Nazuk Mor: Recent Episodes
Uzair Younus
A weekly podcast hosted by Amber Rahim Shamsi and Uzair Younus, breaking down the top stories within and outside Pakistan.
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the ongoing political dynamics in Paksitan, where it seems like the PPP, PTI, and JUI-F are trying to come closer together given the PML-N’s closeness to the establishment. We also talked about the ongoing developments in the supreme court, where Justice Isa is trying to clean up house after Bandial’s retirement.
We also have a special guest interview with Akbar Shahid Ahmed, who is HuffPost's senior foreign affairs reporter, based in Washington, D.C. He can be reached at akbar.ahmed@huffpost.com.
A native Pakistani, Akbar has reported from across the Muslim-majority world, Europe and elsewhere. In 2023, he was chosen for the East-West Center's Korea-United States Journalists Exchange, and in 2022, he won a Boell Transatlantic Media Fellowship to spend the fall reporting in Poland and Lithuania. In 2019, Akbar became the first-ever Pakistani journalist to secure a press credential to report from Israel-Palestine, and was selected as part of the inaugural class of LGBTI fellows at the Atlantic Council.
Akbar is doing some fantastic reporting on the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, and his stories are must-reads. You can find the most recent stories written by Akbar here - https://www.huffpost.com/author/akbar-shahid-ahmed
You can listen to Shadi’s conversation here - https://www.shadihamid.net/p/the-end-of-coexistence
If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:40 Opposition parties come closer together
11:41 Developments in the Supreme Court
18:10 Amb. Munir’s UN speech
25:20 Expert Interview with Akbar Shahid Ahmed
47:26 Ongoing developments in DC policy circles
59:47 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk Nawaz Sharif’s return to Pakistan and what it means. We also talk about the ongoing series of interviews of political leaders after they had gone missing. In particular, Amber explains the ethics of journalism and how some of these interviews violate these ethics. We also talk about the Supreme Court’s ongoing hearings and its implications.
In this episode, we chose not to talk about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and this was a conscious choice. If you’d like to listen to what is going on in Gaza and what the ongoing conflict means for the region, check out the latest Pakistonomy here - https://youtu.be/K45m1I-eXOk
If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:20 Nawaz returns to Pakistan
14:52 Media interviews of political leaders
23:36 Ethics of interviews
36:03 Supreme court hearings
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the cipher case that is gathering momentum, with the FIA filing a chargesheet against Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi.
We also have an expert interview on the India-Canada row with Dr. Irfan Nooruddin sharing his perspective on ongoing developments. We also discuss our nazuk mors and cover the weekly winners and losers.
If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:15 FIA’s chargesheet on cipher case
16:50 Canada-India row – Dr. Irfan Nooruddin
40:25 Mastung attacks
46:45 Nazuk mors
59:24 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk the caretaker PM’s visit to New York and his remarks on “fair” elections in Pakistan. We also talk about The Intercept’s latest story on Pakistan’s supply of weapons to Ukraine, and continue our discussion on our picks for 50 Nazuk Mors for Pakistan since its independence.
If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:58 Minus-Khan Formula and Caretaker Comments
12:24 Intercept’s coverage of Pakistan
26:02 Nazuk mors for Pakistan
40:08 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about Justice Isa’s swearing in and expectations from his tenure as chief justice.
We also talk about a fantastic discussion Shehzad Ghias did with Dr. Atif Mia, and also continue our discussion on our picks for 50 Nazuk Mors for Pakistan since its independence. If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Links for mentions in the podcast:
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On Justice Isa - https://www.dawn.com/news/1776069/justice-qazi-faez-isa-pakistans-judicial-maverick
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On Bandial’s tenure -https://www.dawn.com/news/1776093/justice-unconscious
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On Bandial’s tenure - https://www.dawn.com/news/1776211/justice-under-siege-the-year-of-umar-ata-bandial
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Dr. Atif Mian talks to Shehzad Ghias - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZrWDUUCzmA
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Justice Isa swears in
18:20 Dr. Atif Mian’s conversation with Shehzad Ghias
27:35 Nazuk mors of Pakistan
35:01 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest with the economy, focusing on the central bank’s decision to not cut rates and the ongoing wave of action against smuggling.
