KARACHI, Aug 12: The Sindh Governor, Dr Ishratul Ibad, on Friday announced the withdrawal of all cases against journalists. “We realize that journalists have been victimised and dragged into false cases. On the occasion of the Independence Day, I hereby announce withdrawal of cases against them,” he said while addressing a gathering of the All Pakistan Lubricants Manufacturers Association.

The governor said in the next two years, there would be a big change on the development and economic fronts in the province especially in Karachi, which had not been paid due attention in the past.

“Today I make a commitment that we would resolve decades old problems with sincerity in the shortest time,” he said.

He listed many vital projects like construction of underpasses, flyovers, roads, strengthening of communication network and said the government would move ahead with more developments plans. All this would boost economic activity, he added.

Ibad said he would ensure that the next local government maintained at least the present pace of development.

“The next local governments would have to move at a speed of 120-km per hour to escape accountability by the people,” he said.

Giving an overall view, he said besides improved law and order and increased economic activity, there was great improvement in social, cultural and sports activities.

However, he called upon all sections of society to join and march in the right direction with the thought of an independent nation and a sovereign and prosperous Pakistan.

The governor said that the business community should play a vital role in improving the living standard of people by providing maximum jobs and supplying goods and services to them at the lowest possible rates.

Speaking of organized crimes, he said the government had already launched crackdown against gangs operating in the province. “Action against them will continue till crime was totally wiped out,” he maintained.

Ibad also warned corrupt and inefficient government officials of strict legal action.

“I will name these people publicly and recommend strict legal action against them,” he said.

— APP