Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Nasirul-ul-Mulk has been named the caretaker prime minister after the announcement of general elections to be held in July.

"No Pakistani can lift a finger (against) such a name," Abbasi told reporters, seated next to opposition leader Syed Khurshid Ahmed Shah.

Pakistan president's office had said on Sunday that general elections would be held in the country&nbsp;on July 25th.

The country faced a tumultuous last 12 months with Nawaz Sharif forced to step down as prime minister after the Supreme Court implicated him in corruption cases.

After Sharif's ouster, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi who belongs to Sharif's PML(N) was made the prime minister.

Earlier, A Pakistan court had disqualified Khawaja Asif for violating the country's election laws.

Nasir–ul–Mulk was the 22nd Chief Justice of Pakistan. He had also served as the acting&nbsp;chief election commissioner of Pakistan.

Nasir–ul–Mulk was the 22nd Chief Justice of Pakistan. He had also served as the acting chief election commissioner of Pakistan.

Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Nasirul-ul-Mulk has been named the caretaker prime minister after the announcement of general elections to be held in July. "No Pakistani can lift a finger (against) such a name," Abbasi told reporters, seated next to opposition leader Syed Khurshid Ahmed Shah. Pakistan president's office had said on Sunday that general elections would be held in the country on July 25th. The country faced a tumultuous last 12 months with Nawaz Sharif forced to step down as prime minister after the Supreme Court implicated him in corruption cases. After Sharif's ouster, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi who belongs to Sharif's PML(N) was made the prime minister. Earlier, A Pakistan court had disqualified Khawaja Asif for violating the country's election laws. Nasir–ul–Mulk was the 22nd Chief Justice of Pakistan. He had also served as the acting chief election commissioner of Pakistan.

Ex-Chief Justice of Pakistan Nasirul Mulk to be caretaker PM

Marking his return to electoral politics after a gap of 24 years, former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday said that he would contest for a National Assembly seat in the upcoming general elections.

Zardari, 62, said that he will contest from his native town Nawabshah.&nbsp

The Pakistan People's Party co-chairman made the announcement during an Iftar party hosted by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the Chief Minister's House in Karachi

&nbspHe has been elected as Member of National Assembly from Karachi's area of Lyari in 1990, and from Nawabshah in 1993.

Zardari said he could have chosen Lyari as his electoral constituency but later decided in favour of the constituency from his native town.&nbsp

He also predicted that no party will hold the majority in the next assembly.

Zardari, husband of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, served as the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013.&nbsp

Zardari, 62, said that he will contest from his native town Nawabshah

Marking his return to electoral politics after a gap of 24 years, former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday said that he would contest for a National Assembly seat in the upcoming general elections. Zardari, 62, said that he will contest from his native town Nawabshah. The Pakistan People's Party co-chairman made the announcement during an Iftar party hosted by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the Chief Minister's House in Karachi &nbspHe has been elected as Member of National Assembly from Karachi's area of Lyari in 1990, and from Nawabshah in 1993. Zardari said he could have chosen Lyari as his electoral constituency but later decided in favour of the constituency from his native town. He also predicted that no party will hold the majority in the next assembly. Zardari, husband of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, served as the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013.

Former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari says will contest general election

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-death-toll-from-nipah-virus-rises-to-14-140144">Kerala: Death toll from Nipah virus rises to 14</a>

The death toll from the deadly Nipah virus on Sunday rose to 14 in Kerala after one more death was reported in&nbspKozhikode. Most of the deaths reported are from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-kairana-bypoll-is-a-key-player-in-the-run-up-to-2019-ls-polls-140093">Why Kairana by-poll is a key player in the run-up to 2019 Lok Sabha polls</a>

Kairana constituency in the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh has virtually assumed the dimension of a strategic player in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-bypoll-keen-contest-on-cards-in-2-lok-sabha-seats-tomorrow-140117">Maharashtra by-poll: </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-bypoll-keen-contest-on-cards-in-2-lok-sabha-seats-tomorrow-140117">Keen</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-bypoll-keen-contest-on-cards-in-2-lok-sabha-seats-tomorrow-140117"> contest on cards in 2 Lok Sabha seats tomorrow</a>

