KARACHI, Nov 17: A free, fair and transparent election is not expected from the partisan set- up, which is carrying forward the previous government’s programme of subverting the will of the masses through draconian laws and appointment of handpicked people in the provincial governments.

This was declared by leaders of the Pakistan People’s Party Mian Raza Rabbani and Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, who are also leaders of the opposition in the Senate and the Sindh Assembly, respectively.

Mr Rabbani expressed his party’s serious apprehensions regarding the credibility of upcoming general elections, and declared that if the rulers tried to replicate the federal caretaker set-up for the provinces, the PPP would not accept it.

He reiterated his party’s stand that Gen Pervez Musharraf was not acceptable as president with or without uniform. He said the PPP was in touch with other political parties to evolve a consensus on a one-point agenda.

He demanded immediate repeal of Provisional Constitution Order (PCO), restoration of the constitution and lifting of emergency, besides restoration of the judiciary to its Nov 2 position. Actions like curbs on the media and closure of TV channels would lead the country to anarchy, he warned.

Mr Khuhro slammed the Sindh chief minister, ministers and advisers for inducting their favourites in different government departments a few days before the dissolution of the assembly, terming the moves “pre-poll rigging”. He appealed to the Election Commission to take notice of such practices to ensure creation of an environment conducive to a fair and transparent election.

Commenting on the assembly’s performance, Mr Khuhro said it was a long struggle for the opposition to work towards the restoration of democracy and the constitution under the dictatorial environment promoted by the government.

Syed Murad Ali Shah, deputy leader of the opposition in the assembly, said that the Sindh government had failed to provide any relief to the people of Sindh.

MPA Shazia Marri also spoke at the press conference.