KARACHI, June 23: Senior vice-chairman of Pakistan People’s Party Makhdoom Amin Faheem has criticized the amendment to the general elections order 2002, making it mandatory for candidates to the national and provincial assemblies to be graduates.

According to the amendment, a person should not be qualified to be elected or chosen as a member of Majlis-i-Shoora (Parliament) or a provincial assembly unless he is at least a graduate, possessing a bachelor degree in any discipline or an equivalent degree as recognized by the University Grant Commission.

Speaking at a press conference at the Bilawal House on Sunday, where former PML (N) Sindh leader Shah Mohammad Shah announced to join the party, Amin Faheem said that the PPP, in consultation with other allies, would challenge the order in the court.

Terming the condition unjustified he said that it would deprive a large number of candidates from participation in the elections.

In response to questions he said that at present the PPP had no link with the military rulers.

The PPP said alliances were being formed against the PPP but with the support of the masses, who have faith in the leadership of Benazir Bhutto, no alliance could succeed if elections are held in a free and transparent manner.