KARACHI, Aug 12:Sindh Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim said here on Friday that the Sindh government would ensure free, fair and impartial local bodies elections in Sindh.

He was speaking to consuls-general of various Muslim states at the Chief Minister’s House.

He said elaborate arrangements have been made by the government for holding these elections in a peaceful environment.

The chief minister said all the provincial ministers and advisors have been directed to ensure compliance with the code of conduct as laid down by the Election Commission.

Sindh Minister for Irrigation and Power, Nadir Akmal Leghari, presenting the briefing said that the elections were being conducted under the Sindh Local Government Ordinance (SLGO) with the objective of transferring power to the people. “This will enable them to participate in the development and progress of the country.”

He told the guests that these elections would be held in three phases and women will also contest the polls for 33 per cent of the local council seats.

The minister pointed out that Muslim League has emerged as the biggest party in Sindh after many political groups and parties had come into its fold.

The members of Muslim League and other parties, after setting aside their political status, are also contesting in the elections on non-party basis, he said.

Nadir Leghari informed the consuls-general that strict measures have been taken to establish and maintain law and order before and during the elections and to ensure transparency and fairness.

He denied allegations by the opposition regarding harassment of people by lodging of false FIRs and disturbing the election process.

Chief Minister Arbab Ghulam Rahim and Provincial Minister Nadir Akmal Leghari also invited the consuls-general of Muslim countries to visit the polling stations on the day of elections.

Consuls-general of Afghanistan, Iran, Indonesia, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, U.A.E., Malaysia and Libya and Deputy High Commissioner of Bangladesh attended the briefing.—APP