PM Sharif’s convoy stopped to let Army chief pass

Shahzad Raza Published June 5, 2013

ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan witnessed a historic democratic transition, many in the county have started to believe that the days of military supremacy are over. But not on the roads, at least not yet.

As Nawaz Sharif, along with his family, left for the Presidency to take oath as prime minister for a record third time on Wednesday, he struck reality on the streets of Islamabad.

The question is: who is the real power wielder in Pakistan? The prime minister or the Army chief? Theoretically, the army chief is answerable to a grade-22 civil bureaucrat. Practically, he is mightier than any elected or non-elected individual in the country.

One such demonstration of this reality was witnessed Wednesday soon after Mian Nawaz Sharif’s election as Prime Minister of Pakistan.

After securing more than two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, the premier reached Punjab House to freshen up.

The prime minister was supposed to reach the Presidency before 4:00 pm to take oath from President Asif Ali Zardari.

At the oath-taking ceremony, services chiefs, political leaders, diplomats and senior civil and military officials had been invited.

PML-N sources and eyewitnesses said first to come out of Punjab House was the SUV carrying first lady Kulsoom Nawaz and her daughter Mariam Safdar. Just behind them were the vehicles of Hamza Shahbaz and Hassan Nawaz.

The convoy of the prime minister was standing at close distance from the cars of his family members. As soon as they reached the outer barrier of Punjab House adjacent to Margallah Road, an alter commando blew the whistle with full force ordering the driver to stop the vehicle.

Consequently, the prime minister’s convoy had to stop as well. The pause remained for two to three minutes.

The commando was there to make sure nothing should obstruct the route of the Army chief’s convoy, only allowing vehicles from Punjab House to pass after the entire convoy of the army chief drove away.

Whether it was a mere coincidence could not be ascertained. None of the PML-N leaders was ready to comment on the incident. But the prime minister might have shared his thoughts with his closest aides.

Follow Shahzad Raza on twitter @shahz79

299

Mubashir Akram

Jun 05, 2013 09:34pm

This is True,Army is Army...Still In Pakistan,Establishment do all the things,

Recommend 0

sarim hamza

Jun 05, 2013 09:38pm

what...........?

Recommend 0

Amer

Jun 05, 2013 09:40pm

it's high time someone ends these so-called routes of the army men. If they are so afraid what in God's name are they doing in the army! PM Sharif assert yourself before you find yourself on another plane to Jeddah!

Recommend 0

M. Siddique

Jun 05, 2013 09:46pm

Why do we have special convoys holding up the traffic anyway. As a matter of factly no one knows if the two parties knew what was going on. Once Kiyani finds out what happened he should make sure the people's elected representative knows it and that it won't be repeated again. End of the story.

Recommend 0

Naveed

Jun 05, 2013 09:49pm

Sounds more like poor coordination between the security than some concerted effort to disrespect the new P.M! No need to make a "mountain out of a mole hill".

Recommend 0

Ali

Jun 05, 2013 09:50pm

Can u people leave Pakistan in peace? Just rush to write anything you want!!

Recommend 0

Sidra

Jun 05, 2013 09:57pm

This is not the first time it happened in Islamabad, couple of years ago in 2010 a Commando pointed his gun towards a Federal minister's car and forced him to stop ad COAS covey was passing through Islamabad. His Highness should use helicopter , as he uses heli on daily basis to go to pindi golf club and stop disrupting civilian movement.

Recommend 0

Pakistan

Jun 05, 2013 10:00pm

It is high time for army to grow up....

Recommend 0

Khan

Jun 05, 2013 10:06pm

Yess, we all should be following the fools.

Recommend 0

Ali

Jun 05, 2013 10:26pm

Long live Pakistan Army

Recommend 0

Bilal

Jun 05, 2013 10:28pm

Nawaz Sharif was not the PM at the time of the incident and did not have the security detail of a the head of the Government whilst General Ashfaq Pervez Kiyani is the current Chief of Army Staff has a security detail much higher than a mere elected representative. Stop making a fuss out of the situation. Lately DAWN has started to add a lot of spices to the news. No more quality stuff.

Recommend 0

ailly

Jun 05, 2013 10:31pm

Shahzad, yet another time, you are making a storm in a cup of tea. i know this article will not be published. let me whistle out; what a common man of this nation thinks about such articles, columns or blogs or whatever you wish think on. this was hardly of any relevance .... at the time of passing COAS vehicle your so called Punjabi or Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz ltd chairman Nawaz Sharif was constitutionally not the prime minister of Pakistan .... after 4 pm he was scheduled to take oath as mentioned in your article.. why you are whistling the blow. come on my friend wake up and don't mention such things which are entirely irrelevant and of no consequence. we have much stern and important issue to address in such print media space on internet don't waste it just like you did on Ch Nisar yesterday. try and relay decent issues which needed to have nation's attention. hope you will enjoy PMLNL tenure as you seem to have a liking for their family biz. Ailly - UAE

Recommend 0

waseem

Jun 05, 2013 10:33pm

Technically its nothing more than a mere coincidence. However, in the hands of media God forbid anything beyond one's wildest imagination can come out. On short note, so called democracy of last 5-years have punished Pakistan & its people more than the combined rule of military. Its time politician part themselves from the corruption.

Recommend 0

john

Jun 05, 2013 10:33pm

NS may be shivering in his car hoping that it is not October 12, once again.

Recommend 0

Shah Nawaz

Jun 05, 2013 10:35pm

We hope and pray that neither Pak Army or Nawaz Sharif's family and friends behave like owing Pakistan and its people.

Recommend 0

Malik

Jun 05, 2013 10:37pm

Do turn non issues into issues. Both Institution are of Pakistan and deserve respect. Foolish to think of this as a planned incident. Focus on major issues Pakistan is facing today..

Recommend 0

Prafull

Jun 05, 2013 10:40pm

No matter whio is PM or president, pakistan army rules and that is the biggest problem to herself and neighbours, except China. Drone srike will stop if PM gets upper hand over military otherwise nothing will change.Military & ISI are above laws of land & no one can touch them as has been in the past. PM can be ousted by Military chief but not other way round if Chief is wrong.

Recommend 0

Aithesham

Jun 05, 2013 10:43pm

calm down! he had yet to take the Oath, so technically he wasn't a PM then.

Recommend 0

Zeeshan Asghar

Jun 05, 2013 10:45pm

Its only a sensational immature reporting nothing else. please grow up writer

Recommend 0

ali

Jun 05, 2013 10:48pm

The commando is trained to respect his chief, he has not been trained to respect the prime minister, as such he stopped the PM`s convoy, no big deal,

Recommend 0

Dr Junaid

Jun 05, 2013 10:55pm

Army chief deserves a lot of respect because they are protecting the nation. As far as, the writer said, PM, nawaz was not PM at that time, he was going to take oath. 2nd, atleast thanks to nation that nation has some fear from any organization and disciplined organization. This was the army chief who let the govt to proceed for his term and allowed next to come. You can hardly imagine that every person was praying that army should take over because of lawlessness and unemployment. At least people of Karachi demanding that. So dont try to malign the situations and dont create panic by such articles, who is powerful. Rmemeber this is the army who fought for your survival.Can you tell me name of one politicians family member who fought in wars. No. They just always run away.

Recommend 0

Jahanzaib Khanzada

Jun 05, 2013 10:57pm

This is being blown out of proportion. If the Army Chief was on the move already he should be given priority. If PMs vehicle wasn't moving (as was the case) when it reached the barrier, it should stop. Big deal. I feel PM Nawaz and Army will get together just fine. There's a lot at stake in Pakistan and an uncountable issues that need to be fixed which is beyond the egos of either PM or Army Chief. I believe both realize this too.

Recommend 0

Jun 05, 2013 11:03pm

SO WHATS THE BIG DEAL IN IT?

Recommend 0

SanCha

Jun 05, 2013 11:08pm

Symbolically it is very clear that - "Military dominates Democracy" in Pakistan. Democratically elected Govt. should be most powerful.

Recommend 0

amjad awan

Jun 05, 2013 11:21pm

Yellow journalism .

Recommend 0

quest

Jun 05, 2013 11:22pm

Dear Dawn, DON'T try to put fuel on fire.

Recommend 0

Rizwan Hamid

Jun 05, 2013 11:24pm

It is high time for Nawaz Sharif to set the matter straight and tell the Army Chief that from now on we will do things by the book and according to rules. He is answerable to the Defense Secretary as it always was even during the days of Ayub Khan. Even he as a military dictator,he respected the rules and the then C in C Army, Gen Musa was subordinate to Nazir Ahmed The Defense Secretary. Until this is done, we will have 2 people trying to run the government.

Recommend 0

Jibran

Jun 05, 2013 11:26pm

well i simply dont agree with the 2nd para of this news,If the writer has seen "Order Of Precedence" than Army Chief is not answerable to a 22 grade Secretary or is junior to him, the first one to be obeyed or to whome he should report is the Defence Minister. For the authenticity of the rest of the news, God knows better.It is not as simple as it is said , such things are coordinated at a very high level. wat we see often is not right.

