PM Kakar says situation at borders won't delay elections
Pakistan
Kakar reaffirms commitment to ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted electoral process
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – In a bid to end all uncertainty surrounding the upcoming general elections, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar asserted on Saturday that there is no possibility of postponement due to security concerns along Pakistan's borders.
In an interview with Voice of America (Urdu) before departing for a United Nations meeting in New York, the caretaker prime minister expressed confidence in overcoming security threats along the country's borders and ensuring the completion of the electoral process.
While addressing certain rumors, Kakar emphasised that it fell within the mandate of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to announce the date for the general elections, expressing hope that the ECP would conduct the process with integrity, as it had already initiated certain steps in this regard.
Kakar stated that the interim government was fully prepared to assist the ECP by providing financial resources and security for the elections.
Regarding past delays in elections in two provinces, the prime minister noted that there might have been specific issues during that period that were acknowledged by various forums.
Kakar reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted electoral process, emphasising his dedication to upholding the democratic process in Pakistan.
In response to a question, Kakar reiterated Pakistan's commitment to raising the issue of the Indian Illegally Occupied and Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) at global and regional fora, citing it as the oldest and unresolved agenda item of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He emphasised Pakistan's consistent advocacy for the Kashmir issue at various multilateral and regional platforms, pledging to continue until its resolution.
Kakar also highlighted gross human rights violations in IIOJK, describing the area as the world's largest prison, with the voices of Kashmiris silenced.
Asked about freedom of expression in the country, PM Kakar stated that media enjoyed freedom and could address government-related issues, institutions, or economic matters without restraint.
Regarding legal cases involving the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Kakar strongly denied any efforts to keep him out of politics, emphasising that the matter was sub-judice due to allegations against the PTI chief. He expressed hope for a transparent judicial process.
In response to another question, the PM clarified that the caretaker government operated within the framework of the ongoing constitutional process, with his nomination coming from the former leader of the house and the opposition in the National Assembly.
He firmly rejected the notion that the interim government was a continuation of the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government.
Kakar underscored Pakistan's role in promoting lasting peace in Afghanistan and the region, highlighting engagement with the Taliban and the international community in relevant forums. He mentioned the Taliban's commitment under the Doha agreement not to use Afghan soil for terrorism against any country.
Regarding terrorist attacks from Afghan soil, Kakar affirmed Pakistan's right to defend against any terrorist activity and its readiness to take necessary measures to protect its people and land.
To a question about his statement concerning the weapons left behind by the US and NATO in Afghanistan falling into the hands of terrorist outfits, PM Kakar clarified that his intention was not to level allegations against the US or any other country. He said that the impression in this regard was incorrect.
Lastly, the prime minister played down Islamabad's isolation, highlighting Pakistan's strong relations with Arab, Gulf, and other regional countries. He expressed optimism about further strengthening decades-long relationships with Western nations in the coming years.
