From Rezaul H Laskar Islamabad, Feb 17 (PTI) Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani today asked the Commonwealth to send observers to monitor the forthcoming general election in Pakistan. Gilani made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Commonwealth Secretary General Kamlesh Sharma this afternoon. He said the Commonwealth offers valuable support to member states for nurturing and strengthening democracy. The premier informed Sharma that the National Assembly or lower house of parliament had recently passed the 20th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which would ensure free, fair and transparent elections. Nobody would be able to question the credibility of the electoral process, he said. General election in Pakistan is due in 2013, amid growing speculation that it could be held this year as the government struggles to cope with multiple political crisis facing the PPP-led coalition. Gilani said a number of legislations have been enacted in Pakistan to empower women. Mechanisms exist to redress the grievances of women, he said. The premier said women and minorities constitute his constituency and the government has successfully legislated to protect women in particular. The National Commission for Status of Women will monitor and report on the compliance with the convention for elimination of discrimination against women, he added. Sharma expressed his gratitude for Pakistan's support for his recent re-election to the post. He said he was looking forward to meet Gilani in London on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth in June.
