Free, fair polls top priority, says PM
Bureau Report

KARACHI—Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro has said that the government’s top priority is to ensure free, fair and transparent general elections in the country. He said this in separate meetings with Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishrat- ul- Ebad Khan at the Governor House and Chief Minister Dr. Arbab Ghulam Rahim at the CM House here Saturday.
Mohammadmian Soomro said the government is taking steps for creating a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the elections. In this regard, he said, the government would welcome suggestions from all political parties in the country. He said the government expects the political parties to abide by the Code of Conduct circulated by the Election Commission and also to follow the security guidelines issued by the Ministry of Interior. He said the caretaker government would ensure continuity of reform-oriented policies so that the people of Pakistan continue to benefit from them.
The Caretaker Prime Minister was briefed on overall law and order situation in the province and the steps being taken by the provincial government for holding elections in a peaceful atmosphere. The Sindh Governor and the Chief Minister congratulated Mohammedmian Soomro on assuming new responsibilities.
Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammadmian Soomro has said holding of timely, free, fair and transparent election is the responsibility of the interim government and hoped that the task would be achieved in a successful manner. He said this on Sunday while visiting the Maousoleum of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar at Sehwan Sharif and paid rich tributes to the great sufi saint. Soomro called upon the people to maintain an atmosphere of brotherhood and affection as preached by Islam.
The people should also display the same spirit during the election and exercise their right of franchise in favour of their suitable candidates. About the construction, renovation and beautification of Sehwan town Soomro said he is fully aware about the facts and issued directives to the officers concerned. The Caretaker Prime Minister while expressing his deep affection with Lal Shahbaz Qalandar said the people should follow the message of these great saints and strive for the progress, prosperity and integrity of the country. A group of local notables also met the Prime Minister. They greeted him over assuming the charge of the caretaker Prime Minister. Soomro on the occasion said that holding of free, fair and transparent election was his top priority.
Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammadmian Soomro has called upon the people to maintain an atmosphere of brotherhood and affection as preached by Islam. The people should also display the same spirit during the election and exercise their right of franchise in favour of their favourite candidates.
The Caretaker PM emphasised this while talking to official media after meeting with a delegation of notables here at Irrigation Rest House on Sunday afternoon. He said holding of timely, free, fair and transparent election is the responsibility of the present government and the task would be achieved in a successful manner.