Yusuf Raza Gilani

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

Yusuf Raza Gilani
یوسف رضا گیلانی
Raja Pervez Ashraf
15th Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan
In office
17 October 1993 – 16 February 1997
DeputySyed Zafar Ali Shah
Preceded byGohar Ayub Khan
Succeeded byElahi Bux Soomro
Leader of the Opposition
in the Senate of Pakistan
In office
26 March 2021 – 30 January 2022
Preceded byRaja Zafar-ul-Haq
Succeeded byShahzad Waseem
Minister for Housing and Works
In office
1988–1990
Prime MinisterBenazir Bhutto
Preceded byMir Hazar Khan Bijarani
Succeeded byIslam Nabi
Minister for Railways
In office
28 January 1986 – 20 December 1986
Prime MinisterMuhammad Khan Junejo
Preceded byAbdul Ghafoor Hoti
Succeeded bySardarzada Muhammad Ali Shah
Mayor of Multan
In office
1983–1985
Succeeded bySalahuddin Dogar
Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan
In office
29 February 2024 – 22 March 2024
ConstituencyNA-148 Multan-I
In office
19 March 2008 – 19 June 2012
ConstituencyNA-148 Multan-I
In office
19 October 1993 – 16 February 1997
ConstituencyNA-148 Multan-I
In office
1990–1993
ConstituencyNA-148 Multan-I
In office
1988–1990
ConstituencyNA-148 Multan-I
Personal details
Born (1952-06-09) 9 June 1952 (age 72)
PPP (1980-present)
SpouseFauzia Gilani
Children5 inc. Kasim Gilani
Alma materGovernment College University
University of the Punjab

Yusuf Raza Gilani[a] (born 9 June 1952) is a Pakistani politician who served as the 16th Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2008 to 2012. He is currently the Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan since 9 April 2024.[1] Gilani was re-elected on 14 March 2024 after receiving 204 votes and currently is a Senator of the Senate of Pakistan.[2]

Chairman Gilani served as the acting-President of Pakistan from 20 May 2024 till 30 May 2024, this was during the period President Asif Ali Zardari remained abroad.[3][4]

He is a veteran of

vice-chairman of the party's Central Executive Committee, and in 2021 was elected as a Senator and his term ended when he took oath as a Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan on 29 February 2024 and vacated the seat on 22 March 2024.[5]

Born into a clan of

Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi
.

Following the

parliamentary democracy and began an impeachment motion against Musharraf, which prompted the latter to abscond from the country. Furthermore, Gilani initiated ineffective foreign policies, nationalisation programmes and founded the University of Swat in July 2010. He is commonly credited with ending the judicial crisis in March 2009 and improving nuclear energy projects throughout the country. In June 2012, Gilani was disqualified by the Supreme Court of Pakistan on corruption allegations. He briefly exiled from national politics until April 2017, when his disqualification term ended. He was the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate of Pakistan
from 2021 to 2022.

Personal life and background

His family is purportedly descended from

Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani and Sufi saint Musa al-Jilani.[6][7][8]

His father Makhdoom Syed Alamdar Hussain Gilani was one of the signatories of the

Pakistan Resolution and later served as the Federal and Provincial minister of Pakistan and Punjab respectively. His uncle Makhdoom Syed Wilayat Hussain Shah served as the chairman of the District council Multan whereas he also remained a member of the legislative assembly. His grandfather Makhdoom Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah also served as the chairman of the Municipal Corporation of Multan and later got elected as a member of the legislative assembly in the 1945–46 general elections. His great-grandfather Makhdoom Syed Sadar-ud-din Shah Gilani was invited to the Delhi Darbar in 1910 whereas Sadar-ud-Din Shah Gilani's Brother Makhdoom Syed Rajan Baksh Gilani remained a member of the legislative council and later served as the first Muslim mayor of Multan.[9][10][11][12][13][14]

His uncle Miran Muhammad Shah was a landlord and spiritual leader from Rahim Yar Khan whose daughter married the Pir of Pagaro VII.[15]

His cousin

Foreign Secretary of Pakistan in 2012–2013.[16]

Family and education

Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani was born on 9 June 1952, in

Punjab.[17]
Gillani attended Government College University and obtained his B.A. in journalism in 1970,[18] and followed by an MA in Political journalism from the University of the Punjab in 1976.[18] In an interview given to Vasatolah Khan of BBC Urdu, Gilani maintained that "if he had not pursue his career in the national politics, he would have been a civil engineer."[19]

Gillani is married to Fauzia Gillani,

Brunel University of London. Gillani's daughter Fiza Gillani is the Good-Will Ambassador of Women and has one son called Asfandyar Gillani. Musa Gillani in 2009 and was an MNA in his father's cabinet. Ali Haider Gillani studied at School of Economics in Lahore. Ali Musa Gillani after completing his studies is now actively participating in politics. Ali Musa was questioned by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) agents over a scandal.[21]

On 9 May 2013, his son, Ali Haider Gilani, was kidnapped by several armed men in Multan in central Pakistan during an election rally. A group called the Al Mansuri Brigade kidnapped him.[22][23] He spent three years in captivity, before being rescued in a joint operation between American-led NATO special forces and Afghan forces in May 2016.[24][25]

Public servant

Yousaf Raza Gillani's political career started in the

Zia-ul-Haq in 1978, after he joined as a member of the Central Working Committee (CWC) of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML), alongside industrialist Nawaz Sharif.[26] He soon left the PML, because of political differences with the PML's leadership.[26] He was chosen by General Zia-ul-Haq as a nominee for public servant work in Multan. In 1983, Gillani was elected as the chairman of the District Council Multan commonly known as District Mayor or Zila Nazim in Pakistan.[27]

He first ran in non-partisan and technocratic

government of Prime minister Benazir Bhutto and became minister of the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in March 1989 until January 1990.[26] Later he became minister of Ministry of Housing and Work Force.[26]

Gillani also retained his seat in the 1990 general elections by gaining more than 60 Thousand votes. He once again successfully ran in the 1993 general elections and took the oath of the office of Minister for Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.[26] However, he resigned from his ministry after being nominated by Benazir Bhutto for office of the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan in 1993. He was the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan until 1997 when the new general election in 1997 was held in the country. He was succeeded by Ilahi Bux Soomro of the Pakistan Muslim League-N on 2 February 1997.[26]

In July 2018, he contested from constituency NA-158(multan) but lost from PTI candidate Muhammad Ibrahim Khan. He secured 74443 votes and Muhammad Ibrahim Khan got 83304 votes.[28]

Imprisonment

Inaugurating a Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited Zonal Office at Muzzafarabad

Yousaf Raza Gillani was arrested on 11 February 2001 by the Military Police functioning under the military-controlled National Accountability Bureau (NAB)— an anti-corruption agency set up by the military government in 1999, over charges that he, along with other politicians, misused his authority while he was Speaker of the National Assembly in 1993–97. Specifically, he was accused of hiring up to 600 people from among his constituents and placing them on the government's payroll.[29] The NAB claimed that Gillani inflicted a loss of Rs 30 million annually on the national exchequer.[30] He was convicted by an anti-corruption court headed by an active-duty officer appointed by General Musharraf and spent nearly six years in prison.[31]

The legal proceedings were perceived by many as politically motivated; his party, the PPP, was in opposition to Musharraf, who had embarked on a campaign to

Contempt of Court, becoming Pakistan's first Prime Minister to be convicted while holding office.[33] He was sentenced to be held in custody till the rising of court, a symbolic sentence lasting 30 seconds.[34]

Prime Minister of Pakistan

Further information: Gillani government

On 22 March 2008, after weeks of consideration, the elite members of the Central Executive Committee accepted the nomination of Gillani over populist Ameen Faheem for the post of prime minister. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Peoples Party completed consultations and negotiations with the other parties to form a coalition alliance and the alliance endorsed the nomination. The formal announcement of the name of prime minister was expected to be made that night.

