Govt discussing political future with PPP: Rashid - Governor's rule in Sindh & Balochistan ruled out
By Amir Wasim
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22: Federal Information and Broadcasting Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has again claimed that the government is in contact with the People's Party Parliamentarians and the two sides are discussing the 'political future' of the country.
Talking to Dawn here on Tuesday, the minister refused to elaborate the nature of the contact, saying it could damage the process. He said that although the government was busy in reconciliation with the PPP, there was no place for the party in the present set-up. "The PPP has no role in the present set-up and talks are being held only on future politics in an effort to bring stability to the country," he said.
Replying to a question, he categorically ruled out the possibility of general elections in the country this year, a major demand of the PPP. However, the minister hinted that the issue of fresh elections was being discussed between the two sides. "Yes, the PPP wants elections in 2005 and the government is insisting on 2007."
NO GOVERNOR's RULE: Earlier, speaking at a religious conference in Rawalpindi, Sheikh Rashid said political stability and reconciliation in the country was essential in the prevailing regional and international scenario and the government was in contact with the PPP to achieve this objective.
He said there was no possibility of governor's rule either in Sindh or in Balochistan. The minister refuted reports that there were serious differences in the ruling Pakistan Muslim League, and claimed that the PML was united under the leadership of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain.
He called upon all schools of thought to play their role for achieving religious harmony and brotherhood in the country. The minister asked the participants of the conference to present Islam as a religion of responsibility, civility and patience.
