ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Interior Minister Dr Gohar Ejaz has felicitated the entire nation over the peaceful conduct of the general elections despite several security challenges.

Addressing a news conference along with caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi here in Islamabad on Friday, he said the government made quick decisions to cope with the terrorism threat during the elections.

Dr Gohar Ejaz said protecting precious lives of the people was our foremost priority during polling process therefore we temporarily suspended the mobile phone service.

He said our each and every step and decision was aimed at ensuring the national security and we remained successful in this regard. He said we need to be united at the moment in the best interest of the country.

The Interior Minister said the government and entire nation are also proud of its armed forces, police and law enforcement agencies for ensuring safe and secure environment during the elections. He expressed the hope that the new government would try its level best for the development and prosperity of the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Murtaza Solangi said the government successfully served the purpose of conducting free and fair elections in the country.