Recommend 0

Shoaib Ahsan Jamal

Jun 05, 2013 11:31pm

Nothing is wrong in this situation, as COAS convoy was on the way and route was already cleared for him so it was necessary to let him pass first. Otherwise his convoy has to be stopped in the middle of the road. While PM's convoy was with in secure premises and was not moving on road, it was halted for few minutes to clear the route so that later he can move without hindrance. SOPs are defined for these VIP movements. i don't know such things for sure but it is logical if u think about it.

Recommend 0

Agha Ata

Jun 05, 2013 11:34pm

Shahzad Raza. Prime Minister's real power begins after he takes oath, NOT BEFORE. What happened on the street of Islamabad happened before he took oath.

Recommend 0

Feel Better

Jun 05, 2013 11:42pm

I think it is time for mature reporting. Creating senstaions in news reporting should be avoided. How can a security person on duty ouside on raod know who is coming out of "Punjab House" that also in number of cars.?. It was the duty of both security details to co-ordinate movements of the VIPs... that is simple. Please do not hype up a mere coincidence into defining who holds the power.

Recommend 0

abdur rehman

Jun 05, 2013 11:51pm

stop being bias ... Army chief was already passing and Nawaz sharifs convoy was just leaving the punjab house... u can not stop someone who is already passing, not to pass... and army chief has to reach presidency before Nawaz sharif.. because he had to receive him with other officials and bureaucrats. I am wondering when our media will get mature and act responsibly. Stop creating discrimination. Logic and rational is somewhere lost, i think.

Recommend 0

Mazhar Hussain

Jun 05, 2013 11:53pm

Not really something to find space in the paper like this. We need to curtail the tendency of causing stirs on such trivial issues. In terms of protocol, services chiefs and all other guests were supposed to be there before arrival of PM. And also there could have been lack of coordination in fine tuning the movement of VVIPs. Hence, this was a good thing that Army Chief was able to arrive at venue earlier than the chief guest. Had it happened in reverse manner, observers could have construed it more negatively. I wish the space was dedicated to some more constructive piece of writing.

Recommend 0

raja hindustani

Jun 05, 2013 11:52pm

In democracy, Prime minister is supreme leader who is elected by the public to run the country should be above than all govt official whether it is high rank bureaucrats or military generals.

Recommend 0

Ghani

Jun 05, 2013 11:53pm

Does Dawn had become such lowly newspaper ??

Recommend 0

Raj

Jun 05, 2013 11:58pm

Pak army will never leave the power. Power brings money converted from USA aids, their children to move to uSA and protection after retirement, like Musharaf.

Recommend 0

gahlib

Jun 05, 2013 11:59pm

Ha ha Ha

Recommend 0

ali wadood

Jun 06, 2013 12:03am

good wake up call for the new PM.

Recommend 0

awbhatti@comsats.net.pk

Jun 06, 2013 12:02am

Simple, the Army Chief had to reach and be seated before the PM, some one in protocol may have erred on this or either of the two was not on their assigned time.

Recommend 0

Ahmed Abdullah

Jun 06, 2013 12:03am

Could have been a coincidence or lack of coordination. Call on by Army Chief to PM soon after oath taking conveys a different message. By supporting democratic process in last five years, Army has already shown its resolve in strengthening the political system of the country. With the changing ground realities we need to build a better perspective and look for promoting better civil-military relations instead of reporting on such trivial issues sensationally.

Recommend 0

TKhan

Jun 06, 2013 12:23am

No Big deal; early bird gets the worm! May by Army Chief didn't want to miss his T time.

Recommend 0

Muzaffar Baloch

Jun 06, 2013 12:24am

Five year civilian rule and successful 'democratic transition of power has not shifted center of real power. Another example of military's power was manifest from the seating arrangement in Nawaz Sharif's oath taking ceremony: chiefs of Army, Air Force , Navy and chairman JCSC were the only bureaucrats seated in front row **at par** with ex-PMs, heads of political parties, some foreign dignitaries, sitting behind them other political leaders .. Isn't it telling us about nature of relation between civil-military relations in coming times?

Recommend 0

Waleed

Jun 06, 2013 12:28am

Protocol or convoys by no mean show who is more powerful. It does however show how weak this democracy is.

Recommend 0

yasir

Jun 06, 2013 12:41am

the news in start tells the story, army chief stopped a common man not the primeminister of Pakistan. when he was stopped he was not the primeminister !

Recommend 0

Kaleem

Jun 06, 2013 12:50am

This is NOT respectful and fair for the Prime Minister of Pakistan.He should take notice of this action.

Recommend 0

Atiq Khan

Jun 06, 2013 12:57am

on street, just follow Traffic signal...simple

Recommend 0

Adnan Siddiqui

Jun 06, 2013 01:04am

Unfortunately, its negative Journalism from Shahzad Raza here ... Technically it was Army Chief right as Sharif was not PM yet - he was going to take oath as PM at that point of time, which means his designation then was ordinary member parliament and head of a political party.

Recommend 0

Ebrhm shakir

Jun 06, 2013 01:04am

This is the game of power and also fact that without accepting army superiority the Pakistani politics will not run just one weak. the army are still the main decision maker of the Pakistani politics. and politician are already realize this, then how can we think that Army chief will stop to let prime Minister go. By stopping PM's Convoy, Army chief give strongest signal of his superiority to New PM, on the first day of the prime ministry, before PM starting his official work regarding to burning issues of the country, he stop PM's convoy and convey strongest message that i can stop you anywhere and any time like this..

Recommend 0

Ghazala Naim

Jun 06, 2013 01:07am

Trying to make a non story as a story. Shame on you Raza to stoop so low starting a rumour mill for nothing. Remember that commando has his orders and he is just obeying those. Could be lack of communication among the organizers. Please dont make a mountain of a mole hill. Let us all respect each other and support fresh start in our history. Ghazala

Recommend 0

AcclaimedMan

Jun 06, 2013 01:11am

In Pakistan things are the other way than the rest of the world. The PM should be the first and Army Chief be second (may be), but in Pakistan it is the other way !!!

Recommend 0

ASEAN

Jun 06, 2013 01:12am

Pakistanis are suffering from a flu virus called Conspiracy theory. You would even like to turn the shadows in order to look for hiding genie! Please, brothers, can we be a little more positive in life to focus on the bigger issues at hand instead of focussing on nitpicking and reactionary belly aching!

Recommend 0

yaqoot

Jun 06, 2013 01:29am

What is the point in releasing this article? if Pakistans own media created these tensions between branches of the government then why do we criticise others for highlighting the differences between us? useless article trying to create divisions where there are none, the army is serious about staying away from grabbing power this time and for the future, lets move forward with confidence in the new Prime-minister and let him not look over his shoulders instead he should be hitting the ground running trying to solve: 1. Loadshedding 2. The Iran India gas pipeline implementation agenda 3. Terrorism and extremism which have become monsters for the existence of our country. Long live Pakistan and hope to see a stronger Pakistan in these 5 years!

Recommend 0

Syed Tanwir Hasan

Jun 06, 2013 01:35am

What nonsense this reporter has reported! I think it is just to create sensation though it was a just an isolated and normal thing.

Recommend 0

zobia khan

Jun 06, 2013 01:48am

He is not Prime Minister until the oath is administered. Until then he just a common citizen. Also, the COAS is suppose to be present when the oath is given, so I think he was trying to get there before Nawaz, otherwise it would be insulting.

Recommend 0

ordinary_citizen

Jun 06, 2013 01:50am

I don't think we should attribute hidden meaning to such insignificant incidents. Pakistan is in serious trouble while we are indulging is pampering our petty egos.

Recommend 0

Maaz Ahmed Minhas

Jun 06, 2013 01:53am

I just see desperation to create a story out of a good gesture.

Recommend 0

ROHIT PANDEY

Jun 06, 2013 01:57am

Old habits die hard,one would say?

Recommend 0

Umer Sadiq

Jun 06, 2013 01:58am

Wow, you have nothing better to report on?

Recommend 0

Sarwat Hasan

Jun 06, 2013 02:00am

Well a PM of Mr. Shareef's stature deserves a that kind of treatment. In reality the Army chief's convoy should have stopped.

Recommend 0

Iqbal

Jun 06, 2013 02:12am

"Whether it was a mere coincidence could not be ascertained.".... Dear Mr. Writer, if you are not sure yourself, why did you build an article with a serious conclusion? Don't waste your and our time.

Recommend 0

Mustafa

Jun 06, 2013 02:15am

This article exposes the intelligence of atleast one Dawn News Reporter Shahzad Raza. What if there was ambulance or a fire truck or even a police car attending to an emergency. Should all of them stop to pay respect to Prime Minister? Where did the writer learn that people with less power should yield to people with more power when using the road?

Recommend 0

Michael Warner

Jun 06, 2013 02:15am

It is a small thing and the PM has got no time to think about these petty issues and above all this rubbish printed by the media. Protocol demands that the PM passes first but in some countries one can not even figure that who is in the car since it is in the mix of traffic flow. But due to security reasons, exclusive routes are drawn for the dignitries in the pure land. Learn from Shabaz Sharif, who does not mind taking a ride in a bus to his office with just simple public and acts as a passanger, buys a ticket.

Recommend 0

Ramesh Manghirmalani

Jun 06, 2013 02:17am

Is this a joke ???? Apart from Pakistan , army is a history

Recommend 0

Qamar

Jun 06, 2013 02:23am

This is not a real news. It is simply the result of a unusual coincidence and the guards posted on the route were not trained how to handle this type of situation. Trying to deduce too much out of insignificant events is our favorite hobby.

