ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to democracy, equality, justice, freedom and the rule of law.
In his message on the International Day of Democracy, observed on September 15, he said Parliament represented the will and aspirations of the people.
The prime minister said the occasion offered a chance to renew the national resolve to respect the people’s will.
He also stressed the need to protect human dignity and uphold the rule of law.
Parliament Represents People’s Will
PM Shehbaz said democracy gave elected representatives authority to serve the people.
He said Parliament represented the voice and aspirations of citizens.
Meanwhile, the prime minister said the Constitution provided the legal framework for relations between the state and its citizens.
He particularly highlighted Article 25 of the Constitution. It guarantees equal rights for all citizens and equality before the law.
The Constitution also defines the roles of the federating units. In addition, it protects the constitutional status of national institutions.
PM Stresses Parliament’s Role
PM Shehbaz said Pakistan’s federal parliamentary system gave Parliament the responsibility to make laws.
He said lawmakers must act in the public interest and follow Islamic principles.
Furthermore, he stressed that laws should reflect public aspirations and changing needs.
The prime minister said stronger democratic values were vital to tackle present-day challenges.
He added that these values would also help lay the foundation for a prosperous future.
Women, Minorities to Have Representation
The prime minister also highlighted constitutional measures for women’s participation in national life.
He said reserved seats for women were available in federal and provincial legislatures.
These seats, he added, helped ensure effective representation of women in elected institutions.
Similarly, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting religious minorities.
He said reserved seats for non-Muslim minorities ensured their representation in federal and provincial legislatures.
Pakistan Supports Global Democratic Principles
Referring to Pakistan’s international commitments, PM Shehbaz said the country remained aware of its obligations.
He said Pakistan also supported democratic principles at the global level.
Moreover, he said the country was making concerted efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
He particularly highlighted goals linked to democracy, peace, justice and strong institutions.
PM Calls for Stronger Democratic Values
Concluding his message, PM Shehbaz called for a renewed commitment to democratic values.
He urged the country to follow the finest parliamentary traditions and protect citizens’ fundamental rights.
Finally, he called for continued efforts to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pakistan.