On 22 March at 9:38 pm Islamabad, (16:38 GMT), Gillani was officially announced by the peoples party as its candidate for the premiership of the country. Many analysts said that they would not be surprised if Zardari succeeded Gillani after a few months. It was reported on 24 March 2008, that Zardari said he was not interested in the job of prime minister and that Gillani would serve until 2013 in the position. Speculation that Zardari might be gunning for the premiership grew stronger when he picked the less popular Gillani over Ameen Faheem, a much powerful member of the central executive committee. Fahmida Mirza, the newly elected Speaker of the Assembly, insisted there was no plan to replace Gillani. She added, however, that if Gillani did not do a good job, all options were open.[35]

On 24 March 2008, Gillani was elected Prime Minister by Parliament, defeating his rival,

Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi of the PML-Q, by a score of 264 to 42.[36] He was sworn in by Musharraf on the next day.[37] On 29 March, he won a unanimous vote of confidence in Parliament.[38]

On the same day, following the

vote of confidence
, Gillani announced his programme for the first 100 days of his administration. Some of the points he announced were:

Consolidation of power

Further information:
Movement to impeach Pervez Musharraf

The first part of Gillani's Cabinet was sworn in on 31 March. Of the 24 ministers sworn in on this occasion, 11 were members of the Pakistan Peoples Party, nine were members of the

collective leadership with full force.[41] Musharraf failed to gather the support in the country, and Gillani's position was fairly secure; however he could not have remove Musharraf alone.[42]

Gillani secretly but more effectively persuaded his party's leadership to bring about an impeachment motion against President Pervez Musharraf.[43] According to The News International, Gillani reportedly told at the meeting of the central committee that "they all should "swim and sink" with the political forces of PML in the larger interests of democracy.[43] Sources claimed that Gillani had raised concerns bout the deteriorating image of the peoples party, which was seen as working with Musharraf to the much annoyance of the media and the people of Pakistan.[43] Gillani assertively pleaded to central committee that "if at any stage they all have to make a final choice between Musharraf and Nawaz Sharif, then central committee's leaders should be standing with the PML in line with the democratic credentials of the party."[44]

On 13 May 2008, the PML (N) ministers resigned from Gillani's government due to a disagreement related to the reinstatement of judges whom Musharraf removed from office in 2007. Zardari, hoping to preserve the coalition, told Gillani to reject the resignations.

movement led by the Peoples Party-Muslim league nexus, Musharraf dramatically resigned from the presidency after delivering an hour long farewell speech on 18 August 2008.[49] Reacting upon Musharraf's removal, Gillani publicly called for national celebration, and marked Musharraf's resignation as "historic day."[49] Nationwide celebration were held in the entire country.[49] In a special sitting of parliament, Gillani quoted to his collective alliance, "Today we have buried dictatorship for ever."[49]

Energy policy

Main articles:
Pakistan national energy policy
Gillani shaking hands with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

In April 2010, Gillani announced the

energy policy to deal with the severe electricity shortage facing Pakistan.[50] In 2010, Gillani went on to attend the Nuclear Security Summit held in Washington, D.C., where he issued a statement saying Pakistan would like to act as a provider and "participate in any non-discriminatory nuclear fuel cycle assurance mechanism.[51] His government tightened the nuclear safety programme, and expanded the role of Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA).[51] In 2012, Gillani attended the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit where he defended the right of Pakistan's access to nuclear technology for peaceful uses on a non-discriminatory basis.[52] His government announced the approval the safeguards agreements of the two commercial civil nuclear power plants, and inaugurated the CHASNUPP-III nuclear power plant in Chasma.[53] In 2012, Gillani gave approval of establishing two civilian nuclear power plant in Karachi to meet the future energy needs of financial and economical development.[53]

After the

military court instituted under President Pervez Musharraf[55] on accusations and charges of corruption, and released on 7 October 2006.[11][55]

On 9 April 2012, Gillani chaired the second energy conference held in Lahore.[56] As part of the federal government's energy conservation plan, Gillani had ordered that air-conditioners of the Prime Minister House and Prime Minister's Secretariat could not be switched on before 11 am.[57][58] According to the government sources, Gillani's government has levelled up the nuclear energy programme up ~ 78% for two combined 664 MW commercial nuclear plants, C-3 and C-4 at Chashma Nuclear Power Complex to be completed at their record time.[59] The ground work on Karachi Nuclear Power Complex was also laid in 2012 as part of his nuclear policy.[59] Amid public rage and media pressure, the Gillani government also intensified its ground work on the Thar coal electric project that could develop another source of cheap electricity generation, despite the strong opposition by the planning commission.[59]

On 18 June 2012, a strong and powerful public protest took place against the electricity shortage and load shedding, in Punjab Province.[60] The offices of WAPDA corporations were destroyed, a fashion mall was looted while a completely gutted a three carriages of the train.[61] After learning the news, Gillani summoned a national energy conference in Islamabad to take notice of power crisis.[62] Gillani ordered his staff to double its effort to harness the electricity by any means of force after chairing the conference.[63]

Pakistan does not harbour

nuclear weapons policy statement in 2012, source[64]

Financial and economic policy

Main articles:
Periods of Stagflation
state currency
, indicating the country's return to "Era of Stagflation" (a virtual period faced by Pakistan in the 1990s).

In his first days of government, Gillani attempted to continue the

Finance ministers[66] and surprisingly appointed the former minister privatisation and investment in the government of Shaukat Aziz, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh as a new Finance Minister.[67] Early attempts were to discontinue the nationalisation programme by Gillani's government and instead replacing it with a new system based on state capitalism.[68] The state-owned corporations were set off to privatisation menu and his government approved a new menu of privatisation based on public private partnership (PPP) with transfer of management control and 26% shares of 21 state owned enterprises (SOEs).[68] No timetable was given instead his government announced that the privatisation process would be completed when international market would be feasible.[68] During his first years of government, Gillani's government obtained unprecedented loans from International Monetary Fund which increased the level of poverty in the country.[69]

GDP growth
rate dropped down to 4.19% (2009) as compared to 8.96% in 2004.

In January 2012, Prime minister Gillani announced the "economic sector have been achieved during the first six months of the current fiscal due to the prudent policies of the present government".

PEPCo were proposed by the finance ministry to privatise the power distribution companies.[72] Major worker's strike were initiated by the central labour unions, and after receiving much criticism, his government halted the privatisation programme of energy sector, and nationalised the remaining power sector industries due to public pressure.[73][74]

According to the calculation performed by Transparency International (TI), Pakistan has lost an unbelievably high amount, more than Rs 8,500 billion (Rs 8.5 trillion or US$94 billion), in corruption, tax evasion and bad governance during the last four years of Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani's tenure.[69] An adviser of TI acknowledged that "Pakistan does not need even a single penny from the outside world if it effectively checks the menace of corruption and ensures good governance".[69] The Transparency International also noted that the four years of the present regime under Gilani had been the worst in terms of corruption and bad governance in the country's history.[69] After the recognition of failure of privatisation programme, Gillani gave authorisation of controversial

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province on 15 December 2011.[75] Under this programme, three major and giant corporations, Steel Mills, Pakistan Railways and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), were brought down under the government ownership, in an attempt to restructure, and made profitable.[75]

On 1 June 2012, prime minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani claimed that the government was committed to resolving the energy crisis and achieving energy security for the country, adding that Pakistan's power sector was presently facing a wide demand-supply gap, which had necessitated the enhancement of generation capacity as well as related infrastructure.[76]

In spite of many attempts to produce effective outcomes, the dramatic high rise in

Pakistan economy slowed down dramatically to ~4.09% as compared to 8.96%—9.0% presided under his predecessor, Shaukat Aziz in 2004–08; while the yearly growth rate has come down from a long-term average of 5.0% to ~2.0%, though it did not reached to negative level.[78] Calculation performed by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, it pointed out that the "nation's currency in circulation as a percentage of total deposits is 31%, which is very high as compared to India", where 40.0% of the population fell under the line of poverty, with 16.0% rise in the inflation during his four years of presiding over the country.[80] The new strict and tight monetary policy could not tame the soaring inflation, it did stagnate the economic growth.[79] One economist maintained that stagflation took place when the tight monetary policy did not encourage the strong private sector to play a key part in growth. Analyzing the stagflation problem, the PIDE observed that a major cause of continuous era of stagflation in Pakistan was lack of co-ordination between fiscal and monetary authorities.[79][80]

Domestic policies

Main articles:
Collectivity of leadership

First public speech as Prime minister

On 19 July 2008 at 11:06 pm (Pakistan Standard Time), Gillani appeared on PTV News in his first address to the nation. The main points in his address were focused on the crisis of flour shortage, load-shedding, terrorism and extremism, restoration of judges, economic downslide and, above all, inflation and unemployment in the country.