We also continue our discussion on our picks for 50 Nazuk Mors for Pakistan since its independence. If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
3:40 State Bank’s decision
10:57 Action against smugglers
21:12 Pakistan’s nazuk mors
32:22 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the ongoing economic crisis in Pakistan and the army chief’s meetings with business leaders. We also talk about the worsening environment for expression and protests in Pakistan.
And since this is our 50th episode, we are starting a discussion on our picks for 50 Nazuk Mors for Pakistan since its independence. If you have suggestions, please leave a comment about what your top nazuk mors for Pakistan are.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:40 Economy worsens, COAS meets business leaders
23:30 Political climate worsening?
31:30 Pakistan’s nazuk mors
50:33 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest developments out of Islamabad, where President Arif Alvi has set off a firestorm. We also talked about the heinous violence against minorities in Pakistan and about Amber’s recent trip to Quetta.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:20 Alvi’s recent actions
20:26 PTM arrests
28:20 Attacks against minorities
31:40 Takeaways from Quetta
36:11 Latest on elections
40:05 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the new caretaker PM in Pakistan and what it means for the country. In addition, we talk about the terror attack in Gwadar and the worsening situation in Balochistan, as well as journalism ethics and reporting with single-source documents.
Uzair’s article on the muder of democracy is here - https://www.dawn.com/news/1769090
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:05 Kakar as new PM
15:28 Attack in Gwadar
18:10 Bushra Bibi Diary and Intercept’s Cipher Story
41:27 Bans on coverage of individuals
46:25 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about Khan’s disqualification and arrest, the CCI’s decision on population census, and the way in which legislation is being passed by an outgoing parliament.
Article Amber mentioned is here - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/26/opinion/trump-indictments-prosecution.html
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
4:50 Khan’s disqualification and arrest
19:36 Census and election delays
31:07 Fast food legislation
39:06 Cases in US and India
47:58 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest from Pakistan, focusing on the ongoing hearings in the Supreme Court on military trials of civilians and the alleged statements recorded by Azam Khan.
Our big story for this week is from India, where we focus on the ongoing wave of violence and instability in Manipur. Most recently, videos of sexual violence against women has made headlines around the world, and we try to tell you what exactly is going on and its drivers during a conversation with Ananya Bhardwaj.
Ananya works as a Senior Assistant Editor for ThePrint. She writes on crime, law and order, terrorism, internal security and policing in Delhi and has travelled extensively to report on gender issues and social welfare, churning out series of investigative and human interest stories. She has also independently anchored and shot many video projects.
ThePrint has done some fantastic reporting from Manipur and some of the key stories are here:
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https://theprint.in/ground-reports/no-one-wants-to-talk-about-rapes-in-manipur-theres-a-silence-at-the-heart-of-the-violence/1665212/
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qpK02L2eiM
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https://theprint.in/india/bulletproof-jackets-made-from-iron-poles-gun-training-how-village-panels-are-guarding-churachandpur/1665208/
Pratap Bhanu Mehta’s article is a must-read too - https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/pratap-bhanu-mehta-writes-after-manipur-our-self-serving-morality-8853454/
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:50 Key stories from Pakistan
21:12 Understanding the violence in Manipur
22:34 Interview with Ananya Bhardwaj
51:30 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the formation of PTI Parliamentarians, a breakaway faction of Khan’s party which is being headed by Pervez Khattak. We also talk about the army chief’s visit to Iran and the recent ISPR statement on terrorism and SIFC.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:10 Pervez Khattak’s split
16:58 Iran and Afghanistan
23:00 SIFC Updates
27:35 Winners and Losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the recent seminar on agriculture held in Islamabad and what it means. We also provide some details and context on TERF, and talk about the ongoing rains and flooding across northern India and Pakistan.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Ammar’s article on TERF is here - https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1088637-protecting-their-terf
Ahsan Butt’s article on climate cooperation is here - https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/commentary/south-asias-climate-challenges-are-transnational-its-climate-solutions-must-be-too/
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:29 Green Initiative event
15:00 Demystifying TERF
26:20 Rains in India and Pakistan
30:26 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the deal Pakistan reached with the IMF and its impact on politics and the economy.
