22 May 2004	Saturday	02 Rabi-us-Saani 1425

KARACHI, May 21: Governor Ishratul Ibad on Friday presided over a high-level meeting at the Governor's House to review the law and order situation.

The meeting reviewed steps for holding transparent by-elections of local governments in Karachi and Khairpur.

Advisor on home affairs Aftab Shaikh, chief secretary Dr Muttawakil Kazi, principal secretary to governor Brig Akhtar Zamin, additional chief secretary (home) Syed Anwar Haider, DG Rangers Maj-Gen Javed Zia, IGP Syed Kamal Shah, City Police Chief Asad Ashraf Malik and others attended the meeting.

The governor directed the officials to cooperate with the election commission and ensure protection of voters at all costs. He asked the LEAs to remain alert and beef up security in the areas where by elections would be held on Saturday.

He stated that steps be taken in a manner that all institutions of government remain impartial and provide peaceful environment to voters. The officials concerned informed the governor about the steps, so far, taken. Mr Ibad expressed the hope that all the quarters would extend cooperation for holding by elections. -PPI