The by-elections to Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held on May 28 for which all four major parties have pulled out all stops as the outcome is likely to have a bearing on their future course.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-shahid-abbasi-inaugurates-1st-section-of-cpecs-superhighway-140120">Pakistan PM Shahid Abbasi inaugurates 1st section of CPEC's superhighway</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Shadid Abbasi on Saturday inaugurated the first section of the 392-km Multan-Sukkur Motorway, which is the largest transportation infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-refutes-reports-saying-its-seeking-economic-help-from-us--140112">North Korea refutes reports saying it's seeking economic help from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-refutes-reports-saying-its-seeking-economic-help-from-us--140112">US</a>

North Korea on Sunday disputed reports which said that North Korea is seeking economic assistance from the United States in exchange for complete denuclearisation.&nbsp

Kerala: Death toll from Nipah virus rises to 14 The death toll from the deadly Nipah virus on Sunday rose to 14 in Kerala after one more death was reported in&nbspKozhikode. Most of the deaths reported are from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. Why Kairana by-poll is a key player in the run-up to 2019 Lok Sabha polls Kairana constituency in the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh has virtually assumed the dimension of a strategic player in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Maharashtra by-poll: Keen contest on cards in 2 Lok Sabha seats tomorrow The by-elections to Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held on May 28 for which all four major parties have pulled out all stops as the outcome is likely to have a bearing on their future course. Pakistan PM Shahid Abbasi inaugurates 1st section of CPEC's superhighway Pakistan Prime Minister Shadid Abbasi on Saturday inaugurated the first section of the 392-km Multan-Sukkur Motorway, which is the largest transportation infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). North Korea refutes reports saying it's seeking economic help from US North Korea on Sunday disputed reports which said that North Korea is seeking economic assistance from the United States in exchange for complete denuclearisation.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government.

The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days.&nbsp

The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM .

The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name.

He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM.

The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee.

If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister. According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government. The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days. The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM . The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name. He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM. The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee. If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

Pakistan political parties fail to appoint caretaker PM

Since its birth in 1947, Pakistan has witnessed years of political instability and violence. Religious bigotry, extremism, and sectarianism have always threatened to shake the very foundations of a country which was carved out in the name of Islam.&nbsp;

The vagaries of democracy and hiccups in initial years ensured domination of military in Pakistan. Since independence from Britain in 1947, civilian rule has been repeatedly overturned by military coups.

Pakistan has spent more than 30 years under military rule (1958-1971, 1977-1988, 1999-2008). There have also been numerous unsuccessful military coup attempts since 1951.

The general elections in 2013 were historic because, for the first time, a civilian government (from 2008 to 2013) was able to serve its full term without being toppled by the military or brought down by any crisis.&nbsp;

Until 2013, Pakistan did not experience even one democratic transfer of power from one democratically elected government that had completed its tenure to another.

All of its previous democratic transitions have been aborted by a military coup.&nbsp;The elections were won by Nawaz Sharif and his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

Election process

Pakistan follows the Westminster first-past-the-post system. There are 342 seats in the National Assembly (or lower house) - the House of the People in the bicameral parliamentary system.

Out of these, 70 seats are reserved for women and non-Muslims and are allocated to parties according to their performance in polls.

To have a majority in the 342-member National Assembly, a party or coalition would need 172 seats or 50% plus one.

Results of Pakistani general election 2013

Four political parties emerged as the major players in 2013 elections

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Name of the political party&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Number of seats won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz - PML(N)</td>
			<td>166</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)</td>
			<td>42</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Imran Khan led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)</td>
			<td>35</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Altaf Hussain's Muttahida Qaumi Movement</td>
			<td>24</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Others</td>
			<td>75</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Total</td>
			<td>342&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, overall voter turnout in the 2013 general elections was recorded at 55.02% - much higher than elections since the 80s.&nbsp;

In 2013 over 46.2 million people exercised their right to vote in the elections.

The PML-N got the majority of votes (14.8 million) followed by the PTI (7.5 million), the PPP (6.8 million) and the MQM (2.4 million).&nbsp;

Independent candidates picked up 5.8 million votes.&nbsp;

Political and sectarian violence overshadowed the 2013 elections, leaving more than 130 people dead and scores more wounded.

