March 07, 2008	Friday	Safar 28, 1429

LAHORE, March 6: Expressing concern at reports of ailment of nuclear scientist Dr A.Q. Khan and former Balochistan chief minister Akhtar Mengal, PML-N patron and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has demanded release of both the incarcerated persons and provision of the best health facilities to them.

In a statement on Thursday, he said the nation was worried at the falling health of Dr Khan and wanted his immediate release so that he could be treated by the medical team of his choice.

He said detention and mental pressure were the main causes behind his health problems.

Also seeking release of Mr Mengal, Sharif said after the success of democratic forces in the Feb 18 vote, there was no logic for using such dictatorial tactics against politicians.

Talking to the party's Policy Group here, the former prime minister said all attempts to sabotage the mandate of the masses had failed and therefore President Pervez Musharraf should give in to their verdict.

He said the people in the Feb 18 vote had given a clear message that the way to restoration of the Constitution, democracy and judiciary could not be blocked any further.

Sharif said the coalition of the PML-N, the PPP and the ANP would, through constitutional reforms, eliminate dictatorship for good.

The former prime minister said that welfare of the masses would be their first priority as a comprehensive plan was in the making to rid the masses of price-hike and poverty.

Earlier, the Policy Group presented to the party patron its recommendations regarding the reforms package.