- On International Day, PM and President reaffirm commitment to democracy, Constitution, terming democracy key to Pakistan’s unity and progress
- Stress unity of people, Parliament, and institutions to protect democracy, asserting democracy guarantees rights, equality and justice
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday reaffirmed that the people, government, and institutions of Pakistan would continue to work together to protect democratic principles and fundamental rights and build a prosperous future for the nation.
In their separate messages on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy, both leaders called for a renewed national commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the spirit of the Constitution of 1973 continues to guide the country.
Premier Shehbaz, in his message, described democracy as the “voice of the people” and stressed that genuine participation of citizens in governance was the true strength of any system. He highlighted the importance of the 1973 Constitution, calling it a “cornerstone in the development of a democratic system of government in Pakistan.” He underlined that democracy was not only a political framework but also a guarantee of equality, fundamental rights, and social justice.
“The International Day of Democracy, celebrated globally on September 15 under the auspices of the United Nations, provides an opportunity to reflect on the diversity and effectiveness of democracy as a system of government,” he noted. The prime minister emphasized that Parliament occupied a central role in Pakistan’s democratic framework, being the institution empowered to legislate in the public and national interest. “Under the Constitution, Parliament passes laws according to collective wisdom, which are then implemented by the government,” he said.
Quoting Article 25 of the Constitution, he reminded that every citizen of Pakistan enjoys equality before the law and that fundamental rights are protected for all. “Besides the rights of citizens, the Constitution lays the foundation for all provinces to play an effective role in the federation, granting equal status and participation in national affairs,” the PM added. He pointed out that the document also ensured participation of women in all walks of life, particularly in Parliament, and guaranteed representation and protection of the rights of minorities.
PM Shehbaz stressed that democratic principles—protection of rights, freedom, equality, rule of law, and unity—were essential for nations to overcome modern challenges. He also recalled that Pakistan has consistently worked at the international level to promote democratic values, aligning its efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focusing on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari described democracy as the foundation of a just and inclusive society. “World Democracy Day serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of democracy in empowering citizens and fostering their active engagement in the political process,” he remarked. He said democracy safeguarded fundamental rights and enabled political, economic, and social participation for all citizens.
Calling democracy “participatory in nature,” Zardari said it presupposed tolerance, political pluralism, respect for dissenting views, and protection of individual rights. “Democracy is not just procedural but substantive, essentially ensuring the protection of economic, social and cultural rights of the people,” he stressed.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s political journey, the president recalled that it had been shaped by sacrifices of visionary leaders such as Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose contributions paved the way for the restoration and strengthening of democratic institutions. “Their legacy reminds us of the ongoing struggle to uphold democratic ideals,” he said.
He emphasized the centrality of Parliament, describing it as the true voice of the people and a vital institution for shaping national policies. He underlined that the Constitution of 1973 was the country’s most significant democratic milestone, enshrining equal rights for citizens, equality before the law, and an autonomous status for federating units.
“To effectively address today’s challenges and build a prosperous future, we must remain steadfast in upholding democratic values—freedom, social justice, equality, tolerance, and the rule of law,” Zardari added. He urged political stakeholders to prioritize strengthening institutions, pursuing reforms, and deepening democratic practices to safeguard the nation’s future.
Both leaders, in their messages, urged Pakistanis to renew their dedication to protecting and promoting democracy, stressing that it was through democratic values and institutions that Pakistan could ensure unity, socio-economic justice, freedom of expression, and stability in the years to come.
