources revealed. The party will discuss further strategies including that of the upcoming polls. 

A Pakistan Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justices Ijaz Ul Ahsan, Mazhar Alam Miankhel, Munib Akhtar and Jamal Khan Mandokhail will hear the pleas pertaining to the rejection of the no-confidence motion against Imran Khan. The matter will come up for hearing at 1.30 pm today. 

In a key development, a press conference of the joint opposition will take place at 11.30 am today. This comes hours ahead of the Supreme Court hearing on the pleas challenging the Deputy Speaker's decision to dismiss the no-confidence motion without voting. 

As per sources, caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and Governor Omar Cheema have been summoned to Islamabad. They will call on Imran Khan who has been asked to continue as the PM until a caretaker Prime Minister is appointed by the President. 

Caretaker Pakistan PM Imran Khan will interact with the people of Pakistan via telephone today. As per sources, the PTI chairman will begin his public outreach programme at 3.30 pm today. A day earlier, Pakistan President Arif Alvi dissolved the National Assembly on Khan's recommendation and asked him to continue in office until a caretaker PM is appointed. 

As per sources, PTI will send the names of the caretaker PM to the opposition today. A meeting was held at the Bani Gala residence of Imran Khan to consider the names of the caretaker PM. Justice (Retd) Azmat Sheikh’s name is also being considered for caretaker PM along with others, sources added.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz PML(N) supremo Nawaz Sharif s office in London came under attack on Sunday night during which three persons were wounded, Pakistani media reported. According to details, 15 to 20 persons, some of them wearing face masks were involved in the attack. A scuffle broke out between attackers and PML(N) workers present there due to which three persons sustained injuries. As per sources, the police arrested two attackers and two PML(N) workers.

Former Pakistan Minister Farrukh Habib predicted that FIA's request for cancellation of Shehbaz Sharif's bail in the Ramzan Sugar Mills case will be approved today. Sharif is the opposition's candidate for the PM post. 

Taking to Twitter, Pakistan senator Faisal Javed Khan announced that PTI will start celebrating after Iftar in Islamabad Blue Area (before Red Zone) from today. He said, "All workers and families are invited to join the celebration. The celebration will continue for one week". 

The Former Cricket captain of Pakistan, Wasim Akram has come out in support of Imran Khan after the president dismissed the trust vote against him and dissolved the National Assembly. He shared an image on Twitter featuring Khan stating, "The Game Changer." Wasim Akram, who is now a cricket commentator, has been rallying behind Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in his quest for power.

President of Pakistan Arif Alvi has stated that Imran Khan will remain the Prime Minister of the country till a caretaker PM is appointed in accordance with Article 224 A of the Pakistan Constitution.

Imran Khan, named Donald Lu, a senior US diplomat, as the person allegedly involved in a "foreign conspiracy" to destabilise his administration through a no-confidence motion proposed by the opposition. Addressing a meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders after the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly rejected the no-confidence motion on national security grounds, he said that foreign interference was made into the country's internal politics through a no-confidence motion.

He then alleged that Donald Lu, the US State Department's senior South Asia official, was involved in a "foreign conspiracy" to destabilise his regime.

(PTI)

While speaking to the media, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan emphasised that he will not repeat the mistake he made in the 2018 election, when he gave tickets to the wrong individuals and lost many seats as a result. He went on to say that the tickets should have been provided to party members or to someone who cares about Pakistan and thinks about the country.

Former interior minister Sheikh Rasheed predicted on Sunday that Imran Khan would stay in power for another 15 days, just hours after the former cricketer-turned-politician dissolved the National Assembly in a contentious action. He further stated that he met Khan after he suggested dissolving Parliament's lower house and calling for fast elections. Rasheed also stated that electronic voting machines would not be used in the country's next general elections.

(PTI)

After a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan was rejected and the National Assembly was dissolved, Pakistan's opposition groups have been debating their next steps, according to the media reports.

Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif claimed that if Imran Khan and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaisar's administration falls, they will be tried under Article 6 of the Constitution. Shehbaz's statement comes just minutes after Qasim Suri called the no-confidence vote "unconstitutional."

Pakistan Cabinet Secretariat issued notification for the removal of Imran Khan as the Prime Minister. Imran Khan de-notified as the Prime Minister. 

Under Article 94 of the Constitution, the President directed the Prime Minister to continue his work.