2008 assassination attempt

Gillani escaped an assassination attempt on 3 September 2008,[81] when unidentified gunmen fired shots at his motorcade near the garrison city of Rawalpindi, officials said. The shooting occurred shortly after Gillani was returning from an official visit to the eastern city of Lahore. His motorcade was going to Islamabad from the high-security Chaklala military airbase in Rawalpindi. A spokesman for the Prime Minister's House said Gillani and members of his staff had escaped unhurt and were safe. He said police had been put on high alert and an investigation launched into the incident. The unidentified assailants fired at Gillani's motorcade on a highway. At least two shots hit the Prime Minister's bulletproof vehicle, TV channels quoted officials as saying. State-run PTV beamed footage of the damage caused by the bullets to the window of the driver's door of the vehicle. Reports said the incident occurred at a spot where former premier and PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif's motorcade was fired at on 27 December last year, shortly before Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairperson Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in a suicide bombing in Rawalpindi.

According to Gillani's press secretary, Zahid Bashir, a car carrying Gillani was hit by 10 bullets in an attack near Islamabad on 3 September 2008; Bashir said that Gillani was unharmed.[82] The Pakistan-based Taliban group claimed responsibility for the attack.[83]

Cultural policies and media reforms

Main articles:
British heritage of Pakistan, and Culture of Pakistan

Upon coming to power, Gillani emphasised his media policy by noting to the fact that "a free and robust media is the main pillar of the Pakistan Government's media policy."[84] Gillani pushed forward a proposal which amended the "Draconian" laws in past to support media freedom in the country.[85]

Pakistan is not only a state but an idea and an ideal that our courageous and talented people strive, in their daily lives, to translate into reality.

— Gillani, 2011 state of the union address to Parliament, Cited source[86]

Gillani followed the cultural and television policy of

national spirit in the country.[85] In 2011, after the Secret Pakistan went on-air, Gillani ordered the blocking out of the BBC World and banned the channel in the country.[87] Banning of BBC World deeply concerned the BBC authorities and the BBC executives immediately met with Gillani to resolve the issue.[87] The BBC World was restored after BBC world ordered a full-fledged investigation into the matter.[87]

In 2011

Pakistan-China Friendship Centre, a centre of excellence of promoting the cultural relations of China and Pakistan.[89]

In 2012, Gilani lastly paid a state visit to the United Kingdom and met with

Pakistan-UK relationship as unique, warm and cordial and said it was based on shared values, history, culture and strong people-to-people contact.[90]

Role in Chief Justice restoration and Constitutional amendments

Main articles: Suspension of Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry and Amendments to the Constitution of Pakistan

During the judicial crisis of March 2009, Gillani played swift but vital role in ending the serious

Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry. This, according to some analysts, has strengthened his role as Prime Minister.[91]

Since 2008, his government and the Parliament has carried out major constitutional amendments intended to enhance and strengthen the parliamentary democracy in the country.[92] In April 2010, the Parliament unanimously passed the XVIII Amendment which removed the presidential powers, limiting the role of presidency in the politics, and turned the political system of Pakistan from a semi-presidential to a parliamentary republic.[92] In December 2010, the XIX and XX amendments were passed which gave more power, responsibilities and strengthened the position of the office of prime minister.[93]

Intervention in Afghanistan war

Main articles:
War in North-West Pakistan

Immediately after holding the office, a multi-pronged strategy for tribal areas and the war in Afghanistan was approved by Gilani after reviewing the progress on the

army-navy-air force efforts that are synergized within a framework of jointness and inter-operability to meet present and future challenges".[95] After a year of careful study, General Majid's plan was submitted to Gillani who approved the new strategy, which followed the new order of battle and new deployments of combat units of joint army-navy-air force in the north-western region.[95]

Unlike the predecessor

Tribal belt.[96] A final unified operation was commenced in 2009 under codename, Rah-e-Nijat, which brought the areas inflicted of terrorism back in the government control.[97]

In 2012, Gilani attempted to end the violence and bloodshed in Afghanistan after going to

Qatari government to established an office there. Gillani also secured his place at the negotiations on Afghanistan's future.[98]

Foreign relations

Main article:
Foreign policy of Pakistan

After resuming the office, Gillani's foreign policy greatly relaxed the

country's role in the war on terror in 2010.[99] The comments brought hostility between two countries, though Gilani reconciled the matter with the British counterpart. In 2011, British Prime Minister David Cameron visited Pakistan and called for "fresh start" in relations with Pakistan as he offered £650m in aid and better security co-operation.[100][101] In May 2012, Gilani paid back the trip to United Kingdom and held frank discussion with British counterpart to boost military and strategic ties and to increase bilateral trade, economic growth and development, cultural co-operation, security and education.[102] At the end of trip, Cameron and Gillani launched a Trade and Investment Framework to set out the steps both governments will take to promote investment, support business and achieve the target of increasing bilateral trade to $2.5 billion by 2015.[102][103]

If we do not establish a regional harmony based on trade, investment and economic growth, we fear, we will remain hostage to the past. The 21st century is the "

Asian century", and Asia's role in the global economic order has changed rapidly.....

— Gillani, speech on the Boao Forum for Asia in the view of the Asian unity[104]

In 2012, he notably called for "Asian Unity" during the attending session of the

free-trade agreement and the investment treaty to increase the German direct investment in the country.[105] In May 2011, Gillani paid a three-day state visit to France to hold discussion on security co-operation and economic partnership.[106] Gallani met with Nicolas Sarkozy and signed agreement on co-operation on energy, telecommunication, infrastructure development, banking, environment, waste management and defence.[106]

Afghanistan and India

Main articles:
Afghanistan-Pakistan relations and Afghanistan–Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement

Since assuming office of the premier, Gillani was planning to visit neighbouring

Ahmed Shuja Pasha. After successful dialogue, it was mutually decided to form a Reconciliation Committee headed by foreign ministers of both the countries.[107]

On 22 December 2011, Gillani told an audience at the National Gallery that conspirators were plotting to bring down his government.[108]

Main articles:
2011 India–Pakistan border shooting, and Indo-Pak Joint Judicial Committee

The Mumbai attack nearly pushed the two countries to the war-like situation; Gillani promoted to his counterpart to punished and brought the punish perpetrators of such heinous attack to justice. In 2011, Indian Prime minister Manmohan Singh described Gillani as "Man of Peace".[109][110][111]

United States and Russia

PM Gillani meeting with the US President Obama in 2012.

Attempts were made to enhance diplomatic relations with the United States, however as the time passed, Gillani's relations with the United States became somewhat troubled, although United States maintained farewell relations with him.

ISI is working with the American CIA. What else do you want?".[113]

The United States is into the election year and (President) Obama's decision has been aimed at gaining political mileage... President Barack Obama is using drone strikes in Pakistan tribal regions for political motives

— Yousaf Raza Gillani, 2012, Cited source[114]

In 2011, the relations with United States suffered a major set back and resentment when the United States unilaterally conducted a

Usama Bin Laden. Immediately after learning the news, Gillani and President Zardari chaired a high-level meeting with the senior military leadership in Islamabad.[115] Gillani reportedly announced that: "We will not allow our soil to be used against any other country for terrorism and therefore, I think it's a great victory, it's a success and I congratulate the success of this operation." Later Gilani blamed the world for their failure to capture bin Laden.[116] The relationship between Pakistan and the United States fell to a new low following the Salala Incident, with his government and the elite Pakistani military establishment reassessing their diplomatic, political, military and intelligence relationship with the United States.[117]

All major

NATO supply lines were immediately closed[118][119][120] leaving the blockaded supply trucks vulnerable to attacks.[121] On 26 November 2011, Gillani's government ordered the US to shut down and vacate the PAF Base Shamsi in the southwestern Balochistan province within a deadline of 15 days. On 10 December, the troops from the Frontier Corps took full control of the air force base as scheduled, and by 11 December all remaining American staff were evacuated.[122]
Prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani informed the cabinet that Pakistan was at a critical juncture in its relationship with the US and NATO and it was time to make some important decisions."Decisions regarding ties with the US and NATO will be made in the national interest."[123] In December 2011, Gillani reportedly told the BBC interviewer that "his country does not trust the United States, and the feeling is mutual".[124] Although, he did goaded that relations were important and maintained: "We are working together and still we don't trust each other... we should have more confidence in each other..".[124]

The

relations with Russia were pushed to level of intensity of bilateral relations, which he termed it as "New Momentum".[125] In 2012, Gillani publicly greets Vladimir Putin for successfully contesting in Russian presidential elections.[126]

In 2011, Prime minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and Russian Prime minister (now President) Vladimir Putin held a frank discussion in a cordial atmosphere on 10th Heads of Government meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.[127] Gilani successfully convinced Russia finance and invest in the large energy projects including Central Asia-South Asia 1000 (CASA-1000) to allow the international transition of the power generation from Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan. Russia has provided US$500 million for the CASA-1000 for the power transmission project.[127] In 2011, both countries initiated the work on the framework n the proposed Free Trade Agreement and currency swap arrangement to boost bilateral trade and further strengthen their economic ties.[127] On 4 March 2012, only few hours being re-elected, Gilani telephoned Putin and greeted him on his success in the election for the President of Russia, and quoted: "it was a testimony to the confidence the people of Russia had reposed in his leadership".[128]

Memogate, Mediagate scandals and subsequent conflicts

Main articles:
Mediagate (Pakistan)

On 10 October 2011, US-based businessman

the unilateral US raid that killed al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden. He said that a senior Pakistan diplomat telephoned him with an urgent request early on 9 May, exactly a week after the raid against bin Laden.[129]

Prime Minister Gillani participates in a bilateral meeting with President Obama in Seoul, 2012.