We also talk about political developments in Brazil and Russia.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Khurram’s article on default is here - https://www.dawn.com/news/1762541
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:00 IMF’s deal with Pakistan
24:51 Latest in Brazil
32:07 Wagner Group v. Putin
36:55 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest with the IMF, as Pakistan passes a budget adjusted to address the IMF’s concerns.
We also talk about Modi’s visit to the US and the latest in Russia.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
The statement with regards to India from US politicians is here - https://jayapal.house.gov/2023/06/20/jayapal-van-hollen-lead-bicameral-letter-with-over-70-members-urging-president-biden-to-discuss-upholding-human-rights-and-democratic-values-during-upcoming-meeting-with-indian-pm-modi/
The tweet with the unmet conditions of the IMF is here - https://twitter.com/UzairYounus/status/1672298289914363926?s=20
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:20 IMF and the budget
12:05 Modi’s US visit
19:20 Latest in Russia
24:30 Migrant crisis and other stories
32:48 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the mayoral election in Karachi and discuss claims of rigging.
We also talk about Dar’s recent meltdown and the ongoing cases against PTI leaders.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
The BBC documentary is here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHh9F0hpCJk
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:34 Karachi mayoral elections
14:04 Dar’s meltdown
19:03 Shehryar Afridi’s case
24:08 Migrant boat capsizes
34:51 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about how foreign policy is made in the United States and the truth about the Haqqani-Bajwa files.
We also talk about accountability investigations against other global leaders, including Donald Trump, and the way in which investigations must be conducted.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
You can read the full report mentioned in the podcast here - https://www.hudson.org/economics/us-reengagement-pakistan-ideas-reviving-important-relationship
Rick Olson’s case - https://www.axios.com/2022/04/27/richard-olson-qatar-illegal-foreign-lobbying
Instagram child pornography story - https://www.wsj.com/articles/instagram-vast-pedophile-network-4ab7189
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:40 The Haqqani-Bajwa files
18:35 Trump’s indictment
26:10 Lobbying laws in the US and the regime change conspiracy
30:46 Winners and losers
This is a midweek episode covering some key announcements made in Pakistan. Enjoy with some patriotic songs at the start and end of this episode for best experience.
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about how the PDM coalition will deal with electoral politics and the chances of conflict within the coalition. We also talk about the growing authoritarianism in Pakistan and the tragic train accident in India.
This episode also talks about the upcoming budget and why the economy is not going to stabilize anytime soon.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Dismantling Khan and conflict within the PDM
23:05 Budget and economic outlook
30:45 Train crash in India
32:50 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the broader implications of the crackdown against the PTI, the army’s growing role in Pakistan’s politics, and the run-off elections in Turkey.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:50 Analyzing the implications of the crackdown
25:49 Elections in Turkey
32:40 Elite’s divisions and deal-making in Pakistan
40:37 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about what comes next the PTI, whose leaders are abandoning Imran Khan with every passing day. We also talk about the latest economic growth numbers.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest from Pakistan including Imran Khan’s appeals to US lawmakers for support.
We also take a look at the G-7 summit and have an expert interview on Thailand’s elections..
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:10 Amber’s Thailand trip
9:26 Latest from Pakistan
48:10 G-7 Summit
51:10 Guest interview – James Gomez
1:03:00 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about what comes next in Pakistan’s growing political and economic crisis. We interviewed Roohan Ahmed to share with us some key developments expected in Islamabad on Monday, May 15.
