Govt to abide by SC order on polls: Kakar

ISLAMABAD:

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said on Sunday if the judiciary ordered for holding the general elections in the 90-day constitutional timeframe, the interim government would obey the decision.

During an interview with a private TV channel, Kakar emphasized that the Election Commission of Pakistan would determine the election date, but in the event of a Supreme Court intervention, the government would abide by its ruling."The rule of law is paramount, and until the Supreme Court issues a decision on this matter, we are obligated to act in accordance with the established laws. If the Supreme Court mandates elections within 90 days, we will unquestionably hold the elections. There should be no doubt about our commitment to this," stated the prime minister.

Responding to a query about the government's stance, Kakar added, "It is not our role to interpret the laws at this stage; if the Supreme Court makes a decision, we will accept it."Addressing concerns about inflated electricity bills, Kakar acknowledged that the issue is multifaceted. "We have made these two areas (power tariff and taxation) our top priorities.

This predicament is intricately linked to the conditions imposed by various financial institutions. It may take some time to find a resolution," he explained.Kakar revealed that a few days prior to his nomination as caretaker prime minister, former

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Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif had approached him, conveying that he was being considered for a significant responsibility and should prepare accordingly.

Regarding the escalating terrorist attacks in the country, Kakar attributed the increase to the situation in Afghanistan. He expressed concern about the abandoned weaponry and equipment left behind by the US and its allies in Afghanistan, labeling them a significant threat not only to Pakistan but to the entire region. He stated that these weapons have bolstered the militants, resulting in a surge in attacks. Kakar emphasized that Pakistan's policy necessitates a balance between negotiations and the use of force in dealing with terrorists, depending on the circumstances.

He characterized the violence following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief on May 9 as an attempt to plunge the country into civil unrest, particularly by targeting the army chief and his team. On the subject of India, Kakar stressed the importance of pursuing a resolution for the Kashmir issue.