Recommend 0

iqbal

Jun 06, 2013 02:29am

Shame on Army Chief, he needs to learn what a leadership respect is. May be his subordinates will respect him more if he was to show respect to his boss. This is one problem in Pakistan where people in power do not respect others.

Recommend 0

Amjad Wyne

Jun 06, 2013 02:47am

I believe that the whole premise of this article is non-sense. Nawaz Sharif was not the prime minister before he took the oath of office. And, this is how it would work in any democracy.

Recommend 0

hairynavel

Jun 06, 2013 02:54am

Looks like Army is yet again wanting to face off with the new PM....looks like history repeats!!!

Recommend 0

darr

Jun 06, 2013 03:01am

Commando after commando, Life continues.Commandos have special liking for Nawaz sharif. One day we will grow out of childish behavior.

Recommend 0

Zak

Jun 06, 2013 03:00am

Leave the COAS alone he has left the govt alone. Hope Nawaz does not bring corruption to the army by meddling in selection etc

Recommend 0

Syed

Jun 06, 2013 03:10am

You are trying to fan fires for no reason. Do you think there are less than enough fires burning in Pakistan. You yourself have written "Whether it was a mere coincidence could not be ascertained. " but you are out there busy promoting evil. This is not good Shahzad Raza.

Recommend 0

darr

Jun 06, 2013 03:10am

@Shoaib Ahsan Jamal: Agree, But the Chief of army staff is just like another high grade officer. Why stop traffic ? Photo represents a caravan of KING.

Recommend 0

sfomann

Jun 06, 2013 03:14am

"The question is: who is the real power wielder in Pakistan?" Its the Americans !

Recommend 0

Asif

Jun 06, 2013 03:15am

I am a PTI supporter, but i have to say that this article is suggesting what exactly? Honestly the quality of reporting at dawn is starting to become less journalistic and more commercial... Sigh.

Recommend 0

muhammad Khan

Jun 06, 2013 03:21am

He was going to take oath ,he had not taken the oath so what is all the fuss about.

Recommend 0

Rizwan Hamid

Jun 06, 2013 03:31am

@Jibran: Dear Jibran, the order of precedence has been changed by the military dictators during their reign of power. This is their way of promoting themselves without cause. In every country the Army chief is subordinate to the Defense Secretary ( who is a grade 22 officer) You are wrong, he is not answerable to the Defense Minister. The gazette of Pakistan clearly states that Army Chief will at all times inform and get permission from the Defense Secretary in all instances other than routine army matters. Even in Pakistan, the defense Minister sets policy, but the real power rests with the defense secretary. Nothing can be done without his signature which means his approval.

Recommend 0

Shahpur

Jun 06, 2013 03:33am

@Bilal: Very true. Shame on DAWN.

Recommend 0

Khalid Qureshi

Jun 06, 2013 03:43am

**The protocol demands the Army Chief should be there to welcome the Chief Executive & not the other way round.That should have been the reason to stop the PM,s convoy & let the others pass.I hate to say this but most of our media persons or the writers who try to come out with silly stories like this are not doing any good to the nation.Please be mature & think before you write something like this.**

Recommend 0

Haroon Choudhry

Jun 06, 2013 03:49am

@raja hindustani: First a Hindustani is not welcome. Second he should understand that Prime Minister in waiting is not Prime Minster while Army Chief is serving.

Recommend 0

Rizwan Hamid

Jun 06, 2013 03:53am

Just remember the TV interview of Gen. Hamid Gul. In it, he said an army can defeat another army, it can never defeat it's own people. If the collective will of a 180 million people was there, it could stamp out military adventurism in Pakistan over night. They simply don't want to do it. Yes we have had bad politicians like Mr. 10 % and company, but we are coming out of it. Only democracy and transparent rule of law will move the country forward. In that, there is no room for army generals to dictate policy and not be answerable to elected officials. They need to be shown the door and the way back to the barracks. We either do it, or we shall forever be a backward and bankrupt country like Burma .( Even they have realized this and are sending the generals home after 40 years)

Recommend 0

Amused

Jun 06, 2013 04:00am

We know who the boss is. Election?

Recommend 0

Vikas Shukla

Jun 06, 2013 04:01am

I had thought that dawn had kept its reputation when most of the Indian news website had gone commercial and lost values. I often visit dawn because of the quality. But news like this will degrade its value as a reputed online news source. Dont get tempted to get cheap publicity. Keep quality up.

Recommend 0

Faisal

Jun 06, 2013 04:06am

@Dr Junaid: Its Allah protecting the nation not the army chief.

Recommend 0

omar

Jun 06, 2013 04:10am

That is AWESOME!. His foreign policy will have him removed soon anyway.

Recommend 0

Asif

Jun 06, 2013 04:22am

Army chief was simply reminding him, who is the real boss? Everyone calm down and see the reality.

Recommend 0

gangadin

Jun 06, 2013 04:23am

He had not taken the oath yet.

Recommend 0

Pasha

Jun 06, 2013 04:28am

Grow Up Shehzad Reza from this Chaskay dar reporting. But you sure do want the govt to confront with Army especially who will pass first on the road. Crazy Cheap Reporting.

Recommend 0

Haider

Jun 06, 2013 04:52am

Attention grabbing stunt pulled by Dawn here and not the Army Chief it seems :) This is more like your typical Times Of India Story - high on "massala" low on content and meaning :)

Recommend 0

ahmad

Jun 06, 2013 04:58am

This is an eye opener for the PM. He should send a clear massage to the army and police that there is a newly elected Prime Minister in Pakistan. What an arrogance.

Recommend 0

ASphyx

Jun 06, 2013 05:40am

wow surprised me this make the newspaper on who was allowed to go first and not a liner but a whole page. Quality of news reporting in Pakistan

Recommend 0

Irfan

Jun 06, 2013 05:47am

Shame on Kiyani and all those stooges supporting his plot to humiliate the elected PM. And shame on all those army apologists trying to justify this action by a chap subordinate to the defense secretary. Really a slap on the face of Pakistan.

Recommend 0

khan

Jun 06, 2013 06:10am

That's not right reporting.I was there.NS convoy had to stop because traffic light was red,and tulla over there blew the whistle,when NS convoy did not slow down.That tulla was Kyani unfortunately.He later apologized,because it was to early to blow the whistle,it is still not two years.But he will not be there after 2 years,but he will do it sometime later,when you try to cross red light again.Be careful.Follow the traffic rules.

Recommend 0

jami

Jun 06, 2013 06:13am

How cheap observation

Recommend 0

Tigiripalli

Jun 06, 2013 06:18am

Such is the quality of the society and Government that Pakistanis have.

Recommend 0

Ahmad

Jun 06, 2013 06:16am

The real power is still the Army,not the PM yet.

Recommend 0

ali

Jun 06, 2013 06:20am

Well he was the PM elect...not sworn in...so a civilian....

Recommend 0

Syed Husain

Jun 06, 2013 06:35am

In this report, Dawn has made a mountain out of a mole hill. I guess it must be a slow news day.

Recommend 0

NASAH (USA)

Jun 06, 2013 06:43am

The protocol might have required that the prime minister elect motorcade should be led by an army/police pilot vehicle to the presidency -- not his family -- but Nawaz Sharif may not deserve that protocol because he was not YET country's Prime Minister until sworn by the president as such.

Recommend 0

malick

Jun 06, 2013 06:56am

@abdur rehman: Love u man . Our media will never get mature. This not media but chamchas and karrahi.

Recommend 0

Mohammed A.Sukhera

Jun 06, 2013 07:03am

I would not put much importance to this incident. Mr. sharif was not sworn as PM yet. So what is the big deal?

Recommend 0

Ashok R. Prabhu

Jun 06, 2013 07:05am

The commandos are used to obey the orders only of their superior officers,and unless and until clear instructions are given to the Commandos as to who gets the Right Of Way,they will continue to treat their superior Officers as the Final Authority.

Recommend 0

Ashok R. Prabhu

Jun 06, 2013 07:07am

@Mazhar Hussain: If the Army Superior Officer had to reach in time before the PM,he ought to have arrived at the venue at least one hour before the arrival of the VIP.

Recommend 0

sadaat

Jun 06, 2013 07:24am

kia bachon wali baat ki hai!!!! and amazed at some guys on there comments...... firstly if there was a delay in 2 min this means the chief was enroute for presidency,,, and unlike the PM nawaz sharif,, who was inside the punjab house defended boundaries this means he was secure,,,, where as the chief was in the open...... secondly the chief needs to be there first as guest of honor comes in the last so that chief can welcome him....... think about it,,,, chief coming in the last .... people would have said,,,, look at the chief he is not giving respect to his PM....... my observation is that we are being very sensetive to these small issues,,,, the reall issue is economy, poverty ellevation. i dont give a damn to these small issue ... and my advise to all think about Pakistans economy and future not these small saas bahu issues,,, (STAR PLUS ) issues.

Recommend 0

Nizam

Jun 06, 2013 07:41am

Dawn used to be a decent newspaper with news worthy of our time. Lately it has become more of an evening tabloid. I am disappointed with the content of Dawn!

