Tag: Pakistan

Onijah Andrew Robinson, the American woman who has been in Karachi ever since her Pakistani lover abandoned her after making false promises of marriage last year, has now returned to the US.

She reportedly landed in Karachi on October 11, 2024, while her visa was set to expire on November 10, but after her online paramour, 19-year-old Nidal Ahmed Memon, refused to marry her, instead of returning to the US, the 33-year-old chose to stay.

In January, she was taken into police custody after the Airport Security Force (ASF) stopped her as she tried to enter Karachi airport.

According to private media reports, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori then intervened, and Onijah was issued a 15-day exit permit on January 27 while a welfare organisation booked an air ticket back home for her.

At the time of her return, however, she refused to leave and claimed she was being forced to return by the authorities.

She stayed at what she claimed to be her “friend’s house” in Karachi’s Garden area until she was provided shelter by a welfare organisation.

In February, she was taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi, with concerns for her mental health.

According to media sources, incoherence in speech and swelling in her hands and feet caused concerns. Admitted to the  Department of Psychiatry, reports of her detailed examination are due.

Jeremiah Andrew Robinson, Onijah’s son, revealed in a video statement earlier this week that his mother is mentally unwell and experiences cognitive hindrances. He stated that her claims and actions must be perceived and dealt with accordingly.

He also claimed that Onijah was supposed to return to the US two weeks after she arrived in Pakistan in October., and that he and his brother had bought a return ticket.

The 33-year-old US national’s criminal record shows that she was arrested in Charleston County in South Carolina in 2021, “ENTERING PREMISES AFTER WARNING”. It also revealed that a bail bond of $465 is possibly not paid.

On February 7, a medical board gave the green signal for her to travel, deeming her fit to go, after which the police escorted her to the airport. US Consulate staff also paid her a visit to the hospital, persuading her to go back to the US, and organised her flight.

While Onijah Robinson was in Pakistan, people around the world, especially in America, followed her story with zesty as her odyssey turned into a media storm. Foreign netizens shared how their perspective of Pakistanis changed upon witnessing the hospitality given to Onija and the patience people here showed towards her. Comparisons were drawn with the depiction of Pakistanis in Western media, which is often bleak and fearful.

It wouldn’t be wrong if I say that philanthropy and Pakistan are synonymous. A look at Pakistan’s history reveals a tradition deeply rooted in the religious and cultural practices of giving—whether it’s zakat, sadqa, or community-driven initiatives like food drives, wedding fund contributions, or general hospitality. Figures like Abdus Sattar Edhi, who founded the Edhi Foundation and built the ‘world’s largest ambulance service network,’ embody this enduring spirit of generosity. Today, citizens across Pakistan are carrying this legacy forward globally by blending creativity, innovation, and modern technology into the age-old tradition of giving back. 

The Rise of Technocratic Social Citizenship

Philanthropy in Pakistan is changing thanks to globalisation, technology, and education. Unlike the older generation, who often kept their charity work low-key and low-tech, today’s youth want to see real and visible results. Take Seed Out, for example— helping fund small businesses for underprivileged entrepreneurs through online micro-donations.

 

Fun Fact: According to a study conducted by the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy, Pakistanis give around PKR 240 billion (more than $2 billion) annually to charity, even with the challenges in our national economy. This speaks volumes about the culture of philanthropy in the country. 

Impacts of Technologised PhilanthropyModern tools have decentralised efforts and transcended borders, redefining how charity work is done. Fast Micro-Funding, online collaborations, and social media have made it easier for individuals and organisations to assist the disenfranchised among us. Here are some noteworthy examples of their impact. 

• Crowdfunding Platforms: Crowdfunding has taken off in Pakistan, with platforms like Seed Out, GoFundMe, and Transparent Hands leading the charge. These platforms are making it easier than ever for people to contribute to causes they care about, whether it’s helping someone get life-saving surgery or supporting education or entrepreneurship for those deserving. For example, Seed Out has enabled countless entrepreneurs in rural areas to start their own businesses, while Transparent Hands has funded over 1,000 surgeries for people who otherwise couldn’t afford treatment. 

• Charity Events: Pakistanis are finding new ways to blend style with social impact. One such example is Fashion for a Cause, a charity fashion show that showcases local, sustainable designs and also raises funds for education programs in underprivileged areas.
  