Out of these, 70 seats are reserved for women and non-Muslims and are allocated to parties according to their performance in polls.

Since its birth in 1947, Pakistan has witnessed years of political instability and violence. Religious bigotry, extremism, and sectarianism have always threatened to shake the very foundations of a country which was carved out in the name of Islam. The vagaries of democracy and hiccups in initial years ensured domination of military in Pakistan. Since independence from Britain in 1947, civilian rule has been repeatedly overturned by military coups. Pakistan has spent more than 30 years under military rule (1958-1971, 1977-1988, 1999-2008). There have also been numerous unsuccessful military coup attempts since 1951. The general elections in 2013 were historic because, for the first time, a civilian government (from 2008 to 2013) was able to serve its full term without being toppled by the military or brought down by any crisis. Until 2013, Pakistan did not experience even one democratic transfer of power from one democratically elected government that had completed its tenure to another. All of its previous democratic transitions have been aborted by a military coup. The elections were won by Nawaz Sharif and his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. Election process Pakistan follows the Westminster first-past-the-post system. There are 342 seats in the National Assembly (or lower house) - the House of the People in the bicameral parliamentary system. Out of these, 70 seats are reserved for women and non-Muslims and are allocated to parties according to their performance in polls. To have a majority in the 342-member National Assembly, a party or coalition would need 172 seats or 50% plus one. Results of Pakistani general election 2013 Four political parties emerged as the major players in 2013 elections Name of the political party Number of seats won Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz - PML(N) 166 Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) 42 Imran Khan led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) 35 Altaf Hussain's Muttahida Qaumi Movement 24 Others 75 Total 342 According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, overall voter turnout in the 2013 general elections was recorded at 55.02% - much higher than elections since the 80s. In 2013 over 46.2 million people exercised their right to vote in the elections. The PML-N got the majority of votes (14.8 million) followed by the PTI (7.5 million), the PPP (6.8 million) and the MQM (2.4 million). Independent candidates picked up 5.8 million votes. Political and sectarian violence overshadowed the 2013 elections, leaving more than 130 people dead and scores more wounded.

Pakistan elections: When the Islamic Republic witnessed first transfer of power

Two major political parties Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Peoples Political Party have geared up for the upcoming Pakistan assembly elections.

As reported by the Dawn, the leaders of both PTI and PPP, Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto respectively will address separate rallies at different venues.

PPP will hold their meetings at -e-Jinnah near the Quaid's Mausoleum, where the party has arranged 40,000 seats.

Before the scheduled rally, the ruling PPP decorated various areas of Karachi with flags, banners and posters with photos of Bilawal.

Further, a large number of youth volunteers have gathered at the location to facilitate the management of the upcoming rally. The government has also arranged for 2,000 policemen to be deployed for the security of the rally.

As per a party worker, PPP is holding the event to pay a tribute to 14 workers and activists of the party were martyred on May 12, 2007

On the other hand, the PTI will hold a rally near Aladin Park in Gulshan-e-Iqbal.

PTI Chairperson Imran Khan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Parvez Khattak, Fawad Chaudhry and Shah Mehmood Qureshi will address the gathering and pay tribute to the May 12 martyrs.

Earlier on Monday, there were instances of severe clashes between the PTI and PPP workers over the use of Hakim Said ground to hold rallies today.

Later the local police had apprehended at least 10 workers belonging to both parties in connection with the clash.

Bhutto had then condemned the attacks and urged its party workers to find another location to hold rallies while allowing the PTI to use the Hakim Said ground.

Though later the PTI also refused to use the Hakim Said ground to conduct the rally.