Though the Pakistan Government subsequently rejected his claims, it triggered a storm in the country's political science circles, especially between the civil government and the military. A judicial commission was subsequently appointed to investigate the matter.

Meanwhile, Chairman joint chiefs Shameem Wynne's request to the supreme court for an independent probe into the matter was accepted. The court rejected the government's contention that the issue should be investigated by a parliamentary panel.[130]

Tensions between the government and the military reached a peak after Gillani said the armed forces and the intelligence chiefs had acted in an "unconstitutional and illegal" manner by filing affidavits on the memo issue in the Supreme Court. The military reacted within days through a strongly worded statement that said the premier's remarks could have "grievous consequences".[130]

Gillani retaliated by sacking Defence Secretary Lieutenant General (retired) Khalid Naeem Lodhi, a confidant of

chief of army staff General Pervez Kiani. He reiterated that the Defence Secretary was removed in accordance with the law as he had made a mistake by not following the government's rules. He maintained that he was only answerable to the Parliament.[131]

Disqualification petition

On 29 March 2012, a civilian resident of Johar Town Lahore, Tariq Ahmed, filed a court petition in the Lahore High Court, seeking to hear the case of disqualification of Yousaf Raza Gillani.[132] The plea was filed in the High Court in which the petitioner took the stance that "Fauzia Gillani— spouse of Prime Minister Gillani received loans of millions of rupees from the Agriculture Development Bank Ltd (ADB) and the National Bank of Pakistan for the two mega-corporation owned by the Gillani family of which Fauzia Gillani served both megacorporation's executive director. None of the loans of millions of rupees were paid back to the banks.[132]

The Constitution of Pakistan's Article 63(1)(n) and Article 63(1)(o) provide for a Member of Parliament's disqualification if he/she is a defaulter of a loan of more than PKR 2 million (63(1)(n)) or if his.her spouse or dependents have defaulted on payment of utility bills of more than PKR 10,000 (63(1)(o)).[133] Petitioner pointed out that apart from that in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities (SAL) as of 2007 investment in shares by her spouse, ownership of inherited assets and house in the Defence Housing Authority, Lahore (DHA Lahore), have not been declared in their SAL submission list given to the Election Commission of Pakistan.[132] The court after hearing the petitioner has asked the Deputy Attorney General to assist the Court on next hearing date 4 April 2012.[132]

The disqualification petition was put to rest by the ruling of the

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, that the petition does not hold ground.[134]

Conviction on charges of Contempt of Court

On 26 April 2012, Gillani was convicted on the charges of

Contempt of Court, becoming Pakistan's first Prime Minister to be convicted while holding office.[33] He was sentenced to be held in custody till the rising of court, a symbolic sentence lasting 30 seconds.[34] The verdict was a short order[135] and the full verdict of the court (over 70 pages)[136] had been reserved, and was handed over after few days' time. Gillani's lawyer Aitzaz Ahsan announced that the Prime Minister shall file an appeal against the Supreme Court's verdict once the full verdict is handed over, despite opposition parties urgings.[137] However, Gilani refused to step down.[138]

On 28 May 2012, the issue of the disqualification of the

Fehmida Mirza, to not to send the disqualification reference to the Election Commission of Pakistan.[134]

Subsequently, the Prime Minister and his legal team decided not to file a petition against the conviction.[139] Talking to the media representatives, the Prime Minister maintained that he acted to defend the Constitution of Pakistan,[140] which according to the Supreme Court amounted to contempt of court.[141]

On 24 May 2012, the

Peoples Party directed the case to speaker of the National Assembly to review the case of Gillani, in light of the apex court's verdict.[142] The speaker ruled out that, despite being convict, Gillani cannot be disqualified from the provisions of the paragraph Article 63(g) or either Article 63(h) of the Constitution.[143] Following her rulings, the speaker also decided not to forwarded the reference against Gillani's disqualification to Election Commission. On 29 May, Gillani appeared in media and vigorously defended speaker's decision and quoted: "..(...) The National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza's ruling pertaining to the disqualification reference was final and could not be challenged...()...".[144]

Necklace Scandal

In 2015, Gilani was ordered to return a necklace that had been donated by the Turkish First Lady for the victims of the 2010 floods in Pakistan. The Gilanis had held on to it and kept it after being ousted from premiership.[145]

Vote Buying in Senate Elections

In 2021, a video emerged of Gilani's son offering cash for votes in Pakistan's Senate Elections. The ruling party at the time tried but failed to get the Election Commission to investigate the matter.[146][147]

Disqualification and ouster

Main article: Supreme Court of Pakistan

After the Speaker's ruling was made public, the major opposition party in the parliament, the Pakistan Muslim League, and the non-elected party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), filed two separate petition in the supreme court, challenging the National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza's ruling to save Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani from disqualification.[148] The petitioners pointed out that Article 184(3) of the Constitution stands to "disqualified in light of the apex court's verdict and that he should be barred from performing further duties as the prime minister."[148]

Gillani speaking to reporters in a 2008 state visit to the United States.

On 6 June 2012, the Supreme Court admitted the petitions and a three-member bench was formed to be headed by

Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry to hear the petitions.[149] After hearing petitions by both sides, the notices were sent to prime minister, speaker of the national assembly, and other concerned offices to the case. The hearing of the petitions was subsequently adjourned to 14 June 2012.[149] On 15 June, Gillani's lawyer senator Aitzaz Ahsan defended speaker's move, and argued that "the office of speaker was no more 'a post office' after the 18th Amendment as it had been drastically changed" and that "[the speaker] had used her quasi judicial powers and gave her ruling over the issue with due application of her mind".[150] Ahsan maintained that the prime minister had accepted the conviction but not disqualification.[150] On 17 June, Ahsan concluded that speaker's ruling was in accordance with parliamentary ethics and reiterated that the ruling in the contempt of court case did not refer to a disqualification of the prime minister.[151] Mirza also submitted the written statement in which, she maintained that the court's ruling did not order that a reference on the issue should directly be sent to the Election Commission, and has had the constitutional authority to decide over the disqualification of a member of the assembly.[151] Her written statement was discarded by the supreme court, and reserved the final decision of Gillani's qualification matter.[151] At the end of the proceedings, the chief justice marked that the petitions had stated that a "convicted person" was representing the people; the prime minister represented the public and not a party.[151] Minutes before adjourning the court, the chief justice quoted: "The fate of the people was in the hands of a man who had been convicted by the Supreme Court... (...)..".[151]

Finally on 19 June 2012, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ousted and further disqualified Prime Minister Gillani citing the earlier conviction on 26 April 2012.[152][153] The Supreme Court in its standing orders, said that "Gillani was ineligible to hold the Prime Minister's office after April 26th conviction" and all orders given by him till date would stand null and void.[154] Consequently, the Election Commission issued the government notification with regards to the disqualification of Gillani.[155] The country's election commission noted that, accepting the rulings of Supreme Court, Gillani was disqualified as a member of parliament with effect immediately from 26 April 2012.[155]

Post premiership

His disqualification term was ended in April 2017 and the Supreme Court allowed him to contest in the 2018 Pakistani general election.[156]

He was PPP's candidate for Islamabad's general seat in the 2021 Senate Elections. He defeated the incumbent government's candidate Minister of Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh in a major upset victory, prompting the incumbent PM Imran Khan to take a vote of confidence from the National Assembly.

On 12 March 2021, he contested for the chairmanship of the Senate of Pakistan and lost to his rival Sadiq Sanjrani. Gilani received 42 votes, compared to his rival who received 48 votes. 7 votes were rejected.