The meeting of the joint opposition has started in Islamabad. The legal move of Joint Opposition and decision on Care Taker PM agenda of meeting.

Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf to send names of caretaker Prime Minister to opposition on Monday, April 3. Meeting is underway in Bani Gala residence of PM Imran Khan to consider names of caretaker PM.

The United Opposition of Pakistan has issued a joint statement amid the political crisis after the no-trust motion was rejected and the assembly was dissolved. It accused Imran Khan of committing an open coup against the country. The opposition said that Punishment for Imran Khan has been enshrined in Article 6 of the Constitution.

Pakistan Deputy Attorney General Kashif Sarwar Paracha has resigned from his position on Sunday amid the political crisis in Pakistan after the no-trust motion was rejected and the assembly was dissolved.

Pakistan's Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial said on Sunday that all orders and actions initiated by the prime minister and the president regarding the dissolution of the National Assembly will be subject to the court's order as he adjourned for one day the hearing of the high-profile case.

Pakistan President Arif Alvi earlier dissolved the National Assembly (NA) on advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, minutes after Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri blocked a no-confidence motion against the embattled premier. Read Full Story.

"Astonished by reaction of PDM to our calling for general elections. They have been crying hoarse abt how our govt has failed & lost support of the ppl so why the fear of elections now? Democrats go to the ppl for support," Pakistan PM Imran Khan tweeted.

"Isn't it better for PDM to accept elections rather than being part of a foreign conspiracy for regime change; and indulging in blatant purchasing of loyalties thereby destroying our nation's moral fibre?" he added.

Giving Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a taste of his own medicine, the Opposition on Sunday referred to him as 'Cherry Blossom' in the National Assembly while sloganeering against the ruling PTI. In the visuals accessed by Republic, the Members of the National Assembly can be seen in tandem calling Imran Khan after the renowned shoe polish company, as a few polished their shoes to mock the incumbent Pakistan Prime Minister. 

It is pertinent to mention here that on March 26, two days before the Opposition trailed the no-confidence motion, Imran Khan had nicknamed Shehbaz Sharif 'Cherry Blossom'. Addressing a public gathering, the incumbent Pakistan Prime had said," whenever he sees boots, he starts to polish them... I have nicknamed Shehbaz Sharif 'Cherry blossom' today. Read Full Story.

Pakistan's Supreme Court issues notice to Prime Minister Imran Khan, President Arif Alvi, country's Defence & Interior Ministry as it adjourns the hearing of the opposition's case till Monday; urges all parties to maintain peace amid situation.

The Supreme Court has issued notice to Pakistan Attorney-General Khalid Jawed Khan amid the political crisis.

The Supreme Court has issued notice to all parties in the Assembly case. The apex court has also rejected interim stay on the ruling of the Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri.

Former Pakistan Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry said that the entire country is standing with Imran Khan. "The fake of Pakistan will be divided by 22 crore people," he said.

Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial-led bench, comprising Justices Ejaz-ul-Haq and Muhammad Ali Mazhar, has adjourned the hearing in the Assembly case till Monday.  The opposition had filed a plea seeking a review of the “unconstitutional” ruling given by National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri.

Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial-led bench, comprising Justices Ejaz-ul-Haq and Muhammad Ali Mazhar, will hear the Opposition's plea seeking a review of the “unconstitutional” ruling given by National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri.

Pakistan Opposition has decided to stage a dharna in National Assembly till the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan is not held.

After National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri dismissed the no-confidence motion against Khan, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Sunday said that the Opposition members have decided to protest against the "unconstitutional" move in the National Assembly and have decided to not leave the floor till their Constitutional rights are not given to them.

"Government has violated the Constitution by not allowing voting on the no-confidence motion. United Opposition is not leaving Parliament. Our lawyers are on their way to Supreme Court. We call on all institutions to protect, uphold, defend and implement the Constitution of Pakistan," Bilawal tweeted.

Former Pakistan's Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar on Sunday lambasted Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership after he was sacked from office and said he was asked to do "unconstitutional things".

My action has surprised the Opposition. Had I revealed about this surprise yesterday, they would not have been so bothered today, said Pakistan PM Imran Khan as he reiterated the "foreign conspiracy" claim during his address after the National Assembly of Pakistan was dissolved, today.

Pakistan Supreme Court will begin hearing after 5.30 PM (IST) following the demand of the Opposition leaders to review the “unconstitutional” ruling given by National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri.

Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, the President of the Pakistan Democratic Movement, has called Prime Minister Imran Khan a fraud after the deputy speaker Qasim Suri dismissed the Opposition's no-confidence motion and Khan dissolved the Assembly.

"The entire country knows that No-Confidence Motion against PM was rejected using a letter and has pushed the country to the political crisis. It never happened in Pakistan," Rehman said.

"Imran Khan left behind dictators. He hasn't lost only but ran away after losing. He tried to stick to PM's house without caring for anything. His act is beyond madness.  We repeat and alerted people that he is not capable to be PM of Pakistan and he used illegal means to run away from No-Confidence Motion," he added.

"Political parties never run away from elections, the people are the real power of political parties. Why are they afraid to go public, why are they shedding tears? If there are lion cubs, then come and contest us in the election," says Law Minister Fawad Chaudhry.

Addressing a press briefing, PTI leader Sheikh Rasheed claimed that he had asked Prime Minister Imran Khan about implementing an emergency. He also claimed that he has vacated the office and had moved to his old residence.

He said that as per the law, Imran Khan will remain in power for 15 more days.

"Inshallah we will surprise the government before evening and we are sure that the Supreme Court will give the right decision," JWP chief Nawabzada Shahzain Bugti said. His party was earlier in coalition with Imran Khan's PTI.

"Mark their faces. This is the group, the mafia, that has attacked & abrogated the constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. They all must be tried under article 6," Maryam Nawaz Sharif tweeted.

"Imran Khan will save Pakistan...Whoever is America's friend is a traitor," sloganeering underway outside Pakistan Parliament after the National Assembly of Pakistan was dissolved, this afternoon.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan will issue notice to political parties. This development comes after Opposition leaders moved the apex court against the dissolution of the National Assembly of Pakistan by the speaker.

Pakistan Opposition will seek nullification of the Speaker's decision in the Supreme Court. The PPP delegation will also demand a no-confidence motion against Imran Khan today.

No-confidence motion against National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser on 4.30 PM IST April 6, said Ayaz Sadiq, Opposition’s speaker  The session adjourned till April 6.

197 Pakistan MNAs vote against Imran Khan in the symbolic and inconsequential no-trust vote, well over the 172-vote halfway mark. They have also declared Shehbaz Sharif as Prime Minister.

The Pakistan Army has released a statment saying that today's happening was a political procedure and that it has nothing to do with it. The Pakistan National Assembly was dissolved today after the dismissal of the no-confidence vote against PM Imran Khan. 

The Pakistan Supreme Court has taken suo-moto cognisance of the events inside the Parliament following the dismissal of the no-trust vote. Chief Justice of Pakistan Omar Ata Bandial constituted a special bench to address the political turmoil in the country. 

Earlier today, the National Assembly was dissolved by the President amid calls for fresh elections by the Imran Khan government. The Opposition has decided to approach the top court against the dimissal of the no-confidence motion.

The Pakistan Supreme Court is likely to hold urgent hearing on the political turmoil in the country after the National Assembly was dissolved today. Chief Justice of Pakistan Omar Ata Bandial has reportedly summoned senior judges ahead of the hearing. A special bench has been constituted to address the matter. 

Despite dissolution of the National Assembly, the Opposition has decided to begin its own proceedings, by installing another Speaker in the Parliament. High drama was witnessed inside the House, following the dismissal of the no-trust vote that was likely to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan from office. The Opposition, snubbed by the government has now decided to carry on with its own proceedings. 

The Parliament has given the right to vote to Pakistanis abroad. The Assembly has been dissolved. "Traitors cannot take back the right to vote from Pakistanis abroad," said Pakistan Minister Farrukh Habib while making the announcement.

A law was passed in this regard earlier but was put on halt by the Election Commission. Following the dissolution of the National Assembly, the Parliament has granted non-resident Pakistanis to cast their vote. 

The government has demanded re-elections in 90 days. 

Following the dissolution of the National Assembly, Prime Minister Imran Khan's Cabinet has also been dissolved. However, the PM will continue his duties under Article 224 of the constitution until fresh elections are held in the nation. 

Pakistan President Arif Alvi has dissolved the National Assembly, paving the way for fresh elections to be hel in the country. A notification in this regard will be issued shortly.

Pakistan Minister Zartaj Gul Wazir has said that General Elections would be held within the next 90 days in the country.

