Bhutto’s doubts over ‘restoration of democracy’
KARACH, SEPT, 22— Pakistan People’s Party Chairman, Mr. Z. A. Bhutto today voiced his feeling that chances of restoration of parliamentary Government in the country were slim if transfer of power to elected representatives was not effected by the end of December, reports AP.
He told a news conference: “If democracy is not restored by the end of the year, then I would say there is a slim chance of democracy ever being restored.”
He made the assertion when asked to comment on the revised timetable which delays by-elections to the National Assembly from East Bengal by two weeks.
Mr. Bhutto insisted that the National Assembly must meet before the end of the year. He said the situation prevalent in East Bengal should not be allowed to delay the elections. “If elections can be held in Vietnam, they can be held in East Pakistan.” He said.
According to the latest programme announced by the Election Commission, the by elections will be held from December 12 to 23.
Referring to what he called reports of a four-power intervention to keep the peace between India and Pakistan over the East Bengal issue. Mr. Bhutto said There can be no lasting peace in the sub-continent without the participation of China.”
Reference: Hindustan Standard 23.9.1971