We also take a look at results from elections in India with Adnan Ansari sharing the key takeaways from UP and Karnataka.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:07 Pakistan’s political crisis
10:40 Roohan Ahmed interview
21:05 Amber’s analysis of the situation
26:30 India elections: interview w/ Adnan Ansari
43:20 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk Imran Khan’s arrest in Islamabad, the protests and violence seen across the country, and what comes next.
We also take a look at the upcoming elections in Turkey and the latest from the lawsuits Donal Trump is facing.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:50 Deciphering Khan’s arrest
22:28 Turkey elections
28:15 Trump lawsuits
34:55 Winners and losers
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about Bilawal’s trip to India for the SCO, Ishaq Dar’s op-ed on the economy, and the tragic news out of Parachinar.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the raid at Pervaiz Elahi’s home and its impact on the ongoing negotiations. We also talked about the ongoing digital census, which has had major concerns related to it.
Another big story is the Washington Post article highlighting an internal memo written by Pakistan’s former foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar. Finally, we also touched on the wheat crisis and the state of labor in Pakistan.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:45 Elahi’s home gets raided
19:20 Controversy with the census
26:28 Khar’s memo leaks
37:10 Wheat crisis and bumper crops
41:10 Bonded labor in Pakistan
44:32 Winners and losers
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest political developments in Pakistan, where the PDM and PTI have finally started negotiations.
We also talked about Biden’s decision to run for president again and the reasons behind Tucker Carlson’s ouster from Fox News.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
15:59 Biden runs again
26:36 Tucker’s ouster from Fox
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the Supreme Court’s hearings, where it has given a deadline of 4pm to political parties to reach an agreement for talks.
We also talked about the petroleum subsidy scheme, where the finance ministry is expected to oppose the proposals from the petroleum ministry..
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Stories mentioned in this episode:
- https://tribune.com.pk/story/2412739/govt-goes-ahead-with-petrol-subsidy-scheme
- https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1062602-finance-ministry-set-to-oppose-summary-on-petrol-subsidy-scheme
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the Supreme Court’s orders to the SBP, demanding the release of funds for elections in Punjab. In addition, we talk about the thawing political ice, with political leaders signalling that they are open to talks.
We also talked about the US intelligence leaks and its implications during this episode.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:12 The latest with the Supreme Court
10:00 Potential for political negotiations
17:51 US intelligence leaks
23:15 Ali Zaidi’s arrest and Zardari’s interview
31:48 Winners and losers
In this midweek episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the Supreme Court’s hearings about the legislation passed by parliament and the latest from the IMF.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:56 Supreme court springs to action
11:38 Kashmir’s PM disqualified
15:28 Election delays and IMF
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the Supreme Court’s decision announcing elections in Punjab, the latest about funding from Saudi, and ongoing political developments in the US and Scotland. We also talked about Khan’s recent interviews to international media.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:03 Supreme Court’s decision
8:00 Saudi funding
13:12 Trump’s indictment
15:44 Scotland politics
20:23 Khan’s interviews
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the ongoing crisis in the Supreme Court, where the justices are divided as never before. We also talk about Trump’s indictment in the United States and the stampedes that have been witnessed across Pakistan during flour distribution.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:0:00 Introduction
1:20 Divide in the Supreme Court
19:10 Trump's indictment
28:51 Food stampedes in Pakistan
35:45 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the ongoing arrests of PTI workers across the country and growing curbs on expression. We also talk about General Bajwa’s interviews and their implications.
The episode also has a special guest interview on Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification from the Lok Sabha – DK Singh, political editor from The Print, joins us from Delhi to tell us what is going on.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:40 PTI’s workers being arrested
8:52 Bajwa’s interview
21:26 IMF update
24:12 Interview with DK Singh
36:08 Takeaways from DK Singh’s interview
40:18 Winners and losers
Shahbaz Rana’s story - https://tribune.com.pk/story/2408072/pakistan-bets-on-geneva-vows-to-bridge-6b-financing-gap
Gov. Zubair’s clip on India - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9cIchssWWg
DK Singh’s analysis on The Print - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVkViFIx3S4
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the ECP’s decision to delay the elections in Punjab and what that means. We also talk about Rahul Gandhi’s case in India, TikTok hearings in Washington, and the latest with the IMF program.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:30 ECP’s Punjab elections decision
9:10 Rahul Gandhi’s defamation case
13:50 TikTok hearings in Washington
19:22 IMF deal or no deal?
