Solangi declares the caretaker government’s full readiness  to conduct elections on Feb 8

KARACHI, Feb, 01,2024:  Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, Murtaza Solangi, declared the caretaker government’s full readiness and commitment to conduct general elections on February 8.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Challenges and Roadmap for the New Government,” organized by the Press Information Department in Karachi on Thursday, Minister Solangi emphasized the government’s dedication to adhering to the schedule set by the Election Commission of Pakistan.

In his role as the government’s spokesperson, Solangi reiterated the caretaker government’s unwavering commitment to proceeding with the election process.

Despite acknowledging flaws in the democratic system and electoral procedures, he stressed the importance of continuing the electoral process and addressing crucial national issues such as the economy, foreign policy, local governance, and civil service reforms.

Solangi highlighted that since the formation of the caretaker cabinet on August 17, 2023, the government consistently affirmed its assurance that the elections would take place on the scheduled date of February 8. Addressing concerns about potential delays due to security and weather issues, he referenced past instances, noting that elections were held in 2008 and 2013 despite security challenges and that the 1970 elections occurred in harsh weather conditions.

The minister emphasized the urgency of addressing the country’s challenges, including the need for tax reforms to stabilize the economy. He lamented the paralysis of the local government system mandated by the Constitution after the 18th Constitutional Amendment, pointing out the failure to transfer resources to lower levels.

Solangi underscored the importance of a level playing field in politics, urging political parties to prioritize democracy within their ranks. He expressed the belief that true democracy would flourish when individuals from various social classes could actively participate in elections.

In conclusion, Minister Solangi advocated for a national consensus on key issues, emphasizing the significance of discussing and addressing challenges related to the economy, foreign policy, local governance, and civil service reforms after the upcoming elections. The seminar also featured insights from senior journalists Mehmood Sham, Mazhar Abbas, Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan, Sohail Sangi, and Erum Tanveer.

Director General PID Karachi Erum Tanveer presented sheild to the minister.