"We are dedicated to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, offering full support to the Election Commission," Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar stated in an interview with a private news channel. He dismissed any perception of favoritism towards a specific political party, attributing such allegations to customary tactics employed by parties seeking to attract voters.
Kakar also refuted claims of political affiliation for his cabinet member, Fawad Hassan Fawad, highlighting Fawad's competency and non-partisan background. He praised Fawad's performance as Minister for Privatization, expressing confidence in the caretaker government's ability to achieve privatization targets during its tenure.
Regarding the recent depreciation of the rupee against the dollar, the prime minister attributed it to the government's actions, reducing artificial demand for the dollar. He noted the adjustment of the rupee value based on actual demand and supply, expressing satisfaction with the country's stabilized economy and the achieved staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Addressing questions about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Kakar emphasized that the courts would decide on the party's matters, and the caretaker government would adhere to court orders regarding the PTI chairman's participation in the elections.
On the issue of mob violence, Kakar asserted that the state would not permit any group or party to resort to such actions in the country.
Regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, the prime minister conveyed the OIC's unanimous message for a ceasefire, expressing hope for its prompt implementation. He criticized Israel for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, highlighting global protests against these atrocities.
Concerning China-US relations, Kakar emphasized that Pakistan, closely linked to both countries, could not remain isolated or align with a specific bloc. He noted many countries with strong ties to China also maintained positive relations with the US.
On the repatriation of illegal Afghan immigrants, Kakar clarified that there was no external pressure, emphasizing the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. While Afghanistan and Afghans were not considered enemies, the government needed to follow regulations regarding Afghan nationals residing illegally, requiring proper registration with legal documents.
