KARACHI: The country marked International Day of Democracy on Sunday with a flurry of unprecedented political activity in the capital, with leaders from across the political spectrum scurrying to garner support for, or shore up opposition to, a government-sponsored constitutional amendment.

However, top state functionaries and senior government figures in their messages reiterated their unwavering commitment to the Constitution, democracy and rule of law.

“Our government’s commitment to constitutionalism, democracy, rule of law and human rights is firm and unwavering. Adh­erence to these democratic values is our calling as a nation,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in his message.

The prime minister called for continuing the efforts to build a more inclusive, just, and equal world for all.

“Together, we can strengthen the foundations of democracy and ensure that it serves as a beacon of hope and progress for future generations,” he added.

In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari mentioned the importance of democracy in empowering citizens and promoting their active participation in the political process.

He said democracy stood as the cornerstone of a just society, advocating for the protection of fundamental rights and enabling political, economic and social inclusion.

“We also recognize the role that our Parliament plays in safeguarding democracy by representing the will of the people, formulating public policy, and addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. It is the primary forum for addressing grievances, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering a resilient future for Pakistan,” the president said.

Separately, while speaking about the constitutional amendment set to be tabled in parliament, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that each and every provision of the proposed legislation was being perused carefully.

Besides, legal experts’ opinions were being sought at every provision to ensure that all aspects were taken into consideration thoroughly.

The minister said the government and its allies were already engaged in discussions, while Maulana Fazl was consulting opposition parties on the draft amendment.

Legal experts from all parties are involved in this process as their opinions hold significant weight, he added. Today is a democracy day in Pakistan and this is the beauty of democracy that all parties are part of this consultative process, he remarked.

Published in Dawn, September 16th, 2024

Opinion

Editorial

Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...
Islamabad protest
Updated 20 Nov, 2024

Islamabad protest

As Nov 24 draws nearer, both the PTI and the Islamabad administration must remain wary and keep within the limits of reason and the law.
PIA uncertainty
20 Nov, 2024

PIA uncertainty

THE failed attempt to privatise the national flag carrier late last month has led to a fierce debate around the...
T20 disappointment
20 Nov, 2024

T20 disappointment

AFTER experiencing the historic high of the One-day International series triumph against Australia, Pakistan came...