PM Shehbaz addresses a meeting of federal cabinet

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is addressing a federal cabinet meeting currently underway, amidst rising tensions between the government and the opposition led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Early in his speech, the premier highlighted a recent staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), stating, "We hope to unlock the $1.2 billion tranche this year," following his meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva during the United Nations General Assembly last month.

He commended the political and military leadership for their dedication to fiscal discipline in Pakistan. The premier also mentioned his recent visit to London, where he met with senior executives from global financial institutions. He discussed Pakistan's diplomatic efforts in international affairs, particularly in the Middle East conflict mediation, noting the international community's appreciation for Pakistan's hard work and sincerity.

The government and PTI have been at odds over counterterrorism policy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the PTI planning a protest march on October 4 despite government warnings. Sources reveal that top leaders of the PML-N and PPP have finalized a plan to impose federal control over KP by invoking constitutional provisions for emergency and governor's rule.

The government is expected to approve measures under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution to declare an emergency in KP, although constitutionally, this approval is not required. PTI leaders argue they are excluded from security decisions for KP, a claim the government denies, and criticizes the KP government's counterterrorism efforts and stance on dialogue with the Afghan Taliban.