Following the dismissal of no-trust vote, the President of Pakistan is bound to dissolve the Assembly under Article 58. The President could make the announcement anytime now. Meanwhile, the Opposition has lodged massive protest inside the Assembly, against the Speaker's decision to declare their no-trust motion 'null and void'.

Ahead of the no-confidence vote, Prime Minister Imran Khan had already accepted the resignations of 145 MNAs at a PTI Parliamentary Committee on Saturday. 

After the dismissal of the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan, the ruling PTI is likely to push for fresh elections to be held in 3 months time. 

Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said the Opposition will challenge the dismissal of the no-trust vote in the Supreme Court today.  

In a massive development following Pakistan Minister Fawad Chaudhry's argument, the no-trust vote has been disallowed in the National Assembly. Chaudhry claimed that the no-trust vote was a foriegn funded conspiracy, adding that Pakistan government was not a puppet in their hand.

The Deputy Speaker, reiterating Chaudhry's statement, declared the no-confidence motion ‘null and void’.

This decision has enabled PM Imran Khan to dissolve assembly and call for elections without being out of power.

Moments after the no-confidence vote was dismissed in the Pakistan Assembly, PM Imran Khan, in an address to the nation, sought the dissolution of the National Assembly and called for re-elections to be held in the country. Khan said he has sent recommendation to President of Pakistan to dissolve the Assembly and announce fresh elections.

Spekaing in the Question Hour of the Assembly, Pakistan Minister Fawad Chaudhry claimed "foreign hand behind regime change operation" in the country. 

The National Assembly session has commenced, wherein a no-trust motion willl be tabled to oust Imran Khan from office. 

As the National Assembly session goes underway in Pakistan, the police has started arresting protesters gathered outside the Parliament. Section 144 has been imposed in the federal capital, fearing clashes during the no-trust vote to oust PM Imrsan Khan.  Three PTI female workers were arrested by Islamabad Police outside from the Parliament gate. 

In yet another setback to Imran Khan ahead of no-trust vote, one more rebel PTI leader has joined the Opposition camp. Salik Hussain, nephew of Parvez Elahi has decided to vote against PTI in National Assembly. Besides, 22 rebel leaders have also arrived in the assembly. 

The Opposition members clapped on benches in the National Assembly to welcome PMLN leader Shahbaz Sharif, who is likely to replace Imran Khan as Prime Minister following the no-trust vote. The Opposition has claimed support of 174 lawmakers in the 342-member National Assembly while Imran Khan's part is losing majority by 11 votes. 

Imran Khan has not yet reached the Pakistan Assembly. Reports state that he is still in his Chambers, and will monitor the assembly session from there. The leader is staring at a no-trust vote that could oust him from the Prime Minister's Office. 

In a key development ahead of the no-confidence vote, the Imran Khan government has sacked Punjab's Governor, Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar, from his post. The move is perceieved to pacify rebels of the Jahangir Tareen Group and Aleem Khan Group in the PTI government. Omar Sarfaraz Cheema has now been appointed to the post. 

Prime Minister Imran Khan has lost majority in the Pakistan Parliament, as he lacks support of 11 lawmakers, required to win the no-confidence motion. The Opposition, on the other hand, claims the support of 174 lawmakers in the 342-member National Assembly.

Here's the breakdown of numbers in Pakistan National Assembly

Government: 165

• PTI : 155
• PMLQ : 05
• GDA : 03
• AML : 01
• BAP : 01

Opposition : 176

• PMLN : 84
• PPP : 56
• JUI : 15
• ANP : 01
• BNP : 04
• JWP : 01
• BAP : 04
• MQM: 07
• IND : 04

Minutes ahead of the no-trust motion being tabled in the Pakistan Parliament, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed claimed that the opposition plans to get Imran Khan arrested upon losing the no-confidence vote.

Ahead of the no-trust vote, Republic has learned that Prime Minister Imran Khan is short of 11 votes in the Pakistan Parliament, thus losing majority against the United Opposition. As per sources, 176 lawmakers are in favour of the Oppositition, while only 165 are with Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf in the 342-member National Assembly. 

The United Opposition has moved a no-confidence motion against National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser ahead of the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan. 

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said people of Pakistan have been waiting for a surprise for three and a half years, but there will be no new surprises. He noted that prime minister Imran Khan has removed his governor before leaving.

