Soon after being elected through a voice vote, Geelani told newspersons that he would try to live up to the expectations of the people and the conference and work for the cause of freedom. ``I know it is not an easy job to handle, it is an uphill task. However, with the mercy of Allah and the cooperation of the executive members and other constituents of the conglomerate - Bar associations, Traders Federation and the Employees unions - I hope to do my duty satisfactorily. Ultimately, truth triumphs and not might,'' he said.

The veteran Jamat leader also praised Umar Farooq for taking the APHC ever onward and for turning it into a potent force. Geelanialso congratulated Umar for his performance during his tenure as APHC Chairman.

Earlier addressing a press conference here today at the APHC headquarters, Umar Farooq, the outgoing chairman, said, ``It was extremely difficult for me to shoulder the responsibilities when I was elected Chairman in 1993. Thanks to the overwhelming support I received from the people of the state, particularly the executive council of the APHC, I was able to withstand the pulls and the pressures of the situation.''

`` I tried my best to highlight the plight of the people of Kashmir. In this regard, I visited a number of foreign countries, including Morocco and the United States. Besides, I personally briefed ambassadors of various nations about the state of affairs in Jammu and Kashmir,'' the outgoing chairman said.

Congratulating the new incumbent and assuring him of the fullest support of his party, he added that the innumerable sacrifices made by the people would not be compromised at any cost.

Other All Party HurriyatConference leaders present at the conference were Abdaul Gani Bhat, Yaseen Malik, Javid Mir, Molvi Abass Ansari and Dr Hubby.