Talk to May 9 perpitrators: CM

Says if we can hold dialogue with enemy country, why not with Pakistani citizens

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday stated that democracy thrives on dialogue, "if we can engage in dialogue with an enemy country, then we should also engage with those involved in the May 9 incident, as we see them as Pakistani citizens."

It is important to address those who have been misled and help them change their perspectives, he said talking to the media at Mazar-e-Quaid, where he was joined by his cabinet members to pay tribute to Pakistan's founder, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The 148th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was commemorated across Pakistan with patriotic enthusiasm and reverence. In Karachi, the day began with a ceremonial tank salute, followed by special prayers after Namaz-e-Fajr for peace, prosperity, and the nation's progress.

A solemn change of guard ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid, where a smartly dressed contingent from the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul assumed guard duties.

PMA Commandant Maj Gen Iftikhar Hasan Chaudhry laid a floral wreath and recited Fatiha at the mausoleum. Representatives from Pakistan's three Armed Forces also paid tribute by laying wreaths and offering prayers.

Prominent leaders, including Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, and other civil and military officials, visited the mausoleum to honour the Quaid-i-Azam's legacy.

Speaking to the media at Mazar-e-Quaid, CM Shah expressed gratitude for the Quaid-e-Azam's leadership in creating Pakistan. He stressed the need to safeguard the country from foreign conspiracies and to work towards making Pakistan a peaceful and developed nation for future generations.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of Pakistan's martyrs, stating, "Today, we are stable because of the bravery of our martyrs. Leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto played critical roles in strengthening Pakistan's defence and economy." He also extended Christmas greetings to the Christian community, echoing the Quaid-i-Azam's vision of religious freedom and harmony in his historic address on August 11, 1947.

On a lighter note, responding to the Sindh Governor, Murad Ali Shah confidently asserted that Karachi belongs to him. "After requesting Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, I secured federal support for Karachi's water projects, including the Rs25 billion K-IV." He explained that the lining of the KB Feeder, essential for K-IV, is a Rs40 billion project, with equal contributions from both Sindh and the federal government.

Speaking to media on the occasion, Governor Tessori highlighted the nation's resilience despite economic challenges. He expressed optimism about Pakistan's recovery, and referred to the rising stock market and support from countries like Iran and Turkey. He condemned external interference aimed at destabilising the country, saying that Pakistan's armed forces and leadership are steadfast in their efforts to secure economic stability.

Politicians pay respects at Mazar-e-Quaid

Leader of the opposition in the Sindh Assembly, Ali Khursheedi, led an MQM-P delegation to the mausoleum where they extended birthday wishes to the Quaid-i-Azam on behalf of the entire nation. Khursheedi spoke about Jinnah's monumental efforts in realising the vision of Pakistan, which came at the cost of immense sacrifices.

Mayor Murtaza Wahab visited Mazar-e-Quaid to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation. He recited Fateha and reaffirmed his commitment to Jinnah's ideals. "Quaid-i-Azam gave us Pakistan through his untiring efforts and unwavering vision. It is our duty to honour his legacy by working towards fulfilling his dream," he added.