LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has extended greetings to “all guardians of democracy who consider the protection of the Constitution a sacred duty and a form of jihad.”
In her message on International Day of Democracy, she said that the true source of power is the people, and their opinion is the foundation of progress. She warned that opinions rooted in sedition, corruption, or violence are against the spirit of democracy, which is a system where power rests with the people.
The chief minister stressed that no economy can achieve lasting growth without democracy. “A strong democracy opens the doors of education, ensures essential facilities, and helps fulfill the dreams of our youth. It is not just a form of government, but a relationship of trust between the people and the state,” she noted.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz added that democracy acts as a mirror, allowing nations to identify and correct their mistakes. “Difference of opinion is the beauty of democracy, not enmity. This is the lesson we must instill in our future generations,” she said.
She said that Pakistan’s democracy must not only be preserved, but also strengthened and improved to serve as an example for the world. She reaffirmed her commitment to make democracy a lasting asset for future generations, an asset strong enough to withstand the tests of time.
Sherry extends greetings to all democracy supporters on Int’l Day of Democracy
Vice President of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Senator Sherry Rehman, in her message on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy, extended greetings to all democracy supporters around the world.
She said that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a parliamentary democracy for Pakistan, and in line with that vision, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto strengthened democratic foundations by giving the nation the 1973 Constitution. Benazir Bhutto, she added, transformed democracy into the voice of the people by ensuring representation for all segments of society, according to a Press Release issued here on Monday.
Highlighting PPP’s historic role, Sherry Rehman said the sacrifices and efforts of the party in Pakistan’s democratic journey are invaluable. “The PPP has played a pivotal role in upholding democratic principles, rule of law, and the promotion of social justice,” she noted.
She emphasized that democracy is the foundation of Pakistan’s development. “It empowers our citizens by giving every individual a voice and a role in shaping the future,” she said, adding that the country’s political and economic challenges can only be resolved through a strong and uninterrupted democratic system.
Sherry Rehman recalled that President Asif Ali Zardari, under the principle of ‘democracy is the best revenge’, resisted dictatorship and empowered the parliament. Through the 18th Amendment, he ensured devolution of powers and provincial autonomy, she said.
She further stated that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari symbolizes a new generation of leadership, consistently raising his voice for democracy, human rights, and political tolerance. “Under his leadership, the PPP is committed to building a democratic, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan,” she added.
Concluding her message, Sherry Rehman said the PPP’s struggle is for a Pakistan where every citizen enjoys equality, justice, and freedom.