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 07:41am

its not even a news to report, such things happens in other countries without such kind of notice, media should concentrate on news which worth mentioning

Recommend 0

TamzaK

Jun 06, 2013 07:45am

@raja hindustani: PM is leader, NOT 'supreme leader'. That spot is reserved for a MUCH higher authority

Recommend 0

BIMAL CHANDRA JHA

Jun 06, 2013 07:50am

Sir, Nothing unusual. It will take time to change the mindset of Pakistani army towards democratic values. They have witnessed a mightier army chief that than weak political executive. The incident of military supremacy on the street of Islamabad was only an example. We can only wish that a democratically elected Prime Minister should last a full term. Yours faithfully; BIMAL CHANDRA JHA Samanpura Road, Patna, India.

Recommend 0

Mohammad Farooq

Jun 06, 2013 07:54am

Shahzad, I question the motive behind this news.

Recommend 0

Umair

Jun 06, 2013 07:56am

You have seriously got to be kidding me right? "Whether it was a mere coincidence could not be ascertained." What are you trying to say? that it was intentional? cause it sure sounds like that. The PM's convoy didn't even leave the Punjab house yet (like your article says) and the COAS's convoy was moving so its only a matter of common sense who would have been stopped. Now you won't be stopping a convoy in the middle of the road would you? Disappointed....You guys really do have an art to spin things, congratulations.

Recommend 0

ayesha

Jun 06, 2013 07:57am

Now this is what Pakistani media is skillful at. making a fuss out of nothing.

Recommend 0

JAYRAMAN

Jun 06, 2013 08:01am

Army wants to show the P.M. who is the real boss and not to get ideas

Recommend 0

Emm

Jun 06, 2013 08:04am

Not very becoming of Dawn to publish such "reports".

Recommend 0

Kamal

Jun 06, 2013 08:08am

This appears to be a serious incidence. ISPR should come out to clarify it.No doubt prime Minister has more authority than Army Chief on all sphere.

Recommend 0

Danish

Jun 06, 2013 08:11am

That Pak Army Comando was only doing his duty and thats what he did. This report compliments our Army, even though this is not really a "news"

Recommend 0

Observer

Jun 06, 2013 08:21am

Please stop with this mundane gossip and start holding our politicians accountable for what they say and what they do.

Recommend 0

havi

Jun 06, 2013 08:25am

It's a scene to be noted regardless, with a comment to be made that democracy is in nascent state. Patience has to be prevailed. Chief of army should have to show his greatness in future to wash out the traces of dishonor regardless. Prime Minister is the boss and army chief is reporting him and parliamentarians are opinion reps of entire nation.

Recommend 0

Anon

Jun 06, 2013 08:25am

To Dawn: "Bari nazuk surat e haal hai"

Recommend 0

sadiqams

Jun 06, 2013 08:27am

Its simple you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. The Army Chief had right of way as he was on the main carriageway, The PM's entourage has to give way to the right. That are the traffic rules in place in countries where cars drive on the left side of the road,

Recommend 0

zia khan

Jun 06, 2013 08:30am

@raja hindustani: The convoy of the prime minister was not in motion and cars ahead were carrying family members. The convoy of the army chief was already in motion and they were supposed to keep going for security reasons. There was nothing sinister in it. Dawn has started creating news instead of reporting.

Recommend 0

Siddique Malik

Jun 06, 2013 08:37am

I think it's a serious matter. On a situation like this, when many convoys have to converge at one place -- in the case the President House -- those responsible for the logistics should plan these movements better. All convoys should have been asked to reach the President House one after the other, with the new PM's convoy being the last. In the absence of this coordination, the new PM's convoy ended up waiting for the army chief's to pass. It does not give a good impression. The man whom the people have just elected as their leader should not have been inconvenienced by those who are his subordinates. It's proper protocol. Perhaps, it was the result of bad planning; perhaps, it was the result of army's belief that it owns Pakistan and needs no logistical planning to ensure that it does not encroach upon the turf of its selected superiors. My gut feeling is that latter is the case. Siddique Malik, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.

Recommend 0

fahad

Jun 06, 2013 08:41am

@Rizwan Hamid : use mind and dnt blindly believe on what it is written thr in news paper

Recommend 0

Whatever

Jun 06, 2013 08:44am

Written in poor spirit.

Recommend 0

K Masood

Jun 06, 2013 09:23am

The question is, "Should the roads be blocked at all for any VIP"??????????????? We spend minutes / hours stuck on roads, because a VIP is passing or will pass. So just a matter of time before this happened.

Recommend 0

Hotel And Halls Dot Com

Jun 06, 2013 09:28am

I think it is not a big issue and we should not highlight such things.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 09:29am

Oh please, what on earth is this. Seriously a whole reality is created out of a story that one convoy had to stop for the other. Average person has to stop for both so who cares.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 09:31am

@raja hindustani: In democracy, there is no 'supreme leader'. Only the people are supreme.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 09:31am

Or maybe that the chief's convoy was on main road already on its way and could not stop in the middle of the road and that the PM was just getting out and could easily stop.

Recommend 0

Omair

Jun 06, 2013 09:38am

Shame on Dawn news for reporting such things. Standards really have gone down.

Recommend 0

a.k.lal

Jun 06, 2013 09:43am

this has nothing to do with army chief or prime minister.the head of police and traffic should have coordinated movements of v v i p vehicles. this is all the more necessary from security point of view..training for traffic management is needed

Recommend 0

Fahad Suleman

Jun 06, 2013 09:44am

Grow Up DAWN!!!

Recommend 0

Rakib

Jun 06, 2013 09:49am

NS as PM-elect was on his way to Presidency to take Oath therefore technically he was not yet PM-Pak. If this incident had occured while on his way back, after he took the Oath, it would have been very embarrassing.

Recommend 0

Ali

Jun 06, 2013 09:49am

Most pathetic. This can only happen in my country of origin. When will the army learn to respect the rule of law.

Recommend 0

Shikari

Jun 06, 2013 09:55am

deliberate first blow to show who runs P-Town

Recommend 0

Ejaz Ali

Jun 06, 2013 09:56am

@Ghani: Indeed it is the newspaper now devoid of intellect and vision. Some times it seems to be obsessed with spreading anarchy and disappointment at some ones' behest.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 10:02am

@raja hindustani: this is fake paki democracy

Recommend 0

irfan chaudhry

Jun 06, 2013 10:04am

It is a true reflection of the state of the country when an insignificant event like this makes the headlines. If history is any indication than Sharif will amass wealth much like he did before from the people of Pakistan and will be ousted by another Military Coup. We continue to recycle the same old garbage and hope for things to change. It is obvious that most of us are incapable of thinking logically and end result reflects just that.

Recommend 0

Hamid Abbasi

Jun 06, 2013 10:07am

Why do you always try to find"some black in the pulses",may be for the security of a P.M.with 2/3rd majority the army chief wanted to be at forefront.After all they ought to be the first at the frontiers guarding the country.Why so FUSS?

Recommend 0

NK Ali

Jun 06, 2013 10:07am

Cryptic and esoteric. This insult should not have occurred. These are the incidences that leave a bad taste for the day. Salams

Recommend 0

Junaid

Jun 06, 2013 10:17am

Army Chief should be more powerful than PM, especially in Pakistan

Recommend 0

sah2009

Jun 06, 2013 10:18am

For a politician it is immaterial who crossed first a public road, for a government employee like army personnel it is question of life and death. Nawaz Sharif acted like a shrewd politician at those moments. I salute PM.

Recommend 0

Rafique Ahmed Khoso

Jun 06, 2013 10:17am

God grant me the serenity, To accept the things I cannot change; The courage to change the things I can; And the wisdom to know the difference.

Recommend 0

Junaid

Jun 06, 2013 10:18am

Army Chief should be more powerful than PM , especially in Pakistan.

Recommend 0

Hyatt

Jun 06, 2013 10:19am

Paid newspost by PMLn honchos, shame on you Dawn!

Recommend 0

farid

Jun 06, 2013 10:22am

I am so glad that I have left this country, created for few hundred families. Good luck sharifs, vaderas, sardars, Khans etc.

Recommend 0

Amer

Jun 06, 2013 10:23am

I am shocked that so few people object to halting all traffic for these so-called VIPs. It's against our fundamental rights but we have come to accept these. Wake up people! know your rights

Recommend 0

Ganja Pindi

Jun 06, 2013 10:25am

Chief should stop and wait for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to be first as because forces are for providing support and guarding the road. Cheif should stay back and be in protocol with PM..

Recommend 0

Adnan

Jun 06, 2013 10:25am

Shame on you Dawn,,,,,,,,,,,,cheap publicity....

Recommend 0

amk

Jun 06, 2013 10:33am

There shouldnt be any protocols at all .. not for anyone

Recommend 0

Abdul Munim

Jun 06, 2013 10:36am

A lot of explanation given after the oath taking ceremony by Kayani Sb to PM afterwards as it was seen first time on the footages that only CNC speaking anf PM listening!

Recommend 0

Zafar

Jun 06, 2013 10:39am

@ailly: Totally biased comments by you Mr. Baised. Your comments smell linguistic differences which is not today's need.