On a related note, Pakistan is scheduled to undergo the assembly elections in July.&nbsp

As reported by the Dawn, the leaders of both PTI and PPP, Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto respectively will address separate rallies at different venues

Two major political parties Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Peoples Political Party have geared up for the upcoming Pakistan assembly elections. As reported by the Dawn, the leaders of both PTI and PPP, Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto respectively will address separate rallies at different venues. PPP will hold their meetings at -e-Jinnah near the Quaid's Mausoleum, where the party has arranged 40,000 seats. Before the scheduled rally, the ruling PPP decorated various areas of Karachi with flags, banners and posters with photos of Bilawal. Further, a large number of youth volunteers have gathered at the location to facilitate the management of the upcoming rally. The government has also arranged for 2,000 policemen to be deployed for the security of the rally. As per a party worker, PPP is holding the event to pay a tribute to 14 workers and activists of the party were martyred on May 12, 2007 On the other hand, the PTI will hold a rally near Aladin Park in Gulshan-e-Iqbal. PTI Chairperson Imran Khan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Parvez Khattak, Fawad Chaudhry and Shah Mehmood Qureshi will address the gathering and pay tribute to the May 12 martyrs. Earlier on Monday, there were instances of severe clashes between the PTI and PPP workers over the use of Hakim Said ground to hold rallies today. Later the local police had apprehended at least 10 workers belonging to both parties in connection with the clash. Bhutto had then condemned the attacks and urged its party workers to find another location to hold rallies while allowing the PTI to use the Hakim Said ground. Though later the PTI also refused to use the Hakim Said ground to conduct the rally. On a related note, Pakistan is scheduled to undergo the assembly elections in July.

PTI, PPP to hold rallies prior to upcoming elections

Pakistan's Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal underwent two successful consecutive surgeries&nbspon Monday after being shot in an apparent assassination bid by a religious fanatic during an election rally in Punjab province, as another suspect has been taken into custody.

Iqbal, 59, a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, was hit by the bullet on his right shoulder in the attack on Sunday.

An official at the Services Hospital here said that the surgery was successful and Iqbal is recovering well.

"Iqbal is out of danger and recovering fast," he added.

Iqbal underwent two consecutive surgeries and has now been shifted to the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital.

"The abdominal laparoscopy of Iqbal has been performed. Bullet has not breached peritoneum and all intra-abdominal organs are intact. No expanding hematoma. Decision not to remove the bullet from his abdomen has been taken by the group of senior doctors considering that it may lead to more tissue damage," the official of the hospital where the procedure was performed said.&nbsp

He said the bullet had also penetrated the right elbow joint of the minister.&nbsp

Meanwhile, police have booked suspect Abdi Hussain, 21, under attempted murder and terrorism charges of Pakistan Penal Code and Anti-Terrorism Act. Azeem, an accomplice of Hussain, who reached the rally along with him has also been arrested.

Iqbal was leaving a venue after addressing the election rally in his hometown Narowal, some 80 kms from Lahore on Sunday at 6.15pm when Hussain opened fire at him, injuring his arm and abdomen.&nbsp

Narowal senior police officer Imran Kishwar said the suspect could not get a chance to open second fire on the minister.&nbsp

"The moment Hussain opened the fire on the interior minister the PML-N workers present there grabbed him," he said.&nbsp

Hussain belongs to the religious outfit - Tehreek-e-Labbaik Yarasoolallah Pakistan (TLYP), according to preliminary investigation.

"The suspect who opened fire on the interior minister belongs to the TLYP. We know the motive of this attack but I want to tell that this is a very dangerous game being played against the PML-N," Information Minister Marrium Aurengzeb said. Talking to reporters she said "this politics of hatred" should be stopped now.

A senior police officer said that the suspect told investigators that he opened fire on the minister to take revenge on the ruling PML-N for trying to delete the clause related to the Khatm-e-Nabuwat (the finality of Prophet Muhammad) from the Constitution.&nbsp

"The suspect belongs to a religious family and a worker of the TLYP," he said.

Today, he said Hussain had made a confessional statement saying "he acted alone because his religious sentiments were hurt by the PML-N government's decision.

A couple of months ago Iqbal had also faced a shoe-attack in his hometown. However, the shoe-attacker was arrested and later freed after Iqbal pardoned him.&nbsp

The suspect then claimed that he hurled the shoe at him because he was not happy with the PML-N government to change the clause from the Constitution related to the finality of the Prophet.

PML-N federal ministers Khwaja Saad Rafique and Talal Chaudhry have expressed their fear that the attack could be a conspiracy to delay election or stop the PML-N from taking part in upcoming general election.

