PESHAWAR, May 2: PPP (Sherpao Group) President Sikandar Hayat Khan Sherpao has asked the political parties to accept verdict of the masses in the presidential referendum, says a statement.

He opined that the overwhelming mandate mustered by Gen Musharraf should take a positive turn in future politics. It would not be advisable to repeat the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ for polarization of the situation. “ And hence vital matters like revival of economy, provincial autonomy and strengthening of democratic institutions should be given priority over petty personal interests”, he added.

PPP leader stated that Gen Musharraf would certainly utilize his energies to shape up the ‘Reform Agenda’ into a real vision. The PPP leader stressed for a fair treatment to all political parties in order to bring about harmony.

After the referendum, he said, propaganda to defame each other in public eyes should be avoided. The political parties, he suggested, should exhibit political acumen and remain ready for October polls.

He expressed the hope that this time political parties should encourage issue-based politics in the ensuing general elections that would end the present chaos in the country.

He said that keeping in view the volatile situation of the country the practice of ‘criticism for the sake of criticism’ should be replaced with the healthy one. “ Negative attitude is not going to serve national interests rather it will harm them”, he added.

Mr Sherpao said this was high time to say no to the politics of confrontation and launch concerted efforts for bringing political and economic stability in the country. In prevailing circumstances Pakistan was at the crossroad due to external and internal problems, and we should not repeat blunders of the past, he added.

Mr Musharraf would fulfil his promise with the nation and act wisely to transform the political and economic reforms into reality that would help country enter a new era of prosperity.

“ The smaller federating units have extended all-out support to the referendum, and the regime should initiate effective measures to remove their grievances”, he concluded.