Recommend 0

Faraz

Jun 06, 2013 10:40am

@Shoaib Ahsan Jamal: PM is elected leader . where as COAS is salried employ .... COAS should respect public opinion

Recommend 0

Tahir

Jun 06, 2013 10:44am

Such an irresponsible piece of article! I am astonished DAWN Editor actually thought it was worth reporting. Seeking cheap sensation! I once used to believe DAWN is the most trustworthy source of information in Pakistan and maintains a certain editorial standard. With article like this, DAWN is not only showing a clear signs of degredation of journalism but doing a dis-service to the nation. As for the auther, please do not make assumtions on issues relating to national unity and integrity; find something worth reporting. Be a responsible journalist.

Recommend 0

Abbas

Jun 06, 2013 10:42am

@Ghani: I'd not use such a harsh language. But I agree that the reporter here is overblown a minor incident. His tendency to publish exaggerated sensational reports is as surprising as DAWN's allowing it to be published.

Recommend 0

bergazeda@gmail.com

Jun 06, 2013 11:05am

Prime Minister' is prime minister only when he takes oath of his office and not before that. Isn't it right?

Recommend 0

asad_khattak53@yahoo.com

Jun 06, 2013 11:08am

@john: hahaha very right

Recommend 0

asad_khattak53@yahoo.com

Jun 06, 2013 11:09am

hahah very right

Recommend 0

feroz boor boor

Jun 06, 2013 11:11am

@abdur rehman: very well said!

Recommend 0

feroz boor boor

Jun 06, 2013 11:12am

@Ali: Long Live pakistan!

Recommend 0

asad_khattak53@yahoo.com

Jun 06, 2013 11:12am

right

Recommend 0

Ghulam Abbas

Jun 06, 2013 11:16am

It is nice to find that the right message is received by the elected leader at the very start of his term. So no one, specially the new PM should dream of a superiority of civilians and the constitution. Else, be ready for ......

Recommend 0

Faran Ali

Jun 06, 2013 11:21am

I think it was the a mere coincidence and that it is the duty of the Islamabad police to ensure smooth movement of the convoys. if one convoy is already passing by then the second one whoever it is should be made to wait before the route is clear again.

Recommend 0

Mumtaz Piracha

Jun 06, 2013 11:28am

It may be called making 'a mountain out of a molehill.' Such news and articles must not be published by well reputed newspapers.

Recommend 0

Azeem Anwer

Jun 06, 2013 11:34am

Please do not make controversies out of minor and petty issues. Please please.

Recommend 0

Ahsan

Jun 06, 2013 11:38am

not a good article at all...... spreading something wrong.

Recommend 0

Usman

Jun 06, 2013 11:39am

@Mazhar Hussain: the way you have clarified the exact situation it actually happens like this in normal formal offices that officer of lower grades has to be there before the seniors ...... i think shahid raza will act upon your advises and next time will use space of one of reputed newspaper for some good work THANKS

Recommend 0

GhostRider

Jun 06, 2013 11:40am

Since when did Dawn stoop down to Express Tribune's level??

Recommend 0

Afzal khan

Jun 06, 2013 11:38am

I think Dawn News don,t no what to publish and when to publish. Dawn is a very bias news network they are anti??????

Recommend 0

Muhammad Waqas

Jun 06, 2013 11:38am

When did DAWN morph into a tabloid?

Recommend 0

arju

Jun 06, 2013 11:39am

Why are you Spilling state secrets?.. Everybody knows that bullets are more powerful, at least in the Pakistan history. Sad but true.

Recommend 0

Afzal khan

Jun 06, 2013 11:42am

So what who is going first is this a big news????Dawn shame.

Recommend 0

Skh

Jun 06, 2013 11:44am

@Ali: can u stop people from talking about this incident? R u in the army?

Recommend 0

Skh

Jun 06, 2013 11:45am

Can u stop people talking about this? R u in the army? let people express themselves.

Recommend 0

Khalid Naseem

Jun 06, 2013 11:49am

Is this article really worth to be read?? Poor and immature journalism, shouldn't have found space in a paper like DAWN... This is a mere issue and such issues need not to be highlighted like this. Sorry to say but i was quite dejected to read such an article in dawn. Be mature folks!!!

Recommend 0

Usman Ahsan

Jun 06, 2013 11:49am

Highly immature news article -

Recommend 0

Khan

Jun 06, 2013 11:51am

No body is above law, even if its Arm Chief.

Recommend 0

Saeed A Chughtai

Jun 06, 2013 11:51am

I imagined that Dawn News was a respectable Newspaper, and that it would be well aware of the official protocols and Order of Precedence. Is the editor of this so called learned paper not aware that the Army Chief has to be there at the Presidency before the Prime Minister. Do you not know that Naval Chief Has to be there before the Army Chief. The Media in Pakistan has to more responsible and honest. Some Individuals in the Army may have committed some sins, but that does not mean that an Institution should be targeted just to gain cheap publicity.......I protest and take strong exception to this YELLOW Journalism

Recommend 0

Khan

Jun 06, 2013 11:49am

No body is above Law even if its Army Chief.

Recommend 0

Nadeem Ullah

Jun 06, 2013 11:50am

Come on, please be mature. This is not a worth discussing matter.

Recommend 0

RANA IMRAN

Jun 06, 2013 11:52am

@Dr Junaid: but it does not mean they should start riding over our heads. every body is performing the duties allocated by law. every Pakistani is evenly important in the progress of Pakistan. Army is also serving the Nation as we all Pakistanis.

Recommend 0

FarmerDr

Jun 06, 2013 11:55am

Intentional snub or otherwise it is clear that employed chowkidars take precedence over the head of a household because the servants have been given guns.

Recommend 0

Farooq

Jun 06, 2013 11:56am

Its mere coincidence, but as a matter of principle if u r going to join the main road, right of the way goes to the one passing on that main road, as was the case of COAS convoy. There should be nothing to mention in this case. We should stop this discussion who is superior. let the things take their course in normal fashion.

Recommend 0

aslam minhas

Jun 06, 2013 11:58am

Le us not make a mountain out of a mole. It was not planned. It just happened. The lower whistle-blowing functionary didn't know what was going around. Also let us give benefit of the doubt. Someone had to make a headline and he did it successfully and we read it with interest. Thats all!

Recommend 0

Mir Dost Brohi

Jun 06, 2013 12:05pm

@Dr Junaid: Very funny, seriously. Are you MBBS or PhD Doctor?

Recommend 0

Taimoor

Jun 06, 2013 12:09pm

This is how a good salesman sells his merchandise, tries to highlight the smallest things to make it look big. I fail to understand why people are not highlighting the ambulance that stopped to let PM Sharif's convoy pass, or the children who kept waiting in excessive heat while roads were blocked for this convoy only. What change are we talking about, why does this country expect any change from these individuals.

Recommend 0

Hammad Hasan

Jun 06, 2013 12:18pm

Nothing more than sensational reporting with very poor rationality. I never expect this kind of reporting from Dawn like newspaper. Democracy can never be flourished in this country unless until our media attains the age of maturity. Please avoid such kind of reporting in future. Try to spread harmony, adore and unity in this injurious land.

Recommend 0

Rana

Jun 06, 2013 12:20pm

Pathetic article, and a waste of time to read it. I suggest Dawn to hire mature and professional journalists & editors who know what should be in the newspaper and what not. I hope these journalists know the importance of newspaper and get some exposure to broaden their horizon

Recommend 0

khalid khan

Jun 06, 2013 12:30pm

Media should also get some maturity by now,,, Do not make co incident a collision,,,,,,

Recommend 0

Bushra

Jun 06, 2013 12:35pm

They were inside while COAS was on road. It makes sense for security concerns not to stop the convoy.

Recommend 0

jamki

Jun 06, 2013 12:40pm

@farid: you are so right, We all can feel the pain and frustration reflecting from your comments and share it,

Recommend 0

kashif

Jun 06, 2013 12:42pm

@Sidra: Hi Sidra, while whats wrong is wrong.. but his Highness lives adjacent to Pindi golf course... and one of the gates of army house opens up to the golf course, so I doubt he uses Heli to fly in to play golf. I have played in PGC lots of time but luckily my tee off was never disturbed by COAS' heli. Lets not blow things out of proportion here..

Recommend 0

Arif Khan

Jun 06, 2013 01:03pm

I believe it was lack of co-ordination between Security staff of the PM & the Army Chief and such incidents can be avoided. I am sure the Army chief was moving according to timing whereas the PM started moving when he got ready just before time, the Commando on the corner would not care who is on the other side of Road when his Chief is moving,he would ensure nothing stops the Chief's way and that is what he did.We should not unnecessarily stretch such incident,which occurred on the spur of moment, to the extent of assuming who is more stronger in Pakistan.

Recommend 0

Mariam Bukhari

Jun 06, 2013 01:05pm

Unfortunately our media is not able to digest few moments of peace in this country! They have to create news out of nothing. They always make issues out of non-issues! Oh yes, the love to manipulate things and create controversies. On a separate note, we are crying over which democracy. This Nawaz-Shehbaz democracy? This covert authoritarianism? I don

Recommend 0

Vijay

Jun 06, 2013 01:24pm

An attempt by Army to show that it is still in-charge in Pakistan and call the shots.

Recommend 0

Beauty Site

Jun 06, 2013 01:25pm

I have never seen such a pathetic news on a well reputed newspaper. It was just a co-incidence and media wants to make news on first day of oath.