  

• Social Enterprises: On the business side, social enterprises are becoming a big deal. Companies are integrating social responsibility into their business models, which is a win-win for both the business and the community. Take The Hunar Foundation, for example, which provides skill development to underprivileged women. The Citizens Foundation (TCF), which runs schools for underprivileged children, helps bridge the education gap in rural and urban communities.
  
  

• Social Entrepreneurship: Individual social entrepreneurship is also on the rise, i.e. entrepreneurs like Pakistani-American physician Dr Anosh, head of Anosh Foundation and YOUR DIL, which has invested over $10 million in healthcare, education, and community development initiatives in more than 25 countries globally.
  
  Dr. Anosh Ahmed’s work exemplifies how a global perspective and localised action can intersect, demonstrating that impactful philanthropy knows no borders. Through his foundation, he combines healthcare expertise with a commitment to empowering marginalised communities worldwide.

Rethinking the concept of charity through a modern lens

Modern philanthropy is completely changing the way we think about giving back in Pakistan. It’s no longer just about quiet, private acts of charity or fulfilling religious duties like zakat and sadqa. Now, it’s becoming something exciting, collaborative, and, most importantly, inclusive—especially for younger generations.

For years, charity was seen as a solemn, individual responsibility. But today’s youth are flipping the script. They’re turning giving back into something personal and fun. Think charity fashion shows by a 16-year-old Pakistani student, Eeman Syeda or music festivals like 4.0 Concert by Acts of Kindness Pakistan that blend entertainment with social causes. These aren’t your traditional fundraisers—they’re community-driven experiences that bring people together. Suddenly, philanthropy isn’t just about writing a check—it’s about making a real impact while connecting. 

What’s really special is how this new wave of giving blends the old with the new. The core values—generosity, community, and religious obligation—are still there. But younger Pakistanis are adding their own twist: creativity, innovation, and a focus on transparency. 

What can you do to be a part of this change?

I believe that by supporting existing initiatives or becoming a catalyst for new projects leveraging the power of technology, new networks can keep the momentum going and drive real social change.

Even the smallest act—donating a little, sharing a campaign, or volunteering your time—can add up to something huge.

Together, we can create a future where our efforts don’t just make headlines but change lives for generations.

Fortuneteller Alia Nazir, while appearing on an ARY News programme last night, predicted interesting things about the political situation of Pakistan in 2025, including when or if former Prime Minister Imran Khan will be released from prison.

“I believe that the year 2025 is going to be very different from previous years. It is going to be very difficult, and unexpected events are going to take place. One of those events is the release of Imran Khan from prison, expected between January and April of this year. Most probably in March he will be out of the prison, not through cutting some deal but through dialogue,” revealed the tarot card reading expert.

Alia Nazir also predicted that 2025 might also witness new elections in Pakistan, saying: “Elections could be held in the second half of the year and the current government might pack its bags mid-year.”

Programme host Muhammad Malick, in a lighter tone, asked the expert whether the stars are confused about the new elections because local governments are actually scheduled to hold elections this year. 

Astrologer Alia Nazir laughed and replied: “No, it is not like that. I’m talking about general elections in the country.”

Host Muhamamd Malick asked the expert: “Given that there are two big powers in Pakistan, i.e. Imran Khan and General Asim Munir. Will there be a clash or reconciliation between General Asim Munir and Imran Khan in 2025?”

The tarot card reading expert replied: “In the year 2025, the stars of the Army Chief and the founder of PTI are not in conflict but in a position of negotiation. The planetary positions of both Asim Munir and Imran Khan are very strong, but they are not in a conflicting position. The situation will turn normal, and they will sit together for the betterment of Pakistan.”

Another astrology expert, Samia Khan, predicted: “2025 is the best year for the Army Chief; he will achieve success that no other Army Chief has achieved. The fame, good name and achievements that General Asim Munir is going to achieve in this year 2025 have not been achieved by any army chief or General”

The host then asked the same question to another astrologer Syed Muhammad Ali Zanjani to which he replied: “This is the year oft military. I feel that the matters between both Asim Munir and Imran Khan are going to be solved. This year, however, is not going to be easy. Every institution, every important personality and every power is going to be aligned for Pakistan for the first time in history.”

The United States of America on December 18 sanctioned four entities for their involvement in the development of long-range missiles, consequently targeting Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.

According to a fact sheet issued by the US State Department, The National Development Complex (NDC) based in Islamabad, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International and Rockside Enterprise, all located in Karachi, have been identified “in light of proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development.”

It merits mentioning that the US had previously targeted several Pakistani companies in April, October, and September of this year to disrupt Pakistan’s missile and drone programs.

