24 February 2005	Thursday	14 Muharram 1426

ISLAMABAD, Feb 23: An effective local government system could bring the decision-makers closer to people, making it more responsive and accountable and the ultimate goal of development must be to build capacities of people.

These views were expressed by the PTI political secretary, Saifullah Khan Nyazee, during a meeting with a US embassy delegation headed by Divya Swamy. The two sides discussed the political situation in the country with specific reference to the upcoming local bodies elections.

The PTI leader emphasised on the importance of independent and free institutions such as judiciary, accountability and election commission for genuine changes in the country.

He said the PTI had been advocating setting up of vibrant local government institutions in which people could repose their trust and confidence. Let people choose and decide for themselves, he said.

Meanwhile, a statement issued here on Wednesday quoted PTI Chairman Imran Khan as saying that the political infighting was a result of a set-up created by the establishment through fraudulent election.