Zardari Urges Nation to Uphold Democracy on World Democracy Day

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday called on the nation to renew its dedication to protecting and promoting democracy, terming it the guiding force for a stronger and more inclusive Pakistan.

In his message marking World Democracy Day, the president said the day was a reminder of democracy’s importance in empowering citizens and fostering their active engagement in the political process.

“Democracy safeguards fundamental rights and promotes political, economic, and social participation for all,” he said, adding that true democracy was not only procedural but also substantive, ensuring the protection of economic, social, and cultural rights of the public at large.

He observed that Pakistan’s political journey had been shaped by sacrifices and resilience, recalling the contributions of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Their vision and sacrifices, he said, laid the groundwork for the restoration and strengthening of democratic institutions.

Highlighting the central role of Parliament, President Zardari described it as the cornerstone of Pakistan’s democratic order, representing the people’s voice and shaping national policies. He termed the Constitution of 1973 the country’s most significant democratic milestone, as it guaranteed equal rights for all citizens under Article 25 and secured the autonomy of federating units.

“To effectively address today’s challenges and build a prosperous future, we must remain steadfast in upholding democratic values embedded in the Constitution — freedom, social justice, equality, tolerance, and the rule of law,” he stressed.

The president reaffirmed the state’s commitment to equality, socio-economic justice, freedom of expression, and democratic reforms. He said strengthening democratic institutions was vital to securing Pakistan’s future.