The National Assembly Secretariat has requested security personnel from the Senate Secretariat that Government and opposition members may clash during the no-confidence vote. Additional staff has been called in from the Senate to quell the unrest.  Deviant members of the PTI face security concerns from government members.

The district administration has imposes Section 144 and completely banned pillion riding in Islamabad as the National Assembly session will start at 11:30 hours, Pakistan's Geo News reported. PM Imran Khan is set to face the no-confidence vote in the National Assembly today.

On the verge of ouster from the Prime Minister's office, Imran Khan held a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee today and discussed options in case of win/loss scenario.

1. Loss in No-Confidence Motion : In the scenario that Imran Khan loses the no-trust vote he has discussed that there will be an mass resignations of PTI Member of National Assembly (MNAs) and Member of Provincial Assembly (MPAs) across Pakistan. In that case, half of the elected seats will be left vacant and the country will be bound to hold elections. This will keep the joint opposition away from power for long.

2. If Imran Khan wins or Opposition takes back No-Confidence Motion : In the scenario that Imran Khan survives the no-confidence motion he will soon declare elections in Pakistan and will go ahead with “PAKISTAN vs US-FOREIGN POWERS” as  his agenda for polls.

PML(N) leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif called for the arrest of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan after the alleged attack on her father and former PM Nawaz Sharif in London. Sharif was allegedly attacked in UK by an activist of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. 

As per the media reports, Sharif's bodyguard was also injured in the attack. Notably, the former PM's brother Shahbaz Sharif is in the race to become the next premier after the likely ouster of Imran Khan today.

Ahead of the deceive no-confidence motion against Imran Khan today, Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa has indicated that Pakistan is ready to talk with India to resolve all outstanding issues, including the Kashmir issue.

"Pakistan continues to believe in using dialogue and diplomacy to resolve all outstanding issues, including the Kashmir dispute and is ready to move forward on this front if India also agrees to do so," Pakistan's COAS was quoted as saying by Dawn Newspaper.

He made these remarks on Saturday during the Islamabad Security Dialogue.

Amid fears of violence and clashes due to the no-confidence vote against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday, thousands of security personnel have been deployed in Islamabad.

The security has been put on high alert and the authorities have started sealing the ket zones in the federal capital.

A total of 10,000 security personnel have been deployed in Islamabad's red zone, as per SAMAA TV.

The security measure was taken after Imran Khan called on his supporters to launch "peaceful" protests in face of defeat in a no-confidence vote in the country's National Assembly on Sunday.

The people of Karachi show their support for Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, stating they are with the Prime Minister.

A day before the decisive vote on the no-confidence motion against him, Imran Khan asked Pakistan's youth to hold peaceful protests against a "foreign conspiracy" purportedly hatched against his government but warned them against criticising the Pakistan Army.

Khan said he has "more than one plan" for Sunday's vote in the National Assembly on the no-confidence resolution against him during a live question-and-answer session. Khan described the conflict as a battle for the country's future, claiming that Pakistan was at a critical juncture.

(PTI)

Security has been ramped up in the Red Zone area, which is close to Pakistan's parliament. Reports suggest that more than 4500 soldiers of the Frontier Corps and over 5500 Rangers of Pakistan are deployed in the area.

The National Assembly session will be held at the Parliament House at 11:30 pm (local time). Voting on the no-trust motion has been mentioned as item 4 on agenda.

Loss in No Confidence Motion: In the scenario that Imran Khan loses no-trust vote, he has discussed that there will be a mass resignation of PTI Members of National Assembly (MNAs) and Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs) across Pakistan. This will make half of the elected seats vacant and it will be binding to hold elections. Thus keeping the joint opposition away from power for long.

Win or Opposition takes back No Confidence Motion: In the scenario that Imran Khan survives the no-confidence motion, he will very soon be declaring the elections in Pakistan and will be going with the “PAKISTAN VS US- FOREIGN POWERS” agenda in elections.

Shahbaz Sharif's son Hamza met two PTI provincial ministers Asad Khokhar and Ejaz Masih and MPA Nazir Chauhan on Saturday. All three  PTI leaders announced their support for PML-N chief ministerial candidate Hamza Shahbaz.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday said that the no-confidence motion moved by the Opposition is part of a foreign conspiracy aimed at weakening Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party which is keeping the country united.

Addressing the people during a TV broadcast, Khan said, "There are two things keeping this country united: one is the army. We are proud to have a strong and professional army. A strong army is really important as our enemies have been trying to divide this nation into three parts."