Analysis on the ECP’s Punjab Decision - https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/southasiasource/experts-react-election-postponed-in-pakistans-punjab-province/
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the most recent developments in Islamabad and Lahore, with Roohan Ahmed joining us to share what he saw outside the judicial complex in Islamabad.
We also spoke about the latest with the IMF deal and why new financing from Saudi and China is not coming in.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:10 What happened during the day in Lahore and Islamabad?
4:30 Roohan Ahmed reporting from Judicial Complex
14:25 Analysis on ongoing developments
25:00 IMF developments
35:20 Winners and losers
Middle East Eye Report - https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/saudi-arabia-pakistan-shape-up-easy-money-end
In this mid-week episode, we talk about the chaos seen in Lahore, the events leading up to it, and what comes next.
Since we recorded this episode in a hurry, apologies for not having the usual graphics etc.
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the Zille Shah’s murder and the facts and issues associated with the events that have unfolded in Lahore. We also talk about the continuous imposition of Section 144 to prevent the PTI from holding rallies and the details about stories about Holi celebrations at Punjab and Karachi University.
Finally, we also spoke about the developments on the diplomatic front, where Saudi Arabia and Iran decided to re-establish diplomatic relations.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:30 Zille Shah’s murder
17:05 Section 144 to prevent PTI rallies
21:20 Holi celebrations at Punjab and Karachi University
26:10 IMF update
31:00 Saudi-Iran thaw and China’s role
39:30 Winners and losers
Zara Hat Kay clip on Holi -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCvizPaW5M0
Silicon Valley Bank collapse impact -- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/silicon-valley-bank-failure-worldwide-repercussions/
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the violence witnessed today on International Women’s Day, the curbs on speech on former PM Khan, and the stories about an inquiry against former ISI chief Faiz Hamid.
Uzair also spoke to Dr. Kamran Bokhari about the recent curbs placed on Pakistani entities by the US.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:10 Violence on women’s day
6:59 Curbs on PTI rallies and Khan’s speeches
14:40 US takes actions against Pakistani entities
Anwar Iqbal’s article - https://www.dawn.com/news/1740308/pakistani-firms-among-37-put-on-us-trade-blacklist
Entities List source - https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/03/06/2023-04558/additions-and-revisions-of-entities-to-the-entity-list
Indian president remarks on women’s day - https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/international-womens-day-president-murmu-stresses-making-women-made-equal-partners-in-progress-of-humanity/article66595384.ece
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the government’s attempts to arrest Imran Khan, the appointment of a new NAB chief, and the outlook for elections. We also talk about key economic developments from this week, which included a surreal presser by Ishaq Dar.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:40 Khan’s arrest attempts
8:17 New NAB chief – view from DC
15:10 Elections date and compromises
19:40 Economic disaster and Dar’s presser
25:14 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the terror attack in Karachi and its implications, the ongoing clean-up within the military, and the evolving saga between Retired Army Chief Bajwa and former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
We also touch on the mini-budget that has been presented to parliament, where PM Sharif has been missing in action.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:30 Karachi terror attack
12:15 Khan demands inquiry in Bajwa’s conduct
21:46 Military’s operation cleanup
25:39 Mini-budget tabled in parliament
33:00 Winners and losers
35:49 Encounter in Islamabad
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the IMF negotiations which despite high hopes, did not conclude on a positive note. We explain why that happened and what the future timeline of events may look like.
We also talked about ongoing political developments including conversations to delay the elections.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:15 What happened with the IMF?