Recommend 0

QAISER

Jun 06, 2013 01:30pm

is it Dawn News or Geo News?

Recommend 0

Asad

Jun 06, 2013 01:33pm

@farid: u left the country.....but did the country tell u leave it?????

Recommend 0

Bandooq Khan

Jun 06, 2013 01:34pm

Bandooq khan is more mightier then anybody else, harsh reality. until and unless we did not send these army goons we can take a flight towards prosperity

Recommend 0

Khanzada

Jun 06, 2013 01:37pm

The reality it that it is the army and its chief who are more powerful. Ongoing war in FATA and Balochistan, missing people. Democracy is only there because at this juncture, the army do not think it is prudent to take over. Wait and see what happens.

Recommend 0

Khurram

Jun 06, 2013 01:41pm

What an irresponsible journalism is this..... You think Army Chief's convoy should have been stopped on the middle of the road to let NS' convoy passed first...?? had you have ever been in the driving school you would have known that the vehicle already on the main road has the first right to pass...

Recommend 0

rashid zaidi

Jun 06, 2013 01:39pm

The Pakistan military needs it's wings and toes clipped, the process has perhaps been initiated by having a second civilian government. The military should be treated as any other entity of the state, no special perks and preferred treatment should be given to them. If Pakistan does well then they should get their fair share, In days of austerity they should share the pain and cuts. This incident could have been planned by a zealous young officer to belittle the newly elected Prime Minister, welcome to immature Pakistan.

Recommend 0

panjab

Jun 06, 2013 01:42pm

Yes Army chief and Pak ARmy are above the law!

Recommend 0

Aizaz Moin

Jun 06, 2013 01:45pm

These colonial style trappings HAVE TO STOP. We cannot move forward as a democratic state if this "one rule for one and another for the rest" does not stop. Gora Sahib has been replaced by the Kala Sahib

Recommend 0

FACT

Jun 06, 2013 02:02pm

It is just an example of sick journalism, never read a more pathatic news.

Recommend 0

Ashfaq

Jun 06, 2013 02:08pm

Mr. Nawaz Sharif should be thankful that Army Chief did not stop him from taking over office of the Prime Minister. Pakistan can not be changed with votes and bogus vote stamping and stuffing together. What it really needs, I think you as a reader know it well.

Recommend 0

Adil

Jun 06, 2013 02:08pm

Pakistani people are not in position to indulge in such controversial issues.we cant afford it! We have to follow true journalism...not sensationalism.....and dawn is no doubt the most well reputed newspaper.

Recommend 0

Sulman

Jun 06, 2013 02:14pm

I am surprised the Army chief is able to show his face in public - considering it was while he was in command that the Americans violated Paskistan's territory, came to Abbottabad military town and killed Pakistanis and foreigners (Osama Bin Ladin) and escaped without the Pakistani Army firing a single shot in defence of Pakistani territory - the primary purpose of the existence of the Pakistani Army! It is high time for the Pakistan army to learn its place in society - in the barracks or on the borders and subservient to the elected leader of the people of Pakistan - and the Chief of the Pakistani Army should hide his face in shame until the Army has redeemed its honour.

Recommend 0

Ahmar Qureshi

Jun 06, 2013 02:20pm

We have to look forward for the betterment & well repute of the Country, rather commenting ill or passing false statements about The Premier & The Services! The whole world can see & read! Consider it an article to read just for the information, kindly abstain from any "Civil War of Comments" Thank you!

Recommend 0

Abdul Samad

Jun 06, 2013 02:19pm

I am sure Nawaz Sharif has changed himself. He wants to see the nation and country in a better shape. He would not mind if his convoy stopped for few minutes on the road. Everybody has to show tolerance. Think of equilbrium in rights and duties.

Recommend 0

Farooq Abdullah

Jun 06, 2013 02:31pm

@Khurram: I wish, the reporter, reporting this news should have thought like you. This is not even a news. It is just a happening.

Recommend 0

Farooq Abdullah

Jun 06, 2013 02:31pm

@Khurram: I wish, the reporter, reporting this news should have thought like you. This is not even a news. It is just a happening.

Recommend 0

Nauman

Jun 06, 2013 02:34pm

What a foolish article? Army chief's convey cant be stopped on the road due to great security risk! Some fools are deliberately trying to find a connection. What a shame for Dawn news to quote such irresponsible news.

Recommend 0

Nauman

Jun 06, 2013 02:35pm

@farid: Please never come back. We dont need you!

Recommend 0

Mystic

Jun 06, 2013 02:40pm

If you follow strict protocol, Nawaz Sharif was not PM at that time since he had not yet taken oath. Sad to see Dawn promoting sensationalism.

Recommend 0

hassan gondal

Jun 06, 2013 03:01pm

c'mon, didnt u write that the Mrs nawaz and his daughter was ahead of the convoy, than why should have their SUV allowed before the COAS vehicle. Moreover, whoever is on the highway has right to go first......lame on the part o media

Recommend 0

Shah Kamal

Jun 06, 2013 03:03pm

this time PM will not repeat the mistake to off Army chief when he is in air. I am very hungry to know the name of person who gave such an idea to PM Nawaz Sahrif. and he accepted that. I dont think that there will be clear change in this 5 years by them. As most of them are Lipstick & powder all family in Parliament. let see hope the best. other wise will be packed liked PPP, ANP,

Recommend 0

A Kashmiri

Jun 06, 2013 03:09pm

this news is rubish, I really was not expecting that from Dawn. long live Pakistan Army.

Recommend 0

Roger

Jun 06, 2013 03:18pm

Given Pakistan's history and the subtleties in the 'expressions' of power in the past, IMHO, this is indeed a newsworthy incident regardless of whether it was a coincidence or not. It is one of those 'We Report, You Decide' journalism. The report itself could have been better managed, because the journalist has not sought anyone's views on the incident in the report, and has given his own opinions. Anyway, while I feel it might have been a coincidence, I believe the blame should be placed on the Protocol officer who should have ensured that this minorly serious incident did not occur - saving the embarrassment for both the individuals. That precisely is the Protocol Officer's role. At the minimum, there are lessons to be learnt in the incident. Roger (your 'nosy' neighbor from across the border :)

Recommend 0

M K Sufi

Jun 06, 2013 03:22pm

@Khurram: It is question of protocol. Prime Minister whosoever he/she maybe gets the right of the way. No wonder democracy doesnt work in this Country

Recommend 0

qasim

Jun 06, 2013 03:32pm

there wr two ways...either they stop already passing convoy of the army chief in the middle and let nawaz convoy move in btween creating a mess or let one convoy pass and the other follow...letting things go smoothly...which one u wd choose?

Recommend 0

A Kashmiri

Jun 06, 2013 03:33pm

Shahzad Raza what you wrote is rubbish. Dawn can you please delete this rubish?

Recommend 0

Tariq Shamsi

Jun 06, 2013 03:35pm

If we speak strictly according to protocol, Mr. Nawaz Sharif was still Prime Minister IN WAITING till he was administered the oath of office by the President. Hence, he is also not entitled protocol of sitting PM, such as to fly the flags of the PM office on his car. Whereas at that moment in time, the COAS was in sitting in office and was flying the COAS Army flags. Quite obviously, he would get precedence over a Member of Parliament, while at that point in time Mr. Sharif was just a Member of Parliament till such time he took oath of office.

Recommend 0

A Kashmiri

Jun 06, 2013 03:34pm

@Vijay: the news is twisted and sick just to make people like you feel better.

Recommend 0

Najam Sethi

Jun 06, 2013 03:38pm

This goes out to each and everyone of you; from a hobo to an industrialist. I'm very much disappointed with the quality of journalism today.

Recommend 0

qasim

Jun 06, 2013 03:41pm

@Ghulam Abbas: hmmm ok.lets consider a sitauation. ten cars are passing on a straight road. but in between u stop five cars to let another 10 different cars to pass through on the same route. wont it be a mess? the article clearing saying k army chief convoy ws passing? i think mr PM is himself that much aqal mand that he would understand the situation instead of creating mess n confusion! use sm common sense plz

Recommend 0

noor

Jun 06, 2013 03:46pm

A mare coincidence has been converted into a breaking news story, shameless act

Recommend 0

syed baqar ahsan

Jun 06, 2013 03:53pm

It is lack of coordination amongst the security and protocol staff,however as usual our media's prime duty to create cracks and dis taste ,the security and int find out who is behind it

Recommend 0

A Kashmiri

Jun 06, 2013 03:54pm

DAWN CAN YOU PLEASE REMOVE THIS ARTICLE. NO ONE LIKES THIS.

Recommend 0

Bhatti

Jun 06, 2013 03:57pm

@kashif: thanks, noted the place where you play Golf.

Recommend 0

Tariq

Jun 06, 2013 04:05pm

Has this journalist nothing better to report other than useless tit-bit?

Recommend 0

abomination

Jun 06, 2013 04:18pm

LIKE A BOSS!

Recommend 0

Aziz

Jun 06, 2013 04:20pm

It is the wife of the head of the state who is the 'first lady'. Not the wife of the head of government, which is what Mr. Nawaz Sharif is. Dawn should have corrected this error.

Recommend 0

abomination

Jun 06, 2013 04:19pm

Like a BOSS!

