In an exclusive talk here Sunday, Syed Mehdi Shah said PPP has won the election on the basis of its performance and services delivered by the PPP leadership including the introduction of Self-governance Order-2009, and economic package for the welfare of the people.
He said PPP had always served the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and that was why the people of the area have reposed confidence and cast their votes in favour of the PPP candidates in the election.
He reminded PPP had also won eight seats in 2004 elections and PML-Q secured only five seats and PPP was not allowed to form a government and PML-Q which was in power at the federal level formed its government in GB with minority seats.
Mehdi Shah thanked President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani and Information Minister and Acting Governor Gilgit-Baltistan, Qamar Zaman Kaira for their efforts to the welfare of the people and introducing the Self-governance Order-2009 for the political and economic empowerment.
He said prior to the elections, he toured seven districts as President of the PPP where the people warmly welcomed him and added PPP has won 12 seats and enjoys majority with a position to form its government in the GB.
However, he said PPP would take along its partners and other political parties for the promotion of peace, harmony and development in the area.
Replying to a question, he said the elections were held in a free, fair and transparent manner and rigging charges are baseless.
Mehdi Shah said people of the area could be better served through investment in social and infrastructure sectors with ultimate purpose of creating job opportunities and raising their living standard.
He accused the MQM for creating law and order situation in his constituency during the polling process.
Answering another question, he said efforts would also be made for the promotion of tourism sector and in this regard he particularly mentioned announcement made by Prime Minister for awarding international standard to airports at Gilgit and Skardu.He said during the elections, he and workers of PPP fully observed the code of conduct in the constituency which resulted the peaceful holding of the elections.Mehdi Shah said the GB Assembly is likely to hold its first session after Eid ul Azha to complete the entire process including election of Chief Minister, Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

APP