PM Kakar: all registered parties welcome to participate in polls

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Anwaarul Haq Kakar affirmed on Friday that despite varying political opinions on the upcoming general election, the caretaker government is committed to conducting polls promptly once the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announces the schedule.

According to Dawn.com, PM Kakar, while talking to the media, highlighted the caretaker government’s mandate, ensuring a fair playing field for all political parties, allowing each registered party with the ECP to submit nomination papers for their candidates.

When questioned about the potential return of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, PM Kakar assured that all actions would be carried out within the boundaries of the law.

Furthermore, the PM expressed Pakistan’s aspiration to foster a ‘healthy’ relationship with Afghanistan. He advocated for cross-border movement aligned with globally accepted principles for visas and passports, aiming to transition from the current strained relationship to a more robust one.

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Discussing the issue of Afghan nationals, PM Kakar acknowledged that while not all were involved in adverse activities, a fraction posed challenges related to social issues, crime, and militancy. He emphasised the state’s commitment to addressing these challenges in the interest of Pakistan.

Regarding the policy on illegal Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan, PM Kakar clarified that the objective was to repatriate those staying unlawfully, not to sever ties with Afghanistan. He mentioned the absence of these illegal Afghan nationals in any database, presenting a challenge for Pakistan.

PM Kakar also disclosed that provinces had shared their challenges in dealing with illegal Afghan nationals with the federal government. A rationalised policy would be implemented to ensure a collaborative effort between provinces and the federal government for effective execution.