The Grapevine February 2014

Dr Javaid Leghari, the former tainted chairman of HEC, has finally vacated the government guest-house but is resisting returning two government vehicles and a laptop. To top it all, he is threatening HEC officials of dire consequences if these amenities are taken back from him.

Marvi Memon has special powers vested in her cellular phone. During a recent PIA flight, Marvi got tired of waiting and was told that the plane is not taking off as there is no fuel and no money to fill it up. She immediately messaged Ishaq Dar who swung his magic wand and within a short time the plane took off. Quite an example of speedy good governance.

Several top PPP politicians, who are part of the Sindh cabinet, have been making several trips to Dubai each week with bags full of cash. The money earned here is being used for investing abroad, especially in Dubai and UAE.

Targeted military operation has been going on against militants in North Waziristan for over a month but it is only now that the government has acknowledged it. Fears of a blowback have forced the government to remain tightlipped about the military operations.