Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Federal Minister for Railways has accused Peoples Party of involvement in the Iraqi oil-for-food programme scandal adding that after all proves are received the masses will themselves observe where peoples party stand.
Talking to newsmen at the Jeddah airport on Sunday, the Federal Minister said Benazir Bhutto is following the policy of isolating Nawaz Sharif and their recent meetings in London have no role in the country's politics.
Sheikh Rashid said Pakistan Army is a stable institution and keeping the international situation in purview the role of army is highly critical. As far as holding of free elections is concerned previously the polls were held in a transparent manner and it goes for future as well.
He said that though the central leader of the other party (PML-N) is not present in the country but all representatives of the party are present and are practising politics with complete freedom.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Ejaz-ul-Haq and Federal Minister for Welfare Shahbaz Hussain were also present on the occasion.
Sheikh Rashid maintained that Grade 22 officer doesn't brief a Grade 19 officer correctly. He said I want to categorically say that the present set up will complete its tenure and the elections will take place according to the constitution on time and transparent.
A deal is in process between Peoples Party and the government and I am firm on my statement if Benazir Bhutto dismisses this than I will endorse my statement with substantial proof.
He said that I believe that doors to talks should be opened in politics and perceive it to be a nice step towards success. The Federal Minister for Railways observed Pakistan Muslim League (PML) position is much stronger than before and as per constitution President General Pervez Musharraf will secure more votes than before and will re-elect to the office of President.
In the rural as well as the urban areas our position is stronger than before. He said I am pleased at taking the charge of the railways ministry after information. After bailing this sector out of crisis I am in real terms serving the masses.
After Eid I will visit Russia and many agreements are too be inked. The present government has approved development projects worth Rs 44 billion for the development and reform in the railways.
There is a project for linking Pakistan and Afghanistan through rail. Similarly implementation of railways project for linking with the central Asian states is in process.
He maintained for the success of circular railways in Karachi a Japanese offer of Rs 980 billion (is under consideration). It is expected of the Karachi Nazim that important steps will be taken in this regard.
In response to a query, he told completion of construction of a permanent bridge at Run Pathani will take four more months. For the purpose Rs 100 million payment is made to the Frontiers Work Organisation (FWO).
-Online