Recommend 0

Ghalib

Jun 06, 2013 04:26pm

Pathetic behaviour by Dawn really, you sound like geo news Anyway NS was not sworn it by that time anyway.

Recommend 0

Asad

Jun 06, 2013 04:35pm

Is it you Dawn News? Do you know international driving rules?

Recommend 0

reader

Jun 06, 2013 04:42pm

"Who is the real power wielder in Pakistan: the Prime Minister or the Army chief?" Well I would hope it's the Army chief.

Recommend 0

Does it matter

Jun 06, 2013 04:43pm

@FACT: Whats sick about it!

Recommend 0

Gerry D'Cunha

Jun 06, 2013 04:44pm

A new crack down with the new government. Who is the boss? no hanky panky

Recommend 0

o'brother

Jun 06, 2013 04:45pm

Its clear who is more important, one achieved his current position through hard work, endless education, training etc. etc. the other by collecting 146 lotas, votes of the so called elected representatives who themselves or through their lackeys committed fraud during elections to get elected. Down with the LOTA Prime Minister elect and the dishonnest and corrupt democracy. Sometimes I wonder if Nawaz in his heart truly believes that he has the right to govern my country Pakistan. May Allah the Almighty put away all these corrupt politicians and bless our nation with someone honnest soon.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 04:52pm

rubbish

Recommend 0

mohammad

Jun 06, 2013 04:57pm

no problem. all are important for state. it does not determine who is more important.DAWN IS INDULGING IN DIVISIVE JOURNALISM.

Recommend 0

Ali-Hassan Ayub

Jun 06, 2013 04:57pm

@Ali: when will unpatriotic people like you get lost?

Recommend 0

imran

Jun 06, 2013 04:59pm

atleast not expected from dawn news!! there are many big issues than such things !!!

Recommend 0

Xeric

Jun 06, 2013 04:58pm

1st of all this had to be a coincidence, even if it was not, Mr Nawaz Sharif, just a potential PM had yet to take oath. Thus he enjoyed no portfolio.

Recommend 0

Reas Ekberg

Jun 06, 2013 05:00pm

There are certain traffic rules for right of the way. I dont know the exact situation. There seems no question of power. It is outlined in constitution. PM many times fired the COAS,

Recommend 0

Salim

Jun 06, 2013 05:17pm

Its sickening to hear military already showing its power. There is a protocol under which PM's cavalcade gets precedence over Army chief's. But in today's Pakistan,military is mightier than Democratic institutions.

Recommend 0

Kamal Ahmed

Jun 06, 2013 05:19pm

@Ashok R. Prabhu: you are absolutely right

Recommend 0

Moeen

Jun 06, 2013 05:41pm

@Salim: Technically he was not the PM at that time since he had not taken oath !!!

Recommend 0

Hasan

Jun 06, 2013 05:43pm

@A Kashmiri: it's true, why true will not be accepted?

Recommend 0

Fahim

Jun 06, 2013 05:58pm

It is not about Army asserting it's power. It is simply an example of lack of coordination between different groups of people. We should not waste our energy in petty little things like this.

Recommend 0

raja hindustani

Jun 06, 2013 06:12pm

I am amazed to notice Pakistani people support for the Army. 90% of comments are either supporting Army, justifing Army or abusing Dawn. But nobody support prime minister who is duly elected by Pakistani people only. The purpose of thie article is to highlight who is having real power in pakistan and we all know the truth.

Recommend 0

MAK

Jun 06, 2013 06:19pm

Here we go again!!!! The man is on his way to raise his right hand and become the next PM and here this newspaper is already dividing the masses on a mere technicality. The MP who stopped the would-be- PM's caravan was merely doing his job and they have a JOB LOYALTY to safeguard his commander-in-chief. He would have stopped Obama's caravan. We should be proud of such actions.

Recommend 0

s s ayub

Jun 06, 2013 06:19pm

hehehehehehehe...... Two third majority! My foot!

Recommend 0

Sayed Ahmed

Jun 06, 2013 06:20pm

It does not the matter who is who, what matters is the right of way. Apparently the Army Chief had the right of way

Recommend 0

Arif T

Jun 06, 2013 06:29pm

1) Nawaz Sharif was not elected at the time hence COAS takes precendence. 2) Technically the motorcade was not stopped..it had not even started its journey! On the contrary if the COAS was stopped that would have been a breach of code of conduct and protocol 3) the cars belonged to the family of NS, the latters cars were parked nearby. The reporter has twisted words to remain factual yet twist the situation to serve his murky agenda. Not expected from DAWN

Recommend 0

justforcarp

Jun 06, 2013 06:38pm

Let us see if the Army Chief apologizes to the PM. That is what would happen in say barbaric countries like India, US and UK . But Pakistan being a highly civilized country and that too a bastion of Islam, I am not holding my breath.

Recommend 0

nazim

Jun 06, 2013 06:48pm

I think now we should come out of false representation of things by the media personal. The writer must have given the true status of Mr Nawaz sharif at the time of incident "A normal man who was about to take oath not the prime minister". Its bad to creat confusions within the public circles we all must condemn it. Poor show Dawn News.

Recommend 0

Bilal

Jun 06, 2013 06:50pm

@raja hindustani: Macro Analysis always helps Mr. Hindustani. I do agree with you that in a democratic state, the PM is the head of the government and all civil servants are answerable to him. However, its wise to note that Nawaz Sharif was not the PM when this happened. Moreover, had he been the PM, he would have had an official protocol which is always coordinated with the ones responsible to ensure security detail and such an incident wouldn't have had taken place. The COAS would always have a priority over most dignitaries.

Recommend 0

Khalid Abbasi

Jun 06, 2013 07:06pm

@Salim: you have to have some idea as to how security is planned and its logistics worked out. the convoy that was stopped was not of the prime minister but a general non flagged (non-prioritized) group of vehicles. This news being carried by Dawn is just sentimentalization. The journalists must have knowledge of the mechanics, at least basics, of what they are reporting on. I am sure the PM's office will not get involved in this "newspaper" selling tabloiiud like news. Dawn is expected to be a serious professional news paper. Stop trying to create a rift between institutions by maligning, or drawing unwanted inferences. Khalid New York

Recommend 0

lil mosh

Jun 06, 2013 07:37pm

@Salim: dude get your info right before maligning anyone!! Nawaz Sharif was on his way to be sworn in ,that means no head of state protocol or other benefits !!

Recommend 0

William

Jun 06, 2013 07:58pm

I said earlier as well......Dawn is a sold out case...Journalisim at its worst....just trying to get cheap popularity from International readers Dawn is supporting things which are anti-Pakistan. Dawn Stinks...................

Recommend 0

Kashif

Jun 06, 2013 08:04pm

Whether its chief of army or prime minister, none of them has any right to block public road just so they can pass as priority - its not their father's country. Rule is for everyone to follow.

Recommend 0

Ayaz Ahmed Laghari

Jun 06, 2013 08:06pm

Reading the report regarding the convoy of the prime minister and Army Cheif in, I started thinking is this news has any importance? in our country where military remained disturbing factor for democracy but witnessing the last 5 years i can conclude that military now wants a sustained democracy. This is, no doubt, an era of democracy where president and premier are standing in presidency due to people power no back or support is given by army. Army Chief was happily seen during oath ceremony and a meeting was also held after the ceremony. in such good (democratic) transition of government reflected now Pakistan will never hear the long boots in presidensy or premier house. these kinds of report can urge some sections of society for criticise and that criticise can lead further unhealthy political environment.

Recommend 0

Jun 06, 2013 08:06pm

The PM needs to focus on other more pressing issues. It will be unfortunate if he occupies his time, which people have entrusted hime with, with such trivia.

Recommend 0

FAZAL HAQ

Jun 06, 2013 08:10pm

I do not know who spreads such news? WE SHOULD B SHAMED OUR SELF by telling lies and spreading such concoted and self design stories. For info of everyone, Gen Kiani came to Awani Saddar at around 1630 hours, he was inside much before arrival of many guests. Nawaz Sharif entered at around approx over 1730, gen kianai was inside almost one hour before to receive the president and new PM. I do not know some of us fear of death and are habitual liers on every account and spread hatred and one sided ficticious stories from no where. I was myelf witnessing the whole program, I do not know what the writer is to get from this concoted story? Either the writer misunderstood the convoy or has intentionally did it, God knows better. shame on such people, pl spare us from this dirty game. Dawn.com should also b carefull by giving space to such people

Recommend 0

Zohair

Jun 06, 2013 08:20pm

He was not the PM at that moment...so issue resolved :)

Recommend 0

Awais Hameed

Jun 06, 2013 08:35pm

'Might is right' but we need to materialize that real 'might' in a democratic society lies with the people's representatives and not with the people's servants!