Pakistan's embattled Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has promised to bowl an inswing yorker against Opposition leaders for tabling a no-confidence motion against him, is now facing the prospect of being run out in the number game in Parliament on Sunday with key allies deserting him and a sizeable number of rebel lawmakers vowing to vote against him.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced disqualification & strict disciplinary action against "any PTI MPA going against party direction (of voting for PML-Q leader Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi in the CM Punjab election), including abstaining from the vote, tomorrow.

In a Q&A session after his address, Prime Minister Imran Khan said that he had a plan for a voting session on the no-trust motion in the National Assembly. "I have more than one plan. We will win tomorrow," he said.

Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Shehbaz Sharif addresses briefing after Imran Khan as trust vote nears.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan advised people to refrain from maligning the Army on social media. "We are proud of our army who have kept the country together and PTI is the next thing which is uniting Pakistan as it is a national party that has support [in all provinces]," he said.

If (Leader of Opposition and PML (N) leader) Shahbaz Sharif takes over, they will do slavery of America: Pakistan PM Imran Khan in a public address a day ahead of the trust vote.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan on saturday called on youth to protest against "foreign conspiracy" beging hatched against his government as Parliament is set to vote on the no-trust motion against him on Sunday.

Cornered Imran Khan appeals to Pakistanis amid no-confidence motion, reiterating 'there is a foreign conspiracy to topple the government'.

PM Imran Khan addresses nation amid no-confidence motion: 

"I have changed the game, it is a big surprise for those who are tired of it. They will be shocked tomorrow," Prime Minister Imran Khan said on no-trust motion's eve.

Metro will remain closed in Islamabad on Sunday, April 3, in view of voting on the No-Confidence Motion. The area near Parliament has also been declared Red Zone (No Traffic movement).

Two sides have been formed in the Jahangir Tareen Group. Three members of Jahangir Tareen Group will support PTI in Punjab Assembly tomorrow. 

Pakistan's embattled Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the establishment had given him three options: "resignation, no-confidence (vote) or elections" after the Opposition filed a no-trust motion against him in Parliament.
 

The Punjab Assembly will meet on Sunday to elect a new Leader of the House after Usman Buzdar resigned in favour of PML-Q leader Pervaiz Elahi.

During the session today, the election schedule was issued according to which voting for the chief ministership will be held tomorrow at 3 pm.

On the eve of Imran Khan's no-trust vote, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader Maryam Aurangzeb accused Pakistan Prime Minister of taking foreign funding through 26 accounts, which was later transferred to 32 accounts belonging to PTI. She alleged that Imran Khan did not disclose the amount. 

PTI announced that Pakistan PM Imran Khan will once again speak to the people of his country directly on the phone at 4 pm. The interaction is likely to be televised on PTV. 

After assuming charge as the Law Minister, Fawad Chaudhry ordered the setting up of a commission to probe the foreign conspiracy. The commission will look into other factors such as the change of government and the no-confidence motion through a global conspiracy and compile a report. 

Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely to interact live with the people of Pakistan on PTV via telephone at 3 pm (Pakistan time) today. After Fawad Chaudhry took charge as the new Law Minister of Pakistan, speculation is rife that the government may file treason cases against opposition leaders and move the Supreme Court to inquire about the alleged conspiracy letter. 

A petition was filed in the Pakistan Supreme Court seeking the suspension of the no-confidence motion against PM Imran Khan. The petitioner demanded the constitution of the Commission of Enquiry of 3 Supreme Court Judges or 3 Chief Justices to inquire into the anti-state activities pursued by the opposition parties. This was a reference to the diplomatic cable professed by Imran Khan as proof of a foreign conspiracy against his government. 

The election of the Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab province is likely to take place on April 3, the same day as the no-confidence motion against Imran Khan, sources revealed. A day earlier, Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar accepted the resignation of Usman Buzdar and summoned an Assembly session at 11 am on Saturday for the election of the new CM. However, sources revealed that the candidates will file their nomination papers today while the voting might be scheduled for Sunday. 

It is expected to be a faceoff between the PTI-led coalition's Pervaiz Elahi and the joint opposition candidate Hamza Shehbaz. Currently functioning as the Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, he has served as the CM as well as Deputy Prime Minister in the past. On the other hand, Hamza Shehbaz is PML(N) president Shehbaz Sharif's son and the Leader of the Opposition in the provincial Assembly. 

