ISLAMABAD, DEC 17, SPA -- Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro has urged the voters for a bigger turnout in the Jan 8 parliamentary elections. It is a national obligation of all the voters to exercise their right of vote so as to make the polls more meaningful for the future of Pakistan, Soomro said in a statement that was released after his departure to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. He said it is expected that all the political leaders and parties would follow the discipline outlined by the Election Commission and discharge their responsibilities in the larger national interest. The prime minister said that during his visit to the holy land he would specifically pray to the Almighty Allah for the welfare, prosperity and better future of Pakistan and its people. While welcoming the lifting of the state of emergency and restoration of the 1973 Constitution Soomro said that it was a significant watershed in Pakistan s political history which would help the nation to embark upon the constitutional and democratic path. In this journey towards a prosperous and enlightened future, he said, the interim government would perform its responsibility with complete neutrality, dedication and sinceritySoomro said that restoration of the 1973 Constitution would further improve the political climate and help build the confidence of all the political parties participating in the national elections. The creation of conducive atmosphere, he added, would facilitate the process for conducting free, fair and transparent elections as well as smooth transition towards the democratic phase. The prime minister said Constitution is something which people own and desire to build a strong state upon. The elections, he said, are a powerful tool to demonstrate legitimacy and representatives, therefore, the political forces should be aware that those who elect them have great expectations thus adding to their responsibility. He said that the upcoming elections would determine the future of the country and the people. It is, therefore, essential that all the political parties and voters participate wholeheartedly. The judicious and responsible exercise of the right of vote by the people would ensure a prosperous future and a better destination for the Nation, he added.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/510121