Iqbal, 59, a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, was hit by the bullet on his right shoulder in the attack on Sunday

Pakistan's Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal underwent two successful consecutive surgeries&nbspon Monday after being shot in an apparent assassination bid by a religious fanatic during an election rally in Punjab province, as another suspect has been taken into custody. Iqbal, 59, a senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, was hit by the bullet on his right shoulder in the attack on Sunday. An official at the Services Hospital here said that the surgery was successful and Iqbal is recovering well. "Iqbal is out of danger and recovering fast," he added. Iqbal underwent two consecutive surgeries and has now been shifted to the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital. "The abdominal laparoscopy of Iqbal has been performed. Bullet has not breached peritoneum and all intra-abdominal organs are intact. No expanding hematoma. Decision not to remove the bullet from his abdomen has been taken by the group of senior doctors considering that it may lead to more tissue damage," the official of the hospital where the procedure was performed said. He said the bullet had also penetrated the right elbow joint of the minister. Meanwhile, police have booked suspect Abdi Hussain, 21, under attempted murder and terrorism charges of Pakistan Penal Code and Anti-Terrorism Act. Azeem, an accomplice of Hussain, who reached the rally along with him has also been arrested. Iqbal was leaving a venue after addressing the election rally in his hometown Narowal, some 80 kms from Lahore on Sunday at 6.15pm when Hussain opened fire at him, injuring his arm and abdomen. Narowal senior police officer Imran Kishwar said the suspect could not get a chance to open second fire on the minister. "The moment Hussain opened the fire on the interior minister the PML-N workers present there grabbed him," he said. Hussain belongs to the religious outfit - Tehreek-e-Labbaik Yarasoolallah Pakistan (TLYP), according to preliminary investigation. "The suspect who opened fire on the interior minister belongs to the TLYP. We know the motive of this attack but I want to tell that this is a very dangerous game being played against the PML-N," Information Minister Marrium Aurengzeb said. Talking to reporters she said "this politics of hatred" should be stopped now. A senior police officer said that the suspect told investigators that he opened fire on the minister to take revenge on the ruling PML-N for trying to delete the clause related to the Khatm-e-Nabuwat (the finality of Prophet Muhammad) from the Constitution. "The suspect belongs to a religious family and a worker of the TLYP," he said. Today, he said Hussain had made a confessional statement saying "he acted alone because his religious sentiments were hurt by the PML-N government's decision. A couple of months ago Iqbal had also faced a shoe-attack in his hometown. However, the shoe-attacker was arrested and later freed after Iqbal pardoned him. The suspect then claimed that he hurled the shoe at him because he was not happy with the PML-N government to change the clause from the Constitution related to the finality of the Prophet. PML-N federal ministers Khwaja Saad Rafique and Talal Chaudhry have expressed their fear that the attack could be a conspiracy to delay election or stop the PML-N from taking part in upcoming general election.

Pakistan minister undergoes surgery after assassination attempt; another suspect arrested

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said the upcoming general elections would be conducted by "aliens", triggering a sharp reaction from the Election Commission which advised him to stay away from making "irresponsible statements", according to a media report.

The remarks indicate that the government is not expecting the upcoming elections to be transparent. The term 'aliens' has probably been coined for the first time in place of 'angels' and 'invisible forces' used in the past, Pak News reported.

Abbasi's words about "aliens holding election" echoed the remarks made by ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif two days ago: "Our contest is not with Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman Imran Khan but with the aliens".

"Elections will be held by aliens, but even then we [Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz] will participate in it," the prime minister said in an informal chat with journalists during a reception hosted by Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq for members of the lower house.

His comments drew a sharp reaction from the Election Commission.

ECP spokesman Altaf Khan said that the commission was fully prepared to hold the elections in line with its mandate under Article 218 of the Constitution. Under the Constitution and the Elections Act 2017, the ECP was fully independent in discharge of its legal and constitutional duties, he added.

Khan said people occupying important office should desist from making such "irresponsible statements", adding that such statements were merely based on assumptions and rumours and amounted to ridiculing the Constitution, the report said.

