Focus on resolving problems of people: Zardari tells new PM

Jun 23, 2012 |

Islamabad

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Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari directed the new premier Raja Parvez Ashraf, to focus on resolving the problems of the people, including a crippling power shortage that has triggered violent protests.

Zardari called on the new premier to give "foremost attention" to addressing the problems of the people. He said the power shortage should be addressed on a priority basis.

Zardari identified inflation, unemployment and law and order as other issues of "great concern" to the people. "I am confident that the new government headed by Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf will address all these issues with zeal and determination," the President said.

Zardari began his speech by addressing Gilani. "I also want to place on record our deep appreciation for Yousuf Raza Gilani... for upholding the supremacy of the parliament and the Constitution," Zardari said as the gathering gave Gilani a standing ovation.

Congratulating Gilani for all that he did for the people "despite so many difficulties and challenges", Zardari said the former premier had paid a "very high personal price" but "stood firmly to protect the democratic principles, the supremacy of the parliament and of the Constitution".

The ruling Pakistan People's Party and democratic forces will always stand by Gilani, Zardari said. In an apparent reference to the apex court's verdict against Gilani, Zardari said: "The ultimate court is the court of the people, the ultimate verdict is pronounced by history and the people and history will give the verdict sooner than later".

Ashraf, who was elected to the National Assembly from Gujar Khan constituency in Rawalpindi district - both in 2002 and 2008 - served twice in the cabinet of Gilani.

He resigned from Gilani's cabinet in February last year after allegations of corruption in power projects. He returned to the cabinet in April this year when he was appointed Minister for Information Technology. Ashraf's candidature was backed by PML-Q, a major ally of the PPP with more than 50 seats in the National Assembly.

The PPP and its allies, which enjoy slightly more than a simple majority in the 342-member National Assembly or lower house of parliament, faced no problems in the election of Ashraf.

The PPP alone has 124 lawmakers while its allies have 58 seats.

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