ISLAMABAD: The newly-named caretaker prime minister said that elections would be conducted according to the announced schedule and that fair and free elections were his topmost priority.

Speaking to the media after being selected by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), Justice (retd) Mir Hazar Khan Khoso said “I will try my best to come up to the expectations of people.”

He further said that the cabinet would be sized as per needs.

Talking about security situation in the country, he said that maintenance of law and order was the responsibility of the provinces.

Khoso added that he would maintain relations with all political parties equally and would soon meet political leaders in person.

Prime Minister, Raja Pervez Ashraf,  and former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani congratulated Khoso on his selection.

Moreover, Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) accepted the selection of the new caretaker Prime Minister, even though Khoso’s candidature was presented by the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

Punjab Chief Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said “We welcome the appointment of the new caretaker Prime Minister.”

Pakistan Muslim League Quaid (PML-Q) leader, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and Chaudhry Pervez Elahi also felicitated the care taker prime minister.

Elahi said, ‘The election of the caretaker Prime Minister is a good decision.’