KARACHI: Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, Murtaza Solangi firmly said on Thursday that the general elections in Pakistan are scheduled for February 8, 2024, and there should be no doubts about it.
During a Press conference alongside Provincial Information Minister Ahmed Shah, Solangi emphasized the caretaker government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring free and fair elections on the date specified by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). He reiterated the government’s assurance that all financial, administrative, and security requirements of the ECP would be met.
Solangi highlighted that the federal government is actively working to facilitate communication between the federal and provincial governments. He announced that federal and provincial information ministers would collaborate to devise a joint strategy for the upcoming elections.
Asserting the principle that the people of Pakistan have the prerogative to choose their leaders, Solangi referred to the Constitution, emphasizing that the elected representatives would govern the country. He underscored the role of the elected parliament and government in making significant decisions.
The minister expressed the government’s commitment to maintaining a stable situation in the lead-up to the general elections, ensuring a smooth transition to the elected government. He affirmed that the caretaker setup is providing comprehensive support to the ECP in conducting free and transparent elections.
In response to a query, Solangi informed that Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar had visited Karachi multiple times within a brief two-month period. He mentioned the prime minister’s forthcoming visit to Karachi for an event at the Stock Exchange.
Solangi praised the caretaker Prime Minister’s friendly approach, stating that he had a commendable record of visiting provinces and cities. Responding to concerns about security, Solangi acknowledged historical security challenges during election periods but reassured that the national security agencies were adept at handling such situations, citing examples from past elections.