The remarks indicate that the government is not expecting the upcoming elections to be transparent. The term 'aliens' has probably been coined for the first time in place of 'angels' and 'invisible forces' used in the past, Pak News reported

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has said the upcoming general elections would be conducted by "aliens", triggering a sharp reaction from the Election Commission which advised him to stay away from making "irresponsible statements", according to a media report. The remarks indicate that the government is not expecting the upcoming elections to be transparent. The term 'aliens' has probably been coined for the first time in place of 'angels' and 'invisible forces' used in the past, Pak News reported. Abbasi's words about "aliens holding election" echoed the remarks made by ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif two days ago: "Our contest is not with Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman Imran Khan but with the aliens". "Elections will be held by aliens, but even then we [Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz] will participate in it," the prime minister said in an informal chat with journalists during a reception hosted by Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq for members of the lower house. His comments drew a sharp reaction from the Election Commission. ECP spokesman Altaf Khan said that the commission was fully prepared to hold the elections in line with its mandate under Article 218 of the Constitution. Under the Constitution and the Elections Act 2017, the ECP was fully independent in discharge of its legal and constitutional duties, he added. Khan said people occupying important office should desist from making such "irresponsible statements", adding that such statements were merely based on assumptions and rumours and amounted to ridiculing the Constitution, the report said.

Pakistan prime minister says polls will be conducted by aliens

A Pakistani political party placed on the US&nbsp;list of foreign terrorist organisations vowed on Wednesday to continue its political activities and participate in upcoming elections.

The Milli Muslim League (MML) is controlled by Islamist leader Hafiz Saeed, who has a $10 million U.S. bounty on his head. The group shot to prominence after fielding a candidate in a September 2017 by-election to fill a seat vacated by deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The US State Department on Tuesday termed MML an alias for militant organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), or Army of the Pure, blamed for a bloody 2008 attack in India.

"We clearly state that on US&nbsp;announcements we will not discontinue our political activities at any cost," MML president Saifullah Khalid said, reading from a statement in Karachi.

"Milli Muslim League will fully participate in the 2018 elections and will field candidates from across Pakistan."

Saeed is the founder of LeT, which is also on the U.S. terrorist list and blamed by the United States and India for a four-day militant attack on Mumbai in 2008 in which 166 people were killed.

Saeed has repeatedly denied involvement in the attack.

Images of Saeed appeared on MML campaign posters during rallies held in two major Pakistani cities leading up to by-elections last year.

The party was subsequently barred from participating in polls by Pakistan's electoral commission, a decision that was overturned by the courts.

"We have confidence in our higher judiciary ... MML will be registered and it will emerge as a big national party in future," Khalid said.

Khalid termed the U.S. decision a violation of basic human rights and an open intervention in Pakistan's internal affairs, asking for the State Department to bring evidence before the courts.

"Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The United States supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence," the U.S. State Department said in a statement.

Under pressure from the United States, the United Nations and international institutions to crack down on terrorist financing, Pakistan drew up secret plans last December for a "takeover" of charities linked to Saeed.

Saeed has since taken the government decision to court.

Saeed's freedom in Pakistan, where he holds rallies, has been a thorn in Pakistan’s relations with old rival India and the United States.

The US State Department on Tuesday termed MML an alias for militant organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), or Army of the Pure, blamed for a bloody 2008 attack in India.