14:40 Delaying the elections
28:46 Sharif’s desire to visit Turkey
35:10 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the growing threat of terrorism in Pakistan, focusing on the fallout of the Peshawar suicide bombing. We also talk about Musharraf’s death and the dictator’s legacy, and touch on the ongoing talks with the IMF.
This week’s guest interview is with Roohan Ahmed, a journalist based in Islamabad who has covered terrorism and terror groups like the TTP for a number of years.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:20 Musharraf’s legacy
20:10 Growing terrorism in Pakistan
24:06 Interview with Roohan Ahmed on Peshawar bombing
40:38 What happens after Peshawar?
47:10 IMF negotiates in Islamabad
54:04 Winners and losers
Listen to the Pakistonomy conversation with Khurram Husain here - https://youtu.be/vUPOfKn0UXc
And for your Gham Hour listening, here’s Aadat by Atif Aslam - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXkFk7zSnT0
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the end of the Dar Peg and how its unwinding will impact the economy. We also talk about Maryam’s return to Lahore and the broader political game of thrones, along with the ridiculous sedition charges against PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry.
Amber talks to India-based journalist Saurabh Kumar Shahi about the BBC’s Modi documentary and its fallout. We also cover Hindenburg’s revelations about Adani and what that means for India’s economy.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:18 Rupee devaluation and Dar Peg
10:57 Maryam’s return
17:07 Fawad’s arrest and sedition charges
31:30 Expert interview with Saurabh Kumar Shahi
54:26 Interview analysis and Adani story
1:05:06 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk the major missteps of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his coalition government. We also discuss the latest political and economic developments in Pakistan, and discuss the India-China tensions, with Rudra Chaudhuri, who is Director at Carnegie India.
Rudra’s research focuses on the diplomatic history of South Asia, contemporary security issues, and the increasingly important role of emerging technologies in diplomacy and statecraft.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:18 Karachi elections update
3:11 Sharif’s missteps since coming to power
15:50 What’s brewing in the political economy
24:28 India-China tensions with Rudra Chaudhuri
45:30 BBC’s documentary on Modi
51:40 Winners and losers
Stories mentioned in the episode:
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Caravan magazine on Gujrat riots: https://caravanmagazine.in/law/sit-free-pass-modi
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Karan Thapar’s conversation with Jack Straw: https://thewire.in/communalism/watch-ex-foreign-minister-jack-straw-confirms-uk-report-that-modi-directly-responsible-for-2002-riots
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the local bodies elections in Karachi and the dissolution of the Punjab Assembly and its implications on the politics of the PTI and PMLN.
We also spoke to Travis Waldron, a reporter based in Brasilia, Brazil’s capital which saw riots a few days ago. Travis helps us understand the causes behind the riots, what it means for the country moving forward, and how these riots are linked to some global trends we are seeing.
We also talked about the economic situation in Pakistan, developments in US politics, and of course our winners and losers.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:18 Karachi elections and takeaways
16:01 Punjab dissolution and national politics
29:32 Internal rifts in PMLN
43:05 Brazil riots – interview with Travis Waldron
1:03:37 Our analysis on Brazil
1:10:32 Biden’s documents and impact on US politics
1:15:48 Winners and losers
Stories mentioned in the episode:
- Travis Waldron’s reporting on Brazil:
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/brazil-police-bolsonaro-election-democracy-far-right_n_63331abbe4b08e0e6066eb96/amp
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/jair-bolsonaro-sept-7-brazil-rallies_n_6318f2d8e4b027aa40575745
- Mehtab Haider on friendly deposits: https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1030847-plan-to-turn-to-friendly-countries-for-additional-deposits
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the continuing economic meltdown, with Ishaq Dar refusing to cede ground on his policy position. We also talk about the military chief’s trip to Saudi Arabia, the evolving situation in Punjab, and Maryam Nawaz’s promotion in the PMLN.