Amid the fluid political situation, the Pakistani military establishment has denied the allegation of Prime Minister Imran Khan that he was given three options ahead of the no-trust vote by the "establishment" -- resignation, holding early elections, or face the no-confidence motion. The military establishment said that it did not bring the Opposition's options, and rather it was the federal Government that telephoned the top brass while asking for a meeting to discuss the ongoing political scenario, as per Pakistani media reports. 
 

Pakistani authorities have decided to ensure foolproof security in the Red Zone, Islamabad on the no-confidence voting day. As per sources, ordinary people will not be allowed to enter the Red Zone. The rallies of political parties will not be allowed from Rawalpindi to Islamabad on Sunday and three layers of containers will be installed on the routes to the Red Zone. A total of 8,000 personnel will be deployed on security duty in two different shifts on Sunday. Moreover, a request will be made to the Speaker of the Assembly to stop bringing unnecessary persons with the members of the Assembly.

As per sources, Pakistan PM Imran Khan has called a PTI Parliamentary Party meeting today. This assumes significance a day ahead of the voting on the no-confidence motion. 

In a massive development that altered the power dynamics in Pakistan, the opposition filed a no-confidence motion against Imran Khan on March 8. A delegation of parliamentarians including PML(N)'s Rana Sanaullah, Ayaz Sadiq and Marriyum Aurangzeb and Shazia Marri of PPP submitted the no-trust motion with the country's National Assembly secretariat. On March 28, 161 MPs supported the moving of the no-confidence motion in the National Assembly after which a discussion on this resolution was fixed for March 31. The no-trust vote will take place on Sunday, April 3. 

The opposition’s discontent stems from the 2018 General Election in Pakistan that was allegedly rigged before and on the counting day at the behest of the military establishment. For instance, just a few days before the election, former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz who were leading the campaign for civilian supremacy were sentenced by an Accountability court on charges of corruption. Moreover, polling agents of various parties were reportedly thrown out during the counting process, thus casting doubts on the legitimacy of Khan’s Tehreek-I-Insaf party.

Since then, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and other leaders have called Khan as ‘selected’, hinting at the role of the Pakistani military in rigging the election. The opposition parties have also been riled by the fact that Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau has been regularly arresting its leaders. Moreover, the Imran Khan-led government is facing a huge backlash from across the political spectrum over the surging inflation, increasing debt, purported misgovernance and mishandling of foreign policy which is reflected in the stalling of CPEC projects and US president Joe Biden's snub. 

Opposition's perceived strength: 

Tally: 199 (172 votes required to win no-trust motion)

• PML(N)- 84 

• PPP- 56

• MMA- 15

• BNP-M-4 

• ANP-1

• JWP-1

• PML(Q)-1

• Independents- 4

• MQM-7

• BAP-4

• Rebel PTI- 22

Facing a tough test of survival in the no-confidence motion, Khan first talked about the 'foreign conspiracy' to dislodge his government. At his massive rally in Islamabad on March 27, he waved a letter as proof. On the occasion, he also hinted that former PM and PML(N) supremo Nawaz Sharif was a part of this plot and that he was holding secret meetings in London. After the opposition questioned the authenticity of his claims, Khan showed the 'secret letter' to his Cabinet members and allies and gave a gist of the same to select journalists on March 30.

As per reports, the letter referred to by Imran Khan was based on a telegram sent by former Pakistan's envoy to the US, Asad Majeed Khan, to Islamabad on March 7. The latter, who has been replaced by Ambassador Masood Khan, shared details about his meeting with a senior US official. The 1992 World Cup-winning captain did not specifically name the US but revealed that the official of a country had expressed displeasure with Pakistan's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

It is pertinent to note that Islamabad-based Western diplomats had issued a statement on March 1, urging the PTI-led government to condemn the Russian attack on Ukraine and support the UNGA resolution in this regard. The official of the unnamed country also contended that the decision to visit Russia on the eve of the invasion was Imran Khan's call and not that of the military establishment. The letter also quoted him as saying, "A vote of confidence is coming and if that succeeds all mistakes of Pakistan will be forgiven, otherwise, Pakistan has to face dire consequences". 

As per sources. PM Imran Khan chaired a legal team meeting in which the possibility of filing treason cases were discussed against rebels of PTI and opposition members. Pakistan Prime Minister Khan was briefed that there is evidence against rebels and opposition members as they sought foreign aid to overthrow the government.