December 12, 2008	Friday	Zilhaj 13, 1429

MARDAN, Dec 11: NWFP Chief Minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti said that some ‘hidden hands’ were at work to deteriorate political and economic situation in Karachi in pursuance of their vested interests.

Talking to reporters at his residence here on Thursday, he said that both Muttahida Qaumi Movement and the Awami National Party will have to check certain elements to maintain peace in Karachi.

Hoti said that Karachi was the main artery of the country’s economy, but the enemies of Pakistan want to create chaos and instability in the port city stressing they would not be allowed to fulfill their nefarious designs.

He said, “We had some reservations about the operation in Karachi which were conveyed to the federal government that were then removed.”

About the bomb blast at Kocha Risaldar in Peshawar, the chief minister said that prior to proper investigation and report, it would be too early to nominate anyone in the heinous crime.

It may be added that a week ago a car bomb blast at Kocha Risaldar , a congested area of Peshawar city, killed more than 40 persons and left about 100 injured. He said that in this connection investigations were continuing and help was also sought from the centre.

The chief minister expressed his hope that elements involved in it would be exposed to the public soon.

About the operation against the banned religious outfits, he said that at the moment the federal government had not informed the provincial government and “if we are informed, then we will also initiate operation against them like in Kashmir and Punjab.”

The chief minister said that his party believed in political reconciliation and mutual understanding because the country in general and the province in particular was passing through trying times.

He suggested that the PML-N would be welcomed to join the provincial cabinet.