By NNN-APP
Lahore : President General Pervez Musharraf has reiterated his commitment to hold the forthcoming elections in free, fair and transparent manner as per schedule.
Speaking at farewell meeting with members of Punjab Assembly at Chief Minister House here Saturday night, the President said:
“ The politicians, including Benazir Bhutto who are pursuing agitational politics, should do away with it and focus on electioneering so that election could be held in peaceful atmosphere.”
PML President Chaudhery Shujaat Hussain, Governor Punjab Khalid Maqbool, Chief Minister Chaudhery Pervaiz Elahi, members of Punjab Cabinet and members of the provincial assembly from the ruling coalition were also present on the occasion.
The President said that Benazir Bhutto by indulging in agitation is strengthening the impression that she is sure of her party’s defeat in the elections.
Congratulating members of the Punjab assembly on completion of their five-year tenure he said, “It is a historic moment as it is for the first time in the history of the country that assemblies are completing their tenure.”
He said that it is matter of rejoice and satisfaction that transition of power is going to take place in a smooth manner with caretaker government having already been inducted at the centre and in the provinces in the next couple of days to hold elections and transfer power to people’s representatives to be elected in the next elections.
Appreciating performance of the Punjab Government, the President said unprecedented development projects were completed in the province during the last five years.
He said development in all sectors of life including health, education, economy and provision of basic amenities to people including those living in far flung areas, has raised standard of living of masses.
The President, appreciating the services of Chief Minister Chaudhery Pervaiz Elahi for the province, said the development made in the province under his guidance is more than the progress made during 50 years preceding the present government.