Recommend 0

Yaru

Jun 06, 2013 08:37pm

Mr Writer, You based your story on some hearsay account of some PML-N sources and eyewitnesses which for me is a bit vague to base my opinion on. For me I would consider your story to be fake and an attempt to create an unnecessary and meaningless rift between the institutions before even the start of the Mr NS's journey (for the third time). Hey, that

Recommend 0

Asif RAza

Jun 06, 2013 08:38pm

How could Nawaz Sharif ever challenge the Army or its Chief because the simple fact is that Nawaz Sharif is product of Army. he however can prove to be a real LION by trying Gen Musharaf under article 6 of the constitution.If a tyrant like cursed Zia could hang The most intelligent politician after Jinnah why cant a civil court hang a general to death. If Nawaz Sharif wants to set things right and uphold the supremacy of the Parliament and Constitution than he has to revoke the ammunity given to Presidents,Prime Ministers and so on so forth.No one in the land should be above the law. If Khalifa Umar Ibn Khattab (RA) can be summoned in court by an ordinary person then what status these people have compared to Ameer ul Momineen? Or they should change the preamble of the Constitution and remove the wordings where it states that all laws should be in accordance with Quraan and Sunnah and remove the word Islamic from Pakistan's name.Otherwise Nawaz Sharif will be remembered as a Wolf and not a Lion. Allah never guides the people who transgress. May Allah open our hearts for understanding the Glorious Quraan.

Recommend 0

Danriz

Jun 06, 2013 08:41pm

When this happened, Nawaz Sharif was going to take an oath. Legally he was not the prime minister.

Recommend 0

tahir

Jun 06, 2013 08:50pm

when this is supposed to have happened MNS was an MNA not the prime minister, so whats the big deal? unless we have some other interpretation - of which there can be any number as is shown here!

Recommend 0

pathanoo

Jun 06, 2013 08:58pm

BFD!! Come on all you Guys; give the traffic Cop a break. How the hell is he supposed to know who is in the caravan or cars he is stopping? You Pakis are the greatest conspiracy theorists. No wonder you never look at the ground realities. And then, why should you? When the conspiracies are so titilating, why bother with reality.

Recommend 0

Mustafa

Jun 06, 2013 09:01pm

**There is a saying "Making mountain out of a mole hill" So true.**

Recommend 0

Azeem Khan

Jun 06, 2013 09:05pm

Is Dawn running out of news? There are more critical issues to report on then who's car crossed the road first. Is Dawn becoming a tabloid now?

Recommend 0

dr mujeeb

Jun 06, 2013 09:09pm

.may almghty save democracy nd make democracy strong enough against any dectetor in future...democrecy zndabad ,pakistan paendabad

Recommend 0

Shahzad Akhund

Jun 06, 2013 09:45pm

I could not have said it better. However, the news item tries to give a different impression. @Xeric:

Recommend 0

kck

Jun 06, 2013 09:44pm

I guess traffic copps were regulating traffic flow from all directions for the safety and security of all traffic. I do not think this it was show of priority of power; it was simply safety and security of road traffic generated at the time. No big deal.

Recommend 0

Saeed

Jun 06, 2013 09:52pm

hahahaha....Bravo!! Precedence is according to qualification and service, not for the post n money. Hope he is a wise man and will not ask for two trucks of soldiers for PM house this time...;-)

Recommend 0

syed assad shah

Jun 06, 2013 10:51pm

it is totally a coincident that someone goes and someone stopped that is only misperception spreading by the american media who happ and want to see weeken army of pakistan , but i would like to convey throug that newspaper which is on board om american media,,, pakistani people love the our great army and ISI. stopp writing any foolish news

Recommend 0

Khizar Hayat

Jun 07, 2013 01:00am

It is nothing but a nonsense attempt to create a mountain out of molehill

Recommend 0

vik1

Jun 07, 2013 01:59am

People need not to care much about this. But if you ask me to bet on - I would bet on Army Chief!!

Recommend 0

Citizen

Jun 07, 2013 02:04am

What sort of petty news reporting is this? One would expect something better than an over dramaticised speculation worthy of a cheap tabloid, in Pakistan's so-called premier news agency. This occurrence could easily be a mere case of traffic regulations or a scheduling conflict rather than a colossal show of power by the military as this article implies. I think Dawn should start taking a closer look at the level of professionalism and critical analysis employed by its reporters in their writing.

Recommend 0

Syed Javed Akbar

Jun 07, 2013 02:34am

If NS had not yet taken the oath, no protocol was violated.

Recommend 0

Asad Awan

Jun 07, 2013 11:45am

Its before the oath taking ceremony.So till then Nawaz was only a common citizen of Pakistan.So there is nothing wrong with it.On the other hand COAS's life is much important than anyone else.

Recommend 0

Rajat

Jun 07, 2013 11:51am

Its everybodys guess that Pakistan army is more powerful than even president in Pak. Nawaz sharif, while being a good man is trapped in between the lawless army and the development hungry citizens. Hope he is able to bring peace, prosperity in Pakistan and healthy relations with India

Recommend 0

Arslan Khan

Jun 07, 2013 12:53pm

This has nothing to do with who has more power. Army chief's convoy was already on the road and PM's convoy had not yet left the safety of Punjab House. Can you imagine what common man would have had to endure if AC's convoy was stopped blocking the entire road all the way back to Cantonment including all major intersections. If you have traveled on these roads you know the mess it creates when a convoy passes let alone if a convoy is stopped mid way.

Recommend 0

shalabh

Jun 07, 2013 02:43pm

@Syed Javed Akbar: lol...no protocol violated...army chief shud then give a parting kick too since there was no protocol....lol

Recommend 0

Afsar Khan

Jun 07, 2013 03:27pm

@Xeric: Exactly right. But then why such protocols at all. All should follow traffic rules PM or Army Chief.

Recommend 0

Hayat

Jun 07, 2013 04:03pm

The protocol demands that COAS must be seated before PM(elect) arrives at the venue and the guy knew it.

Recommend 0

Arshad

Jun 07, 2013 04:48pm

This is what media does, makes a non-issue an issue. In the above story, NS is nowhere in the scene. The commando would never stop Army Chief and let Kulssom Nawaz, Mariam Safdar, Hamza and Hassan Nawaz pass even if NS had taken the oath.

Recommend 0

Jahanzeb

Jun 07, 2013 05:29pm

@Salim: On the day of the oath taking ceremony, the PM is the chief guest and protocol insures that the PM is the last man to enter (after which the doors are closed). Had army allowed the PM to pass through, they might not have been able to attend the ceremony (and the Army generals do sit in the front row). There isn't much to it as people are reading in it.

Recommend 0

Hayat

Jun 07, 2013 05:51pm

@Salim: The protocol demands that COAS must be seated before the PM(elect) arrives the venue.

Recommend 0

Jun 07, 2013 06:29pm

What's the big deal here, we all stop ,open doors and say thank you to each other out here in the u.s,we also stop at red lights and intersections,and what is this talk of grade 22 and 82what difference does that make

Recommend 0

Jawaid Ahmed

Jun 07, 2013 11:45pm

NS had not yet taken the oath of office.No protocol violated

Recommend 0

mahsud

Jun 08, 2013 04:21am

@reader: offcourse one and only the the army chief...........whatever anybody say the true saviour and benefactor of Pakistan and Pakistani people is army,,,,,,,,,at least they cannot betray because they have everything in Pakistan,,,,,,,,,

Recommend 0

AAJ

Jun 08, 2013 05:01am

Whoever it is taking roads... the commoners & public are ALWAYS stopped! A matter who pay your salary, the tax-payers OR they???

Recommend 0

muhammad imran tahir

Jun 08, 2013 06:02am

Shame type of reporting by such a newspaper..... u may also check out whether NS used washroom in presidency or COAS... n make it a headline....nonesense

Recommend 0

redi

Jun 08, 2013 11:04am

"Here is a parable to illustrate the degrees in which our nature may be enlightened or unenlightened. Imagine the condition of men living in a sort of cavernouse chamber underground, with an entrance open to the light and a long passage all down the cave. Here they have been from childhood, chained by the leg and also by the neck, so that they cannot move and can see only what is in front of them, because the chains will not let them turn their heads. At some distance, higher up in the light of a fire burning behind them; and between the prisoners and the fire is a track with a parapet built along it, like a screen at a puppet-show, which hides the performers while they show their puppets over the top." (Republic; Plato) The first public show of a commander, of obstructing the way of an elected Prime Minister of a country to let pass the Chief of the Army Staff was not shocking in the sense that this is the real structure of Pakistani politics, but was shameful because it exposed our real face to the whole international community. The fact that might only rule in this country has been proved, already, by the blatant supremacy of the Talibaan. But the dreams of the people of Pakistan shattered with this shameful act on the part of the Army under a chief who, time and again, asserts that the supreme power of the country is it's constitution and the parliament. But, sadly, the fact remains, what the fact always is; In the puppet show, on the front, are always the puppets. The masters? Always hidden.

Recommend 0

redi

Jun 08, 2013 11:08am

@Syed Javed Akbar: he had, already, been elected by the parliament as the new Prime Minister.

Recommend 0

Javaid

Jun 08, 2013 12:39pm

No problem, he still owes a lot to militrymen who made him Mian Nawaz Sharif, the premier. This is what he should never forget.

Recommend 0

ehsan

Jun 08, 2013 03:59pm

What a non-sense news. We Pakistanis are too much in to these kind of un-necessary things. What is the matter if one or other's convoy is stopped to give way. Something un-expected from DAWN news.

Recommend 0

Branded Content

Premier Choice International expands its portfolio of global partnerships with Regus in Islamabad

Building on its partnerships with international hospitality names Hilton and Ramada, PCI brings global co-working brand Regus to its developments, with further expansion planned across Islamabad.