In April 2024, Gilani was elected unopposed as the Chairman of the Senate.[157]

Chairman Gilani served as the acting-President of Pakistan from 20 May 2024 till 30 May 2024, from 10 October 2024 till 11 October 2024, from 30 October 2024 till 9 November 2024, from 4 February 2025 till 8 February 2025, from 9 February 2025 till 12 February 2025 and then again from 13 March 2025 till 16 March 2025, this was during periods the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari remained abroad.[158][159][160][161][162][163][164][165][166][167][168]

Legacy

Gilani was

Pervez Ashraf's tenure as leader, there was an increase in criticism of the Gillanian years, even after the NRO squabble was eventually resolved in the government headed by Pervez Ashraf.[170]

A consistently strong US ally as prime minister,

Iftikhar Chaudhry clarifying that: "Gillani had ceased to be [the] prime minister and (is) disqualified from membership of parliament on 26 April 2012, the date of his conviction".[177][178]

In the wake of the

Era of Stagflation".[182][183][184]

Book

Notes

  1. Urdu: یوسف رضا گیلانی; pronounced [ˈjuːsʊf rəˈzaː ɡɪˈlaːniː]

References

  1. ^ "PPP formally names Gilani for Senate chairman". The Express Tribune. 5 April 2024. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  2. ^ "Gilani triumphant from Islamabad as PPP dominates Senate by-polls". The Express Tribune. 14 March 2024. Retrieved 14 March 2024.
  3. ^ Web Desk (20 May 2024). "Gilani to take charge as acting president during Zardari's absence". ARY NEWS. Retrieved 20 May 2024.
  4. ^ "Zardari leaves for Dubai". www.thenews.com.pk. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  5. ^ @KasimGillani (22 March 2024). "Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani has been notified as a senator, his National Assembly seat #NA148 stands vacant" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  6. ^ "Gilani in Tehran: Iran to give $100 million for flood affected in Sindh". The Express Tribune. 1 September 2011. Archived from the original on 23 March 2017. Retrieved 22 March 2017. The Prime Minister while responding to the sentiments of the Iranian Interior Minister said that he considered Iran as his second home because his ancestors belonged to Gilan province which he intends to visit.
  7. ^ "Gilani returns to Pakistan from Iran". Dunya News. 14 September 2011. Retrieved 10 November 2022.
  8. ^ "Pakistan seeking to strengthen ties with Iran". 16 April 2008. Archived from the original on 23 March 2017. Retrieved 22 March 2017.
  9. ^ "NAB files reference against ex-premier Yousuf Raza Gilani". Archived from the original on 13 September 2018. Retrieved 13 September 2018.
  10. ^ "Senate election: PPP's Yousaf Raza Gillani defeats Hafeez Sheikh". The News International. 3 March 2021. Retrieved 9 March 2021.
  11. ^ a b "PPP leader released from Adiala prison". Dawn. 21 December 2002. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  12. ^ Boone, Jon (19 June 2012). "Pakistan court strips Yousuf Raza Gilani of prime ministership". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 11 September 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  13. ^ "Government of Pakistan website". Pakistan.gov.pk. Archived from the original on 27 January 2006. Retrieved 21 June 2012.
  14. ^ "Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani (Profile), Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan". Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of Pakistan website. 2 April 2011. Archived from the original on 16 June 2012. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
  15. ^ Tunio, Hafeez (11 January 2012). "Pir Pagara passes away: The political oracle goes silent". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  16. ^ "Jalil Abbas Jilani assumes charge as Pakistan's Foreign Secretary". The Economic Times. 4 March 2012. Retrieved 10 July 2020.
  17. ^ GoPak, Government of Pakistan (24 March 2004). "Prime minister of Pakistan Yousaf Raza Gillani". Government of Pakistan (Ministry of Information and Mass Media Broadcasting). Electronic Government of Pakistan (Prime minister Secretariat). Archived from the original on 16 June 2012. Retrieved 14 May 2012.
  18. ^ a b Press. "The first Prime minister from Multan". Ours' Multan. Archived from the original on 28 April 2012. Retrieved 14 May 2012.
  19. ^ Vastollah Khan (9 September 2009). "if not a politician, then it would be an architecture". BBC Urdu (in Urdu). BBC Urdu; Islamabad Directorate. Archived from the original on 17 January 2014. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  20. ^ Sports Desk (23 January 2012). "Fauzia Gilani witnesses cricket match". The Nation, 23 January 2012. Archived from the original on 20 September 2013. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  21. ^ "Pakistan: Mr. Nice Guy and Mr. Ten Percent: The prime minister is convicted of contempt by the Supreme Court", The Economist, dated 5 May 2012.
  22. ^ "Stiff Upper Lip". 22 September 2013. Archived from the original on 21 October 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  23. ^ "Son of former Pakistan PM kidnapped at gunpoint during election rally". NBC News. Archived from the original on 10 May 2013. Retrieved 9 May 2013.
  24. ^ Nadeem Shah (20 December 2015). "PPP launched operation against militants: Gilani". The News. Archived from the original on 24 December 2015. Retrieved 23 December 2015.
  25. ^ "Pakistan ex-PM's kidnapped son rescued in Afghanistan". BBC News. 11 May 2016. Archived from the original on 14 June 2018. Retrieved 11 May 2016.
  26. ^ a b c d e f g GoPAK. "Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani (Profile)". Electronic Government of Pakistan, Ministry of Information and Media Broadcasting. Electronic Government of Pakistan, Informatics. Archived from the original on 16 June 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  27. ^ a b c d e f Hasan, Syed Shoaib (17 June 2009). "Profile: Yousuf Raza Gilani". BBC Pakistan, 2008. Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  28. ^ "NA-158 Results - Election 2018 Results - - Candidates List - Constituency Details - Geo.tv". www.geo.tv. Retrieved 16 January 2021.
  29. ^ Jane Perlez. 'Pakistani Party's Leader Chooses a Prime Minister' Archived 23 July 2016 at the Wayback Machine The New York Times. 22 March 2008.
  30. ^ Muhammad Najeeb. 'Top PPP leader held for graft' Archived 17 April 2008 at the Wayback Machine Tribune India, 12 February 2001.
  31. ^ 'Gillani convicted to 5-year RI' Archived 5 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine Dawn Newspaper, 8 June 2002
  32. ^ Naveed Siddiqui. 'Release not part of deal: Gillani'[permanent dead link‍] The Nation, 7 October 2006
  33. ^ a b "Prime Minister convicted". Dawn. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  34. ^ a b "30 seconds in custody". Dawn. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 28 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  35. ^ Bhutto's Former Bhutto aide expected to be new Pakistan prime minister Archived 25 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine CNN, 24 March 2008
  36. ^ "Pakistan assembly elects new PM" Archived 25 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine, Al Jazeera, 24 March 2008.
  37. ^ "U.S. diplomats court new Pakistani leaders" Archived 27 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine, International Herald Tribune, 25 March 2008.
  38. ^ "Pakistan PM gets vote of confidence" Archived 30 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine, Al Jazeera, 29 March 2008.
  39. ^ Gillani wins unanimous trust vote: • Student, trade unions restored • Minimum wage fixed at Rs6,000 • Concurrent List to go • Wheat support price raised * Ministers restricted to 1600 cc cars – DAWN – Top Stories; 30 March 2008 Archived 2 April 2008 at the Wayback Machine. DAWN. Retrieved 17 November 2011.
  40. ^ "24 members cabinet sworn in" Archived 8 December 2008 at the Wayback Machine, www.onlinenews.com.pk.
  41. ^ Dr Nazir Ahmed (13 December 2009). "Pakistan People's Party – collective leadership failure". Dr Nazir Ahmed. Archived from the original on 28 July 2011. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  42. ^ (Xinhua) (30 May 2008). "Gillani:Impeachment of Musharraf only through consensus". China Daily. Archived from the original on 6 June 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  43. ^ a b c Staff (11 August 2008). "Gilani played behind-the-scene role in persuading Zardari to impeach Musharraf". India News. Archived from the original on 13 May 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  44. ^ Staff reports (11 August 2008). "Gilani persuaded Zardari to impeach Musharraf". Zee News, Monday, 11 August 2008, 00:00. Archived from the original on 20 June 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  45. ^ "Pakistan's Zardari rejects ally's resignations" Archived 28 August 2008 at the Wayback Machine, Reuters (International Herald Tribune), 16 May 2008.
  46. ^ The Financial Daily, 1 February 2009 Archived 4 December 2013 at the Wayback Machine
