Democracy the panacea for all ills: Gillani

Senate chairman urge political parties set aside difference for the sake of progress

LAHORE:

Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said the continuity of democracy is the sole solution to all national challenges, urging political parties to set aside their differences and unite for the country’s progress.

"Differences of opinion are an essential aspect of democracy. It is imperative that everyone collectively plays their role for the national interest," Gilani stated on Sunday while addressing the concluding session of the Asma Jahangir Conference 2024 as a special guest.

He highlighted the Pakistan Peoples Party's (PPP) numerous sacrifices for democracy's restoration, citing the significant achievement of PPP's founder leader and former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in implementing the 1973 Constitution.

Gilani, who also served as prime minister during the PPP's government from 2008 to 2012, asserted that there were no political prisoners under the party's rule.

He said all political parties, including the PPP, have consistently advocated for the supremacy of the Constitution, democracy, and the rule of law.

Gilani noted the signing of the Charter of Democracy by PPP's slain chairperson Benazir Bhutto and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supreme leader Nawaz Sharif.

He stressed the need for political leaders to align their direction with national interests. Paying tribute to Asma Jahangir, Gilani recalled her prophecy that after the abolishment of 58 2(b) by the PPP, it would be the judiciary, rather than the establishment, dismissing prime ministers.

"And that is how Nawaz Sharif and I were removed from power," he added.

Gilani underscored Asma Jahangir’s invaluable contributions to human rights and democracy, asserting that her vision for human rights must be honored.

He expressed his honor in participating in the conference and extended congratulations to the late human rights activist's daughters and other organizers for the successful event.

"The vision of Asma Jahangir for human rights must not be overlooked. Democracy serves as the guarantor of human rights and remains the ultimate solution to all challenges," he concluded.

(APP WITH INPUT FROM NEWS DESK)