ATTOCK, Oct 16: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Malik Hakmeen Khan has said that PPP Chairperson Benazir Bhutto will return as per the announced schedule, putting to rest all rumours about any change of plans.

Talking to reporters, he said despite serious threat to her life, Ms Bhutto had made a irrevocable decision to return home on October 18 to lead her party and bring political stability to the country with the support of the people. Mr Khan said the party chairperson would be given a historic reception on her arrival in Karachi, adding that over a million people were expected to welcome Ms Bhutto.

He said like other parts of the country, a big rally would proceed from Attock to Karachi to participate in the reception.

Commenting on the forthcoming general elections, he said the PPP would win a clear victory, if the polls were held in a transparent manner.

“The PPP is the only political party that has the support of the entire nation, and it is also a symbol of federation in the country.”

He regretted that some political elements were criticising Ms Bhutto’s leadership, and termed it “totally unjustified”.

“Benazir will act as per the desires of the nation as she believes in democratic principles,” he stressed.

About the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), he was of the view that the PPP had not compromised on its principles and was in the forefront of the movement for the supremacy of the judiciary.

MOBILISATION DRIVE: The PPP local leadership is busy mobilising the party workers and other people in a grand reception for Ms Bhutto.