MQM to contest polls from across country: Altaf

LAHORE: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief, Altaf Hussain Saturday said his party would enthusiastically participate in the upcoming general elections from across the country and field candidates from every single constituency in the Punjab.

Addressing via telephone a joint meeting of MQM's central executive and zonal committees in Lahore, and the Rabitta Committee, Altaf Hussain said MQM would continue its struggle for the formation of southern province in Punjab which, he said, has been a longstanding demand of the people living in the southern region of Pakistan's biggest province.

The matters the came under detailed review of the meeting included intensification of efforts for formation of southern Punjab province, re-organization of the party in Punjab, selection of candidates for contesting the general elections and other administrative affairs.

Serious concern was also expressed through a resolution over what it said 'deteriorating law and order situation' in Lahore.

Altaf Hussain in his address reiterated that his sole objective was to stamp out the outdated system from the country and to transform Pakistan into a democratic state in line with the vision of Qauid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal. "In order to accomplish this goal I have been leading a grievous life in exile for the past 22 years," he added.