The sanctions freeze any US property belonging to the targeted entities and bar Americans from doing business with them.

“The NDC has worked to acquire items in furtherance of Pakistan’s long range ballistic missile program – including special vehicle chassis intended to be used as launch support equipment for ballistic missiles and missile testing equipment.  The United States assesses NDC is responsible for Pakistan’s development of ballistic missiles, including the SHAHEEN-series ballistic missiles,” stated the fact sheet released by US State Department.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry issued a press release today, calling the recent sanctions “unfortunate and biased.” 

“Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are meant to defend its sovereignty and preserve peace and stability in South Asia. The latest installment of sanctions defies the objective of peace and security by aiming to accentuate military asymmetries. Such policies have dangerous implications for the strategic stability of our region and beyond,” read the press release issued by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Meanwhile, security experts on social media weighed in on the recent sanctions with Michael Kugelman writing on X (formerly Twitter): “The US has sanctioned Pakistan’s National Development Complex over proliferation-related concerns tied to ballistic missile development. This is a big deal; unlike recent rounds of US sanctions, this targets a government entity instead of just companies.”

Another Geopolitical analyst Talha Ahmad posted on X: “Unlike the previous sanctions that targeted private companies, this time US has moved up on the ladder and now has sanctioned a government institution —Pakistan’s National Development Complex.”

Ahmad opined that Pakistan’s nature of ballistic and strategic weapons programme is mainly to counter-balance India’s threat. He further explained: “India is leading the proliferation by introducing emerging technologies and massive missile buildup with no opposition from US. The BMD and other developments add to deterrence instability. Pakistan’s strategic program has always been India-centric. Pakistan-specific sanctions indicate the ‘politically motivated sanctions’. Nevertheless, these actions would undermine the strategic balance and would achieve the opposite of what is being ‘officially’ claimed.”

“Pakistan would do whatever it takes to maintain deterrence stability. No sanctions would be able to force Pakistan to compromise on its desire for sovereignty and freedom especially in a changing security environment in the region with a Far-right expansionist regime running the show in Dehli. Pakistan will continue building on counter-force capabilities and if needed would change its strategic posture,” concluded the geopolitical analyst Talha Ahmad.

Pakistani journalist Syed Talat Hussain condemned the US policy writing on X: “US tries to hit Pakistan’s nuclear delivery systems. Announces sanctions on four entities. The real game is now coming to the fore. Now you understand what the fuss and campaign is all about.”

The federal cabinet on Wednesday decided to provide compensation of $250,000, equivalent to six crore ninety-five lac eighteen thousand nine hundred seventy-four rupees to Chinese nationals who were killed in Pakistan, The News reported.

Pakistan is working on an online application (App) for Chinese nationals to register themselves and track their movements. China has proposed to establish a joint venture security company, and such a mechanism is currently under consideration, Interior Ministry officials told the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Planning Development.

In a briefing to the National Assembly (NA) panel, the Director of the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta), Col. Usman, told the committee there were 20,000 Chinese nationals in Pakistan, including 2,700 who were working on CPEC projects and remaining on non-CPEC projects as well as those scattered in their individual capacity. The standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the security of Chinese nationals have been updated in recent months in consultation with the Chinese Embassy to provide foolproof security.

Moreover, Nacta Director Colonel Usman informed the participants that a total of 14 terrorist attacks have occurred against Chinese nationals since 2021: two in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), four in Balochistan and eight in Sindh. In these assaults, “20 Chinese were killed and 34 injured, while eight Pakistanis fell dead and 25 were injured,” he added.

Furthermore, Nacta officials said Karachi was the primary target for terrorist organisations to cause damage to Chinese interests, noting, “Hostile Intelligence Agencies (HIAs) are the main director and financier of attacks on Chinese.”

This came after two Chinese engineers returning to work on a project after a holiday in Thailand were dead in October’s airport bombing.

The attack was claimed by the banned outfit Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

The committee was also informed that in the last ten months, 7,984 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) were conducted, including 3,882 in Punjab, 994 in Sindh, 2,807 in KP, 285 in Balochistan and 16 in ICT. In these operations, 206 terrorists were killed and 1,312 arrested.

“There has been no direct terrorist attack on CPEC projects so far,” the Nacta director clarified.

The committee was told that one per cent of the cost of CPEC projects was dedicated to security purposes, and two special security divisions of the army were deployed to secure CPEC projects. The Special Protection Unit (SPU) and Special Security Units were employed to protect Chinese nationals.