The chief minister of Sindh is reported to have said that there is no restriction on transfers and postings, if administrative reasons so demand.
Sources said on Friday that caretaker ministers, calling on the chief minister, had argued with him on the issue and convinced him that posting of efficient officials at various places would be in the greater interest of fair and free elections.
They said that officers reputed as corrupt and politically aligned with different political parties should be removed and replaced with honest officers. "The ban imposed by the Election Commission is not a ban as such. It is only a suggestion which does not impose restriction on necessary administrative actions where officers are transferred and posted with honest intentions and in the best interest of the people whom they serve."
The ministers said that there would be no harm if some transfer and posting orders, made and issued by the outgoing ministers were withdrawn to appease the growing political annoyance in the province. "After all, they will be obedient to us as well." In the process, they said, to keep the administrative machinery fully functional, careful handling of transfers and postings was necessary.
Referring to a recent incident where a DIG of Police has been booked for corruption and amassing wealth through illegal means, they said that this matter was being misinterpreted by a political party.
"The officer was involved in corrupt practices. He was under watch by intelligence agencies for a long time. The process took time because collection of evidence was necessary before initiating action against him." Sources said that proposal to temporarily suspend administrative powers of nazims was under consideration, and action would be taken at the appropriate time.