  47. ^ "Pakistan coalition to pursue Musharraf impeachment". CNN Edition. 7 August 2008. Archived from the original on 3 December 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  48. ^ Staff (7 August 2008). "Pakistan coalition to move for Musharraf impeachment". Reuters Pakistan. Archived from the original on 13 November 2012. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  49. ^ a b c d Staff (18 August 2008). "akistan's Musharraf steps down". Al-Jazeera, Pakistan 18 August 2008 21:19 GMT. Archived from the original on 29 January 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2012.
  50. ^ "Pakistan's PM announces energy policy to tackle crisis". BBC. 22 April 2010. Archived from the original on 25 April 2010. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
  51. ^ a b Muhammad Saleh Zaafir (13 April 2010). "National statement on nuclear security regime". The News International, Tuesday, 13 April 2010. Archived from the original on 15 February 2011. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  52. ^ APP (26 March 2012). "Pakistan needs nuclear technology to meet energy needs: Gilani". Dawn News, 26 March 2012. Archived from the original on 28 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  53. ^ a b The News report (23 April 2012). "Pakistan plans to build two nuclear power plants in Sindh". NDTV (New Delhi Television Limited). Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  54. ^ a b PLO. "Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani". Pakistan Leaders Online and Web Design services by Pakistan Web Host. Pakistan Leaders Online. Archived from the original on 22 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  55. ^ a b Shah, Sabir (26 April 2012). "Gilani spent more time in jail than on throne so far". The News International, Thursday, 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  56. ^ Press. "PM Gilani chairs energy conference in Lahore today". GEO Pakistan Desk. GEO TV, 2010. Archived from the original on 11 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  57. ^ Staff reports. "Energy conference today Expert opinion to be valued, says Gilani". DAWN. Archived from the original on 18 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  58. ^ APP. "Government working hard to control energy crisis: Gilani". DAWN NEWS. Archived from the original on 16 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  59. ^ a b c Rana, Shahbaz (31 May 2012). "Budget: Govt looking to charge up nuclear power plants". The Tribune Express, 31 May 2012. Archived from the original on 3 June 2012. Retrieved 31 May 2012. The atomic energy commission budget has been increased by a whopping 78% to Rs 39.2 billion in the upcoming financial year in a bid to up the ante on nuclear power plants for cheaper electricity.
  60. ^ Press Release (19 June 2012). "Violent power protests continue in Punjab, 3 killed". Dunya News Channel, 19 June. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
  61. ^ Press (19 June 2012). "Power riots turn ugly in Punjab". The News international (TNI) Gillani. Archived from the original on 19 June 2012. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
  62. ^ Farrukh Shabbir (18 June 2012). "PM calls for energy conference following violent Punjab protests". AAJ TV, 18 June 2012. Archived from the original on 9 October 2012. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
  63. ^ Press (19 June 2012). "Gilani summons National Energy conference today". Dunya News TV. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
  64. ^ Staff reports (31 March 2012). "Pakistan to maintain conventional balance: PM". The Nation. Archived from the original on 2 April 2012. Retrieved 19 July 2012. Our military capability is basically for deterrence purpose while peace remains the ultimate cherished goal for us. We believe that military weakness invites aggression from stronger nations
  65. ^ Michael F. Martin, Analyst in Asian Trade and Finance; K. Alan Kronstadt, Specialist in South Asian Affairs (6 March 2009). "Pakistan's Capital Crisis: Implications for U.S. Policy" (google docs). Federation of American Scientists. CRS Report for Congress. p. 1. Archived from the original on 5 May 2014. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
  66. ^ Desk News (23 February 2010). "Shaukat Tareen resigns as finance minister". GEO TV. Archived from the original on 30 March 2010. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
  67. ^ Kamran Haider (18 March 2010). "Pakistan appoints economist Shaikh as finance chief". Reuters, Pakistan. Archived from the original on 21 June 2013. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
  68. ^ a b c Khaliq Shah. "PPPrivatization: BB to Gilani". Khaliq Shah, Viewpoint. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  69. ^ a b c d DEsk. "Rs 8,500 bn corruption mars Gilani tenure: Transparency". GEO NEWs, Pakistan. Archived from the original on 5 March 2013. Retrieved 27 April 2012.
  70. ^ a b Ian Murphy (20 January 2012). "Pakistan pursuing prudent economic policies: Gilani". Hindustan Times. Islamabad. Archived from the original on 22 February 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  71. ^ a b APP (20 January 2012). "Economy has picked up, claims Gilani". DAWN NEws, 20 January 2012. Archived from the original on 5 May 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  72. ^ Staff Reports (24 January 2012). "Wapda staff goes on strike". Dawn News, 24 January 2012. Retrieved 13 May 2012.
  73. ^ Our Correspondent (6 May 2012). "Wapda workers' protest enters 6th day". Dawn News 6 May 2012. Archived from the original on 14 May 2012. Retrieved 13 May 2012. {{cite news}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  74. ^ Press (13 May 2012). "WAPDA strikes ended". Jang News Group (Urdyu). Archived from the original on 13 May 2012. Retrieved 13 May 2012.
  75. ^ a b Iftikhar Firdous (15 December 2011). "Railways, Steel Mills taken off the chopping block". The Tribune Express, Iftikhar Firdous. Archived from the original on 14 March 2012. Retrieved 31 May 2012. In a major blow to the economic liberals in government, the federal cabinet decided against the privatisation of eight of the largest state-owned companies, including Pakistan Steel Mills
  76. ^ Increase generation capacity to tackle power shortages: PM Gilani Archived 1 June 2012 at the Wayback Machine, The News, 1 June 2012
  77. ^ Iqbal, Javed. "Stagflation and power outage". August 3, 2012. Lahore Times, 3 August 2012. Archived from the original on 7 August 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  78. ^ a b Niaz Murtaza (22 February 2011). "An economic dilemma". Dawn News, An economic dilemma. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  79. ^ a b c Syed Fazl-e-Haider, Special to Gulf News (20 January 2011). "Stagflation hits poor hard in Pakistan". Gulf News. Archived from the original on 13 May 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  80. ^ a b 23 February 2012 (23 February 2012). "Steps urged to boost bank deposits". Dawn Newspapers, February 2012. Archived from the original on 22 September 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  81. ^ "Gunman targets Pakistani PM (1:10)". Reuters. Archived from the original on 8 December 2008. Retrieved 3 July 2017.
  82. ^ "Prime minister of Pakistan escapes gunfire, officials say" Archived 3 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine, Associated Press (International Herald Tribune), 3 September 2008.
  83. ^ "Taliban claims responsibility for firing at PM motorcade in Pakistan". Archived from the original on 5 September 2008. Retrieved 4 September 2008.
  84. ^ Press Release. "Free media pillar of govt's policy: PM". Pakistan Press FOundation. Archived from the original on 8 December 2014. Retrieved 7 April 2013.
  85. ^ a b c Staff. "Pemra seeks public cooperation to ban Indian channels". Pakistan TRibune. Archived from the original on 28 May 2013. Retrieved 7 April 2013.
  86. ^ a b NDTV Correspondent (9 May 2011). "Pak PM Gilani's address in Parliament on Osama raid". NDTV 2011. Archived from the original on 16 May 2013. Retrieved 7 April 2013. {{cite news}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  87. ^ a b c Staff (12 December 2011). "Gilani pledges to look into BBC ban". The Express Tribune. Archived from the original on 8 January 2014. Retrieved 7 April 2013.
  88. ^ Staff (20 May 2011). "China, Pakistan hold reception to mark establishment of ties". Xinhuanet. Archived from the original on 25 May 2011. Retrieved 7 April 2013.
  89. ^ "Gilani, Jiabao inaugurate Pak-China Friendship Centre". The Express Tribune. 18 December 2010. Archived from the original on 11 July 2012. Retrieved 27 February 2013.
  90. ^ a b Web edition (11 May 2012). "UK visit helps enhancing cultural relations". The News International (London). Archived from the original on 14 May 2013. Retrieved 7 April 2013.
  91. ^ "Yousuf Raza Gillani gains strength from shift of power in Pakistan" Archived 4 June 2011 at the Wayback Machine, TimesOnline, 20 March 2009.
  92. ^ a b APP (8 April 2010). "NA passes 18th Amendment Bill, PM felicitate the Nation". Associate Press of Pakistan. Archived from the original on 18 March 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  93. ^ APP (5 February 2012). "Govt wants unanimous passage of 20th Amendment: Gilani". Dawn Newspapers, 2012. Archived from the original on 9 May 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  94. ^ Staff. "PM Gilani approves multi-pronged strategy for tribal areas". Pakistan Times. Archived from the original on 28 May 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  95. ^ a b c AAJ News (13 December 2007). "Armed Forces guardian of national integrity: General Tariq Majid". Aaj TV Headlines. Archived from the original on 14 May 2014. Retrieved 9 March 2013.