A Pakistani political party placed on the US list of foreign terrorist organisations vowed on Wednesday to continue its political activities and participate in upcoming elections. The Milli Muslim League (MML) is controlled by Islamist leader Hafiz Saeed, who has a $10 million U.S. bounty on his head. The group shot to prominence after fielding a candidate in a September 2017 by-election to fill a seat vacated by deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif. The US State Department on Tuesday termed MML an alias for militant organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), or Army of the Pure, blamed for a bloody 2008 attack in India. "We clearly state that on US announcements we will not discontinue our political activities at any cost," MML president Saifullah Khalid said, reading from a statement in Karachi. "Milli Muslim League will fully participate in the 2018 elections and will field candidates from across Pakistan." Saeed is the founder of LeT, which is also on the U.S. terrorist list and blamed by the United States and India for a four-day militant attack on Mumbai in 2008 in which 166 people were killed. Saeed has repeatedly denied involvement in the attack. Images of Saeed appeared on MML campaign posters during rallies held in two major Pakistani cities leading up to by-elections last year. The party was subsequently barred from participating in polls by Pakistan's electoral commission, a decision that was overturned by the courts. "We have confidence in our higher judiciary ... MML will be registered and it will emerge as a big national party in future," Khalid said. Khalid termed the U.S. decision a violation of basic human rights and an open intervention in Pakistan's internal affairs, asking for the State Department to bring evidence before the courts. "Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The United States supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence," the U.S. State Department said in a statement. Under pressure from the United States, the United Nations and international institutions to crack down on terrorist financing, Pakistan drew up secret plans last December for a "takeover" of charities linked to Saeed. Saeed has since taken the government decision to court. Saeed's freedom in Pakistan, where he holds rallies, has been a thorn in Pakistan’s relations with old rival India and the United States.

Hafiz Saeed's MML, designated 'terror group' by US, vows to fight Pak elections

Pakistan&#39;s parliament will meet on Tuesday to elect a new prime minister after the Supreme Court disqualified Nawaz Sharif following an investigation into corruption allegations against his family.

The ruling party named Sharif&#39;s younger brother Shahbaz as his successor over the weekend, but he must first enter Parliament by contesting the seat left vacant by Sharif.

In the meantime, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which enjoys a majority in Parliament, has nominated ex-oil minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi as interim prime minister.&nbsp;

The top court ousted Sharif Friday after an investigation into corruption allegations against him and his family, bringing his historic third term in power to an unceremonious end.

&quot;The nomination papers --- shall be delivered to the Secretary, National Assembly by 2.00 pm, on Monday,&quot; said a notification by the National Assembly Secretariat and seen by AFP.&nbsp;

It said the assembly would meet at 3:00 pm Tuesday (1000 GMT) for the &quot;election of the Prime Minister&quot;.

The younger Sharif -- who is chief minister of the country&#39;s most populous province of Punjab -- has so far been unscathed by the corruption allegations engulfing his brother&#39;s family.&nbsp;

However he only holds only a provincial seat and therefore must be elected to the national assembly before becoming prime minister.

On Saturday the Election Commission said fresh elections would be held in Nawaz Sharif&#39;s former constituency, in the family&#39;s power base in Punjab, in a process that could take up to 45 days.&nbsp;

Abbasi is set to be rubber-stamped as placeholder in the parliamentary vote.

The opposition could also field a candidate but has little chance of securing enough votes in the 342-seat house.

Shahbaz Sharif, nominated by the ruling party as Nawaz Sharif's successor, must first enter Parliament by contesting the seat left vacant by Nawaz Sharif

Pakistan's parliament will meet on Tuesday to elect a new prime minister after the Supreme Court disqualified Nawaz Sharif following an investigation into corruption allegations against his family. The ruling party named Sharif's younger brother Shahbaz as his successor over the weekend, but he must first enter Parliament by contesting the seat left vacant by Sharif. In the meantime, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which enjoys a majority in Parliament, has nominated ex-oil minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi as interim prime minister. The top court ousted Sharif Friday after an investigation into corruption allegations against him and his family, bringing his historic third term in power to an unceremonious end. "The nomination papers --- shall be delivered to the Secretary, National Assembly by 2.00 pm, on Monday," said a notification by the National Assembly Secretariat and seen by AFP. It said the assembly would meet at 3:00 pm Tuesday (1000 GMT) for the "election of the Prime Minister". The younger Sharif -- who is chief minister of the country's most populous province of Punjab -- has so far been unscathed by the corruption allegations engulfing his brother's family. However he only holds only a provincial seat and therefore must be elected to the national assembly before becoming prime minister. On Saturday the Election Commission said fresh elections would be held in Nawaz Sharif's former constituency, in the family's power base in Punjab, in a process that could take up to 45 days. Abbasi is set to be rubber-stamped as placeholder in the parliamentary vote. The opposition could also field a candidate but has little chance of securing enough votes in the 342-seat house.

Pakistan to elect new prime minister on Tuesday, Abbasi set to be rubberstamp placeholder

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