President Dr Arif Alvi said on Thursday that it is up to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and government to provide a level playing field for the political parties.
Addressing the Margalla Dialogue in Islamabad, the president stated, ‘’There is no doubt about it that the elections will happen on February 8. The government has assured to provide a level playing field.’’
”The constitution does not allow the president to take practical steps to ensure the holding of transparent elections,” he said.
The president said, ‘’The judiciary, administration, and political leaders have agreed to hold elections on time”.
Speaking about the Afghan immigrants, the president said, ‘’The apex committee can review the decision to send the Afghans back to the country. It is difficult to bear the burden of the immigrants due to the economic hardships.’’
‘’Pakistan has openly expressed its stance on the Gaza situation on international platforms,’’ the president said.
President Alvi added, ‘’The completion of the president’s constitutional term is a sign of the stability in the country’’.
‘’I will administer the oath of Nawaz Sharif if he is voted as the country’s premier,’’ he added.
The president urged the need for stability, saying, ‘’The problems of the country can be addressed if the politicians, administration, and establishment work together.’’
Newly-appointed T20I captain Shaheen Shah Afridi vows to uphold team spirit
Pakistan’s newly-appointed T20I captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, vowed on Thursday to uphold the team spirit.
Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), Shaheen said: ”I am honoured and thrilled to lead our national T20 cricket team. Thank you to the Pakistan cricket board and fans for their trust and support”.
He underlined the importance of unity in the team. Our success lies in unity, trust, and relentless effort. We are not just a team; we are a brotherhood, a family. Together, we rise!’’
Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistan national team batter Babar Azam stepped down as the team captain in all formats after the World Cup debacle.
Taking to X, Azam said, “I vividly remember the moment when I received the call from PCB to lead Pakistan in 2019.”
“Over the past four years, I’ve experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan’s pride and respect in the cricket world,” he added.
Babar said: “Reaching the number 1 spot in the white-ball format was a result of the collective efforts of players, coaches, and management but I’d like to express my gratitude to passionate Pakistan cricket fans for their unwavering support during this journey”.
“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It’s a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call,” he said.