  96. ^ Front Desk (29 May 2010). "Nation's support behind Swat operation success: Gilani". GEO NEWS, 2010. Archived from the original on 5 August 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  97. ^ Dr Noor-ul-Haq; Dr. Asad Rahid Malik; Nargis Zehra. "The Operation Rah-e-Rast" (google docs). Inter-Services Public Relations. Directorate for the Inter-Services Public Relations. Archived from the original on 18 January 2016. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  98. ^ a b Hodge, Amanda (7 February 2012). "Pakistan PM Yousuf Raza Gilani in Qatar to shape Afghan future". The Australian. Archived from the original on 14 February 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  99. ^ Saeed Shah (31 July 2010). "Pakistan's prime minister condemns David Cameron's terror claims". The Guardian Saturday 31 July 2010 16.32 EDT. Archived from the original on 15 September 2013. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  100. ^ Wintour, Patrick (4 April 2011). "David Cameron visits Islamabad to patch up relations with Pakistan". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 30 September 2013. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  101. ^ Staff (5 April 2011). "David Cameron pledges 'fresh start' with Pakistan". BBC Pakistan. Archived from the original on 30 July 2011. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  102. ^ a b APP (10 May 2012). "UK pledges deeper, stronger relationship with Pakistan". Dawn News London. Archived from the original on 19 July 2012. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  103. ^ APP (8 May 2012). "Gilani arrives in UK to boost trade, strategic ties". DawnNews. Archived from the original on 18 July 2012. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  104. ^ a b c A.G Noorani (1 June 2012). "Gilani on Asian unity". Dawn. Archived from the original on 22 December 2015. Retrieved 15 December 2015.
  105. ^ Reporter (9 July 2011). "Germany ratifies investment treaty with Pakistan". Dawn News. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  106. ^ a b Malik, Zahid (4 May 2011). "Gilani in Paris for talks on security, trade". Pakistan Observer, Wednesday, 4 May 2011. Archived from the original on 27 September 2012. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  107. ^ Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to form high level commission Archived 9 August 2011 at the Wayback Machine. The News Tribe (16 April 2011). Retrieved 17 November 2011.
  108. ^ Conspirators plotting against government: Gilani Archived 11 July 2012 at archive.today Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  109. ^ With inputs from PTI and IANS (10 November 2011). "Manmohan calls Pakistani PM Gilani a 'man of peace', BJP says it's ridiculous". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 13 May 2013. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  110. ^ The press (14 November 2011). "Manmohan Singh calling Pak PM man of peace". India Today, 2011. Archived from the original on 29 March 2012. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  111. ^ Jitender Singh. "Manmohan criticized over calling Gilani man of peace". The News, 2011. Archived from the original on 13 November 2011. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  112. ^ Staff (28 April 2012). "Gilani still Pakistan's PM: US". Daily Times, Saturday, 28 April 2012. Retrieved 8 August 2012.
  113. ^ a b c Becky Anderson and Moni Basu (9 May 2012). "Prime minister says Pakistan, U.S. operating on a trust deficit". CNN, 9 May 2012. Archived from the original on 29 May 2012. Retrieved 8 August 2012.
  114. ^ "Gilani: Obama using drone strikes for political gains". Xinhua, 11 June 2012. 11 June 2012. Archived from the original on 12 June 2012. Retrieved 8 August 2012.
  115. ^ "Pakistan Will Not Allow Use of Its Soil for Terrorism, Says PM". Dawn. 2 May 2011. Archived from the original on 5 May 2011. Retrieved 2 May 2011.
  116. ^ "World Shares Blame for 'Failure' on bin Laden: Gilani". Agence France-Presse (via Dawn). Archived from the original on 7 May 2011. Retrieved 5 May 2011.
  117. ^ NATO attack allegedly kills 24 Pakistani troops Archived 5 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine, Yahoo! News
  118. ^ Shakeel Anjum. "Supply line permanently stopped: Malik". Archived from the original on 28 November 2011. Retrieved 28 November 2011.
  119. ^ "Pakistan blocks Afghanistan NATO supplies after check-post attack". Express Tribune. 26 November 2011. Archived from the original on 27 November 2011. Retrieved 26 November 2011.
  120. ^ "Pakistan to review relations with U.S., NATO, ISAF in wake of attack". CNN. 27 November 2011. Archived from the original on 28 November 2011. Retrieved 29 November 2011.
  121. ^ "Pakistan retaliation puts NATO in lurch". CBS News. Retrieved 27 November 2011.
  122. ^ AZHAR MASOOD (30 November 2011). "Pakistan will take over Shamsi Air Base from US on Dec. 11". ArabNews. Archived from the original on 1 December 2011. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  123. ^ Ties with Nato, US on crossroads: PM Gilani Archived 1 June 2012 at the Wayback Machine, The News, May 2012
  124. ^ a b "We do not trust each other". BBC Pakistan Department, 2011. 12 December 2011. Archived from the original on 9 August 2012. Retrieved 11 August 2012.
  125. ^ Budnik, Andrey. "Russia and Pakistan: new momentum". Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia. Russian Embassy, Islamabad. Archived from the original on 20 March 2014. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  126. ^ Desk News (6 March 2012). "Gilani greets Putin on success". Geo Television. Archived from the original on 12 May 2012. Retrieved 11 June 2012.
  127. ^ a b c APP (8 November 2011). "Pakistan, Russia to go for FTA, currency swap agreement". Tribune Express, 8 November 2011. Archived from the original on 22 February 2012. Retrieved 19 August 2012.
  128. ^ APP (6 March 2012). "PM Gilani greets Putin on success". The Nation. Archived from the original on 30 August 2012. Retrieved 29 August 2012.
  129. ^ Post-Osama killing, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari feared coup by army chief Archived 1 June 2013 at the Wayback Machine. The Economic Times (12 October 2011). Retrieved 17 January 2012.
  130. ^ a b Pak SC to decide on fate of Zardari, Gilani on Monday Archived 16 January 2012 at the Wayback Machine. The Hindu (15 January 2012). Retrieved 17 January 2012.
  131. ^ Only answerable to Pak Parliament: Gilani Archived 18 January 2012 at the Wayback Machine. The Hindu (15 January 2012). Retrieved 17 January 2012.
  132. ^ a b c d Our Correspondent (28 March 2012). "LHC seeks assistance from DAG in case against Gilani, family". Tribune Express (TEX), 28 March 2012. Archived from the original on 31 March 2012. Retrieved 27 April 2012. {{cite news}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  133. ^ "Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan". law.AhmerJamilKhan.org. Archived from the original on 23 June 2016. Retrieved 22 May 2016.
  134. ^ a b The matter is over after speaker's decision: Gilani Archived 22 June 2012 at the Wayback Machine, The News International |29 May 2012.
  135. ^ "Short order of the SC". Dawn. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  136. ^ "PLD 2012 SC 553" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 8 September 2013. Retrieved 18 July 2014.
  137. ^ "Appeal to be filed". Dawn. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  138. ^ "Defiant Pakistan's PM Refuses to Resign". VOA. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 1 May 2012. Retrieved 27 April 2012.
  139. ^ "Gillani won't file appeal". PakTribune. 27 May 2012. Archived from the original on 28 May 2013. Retrieved 3 June 2012.
  140. ^ "Gilani vows to go till the last limit in face-off with SC". First Post. 14 May 2012. Archived from the original on 7 May 2015. Retrieved 3 June 2012.
  141. ^ "Pakistan PM found guilty in contempt case". AlJazeera. 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 16 June 2012. Retrieved 3 June 2012.
  142. ^ Haider, Sajjad (24 May 2012). "No question of PM Gilani's disqualification, decides NA speaker". Dawn Sajjad Haider | 24 May 2012. Archived from the original on 20 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  143. ^ Syed Irfan Raza (25 May 2012). "Victory of democracy, says PM; Nisar calls it a ruling by PPP activist Speaker comes to the aid of Gilani". Electrinic Paper (DAWN), 25 May 2012. Archived from the original on 2 December 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012. I am of the view that thecharges against Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani do not give grounds for a disqualification under paragraph (g) or (h) of the Constitution's Article 63... Dr. Fehmida Mirza
