Nuclear status brings us recognition: Gilani

Gilani declares the era of single party-led governments over.

RAWALAKOT: “We are proud to be a nuclear state,” said Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, adding that the nuclear status has helped the country gain recognition in the world.

“We believe in democracy. We believe in the freedom of media and respect its criticism. We respect the opposition and its mandate but at the same time we expect that our mandate will also be respected,” said Gilani while addressing party workers on Monday.

“I am criticised and my cabinet members are criticised. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) should be praised for its tolerance,” Gilani added.

He expressed confidence that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will sweep the next general elections too, adding that change would only come through the people. “I advice all those who wish to take over the government that they should wait till the next general elections,” he added.

He announced the end of the single-party-led government era, adding the next government would also be formed through a coalition. “Eighty per cent work on the Charter of Democracy has been completed,” claimed Gilani.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 30^th, 2010.