Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has affirmed that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has not imposed any restrictions on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and has rejected any notion of dismantling it as a political entity.
During an interaction with journalists at Mayo Hospital, PM Kakar stated that the caretaker government is committed to acting within the bounds of legality and the constitution, with no hindrances to political activities in the country.
He emphasized that all registered political parties, both large and small, have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the upcoming elections. PM Kakar also addressed concerns about providing a level playing field and stated that those with apprehensions regarding it have the freedom to express their claims.
Regarding the Palestine issue, PM Kakar mentioned that Pakistan consistently raises the matter at global forums and strongly condemns the recent Israeli aggression in Gaza. He noted that Pakistan co-hosted an emergency session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) with Saudi Arabia to address the issue. He also highlighted the government's stance on the matter during interactions with global leaders, Chinese leadership, and international media. Pakistan will continue to play a role in resolving the issue, and PM Kakar called for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of a humanitarian corridor.
In response to a question, PM Kakar reiterated that the Election Commission of Pakistan is a constitutional body responsible for setting a specific date for general elections. He mentioned that the delimitation process is a constitutional requirement and has been legislated by the previous parliament.
Regarding the repatriation of illegal migrants, PM Kakar explained that they have categorized them into three groups. Registered refugees are being managed in line with international obligations. Foreigners without documentation who have lived in Pakistan for years can return after obtaining valid travel documents and visas. The third category involves identity theft cases, and the government has devised a mechanism to remove them from the database. The government's focus is on regulated movement.