  144. ^ Press (29 May 2012). "Speaker's ruling final, cannot be challenged, says PM". Dawn News. Archived from the original on 17 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  145. ^ "Gilani returns Turkish first lady's necklace". The Express Tribune. 26 June 2015. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
  146. ^ Leak video of Ali Haider Gillani, buying candidates for Senate Elections 2021 | Breaking News, 2 March 2021, retrieved 29 May 2023
  147. ^ "PTI to make strategy over leaked video of Gilani's son; victory in KP depicts people's confidence in PM: Shibli". Associated Press of Pakistan. 3 March 2021. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
  148. ^ a b DawnNews (28 May 2012). "PML-N, PTI file petitions in SC challenging NA speaker's ruling". DAWN News 28 May 2012. Archived from the original on 20 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  149. ^ a b DAWN (6 June 2012). "SC admits petitions against NA Speaker's ruling for hearing". DAWN.COM | 6 June 2012. Archived from the original on 20 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  150. ^ a b APP (15 June 2012). "Speaker took right decision on PM's qualification, Aitzaz tells SC". Dawn and Associate Press of Pakistan. Archived from the original on 18 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  151. ^ a b c d e Speaker ruling case: Aitzaz concludes arguments (17 June 2012). "Speaker ruling case: Aitzaz concludes arguments". Dawn News, 17 June 2012. Archived from the original on 18 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012. Chief Justice Iftikhar said the fate of the people was in the hands of a man who had been convicted by the Supreme Court.
  152. ^ PLD 2012 SC 660 Archived 24 September 2015 at the Wayback Machine (short order), PLD 2012 SC 774 Archived 26 February 2015 at the Wayback Machine (detailed judgment)
  153. ^ News Agencies (19 June 2012). "Gilani no more PM, rules SC". Dawn, 19 June 2012 (SCC). Archived from the original on 19 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012. The Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled Speaker National Assembly Fehmida Mirza's ruling as void and declared that Yousuf Raza Gilani stood disqualified since April 26
  154. ^ "Gilani stands disqualified, rules SC". Archived from the original on 19 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  155. ^ a b Election Commission of Pakistan, Geo Television Network (20 June 2012). "EC issues Gilani disqualification notice". The News International, ECP. Jang Media Group. Archived from the original on 24 June 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013. The text of the notification issued is followed as: "Consequent upon disqualification of Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani from being a Member of Parliament by the Honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan, vide Order dated 19th June, 2012 passed in Constitution Petition No. 40/2012 (Muhammad Azhar Siddique v. State of Pakistan) and other connected matters in terms of Article 63(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on and from the date and time of pronouncement of the judgment of the Supreme Court dated 26.04.2012, the Election Commission of Pakistan hereby issues Notification of disqualification of Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani as Member National Assembly of Pakistan with effect from 26.04.2012 and in consequence thereof the Notification No.F.2(4)/2008-Cord. dated the 1st March, 2008 to the extent of declaring him as returned candidate from National Assembly Constituency No. NA-151 Multan-IV stands rescinded with effect from 26.04.2012"
  156. ^ "SC allows Yousuf Raza Gillani to contest elections". The Express Tribune. 10 July 2018. Retrieved 16 January 2021.
  157. ^ "Yousaf Raza Gillani clinches Senate chairmanship as PML-N's Syedal Khan Nasir secures deputy role". DAWN. 9 April 2024.
  158. ^ Desk, BR Web (10 October 2024). "President Zardari to visit Turkmenistan today". Brecorder. Retrieved 10 October 2024. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  159. ^ Web Desk (10 October 2024). "President Zardari leaves for Turkmenistan today". ARY NEWS. Retrieved 10 October 2024.
  160. ^ MOFA (10 October 2024). mofa.gov.pk https://mofa.gov.pk/press-releases/curtain-raiser-visit-of-president-of-pakistan-to-turkmenistan-3. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  161. ^ "Zardari leaves for Dubai". www.thenews.com.pk. Retrieved 11 October 2024.
  162. ^ NNI (1 November 2024). "President arrives in Dubai". Brecorder. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
  163. ^ "President Asif Zardari returns from Dubai". Dunya News. 10 November 2024. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
  164. ^ "Joint Statement between the People's Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan_Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China". www.fmprc.gov.cn. Retrieved 8 February 2025.
  165. ^ "President Asif Ali Zardari Departs for Lisbon to Condole the Death of late Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV". mofa.gov.pk. Archived from the original on 9 February 2025. Retrieved 12 February 2025.
  166. ^ Raza, Baqir Sajjad Syed | Syed Irfan (11 February 2025). "Erdogan due in Pakistan this week". DAWN.COM. Retrieved 12 February 2025.
  167. ^ "President Zardari leaves for Dubai on two-day visit". Dunya News. 14 March 2025. Retrieved 16 March 2025.
  168. ^ "President leaves for UAE on private visit". www.thenews.com.pk. Retrieved 16 March 2025.
  169. ^ From the Newspaper, Khawar Ghumman (20 June 2012). "Gilani loses record of longest-serving Pakistan PM". Archived from the original on 4 January 2013. Retrieved 30 May 2013.
  170. ^ a b ST (2 April 2013). "Pakistan Peoples Party". Dawn Election Cell. Archived from the original on 24 May 2013. Retrieved 30 May 2013.
  171. ^ RP (29 April 2012). "Five more die on third day of "grand operation" in Lyari". Dawn News 2012. Archived from the original on 29 October 2012. Retrieved 30 May 2013.
  172. ^ "United States says Gilani remains PM". Dawn. 28 April 2012. Archived from the original on 12 May 2012. Retrieved 23 May 2012. There was a court decision, he was given a 30 seconds sentence, I believe, and he remains the prime minister of Pakistan.
  173. ^ "The World's Most Powerful People". Forbes. 11 November 2009. Archived from the original on 29 July 2017. Retrieved 12 November 2009.
  174. ^ Khan, Azam (25 April 2012). "Verdict out: SC convicts Gilani of contempt". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 10 November 2022.
  175. ^ Chalmers, John (26 April 2012). "Pakistan PM convicted of contempt, receives no jail time". Yahoo! News, 26 April 2012. Archived from the original on 29 April 2012. Retrieved 26 April 2012.
  176. ^ "Pakistan Supreme Court bans PM Gilani from office". 19 June 2012. Archived from the original on 21 June 2018. Retrieved 21 July 2018.
  177. ^ Pakistan Supreme Court disqualifies Yousuf Raza Gilani, says vacate Prime Minister's post Archived 22 June 2012 at the Wayback Machine. NDTV. Retrieved 19 June 2012.
  178. ^ "Gilani disqualified as PM: SC". The News International. 19 June 2012. Archived from the original on 20 June 2012. Retrieved 19 June 2012. The Supreme Court (SC) has disqualified Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani as the prime minister in its short order of the NA Speaker ruling case, Geo News reported.
  179. ^ Ghumman, Khawar (20 June 2012). "Gilani loses record of longest-serving Pakistan PM". Dawn. Islamabad. Archived from the original on 4 January 2013. Retrieved 7 August 2012. : Despite remaining in the eye of the storm because of allegations of corruption levelled against members of his family and cabinet colleagues, former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani will be known as a diehard party loyalist. The politician who preferred losing his job to going against the party decision, regardless of the fact that he had to disobey a Supreme Court order in the process, which eventually led to his disqualification as member of the National Assembly.
  180. ^ "Pakistan Cannot Afford another war". NDTV India. 6 February 2012. Archived from the original on 16 May 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  181. ^ "Pakistan's PM announces energy policy to tackle crisis". BBC News. 22 April 2010. Archived from the original on 11 April 2012. Retrieved 6 February 2012.
  182. ^ Sharif, Farhan (27 September 2010). "Stagflation' Stalks Pakistan Economy as Bank Meets on Rates". Bloomberg L.P. Archived from the original on 28 March 2014. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  183. ^ "Stagflation in Pakistan: Concepts Demystified". Pakistaniat. Archived from the original on 18 January 2016. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
  184. ^ Rodriguez, Alex (19 June 2012). "Pakistan high court ousts Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 6 August 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Yousaf Raza Gilani.
Political offices
Preceded by Speaker of the National Assembly
1993–1997 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Prime Minister of Pakistan
2008–2012 		Succeeded by
Preceded by Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan
2024–present 		Incumbent
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Yusuf_Raza_Gilani&oldid=1285031375"