Karachi, Nov 19: Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf has declared that general elections could be held on January 8 next year.

“We have sent a recommendation to the Election Commission of Pakistan in this regard,” Musharraf said.

A few elements were trying to create political instability in the country and were talking about boycotting the elections; an official handout issued by the Chief Minister House quoted the president, as saying.

Lauding the performance of the provincial government at the farewell dinner of parliamentarians and advisers of the Sindh Government at the outgoing Chief Minister House Arbab Ghulam Rahim residence, Musharraf said the ceremony was historic on two counts.

Firstly, the assemblies had completed their full term for the first time, and secondly, a send-off had been arranged for the out-going government in a very apt manner, he said.

It was a difficult task to run a coalition government, said Musharraf, adding that all the credit goes to the government members including the Sindh Governor Ishratul Ibad.

He also thanked Pakistan Muslim League-Functional leader Pir Pagaro and Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain.

Musharraf also urged all coalition partners to keep their unity intact to succeed in the upcoming elections.