President Asif Ali Zardari. -File Photo

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the behaviour of Returning Officers (ROs) and the Election Commission (ECP) in the the scrutiny of election candidates was inappropriate, DawnNews reported.

He said that despite Ros and ECP's behaviour he has chosen to stay quiet, so that the caretaker government can facilitate the elections in a credible environment.

President Zardari said the elections will be held on time and that there should be no doubt at all on this issue.

The president met with Governor Sindh Ishratul Ibad Khan and Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (retd) Zahid Qurban Alvi, after which ministers in the provincial caretaker govt also met him.

The president stated during the meeting that he will stay quiet on the ROs and ECP issue, so that the task of the caretaker setup is made easier and democracy in the country is allowed to progress forward.

He said that once the caretaker government has facilitated elections in the country, responsibility will be transferred to the incoming democratically elected government.

After the meeting, Sindh's Caretaker Information Minister Noorul Huda Shah said that instructions have been given to make sure that the elections are held on time.

Shah said that putting police officers on six-hour duty during election day, was also discussed during the meeting.

The provincial Caretaker Finance Minister Shabbar Raza while speaking to DawnNews said that President Zardari approved special budget for the police to provide for security in the province, especially Karachi.

Opinion

Editorial

First steps
Updated 29 May, 2024

First steps

One hopes that this small change will pave the way for bigger things.
Rafah inferno
29 May, 2024

Rafah inferno

THE level of barbarity witnessed in Sunday’s Israeli air strike targeting a refugee camp in Rafah is shocking even...
On a whim
29 May, 2024

On a whim

THE sudden declaration of May 28 as a public holiday to observe Youm-i-Takbeer — the anniversary of Pakistan’s...
Afghan puzzle
Updated 28 May, 2024

Afghan puzzle

Unless these elements are neutralised, it will not be possible to have the upper hand over terrorist groups.
Attacking minorities
28 May, 2024

Attacking minorities

Mobs turn into executioners due to the authorities’ helplessness before these elements.
Persistent scourge
Updated 29 May, 2024

Persistent scourge

THE challenge of polio in Pakistan has reached a new nadir, drawing grave concerns from the Technical Advisory Group...