Finally, we also cover the election of the Speaker of the House in Washington, D.C.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Economic crisis and propaganda
16:25 Comparison with Egypt
23:50 Punjab situation for PTI, PMLQ, and PMLN
36:55 Kevin McCarthy’s election in the US
46:34 Winners and losers
Stories mentioned in the episode:
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Khanzada on Egypt situation: https://twitter.com/shazbkhanzdaGEO/status/1611432719052935169?s=20&t=xsWqNM3fAElY6Dybq42Q1A
-
Shahbaz Rana on LNG power plants: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2394671/govt-set-to-sell-lng-plants-to-qatar
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Khurram Husain on CPEC: https://www.dawn.com/news/1333101
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the former army chief’s response to Imran Khan’s accusations via Javed Chaudhry and other journalists. We also talk about the NSC’s meeting focused on terrorism and the economy, as well as the Islamabad local bodies polls and protests in Gwadar.
This episode also has a roundup of key events during 2022 and the outlook for 2023, where we expect the economy to dominate politics.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:30 Javed Chaudhry’s column on Bajwa
14:35 Key takeaways from NSC meeting
20:19 Obsession with technocrats
25:30 Islamabad local bodies elections
31:30 MQM reunification
35:34 Gwadar protests
39:10 2022 roundup
55:49 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the worsening security situation in Pakistan, with a suicide bombing taking place in Islamabad this past week. We have an interview with Ismail Khan, who is editor for Dawn in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.
We also talk about the the political game of thrones in Punjab and on the worsening economic situation, including the latest with the IMF program negotiations..
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
The links for your reading are:
-
Ismail Khan’s story on the TTP - https://www.dawn.com/news/1727946/situationer-amid-ttp-escalation-kabuls-rulers-insist-group-not-using-afghan-soil
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Mehtab Haider’s story on the IMF negotiations - https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1023211-stalled-programme-revival-imf-asks-pakistan-to-meet-all-demands-in-three-weeks
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Shahbaz Rana’s story on the dollar peg - https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392615/imf-wants-market-base-rupee-value
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
3:50 Ismail Khan interview on terrorism
26:19 Our analysis on growing terror threat
39:05 Punjab political drama
41:58 IMF negotiations and the economy
47:50 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the recent announcement by Imran Khan to dissolve the KPK and Punjab assemblies on December 23 and the implications of this announcement. We discuss the various strategies the competing parties are likely to deploy in the coming weeks to improve their political position.
We also talk about the Reko Diq case agreement and why that made our blood boil, as well as the ongoing tensions on Pakistan's border with Afghanistan.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
The links for your reading are:
-
Reko Diq bill - https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/63981f24513ed_216.pdf
-
Story on the Sanjrani empire - https://loksujag.com/story/The-curious-case-of-the-Sanjranis-Saindak-mine-project
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:20 Khan’s announcement on dissolution
20:20 Reko Diq settlement and legislation
38:27 Afghan border clashes and tensions
44:26 Winners and losers for the week
Uzair and Amber talk about the ongoing economic crisis in Pakistan, where the dollar is in short supply and the IMF program remains off track. We also talk about Xi’s trip to Saudi Arabia, where the joint statement from Saudi and China was 4,000 words long, as well as the failed coup attempt in Germany.
Finally, we have an expert interview to help us make sense of the elections results in India and what it means for the BJP, Narendra Modi, and the opposition Congress and AAP parties in the country.
The articles we mentioned in this episode are as follows:
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TSA deadline will be missed by Shahbaz Rana: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2390421/tsa-deadline-will-be-missed-imf
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Another missed target: Pakistan unlikely to fulfill claim of implementing TSA by year-end by Ariba Shahid: https://profit.pakistantoday.com.pk/2022/12/10/another-missed-target-pakistan-unlikely-to-fulfill-claim-of-implementing-tsa-by-year-end/?s=08
-
Day X podcast by the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/19/podcasts/far-right-german-extremism.html
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends.
Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:50 Daily Mail Apology
3:48 Economic crisis and dollar shortage
17:29 Punjab assembly dissolution
19:16 Xi in Saudi and its implications
30:03 Coup attempt in Germany
34:20 India elections interview with Adnan Ansari
55:27 Analysis on Indian elections
1:02:46 Winners and losers of the week
Uzair and Amber talk about the latest from Islamabad over the last week, what the new army chief is signaling, and the political reactions to the Moonis Elahi interview. We talk about how the latest revelations show that Bajwa was playing double games and whether more information about the backstory will now come out into the open.
We also talk about the end of the TTP ceasefire, with Mohsin Dawar and Iftikhar Firdous joining the podcast to share their perspectives.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends. Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:27 The latest in Islamabad
14:48 Moonis Elahi interview
23:45 TTP ends the ceasefire
27:04 Mohsin Dawar interview
41:14 Iftikhar Firdous interview
54:57 Interview reactions
1:00:30 Winners and losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the appointment Genral Asim Munir as Pakistan’s next army chief, Imran Khan’s speech in Rawalpindi and what the announcement to resign from provincial assemblies means, and the implications of the State Bank’s decision to raise policy rate by 100 basis points.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends. Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:10 Khan comes to Pindi
15:50 Corruption narrative and the Fact Focus story
20:40 Outlook for the PDM and PMLN
27:10 SBP wakes up to inflation
38:25 Winners and losers of the week
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest on the appointment of a new army chief in Pakistan, with General Bajwa set to retire in the coming days. We also talk about Pakistan’s default risk and why talks with the IMF are proceeding slowly.
Before winning on to the winners and losers, we have a special interview with Ali Sajjad about censorship in Pakistani media, focusing on the approval issues faced by the movie Joyland.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends. Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:30 Retirement of army chief Bajwa
23:26 Default risk in Pakistan
41:10 Joyland and censorship in Pakistan
1:04:50 Why censorship is a problem
1:14:08 Winners and losers
In this episode, Uzair and Amber talk about the US midterms and its impact on US politics moving forward. This includes an expert interview with Sabrina Siddiqui, who is the Wall Street Journal's report covering the White House.
Also covered in the episode are the latest details that have emerged related to Arshad Sharif's murder investigation. Amber and Uzair also talk about Khan's march, which has resumed, and the change of guard at the GHQ, with General Bajwa slated to retire at the end of the month.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends. Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
The twitter thread we mentioned can be read here: https://twitter.com/drahmedkalebi/status/1590930838077726720?s=48&t=c4T5rIEdeS_4U15IMPIKAA
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:17 Updates on Arshad Sharif’s murder
16:50 Bajwa’s retirement and Khan on the march
37:35 Midterms in the US
50:40 Interview with Sabrina Siddiqui on the US midterms
1:12:10 Inflation in Pakistan
1:20:38 Winners and Losers
In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the recent assassination attempt on Imran Khan. We discuss key facts, timeline of events, and the political implications of the assassination. The episode also discusses Azam Swati’s allegations, including this culture of audio and video leaks in Pakistan, and why power must be held to account.
The final part of the discussion focuses on the recent trip to China and what was, and was not, accomplished during the trip.
As always, please do subscribe to the podcast and share it with your friends. Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.
0:00 Introduction
1:10 Details about the assassination attempt
11:12 Timeline of key events
21:35 Political implications and Khan’s speech
33:30 Video leaks and Azam Swati
43:50 Sharif’s trip to China
47:15 Winners and losers
51:55 Conclusion
Welcome to the first episode of Nazuk Mor, a podcast hosted by Amber Rahim Shamsi and Uzair Younus. This is a weekly podcast covering the top stories of the week from within and outside Pakistan.
In our first episode, we talk about Khan's march to Islamabad, the war of words between Pakistan's powerful military establishment and Khan, and the brutal murder of Arshad Sharif in Kenya.
This episode aslo has a special interview with Jos Bartman, Research Coordinator at Free Press Unlimited. Amber spoke to Jos about Arshad's murder and its investigation.
Follow us on the following handles, and do share this podcast with your friends and family!
@amberrshamsi
@uzairyounus